A few weekends ago, I knew I was in for a monumental moment in my life as well as in the lives of all the others who were participants of the Own Your Power Retreat.
October 25-28th, 2007 was the first ever retreat of this kind. The workshops were unbelievable, the people were warm and friendly, the experience- enlightening and might I even say mind-blowing. I set out to create an event that would help others take a step back and look at their lives, revaluate just exactly where they want to go personally and professionally. I had no idea the things that I would have to deal with to pull it off!

I must say that behind the scenes, I had to constantly check myself and say, “practice what you preach Missy!” Behind the scenes, there were various obstacles aka STEPPING STONES that came my way. There were things that I needed to overcome to make the retreat a success. Each time a ‘stepping stone’ got in my way,~at times hurling at me at 100 mph before I ducked~, something would always come and ‘catch it for me’. I faced my challenges head on and was able to come out on top no matter how many bruises I might have to doctor.

The people in my POSITIVE circle is what helped me tremendously. There is no way I could have put on the retreat or any of the projects I do, if it weren’t for the volunteers, the friends, the sponsors, the words of encouragement from some of the speakers.

When the going got tough, I’m blessed that these dear friends continued to lighten my load when I actually considered quitting. I had to practice what I preached and OWN MY POWER and be grateful for the positive people in my corner from my husband, friends, and mentors. The great energy of these people is what keeps me ticking. I’m so grateful to all those who were there in my corner! THANK YOU!

That is what this issue is all about, paying attention to those people in your life and making an effort to LEARN from them, yes the good and the bad. Sit back and enjoy. We even have some VIDEO links for you to check out.


Own Your Power was a life-changing event that went beyond the basic tactics we see every day. If you want to go deeper into your feelings and create a better life this is the event for you.

“The Own Your Power Retreat in Miami this past October 2007 was a great success for everybody who attended. It was a great networking opportunity, which allowed me to not only meet new contacts, but start a business partnership with somebody from UK, a way to grow my business more internationally. Simone Kelly Brown, put together an extraordinary panel of speakers, from business, marketing, management to self development, all aspects of our small business life was covered for a perfect balance. Thanks again Simone and I can’t wait for the next edition.”
The Own Your Power Retreat was phenomenal. I am so thankful to have been a part of this amazing retreat. A week prior I had resigned from my job in MD to pursue my dream job in event planning in NYC. The people in attendance, information, tips, and motivational workshops re-enforced my decision and it was just what I needed at the just the right time. All of speakers shared something that I will always remember and use day to day. The people in attendance made each day warm, inviting, and fun. I will definitely attend next year!

Congratulations to all of the Own Your Power Award winners, especially Dannielle Brantley who won TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR. We’d also like to acknowledge Sharon Mayers who won the Making Moves Award or being voted the most favorite Give ‘n Take Member!

Hear more testimonials and see our video here!

Your circle of influence says a lot!
When you surround yourself with people who evoke the best in you, and an environment that supports your excellence, success is certain! View this quick video from Coach Mo (Monikah Ogando) as gives you something to think about…who’s on your team or in your circle?

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE!