Conversations Magazine Feature: Wahida Clark

by Cyrus Webb

I first interviewed bestselling author and savvy businesswoman Wahida Clark on December 10, 2007. At that time Conversations Book Club was holding meetings at Waldenbooks in Jackson, MS and we welcomed the public out to our conference calls with authors each week. During that conversation which took place right after her release from prison it was fascinating how even though she was an author with fans around the world she didn't seem to grasp the magnitude of what she was creating.

Clark began writing her first novel while serving a decade-long prison sentence. She told me in that first interview that she had to do something to support her family, and reading an article in a popular magazine gave her the idea to try writing. That proved to be a wise decision. While behind bars, Clark inked a publishing deal with a major publishing house, wrote and released 7 novels garnering devoted fans that continue with her even today.

Now a New York Times bestselling author and CEO of Wahida Clark Presents Publishing, Wahida Clark is proving that she is a force to be reckoned with.

I have had the honor of hosting Ms. Clark in book events in my home state of Mississippi twice now, and each time was like catching up with an old friend.

This year Conversations LIVE made history again by bringing together Wahida and Jackie Collins in their first joint interview---drawing record numbers for the radio show and excitement across the internet.

With everything that she has been through in the last decade, Wahida related to me in her first interview that she can’t even look at her jail time as a bad thing. “I can’t say it was a negative," she told me. "Without it there is no way I would not written a book.”

Definitely an example of what is possible regardless of your past, Wahida Clark shines bright as a gifted storyteller. Her advice to other aspiring writers out there? "I would tell them to write. I have had people tell me that they have five books in their head. What I tell them is they need to put them down on paper, because they aren’t doing you or anyone else any good

while they are just in your head. Do your research and make sure it is the best it can be.”

Currently Wahida is gearing up for the release of book four in her popular "Payback" series called BLOOD, SWEAT & PAYBACK. Stay in contact with her at www.wclarkpublishing.com. Listen to my interview with Clark and Jackie Collins at www.tinyurl.com/jackiewahidainterview.

Conversations Magazine Feature: Bestselling author Jackie Collins

by Cyrus Webb

She is one of the most beloved and talked about authors over the past 20 years, and there is no sign of her slowing down any time soon. With over 500 million copies of her books sold to date, Jackie Collins has become synonymous with engaging stories, sizzling story lines and characters that are talked about long after readers finish her books. 

I discovered her myself while in High School, and for the past 2 decades I have been one of those eager fans that have devoured everything she has published. Her new book, Confessions of a Wild Child, was published in February 2014 and instantly joined her others in becoming a runaway bestseller. Ever gracious and open about her literary journey, during our conversation Jackie Collins shared not just her own experiences but gave some great advice for those who are looking for the key to living life with purpose and passion. 

JACKIE ON HER FANS:

"I have the greatest fans, the greatest readers. I'm on Twitter (@JackieJCollins), and they talk with me about the characters and the books they love. It has been great interacting with them. 

JACKIE ON THE KEY TO HER SUCCESS:
"I think I write for everybody. All ages, all colors, all sexual orientations. There's something for everyone in all of my books. I am a true storyteller. That was the gift I was given, to tell stories. My main thrust has always been to write strong women, strong positive women. I think my readers love the women I create. Success (for me) is hearing back from the fans, hearing back from people who love my characters."

JACKIE ON THE REALIZATION (AND FULFILLMENT) OF THE GIFT:
"I think I realized it when I was a kid. I started writing in school and selling my stories to my school mates. I knew then I had a gift of making up a story. I read so much then, spent my leisure time reading books."

"I was expelled from school at 15. At that point you're kind of in limbo, wondering what you're going to do with your life. I wanted to be a writer. My parents said you can't be a writer, you need to go to college. You need to get degrees. When someone says to me you can't do something that's when I say to myself 'Oh yes I can.' I decided to follow the dream, and the dream was to write books. Turns out, people don’t buy books because you went to college. I'm really proud of what I've accomplished."

JACKIE ON PUBLISHING:
Her decision to "self-publish" some of her most popular books as kindle reads made news around the world, birthing over 120,000 stories about the decision. When asked about it, this is what Jackie shared about the move and the response from her fans. "All my books are on e-books in other countries, but a lot were not in America. I decided to do it myself, starting with Bitch, The Love Killers and Chances (Since then both Lucky and Lady Boss have been added to the list). I have gotten amazing reactions from my fans. They love it, and for me the experience has been very freeing."

I shared with Jackie that though I know people like the immediacy of e-books, I still love the physical copies. She mirrored my sentiment. "I want to have a book in my hand," she told me. "I have a Kindle and iPad, but I don't like reading that way. It is the new thing. I think real book lovers will still buy books, but some like the convenience of having them on Kindle which is why I am making them available to them."

JACKIE ON PURSUING THE DREAM:
"I have a particular message for women. Whether it's making cupcakes, writing books, singing or writing songs, you have got to have something for yourself, something that's yours. Everybody's got to have a passion in life. that's what makes life so exciting."

Jackie Collins will forever remain one of those authors whose work withstands the test of time. Why? Because everything she writes comes from the heart.

Stay in touch with Jackie and her upcoming projects on her website www.jackiecollins.com. She also has a Facebook fan page and can be found on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jackiejcollins. Confessions of a Wild Child is available at bookstores and online retailers everywhere.

Conversations Magazine Feature: Queen Afua

"There is a cosmic conversion going on within you, but you have to be quiet to hear this sweet language of the unspoken." ~ Queen Afua

                               (Queen Afua seen here with her sons Supanova Slom & Ali Torain)

by Cyrus Webb

She is the Monarch of the First Family of Holistic Health, and encouraging the world to take care of themselves beginning from the inside out. The lovely and unstoppable force that is Queen Afua has been my guest on Conversations LIVE twice now (along with her sons Supanova Slom and Ali Torain), and each time she left me feeling hopeful about the future and determined in my mission.

As an internationally renowned best-selling author, holistic wellness entrepreneur and highly sought after natural health practitioner, it has been Queen Afua's aim to show people a better way of eating and living. Though a great deal of her work has dealt with women, she has set an example for her sons and men around the world when it comes to the importance of taking care of your body and watching what you consume physically, emotionally and spiritually.
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With over 40 years of experience Queen Afua has built a Wellness Empire along with her sons that includes the following: The Global City of Wellness Institute, The Phenomenal Woman of Wellness School and The Heal Thyself School and her signature Heal Thyself and Sacred Spirit product line. Because she has a unique way of connecting with individuals she has been able to utilized technology to provide coaching and wellness information as well as travel from state to state and beyond sharing her mission with the masses.

Queen Afua is living proof that when you take care of your temple it shows others what is possible for them as well. That example has been passed on to her sons and because of her tireless efforts the rest of us are recipients of her gifts.

For more information visit www.queenafua.com and www.facebook.com/queenafuawellnessinstitute.

Ricky Whittle: Finding Success By Being True to Himself

by Cyrus Webb

We have all heard the saying "To thine own self be true." For many that might not resonate, but for Ricky Whittle there could not be a truer saying that explains the success he has been able to have.

Many in the United States have gotten to know him from his role as Charles on VH1's hit show SINGLE LADIES, but the U.K.-born model and actor had already made a name for himself on shows like Dream Team and Hollyoaks and now he is ready to conquer the world.

"It's always a pleasure and an honor to be doing something that you love," Whittle told me during our conversation. When I mentioned his growing fan base through through SINGLE LADIES he told me he saw it as an amazing opportunity. "For starters it's fantastic. For them (the fans) to appreciate it is a job well done for me. " He says that his start in the states is "a great start" for him in expanding his based. "It's onward and upward from here."

The internet has been a large part of how the word has spread about this talented actor. Whittle says it's taken some getting used to, but he is adapting to how people are getting their information about him. "The world is ever changing," he says. "It really is becoming a technological place. It can be scary, but I am enjoying the opportunity to have that instant connection with my fans. That part is fantastic. I definitely like to reach out."

As much as Ricky Whittle loves what he does, acting and modeling weren't his first choices for a career, but it quickly became the only thing he wanted to do. "I didn't know until I stepped on the set of the show the Dream Team that this is what I wanted to do. I fell into acting. I wanted to be a soccer player, but being on that show changed everything. I learned from the director, cameraman, everyone I could. I am still learning. One of the best lessons came from Terence Maynard. He told me 'Don't act it just feel it. Don't try to act it because that is when it is going to look fake' That is by far the best advice I got,  and I never looked back. Now I honestly can't see myself doing anything else. I'm like Peter Pan. I get to play make believe for a living."

Though he has been fortunate, Whittle realizes that the business is not all glitz and glamour. "Some just see an easy way in or a quick buck," he says. "It's a very competitive and aggressive industry. You have to be patient and understanding. You're not going to get the chance to be seen in a lot of jobs. You have to never give up and believe in yourself, following your heart's desire."

His belief for all of is that the key to finding success is being the best form of who you can be. "You shouldn't try to imitate anyone else," he says. "Just be you. Don't be disheartened. If you're not being true to yourself you might miss out on your opportunity. Stay faithful to yourself and what you want. What's meant to be will be."

Stay in contact with Ricky Whittle on his website at www.rickywhittle.com and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/mrrickywhittle.

Photo Credit: JAIPHOTO

Actor Michael Rooker: Making Every Moment Count

by Cyrus Webb

Sometimes things just come together in such a way that you know it was just meant to be. For some it seems to be an accident or luck, but you know different. You know that where you have come from has led to this moment and that adds to the gratitude. I think this is the perfect description of the man that is Michael Rooker.

I had seen him in several movies over the years including Mississippi Burning, Replicant and one of my favorites Jumper. But it would be his role as Merle Dixon on the hit AMC show The Walking Dead that would introduce him to the world and a legion of loyal admirers.

How did this happen you might ask? The answer is simple. For almost 30 years Rooker has been tilling the ground, getting himself ready for that moment when he could show the world who he was and what he could do. That moment seems to have come.

In this frank conversation we touch on topics that not only give a glimpse of the world that Michael Rooker built but what we can do to make every moment count.

MICHAEL ROOKER ON THE WALKING DEAD:
"I am and have always been a fan of the show. I was there very early in the beginning of Season 1. I got into the show sort of a la carte, thinking I would do one or two episodes perhaps and then move on. I ended up doing a lot more. The rest is history. The whole journey is one I am very fortunate and blessed to have had because look at what's happened because of it."

MICHAEL ROOKER ON ACTING:
"I didn't know acting was going to be my thing, but I was always critical early on about what commercials I liked. I've been that guy that could pick out the phony situation. This sort of eventually through me into acting. I didn't get involved until junior college. I said to myself I know I'm good at acting. I began wondering if I could actually do what they do. I took a few classes and really enjoyed myself. 'Til this day I don't know if I was that great in the beginning, but i dug it. I honed my craft and got out and started working."

MICHAEL ROOKER ON BRINGING THE PASSION:
"This is what I do: I bring passion to roles. The authenticity I feel is picked up on by the people. "The authenticity and the passion are what I pride myself on. I try to find the truth and make it as real as possible for myself. If it feels real to me then my audience will believe it."

(NOTE: When talking about passion Michael brings up the talented cast that worked with him on The Walking Dead. "It's those sorts of experiences with other actors that make it all worth it," he says. "When I work with actors that stimulate, challenge and move your performance forward it's almost magical. I still call it our show. The actors bring it every time.")

MICHAEL ROOKER ON THE FANS:
"I'm amazed and appreciative for the fans. The love I've been showered with is phenomenal. There's not a lot I can say about that. Every time I think about it I saw 'Wow!' I've been in the business since 1982, and I have never experienced anything like this. It's really wild. I'm definitely amazed at it. Not completely used to it yet, but I don't know how you can get completely ever get used to it."

MICHAEL ROOKER ON PUSHING FORWARD:
"You can't give it up. You can always find a job to make money. The key is to be stubborn. I've always been stubborn, and it has paid off in aces. If this is really what you find joy in it's worth giving up a lot of other things for it. I work my butt off. You've just got to. My lines I know them backwards and forward. I don't try to memorize the lines. I'm concerned about what's underneath them and between them. Find what you love and just stick to it."

MICHAEL ROOKER ON THE MOMENT:
"I landed so many gigs from my first movie. What stood out was a 90 second scene, and that 90 seconds has gotten me at least a half dozen film projects. It got me started, almost like prime real estate. The lesson there is this: No matter what time you have make it count."

What a great piece of advice for all of us. No matter what the profession or how some might view the outcome, it's up to us to bring it each and every time.

Michael is still on the road, meeting fans and working on new projects. You can visit him online at www.michaelrookeronline.com. You can also stay in touch with him online through Twitter at www.twitter.com/michael_rooker.

Actor IronE Singleton: Finding His Purpose By Helping Others Identify Their Own

by Cyrus Webb

Regardless of the challenge that we face or the difficulty before us we all have the opportunity to do something great with our lives. A great example of this comes from IronE Singleton. I haven't been able to stop talking about him and his book BLINDSIDED BY THE WALKING DEAD all year.

For many who know the journey of IronE Singleton growing up you might have believed that nothing good could ever come his way. If you had bet against him, however, you would have lost big time. Today the Atlanta native has achieved his dream of being not just a working actor but one that has starred in some of the biggest television shows and movies of the past three years. Most notably he was the thug Alton alongside Sandra Bullock in The Blind Side and then in 2011 he brought to life the character T-Dog in the hit AMC show The Walking Dead. Both experiences shaped him in ways you wouldn't imagine, and he has chronicled his experiences in his memoir BLINDSIDED BY THE WALKING DEAD. It's a book that I was so impressed with that I made it one of my Top 50 Non-Fiction reads of 2013.

In the book we read that IronE knew he wanted to head to Hollywood and be known, but he could have never imagined the journey over the past few years. "I  didn't know when it was going to happen," he told me during our interview. "I just knew it was going to happen. Now that I'm living it, it's a little surreal."

Ironically, though we look at the character T-Dog as a zombie fighting machine in The Walking Dead, IronE says that he learned quite a bit about himself from the character. "The fact that T-Dog came together with so many different people to help one another, to survive....that is ultimately what it's like on this earth," he explained. "We're supposed to be looking out for each other. We can't just make it alone. We are all one. We come from the same source. That is what I realized when I was playing the character.  It's a lot bigger than the walking dead. It's more than just a tv show. It's an extreme form of reality, but it is something that people could really relate to and take their minds off of their real life situations and enjoy."

Along with his own journey IronE's book takes us into the underbelly of his community, a world that would eventually claim many of his friends and even his own mother. I asked if it was difficult to share so much of his truth that way with the world. "It wasn't difficult to share at all," he told me. "I think I needed to share it all in order to cleanse myself in order for my rebirth to take place. I had skeletons that I was dealing with. In order for me to become the person I am today I had to share with the rest of humanity." Instead of regret, IronE experienced a release. "When I did let it out things seem to flow more easily in the universe.

"My mother was a crack addict and alcoholic and died from HIV complications. Just seeing what that life (doing drugs) could do to a person told me that I didn't want to go down that road." He became strengthened in his resolve to change things around. "I was determined to never do drugs and once I had a family I talked with them about the dangers of that life. It's a hard thing to make a change," he told me. "It's a lot easier to just say you will never go down that path. It's a road of nightmares, one that's very difficult to come back from."

Ironically it was acting that also caused IronE to examine the way he was treating himself and women as well. While filming a project called Secrets which dealt with a character that was HIV positive, he says he began to do a self-evaluation. "It took me back to growing up in the inner city," he explained. "My big fear was thinking of all the women I had slept with, some of them unprotected. I started to reflect on all that I had done in my life. During the filming of the movie he was tested for HIV. When it came back negative he saw it as a message from God. "My purpose hadn't been fulfilled yet," he told me. He began setting out looking for ways to fulfill that very purpose. In 2009 that opportunity presented itself in a big way.

That year IronE Singleton began working on the movie The Blindside, and his character would become part of some of the most memorable scenes of the Academy-nominated film. After the taping he was approached by the show's star Sandra Bullock, chronicling it in his book:

"She threw her arms around me and gave me a big hug, commending me for my performance, saying I had genuinely wowed her and creeped her out at the same time. Sandy told me she panicked a little when she saw what I was putting out there, wondering how she'd be able to respond in kind. She looked forward to seeing me in Hollywood and hoped we would have the chance to work together again in the future."

When I asked him how that encounter made him feel, IronE says it was "affirmation that everything happens for a reason. This was my time. Everything I had gone through in my life had come full circle."

The same can be said about the show The Walking Dead. "My hope is that everybody uses their experiences in life to realize that there is always a better day as long as we continue to work hard and never give up. Always have truth and love in your heart, and you'll be alright."

When it comes to the message he wants his fans to take away from his career it is this: "Your purpose is to help others search for theirs and on that journey you will find yours. The only thing I have to do on this planet is to love. Do everything to where God would appreciate it. No matter what you are going through stay optimistic. Use the negative as fuel for the positive. Let it inspire you."

To stay abreast of all the new projects and appearance for IronE, visit www.ironesingleton.com and make sure to follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ironesingleton.

To You, From Me: Walk By Faith... How?

"We walk by faith, not by sight."

Those words found in the Bible at 2 Corinthians 5:7 have really been the basis for the way I have lived my life over the past 6 years. It says to me that though things are not where you want them to be now it doesn't mean it won't get there.

When you look at your life and the decisions you have made or delayed do you see your faith in action? It's a personal and reflective question, but one that we have to ask if we truly want to move forward in our lives and in our relationships with God and others.

As you look at your year have you allowed the fear of what might go wrong stop you from pursuing all that you believe and want for yourself? Have you acted on that passion that burns within you or sought out ways to go beyond what man says you can or cannot do?

In this issue you will find amazing examples of individuals who have learned what it means to truly walk by faith. Highlighted on the cover is Jackie Carpenter. The two of us were introduced to each other in 2010. She is the author of THE BRIDGE and GEORGIA JUSTICE as well as an individual who has seen what walking by faith can do. Her journey and that of her family is the basis of the new film STAND YOUR GROUND which debuts in theaters in January 2014.

Jackie's faith and the belief that God could do what man couldn't is what she literally based her life on. How did she do it? It wasn't that she didn't try to handle situations herself. The breakthrough came when she was able to see that God was in control and that meant turning it all over to Him. It became about surrender. She could go no further for her son. She had to truly entrust him into God's arms of protection. That was all it took. God did the rest.

Jackie never intended to write a book, but the events in her life and the lessons she learned were meant for others to benefit from. Listening to God and putting her faith in action she was able to publish not one but two books about her experiences and God's victory in her life---and now a movie chronicling the events is on the way. Details can be found at www.standyourgroundmovie.com.

Do you find yourself stalled or in a place where the answer doesn't seem to be available? Ask yourself this: 'Have I surrendered? Have I given all that I am and all that I have to the One that cannot fail?' If the answer to these questions is no then you realize what has to be done. If the answer is yes, then you can be at peace that God will do what He has always said He would, and that is whatever is in His will.

May we all get to a place where we can find the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7) and be able to show others what it means to allow our faith to guide us.

Happy Reading!




Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief
Conversations Magazine

Polly Campbell's Imperfect Spirituality

by Cyrus Webb

In 2013 I read hundreds of books, but I have to say that those that really stuck with me (both fiction and non-fiction) were the ones that included something that I could see pieces of myself in. A perfect example of such a title is IMPERFECT SPIRITUALITY by Polly Campbell. This book was just the kind of resource I and others need to realize the importance of who we are today and the many reasons we have to love ourselves.

Thankfully I was able to connect with the author and during our conversation we discussed not just the book but how it is making a difference in the lives of others by just stating this basic truth: You are enough.

"It's been inspiring and gratifying for me," Campbell says when I asked her about the response. "This message resonates with them but they're teaching me as well. Many of us are saddled with this concept that we need to live up to some ideal, that we have to be somehow different than how we are to be accepted." She admits that this was a part of how she lived but something changed. "I don't do that anymore. I decided that I'm imperfect. I got all this stuff, good and bad, within me. When I found my way through imperfect spirituality I really became free and liberated to live a whole life." It is that message that is also speaking to people around the world.

One of the big lessons that I learned in IMPERFECT SPIRITUALITY is the importance of realizing your value and where you can find real happiness. "People are realizing that the solution to these things is not outside of us any more," Polly says. "That's not working. It's within us, and when we realize that we are good enough to handle whatever comes we are free to do it." The process can be scary but it's necessary. "Often we have outgrown our value systems," she explains. In order to move forward we have to reexamine where we are and where we want to go. "When we know our values we can move towards them."

A great deal of this process of not just loving yourself for who you are but recognizing the gifts you bring has a great deal to do with being one within yourself. "I think a lot of times our mind and our heart are separate," Polly says. "I want to bring those things back into alignment." To do that, however, takes courage, something that she writes about a great deal in IMPERFECT SPIRITUALITY. "Courage is the thing that gives us movement. Without it we are stuck. Anytime you step into a transition in your life it requires some courage. It's an innate quality. The rest can be developed. The best way to learn is to practice it."

When you are thinking about this and the transformation in the way you think and react to life it can be a little overwhelming. The great thing to remember, though, is that you don't have to try to change everything all at once. "Take a baby step. Take a stand when the stakes are low. It's the best way to practice courage and develop more of it. When the stakes are higher it shows up for you in those moments."

Polly told me that in just reading the book IMPERFECT SPIRITUALITY readers are showing they have the courage necessary to go further. This means that you have to be open to what can be and be willing to surrender when you believe you can't go any further.

"Surrender is about being aware of myself both as a marvel and something that is so small and minute that I can't manage the entire universe by myself," she says. "When I am able to give up that element of control there is nothing but peace because then there's room for optimism and faith to push in. I make space for the larger possibility."

In the book she talks about the various ways we can show this courage and surrender. It can be as easy as stepping out of your comfort zone. "The reason I was saying no was because I was fearful.  It was easier to say no. What I realized is that my life became really restrictive. It's our nature to be creative and expansive. The energy of yes is different than the energy of no.

"When we say yes the energy in our life shifts where we attract greater possibilities and people to us. The energy of yes pushes us towards our passions and purposes and makes space for things to arrive."

Are you ready to see where you can go in the New Year? If so it begins with a decision. Find out more about Polly Campbell's own transformation and how you can begin your own at www.imperfectspirituality.com.

The Rise and Grind of Actor Vincent M. Ward

by Cyrus Webb

He has appeared on hit shows such as Everybody Hates Chris, The Starter Wife, Desperate Housewives and even Hot In Cleveland,however in 2012 fans of the hit television show The Walking Dead on AMC got to know actor Vincent M. Ward as Oscar. Regardless of when you were first introduced to him, it is evident at this very moment that the man who has been bringing characters to life for more than a decade isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

"I'm honored to be here," Ward told me during our conversation together. "I'm accomplishing stuff that I never dreamed of. I look at myself as being a normal person that just happens to be on some of the shows that people like."

And like him and the show The Walking Dead fans do! I asked Vincent if he thought that where he is right now is really a result of the hard work he has put in over the years paying off. "Most definitely," he replied, but he went on to add that it required some changes in him as well. "God had to humble me in some things," he explained. "I always tell people the best is yet to come. When I am walking out on faith then more doors are going to open. That's why I try to stay in a place where I can do what God has put me here to do."

Vincent is definitely eclectic in his interest, even last year releasing an erotic spoken word cd called Eargasms. When I asked him about it he says he was encouraged to do it because of his voice but is going to "leave that for the professionals." "I told myself that I'm going to stay in my lane and stick to acting," he told me. The decision to be careful with what he puts out he says 'comes with the walk.' "I'm trying my best not to straddle the fence." We would talk more about that fence and his responsibility to his fans a little later.

I went on to ask Vincent when he looked at what he's been able to do does it really feel as though he has found his place when it comes to acting. "I believe this is where I belong," he told me. "I didn't choose acting. It chose me. I tell this story all the time how I walked in a theater in Ohio for my first play and fell in love with it. To be here now and to get up and rise and grind is a blessing. I tell myself that you're going to be one of the best in this industry, and that is what I expect to do. Anytime you stick with something it's bound to pay off sooner or later. People would ask me if it doesn't work out with acting what are you going to fall back on. I told them I don't have anything to fall back on because I'm going to fall on what I love, and that's acting."

That positive attitude and that passion is a key to why he has become so popular, even after his time on the show ended. Vincent M. Ward literally has fans around the world that attend events or communicate with him online. I asked him about that layer of his success. "I've gotten used to the fans," he says, "but I'm just a regular guy. The biggest thing I have going for me is my personality." Vincent told me he doesn't understand some in the public eye distancing themselves from their fans and their base. To him it is a privilege to have them and spend time with them. "It can be taken away just as quickly as it was given to me," he says. "I don't like to even call them fans. To me they are people who support what I do, and I love them for that. I'm probably just as excited to meet them as they are to meet me."

Probably one of the most poignant times during our conversation was when I asked Vincent what it was like to be a part of a show like The Walking Dead. His answer surprised me. "To be honest two years ago I didn't even know what The Walking Dead was. I was asked about being on their and I said 'Why would I want to be on a show about zombies.' I found out, though, it's more than just zombies. It's the actors and the writing that make the show. It's the best cast and crew I've ever worked with and that's saying a lot. We all came to it with the thought 'let's make greatness.' In reality the character Oscar is not too far from who I am in real life." Vincent went on to say that he knew the show was a hit when he would call his mom and she would start reciting his lines.

Picking up on his point about the show being more than just about zombies I asked Vincent about the commentary that the show The Walking Dead presented when it comes to mankind, how even in times of trouble we can't all band together. "It's just like Katrina," he told me. "As bad as it was then people were still raping and stealing from each other. You're always going to have a bad person no matter what is going on. That's one of the reasons the show definitely hits home. There is always going to be someone who lives their life the way they want to live it."

Earlier in our talk Vincent had mentioned the importance of not straddling the fence. I asked him what responsibility did he feel to those who do admire and look up to him. "It starts at home with your parents and your teachers," he began. "Our fans have to remember that we're normal people too. We're going to make mistakes, and you have to remember that when you see us on a show we're playing a role. It's all fake. When we shoot someone on set and the director yells 'Cut!', they get up. In the real world when you shoot someone on the street they're not getting up. You have to be wise about the decisions you make in life. Life is about choices. You make that wrong choice and that could be the end of your life. You have to think about the people that are there for you to support you. When you mess us we all have to pay for it."

No matter what your calling in life Vincent says his advice to you would be the same as for himself: "Rise and grind. Get up everyday and do something to better your life or somebody else's life. Be ready so you don't have to get ready. If you're looking to break into the entertainment industry have your head shot and your business cards. No matter what have a good attitude. Make the people want to work with you."

Vincent is preparing for the release of new movies and plays in the near future. To stay abreast with his projects and upcoming appearances visit his website www.vincentmward.com and stay in touch with his Twitter updates at www.twitter.com/vincentmward.

Actress Francine Locke: Finding "Justice" On Her God-Directed Journey

by Cyrus Webb

Some things just seem to happen, but do they really? I know for me there have been instances where it seems as though things were working out so well that it was just meant to me. I've since come to realize that this is what happens when you are able to realize your own limitations and give yourself over to something larger than yourself.

Actress Francine Locke has also found this to be true. As someone who had over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry she has been involved in commercials, industrial films and modeling. When I caught up with her as she was promoting the film Stand Your Ground (formerly Georgia Justice) that will be released in January 2014. Her own personal journey has been one of soul searching and reflection, and now she is using her gift in a way that is sure to inspire others.

"I've taken a different step forward in this industry," she told me. "I want to use what I have been given to bring light to a dark environment. I had been modeling and acting for many years, but it was really just to pay the bills." After taking a ten-year break from the business she has returned with a new outlook on her life, her gift and what she can do with it. "Today I want to use what God gave me to show something more positive."

The change that Francine has experience has a lot to do with the person she's become. "When I first started I was in a different place in my life," she explains. "Right now I am at a different place spiritually. This has led me to accept who I am and what God wanted me to be." When referring to the entertainment world she points out the difference in the perception versus the reality. "It's not the glamour lifestyle that is depicted. It's just work. It's a job." What makes it different for her this time around, though, is her own motive towards that job. "Today the way I feel is that I am finally where I belong."

Francine role in the upcoming film Stand Your Ground is that of Jackie Carpenter, someone who is no stranger to Conversations Magazine or Conversations LIVE radio show. The project is based on Jackie's own journey of faith as outlined in her books THE BRIDGE and GEORGIA JUSTICE. "It has been such a God-directed journey," Francine told me. In fact when Jackie saw Francine her words to her "We've been praying for Jackie to show up, and it's you."

Stand Your Ground was exactly the kind of project that fit where Francine is in her life now. "It's something that I feel like I am completely suited for," she says. "When I read the script I could say that I know the feelings of frustrations of wanting to be in control and having to give it all up to God."

That is what both Francine and I believe viewers of the film will be able to take away from it: how much Jackie's journey of faith is really all of our journey.

With Francine's experiences in the industry has come invaluable advice that she is more than willing to share with others. "I feel so empowered to tell people to do what is good in your heart. You don't have to say yes to everything. It's up to you to  make the right choices. There is a reason why you are put where you are at."

For actors and actresses she share this nugget: "Do all the work you can as long as it is up to your moral standards. The right projects will 'suddenly' show up. You can continue to work in this environment to grow your craft and to grow yourself spiritually."

For more information about Francine visit http://www.francinelocke.com/ . To stay abreast of everything dealing with with Stand Your Ground visit http://www.standyourgroundmovie.com/.

Actor Drew Matthews: Following the Road Leading to His Destiny

by Cyrus Webb

Our path to our own personal passion or purpose is not always a straight one. Sometimes it includes some twists and turns, bumps and valleys---but if we are truly committed to it the destination we are intended for is the one we will reach.

For actor Drew Matthews where he is today is due to nothing else but his faith and perseverance. I got to know him as one of the leading cast members in the movie Stand Your Ground.  He plays Jason Veitch, the man at the center of the storm that takes place through the film and as it was in real life for his family. Talking with Drew, however, I can't help but see how he would resonate with the story-line. "My journey has morphed over the years," he told me. He credits much of his success from learning something that actors are suppose to develop in their craft: creating conversation, making the dialogue about the other person and not yourself.

Drew started acting when he was young. When did he know it was something he wanted to do? "In our kindergarden play when I played the gingerbread man," he told me. It was a big thing for his family at the time, and for him too. After that he wanted to be a part of every production---that is at least until middle school.

"I stopped performing in middle school and high school," he explained. The reason being caving into peer pressure. Drew says his classmates weren't friendly about him being a part of productions. He was tired of being bullied and did something that actually got him praise in another area: tennis.

As I said earlier, though, it doesn't matter what happens along the road to purpose. If we are truly passionate about something it always comes back around. This proved true for Drew as well. He told me that after college he had to be true to himself about what he really loved. "I decided I couldn't escape how much I enjoyed acting and went back to studying the craft and was going to do what was making me happy."

Acting for Drew is about more than just about getting attention. It's about bringing attention to something larger than you. "Everybody at some point in time want to feel like they are contributing and want to do their part in life," he said to me. "I don't claim to be a great actor. I claim to love acting. I hope that one day I can be great at it. I'll keep working hard for it. No matter what I'm going to encourage others, bringing others up and go for my dreams." He then added: "That is the scariest thing I could have said out loud," but for him it is the truth.

When discussing getting into character for Stand Your Ground Drew says "It's not as easy as it looks." Known mostly for light-hearted performances, this role required he go into another place. "I can't tell you how hard it is. This is the first time I've had to do a film where I had to constantly make myself vulnerable and open to the audience." A great deal of what made it possible to bring Jason Veitch to life was the director. "Every actor that was there would walk on glass" for him, Drew explained. When he discussed the finished product and what he hopes others would see in it he says "We kept the story pure and honest and full of integrity."

When Stand Your Ground opens in select theaters in January 2014 viewers will be able to see how faith and reliance in God helps you to withstand any challenge you face.

For Drew the path now is clear and though it has its obstacles he is sure that where he is today is exactly where he is supposed to be.  His message from what he has learned? "You've got to be exactly what you've been called to be." Only then can you say that you are truly living.

Stay in touch with Drew Matthews online at www.facebook.com/drewmatthewsactor and www.twitter.com/drewlmatthews. Discover more about the movie Stand Your Ground at www.standyourgroundmovie.com.

*  Top photo from www.facebook.com/drewmatthewsactor. Bottom photo from www.standyourgroundmovie.com.

Kenyon Glover: Living Life on Purpose

by Cyrus Webb

The road to the destination called purpose is sometimes a tricky one.

We all know what it's like to have a love for something and either never see it realized or have it snatched away. What we do in that moment determines not only the rest of our lives but what our purpose might actually be.

Take Kenyon Glover for instance. Today he seems to have it all: an amazing career as a model, actor, director, clothing line designer and he ends the year that is 2013 as an author having published his autobiography From Atlanta to Hollywood: Chasing the Dream. There seems to be very little that he can't do. Few would guess that all of what he has accomplished in the entertainment industry almost never happened. Why? Because after his NBA dreams were shattered, Glover had gotten to a point in his life where he was not only suicidal, but had actually held a gun to his head and pulled the trigger...

How was he able to realize and walk in his purpose before it was too late? That and more is what we discussed in our fascinating conversation.

KENYON GLOVER ON HIS LIFE NOW: "I'm blessed to be able to do what I have learned to love to do. It's been a heck of a journey. I have an interesting story to tell, and I hope it will inspire others to keep pushing for their dreams. I thank God for allowing me to wake up and do what I do. It's been rough. This live is one where you have to put in 120% a day. If you slack up everything can fall apart. My goal when I wake up is to make today better than yesterday. I've come a long way, and I'm appreciative for everything I've overcome and had fun doing it."

KENYON ON SPORTS: "I started playing basketball at the age 5. It was all I wanted to do. It was my dream to play in the NBA. Fortunately I had people around me that worked with me and wanted to see me succeed. I had brothers who pushed me and trained with me everyday. They made me tough and strong. It meant alot to have my family there to support me."

"I played ball through high school and had scholarship offers all around the country. I got to a point where I wanted to be: the NBA. Then 3 months after joining the Milwaukee Bucks I was injured. The doctors said I was done."

KENYON ON MOVING FORWARD: "After my NBA dream was gone I went into a total depression. I became suicidal and attempted suicide. I put a gun to my head and pulled the trigger, but the trigger got stuck. From that moment on I knew there was something else God wanted me to do.

"I started getting on my knees and praying and getting myself back together. It took me about a year. It was then that someone approached me about modeling. I got into it and before long I was working all over the country with different clothing companies. After that a friend invited me to attend an acting workshop with them. At the workshop I was asked by the acting coach to participate and fell in love with acting. It took over from there. I got to a place where I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. Basketball was put in the back of my mind. It been non-stop ever since."

* * *
The lessons that Kenyon have learned through his experiences are ones he is passing on to all that he meets. "You can't give up," he says. "Never give up on anything. No matter what, continue to pursue your dreams."

I asked him about the attention he gets from being in front of the camera and if it was something he was completely comfortable with. "It's been very comfortable for me," he replied. "I see it as a way of using it to my advantage. If I can inspire someone else to achieve what they want to achieve it's all worth it."

The projects that appeal the most to the mogul are action projects. "Those are the the roles that attract me," he says. "I like being the good guy that saves the day."

Outside of those that support him in person from project to project is his amazing online audience that follow him on each step of his journey. "I love social media because it connects you with your fans. They want to know more about you as a person, and I am able to talk with them one on one." Kenyon also using the online tools to grow as well. "I try to get advice and suggestions from my peers," he says. "I'm constantly picking their brains, because they are where I want to be. I'm really thankful for those who support me. It's good to know that they care and like what I have going on. I respect that."

There's a lot to look forward to from the man that is living his life on purpose. Kenyon has added another title to his name: that of director. His first short film is called LEAGUE OF REDEMPTION. He is also gearing up for the next season of his popular web series ANICA and promoting his newly launched clothing line called LDG which stands for League of Distinguished Gentlemen. Kenyon explains: "The main purpose was to be a movement. It's caters towards men who are making positive moves, are role models and giving back to their communities. When you have on LDG I want you to feel like you are part of something good."

To stay in contact with Glover visit his website www.kenyonglover.com and check him out on the social networking sites at www.facebook.com/kenyondglover  and www.twitter.com/kenyonglover. You can find out more about the clothing line at www.lodgclothing.com.


                                                                            ***
REVIEW: From Atlanta to Hollywood (Chasing A Dream)
by Cyrus Webb

A lot of times when it comes to someone in the public eye we just focus on the good they are doing or on the success. Few, however, know the path that they had to travel in order to get there or the challenges that could have stopped them along the way.

In his book FROM ATLANTA TO HOLLYWOOD: Chasing A Dream, renaissance man Kenyon Glover shares not just the highs of his life but what it was like for him to rise from a past of abuse, bad decisions and betrayal to be respected as an actor, director and business man.

I have interviewed Glover a few times on Conversations LIVE Radio, but a great deal of what he shares in the book was new to me. I think it really does give a glimpse into what it takes to make it in life and how you can't allow a setback or a bad situation to define you.

After dealing with a dark chapter in his life and attempting to end it all Glover came away with this revelation: "God had a plan for me and that was God's way of telling me that He ain't done with me yet." After that he was able to refocus his life and even was able to inspire others because of his positive outlook and determination. When it comes to his family he says that they have helped him to realize what is ultimately important. "I have learned that sometimes you have to put yourself and your dreams aside and put your family ahead of your dreams...Now when I walk into auditions or gigs, I have a sense of security because I know I have a family at home waiting on me that loves me no matter what. Whether I succeed or if I fail, they are going to love me regardless."

This entire book is a life lesson for us all. Regardless of what you are going through or what you might face, the important thing is to never give up on what is important. The road may not always be easy, but if you stick to the journey it will be worth it.

New Issue of Conversations Model Citizens Magazine Release Mon. Aug. 19th

Conversations Media Group is excited to announce that the new issue of Conversations Model Citizens releases on Mon. August 19, 2013. Featuring actors Michael Rooker, IronE Singleton and Vincent M. Ward (AMC's The Walking Dead), Actor Cameron Arnett (A Cry For Justice), Actor Ryan McIntyre, authors Rosalie Turner, Patricia Martin Holt and more carries the theme of making every moment count.

"This issue is really a rallying cry for all of us," says Cyrus Webb, Conversations Magazine Editor-In-Chief. I hope that individuals who read it will see that regardless what profession they are in they have the ability to be great." The issue goes online Monday,August 19, 2013, however, single print issues are $6.99, shipping included and can be order at the button below.

Stay in touch with all things Conversations Magazine at www.conversationsmodelcitizens.com and www.conversationsmag.com.

Loving You for YOU

"What the world needs now is love, sweet love..."

Those words from a popular song written in the 1960s is just as true today.

One of the biggest lessons of my life so far has been the importance of love. For individuals of faith we are reminded of the power of love in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13. We are even told in the scriptures that God is Love. What seems to be the dilemma for so many, however, is to believe that they are worthy of such love.

The world tells us how much we need to change, to be more like what others might see as the ideal individual. What I believe is that we need to begin to love ourselves as we are.

In this issue of Conversations Model Citizens you will meet individuals of all walks of life that are doing amazing things around the world. They couldn't do it, though, if they hadn't first realized their own worth and value. This means they have to love themselves enough to give their best, only then can their efforts be rewarded.

So many times we seem to love everyone EXCEPT ourselves. By doing that we forget that unless we take care of ourselves personally, we won't have much to offer anyone.

Embrace who you are with all of your imperfections and quirks. Know that you were created to be an individual, and only by being that person can you be the best you possible. If you can get to that place then you are sure to be on the right track for seeing your dreams coming true.

Want to share how you learned to love yourself? Email me at cawebb4@juno.com.

Until next time, happy reading!



Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief
Conversations Magazine
www.conversationsmodelcitizens.com

Erin Morgart: Transforming Her Life From the Inside Out

by Cyrus Webb

With a new month comes the thoughts of maybe bringing forth a new you. This could mean ideas of changing the way you look, the way you see your life and your role in t o clearing out the clutter that is keeping you from being the best of yourself.

Whatever it may be, remember that there is a big difference in just talking about a solution for your problems and acting doing something.

Take for instance fitness trainer and model Erin Morgart. It is safe to say that she is the perfect representation of marrying your thoughts with your actions.

Morgart grew up not thinking a lot about her weight because she was small and fit. As life happened to her, however, things (and her body) began to change, and she realized that decisions had to be made.

She made what she refers to as a "conscious decision" to change her life, and today she is reaping the rewards. "For most people there will be a catalyst that if they don't do something right now they can go down the slippery slope or do what they know they should do to change," Morgart told me. "I was there."

After having two children and seeing the way her body was hanging was enough to trigger the inner competitor inside of her. "I said to myself that this weight just had to go," she says. "I was tired of being sick and tired and depressed. I had this moment in my mind where I said I'm sick of it." She says it was like "a switch that comes on that says 'that's it.'" From there she was on her way to the transformation that people see today.

Training was a large part of her experience, but it began inside. "The decision to change is 95% mental," she says. "If we want it we have to consciously make an effort. "I took it to an extreme level where I didn't want to go back to where I was. It was a healthy obsession that continues to pay off."

Among the changes was her diet and starting a food journal. As the results began to show themselves Morgart decided to use her experiences to help others. It was beneficial for her as well. "I know I can do better," she would tell herself. It was like competing against herself. "I do better when I'm with people. I feed off other people's energy. It was more or less a self challenge for me. So many people have a history of health issues," she says. "I would really like to be around for my children, and I know others would as well."

Now Erin Morgart is enjoying not only the fruit of her own hard work but helping others as well. "It feels fantastic to be making a difference," she says. "There is no greater joy than helping others reach their goals. I hold them accountable." She tells them that this is their time for them to become the person that you once were and can be. For her it affects more than just the way you look. "It does carry over into all other points of your life: spiritual, relationships..everything."

You can find Morgart all over the country as well as taking advantage of the opportunities available through reaching clients and others online. "It's a joy to be a positive inspiration," she told me. "I really try to keep it personal. I see it as a blessing to reach other people on such a grand scale."

Erin Morgart's story is proof of how you can begin making changes in your life today. It all begins with a decision. "I did it on my own but that's my personality," she says. "There is nothing wrong with working out with someone else or hiring a trainer. There comes a time when you will say I can't live like this anymore. For those people who are out there they know it is not going to happen overnight. You have to be patient. It's a matter of being consistent.  It's doable. Believe me, I'm not the only one capable of doing it. "

Stay in contact with Erin at www.erinjmorgart.com as well as on Twitter at www.twitter.com/erinjmorgart as well as Facebook at www.facebook.com/erinjmorgart.

Recording Artist Estee: Reminding Us to Whom We Belong

by Cyrus Webb

When I compile my list of favorite female recording artists of 2012 there is one name you can definitely expect one name to be at the top of that list: Estee.

From the first time I interviewed her some two years ago I knew that she had a gift that was not only helping and inspiring others but truly blessed in a special way. Whether it's the singles "I Wouldn't", "I'm Still His" or the new track "Excuses", it seems that her music always comes at a time when it is most needed.

Estee has known all of her life that she had a gift, something that was special. It was further reinforced by her mother. She told me that its really been the past five years that she's used it for nothing but Gospel music.

When reflecting on how her voice is impacting the lives of others, Estee told me "I think it's an honor. I give God glory for it." The compliment, though, is not an ego boost for the singer/songwriter.She then added that the evidence of the music reaching people where they are is "proof that it's not me. I ask for God to remove me and have His way in what He wants me to say."

Part of what is able to keep Estee focused on her role in the spreading the Good News of God is the reminder of her own imperfections and flaws. She sings about this in the song "I'm Still His", and she expounded on it during our most recent interview. "I know that everyone has had their trials and tribulations. For me it is truly a blessing that I'm still here. I have a message to give that's God's message. He is using me to show that just my being here is a testimony."

The real beauty of what Estee shares is that it's not too late for her to turn things around. When we know we have fallen short and not done things the way we should, we have the opportunity to set things right. "We know who we serve," she said to me. "At the end of the day we get down on our knees and ask for forgiveness. We're His children no matter what. Don't give up. Start brand new. God gives you strength to move on."

To find out more about Estee and take advantage of the opportunity to be inspired by her music, visit www.omega7productions.com.