Kivo Daily Staff, Author At Kivo Daily

Stefaniya Makarova’s Advocacy for Petite Models and Positive Mindset

Kivo Daily Staff on April 14, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Stefaniya Makarova, the petite model advocate and actress, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. Her passion for creativity has been evident since childhood, from drawing and sewing to dancing. Stefaniya’s dream of becoming an actress in her hometown of Cheboksary, Russia, seemed almost unattainable, but she pursued her dream by obtaining an accounting education and then moving to America. With her theatrical education, she performed on Broadway but was ultimately drawn to films and TV shows. Stefaniya has acted in various movies and TV shows, including John Wick 3: Parabellum, The Kindergarten Teacher on Netflix, Little America on Apple TV+, and Bronx SIU on Amazon Prime.

Stefaniya has been modeling since childhood and, despite her short stature, actively participates in modeling shows and advertisements. She believes that modeling is more about a person’s charisma than their height. Stefaniya works tirelessly to create a community for petite models and advocates for their interests, presenting herself as a petite model advocate. She has even created a movement called the PETITE Movement, which stands for Personality Empowerment To Intelligence To Enlightenment. Stefaniya believes that when we accept ourselves for who we are, we grow spiritually and reach a state of intelligence and enlightenment. By expanding the boundaries of what is considered beautiful, people who previously thought they were not beautiful can now accept themselves, love, and believe in themselves.

Stefaniya’s life credo is to get inspired and to inspire. She gets inspired by people, and she wants to inspire people. Her inspirational short film, which she led, has won 13 awards at film festivals in America and at international film festivals. She is also a journalist working on a series about positive mindset, uplifting, inspiration, and motivation. She believes that the core of everything is energy, and everything in this world happens because of energy. Stefaniya’s energy and positive mindset have helped her achieve her dreams and become a successful actress, model, and journalist. She hopes that people will get to know her story and also be able to create the best version of themselves and their reality. Stefaniya thinks about creating her unique course on how to reach enlightenment based on her beliefs, knowledge, and experience.

Stefaniya’s journey has not been easy. Her height has been a significant obstacle in her modeling career, and she faced challenges booking certain acting roles because of her accent. However, Stefaniya does not let these obstacles stop her. Instead, she creates her projects and uses her creativity to find solutions. Stefaniya’s persistence and determination have helped her become a pioneer in the fashion industry, creating a community for petite models and advocating for their representation in fashion.

Stefaniya’s qualities and positive thinking have made her a role model for many. Stefaniya’s commitment to promoting a culture of body acceptance and positivity has left a profound impression on our community. Her unwavering belief in the power of embracing diverse forms of beauty has inspired a more inclusive and compassionate society. By challenging conventional norms and standards, Stefaniya has paved the way for a world where everyone is free to love and accept themselves just as they are. Her belief in the power of positive energy and a positive mindset has helped her become the best version of herself and reach enlightenment.

Stefaniya’s success results from trusting her intuition, staying true to herself, remaining open, calming her mind, having a positive mindset, having inner peace and willpower, surrendering, and choosing love instead of ego. Her advice to entrepreneurs starting out is to believe in themselves, follow their hearts, think positively, take the initiative and actions, and be givers and contributors.

The depth of Stefaniya’s devotion to her art and her aptitude for inspiring those around her with her creations have garnered her a robust following on social media. She often imparts motivational dispatches and provides glimpses into her creative journey. Stefaniya’s triumph is proof of the efficacy of self-confidence and diligence. She persists in kindling the spirits of others with her optimistic outlook and steadfast determination to attain her aspirations.

In conclusion, Stefaniya Makarova is an actress, model, journalist, advocate, and humanitarian who significantly impacts the entertainment industry and society. Through cultivating an atmosphere that fosters inclusivity and positive self-acceptance, Stefaniya is aiding in the development of a more benevolent and affectionate civilization, one that welcomes variety and commemorates the exceptional traits that distinguish every individual as extraordinary.

9 Ideal Products for a Hybrid Working Environment

Kivo Daily Staff on April 14, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

It used to be that if you had a steady job, you were expected to commute into the office from 9-5 Monday through Friday. But everything changed when Covid-19 caught everyone by surprise and shut the world down.

Suddenly, employees realized they could get just as much done working from home. However, while remote work is wonderful, it can lack the authentic connections people can establish when they see each other in the office weekly.

Thus, the hybrid work environment was born. But how can you be the most productive when your work environment changes on a regular basis? These nine products can help you develop a solid morning routine, find ways to make any workspace comfortable, and prioritize your health; you can optimize your productivity no matter where your desk is.

Start Your Day Right

A solid morning routine can help keep you on track, whether you’re heading into the office for meetings or working from home. A healthy breakfast and a strong cup of coffee can help you settle in and tackle your to-do list.

1. Enjoy a Café Quality Cappuccino from Home With a Mueller Espresso Machine

There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh espresso in the morning. Pump yourself up for a day working out of your home office with a frothy cappuccino or rich Americano. Investing in a quality espresso machine allows you to craft all your favorite barista creations from the comfort of your kitchen.

Mueller’s espresso machine’s sleek and stylish design fits easily on your kitchen counter. It comes complete with a grinder, integrated milk frother, and cleaning accessories—literally everything you need to turn your kitchen into your favorite café.

Level up your lattes with signature syrups to create caramel macchiatos, mochas, and more. Working from home will be much more fun when you treat yourself to your favorite coffee to start your day.

2. Make a Hearty Breakfast On-the-Go With Orgain Protein Powder

A hearty breakfast is essential, whether you’re working from home or in the office. Fuel your day by using Orgain protein powder in your breakfast recipes. Choose from delicious flavors like chai latte, cookies and cream, or chocolate peanut butter.

Orgain has protein powder varieties that fit every dietary preference: grass-fed, plant-based, or keto. All include 10-30 grams of protein to help keep you full until your lunch break. Use your protein powder to make a quick smoothie before you run out the door.

On days you work from home, get creative with your protein powder. Try their recipes for Strawberries and Cream protein muffins or Horchata protein bites. Then when you head into the office, you can pack the leftovers for a protein-packed afternoon pick-me-up.

3. Check-In With Your Team Via Slack

When your work environment changes daily, you must use networking tools to keep your team on the same page. Slack allows for easy communication between team members and enables you to collaborate with clients.

Slack builds a space where employees can casually chat, create to-do lists, and keep each other accountable. On Slack, team members can create channels to effectively stay in sync on project goals no matter where they work from. Think of it like a virtual water cooler.

Wherever you start your day, taking a few minutes to check in with your team on Slack will set you up for success.

Create a Comfortable Workspace at Home

If you are spending multiple days a week working from your home office, take the time to create the ideal work environment. Create a dedicated workspace where you can sit for hours at a time so that you can celebrate your days at home and find ways to stay comfortable while you check off every item on your to-do list.

4. Stay Cool With a Window Air Conditioner From hOmeLabs

Temperature control is essential in creating a comfortable work environment. How are you supposed to stay focused if it’s hot and humid in your workspace? Install an energy-efficient window air conditioner from hOmeLabs to keep your home office fresh and cool.

hOmeLab’s window AC unit is wifi enabled, so you can conveniently control the temperature of your office from your phone. You have to head into the office for a morning meeting but plan to spend the afternoon working from home. You can easily set your air conditioner to cool your workspace on your commute back from the office.

Plus, hOmeLab’s air conditioner has a 56-decibel or lower noise level. You can focus on work and avoid the distraction of an outdated droning air conditioner.

5. Keep It Cozy in a Pair of Stretchy Joggers From Athleta

Hybrid and remote work has changed what most of us wear on a typical workday. You may have to pop into Zoom meetings, but chances are no one will see your pants. Don’t spend all day wearing an uncomfortable, tight waistband. Instead, create a cozy work-from-home look with joggers from Athleta.

Working from home doesn’t have to be all work. You can squeeze in a quick workout on your lunch break when you aren’t at the office since Athleta joggers are stretchy enough for your lunch break yoga flow. Stretch your muscles and connect your body and your mind. Return to your desk refreshed and ready to tackle the next item on your to-do list.

Being uncomfortable in stuffy work clothes is so 2019. If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that you can get as much done in athleisure wear as you can in a suit—if not more. If your office has no strict dress code, you could even style these pants with a tailored shirt and loafers for a more business-casual look.

Streamline Your In-Office Schedule

Work with your team to decide which days make the most sense to spend in the office together. Only some people need to be in the office on the same days. Prioritize specific days for certain functions to get the most out of your office space.

6. Take Advantage of Eden Hot Desk Booking

Desk hoteling can be a fantastic way to optimize your office space. Eden’s intuitive desk booking software allows employees to reserve their desks when they need to be in the office. Save money by leasing a smaller office space by letting employees share desks rather than having multiple unoccupied daily.

Eden allows you to create office neighborhoods to encourage team building and productivity. Use the neighborhoods to designate which parts of the office-specific teams will work in. Set up one area for your IT team and another for marketing initiatives.

Curate a deeper sense of community in your workspace by allowing work acquaintances to choose desks near each other and establish strong personal connections. Employees can book the best desk for their needs using desk amenity filters. Plus, Eden is simple for employees and easily integrated with existing co-working apps like Slack or Teams.

Using desk metrics, keep track of which desks and co-working spaces are most popular. See what software and programs employees love and which ones they don’t seem to need. Eden’s software makes it easier than ever to make smart choices about setting up and using your space by presenting the analytics clearly and directly.

Prioritize a Healthy Lifestyle

No matter where you work, you must prioritize a healthy lifestyle to maximize productivity. That means feeding your body and mind to put your best foot forward whenever and wherever you clock in.

7. Boost Mental Capacity With a Fatty Acid Supplement From Fatty15

You need to maximize brain power to perform at your best. Even if you’re spending the day in your home office, you won’t be able to conquer your to-do list if you have to battle through fatigue.

Popular fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids that provide DHA, which is vital to maintaining healthy brain function. In older adults, low levels of DHA can show signs of memory loss and accelerated brain aging.

In addition to sustaining healthy brain function, fatty acids improve metabolic rate, support heart and liver health, and boost immunity. Unfortunately, our bodies don’t naturally produce these essential fatty acids. If you want omega-3s, you have to introduce them into your diet.

If you don’t want to pile your plate full of salmon every evening for dinner, a fish oil supplement comes in a tiny capsule and can be a fantastic replacement. But what if you’re allergic to seafood or shellfish? Also, fish oil tends to have an intense smell that many people find off-putting.

Fatty15 is a vegan-friendly substitute for fish oil capsules. Rather than filling their capsules with fish oil, they use an odorless powder made from C15. C15 is an odd-chain saturated fat that provides the same benefits of fish oil without the fishy flavor, according to Fatty15.

Whether at home or in the office, you want your brain to be working its best. Try adding Fatty15 to your daily routine. Say goodbye to brain fog and hello to better energy and productivity.

8. Heal Your Hormones With a Personalized Diet Plan From Allara Health

When you aren’t feeling your best, sitting down at your desk can be impossible, even if you’re working from the comfort of home. A hormonal imbalance could be to blame if you constantly feel run down. 1 in 3 women suffer from a chronic hormonal condition. Many are so used to their symptoms they don’t even realize something is wrong.

Allara Health has curated a community of OB-GYNs, nurse practitioners, and registered dieticians who specialize in women’s health and are dedicated to creating a personalized plan to get your hormonal health back on track. Even if you don’t yet have a diagnosis, board-certified experts will order the proper tests to find the root cause of your symptoms.

Unlike a traditional doctor, Allara’s personalized plans involve more than medication. They treat you as an entire person. They’ll help you adjust your lifestyle to balance your hormones rather than write a prescription. You’ll create a personalized meal plan with a registered PCOS dietician. Your care team will also suggest healthy habits like exercise and stress management to treat your body, spirit, and mind.

Allara Health takes most insurance plans, including AETNA, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, and more. If your employer doesn’t provide benefits, they have cost-effective cash plans. Working with a specialized hormone health team won’t break the bank. Balancing your hormones will have you feeling like your best self in no time, and work will feel like a breeze.

9. Subscribe to My Fit Foods for Perfectly Portioned Meals Every Day of the Week

Finding time to cook a healthy meal can be challenging on busy days. If you were in the office, you might not have the energy to labor over a hot stove to prepare dinner by the time you drive home. Even on days you work from home, cooking after a day full of Zoom meetings can feel like a chore. You must give your body the fuel it needs to perform well at work.

But picking up lunch with coworkers and ordering delivery for dinner isn’t the healthiest option. Plus, constantly eating out adds up fast. If you don’t enjoy cooking, meal prep can be tedious. Don’t waste your valuable time on Sunday prepping food for your entire week. Instead, subscribe to a fitness meal delivery service like My Fit Foods.

My Fit Foods allows you to build your box based on your health and fitness goals. They’ll send you weekly chef-prepared meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy delicious meals like Chicken Tikka Masala, Breakfast Tacos, or Lean Lemon Turkey.

Having healthy meals readily available allows you to free your mind from other things. You don’t have to worry about what’s for dinner or where you’ll go to grab lunch. Focus on the work that needs to be done and let My Fit Foods provide the brain fuel.

Make the Most of Every Day

Working hybrid doesn’t have to be stressful. When you develop a morning routine, establish a comfortable workspace, and take care of yourself, you can put your best foot forward wherever you clock in.

A Conversation with Lead With Your Brand™ Founder Jayzen Patria On Unlocking The Power of Personal Branding in the Workplace

Kivo Daily Staff on April 14, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

As a kid growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by large Hollywood premieres and hugely branded events like the 1984 Olympics and Rose Parade, Jayzen Patria became enamored with what he calls “uniquely branded experiences.” He asked himself how he could create similar experiences for those around him.

When he joined the workforce, Patria had the opportunity to work for his dream company. But on his very first day of orientation, he was asked to remove a red AIDS ribbon he had been wearing on the lapel of his suit after he had worked a charity event. The HR professional told him, “We don’t stand for that here. And I need you to go back into the parking lot and lock that in your car.” This experience became a serious inflection point for him, and from that day on he wanted to ensure that everyone felt a sense of belonging in the workplace.

This, combined with his authentic passion for creating uniquely branded experiences, inspired Patria to create his Lead With Your Brand™ system to help people get in touch with their own personal brands.

Now a sought-after personal branding expert and diversity advocate, Patria has worked with some of the world’s top entertainment, media, and tech companies for the past 30 years. His Lead With Your Brand™ system is all about taking a brand marketer’s toolkit and using it to super-serve your audience while helping your employees advance in their careers.

The noted keynote speaker, thought leader, and facilitator believes that the success of implementing a Lead With Your Brand™ system within an organization can be measured by whether employees are excited and motivated about owning their careers. It is about ensuring that employees are in the driver’s seat of their careers.

“The aim is to inspire employees to own their careers,” he says. “No one cares more about their careers than they do.”

On top of that, Patria is even more passionate about helping employees and workers from marginalized communities lead their brands to their next career breakthroughs. “The reality is we still live in a world that’s filled with bias. Coming from a multicultural family, with a mother who is white and a father of Asian Pacific Islander and Hispanic descent, he had the privilege of being fair-skinned, but saw the different kind of treatment his siblings were given, being of darker skin.

“If I don’t develop a unique brand and lead with that every single day, as an employee from a marginalized community, it is easy to just be classified or become known as the ‘gay man that works in HR,’ or ‘the Latinx person that works in accounting.’ So I’m passionate about helping people identify themselves in ways that show their unique value, their points of view, and how they can add value to their organization, so that they are known as the go-to person for their expertise, and not known as the identity that others might see while sitting in an office.

According to Patria, who also produces and hosts the weekly Lead With Your Brand podcast, which is now in its fourth season, the common challenges in driving diversity, equity, and inclusion are thinking that it is somebody else’s problem to solve. Rather, inclusion must happen in your own daily interactions and decision-making. To address this, he provides leadership with the right mindset, which includes awareness building, training, and foundational elements.

“If leaders are only rewarded for financial results, they may not necessarily do the most inclusive things. Therefore, it is about balancing the rewards, goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs) with which people are measured.”

While Jayzen has faced resistance at times in advocating for DEI programs in organizations, the pushback typically comes from those who do not want to rock the boat. He addresses this by getting them to think about changing people’s hearts and minds.

“Sharing personal experiences in the workplace and in life enables others to become in touch with their own experiences, or hear the experiences of their colleagues, and see the value and impact of either implementing a program or the impacts and challenges of keeping the status quo.”

And his podcast is all about sharing these kinds of authentic experiences.

“The Lead With Your Brand™ Podcast is for people who are really looking to turn up the volume, show their value and lead with their brand toward their next career breakthrough. In each conversation, we have a chance to really help understand how an executive or leader who has been there has overcome obstacles in their own career to find breakthroughs and how they define their own unique and authentic leadership brand.”

For more information on Patria and Lead With Your Brand, visit www.jayzenpatria.com.

A Discussion with Geoffrey Allen Wall About His Successful Career in the Real Estate Development Industry

Kivo Daily Staff on April 13, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Geoffrey Allen Wall is a semi-retired real estate developer currently consulting on the development of several self-sustaining tropical resorts and islands, specifically overwater bungalows located in the Caribbean. Widely viewed as an expert in the field by his peers, Geoffrey possesses an innate and lifelong passion for developing raw land into new and exciting enterprises.

Early in his career, he became keenly interested in cutting-edge sustainable technologies and green initiatives as they pertain to real estate development. An early adopter, Geoffrey Allen Wall has studied such promising trends as solar, tidal, wind and geothermal energy generation, ultimately incorporating them into most of his development planning. In fact, one of the overarching themes of the projects Geoffrey designs is leaving as small a carbon footprint as possible while still providing a great and memorable experience to clients, buyers, and visitors alike.

Geoffrey was raised in Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada and began his formal training by attending Langara College for Business Management. While he was still a student, he purchased his first property, redesigned it, and flipped it for a profit. The success of the project and resulting sale made a powerful impact on the young Geoffrey Allen Wall, and his resolve to pursue a career in real estate development was strengthened. After finishing school, he opened a business dedicated to designing and renovating houses, developing land, and purchasing land assets then parceling them for sale. The business thrived for many years before he made the choice to partially retire.

These days, Geoffrey spends his time participating in outdoor activities. He enjoys hiking and coaching youth sports, specifically soccer, baseball, and rugby. Despite his partial retirement, Geoffrey Allen Wall remains actively involved in the real estate industry and continues to consult on development projects. He is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community through sustainable development and committed to creating a better future for generations to come.

Why did you decide to create your own business?

Put simply, I knew I could succeed as a real estate developer, and I knew I could perform best as the master of my own actions. It just made sense to create my own business.

What do you love most about the industry you are in?

There’s a great sense of satisfaction I get when I see a property or a block of properties that I’ve had a large hand in developing. There’s a community of condos on the west side of Vancouver that I’m particularly proud of, and every time I drive by it with my kids in the car, I turn to them and say, “I was a part of building that neighborhood.” That feeling never gets old.

What would you tell others looking to get into your industry?

In real estate development, it’s important to make sure things don’t fall behind schedule. Needless to say, suitable time management is crucial. That’s why I usually start work around 5 am, so that I can finish by 3:30 pm and go home to spend time with my family. I would advise anyone thinking of entering this industry to do a variation of the same.

What keeps you motivated?

Making sure my business is healthy and my family is provided for gives me all the motivation I need.

If you could change one thing you did in the beginning of your career, what would it be?

Early in my career, there was a time when I didn’t do enough research and due diligence on a project, and it came back to haunt me. That project is still my biggest professional regret. I overcame this issue by learning from my mistake and making sure that I always properly prepare and perform due diligence before accepting any opportunity.

How do you maintain a work life balance?

Exercise. I exercise every day. It helps me to clear my head and disconnect from life’s stresses for a bit. I also try to get everyone I work with to do some sort of physical activity outside on a regular basis. I’m not talking about climbing a mountain—after all, everyone has their own limitations. But whether it’s walking, running, or riding a bike, I think everyone can benefit from consistent exercise. It gets the endorphins pumping, and it’s sure better than working nonstop.

What trends in your industry excite you?

Over the last few decades, there’s been a growing movement of states, companies, organizations, and individuals trying to lower their energy consumption. That trend, as well as people endeavoring to become more eco-friendly generally is very exciting to me. Whether it takes the form of more efficiently manufactured products, recycled products, reusable products, or just being cognizant of minimizing the amount of materials you use, it’s all helpful in the effort to minimize the damage caused to the planet by human activities. I’m also a big fan of projects that feature a large amount of green space. I think it’s a much better approach to preserve existing greenery and work around it rather than mow down every single tree to put up a big box, and once that’s finished, plant a couple of token trees.

What is one piece of advice that you have never forgotten?

Some advice my dad gave me, which did not sink in early enough, was to cultivate an excellent work ethic. My parents tried to instill in me that having a great work ethic is the best way to a successful career. Unfortunately, it was not until my dad had passed that the truth of that advice really hit home. However, I’m happy to say that I’m now very conscientious in this regard and hold myself to an extremely high standard. My dad was right, of course; it has paid great dividends in my career.

An Interview with Thomas Brinkly About His Experiences as the Founder, Owner, and Operator of Top Tier Marketing Academy

Kivo Daily Staff on April 13, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Thomas Brinkly was born in Bellevue, Washington. After 9th grade, he left public school in favor of trade school and studied carpentry. Among his proudest achievements are graduating from trade school, enlisting in the US Marine Corps, and being clean and sober for over a decade. These days, Thomas Brinkly is the owner and operator of my, as well as its original founder. He currently lives in Monroe, Washington with his wife and children. When not working, Thomas enjoys meditating, traveling, and spending quiet nights at home time with his family.

Why did you decide to create your own business?

After much trial and error at the beginning of my career, I ultimately found that helping people was not only what I was good at, but also what I most enjoyed doing. Eventually, that led to me creating my own company. Now, I spend my workdays making sure my customers are satisfied and my employees are accomplishing their career goals, and I couldn’t be happier.

What do you love most about the industry you are in?

I love thinking up new ideas and I love talking to people, and those two things cross over all the time during the normal course of business at Top Tier Marketing Academy. Honestly, sometimes it’s tough to come up with new ideas after doing what I’ve done for so long, so I make sure to keep the lines of communication open with my partners, managers, and other staff. We spend a good deal of time discussing concepts, thinking out loud, and brainstorming until a good idea comes up.

What would you tell others looking to get into your industry?

You have to be willing to take calculated risks in order to find genuine success. You have to try. And you have to put in a lot of hard work, too.

What keeps you motivated?

Furthering the success of Top Tier Marketing Academy and delivering a quality product to its customers provides me with more than ample motivation.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned managing your business?

The importance of transparency has been one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through managing my business. Even though I own the company and have a lot of employees, I always make sure that everybody knows what’s going on. First, a standard policy of total transparency really aids in creating a smooth workflow, and second it makes everyone involved feel valued.

Who has been a role model to you and why?

I have a couple different men in my life that I look up to. When I find myself in a bad spot or feeling overwhelmed, I give one of them a call to talk about my situation. They always take the time to listen to me and offer advice on how I might come up with a solution.

How do you maintain a work life balance?

I make sure that I spend at least an hour a day alone. I’d recommend anybody to do that in order to work on their mind and their spirituality. Along those lines, I also practice meditation.

What traits do you possess that make you a successful leader?

I believe the people that know me well would cite my capacity for caring and compassion as a couple of my best leadership traits.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

Professionally, the success of my company is my biggest accomplishment. Personally, raising a happy, healthy, and loving family has brought me the most joy and fulfillment.

What trends in your industry excite you?

I love the artificial intelligence trend. I don’t know much about it right now, but it excites me to see how far and how fast we as a society are developing that technology.

What has been the hardest obstacle you’ve overcome?

I didn’t get past 9th grade. I regret that. But from that point on, I decided to work twice as hard as everybody else to get what I want.

What is one piece of advice that you have never forgotten?

When I was younger, I tended to give up on myself too soon because I didn’t think I could do certain things. Then, someone told me that my mind is stronger than I realize it is, and that insight had a really positive impact on me. I’ve always remembered that piece of advice, and it’s served me well over the years.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to others?

I think it would be some variation of my previous answer. “Your mind is stronger than you think it is,” or some other words to that effect.

What is the biggest life lesson you have learned?

I believe that there’s more value in relationships than money.

Outside of work, what defines you as a person?

As I mentioned before, I practice meditation. Being able to take a certain amount of time each day to clear my mind, center myself, and find some semblance of peace really helps me focus on all the other aspects of my life. It also puts everything into perspective. Because of all these reasons, I think meditation is a big part of who I am.

Explain the proudest day of your professional life.

The day I officially founded Top Tier Marketing Academy was the proudest day of my professional life without question.

Behind the Scenes: A Look at the Unsung Heroes of Commercial Cleaning

Kivo Daily Staff on April 13, 2023

As we go through our daily lives, it’s easy to take for granted the clean and well-maintained spaces we work in or visit. But have you ever stopped to think about who’s responsible for keeping those spaces spotless? It’s the commercial cleaners who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition. These cleaners are the unsung heroes of the commercial cleaning industry, and they play an essential role in keeping our workplaces, public spaces, and homes clean and safe.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the daily lives of these unsung heroes, and the important work they undertake to keep our environments clean and hygienic. We’ll explore the demands and challenges of their work and the skills and expertise needed to succeed in this profession.

Click here to hire the best commercial cleaning service.

1. The Importance of Commercial Cleaning

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to create a significant impact on the world, the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment has never been more critical. However, achieving and maintaining this level of cleanliness requires more than just a daily sweep and mop. Commercial cleaning services play a vital role in keeping businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and other public spaces clean and safe. Ensuring thorough and consistent cleaning of high-traffic areas, such as restrooms and lobbies, helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and creates a healthier environment for employees and customers alike.

2. The Roles of Custodians and Janitors

Commercial cleaning is a demanding and often thankless role. While businesses rely heavily on the upkeep and maintenance of their facilities, the work done behind the scenes is often overlooked. Custodians and janitors play a critical role in the upkeep and sanitation of commercial spaces, and are essential in creating a clean and safe environment for employees, visitors and customers. Custodians are responsible for the overall cleaning and maintenance of a facility, while janitors focus more specifically on tasks such as carpet cleaning, floor waxing, and window washing.

3. The Training Required for Commercial Cleaners

Commercial cleaners play a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of various businesses, from offices and schools to hospitals and factories. To become a professional commercial cleaner, individuals must complete extensive training programs to master a variety of cleaning techniques, sanitation processes, and equipment handling. These training programs cover everything from proper chemical usage to safe lifting and handling techniques to ensure the safety of not only the cleaners themselves but also the people who work and visit the facilities they clean.

4. The Tools and Equipment Used for Cleaning

A thorough and effective cleaning requires the use of specialized equipment designed for various cleaning tasks. These tools and equipment include vacuums for carpet and upholstery, scrubbers for hard flooring, high-pressure washers for exterior surfaces, and specialized chemicals and sanitizers for disinfecting and cleaning. Each tool and piece of equipment serves a specific purpose, but they all play a vital role in achieving the end goal of a spotless and hygienic environment. Regular maintenance of these tools and equipment is necessary to ensure their longevity and continued effectiveness in the cleaning process.

5. The Impact of Unsung Heroes on Public Health and Safety

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc globally, we have all come to appreciate the critical role played by unsung heroes in maintaining a clean and safe environment. These heroes are the essential workers in the commercial cleaning industry who operate behind the scenes, often unnoticed, but who are essential to the maintenance of hygienic environments in various settings. Their work plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of infectious diseases and promoting the health and safety of individuals in the public domain.

In conclusion, commercial cleaning is an essential service that often goes unnoticed, but the people behind the scenes play a critical role in maintaining a healthy and safe environment for businesses, employees, and customers alike. Without the unsung heroes of commercial cleaning, many organizations would struggle to maintain productivity, reputation, and overall success. Therefore, it’s crucial to acknowledge and appreciate their hard work, dedication, and commitment to their craft. So, the next time you walk into a spotless office or building, take a moment to think about the unsung heroes who made it possible.

Triumph Through Tragedy: Taylor “TJ” Nelson’s Story of Perseverance and Success

Kivo Daily Staff on April 11, 2023

Taylor “TJ” Nelson’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Born and raised in Salt Lake City, TJ has lived all over the world, chasing his dreams and carving his path toward success. Today, he is the owner and CEO of Direct Solar, a multimillion-dollar business, and an Amazon best-selling author of Walk the Lyme, a book about his journey of overcoming Lyme disease while building his business.

TJ’s path to success was anything but smooth sailing. Along the way, he encountered countless obstacles, including the devastating loss of his brother and two closest confidants, as well as a grueling struggle with Lyme disease that set him back a staggering $160,000 in medical bills last year alone. Yet, despite these daunting setbacks, TJ persevered with unyielding resolve and never gave up.

From a young age, his natural talent for sales shone brightly. In his first month peddling automobiles, he matched the sales record of the top-performing representative, setting the stage for his subsequent triumphs. He sold it all and ventured to Asia in pursuit of online entrepreneurship, only to become the unrivaled door-to-door seller for SolarCity, the preeminent provider of residential solar systems at that time.

Amidst the challenging journey of establishing Direct Solar, TJ delved into the depths of his mind and soul to manage the excruciating physical pain and mental distress inflicted by Lyme disease. He cared for his holistic well-being with a repertoire of mental strategies, Somatic Experiencing, intravenous therapies, collaborative brainstorming sessions, and meditative practices. Despite the impossible odds, TJ catapulted his enterprise into a multimillion-dollar empire while relentlessly combatting the crippling illness.

TJ’s story is one of inspiration and hope. He wants to empower others struggling in life, especially those in sales or dealing with health problems or mental illness, to rise above their challenges and realize their potential. He encourages people to keep going, never give up, and believe they can achieve their dreams.

TJ has big plans for his future. He sees himself as a source of inspiration for those facing adversity and wants to motivate them to push through their struggles. In addition to making a positive impact on others, he dreams of starting a family and leaving a lasting legacy. His solar enterprise will be highly valuable, powered by efficient systems and exceptional leadership. Through his book and speaking engagements, he hopes to reach a wider audience and touch as many lives as possible.

TJ’s tale embodies the triumph of persistence, dedication, and optimism. His path from hardship to achievement serves as a beacon of motivation for anyone confronted with adversity. Furthermore, his insights and background provide insightful teachings for others to glean from, and his narrative offers a glimmer of hope to those enduring difficulties.

To learn more about Taylor “TJ” Nelson, follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

How Roy Y. Gagaza Helps Retirees Protect Their Assets with WealthWize

Kivo Daily Staff on April 10, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

After retiring from the military after 24.5 years, Roy Gagaza knew he wanted to continue serving his community, even if his active military service was completed. With his military career focused on protecting his men as an officer, he knew he wanted to continue that focus in the financial realm. He began creating a series of educational seminars and later added webinars focused on helping other individuals approaching retirement or already in retirement to protect their assets and principal. This became the basis for WealthWize; his education platform focused on helping people help themselves to protect their retirement assets and better understand the financial world.

How Roy Y. Gagaza Helps Retirees Protect Their Assets with WealthWize

After graduating with a business marketing major from San Jose State University, Roy Gagaza knew that after his military career, he would need a plan for his post-service civilian life. With a heart and mind dedicated to service, protection, and community, he provided education seminars and after 22 years as a Financial Professional began developing the foundation for WealthWize, Roy Y Gagaza’s series of educational seminars that he eventually took to YouTube webinars, a smart move given the restrictions that the COVID-19 pandemic put into place. His background in business put him in a key position to enter finance or other business specialties, but at the same time, he knew that his drive to help others meant that he wanted a more personal connection with his clients.

WealthWize was focused on helping individuals plan their finances more carefully around their retirement to allow for regular highs and lows in the economy. “The biggest mistakes occur five years before and after retirement. People get in their “red zone,” believing they’ve made it. And they begin to say: “Let’s go on that cruise. Or let’s go on 12 of them.” But there needs to be a fine balance, and there needs to be a plan in place before doing that,” Roy Gagaza stated in an interview with Think Advisor. “The key is to develop spending plans instead of retirement plans. Most people have too high of a projection when taking out 10 percent of their assets annually. That’s too high.”

Rather than focusing on investment strategies, Roy Y. Gagaza helps clients move from aggressive growth to preservation, all while providing sound advice to help conserve assets and principal while reducing risk. He focuses on protecting his clients from issues that could impact their retirement plans, delivering a clear vision of their future if they’re not careful with their retirement savings and assets. By providing this level of protection and forethought, he’s built a strong client base on trust and referrals, where clients introduce him to families who need help with their finances. “I’d rather build a business of referrals than have a few big clients,” he believes.

A Discussion with Dean Scott, Community Pastor of New Kingdom of Faith and Restoration Church, About the Lessons He’s Learned from His Ministry

Kivo Daily Staff on April 7, 2023

Since 2009, Dean Scott has been a community pastor at New Kingdom of Faith and Restoration Church in Kansas City, Missouri. New Kingdom of Faith and Restoration Church prides itself on filling a charitable role in its community, often providing food and other assistance to at-risk families.

Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Dean Scott was born in 1968. After graduating from high school as the valedictorian of his class, he joined the US Army, eventually becoming an officer in the military police. After 20 years of service, including deployment in overseas combat zones, Dean returned to the United States to further pursue his education. He earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Murray State, and has worked in the field of traffic safety since 2008, practicing his ministry simultaneously.

Why did you decide to go into ministry?

When I retired from the Army, my wife and I got heavily involved in the church. One day, we attended a service in Kansas City, and the Lord called on us to go into ministry together. Candace found a building and asked me to come look at it, then she said that was going to be our new home. Six months later, we rented that building out and that’s when we started our church on North Oak Traffic Way. We started with a small ministry, just my wife and I and our kids on Sundays, then we started growing. We had to move to a new location after we outgrew the original building—and that was over ten years ago!

What trends in your industry excite you?

A trend I’m seeing right now is reaching more people through social media. That’s exciting because you can have a church service with 300 people watching you, which wasn’t possible even in 2007. You can have a Bible study with 300 people through different social media applications, from Facebook to YouTube and all the other platforms. Another thing I’m seeing these days is small groups of worshippers. You don’t have to have mass gatherings of folks to spread the gospel and get information out about food donations or meetings. You can just make a flier and send it out on social media.

What would you tell others looking to get into your industry?

First, I would tell them to get some education. Go to school and learn Biblical principles. Second, I would tell them if you’re not a person who is willing to be patient, listen to folks and understand them, that’s okay because there’s more than one way to run a church. You do have to be open to new ideas and innovation, be flexible and open to communication, and just allow God to move in your life. The key learning point for me—and the advice I would give to new pastors and ministers—is to ask yourself if you’re able to avail yourself to people as well as preach to them. Can you meet people where they are and sympathize with them? These are necessary skills if you want to evangelize people into becoming a vital part of your church.

What is one thing you would change in your industry today if you could?

Oftentimes in ministry there’s some angst because we conduct services for two hours on Sunday, then we have Bible study and leadership training and all these other things throughout the rest of the week. I wish there was a way to simplify the process and maybe find a way to do everything in one place.

Who has been a role model to you and why?

For me, it’s Bishop Lester Jones. He’s our leader from the Maranatha Church, and he has such a heart and spirit for men. I didn’t have a father growing up, so he took me aside and told me he was going to help me grow and teach me a new way of thinking and living. It’s not typical to meet a man who will do that for someone who’s not his son. But he welcomed me as his son and showed me what to do while still holding me accountable. I think that everybody should be accountable to somebody, whether it’s a mentor, a role model, or just a friend who can tell you when you’re wrong or when you should be looking at something from a different point of view. When he took me under his wing, I was pretty much by myself. But he watched over me as I began my ministry. It’s very important to have oversight like that when starting a ministry because it keeps you honest and helps you grow.

How do you maintain a work life balance?

Candace and I are a team, so we like to take breaks together. Sometimes, we’ll go to Florida for a week. During that time, we leave the running of the church to other leaders. That way, we’re able to get away from the job. Also, on Wednesday nights after Bible study, I try to keep some open time where we can relax and watch TV. We don’t take calls from parishioners on Sundays after church, and my wife doesn’t take calls on Mondays. Setting boundaries is important. Candace and I want to make sure we have time for our kids and grandkids.

Explain the proudest day of your professional life.

In North Kansas City, we were able to feed over 400 people during one of our food pantry giveaways in 2021. We gave out every pound of food that we had. We met a critical need in the community, and at the end, there were people who wanted to pray with us and get information about the church. This was during the transitional period of the pandemic, when many people were very much in need of food. Providing that was an awesome experience.

A Discussion with Chadwick Robertson About the State of the Real Estate Industry in 2023

Kivo Daily Staff on April 7, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Chadwick Robertson is a real estate investor based in Langley, British Columbia with over 15 years experience in the industry. He is widely regarded by his peers as having a keen eye for identifying potentially lucrative investment opportunities, and has established a proven track record of success in acquiring, developing, and managing properties.

Chadwick began his career in real estate as a sales agent where he gained a deep understanding of the local and foreign markets. After several years in sales, he transitioned to an investment role and quickly made a name for himself as a skilled negotiator and strategic thinker.

In recent years, Chadwick has focused on acquiring and redeveloping commercial properties in Langley and the surrounding area. His projects have ranged from small retail spaces to large multi-use complexes, and he has developed a reputation for delivering high-quality, well-designed properties that meet the needs of tenants and investors alike.

Chadwick Robertson is also deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has worked to promote affordable housing and sustainable development in Langley and beyond, and been involved in numerous charitable organizations. When not working, Chadwick enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time with his family. He prides himself on being a lifelong learner, and as such, is constantly seeking out new opportunities to expand his knowledge of real estate investing and other related fields.

Why did you decide to create your own business?

Even at the outset of my career in the real estate industry, I knew I ultimately wanted to found my own agency. There were many reasons why, but it boiled down to two central points. First, I wanted to reap the majority of the rewards from my own hard work, and second, I wanted to be my own boss.

What do you love most about the industry you are in?

I love the challenge. I love scouting out new potential acquisitions, I love negotiating purchase and sale prices for properties, and I love every step of the development process. It all excites me.

What would you tell others looking to get into your industry?

I would tell anyone considering a career as a real estate investor that it’s highly competitive—especially in British Columbia—but, if approached correctly, it’s also highly lucrative. So, on balance, it’s a lot of hard work, but that hard work can pay off in a big way.

What keeps you motivated?

Beyond the obvious financial rewards, I derive a lot of satisfaction from a job well done, as well as the augmentation of my reputation within my industry.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned managing your business?

Trust, but verify. This business is built on relationships, and within those relationships, the establishment of an underlying trust. However, that being said, sometimes that trust can be abused, which is why verification becomes so important. Luckily, the people who abuse trust don’t tend to thrive in real estate. Obviously, once such behavior comes to light, other industry professionals are understandably hesitant about working with them on another development project.

How has your company grown from its early days to now?

The firm has expanded significantly since its creation, I’m proud to say. In the beginning it was just me—a one-man operation. At this point, though, I’ve added a few associates. Working together, we’ve increased our portfolio of holdings beyond even my expectations.

If you could change one thing you did in the beginning of your career what would it be?

If I could turn back time and relive the start of my career, I would apply the “trust but verify” philosophy much more rigorously. It would save me a few headaches, to say the least.

How do you maintain a work life balance?

When I’m able to take some time away from work, I like to immerse myself in nature. In spring, summer, and autumn, I take long hikes. In the winter, I indulge my hobby of skiing. I also enjoy spending time with my family whenever possible. Doing these things reminds me why I work so hard.

What traits do you possess that make you a successful leader?

I think the single most useful characteristic of mine with respect to leadership is my decisiveness. I decide matters quickly, and once I make a choice, that’s final. My co-workers, colleagues, and peers all know this about me, and I believe they respect that quality.

What trends in your industry excite you?

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, there has been a growing trend of people returning to cities. This is exciting for a number of reasons, but chief among them in my opinion is the boost it will give to urban commercial spaces.

What is one piece of advice that you have never forgotten?

“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” My mother always told me that. I’ll admit it’s a cliché, but it also happens to be very good advice—especially concerning real estate.

What is one thing you would change in your industry today if you could?

I think residential property prices are still too high. It’s becoming a larger societal problem. Although the recent interest rate hikes have helped to lower them a bit, they still haven’t come down enough to give the kind of relief that Jack and Jill Twentysomething need to buy their first home.

Where do you see you and your company in five years?

In a word? Thriving. I think that we will continue to grow and achieve success for the foreseeable future.

Author: Kivo Daily Staff

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