ProfNet Experts Available on New Year's Resolutions, Nelson Mandela, More
Also in This Edition: Jobs for Writers and Media Industry Blog Posts
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Below are experts from the ProfNet network that are available to discuss timely issues in your coverage area. If you are interested in interviewing any of the experts, please contact them via the contact information at the end of the listing. To receive these updates by email, send a note to [email protected] with the industries you cover, and we'll add you to the appropriate edition.
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EXPERT ALERTS
- Kidney Stones Could Predict Serious Health Problems
- Nelson Mandela: The Politician and Leader
- Nelson Mandela's Life and Legacy
EXPERT ROUNDUP
- New Year's Resolutions
MEDIA JOBS
- Reporter – Wall Street Journal (PA)
- Multimedia Editor – The Ottawa Herald (KS)
- Online Editor – Outside Magazine (NM)
OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES
- Media 411: Interns Who Sue
- Blog Notes: Theme Parks, Food & Green Living Blogs
- The Q&A Team: How to Never Run Out of Blog Post Ideas
EXPERT ALERTS:
Kidney Stones Could Predict Serious Health Problems
Dr. David Goldfarb
Nephrologist/Kidney Stone Expert
New York Harbor VA Medical Center and NYU School of Medicine
"Recent studies indicate that kidney stones could be a risk factor for more serious health problems. This year, kidney stones were linked to the development of coronary heart disease in women. We don't think that kidney stones are the cause of coronary heart disease, but it is likely that stones share risk factors with CHD, just like they do with diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and other conditions."
Dr. Goldfarb is available to discuss why kidney stones might portend future health problems. Due to their recent connections to chronic and acute health conditions, many professionals are urging patients and physicians to view kidney stones as an early health warning sign. According to the National Kidney Foundation, the incidence of kidney stones in the U.S. has increased rapidly over the past 30 years. In the late 1970s, less than 4 percent of the population reported kidney stones. It is now estimated that 10 percent of all men will experience kidney stones, while 7 percent of women will develop kidney stones.
Website: http://www.kidney.org
Media Contact: Sean Roach, [email protected]
Nelson Mandela: The Politician and Leader
Jeremy Ball
History Professor
Dickinson College
"Mandela led by example. In his early life he campaigned and organized to end apartheid, after the opposition was banned in 1960 he spearheaded Umkhonto we Sizwe ('Spear of the Nation') to carry out a campaign of limited sabotage against the government. After he was arrested and sent to prison for life in 1963, he became a symbol of apartheid's injustice. After his release from prison in 1990, he negotiated with the apartheid government for three years to create a democratic constitution for South Africa that provides remarkable protection for human rights. Again, he set the example for tough negotiating and also forgiveness and grace towards those who had perpetuated apartheid. His example continues to inspire."
After being inspired by Nelson Mandela -- as were so many -- Ball decided to work in South Africa after graduating from Boston College in 1994. His knowledge of Mandela, the politician and leader, is based on his two years spent working in the South African parliament (1994-96), the first two years of Mandela's presidency under South Africa's democratic constitution. He specializes in courses on apartheid, African political and ecological history and human rights.
Media Contact: Jeremy Ball, [email protected] or [email protected]
Nelson Mandela's Life and Legacy
Dr. Thomas McClendon
Professor of History
Southwestern University
"Nelson Mandela was one of the most iconic and transformational figures of the latter half of the 20th century. Ordinary people make history in their daily actions and collective struggles, but some leaders come to shape and symbolize the movements ordinary people carry out. Mandela was one of those leaders as the face of the anti-apartheid struggle and the key leader of the African National Congress (ANC) during the transformation from apartheid to a new South Africa."
Dr. McClendon specializes in the history of South Africa and the anti-apartheid movement. He is the co-editor of the forthcoming book "The South Africa Reader: History, Culture, Politics" which will be published this month by Duke University Press. He is available for interviews about Mandela and his legacy.
ProfNet Connect Profile: http://www.profnetconnect.com/mclendon
Media Contact: Ellen Davis, [email protected]
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EXPERT ROUNDUP: New Year's Resolutions
Following are experts who are available for quotes on various aspects of New Year's resolutions, including general tips for making and sticking to resolutions, whether they are related to lifestyle, health and fitness, personal finance, or business and workplace.
If you need additional experts, you can also submit a query, and can filter your request by institution type and geographic location to get the most targeted responses. The best part? It's free! Just fill out the query form to get started.
BEHAVIOR
James V. O'Connor
Cuss Control Academy
O'Connor is available to discuss how to reduce the use of profanity: "Our country is in need of practical suggestions for breaking the swearing habit that has ordinary citizens contributing to the decline of civility and good manners. Think positively and you'll swear less. Whether you're looking for a new job, a sexy relationship, or a better life, hold your tongue, change your attitude, and you will become a much better person."
O'Connor has been featured on "Oprah," "The View," CNN, "The Early Show," "Today," CBS Sunday Morning, "ABC World News Tonight," and more than 300 other TV shows. He has been on 800 radio shows and has had articles about him in Time, USA Today, Reader's Digest, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and 750 other publications.
Website: http://www.cusscontrol.com
Media Contact: Lynda O'Connor, [email protected]
Joseph Baschnagel
Assistant Professor of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts
Rochester Institute of Technology
Baschnagel is an expert in smoking behavior, nicotine addiction, behavior modification, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attentional and emotional processing in borderline personality disorder populations. He has taught courses in psychophysiology, psychopharmacology, biological basis of mental disorders, and brain and behavior. He offers the following tips to setting -- and keeping -- New Year's resolutions: 1) Set reasonable goals and sub-goals. Many people have difficulty sticking to their goals because they set goals that are unrealistic or too general, Baschnagel explains. "If the goals seem a bit ambitious, break them down into manageable sub-goals that are easier to accomplish." 2) Create a plan. "The plan is a set of more sub-goals or actions that help you reach your goal. So, in order to stick with losing five pounds a month, for example, you might make plans to join a gym in January and put into your planner to go to the gym at least three times a week. Be even more specific, such as planning out the workout that you'll do each time you visit the gym. Having a plan makes it easier to stick with your goal because you reduce the chances you will procrastinate." 3) Monitor your progress. Baschnagel believes that keeping track of your progress is important because it allows you to see how much progress you've made toward your goal. 4) Reward yourself. According to Baschnagel, many people fail to reward themselves for progress, or think they should reward themselves only when they reach the end goal. "Rewarding yourself for your efforts is important. The behavior you are trying to change likely is rewarding. To keep your motivation up when changing behavior, you need to make sure that the new, healthy behaviors are rewarded sooner and regularly. Pick activities that are rewarding by themselves or by adding rewards." 5) Get friends and family involved in your process of meeting your goals. Letting others know of your goal increases your motivation by adding a little social pressure onto yourself, he explains. "Friends and family can also be supportive by encouraging you or reminding you of your progress. They can even join in if they have similar goals."
Media Contact: Vienna McGrain, [email protected]
Dr. Bradley Nelson
Holistic Physician
Dr. Nelson, author of the best-selling book "The Emotion Code," can explain how to get rid of unresolved "trapped" emotions that lead to weight gain and other health problems: "If your overall goal is to lose 20 pounds, what kind of a plan do you need in order to actually make it happen? Set a completion date. Break it up into smaller milestones by month, week and day. If you get discouraged along the way, it could be due to emotional baggage. Resolve to not let your trapped emotions get in your way in 2014."
Dr. Nelson can also explain or demonstrate live on the air how releasing emotions can help people achieve their weight-loss goals, including: how to find the physical and emotional causes for overeating (identify triggers); how to use a journal/talk to understand you triggers; the "Sway Test," a simple method to discover answers in your subconscious; the invisible link between a sad heart and gaining weight; how you could be protecting yourself by being overweight; the five secrets you need to know in order to lose stubborn fat.
Dr. Nelson has lectured internationally on the natural healing of chronic illness and, as a holistic chiropractic physician, successfully treated patients from across the U.S. and Canada.
Website: http://www.drbradleynelson.com
Press Kit: http://www.drbradleynelson.presskit247.com
Media Contact: Michelle Tennant Nicholson, [email protected]
Dr. Robert Epstein
Professor of Psychology, University of the South Pacific
Senior Research Psychologist, American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology
"Ambitious New Year's resolutions set you up for failure, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't make them. Yes, saying, 'I'm going to increase my income this year by at least a million dollars' can lead to disappointment, but it can also motivate you to stretch in new directions. The alternative is to make only vague or safe resolutions, such as 'I'm going to lose some weight,' or 'I'm going to put in more work hours.' If you aim low, you get low. The very best resolutions are ambitious, yet achievable -- with lots of effort!"
Epstein is the former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today magazine; has published 15 books, including "Self-Help Without the Hype"; and is the developer of a number of widely used online tests, including DoYouNeedTherapy.com, HowAssertiveAreYou.com and MyParentingSkills.com.
Media Contact: Laura Craig, [email protected]
John McGrail, Ph.D.
Clinical Hypnotherapist
A clinical hypnotherapist and self-improvement expert based in Los Angeles, McGrail is the author of the new book, "The Synthesis Effect: Your Direct Path to Personal Power and Transformation" (Career Press). He has also published numerous articles on behavior modification and self-empowerment, and his writing and expertise have been featured in Cosmopolitan, Redbook, Ladies' Home Journal, First for Women, Self, Real Simple, BrainWorld, Chicago Tribune, New York Daily News, WebMD, and many more. He also frequently appears as an expert guest on local, national, and international radio and television -- WGN, TLC, CBS, ABC, BBC, MTV, etc.
Here is his quick take on the subject of New Year's resolutions: 1) "Resolutions must be personal and not for someone else. You must consciously want to make the change and be willing to commit yourself to the process; success with resolutions (all personal change) is always about process. We tend to think in terms of instant gratification and results -- very, very difficult to make happen." 2) "You must proceed with love, honor, and respect for yourself or you have no chance." 3) "You must know how, or learn how, to bring intention and expectation to the party and use these conscious energies to bolster your desire and commitment." 4) You must find a way to address the issue at both a conscious and unconscious level. The unconscious or subconscious part of the mind is much more powerful; it is the seat of most behaviors, habits, emotions, etc., and therefore must be addressed in order to have your changes (resolutions) stick." 5) "You must realize that most people (about 98 percent), due to the way the human mind has evolved and functions, need a little assistance in working at a subconscious level, so if you are one of those and you really want to succeed, get the assistance you need and you will likely be a very happy camper. The assistance can come in many successful forms."
Websites: http://www.drjohnmcgrail.com http://thesynthesiseffect.com http://www.hypnotherapylosangeles.com
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Steve Siebold
Mental Toughness Coach
Siebold, author of the international bestselling book "177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class," shares these tips for making and keeping New Year's resolutions: "1) Expect to feel pain or suffer. Most people run into an obstacle and seek escape. Have a plan to push forward when this happens. If you're not ready to suffer during adversity, you're not going to be successful. 2) Don't focus on how to do it, but rather, why you should do it. Why do you want this goal to become a reality? The intensity of emotion with which this question is answered will determine whether the dream comes alive or dies. 3) Winning isn't everything, but wanting to win is. Winners have a 'whatever it takes' attitude. They've made the decision to pay any price and bear any burden in the name of victory. 4) Realize that 99 percent compliance is failure. You wouldn't cheat on your spouse in a committed relationship, so don't cheat on something as important as your resolutions. 5) Get really clear about what you want to change. Don't just say, 'I want to lose weight,' but get specific and say, 'By March 1, I want to lose 15 pounds. I'm going to eat well, exercise each day and get really committed to doing this once and for all.'"
Siebold can also offer additional tips, such as setting a timeline will help avoid procrastination; putting an accountability system in place; and avoiding "approval addiction."
Website: http://www.mentaltoughnesssecrets.com
Media Contact: Bruce Serbin, [email protected]
Simon Rego, Psy.D.
Director of Psychology Training
Montefiore Medical Center
"Every year, people make unrealistic New Year's resolutions that are difficult to maintain. The trick is to keep it simple, achievable and meaningful. Some people turn away from making resolutions out of frustration, but if you make goals that are realistic and make you feel good about yourself, you're more likely to maintain them."
Here are Dr. Rego's top 10 tips for making meaningful resolutions: 1) Connect resolutions to things that are important to you -- not things you think you "should" be doing! 2) Think small and simple. Meaningful does not mean complicated. 3) Make sure you have a way to measure them. How will you know when you've achieved them? 4) Be realistic. How much time and energy do you have to put in? 5) Break bigger resolutions down into more time-limited and short-term pieces. 6) Involve others. It can help with motivation and can make them more meaningful if others are involved. 7) Write them down -- in a place that you'll see them -- every day! 8) Try something new. It can add excitement and a sense of accomplishment. 9) Balance a focus on the outcome with a focus on the process. Resolutions are about both accomplishing something *and* the process in which it is accomplished. It's not just about whether you "did it" -- it's also about how you felt along the way, so enjoy! 10) Be gentle with yourself. Allow yourself to slip along with way. That's normal. The important part is in the willingness to refocus and rededicate yourself back to the resolution. Again and again.
Dr. Rego is director of psychology training and director of the Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Training Program at Montefiore Medical Center and associate professor of clinical psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is board certified in cognitive behavioral psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology and has over 15 years of experience using CBT therapy.
Media Contact: Rachael McCallen, [email protected]
Danielle LaPorte
Author
"We have the procedures of achievement upside down. Typically, we come up with our to-do lists, our bucket lists, and our strategic plans -- all the stuff we want to have, get, accomplish, and experience outside of ourselves. All of those aspirations are being driven by an innate desire to feel a certain way. So what if, first, we got clear on how we actually wanted to feel within ourselves, and then we designed our to-do lists, set our goals, and wrote out our bucket lists? How do you want to feel when you look at your schedule for the week? When you get dressed in the morning? When you walk through the door of your studio or your office? When you pick up the phone? When you cash the check, accept the award, finish your masterpiece, make the sale, or fall in love? Knowing how you actually want to feel is the most potent form of clarity that you can have. Generating those feelings is the most powerfully creative thing you can do with your life."
LaPorte is the creator of "The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals With Soul," a holistic approach to planning your life. It guides you to identify your core desired feelings and use them as the drivers of what you want to do, have, and experience in your life. She is also the author of the bestseller, "The Fire Starter Sessions" (Random House/Crown); co-creator of Your Big Beautiful Book Plan; and soon-to-be-publisher of Danielle Magazine. An inspirational speaker, poet, former think-tank executive and business strategist, she writes weekly at DanielleLaPorte.com, where over a million visitors have gone for her straight-up advice -- a site that's been deemed "the best place online for kick-ass spirituality" and was named one of the "Top 100 Websites for Women" by Forbes. You can also find LaPorte on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and, of course, Twitter (@daniellelaporte), which Huffington Post called one of "12 of the Wisest Twitter Accounts Worth Following."
Website: http://www.daniellelaporte.com
Media Contact: Lisa Braun Dubbels, [email protected]
Julie Hamilton
Partner
Four Dames
"At their core, resolutions are an expression of dissatisfaction with yourself. This is a depressing and self-defeating premise from which to form your resolve to be a better person. What you must do is learn to love who you are. Once you see yourself as the person who deserves love, and respect, and pleasure, you will start to become that person who embodies whatever trait or quality to which you aspire. Here's an example: If you're overweight and you love chocolate cake, the worst thing you can do is tell yourself that you're a terrible, weak person and you must deny yourself that chocolate cake. No. Love your love of cake, allow it, and begin to incorporate this source of pleasure into your healthy life that revolves around self-love and self-care. Your better self will emerge naturally, from a positive place."
Hamilton is a partner in the Four Dames, four expert life coaches who provide coaching and inspirational seminars for those seeking a true positive life change, especially at times of major transition. She is a life coach certified by the Life Mastery Institute; and a board member and past president of Chrysalis House Inc., a long-term treatment center for women and their children whose lives are overtaken by substance abuse or criminal convictions.
Media Contact: Ann Voorhees Baker, [email protected]
Patricia Barnett
Partner
Four Dames
"Resolutions almost never work, because at their core they are hollow plans to be someone you aren't. There has to be a step-by-step plan, almost like a business plan, with a logical progression of doable steps. Just as important, there must also be a vision -- not only of being the person who has achieved the desired end result, but a vision of performing each element of the plan, over and over again. When you achieve immediate success with each small step, you bolster your continuing positive action. Eventually, all of the steps will lead to the end result you desire, when they are part of a well- conceived plan."
Barnett is a partner in the Four Dames, four expert life coaches who provide coaching and inspirational seminars for those seeking a true positive life change, especially at times of major transition. She is a certified life mastery consultant, professional speaker and trainer, and owner of Barnett Consulting and Coaching since 1995.
Media Contact: Ann Voorhees Baker, [email protected]
Lynn Kitchen
Partner
Four Dames
"One of the core secrets to making your New Year's Resolution succeed is to not make a New Year's resolution in the first place, but rather discover it. Ask yourself what you really want, not what you should achieve. Here's a typical resolution: 'I'm going to grow my client base by 50 percent this year.' This resolution isn't really what you want, believe it or not. It's not deep enough. It's actually simply the way you've predetermined the solution to getting what you want, which is what? What do you really want? Do you want to earn more money? Do you want to build a big business that you can pass along to your children? Do you want to finally prove to your family that you are worthy of respect? Strip away the solution that you thought was your resolution, and discover the want that is underneath it. Then open yourself up to discovering how to have exactly what you want. The 'how' may turn out to be very different from the resolution you started with, but it will be driven by the true thing that you want."
Kitchen is a partner in the Four Dames, four expert life coaches who provide coaching and inspirational seminars for those seeking a true positive life change, especially at times of major transition. She is a former financial broker dealer and stockbroker; former president and owner/partner of Maxwell Noll Investment Advisors; and past president of the Securities Industry Management Association, Los Angeles. Kitchen is also certified in the State of California as a spiritual practitioner and a Certified Life Mastery Consultant.
Media Contact: Ann Voorhees Baker, [email protected]
Marilyn Macha
Partner
Four Dames
"The key to keeping a New Year's resolution is consciousness of deliberate thinking. Consciously and deliberately develop a vision -- a vision that is vivid and credible to your own mind. The vision must encompass not only the end result you want to achieve, but the roadmap you can and will follow to get to that end result. Your vision should feel powerful to you. The difference between a wish/resolution and a powerful vision is the like the difference between incandescent and laser light. Both are types of light, but incandescent light is not focused. Laser light can cut through steel. A powerful vision takes on a life of its own."
Macha is a partner in the Four Dames, four expert life coaches who provide coaching and inspirational seminars for those seeking a true positive life change, especially at times of major transition. She is a certified financial planner, life underwriter, chartered financial consultant, and certified Life Mastery Consultant. She is also owner and investment advisor of Houston Wealth Strategies.
Media Contact: Ann Voorhees Baker, [email protected]
Jonathan Alpert
Author
Alpert is a Manhattan-based psychotherapist, columnist, and author of "BE FEARLESS: Change Your Life in 28 Days." He is available to provide readers with tips for making and keeping New Year's resolutions. His approach is results-oriented and he helps countless people reach their goals pertaining to career, relationships, health, weight, etc.
Website: http://www.jonathanalpert.com
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Phyllis S. Zilkha, Ph.D.
"One important resolution for 2014: I will not worry about things I cannot do something about."
Zilkha, a psychologist in private practice in New York City, specializes in life transitions, relationships, executive coaching, couples counseling, bereavement, anxiety and depression.
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Carolyn AlRoy, PsyD
"New Year's resolutions that are specific, on a timeline, and that identify means are significantly more likely to succeed. For example" 'I will lose 20 pounds by June, by doing aerobic exercise 10 minutes a day.'"
AlRoy, a psychologist in private practice in Manhattan, does coaching, therapy, and business consultation, across industry lines around resolving resistance.
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Heidi Lehmann
Fashion and Lingerie Expert, Designer
BodyHum
"Awakening your inner goddess involves knowing how your clothing affects your body, well-being and peace of mind. Resolve to educate yourself about how to feel comfortable, confident and sexy. It's going to be a beautiful 2014."
Lehmann has more than 34 years of experience the lingerie and shapewear industries. She was formerly the top designer at Triumph/Valisere, where she was responsible for the growth and success of the collection in Europe and Asia. Having co-created the Santoni Seamless Technology for Sara Lee, which is used in Playtex, Hanes, Barely There, and Wonderbra, Lehmann is now a designer for BodyHum. They have developed a prototype that is a more supportive undergarment, allowing women to experience more energy and vitality. Lehmann uses her past design experience to engage a woman's innate energy and provide a healthier garment.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC
Rapini is a nationally known psychotherapist, public/keynote speaker, and television and radio commentator. She is also the co-author of the award-winning book, "Start Talking: A Girl's Guide for You and Your Mom About Health, Sex or Whatever," which contains more than 113 questions girls ask us every day about, well, everything: periods, sex, weight, relationships, guys, eating, exercise, and more. She also writes the "Parents Ask" monthly column for Houston Family Magazine each month. In Houston, she is on several radio and TV shows on a regular basis. Two articles she has written on resolutions: "Making Your Resolutions Pack Some Punch in the New Year" (http://tinyurl.com/koabks3) and "Making Successful New Year's Resolutions" (http://tinyurl.com/lalo8ww). You can use any of the tips, as long as you credit Rapini.
Websites: http://www.Maryjorapini.Com and http://www.starttalkingbook.com
Media Contact: Kate Bandos, [email protected]
Kerry Gaynor
Hypnotherapist
Gaynor is a renowned hypnotherapist in Santa Monica who has helped thousands of people quit smoking and kick other addictions, with an 80 percent success rate. Over the past 34 years, some of his clients have included Aaron Eckhart, Paul Rudd, Eva Mendes, Martin Sheen, Justin Theroux, Kevin Pollak, Nick Cassavetes, Peter Falk, Jerry Ferrara, Emily Procter, Howard Hesseman and many more. He's now making his method to quit smoking available on DVD for the first time in December in order to reach an even larger audience. "The Kerry Gaynor Method" is a series of three, one-hour DVDs that replicates the experience one would have in his live sessions. It involves a therapy portion with an unscripted, real session between Gaynor and a client that allows the viewer to change their perception about addiction. The hypnosis portion involves Gaynor guiding the viewer towards that natural state in order to resolve inner conflicts that are blocking their ability to quit. His approach to addiction is a departure from most views in that it doesn't define anyone -- it's merely an activity that people are engaged in during a particular time in their lives, and everyone has the power to stop.
Website: http://www.thekerrygaynormethod.com
Media Contact: Christina Le, [email protected]
David Cunningham, M.Ed.
Communications Expert
Landmark
Cunningham is available to discuss why what you decide makes all the difference to keeping your resolutions intact. Research shows that a mere 8 percent of all Americans who make New Year's resolutions successfully keep them, while 25 percent fail to keep them after the first week. The common pitfall most people make is concentrating on the wrong thing. We're watching what we eat, how much money we spend (or don't spend), etc. But the truth is if you really want a different year, you need to watch what you decide.
Landmark is a professional growth, training and development company that's had more than 2.2 million people use its programs to cause breakthroughs in their personal lives, as well as in their communities, generating more than 100,000 community projects around the world. In The Landmark Forum, Landmark's flagship program, people cause breakthroughs in their performance, communication, relationships and overall satisfaction in life.
Website: http://www.LandmarkWorldwide.com
Press Kit: http://www.davidcunningham.presskit247.com
Media Contact: Michelle Tennant Nicholson, [email protected]
Josselyne Herman-Saccio
Communications Expert
Landmark
Herman-Saccio is available to discuss why what you decide makes all the difference to keeping your resolutions intact. Research shows that a mere 8 percent of all Americans who make New Year's resolutions successfully keep them, while 25 percent fail to keep them after the first week. The common pitfall most people make is concentrating on the wrong thing. We're watching what we eat, how much money we spend (or don't spend), etc. But the truth is if you really want a different year, you need to watch what you decide.
Landmark is a professional growth, training and development company that's had more than 2.2 million people use its programs to cause breakthroughs in their personal lives, as well as in their communities, generating more than 100,000 community projects around the world. In The Landmark Forum, Landmark's flagship program, people cause breakthroughs in their performance, communication, relationships and overall satisfaction in life.
Website: http://www.LandmarkWorldwide.com
Press Kit: http://www.josselynehermansaccio.presskit247.com
Media Contact: Michelle Tennant Nicholson, [email protected]
HEALTH & FITNESS
Franklin Antoian
Founder
iBodyFit.com
"For the best results, follow the acronym S.M.A.R.T. when setting New Year's Resolutions: Set specific, measurable, attainable, relative and time-sensitive goals. 'I will lose 10 pounds by Feb. 1 by running three miles, five days per week and eating 1,500 calories each day' is much better than 'I want to lose weight.'"
Antoian, an ACE personal trainer and fitness expert, is founder of the online workout site iBodyFit.com and author of "The Fit Executive."
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Elizabeth Somer, RD
Registered Dietitian
Somer, a registered dietitian and author of "Eat Your Way to Sexy," "Eat Your Way to Happiness" and "Food & Mood," is available to discuss why readers should add a supplement to their diet regimen this year: "Your best bet when choosing a supplement program for the days when you don't eat perfectly are the following: 1) Select a broad-range multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. Choose one that contains vitamins A, D, and K, all of the B vitamins and the trace minerals. 2) Read the column titled 'Daily Value' on the back label. Look for a multiple that provides approximately 100 percent, but no more than 300 percent of the daily value for all nutrients provided. You want a 'balanced' supplement, not one that supplies 2 percent of one nutrient, 50 percent of another, and 600 percent of another. 3) If you don't eat fatty fish, such as salmon, at least twice a week, then pick a supplement that contains at least 100mg of DHA."
Media Contact: Samantha Liebhard, [email protected]
Dr. David Perlmutter
Neurologist, Medical Advisor to Dr. Oz
Perlmutter, a fellow of the American College of Nutrition and author of "Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth About Wheat, Carbs and Sugar – Your Brain's Silent Killers," is available to discuss how avoiding grains now can help your readers' brains later: "If it can go bad, it's good for you. If it stays good, it's bad for you. When it comes to keeping Alzheimer's disease at bay, grass-fed beef, avocados and coconut oil are the perfect trio of 'memory foods.' Similarly, foods high in omega-3s like olive oil, flaxseed oil, and walnut oil play a big role in avoiding 'grain brain.'"
Media Contact: Samantha Liebhard, [email protected]
Holly Chisholm Hargrave, MA, MBA
Owner/Founder
AthleticGenius Fitness
"New Year's resolutions are a marathon – not a sprint."
Hargrave, a master personal trainer, sports nutrition consultant, weight management consultant, group fitness trainer, strength and conditioning consultant, and kids and teens fitness consultant, offers the following fitness resolutions: 1) Diet to lose weight: "Beware of quick fixes and fad diets. Most diets don't work long-term; lifestyle changes do. The goal is to make a lifestyle change in your eating habits. Lifestyle changes require taking small steps. Begin by making small changes to your eating habits. For example, eat breakfast; switch from eating a few large meals a day to eating five small meals; avoid foods with large simple-sugar content; give up soda; drink water; eat more veggies." 2) To exercise more often: "This resolution is far too vague; goals should be specific, written and attainable. It is too easy to let yourself slide for excuses such as 'I am too busy,' 'It's cold outside,' 'It's too dark when I get home,' or 'I find the gym to be intimidating.' Instead, make a significant lifestyle change and stick to it. Document your current activity level in a journal so that you can measure your increase in exercise. Find an activity you enjoy. Exercise should be fun, not punishment. There are a wide variety of ways to exercise, from walking, jogging and swimming, to joining a gym or finding a local exercise group. Make yourself accountable by joining forces with a workout buddy or group. Prioritize your exercise in your day as you would a doctor's appointment. Literally put exercise on your calendar as an appointment and honor it." 3) To lose 20 pounds: "It is not how much you weigh that you should be concerned with, but rather your body composition. Body composition takes into consideration the ratio of fat vs. muscle that comprises your body weight. Exercising may keep your weight stable due to muscle gain while decreasing your clothing size. Don't attach a number to your goal. That's not to say you shouldn't watch the scale, but it should not be your end-all. Regular weight checks are important for keeping any fitness program on track. However, I prefer a test outfit, one that is unforgiving and fits you prior to your weight-loss goal. If the scale is not showing you the number you are dreaming of, try on your test clothes. If the outfit is fitting looser, you are likely gaining muscle and trimming down."
Media Contact: Judy Twersky, [email protected]
Dr. Lisa Tseng
CEO
hi HealthInnovations
Hearing loss is a growing health issue that currently affects 48 million Americans nationwide. That's why it is important for people to set a resolution for 2014 to maintain their hearing health, as well as to obtain treatment if they are already experiencing hearing loss. Says Dr. Tseng: "Hearing loss can affect a person's ability to stay connected to friends and family, contributing to social isolation, lower earnings and higher risk of falls. By taking steps to maintain your hearing health, it will help you to maintain or enhance your overall health and quality of life."
Dr. Tseng is available to provide tips to help people maintain and improve their hearing health during the new year, including: 1) Follow the 60/60 rule, which means limiting the use of earbud headphones to no more than 60 minutes at a time and no more than 60 percent of the player's maximum volume. 2) Limit exposure to loud sounds, such as music, lawnmowers or motorcycles, to no more than 20 minutes at a time. When attending concerts or sporting events, consider wearing hearing protection. Studies have shown that consistent exposure to loud sounds above 100 decibels, as compared to a normal conversation of 60 decibels, can permanently affect hearing. 3) Talk to your doctor or hearing health professional and schedule a hearing test. Common signs of hearing loss include turning up the volume on the TV or radio to levels that others find too loud, having trouble hearing people on the phone, and difficulty following conversations in noisy environments.
Media Contact: Will Shanley, [email protected]
John J. Phillips
Healthy Living Expert
Celliant
"Every action has an equal and opposite reaction, and energy is at the root of it all. Resolve to be mindful of your energy -- what you take in, what you give off, and what you are able to get back. It's a resource that's highly valued but oft wasted, and can be found sometimes in unexpected places, like where you sleep and what you wear."
Phillips has a lasting passion for healthy lifestyles. He received his bachelor's degree in business development at the University of South Florida, which shaped his future in business ventures and led him to become the CEO of Energy Textiles LLC. Before Energy Textiles, he owned a bedding store, where he learned about Celliant products that have a thermally reactive fiber that redirects healing energy back into the body. Intrigued and interested in learning more, Phillips used his business background to offer consumers an accessible and convenient way to purchase these products. Dedicated to the brand, its benefits, and improving lives, Phillips' mission is to help people around the world experience the enhanced performance of Celliant.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Suzie Carpenter
Nutrition and Wellness Coach, Founder
Clean, Lean & Sexy
"Adopting a healthier lifestyle through dietary change is a common resolution, but a tough one to stick to unless you understand the triggers -- both physiological and emotional -- that cause us to fall off track. Exercise is important, but if 80 percent of weight loss has to do with what we eat, then why do we invest our time and resources on exercise while taking shortcuts with eating? Let's face it, we are a culture of convenience, and food is seductive. Find inspiration, get support and make your resolutions out of love, not punishment."
Carpenter earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from Colby College in Waterville, Maine. She also graduated from the Institute of Nutrition in New York City and is certified by the American Association of Drug-less Practitioners. She first became interested in health and nutrition by helping her daughter, who had severe gastro-intestinal symptoms, find a diet that worked for her. Carpenter discovered that when she removed certain foods from her daughter's diet, she underwent something of a miraculous transformation -- her health improved dramatically and she felt much better. The drastic changes in her daughter prompted Carpenter to reevaluate her own personal relationship with food and convinced her of the power of a clean diet. She found that by changing her own eating habits, she was able to rid herself of acid reflux, chronic pain, constipation, eczema, and persistent sinus and respiratory issues. Knowing how difficult it can be to transition and remain committed to healthier habits, Carpenter, a Certified Nutrition and Peak Health Coach, founded Clean, Lean & Sexy to provide great-tasting whole food energy products in the form of simple healthy snacks to help consumers achieve and maintain their weight and lifestyle goals.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Dr. Peter Weiss
OB-GYN, Medical Director
Rodeo Drive Women's Health Center; Earth Vitality Centers
"This year, ask not what your body can do for you, but what you can do for your body. Life is not about the destination but the journey, so make it a good one. Eat healthy, exercise and enjoy the ride. If you take care of your body, it will take care of you."
As the medical professional behind Earthbar's revolutionary new expansion, Earth Vitality, Dr. Weiss is a leading advocate for prevention and wellness as the key to a healthy life. He is often referred to as the "doctor to the stars." He is a board certified OB-GYN and graduate from the University of Michigan Medical School. He is currently the director for the Rodeo Drive Women's Health Center, as well as Earth Vitality Centers. Currently he is an assistant clinical professor of OB-GYN at UCLA School of Medicine and is an attending physician at Cedars Sinai Medical Center, as well as St. John's Health Center. Dr. Weiss has been on many national television talk shows and has written extensively on numerous health care topics for different journals and newspapers. He has also been health care consultant for several medical TV shows and hosted a health care radio program on CBS radio. He has won many national awards, including Physician of the Year, was named as one of America's top Obstetrician and Gynecologist by the Consumer Research Council of America, AOL Outstanding Physicians awards, and PEER reviewed awards, to name just a few. He was one of the first vocal physician advocates for umbilical cord stem cell collections and therapies, and has spoken on this topic on a national level to other physicians, as well as the media.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Martin W. Keen
Design and Health Expert, CEO
Focal Upright Furniture
"Kick a habit you didn't even know you had. Resolve to get out of your chair more in the new year. We evolved to be upright -- being up and moving sends more fuel to your brain and body. You'll feel better and just get far more done."
Keen's ambition is to find a way to mix health with the production of an enduring and functional product. Their ingenious design is sure to change the way people work, sit and feel. It is fundamentally changing the way people go about their day. Keen is continuing his pursuit of re-imagining our interface with the environment, combining his intuitive sense of what is needed with his expert eye for utility, material and form. Before Focal, Keen launched the well-known KEEN Footwear in 2003, which exploded in popularity and achieved sales of nearly $1.5 million in its first three months. He has the drive to make our workspace a healthier way to work.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Wei-Shin Lai, M.D.
Family Physician, Sleep Expert
CEO, AcousticSheep, LLC
"If you have problems with daytime fatigue, it could because your nighttime sleep isn't optimal. For this New Year, resolve to wake up at the same time every day for two weeks. Studies show that it takes two weeks to establish a new habit. Your brain and body will enjoy the predictability and you'll be less stressed."
Dr. Lai is the inventor of SleepPhones and CEO of AcousticSheep, LLC. She became proficient in recommending sleep solutions when it became a personal issue for her. Born in Taiwan, Dr. Lai came to the U.S. when she was 7 years old. She earned a B.S. with distinction in cellular molecular biology at the University of Michigan with the intent of studying the Ebola virus. However, her thirst for adventure and travel was tamed when she realized that for her to be truly happy, she had to interact with people instead of staying holed up in a lab. She graduated from the University of Virginia Medical School and went into family medicine. Dr. Lai continues to work part-time at Penn State University's Student Health Center as the only Mandarin-speaking physician on staff. She brings personal experience to the table and knows that sleep is one of the most important ingredients to live a healthier life.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Eileen McHale
Nutrition and Wellness Expert, Co-founder
Healthy Foods LLC
"The key to achieving your resolution is to set a big goal but create small, incremental steps to set yourself up for easy wins so you can feel good along the way. If you want to lose 25 pounds this year, set the goal to lose one pound per week for the next 25 weeks, and you will be ready for summer. Make a plan to add one new positive step each week to help move you forward. Remember the old tale of the turtle beating the hare: Slow and steady wins the race."
McHale has a passion for food and human and environmental health. As a graduate from Florida International University with a degree in environmental studies and an emphasis in international relations, McHale took her degree and passion for food and became the co-inventor of Yonanas and co-founder of Healthy Foods LLC. She appears on television shopping networks and travels the world as a healthy-eating advocate. She is a professionally trained chef and creator and host of "Dish With Eileen," a healthy foods cooking show that is broadcast to millions of students in schools and youth centers in over 30 countries on the HOPSports Network. Her background in the food industry and passion to live a healthier lifestyle makes her the perfect expert for healthy eating and nutrition.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Marisa Weiss, M.D.
Founder, President
Breastcancer.org
Dr. Weiss, the guiding force behind Breastcancer.org, is available to speak from an M.D.'s perspective on the importance of making a healthy New Year's resolution and living a healthy lifestyle, which can reduce the overall risk of developing cancer. The Lowering Your Risk section of Breastcancer.org provides insight on how healthy lifestyle choices can help lower the risk of developing cancer, including eating right, exercising, consuming less alcohol and quitting smoking -- all major New Year's resolutions.
Breastcancer.org is the world's most utilized online resource for expert medical and personal information on breast health and breast cancer, reaching 30 million people globally over the past 13 years. Dr. Weiss currently practices at Lankenau Medical Center, part of the Main Line Health Hospitals of the Thomas Jefferson University Health System in the Philadelphia area, where she serves as director of breast radiation oncology and director of breast health outreach. She also served on the National Cancer Institute Director's Consumer Liaison Group from 2000 to 2007.
Dr. Weiss has more than 20 years of experience as a breast cancer oncologist, and is regarded as a visionary advocate for her approach to informing and empowering individuals to protect their breast health and overcome the challenges of breast cancer. She is the author of four critically acclaimed books on breast cancer and breast health, and is frequently called upon to comment on the latest breast cancer research and news -- with appearances on "The Dr. Oz Show" to speak out on Angelina Jolie's double mastectomy, and CNN's "Out Front with Erin Burnett" to provide her comments on a recent study that found that younger women are at greater risk of getting diagnosed with breast cancer. Dr. Weiss is also a member of the Wall Street Journal's Ask the Experts panel and serves as a regular blog contributor to The Huffington Post.
Media Contact: Matt Coppola, [email protected]
Paula Newby-Fraser
Ironman Triathlete
With losing weight/getting fit as the top New Year's resolution, Newby-Fraser is available to discuss how endurance training (and Ironman races in particular) can help people achieve their 2014 goals. She can also shed some light on how to confront the challenges associated with keeping a regimen, as well as training and completing long-distance races, including Ironman, Iron Girl, and Ironman 70.3.
Newby-Fraser is the greatest athlete to compete in the Ironman race, with 21 Ironman Championships, including eight Ironman World Championships, under her belt -- more than any other person. Her 1988 Ironman finish (11th overall) has been called the "greatest performance in endurance sports history," and the Los Angeles Times and ABC's Wide World of Sports have acclaimed her "the greatest all-around female athlete in the world." The Women's Sports Foundation named her its 1990 "Professional Sportswoman of the Year," the most prestigious international award given to female athletes each year. The United States Sports Academy, CNN and USA Today named her one of top five professional women athletes of the last 25 years (1972-97).
Media Contact: Krissy Wrobel, [email protected]
Debra Wickman, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
Gynecologist and Chairwoman
Intimina Medical Advisory Board
Dr. Wickman is available to talk about ways to embrace a more fulfilling and healthy sexual lifestyle in the New Year. She is a key thought leader in the field of intimate health and wellness. She is a gynecologist certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her practice is located at SHE, Sexual Health Experts, a comprehensive interdisciplinary treatment approach to women's sexual health needs.
Dr. Wickman completed medical school at the University of Washington in Seattle and continued on there to complete her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. After several years of private practice in obstetrics and gynecology, she went to University of California, Los Angeles to complete a year-long postgraduate fellowship in female sexual medicine. Dr. Wickman spent the year doing research projects in the Female Sexual Medicine Center, providing patient care, and presenting research findings at several national meetings. She is actively involved with the North American Menopause Society and is a certified menopause practitioner since 2003. Dr. Wickman is also a member of the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health and is experienced in prescribing bioidentical hormone therapy, and treating problems related to aging, menopause and sexual dysfunction. As a board member for Intimina, she is able to bring her expertise to the table and offer great advice on health and self-improvement in the sexual health field.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Renee Posner
Meditation and Ayurvedic Wellness Expert
VP, Sales and Marketing
VPK by Maharishi
Posner is able to discuss how the calming methods of meditation and Ayurveda can be used to get on the path of a healthier lifestyle in 2014.
Posner possesses a B.S. in biology from American University and studied physiology at Georgetown University School of Medicine, providing her an early foundation in health and critical thinking. Her experience with the "mind-body" connection goes back even further, though. She learned transcendental meditation ("TM") while studying for her masters in physiology, and has been practicing for more than 35 years. Prior to joining VPK, Posner was vice president of licensing and proprietary products for Reader's Digest, where she developed the company's best-selling product. She was intrigued by scientific studies showing the positive physiological effects of TM, so she took a leave from her cancer research position at Rockefeller University to study with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and became a TM instructor. She was searching for a new chapter in life that would reflect her dedication to a healthy lifestyle. Some years later Maharishi was among the first to introduce ayurveda to the west. Posner, noting its benefits and vast knowledge of its practitioners, began studying its underlying principles and using VPK products. Later, she joined VPK, where she brought a unique perspective. Her life science background and expertise in TM has given her insight into the emerging of scientifically validated alternative medicine, and its growing acceptance by the public and health care professionals. She loves helping others on their journey to total health and well-being.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
Alan Marks
Meditation and Ayurvedic Wellness Expert, CEO
VPK by Maharishi
Alan Marks can talk about why those who resolve to adopt a more health conscious lifestyle in the New Year should embrace Ayurvedic health tactics. Having practiced the Transcendental Meditation ("TM") technique and an Ayurvedic lifestyle since the age of 18, combined with a successful background in business and real estate development, Marks is ideally qualified to run the first and oldest Ayurvedic products company in the U.S. Having used VPK's products his entire adult life, Marks was named CEO in 2010. He has been a teacher of TM since 1992, and holds a B.A. in philosophy from Arizona State University. He has a strong dedication to a health-conscious lifestyle. In 2007, before joining VPK, he became a founding board member of Jefferson County Farmers and Neighbors, a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to stopping the building of CAFOs, confined animal feeding operations, in his local Jefferson County and throughout Iowa. In 2008, prior to the passing of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of MAPI and of the TM movement, Marks was awarded a gold medal and an honorary doctorate by Maharishi himself for his efforts in promoting world peace, one of the missions of Maharishi University of Management. Marks' mission is to introduce more organic ingredients to the public.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
HOME & LIVING
Lacy Robinson
Director of Professional Development
Aurora Casket Company
Robinson advises that seniors make a New Year's resolution to sit down with their spouses and families and make end-of-life arrangements: Pre-planning one's funeral goes a long way in clarifying your wishes, establishing a realistic budget and easing the burden of funeral arrangements on your surviving family. Regardless of whether you want a full traditional funeral or a simple cremation, planning ahead can make the whole process easier on the entire family.
Robinson is a Kentucky-licensed funeral director/embalmer and a certified member of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice. She is a graduate of Georgetown College, Georgetown, Ky., holding a bachelor's degree in communications. She is also a graduate from Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Jeffersonville, Ind. As Senior Professional Development Trainer at Aurora Casket, Lacy specializes in helping funeral directors partner with families to create funerals that honor both their basic and personal needs at the time of loss. She presents continuing education programs at the local, state and national levels. She also serves on the advisory board to the Association of Women Funeral Professionals and is an active member of the Funeral Directors Association of Kentucky. She is a Certified Funeral Celebrant, Certified Wilson Learning Facilitator and member of the Bluegrass Toastmasters Group.
Media Contact: Randi Kenney, [email protected] or +1-859-291-4302
Jill Swanson
Author, Image Coach
Swanson is available to discuss how to get (and keep) the closet organized in three simple steps: "Evaluate: what you need, what you use and what you have not used. Eliminate: the "uns" -- anything that is unattractive, unwearable, and uncomfortable. Accentuate: the positive -- add to your current wardrobe a couple of brighter colors in shirts, new accessories and make pieces into outfits!"
Swanson is an image coach, and author of "Out the Door in 15 Minutes" (2013). She has been in the image consulting business since 1982 in Rochester, Minn. She works with corporations, organizations and individuals throughout the country teaching them how to update, anticipate, and accentuate their image and wardrobes.
Expert Contact: [email protected]
Nick Savadian
Technology and Lifestyle Expert
Ecovacs Robotics
"Simply put: Live smart; enjoy life. People's New Year's resolutions usually boil down to improving themselves, spending more time with loved ones and living a more fulfilling and happier life. Seek out tools to help make life easier and more enjoyable so you can do more of what you love. There are more out there than you might think. Time is more valuable than ever these days. Why spend time doing things we don't want to do, when technology can do it for us?"
Savadian is the man behind the strategic launch of Ecovacs Robotics in North America. With over 20 years of combined experience in the home and hardware industries, Savadian is a true time-tested, savvy executive with a phenomenal business persona. He is immensely knowledgeable in international sales, very sharp, to the point, and a perfectionist. Under Savadian's leadership, short of one year since its inception in the U.S., Ecovacs Robotics products have received extraordinary exposure and reviews among top media outlets without even being available to the mass market. Savadian is known for introducing global companies in new markets from ground up and putting together winning teams that lead the company to new heights through collaboration and innovation. Not only is he a remarkable leader, he is a great teacher as well. He encourages his employees to come out of their comfort zones and not be afraid to voice their opinion and do what it takes to get outstanding results.
Media Contact: Meagan Schmidt, [email protected]
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OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES:
Following are links to other news and resources we think you might find useful. If you have an item you think other reporters would be interested in and would like us to include in a future alert, please drop us a line at [email protected]
- MEDIA 411: INTERNS WHO SUE. Internships are a coveted part of a college student's life. These days, however, some internship programs are under scrutiny by students for not giving them at least a minimum wage salary and for being assigned what they feel are tasks without educational benefit. Read on as Evelyn Tipacti explores this topic: http://bit.ly/17XLvE6
- BLOG NOTES: THEME PARKS, FOOD & GREEN LIVING BLOGS. Blog notes is a weekly helping of blogs recently reviewed by Christine Cube. In this week's installment, Cube reviews blogs that cover theme parks, food and green living: http://bit.ly/17QtdT1
- THE Q&A TEAM: HOW TO NEVER RUN OUT OF BLOG POST IDEAS: It can be challenging to constantly come up with interesting topics to write about. In this Q&A Team post, we hear from eight ProfNet experts on how to never run out of blog post ideas: http://bit.ly/18fp37g
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