MomsTown NEWS - 4S Ranch

4S Ranch Edition MAY 2021 | VOL II SWaraohoda conversation with local women in business COMPLIMENTS OF: RAY SHAY BRE# 01354548

KW Refresh Renovate now._ Pay Later Through my partnership with KW Refresh, we can prepare your home for sale with no upfront costs, interest, or hidden fees; payment is collected when your home sells The Value of Pre-Sale Renovation Maximize list Attract more Sell your home price and potential buyers faster proceeds Through my exclusive partnership with KW Refresh, you can expect: • No credit-check • No out-of-pocket expenses • No additional fees • Project management throughout the entire process • Vetted and insured service providers • One year warranty on all work • Access to a pre-sale renovations expert Call Ray to maximize your net proceeds! 2 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

It's Malasada Season MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 The ultimate beach donuts! Oceanside Pier Thursday-Sunday mornings Starting 7ay 15th Come early! When we sell out... We sell out! NOMADIC | 24 3

MomsTown is partnering with Simplecast, recently acquired by SiriusXM and Pandora, to build something special and you’re invited to join us! KEY BENEFITS TO JOINING THE MOMSTOWN PODCAST NETWORK Turnkey Platform Community of Show Hosts & Monthly Get-togethers Increased Potential of Ad Sales & Monetization Dynamic Ad Insertion Access to Podcast Weekend All Shows Promoted on MomsTown.com Data & Statistics Dedicated Support Tools & Training Cross-Promote w/ Other Network Shows Recurring Feature on MomsTown365 (only available to network hosts) If you’re an aspiring podcaster or have an existing podcast please reach out. It’s going to be fun! Send an eMail to: [email protected] 4 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

how to start a podcast in a WEEKEND Podcasting is hot! The number of podcasts on Apple Podcasts We decided to pull back the curtain and share with you our strat- recently surpassed two million. It’s a trend that shows no signs egies for getting a quick and easy start, how we churn out pro- of slowing down. fessional podcasts on a shoestring and even a few of the unique ways we make money podcasting! We’ve been writing and podcasting for years and host MomsTown365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast Showcasing Here are some of the upcoming highlights: Mom Creators. We also host Kitchen Dough, How to Make Money from Your Home Kitchen with a Recipe; Go with Your ♦ The Art of Hosting Gut, How to Make Decisions You Can Trust; and Blisspreneurs, ♦ 8 Critical Features of an Episode How to Take Your Bliss to the Bank. ♦ The Magic Clock ♦ The Number One Way to Save Money on Your Production We are also the founders of the MomsTown Podcast Network. ♦ How to Make Money with Your Podcast We are excited about this month as we launch new podcasts with up-and-coming podcasters onto the network. We are excited to share the world of podcasting! It truly has been the one platform that has produced the greatest outcomes in our If you’ve been dreaming about starting a podcast we say, “Now business. is the time to stop dreaming and start doing!” Whether you want to start a podcast as a hobby or you’re excited If the process seems too overwhelming or you simply don’t about how podcasting might boost your bottom line, check out know where to start, head on over to PodcastWeekend.com Podcast Weekend! and grab a copy of Start a Podcast, How to Start a Podcast in a Weekend. It makes starting a podcast almost as easy as a day at Download your copy, at: PodcastWeekend.com the beach. We wrote the eBook because we are often asked how to get started, how to grow and how to make money with a podcast. We also know there are a lot of misconceptions about podcast- ing. Some of the misconceptions are that podcasting can be difficult, time-consuming and expensive. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 5

locally grown punk rock band BombPops continues to shake things up MomINTERVIEW WITH PUNK ROCK POLI VANDAM On MomsTown365, the Daily Podcast for Mom Creators, we are honored to have so many amazing women on this show and so many great features, and sometimes they're very personal. Our next guest is very near and dear to my heart, Poli VanDam. She's a singer and guitarist for a Southern California punk band called the Bombpops. HEATHER —Welcome to the show, Poli. POLI —Thank you, I’m excited to be here. HEATHER —I've watched you grow up and, for the audience, I went to high school with Poli's mom and now Poli is a mom to Adler who is eight and in second grade. So, you’re a Punk Rock mom, tell us about the Bombpops. POLI —My best friend, Jen and I started playing when we were 16. We toured the world multiple times and put out multiple records all the while juggling being a mom. Adler has grown up in this lifestyle and has been on the road with us. HEATHER —Is your husband, Mike, in the band? POLI —He's not, actually, but we met at a show and he is the drummer of his band and also the drummer of our band at times. We play and write music together all the time. HEATHER —I've seen you and Mike playing together, like at your sister’s wedding. So tell us, how important is it to you to have art and creativity in the family and to model that for Adler? POLI —I think it's extremely important to let them be who they are. I was 21 when I had him and it was one of the hardest things ever because the band was super busy and still I knew I was going to make this work. Like whatever it takes. I didn't want Adler to think that because of him, his mom didn’t follow her dreams. We make it all work and for my son to see that is so amazing. I know he loves to see me on stage. He loves going on tour and we're an artsy family. We started a family YouTube channel called Odd Duck Family. HEATHER —Adler is overflowing with creativity and he’s an entertainer, too. You're already doing a YouTube show, but because you have so many layers and there's so much to your story and you're so open and transparent, I think you should write a book and start a podcast. What do you see yourself doing in the near future? POLI —I realize with the platform that I have it gives me an opportunity to share that I'm Type 1 diabetic, and that has helped so many people, I wrote one song about diabetes. I recently stopped drinking and I can help and motivate other people. HEATHER —I think you need to write a book because there are so many people who share the same story, but need someone to be a light for them. POLI —I've got quite a few good stories I need to jot down that will add up to a book. Visit TheBombPops.com to learn more about Poli and her band. To hear more of our interview with Poli, go to MomsTown365.com and tune into Episode 86. 6 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

barbie the welder rocks the trades Barbie Parsons, AKA \"Barbie the Welder,\" a renowned metal sculptor, recently joined us on MomsTown365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators. During the interview, she shares with us the moment and the movie that inspired her to start welding and how her passion for firing metal has evolved into skilled trades advocacy, writing and teaching others how to weld. EXCERPT from INTERVIEW with \"BARBIE the WELDER\" HEATHER MARY I stumbled upon Barbie the Welder How many times have you been burned? originally on LinkedIn, and she's on Instagram. She has tens-of-thousands of BARBIE THE WELDER followers and she is dominating in a very male-dominated industry. Barbie, wel- Oh! All the time. I have clothes that have holes in come to the show. We think Barbie the them from catching myself on fire on accident. Welder is like the coolest name ever! HEATHER BARBIE THE WELDER Tell us about your newest project. I wish I could claim that I came up with that, but it was given to me. BARBIE THE WELDER MARY I'm super excited and super scared about this because it is going to push me outside of my comfort zone, which is what I do on pur- No, go ahead. Take claim. Take all the claims in the world! Give pose as an artist. But my newest sculpture that I'm going to create us a little bit of your backstory. is a collaboration with a company called Rock the Trades. It's an initiative to honor skilled tradesmen and to bring awareness to the BARBIE THE WELDER skilled trades. I am officially Barbara Parsons, but I go by Barbie the Welder, I I was very blessed to be raised by my dad, who never treated me saw a movie about 14 years ago, Castaway, starring Tom Hanks. I differently for being a daughter. When he did the roof, I was hauling saw the woman welding these giant angel wings in it. And even shingles up the ladder. When he was doing drywall, I was doing though I'd never welded before in my life and I had zero artistic that and electrical. I was just taught to work with my hands and talent whatsoever, I knew it's what I needed to do with my life. deeply respect craftsmanship from a young age. It's so important I needed to be a metal sculptor. And since then I have pursued to my dad. And so it's just who I am at the core. that dream, that mission, that calling to be a sculptor. To hear more of our interview with Barbie the Welder, go to I went to school. I learned to weld, I got hired at a custom fab MomsTown365.com shop. I worked there for about five-and-a-half years, learning welding and fabrication, and then bought a house for the garage Visit BarbieTheWelder.com to see more of her work, check and started teaching myself how to weld art after work and on out her books on welding and how to “be deeply successful” the weekends. as an artist. September 1st, 2014 I quit my full-time job to go full-time as an artist and for the last six-and-a-half, almost seven, years now I have been living that dream of being a full-time metal sculptor. I wanted it so bad. I was willing to work as many hours as it took to learn the skills necessary. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 7

wPLoArkYoisf cthhieldren YOUNG children should be learning mostly through PLAY Hey mommas, let’s talk about this weird school MAGNETIC LETTERS on a cookie sheet or white board to practice year. What should school in your home, full-time or letter recognition and sorting. part-time, look like for our youngest learners? SALT TRAYS for tracing letters and numbers. Young children should be learning mostly through PLAY and older children through project-based, FINGER PAINTS for learning to make letters and numbers. hands-on learning. Did you know research shows that PLAY is critical to a child’s creativity and PUPPETS OR FLANNEL BOARDS to help children remember encourages divergent thinking? PLAY encourages young children to practice their vocabulary and and understand stories by retelling them. grammar skills when they speak and try to under- stand others. PLAY that involves physical activities BOOKS WITH MATCHING DRESS-UP CLOTHES for acting supports motor skills, strength and endurance, which benefits physical and mental health. PLAY out the book. helps children learn to solve problems. Pretend PLAY helps littles practice their future social roles PLAY DOUGH for making letters and numbers. and trying out various, different roles encourages empathy and understanding. PLAY is the work of TUBS FILLED WITH crayons, markers, colored pencils and tape children and gives them the opportunity to prac- tice what they are learning. for making individual books. Scientists have learned that it takes approximately SMALL TUBS FILLED WITH books that are themed. For exam- 400 repetitions to create new synapse in the brain, unless it’s done in PLAY, in which case it takes 10 ple, books all about friendships for February. to 20 repetitions. So break out those board games, puzzles, crafts and hands-on activities. Reading POEM BOX that you add an easy new poem to each month that activities that are PLAY-based for littles could include the following: littles can learn. DOT MARKERS for making your child’s name or for sight words. Whatever your situation is at this time, homeschool, regular school, virtual school, online school or something in between, be sure to make PLAY a part of your child’s day. KAREN FERNANDEZ 8 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

What do you want to be when you grow up? a chat with author erica oliver ERICA OLIVER It’s a question adults ask children and teens all the time; however, ERICA is it a fair question? I start with saying “Use your imagination and think of the many How are children supposed to answer when they can’t possibly things that you can be when you grow up.” Did you know that you're begin to know all of the possibilities and potential their future has in already being exposed to many professions daily when you go to the store for them? store or when you're watching TV. Even when you're looking out the window of a car, you are seeing the work of many different profes- It’s a question we tackled recently on MomsTown365 with author sions. For example, imagine, when you're in a supermarket, you see and mom of two, Erica Oliver. Erica wrote the book, “When I Grow all these things on the shelf. That item on the shelf didn't just start Up... Just Imagine.” The book is dedicated to showing our kids there on a shelf. It started with farmers and so many other people such as is a world of possibilities. manufacturers, distributors, advertising, all of that, went into putting that one item on the shelf. EXCERPT FROM OUR INTERVIEW: When you're in the car and you're riding down the street passing a MARY bridge, buildings, traffic lights, there are so many people, so many different professions went into producing those buildings, the lights, What can you tell us about the book, the content and how you the highways, the bridges. There are civil engineers and construction help moms with their kids? workers. There are so many things you can be, you just need to use your imagination. ERICA ERICA'S BOOK “When I Grow Up... Just Imagine,” can be found on Absolutely. So there are two things there's, you know, from the Amazon. Her tips are outlined in the book and the greatest takeaway parent's perspective and how you can actually help your child tap we had during the interview?: into their passions. Encourage children to think beyond the box of cereal, beyond the In the book, the way it's constructed is helping kids to open up and traffic light and even beyond the doctor. There are so many different explore their passions. I provide 14 “Bubble Tips,” and those tips are kinds of jobs and careers to dream about when you tap into your to help tap into those passions. imagination. HEATHER And, maybe, just maybe, us moms and dads might even discover what we want to be when we grow up! Can you give us an example of how you help kids imagine the dif- ferent jobs/careers that might be available to them? To hear Erica’s full interview and other great chats with mom creators, go to MomsTown365.com. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 9

how to embrace joy in the KITCHEN THE LAZY WAY Tina McDermott, an inspirational chef, speaker and weight loss coach, joined us on MomsTown365, The Daily 10-Minute Podcast for Mom Creators, Episode 92. Tina shares with us how NOT to take cooking so seriously. EXCERPT from our PODCAST INTERVIEW: HEATHER TINA Anytime someone wants to bring us a little joy and inspiration, we're It makes a huge difference and it tastes good. Healthy food tastes all about it. So have at it Lady, tell us a little bit about yourself. better than any other kind of food. TINA Here’s a trick about garlic: you take a small amount and rub the in- side of your salad bowl and then put the lettuce, vegetables and then I call myself the “lazy, inspirational chef” because I'm a hungry girl. put olive oil and some balsamic vinegar. Okay. I like to eat. I need to eat. I'm an athlete and I need to take shortcuts. I teach that you don't need to chop everything perfectly. MARY And, hey, if you don't have carrots use more celery, I'm lazy in that respect. And, I like to find inspiration in cooking because you don't What kind of recipes are you sharing with your corporate clients? have to follow a recipe — instead create your own wonder, use your own flavors. TINA MARY Today, we made a Paleo Irish Stew. I used radishes, parsnips, turnips and celeriac, instead of potatoes and grass-fed beef. I made a Sham- How do you find joy in the kitchen? rock Shake with coconut cream because coconut is antiviral, anti- bacterial, and antimicrobial. TINA MARY I find joy in the kitchen when I‘m cooking for other people — I'm Italian. My mom taught us to cook when we were little. Feeding Where do you share the recipes? people brings me joy. I enjoy teaching people how to cook simple, healthy, nutritious meals so they can live a life that's healthy, vibrant TINA and free from diets. I give the recipes and shopping list ahead of time because some of MARY them like to cook along. On what platform are you teaching people? HEATHER TINA Are they hiring you to stop yo-yo dieting? I have my own YouTube channel and I also teach via Zoom for cor- TINA porations when they hire me to teach their employees (so they have one less sick day). I talk about yo-yo dieting and how we don’t want to start that cycle because it ruins our metabolism. HEATHER HEATHER A lot of illness and sickness can be prevented in the kitchen. So where do you want us to have people go to find your YouTube videos and more about you? TINA To hear the entire interview go to MomsTown365.com and Yes, eat garlic. It boosts our immune system and so does ginger. click on Episode 92. MARY Visit TinaMcDermott.com/cooking show, which will take you to her YouTube channel. Do small amounts of garlic make a difference? 10 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

CHEESY BANANA bacon-broccoli quiche shake BETTER-FOR-YOU CHEESY BACON-BROCCOLI QUICHE FAMILY BREAKFASTS 1 package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli with cheese sauce Making sure your family members get a nutritious start 3 slices turkey bacon, chopped to the day is an important job. By focusing on a few 1/2 cup white mushrooms, sliced wholesome ingredients, such as real milk, simple and 1/2 cup green onions, chopped healthful dishes can quickly become family favorites. 1 frozen prepared pie shell (9 inches) 4 eggs Each day should begin with a balanced breakfast, so 1 cup fat free or low fat dairy milk when mornings get hectic and meal prepping isn’t 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded possible, you can still start strong with a convenient, iconic pairing – cereal and real milk. Enjoyable on their Preheat oven to 350 F. In microwave, heat broccoli and own, real milk and whole grain cereals are even better cheese sauce according to directions; set aside to cool slightly. together, delivering essential nutrients to help fuel the morning with the taste kids – and adults – can call a In nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook bacon, mush- daily favorite. rooms and green onions until bacon is cooked through and mushrooms are tender. Scatter bacon mixture in bottom of In fact, dairy milk is the top food source of calcium, pie shell; place pie shell on baking sheet. vitamin D and potassium, and cereal is the top food source of fiber – which are four nutrients of public In bowl, whisk eggs and milk then stir in broccoli and cheese health concern identified by the Dietary Guidelines sauce along with cheddar cheese. Pour custard into pie shell for Americans. This nutritious breakfast combination and bake 35-45 minutes, or until center is just set and knife costs only around 50 cents per serving – so parents can blade comes out clean when inserted into center of quiche. give their children nutrients they need without breaking the bank. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving. Another delicious breakfast option is a Cheesy Ba- BANANA SHAKE con-Broccoli Quiche, which offers 11 grams of protein per serving while introducing picky eaters to veggies in 1 1/2 cups fat free or low fat dairy milk an appetizing way. If a busy schedule calls for an on- 1 frozen medium banana, peeled and sliced the-go option, real milk provides essential nutrients 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) and can be blended into a Banana Breakfast Shake for 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) a tasty and portable way to start the day. cinnamon, for garnish (optional) Visit milklife.com for more health-focused, simple and delicious family meal inspiration. In blender, combine dairy milk, banana, vanilla extract and almond extract. Blend until smooth, about 20 seconds. Pour into two glasses and garnish with sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 11

top MEXICAN food trends SAVORY TRENDS CHORIZO RAGU W/CHEESY TOAST you’ll want to get in on 3 bolillo-style rolls or 1 long baguette, cut in half lengthwise One of the country’s top Hispanic food brands, 2 tablespoons olive oil Cacique, tapped culinary experts and chefs 1 yellow or white onion, chopped Aarón Sánchez, Bricia Lopez and Santiago 2-3 carrots, chopped ▶ 1⁄2 teaspoon salt Gomez to curate the third annual “What’s Next 6 cloves garlic, divided in Mexican Cuisine” trends forecast uncovering 8 ounces white or cremini mushrooms, chopped popular flavors, techniques and dishes to expect 2 tablespoons tomato paste in the coming year. 1 tablespoon dried oregano ▶ 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 1⁄4 pounds ground beef ▶ 1 9-oz pkg Cacique Pork Chorizo “One way we can honor the impact of Latin cul- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed or pureed tomatoes ture in America is through food,” Sánchez said. 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 9 tablespoons Cacique Crema Mexicana, plus extra for serving Top Mexican food trends for 2021 include: 1 1⁄2 cups crumbled Cacique Ranchero Queso Fresco ▶ homemade corn & flour tortillas Preheat oven to 400 F. ▶ dried chiles, beans & specialty cheeses In heavy-bottomed pot, warm olive oil over med heat. Add onions, ▶ homemade enchiladas carrots and salt then cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables ▶ rich sauces such as mole start to soften, 3-4 minutes. Mince 2 garlic cloves and add to pot ▶ unique salsas such as salsa macha with mushrooms; cook about 3 minutes. Use spoon to push vege- tables to edges of pan then add tomato paste, oregano, cumin to Find more trend-inspired recipes @ center of pan; saute until fragrant, 1-2 minutes. caciqueinc.com Increase heat to high, add beef and pork chorizo. Break meat up Chorizo Ragu w/Cheesy Toast courtesy of with spoon — don’t over-stir. When beef is no longer pink, pour in Chef Aarón Sánchez tomatoes, bring to simmer. Decrease heat to med-high, let sim- mer, stir occasionally. While ragu simmers, mash or whip butter with crema until smooth. Mince or finely grate remaining garlic cloves. Stir into crema mixture. Spread crema mixture evenly over entire bread surface. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco all over and place bread on rimmed bak- ing sheet, cheese side up. Toast 4-5 min until cheese is melted and bubbling. Finish under broiler 30-60 seconds for deeper browning, if desired. Cut bread into individual portions. After about 20 min- utes of simmering, ragu should thicken and flavors meld. Swirl in additional crema then serve ragu in bowls with cheesy toast or ladle over pieces of toast. 12 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

berry & coconut ice cream for MOM ICE CREAM VERY BERRY ICE CREAM made with love for MOM 2 pounds frozen berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries) 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 teaspoon salt Few relationships are as special as a bond between a mother CREAMY COCONUT ICE CREAM and her child. There is often so much laughter, so much love and so many good times spent around food and family over 2 pounds frozen berries the years. (such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries) From trying new foods together and cooking lessons at a 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk young age to time-honored family recipes, there are few 1 tablespoon honey things better than mom’s cooking. 1/2 teaspoon salt This delicious Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream mint leaves, for garnish (optional) was created with mothers in mind. It’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious, especially when it’s made with fresh ingredients TO MAKE BERRY ICE CREAM: In blender, pulse frozen berries, right at home for a perfect addition to Mother’s Day festiv- sweetened condensed milk, honey and salt until smooth, scrap- ities. ing down sides. This ice cream features the rich tartness of frozen fruit and Pour mixture into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 a sweet creaminess from the coconut milk. The two flavors hours, or until set. of ice cream create a unique combination that’s out-of-this- world delicious. TO MAKE COCONUT ICE CREAM: In large mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Enjoy a delightful treat with your mom as you make mem- In medium bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, coconut ories year after year. This time it may be mom’s turn to ask milk, salt and 1 cup whipped cream until combined. Add re- for the recipe. maining whipped cream and whisk until combined. Find sweet treats for mom go to culinary.net Pour into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 hours, or until set. Once properly chilled, scoop desired amount of each ice cream into bowls to serve. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 13

14 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 15

16 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

4-S- -R-a -nc-h-P-a-p-a-r-a zzi -- MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 17

DA MOLE REPORT Hey Boss, We have lots of Apple announced Monday that they are adding 5,000 em- Buyers, however ployees to its San Diego Workforce by 2026. That's a 500% this month's increase from its 2018 goal. Wowza! spotlight is... Sunny San Diego is adding more and more families that both can work from home and those leaving higher priced Motivated and well-quali ed buy- markets as its a deal here for homes. While the state may be er with a family of four. Willing losing population to other states some areas like here in San to go up to 1.6 million and prefer Diego are adding people. It’s a market like no other! a four-bedroom with a nice back- That's it for this week boss, the Mole is out! yard. Give Shay Realtors a call if you or anyone you might know is looking to sell. HAVE A LOCAL STORY TO SHARE? Email Da Mole at [email protected] BONUS - If we pick your hot tip for Da Mole report, you get a $20 gift card to Napizza! Ya boss! Sign up at GotHub.com GET DA MOLE REPORT IN YOUR INBOX EVERY WEEK HAVE A LOCAL STORY TO SHARE? Email Da Mole at [email protected] BONUS - If we pick your hot tip for Da Mole report, you get a $20 gift card to Napizza! Ya boss! 18 Sign up at GotHub.com MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 GET DA MOLE REPORT IN

YOUR 92127 COMMUNITY EXPERTS a global team at your service... Ray Shay Tina Wu Tu Nguyen Language: English Language: English, Mandarin & Language: English & Vietnamese Personal Cell: (858) 449 4970 Taiwanese Personal Cell: (619) 889 5777 Personal Cell: (760) 473 8649 Randy Koch Troy Shay eresa Whitty Language: English Language: English Language: English Personal Cell: (858) 945 0702 Personal Cell: (858) 449 0335 Personal Cell: (858) 740 0444 Katie Lai Kathy Choi Language: English & Vietnamese Language: English, Korean & Spanish Personal Cell: (858) 774 9060 Personal Cell: (760) 840 0086 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 19

This month’s MomsTown Minute comes from the just- Minute released book, “Your Fully Charged Life, A Radically Simple Approach to Having Endless Energy and Filling how changing one little word Every Day with Yay” by Meaghan B. Murphy. can make a Meaghan recently joined us on MomsTown365, The BIG impact Daily Podcast for Mom Creators. Meaghan is the editor-in-chief of Woman’s Day Magazine. She shared with us this simple, yet effective tip for feeling more opti- mistic and energized — and it takes no time at all to implement into your daily routine. She recommends a word swap. Instead of saying to yourself, “I have to do laundry today,” say “I get to do laundry today.” She shared with us the example of how that simple exchange of words, replacing \"have to\" with \"get to\" injects more gratitude into even the most mun- dane tasks. She says she is grateful that her son gets to play soccer and that she gets to watch her kids play. Getting to do their laundry is a gift. We found that exchanging a Have To Do list with a Get To Do list just simply feels better. Give it a try! Let us know how it works for you. Sign up for The MomsTown Newsletter at MomsTown.com and share with us your tips for how to lead a more energized life. one 1) JUST BREATHE Long, deep breaths calm the nervous system. Try focusing on your breath and how it Minute tips feels in your body for 1 minute. to take the stress 2) GO OUTSIDE out of your day Get some fresh air, look up at the sky, the trees and plants. Notice the colors, textures, temperature on your skin, and any scents. TRACY SHOMAN 3) PRACTICE GRATITUDE Think of 3 things you are grateful for, right now. Notice how you are feeling as you think about them. 4) STRETCH Try some neck rolls, extend your arms above your head or do any other stretches or yoga that feel good. They can refresh your body and clear your mind. This is especially effective when you are on the computer a lot. 5) USE ESSENTIAL OILS Smell is the only sense connected with the emotional control center that plays a role in mood, memory, and behavioral patterning. Place a drop or two of essential oils in your hand, on your wrists or chest. Rub the oil in and inhale deeply for 30—60 sec- onds. Pair with an affirmation such as “ I am calm and centered”. Lavender is the most recommended by scientific experts, but pick the scent you like. (Please follow product instructions and use the highest quality oils, otherwise you don't know what you are getting). 5) TAKE A MINI SELF-COMPASSION BREAK Visualize the stressful situation or problem. Feel the discomfort in your body. Try say- ing to yourself: “This is stressful” or “This is a moment of suffering.\" Now, try saying: “Suffering is a part of life.\" Offer yourself a gesture of comfort such as putting your hands on your heart or gently stroke your arms and saying, “May I be kind to myself” or “May I give myself what I need.\" (adapted from Kristin Neff, PhD) For more tips, go to TracyShoman.com 20 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

Spinrtiong wellness As seasons change, there’s often a great deal of shuffling and movement, including common allergy triggers like trees, pollen, mold spores, dust and dander along with pesky sinus pressure. Combined with changes in barometric pressure and weather patterns bouncing up and down, spring can be one big pain — literally. “This is the time of year when most of us are excited to see the KEEP LIQUIDS FLOWING change of seasons, but millions of allergy and sinus sufferers wel- come spring with trepidation,” Dr. Ian Smith, M.D. says. “Common More time outdoors in warmer weather can quickly lead to de- triggers such as trees, pollen, mold spores, dust and dander can hydration, especially if you’re working up a sweat. Drink plenty wreak havoc for many. Having a trusted multi-symptom reliever of of water to stay well-hydrated and keep your body operating in upper respiratory allergies, such as Mucinex Sinus-Max, is abso- top shape. Staying hydrated can also help keep mucus moving, lutely key in making the season more enjoyable for all suffering allowing you to ease through allergy or sinus problems. from sinus and congestion issues. With a reliable multi-symptom product stashed in your medicine cabinet, and the combination UPDATE YOUR MEDICINE CABINET of simple modifications like being mindful of your indoor climate, eating more fruits and veggies, and staying hydrated, can help A seasonal change is a good time to take stock of your med- limit sinus discomfort this season.” ical supplies and medications to ensure you have what you need for the months ahead. Discard any expired prescriptions Take steps this spring to ease the impact of sinus and or over-the-counter medicines and be sure restock common allergy problems and focus on your overall wellness for spring and summer essentials like bug bite ointments, sunburn a smooth transition with these tips: spray and multi-symptom products. CONTROL YOUR ALLERGY & SINUS TRIGGERS Now you can breathe easier! Knowing what flares your allergic reactions can help prevent dis- MOMSTOWN comfort. For many people, monitoring pollen counts and limiting THE MOM MEDIA COMPANY time outdoors on high-pollen days can help reduce reactions. You might also avoid hanging laundry outside, as pollen can stick to If you’d like to reach moms in: clothes and sheets as they dry, and ask for help with yardwork to limit your exposure. Carlsbad Del Mar FIND SOME PRESSURE RELEASE Encinitas San Marcos When nasal congestion or sinus pressure build, it can feel like a Solana Beach ton of bricks have landed on your head; however, you can find relief with products designed to help clear up your stuffy nose, We’d love to work with you! relieve headaches and thin and loosen excess mucus. Often, if you’re experiencing sinus problems, you’re dealing with multiple symptoms. From congestion to headaches and sinus pressure, an over-the-counter medicine can break up your sinus symptoms. MANAGE YOUR INDOOR CLIMATE Even when you start spending more time outdoors, it’s important Reach out to Mary & Heather to keep close tabs on the quality of the air inside your home. If Email: [email protected] you’re prone to allergy flare-ups or sinus infections, manage the humidity level by using a humidifier or dehumidifier. If outdoor al- Be sure to ask about the custom podcast lergens are a concern, avoid opening windows and doors, and rely package for MomsTown365, The Daily Podcast on air conditioning on warmer days. Also be sure to change filters for Mom Creators regularly and use an air purifier for added protection. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 21

Gift Giving Gig TELL US ABOUT YOU! MOMS GO CORPORATE Rewind 2 years ago . . . we had no idea what we were getting into, but we agreed to give it a try together. We’ve pushed each Friends, mothers, biz partners other, collaborated and always valued each other’s opinions. We’ve dreamed and set goals larger than we ever imagined. Lea Disney & Jodi Queen . . . two besties with We’ve celebrated our achievements, no matter how small. a background in design and a passion for We‘ve never stopped learning and growing and we continue empowering women & supporting entrepreneurs to empower each other even when we make mistakes. around the world We count on each other for everything and never let each other lea down. We believe we’re ONE . . . that’s what business besties do. DISNEY HOW DID YOU GET STARTED CURATING CORPORATE PRODUCTS? jodi In 2018, we started Matik Shop, a specialty retailer that sourced QUEEN and manufactured gifts that set out to inspire, empower and support fellow females. After countless requests to take over our customers’ gifting woes, we knew there was a bigger opportunity brewing out there. After testing the waters with a handful of clients from both our extensive corporate and agency experience, we launched Matik Gifts for Holiday 2020. HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA TO CREATE YOUR BUSINESS? Call it fate. Call it the perfect collision of timing, talent and just listening. The requests for advice and help just sort of snowballed. It turns out everyone is burned out with giving mindless gifts and gift cards. But, we’re all still extremely grateful and need a way to show it. WHAT HAS BEEN THE RESPONSE TO YOUR BUSINESS? Honestly, we couldn’t have anticipated how well our business has been received. When your customers, like a Google executive, actually gets teary-eyed over what you’ve created, you know you’re building something beautiful. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST THING TO COME FROM YOUR BUSINESS? Gratitude begets gratitude! Hearing how happy our customers have been with our work and, more importantly, how happy their clients and team members have been with our work has been off-the-charts gratifying for us! WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME IN CREATING YOUR BUSINESS? Every day brings new obstacles and surprises, but we’d have to say that adding new roles, systems and processes has been the biggest challenge. If we don’t keep our customers delighted while keeping our team fulfilled, we know we’ve got to step up our game. WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU OFFER TO OTHER MOMS WHO ARE THINKING ABOUT TURNING THEIR CREATIVITY INTO A BUSINESS? Be brave, stay brave, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. We’ve worked through some of the biggest challenges simply from talking about them with friends. You’ll be surprised at who or how someone can help. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE READERS TO DO? VISIT YOUR WEBSITE? CONTACT YOU? JUST LET US KNOW. Visit our website at www.MatikShop.com to learn more. Then, send us a note at [email protected] with your needs and how we can help. We can’t wait to hear from you! 22 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

My super power patches When my children were toddlers and babies, they tended to PAULA SHAW get a lot of ear infections and seemed to be on a constant diet of Amoxicillin. Anybody relate? Even in the '80s we knew that If I have piqued your interest and you’d like to learn this couldn’t be a good thing. I wanted to find ways of keeping more, please feel free to reach out to me on my Paula my children healthy that were natural and drug-free. I felt very Shaw Facebook page, at [email protected] or fortunate to find a pediatrician who leaned in the direction of through my website: www.PaulaShaw.com Homeopathic Medicine, Herbs and Natural Remedies. The If you’d like to explore on your own and read the excellent health my children have today is largely due to find- clinical studies on every one of the patches, you ing this doctor and getting them untethered from a constant can go to: www.LifeWave.com/safehealth stream of antibiotics. Paula Shaw CADC, DCEP Although many years have gone by and my children are in Life Transitions Expert their 30s, we still prefer using natural methods as our first line Keynote Speaker, Author of defense. For this reason and many others, I had an immedi- W: PaulaShaw.com ate interest in the LifeWave Phototherapy Patches when they P: 626-864-0756 first came into my experience. F: PaulaShaw YT: PaulaShawCounseling I am a founding member of the Association of Comprehensive L: PaulaShawCounseling Energy Psychology, so you can accurately assume that I have a Host: Change It Up Radio strong interest in helping and healing through the use of Light and Energy. Why wouldn’t I? It’s natural and drug-free. So, when the LifeWave Phototherapy Patches, which enhance the quality of health and life without drugs and chemicals, came into my sphere of awareness, it wasn’t hard to say, “Yes!” I first experienced the Ice Wave patches when a friend offered me a sample to try on my lower back which, at that moment, was in a lot of pain. In all honesty, I put them on to appease her, but within minutes the pain was actually gone! Naturally I said “Whoa, what’s in those patches?” When she explained that there was nothing in them but organic crystals, pro- grammed to perform a specific function through the process of photo biomodulation — I was hooked. I had to learn more. And when I did, I wanted those patches to become part of my life. LifeWave creates patches that activate Stem Cell production, that increase energy, that alleviate pain, that increase Glutathi- one and Carnosine production, as well as those that decrease inflammation, improve mood and sleep and curb appetite. This arsenal has transformed my health and my appearance and also that of my parents in their 90s, my sister with Lupus and my children. Even the family dog has benefitted from these remarkable patches. I have never been trained in sales and think of myself as a healer and a teacher rather than a sales specialist; however, I defy anyone to experience what I have with the LifeWave patches and not find yourself telling the world about them. It really isn’t selling; it’s sharing your truth. Sharing that truth has helped a lot of people I care about and that feels really good. These patches allow me the opportunity to be the Healer and Teacher that I am and to make life better for others. I can’t ask for more than that. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 23

She got the JOB! job-seeking tips from a pandemic parent We recently had the pleasure of meeting a new mom, Brooke Gasaway. Brooke calls herself a Pandemic Parent, giving birth to her first baby during the Pandemic. Brooke also fights multiple sclerosis and while she was five months pregnant, found herself unemployed. Her transparency about being an out-of-work mom caught the attention of CNN, The Mom Project, and MomsTown. BROOKE GASAWAY EXCERPT FROM OUR INTERVIEW WITH BROOKE pandemic and potentially had lost their job. At that same time, they ON THE PODCAST, MOMSTOWN365: were looking for mothers to share their story on a major news out- let. Little did I know that it was CNN who was doing a whole story HEATHER on this unfortunate truth of the millions of women who are unem- ployed at the moment and what does it look like moving forward? Tell us a little bit, tell us what's been happening in your world lately? Well, and I think that The Mom Project is doing amazing work, first of all, and that keeping moms in the workforce and recognizing the BROOKE talents that moms bring, even if there's a resume gap, you're not necessarily going to be one of those older moms with a resume Well, it's been a whirlwind of a year. This time last year, I was just gap or a mom who's maybe exited for whatever reasons, whether about to get laid off from my job . . . I was five months pregnant. to stay home and raise kids or for other reasons why she couldn't Then I had my first child, a baby boy — Luciano — in July of 2020. work. But when you have a resume gap, it can be very daunting and hard on your ego when you're reentering the workforce to put HEATHER out, you know, to kind of sell yourself. To have a baby during normal times is one thing, but to have a MARY baby when there's all kinds of different things happening in the world, it must've been very stressful, stressful and unnerving. So what kind of tips do you give to other moms who are looking to re-enter the workforce? BROOKE BROOKE Absolutely. No one knows how to prepare for a pandemic and especially no one knows how to prepare for a baby during a Well, the number one thing to remember is you do not have to tell pandemic. And then on top of it, you know, not being able to have your potential employer why you were out (of a job). That's only if family visits, not being able to just share this experience with you feel obliged or you feel that that's part of your story you want our family and, and our son was in the NICU for 10 days so that, to share. Then you can say, look, you know, I had a child or I took during COVID, made it very complicated. some time for this or that, or let's face it: A global pandemic hap- pened. I got laid off. That was my story. I got laid off and then I had Us moms, however, we can be pretty resilient, can't we? And so a baby and now I'm trying to get back to work. It took me several can the babies. And so can husbands, actually. months of saying that; even working with coaches and mentors that said millions of people are going through this and it's okay to MARY say that. Tell us about the CNN interview. How did you catch the attention During out interview, Brooke shares with us more tips for moms of CNN? looking for work, including the value of sharing her story. BROOKE You can hear her interview by going to MomsTown365 and click- ing on Episode 85. The last three or four months, I've really been buckling down on my job search. And I've been doing that primarily through net- And, finally, we’re happy to announce: working and like Heather, like you said, we met on LinkedIn and that's been my primary channel for meeting new people in the “She Got the Job!” Brooke accepted a full-time position with world. And one thing led to another and The Mom Project posted Accenture. Congratulations, Brooke! that they were looking for mothers who had a child during the 24 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

KICKSTART YOUR Resume Revamp in the right direction I see you. Sitting at your computer. Bouncing between your resume and the job post. Feeling a blend of ambition, excitement, dread and confu- sion. I’m a resume writer, and I often feel the same way in the beginning. Here are a few sure-fire ways to start moving your resume in the right direction: CLEAN UP YOUR FORMAT EMILY STARK Just like cleaning up a messy junk drawer, sliding in a few organizing trays can be a gamechanger. A clean format works in the same fashion. Start your resume with a clear heading including your name in bold followed by your phone, email, city/state and customized LinkedIn profile URL. Next a 4-5 sentence, laser-focused career summary, and bulleted, 2-column skills list. All of these should closely replicate the needs shared in the job post of the position to which you plan to apply. Lastly, your experience section with a consolidated, bulleted summary of your CUT IT DOWN TO GET CONCISE experiences and accomplishments aligned with your next position. Close it out with your Education and Community/Volunteer experiences. In each line of your resume, it’s helpful to ask yourself: Would my next boss care about this? If the answer is NO then leave it out. Most recruiters receive Each section goes within its own tray so give it a clean heading. Ensure these hundreds of applicants — they don’t have time to read irrelevant information. headings’ font, size, and page placement are consistent throughout your resume document. One quick way to sift down your lengthy content is to abbreviate information and move it to your Skills section; bulleted columns of your expertise, certi- DITCH YOUR 'PAST JOBS' DESCRIPTIONS fications, or well-known platforms you’ve utilized lives between your Career Summary and Experience sections. Check the job descriptions Requirements Most of the client resumes I receive have the same faux pas — copy & paste to build out this list. of the job description from their past roles. From that angle, you’re likely to get passed over by a hiring manager. The reasoning can be summed up by an Your resume isn’t a laundry list; it is a tailored summary of meaningful work to Elon Musk quote: “I don’t care what past positions you’ve had. I care about the show you are a qualified candidate bringing positive change to the role. problems you’ve solved.” Set yourself apart by leading with accomplishments. A prework exercise to Now turn on your favorite song and grab a fresh cup of coffee, Mama. You’ve tackle this update is answering: What career highlights will benefit the work got a resume to tackle! of my upcoming role? Take this question and journal about 7-8 stories that answer it. You will take about 3-5 to add throughout your career summary and For more information visit Marketable-Mama.com experience bullets. The others can be used in an interview or cover letter. MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 25

how to simplify your path toPROFITS If you're ready to get into the mindset of making money, MomsTown to the LESLIE HASSLER rescue! We get to interview some of the best experts around. This month is no exception. Joining us on MomsTown365, The Daily Podcast Showcasing Mom Creators, we sat down with Leslie Hassler, the founder of Your Biz Rules(dot) com. Leslie and her team “help smart women business owners create strategic, scalable growth that is profitable and sustainable. Here’s an excerpt from our interview with Leslie. EXCERPT FROM OUR INTERVIEW WITH LESLIE ON ON THE TOPIC OF ORGANIZING OUR TO-DO LIST . . . THE PODCAST, MOMSTOWN365: MARY HEATHER How do we do that? How do we organize our tasks and feel pro- We're talking about how to scale and profit from your small busi- ductive? ness and answering the question all business owners struggle with — where to focus first, the founder of your biz rules. LESLIE So, tell us a little bit about you and about YourBizRules.com I think you first need to realize that probably 50 to 60% of the things on your to-do list, aren't things that move the needle. They LESLIE are distractions. Ultimately, they're not the things that actually drive the business forward. Get very clear on what activities you do that I'm like many of your listeners, I’m a mom and an entrepreneur. I actually drive the business forward and work on those first. I do actually have been an entrepreneur for 14 years and really came believe we spend a lot of time being busy, but not always being into it to be able to spend more time with my kids, but also to do productive. what I love to do. Next — Don’t over-complicate it. For example, your logo doesn't What I love about Your Biz Rules is we get to work with wom- have to be perfect. People don't buy logos. They buy you. Be really en-owned, service-based businesses. We help them grow and confident in who you are and what you're trying to do — be trans- scale their business in a way that's profitable and sustainable. parent and just go out and get a client. You don't have to have all the bells and whistles to actually be able to serve somebody. MARY HEATHER How did you come into doing this kind of consulting work? So what have been some of the greatest successes that you've LESLIE seen in working with your clients? I actually ran another business for seven years, successfully, but LESLIE it didn't give me that work/life balance that I was really looking for. I just reached the point in time in my business to where I was You know, we're always able to get good growth and good kind of asking, ”Okay, God, if this is not what I am meant to do, what is?” scaling, but ultimately it's the ability to take a vacation! (That question) brought me into consulting and coaching. I will say it was the scariest move ever, even scarier than the first busi- To learn more about the services offered by Leslie and her team at ness, but it's my playground. It's where I'm meant to be. It's where YourBizRules.com, head on over to her website and be sure to tune I do my best work. in to hear more of our interview with Leslie: MomsTown365.com, Episode 89 — How to Simplify the Path to Profits 26 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

Rid your cans of noxious odors, germs, bacteria & rotting waste Dave cleaned my trash cans and I could Environmentally friendly not believe the difference. They are so cleaning process collects all used water clean they actually sparkle! — Mary G on the truck for sanitary disposal, keeping contaminants out of storm drains Nasty trash can? We don't just clean IT We SanEtizeIT (760) 707-9963 | SanEtizeIT.com MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 27

RETRACTABLE SCREEN DOORS MOTORIZED AWNINGS & SCREENS LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY (760)521-3564 VANISHINGSCREENS.COM Quality Service ! ASK US ABOUT 760-521-3564 760-521-3564 WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES 11/09/21 11/09/21 WINDOW SCREEN REPAIR MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 28

Wabi-Sabi DASHA HERVEY a positive influence on design The Prop Dispensary by Dasha Hervey Sea and Pine Interior Design There’s a quote from Zen to Zany that I like: “When the Japanese mend broken objects, they fill them in with gold. They believe that when something’s suffered damage and has a history, it becomes more beautiful. It’s time we rethink our philosophy on aging.” And I’d like to add ~ aging of all things. The positive characteristics represent liberation from a material world and transcendence to a simpler life. The philosophy itself, however, warns that genuine understanding cannot be achieved through words or language, so accepting Wabi-Sabi on nonver- bal terms may be the most appropriate approach. It’s the material representation of Zen Buddhism. The idea is that being surrounded by natural, changing, unique objects help us connect to our real world and escape potentially stressful dis- tractions. In a high-tech world where people are living at a frenetic pace and striving for perfection on impossible timelines, Wabi-Sabi design might be the needed antidote to de-stress ourselves in the home. It’s a gentle, naturalistic style that is forgiving of imper- fections and embraces design elements that create a calm and minimal environment. Some characteristics of the Wabi-Sabi aesthetic include asym- metry, roughness, simplicity, modesty, intimacy, and appreciation of the ingenious integrity of natural objects and processes. It’s where less is more, imperfect is perfect, simple is better and the raw human form or otherwise is embraced. Wabi-Sabi design seems so perfectly appropriate for our current living pattern. Being mindful and intentional in how we fill a space can bring a sense of calm and peace into our lives, especially for us mothers who are juggling so much. \"Simplicity reveals the pure beauty of life.\" Debasish Mridha Design Trip Beauty Home Decor MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021 29

12 April, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 4 The women of Allegiance Heating, Air & Solar. LOCAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS: A CONVERSATION WITH SARAH WOOD ALLEGIANCE HEATING, AIR & SOLAR me. There has been an evolution of what my By Molly Galliher Sarah Wood job entails. First, it was everything: the office operations, HR, hiring manager, scheduling, In the face of great challenges, it is easy to get positive attitude, incredible work ethic, and dispatching, whatever it was, I did it all. As we’ve caught up in the negative side of things and let amazing adaptability, Sarah is an inspiration to evolved, my job is to create positions and put them overwhelm you. This line of thinking is those looking to start their own businesses. the right people in them to help the company completely foreign to Sarah Wood. Originally Q: Tell us a little bit about Allegiance HVAC. What do grow. I find people smarter than me to do tasks involved in the escrow business, Sarah had a you do?  more efficiently. As an owner, I find employees blossoming career in the early 2000s. In 2008, and handle a lot of marketing and networking she gave birth to her second daughter and, while A: We work anywhere from single-family while acting as the face of the company. Before enjoying maternity leave with her new baby, the homes to light commercial buildings, apartment COVID, much of my job was sitting on boards, market crashed. After returning to work, every- buildings, townhomes, property management. running associations, attending networking thing was quiet: nothing seemed maintainable. We are a full-service HVAC company that events, creating marketing content, and manag- Everything was up in the air. includes service, repair, installation, and re- ing the company. placement of your heating and air conditioning Q: Can you talk about your work as part of the Plumb- Not long after, Sarah’s father suddenly passed, system. Other services we offer include indoor ing Heating and Cooling Contractors Association leaving behind Allegiance Heating and Air Con- air quality testing, attic insulation, cleaning air (PHCC) of San Diego? ditioning Inc., his one-man home-based business ducts, cleaning chimneys, janitorial services, and that he had founded in 1988. With little room solar work. This is all-encompassing of what the A: The PHCC is nationwide. There is a state to grow in escrow and no experience in HVAC, company offers. chapter in Sacramento, and then there are local Sarah made a risky decision. Instead of attempt- Q: What is your typical workday like? chapters. These local chapters consist of contrac- ing to continue in the escrow business during tors from these two industries and are where the recession, she made the leap to continue A: As an owner, my job has changed dramat- best practices and standards are set. There is also her father’s legacy. Utilizing her office manage- ically over the twelve years I’ve been running an academy side to this group where around ment skills and ability to make connections, this company. When we started, it was just 140 students go through an apprenticeship to Sarah hired a technician and began to work on become plumbers and heating and air condi- expanding her father’s business. Twelve years tioning technicians. I’ve sat on the board for the later, Allegiance Heating and Air Conditioning last five years. I was president two years in a row Inc. now employs a team of 17 and has vastly and currently sit on the board as past president. expanded its operations. Undoubtedly, Sarah has I now act as a director or advisor. When I was continued her father’s legacy and made her own transitioning and working on growing Alle- mark on the community. giance, I was looking to put myself around other contractors that have been in my position. I Sarah didn’t stop there. After joining multiple joined the PHCC to pick the brains of contrac- trade associations, she obtained her contrac- tors that have gone through the same thing. tor’s license and made a name for herself in Now I help make decisions over there. the trades. Sarah has continued to enrich the Q: What is the Santee Young Professionals Group? San Diego community through her work as the former president of the Plumbing, Heating, and A: About three years ago, I founded the Air Conditioning Association of San Diego and Santee Young Professionals group with the as the founder of the Santee Young Profession- Santee Chamber of Commerce. It allows young als group. She is one of the few female leaders entrepreneurs to come in and see the benefits of within the trade industry and is highly respect- in-person business to business networking and ed within the community. Crediting her motiva- community involvement while getting to learn tion to her two young daughters, she has paved about what the chamber does. Community the way for women in the trades and regularly outreach is great for young entrepreneurs and works to encourage other women to join these male-dominated spaces without fear. With her LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com /LocalUmbrellaMedia @LocalUmbrellaMedia ADVERTISE | [email protected] 30 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021

VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 4 | April, 2021 13 businesses as people look to see what they are was scary and exciting, but I’ve never done any- riage, pre-home and it’s just great to see them doing for the community. thing that was a little scary and come to regret grow and transition. I like providing these jobs Q: What is it like to be a woman in such a male-domi- it, especially since I started this business. In fact, and putting people in positions where they can nated field? if it isn’t a little scary, it probably isn’t worth it. succeed. Personal growth like this is huge for Q: You just recently purchased a second business; me, especially with how tough it is in California. A: Surprisingly, the men I’ve interacted with can you talk about that? Q: What is the best part about working in the San have been some of the most welcoming peo- Diego community? ple I’ve encountered. No matter what, you’re A: It’s called Absolute Duct and Chimney Ser- going to have people that don’t want to see vices. My husband joined after retiring from the A: Having a heating and air conditioning you succeed whether female or male, but those union. Good friends of mine were selling their company in San Diego is very hard. The weather I’ve encountered have been some of my biggest business and we decided to take it over. There’s here is perfect all the time so it’s kind of fun to cheerleaders. I don’t really have any negative much less overhead. Heating and air condi- play that game and it’s interesting to see how things to say about being in a male-dominated tioning is a very skilled trade in comparison so many people use their heating and air condi- industry as I’ve gotten a lot of support. I have this just made sense. It was an opportunity to tioning all the time regardless of the perfect nothing but positive experiences. expand Allegiance even further. weather. I’m a native. I’m from San Diego and Q: Has your gender impacted how you interact with Q: What is your greatest source of motivation? having a business out here and being able to clients? prosper and provide jobs is great. I’ve lived in A: I know this is a cliché, but of course, family. Santee my whole life and in my position, I get A: Being a female-owned business is not a bad I have two daughters and I like to show them to be involved in a lot of community outreach thing these days. Sometimes people call specif- I can succeed in this predominantly male field. and get to give back to the community as a ically because we are a female-owned business. Along with this, I hope my father is proud to see whole. In a service-based business like this, the majority how his business has grown from one man to of workers that come into your home are men. now seventeen employees. Thank you Sarah Wood for sharing your story Women who are home alone may have some Q: What part of your job do you enjoy the most? and inspiring our readers. Visit https://alle- doubt or feel uncomfortable because of this gianceheatingandairsd.com/ or call (619) 449- but, as a female-owned business, we can pro- A: I enjoy seeing the personal growth of my 2469 for more information. vide these clients with a sense of security that employees. I’ve known a lot of them pre-mar- other companies don’t. The people I send to my clients’ homes are people I would invite into my own home. I have a different perspective as a female in this industry, and I think people appreciate that. These days, people are cheering more for me than against me. Q: Do you have any advice for other women looking to get into the field? A: Involve yourself. Join a local member association, become an active member in your community, make your face and name known, set a better standard. It’s all about surrounding yourself with the right people. That is why I joined local networking groups, chambers, and the contractors’ group. I don’t think many wom- en grow up thinking they’ll own a contracting company one day. Typically, they fall into it. My father started this company. I took it over after he passed away and have grown it from there. I can’t stress to women enough: there is room in this industry. Other women have paved the way and it’s much more open than one might think. If there is anyone who wants to be a part of this industry, I’m a great resource because I have ac- cess to schooling and can point you in the right direction. Q: What was it like to pivot from a career in escrow to a career in the trades? A: It was scary. When I worked in real estate in the early 2000s, the market was crazy. I was working 60 hours a week. In 2008, I was on maternity leave after having my daughter when the market crashed. When I went back, it was so quiet and had become something I couldn’t see maintaining long-term. My father passed the following year and I didn’t have much time to think. I called some of his clients and tried to see if I could keep his business alive and his legacy going instead of going back to escrow. It LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com /LocalUmbrellaMedia @LocalUmbrellaMedia ADVERTISE | [email protected] 31 MOMSTOWN • MAY 2021