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Dr. Fab Mancini: Shaping a Healthier World — An Exclusive

Editor @ Global Man June 20, 2023 No Comments

As a publication devoted to the modern, ambitious, and globally-minded man, Global Man Magazine is excited to bring to you a thought-provoking conversation with a man who embodies these very characteristics. We present an exclusive interview with one of the world’s most influential figures in wellness and integrative healthcare – a consultant, a best-selling author, a speaker, and a powerful advocate for self-healing and healthy living, Dr. Fab Mancini.

From advising governmental and civic organizations, including the White House Commission for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, to transforming organizations’ approach to wellness, Dr. Mancini has made waves across different sectors and continents. He has served as the President/CEO and President Emeritus of Parker University, and his bestselling book, “The Power of Self-Healing,” has become a global phenomenon, inspiring individuals to tap into their body’s natural ability to heal itself. In this insightful interview, Dr. Mancini takes us on his remarkable journey, sharing the challenges, opportunities, and powerful stories that have shaped his career and the field of integrative healthcare.

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As a global executive and consultant in wellness and integrative healthcare, what do you consider to be the most significant challenges and opportunities in promoting self-healing and healthy lifestyles on a global scale?

When it comes to promoting self-healing and healthy lifestyles on a global scale, there are both significant challenges and incredible opportunities that lie before us, especially for high achievers. One of the most significant challenges is shifting the mindset of individuals from a reactive approach to health, where we wait until something goes wrong before taking action, to a proactive approach that prioritises prevention and self-care.

Imagine your body as a finely tuned instrument, like a sleek sports car. Just as you invest time and resources into maintaining and optimizing your car’s performance, you must do the same for your body. The opportunity lies in recognizing that your body is a self-healing marvel, capable of restoring and rejuvenating itself when given the proper conditions and care.

To seize this opportunity, I recommend starting with small, actionable steps that align with your busy lifestyle. Begin by incorporating mindful moments throughout your day, whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing or a brief meditation session. Cultivate a nourishing relationship with food, choosing whole, unprocessed ingredients that fuel your body and mind. Engage in regular physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s a dance class, yoga session, or brisk walk in nature.

The science supports these practices, showing that mindfulness reduces stress levels, proper nutrition strengthens immune function, and exercise releases endorphins that boost mood and overall well-being. By prioritizing these practices and integrating them into your daily routine, you can gradually transform your life and inspire others to do the same.

You have worked with various organizations and individuals to transform their approach to wellness and healthcare. Could you share a particularly memorable success story that highlights the impact of your work?

Let me share a memorable success story that exemplifies the impact of my work. I once worked with a high-powered executive, much like your readers, who was constantly under immense pressure to perform and deliver results. She had neglected her well-being for years, sacrificing sleep, healthy eating, and exercise in pursuit of professional success.

During our coaching sessions, we discussed the importance of self-care and how it ultimately enhances productivity and effectiveness. We explored practical strategies to incorporate wellness into her demanding schedule, such as creating a morning routine that included exercise, setting boundaries to ensure adequate rest, and adopting healthier eating habits.

Over time, she began to experience profound changes. She had more energy, improved focus, and a renewed sense of purpose. She became an inspiring example to her team, advocating for work-life balance and prioritizing employee well-being. This cultural shift resulted in increased productivity, reduced turnover, and improved overall company performance.

The transformative power of this success story lies in recognizing that investing in our own well-being not only benefits us individually but also has a ripple effect on our organizations and the people around us. By prioritizing self-care and leading by example, we can create a positive and thriving work environment that supports the holistic health of all.

With your expertise in executive leadership, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders in the wellness industry who aim to create a vision for growth, profitability, and value?

First, it’s essential to clarify your purpose and define your unique value proposition. What makes your approach to wellness distinct? What specific problems do you solve? Understanding your unique contribution will help you stand out in a crowded market and attract clients and partners who resonate with your vision.

Second, embrace a growth mindset. View challenges as opportunities for learning and expansion. Stay curious and open to new ideas and research, always seeking to integrate the latest evidence-based practices into your offerings. Continually educate yourself to remain at the forefront of the wellness industry and position yourself as a thought leader.

Third, foster collaboration and strategic partnerships. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals and organizations that share your values and complementary expertise. By joining forces, you can amplify your impact and create a collective movement towards a healthier world.

Finally, lead by example. Walk the talk and embody the principles you espouse. Your personal well-being and success serve as a powerful testament to the effectiveness of your approach. By living a balanced, purpose-driven life, you inspire others to follow suit and become ambassadors of wellness themselves.

As an author, speaker, and media personality, you have been influential in educating and motivating others to improve their health and wellness. How do you ensure that your message resonates with diverse audiences across different cultures and languages?

As a global author, speaker, and media personality, my aim is to ensure that my message resonates with diverse audiences across different cultures and languages. I achieve this by focusing on universal principles and values that transcend cultural boundaries.

One of the key principles is the acknowledgment of our shared humanity. Regardless of our cultural backgrounds, we all aspire to live a fulfilling and healthy life. By emphasizing this common goal, I create a bridge of understanding that allows my message to resonate with individuals from all walks of life.

Another strategy I employ is the use of relatable metaphors and personal examples. I believe stories have a unique power to connect people, and I often share narratives that illustrate the transformative potential of self-healing and healthy lifestyle choices. By providing vivid and relatable anecdotes, I tap into the emotions and experiences that are universally understood and appreciated.

Furthermore, I prioritise the translation and adaptation of my work into different languages and cultural contexts. By working with professional translators and cultural consultants, I ensure that my message retains its authenticity and relevance when shared with diverse audiences.

Ultimately, the key lies in approaching each interaction with empathy and cultural sensitivity. By recognizing and respecting the uniqueness of each individual and community, we can create a more inclusive and empowering dialogue around health and wellness.

Having served as President/CEO and President Emeritus of Parker University, what strategies did you implement to transform the institution into a growing accredited university meeting the evolving needs of the healthcare industry?

First, I focused on fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. By encouraging interdisciplinary partnerships and creating platforms for knowledge exchange, we harnessed the collective intelligence of our faculty, staff, and students. This collaborative approach allowed us to stay ahead of emerging trends and adapt our curriculum and programs accordingly.

Second, I emphasised the integration of technology and cutting-edge research. We invested in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, ensuring that our students had access to the latest advancements in healthcare. By embracing technology, we expanded our educational reach beyond traditional boundaries, offering online courses and virtual learning opportunities.

Third, we cultivated strong relationships with industry leaders and practitioners. Through partnerships and advisory boards, we gained valuable insights into the evolving needs and demands of the healthcare sector. This allowed us to tailor our educational offerings to align with real-world requirements and provide our graduates with a competitive edge.

Lastly, I prioritised the well-being and personal growth of our students. Recognizing that healthcare professionals must embody the principles they teach, we incorporated wellness and business education into our curriculum. We empowered our students to embrace self-care, resilience, and a holistic approach to health, ensuring that they were not only knowledgeable practitioners but also exemplars of well-being.

By implementing these strategies, we positioned Parker University as a leading institution that not only met the needs of the healthcare industry but also prepared compassionate and empowered healthcare professionals to make a positive impact in the world.

You have advised governmental and civic organizations, including the White House Commission for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. What role do you see for complementary and alternative medicine in the future of healthcare, and how can it be integrated effectively?

When it comes to the future of healthcare, I firmly believe that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has a vital role to play. CAM offers a holistic and patient-centered approach that complements conventional medicine, focusing on prevention, empowerment, and the body’s innate ability to heal.

Just as diverse ecosystems thrive with a wide range of plant and animal species, our healthcare system can flourish by embracing a diverse array of healing modalities. Integrating CAM effectively requires a shift in perspective, from a narrow focus on disease management to a broader understanding of health promotion and well-being.

To achieve this integration, I recommend three action steps:

First, we must foster collaboration and open dialogue between conventional and complementary practitioners. By creating forums for knowledge exchange and mutual respect, we can bridge the gap and establish a cohesive and comprehensive approach to healthcare.

Second, we need to prioritise research and evidence-based practices in the field of CAM. Robust scientific studies and clinical trials are essential for validating the effectiveness and safety of CAM modalities. By supporting and participating in research efforts, we can build a solid foundation of evidence that allows CAM to be integrated into mainstream healthcare.

Lastly, education plays a critical role. We must equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to understand and appreciate the benefits of CAM. By incorporating CAM education into medical and healthcare training programs, we empower future practitioners to embrace a truly integrative approach and provide the best care possible.

By integrating CAM effectively, we can create a healthcare system that harnesses the best of both worlds, optimizing patient outcomes, and enhancing overall well-being.

Your best-selling book, “The Power of Self-Healing,” has inspired countless individuals. Could you share a personal anecdote or testimonial that exemplifies the transformative power of self-healing?

A few years ago, I was approached by a high-achieving executive who was struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, and burnout. Despite her professional success, she felt trapped in a cycle of exhaustion and disconnection from herself and her loved ones.

During our sessions, we explored the power of self-healing and the importance of addressing the underlying causes of her stress. We delved into the concept of self-care and the transformative potential of simple practices like mindfulness, gratitude, Chiropractic care and conscious breathing.

Over time, she began to incorporate these practices into her daily routine. She set aside time for self-reflection and self-care, nurturing her body, mind, and spirit. Gradually, she noticed profound changes. Her stress levels reduced, and she gained a newfound sense of clarity, resilience, and joy.

But the transformation didn’t stop there. As she experienced the profound benefits of self-healing, she became an advocate within her organization. She implemented wellness initiatives, created spaces for mindfulness and stress reduction, and encouraged her team members to prioritise self-care.

The impact was remarkable. Employee morale improved, productivity soared, and absenteeism decreased. The organization became a beacon of well-being, attracting top talent and earning a reputation as an employer that truly cared about the holistic well-being of its staff.

This personal anecdote exemplifies the transformative power of self-healing. When we embark on a journey of self-discovery and prioritise our well-being, we not only transform ourselves but also have the potential to create a ripple effect of positive change in our personal and professional lives.

In your experience as a consultant to businesses, governments, and non-profits, what innovative strategies have you recommended to expand market share for product-driven companies while reducing healthcare costs?

Here are a few actionable steps:

First, emphasise prevention and wellness. Shift the focus from reactive treatment to proactive wellness by creating products and services that support healthy lifestyles and preventive care. By targeting the root causes of health issues and providing resources for self-care, companies can reduce the need for costly interventions down the line.

Second, leverage technology and data analytics. Embrace digital solutions that empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Develop smart devices, wearables, and apps that provide personalised insights, tracking, and guidance. By leveraging data analytics, companies can gain valuable insights into consumer behavior, preferences, and trends, allowing them to tailor their offerings accordingly.

Third, prioritise employee well-being. Recognise that healthy and engaged employees are the foundation of a thriving organization. Implement comprehensive wellness programs that go beyond traditional healthcare benefits. Offer mindfulness training, stress reduction initiatives, Chiropractic care and resources for work-life balance. By investing in the well-being of your employees, you foster a culture of productivity, loyalty, and innovation.

Lastly, cultivate strategic partnerships. Collaborate with other organizations in the wellness and healthcare industry to create synergistic solutions. By combining resources, expertise, and networks, companies can expand their market reach, reduce costs through shared investments, and provide comprehensive solutions to consumers.

By implementing these innovative strategies, product-driven companies can differentiate themselves, attract a broader customer base, and contribute to a healthier society while reducing overall healthcare costs.

Your radio show, “Self-Healing with Dr. Fab,” has reached a wide audience. What motivated you to start the show, and what impact do you believe it has had on promoting a positive lifestyle and self-healing practices?

The motivation behind my radio show, “Self-Healing with Dr. Fab,” stems from a deep desire to empower individuals and promote a positive lifestyle rooted in self-healing practices. The show serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, inspiration, and practical tips for cultivating well-being.

I believe in the power of education and the transformative potential of information. Through my show, I aim to reach a wide audience and provide them with actionable tools and insights that they can apply to their daily lives.

Each episode of “Self-Healing with Dr. Fab” is carefully crafted to engage, inform, and inspire. I incorporate stories, metaphors, and real-life examples to make the content relatable and accessible. I invite guest experts from diverse backgrounds and cultures to offer a wide range of perspectives and expertise.

Moreover, I actively encourage audience participation. I invite listeners to submit questions and share their own experiences, creating a sense of community and shared learning. By incorporating their voices into the show, I foster a sense of ownership and empowerment, reminding individuals that they have the ability to take control of their health and well-being.

The impact of “Self-Healing with Dr. Fab” extends beyond the airwaves. Listeners have reported positive lifestyle changes, improved mental well-being, and a newfound sense of purpose. By providing a platform for education and inspiration, the show acts as a catalyst for personal transformation and a gateway to self-discovery.

With your multicultural perspective, what lessons have you learned about the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity when delivering wellness and healthcare services to diverse populations around the world?

Here are a few key insights:

First and foremost, it’s crucial to recognise and respect cultural differences. Every culture has its own unique beliefs, traditions, and practices related to health and well-being. By approaching each individual and community with curiosity, openness, and humility, we can learn from their wisdom and integrate culturally relevant strategies into our offerings.

Second, effective communication is essential. Language barriers can hinder understanding and trust. It’s important to provide information and resources in multiple languages and utilise interpreters when necessary. Tailor your messaging to resonate with different cultural contexts, ensuring that it is relatable and accessible to diverse populations.

Third, foster partnerships with local leaders and organizations. Collaborate with community leaders, cultural influencers, and grassroots organizations to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by different populations. By working together, we can co-create solutions that are culturally sensitive, respectful, and impactful.

Finally, continuously educate yourself and your team about cultural diversity and inclusivity. Invest in training programs and resources that promote cultural competency and sensitivity. By nurturing a diverse and inclusive mindset within your organization, you can provide better care and services that honour and embrace the unique backgrounds and perspectives of each individual.

Remember, true wellness encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and it should be accessible to all, regardless of cultural background or socio-economic status. By prioritizing cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, we can create a world where everyone has equal access to the transformative power of wellness.

Frederick Penney: How a Resistant Foundation Took Me from Picking Peaches to Private Jets

Editor @ Global Man March 30, 2023 No Comments
Frederick Penney

Frederick, our guest speaker for today, has a busy schedule. He is a very well-known, popular, and successful businessperson.

In the United States, he has managed to build an empire by buying and selling businesses. He created one of the biggest law firms in the United States.

His radio show is definitively one of the top radio shows in the United States.

He supports entrepreneurs and women’s empowerment. His story tells us how he came from a very humble background. The person that Frederick has become today is a testament to his transformation.

When you see his journey and his success, it’s not something that happened overnight.

Frederick is very approachable, accessible, and supportive. He is a high achiever who works with others in communication to be there for them because he has already sorted out the existential need through his companies.

It’s not something that was handed over to him, but something he has built and made. Frederick generously shares how we can all do the same.

When it comes to success, I’m not really used to it. I’m used to struggling with every nickel. I’ve learned the three most important things in life, and if you remember these three things, as I always say, they will seriously increase your odds.
Three words: resist, resist, resist.

Frederick Penney

You have one of the most successful law firms—a definitive leader above competing law firms. In many ways, you’re already there. How do I get there and how does today’s Frederick Penney apply to everybody?

You can’t give up, no matter what. I’m not giving financial advice as a lawyer, but the odds of you becoming successful financially in your life are very high. If you follow a few principles that I’ve learned from three important women, you’ll succeed.

I’m a California boy, and I grew up in Southern California before moving to Northern California later.

I was raised by my mother, and I’m going to call her a Los Angeles woman. I mean, she’s an LA woman.

That’s all there is to it.

She loved the city. She loved the life of the city, and she taught me, much like my grandma Davis, about whom I will talk a lot.

My mother taught me how to love. She’s a very loving and kind person. One of those people that just loved everybody, you know! She’s the type that—as my saying goes, “I love everybody, but I just love some more than others”—cherished some more than others too. My grandmother on my dad’s side, as well as my dad, who raised us in a very rough household, also loved us highly.

My father, at 14, was on the streets. Biker gang kind of guy with tattoos, a tough Marine in the United States Marine Corps kind of guy.

He married this wonderfully sweet woman from LA, and that’s another whole story. But I want to talk about my mother’s mother, Myrna Davis.

Myrna Davis in the 1940s did something that most women couldn’t do or didn’t do. She opened her own supermarket, and she was one of the first women in LA to open a supermarket in the 1940s. It’s called Davis Supermarket. I’ve got pictures of it. I sat on her lap when she told me about it.

She was very entrepreneurial, a tough lady. Sweet and kind, but tough.

Wherever we moved, my grandma and grandpa would live near us. She calls me Freddy. Nobody else calls me Freddy; only she calls me Freddy.

Having lost a basketball game at 15, she asked me why I thought we lost. I told her I thought they were the better team, and then she said, “Well, why were they better?”

I said that because they were faster and made more shots. “Why did they make more shots, and why were they faster than you?” she asked.

She would not let me make an excuse because, remember, she’s been through an awful lot since the 1940s.

She did this often. But this time she really drilled down on me. She turned to me and said, “Freddy. Look, if you want to be the president of the United States, you just go be the president of the United States. The only one stopping you is you.”

Myrna Davis passed away in her twenties, and when they told her she had cancer, while everyone was upset, she turned to everyone and said, “We got to die of something.” And that was her attitude.

She was just a wonderful entrepreneur, a woman that just would not take no for an answer. Becoming wealthy takes time. For the vast majority, you don’t become wealthy quickly. I mean, it takes 30 years sometimes.

What is your philosophy, Frederick? Why do some people arrive sooner than some others?

I don’t know. Some people have approached me and said, “Fred, you were lucky.”

I put myself in a lucky position. So, I think if you put yourself in a position to become lucky, although some of it is luck, the positioning is important. The odds are in your favor, but you have to constantly grind, even in the right position.

Once, my dad and mom made me go work at Vega Brothers Ranch, where the saying is “from picking peaches to private jets.”

I started picking peaches in the fields when I was 13 or 14 years old, and that’s what I did every summer.

I learned all these lessons about working hard and coming from nothing. In fact, my controller—I have a full accounting department that runs my businesses—grew up in a single-wide trailer next to me as one of my best friends.

When it comes to success, I’m not really used to it. I’m used to struggling with every nickel. I’ve learned the three most important things in life, and if you remember these three things, as I always say, they will seriously increase your odds.

Three words: resist, resist, resist.

What do I mean?

Picture my friends buying big homes, Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Corvettes, and so on, while I stayed at home in this little humble house for 10 years and saved just about every nickel I had.

I invested in other companies. I invested in real estate. I bought companies; I built companies. I bought real estate. For 10 years, I stayed in that little humble home because I wanted to take that money and invest it. I resisted getting the Ferrari, and I resisted building the big mansion.

I resisted going out to expensive dinners. We went to cheap places. We went to Walmart and the $9-a-plate restaurants. That’s what I’ve done my whole life because it didn’t bother me that I didn’t have money. It didn’t bother me that I didn’t have those things.

Today, Penney Lawyers has offices in 45 states (46 with partners) in the United States. As I built that practice, I’ve always remembered the words.

Resist, resist, resist. It doesn’t matter if you make a thousand dollars a month. Or 150,000 a month. It’s still the same issue.

Resist, resist, resist.

How can we deal with the big problems—the mindset and personality factors that contribute to our success? Do you think genes have an impact on us?

People ask about my business sometimes, and I tell them I’ve never failed. Some people have the attitude that this is boasting. When it comes to being negatively minded, I think some people have personalities that are naturally formed that way. I have a PMA attitude—a positive mental attitude. I reframe others’ problems as challenges. We don’t have problems in life. We have challenges.

I teach people that.

You just keep going forward. And that’s the way I am. I started this from nothing and built it from nothing over 31 years. It doesn’t come easy. I just grind, and I still grind to this day, but I have a positive attitude.

I don’t look at the political aspect either.

It doesn’t matter what’s happening. I’m going to have a positive attitude. I’m going to adjust my sail on my boat, and I’m going to ride the winds of change. That’s the way I approach this.

What do you think can be done by people like you to bring more justice to this world?

Well, I mean, here’s the thing that’s interesting. That’s what we do. That’s what our partners do. We help people in the worst times of their lives. That’s what we do.

But when it comes down to some women who are in another country and have little or no freedom, this service and the circumstances change in a difficult way. It is hard to comment. I did come from privilege because I was born free in the United States.

I did not come from money. I did not come with a lot of the privileges that money buys across the globe.

It’s hard because some people have it much more difficult than we do. Even though growing up was rough, it wasn’t anything compared to other people in the world. I count my blessings on that.

It’s hard to say, “Oh, this is what you need to do,” when I’m coming from the United States or you’re coming from London, where we have a higher level of freedom and security.

What can be done, and what can we do? You just help people.

I open my doors to so many people. There’s a downside, unfortunately. Some people take advantage of it. I don’t have time for everybody to be helped. Help is what I instill across my companies, right? I don’t have just a law firm.

I have a fast-food restaurant, chains that I’ve built, water parks, and entertainment centers. So, I’ve done a number of things, but I try to teach staff to help others.

You do the best you can to help others, but you just can’t do it all across every population. It’s not just about money.

Everyone thinks it’s a question like, “Oh Fred, can I have 10,000?” but no. It is not. That’s not going to solve the problem. Helping people become more aware and mentally strong is part of solving the global issue.

To avoid getting overly political, I will not mention what the Ukrainian women are going through right now. I can’t understand it. It’s brutal. Right? And how do we help people across the country and across the globe?

I do the best I can, but I can’t solve everyone’s issues.

Everybody has a vision. So, if I ask you, what is your biggest mission?

At the end of our journey through life, we each have an epitaph, a couple of lines on our stone. But the grave and hole are the same size, rich or poor, and I saw a picture the other day drawing on this comparison.

What’s important are relationships. Children: I have children and grandchildren. I have a wonderful wife.

By the way, it is my wife of 37 years who stuck by me as a nurse and put me through law school. She has helped build this with me. She’s a little different, is very reserved, and does not want any fanfare. She hates fanfare, but she’s the rock behind me, right?

I admire her and thank her for putting up with me for 37 years. 

You are always dealing with legal issues, justice, and injustice, so what is something you practice that helps in managing and maintaining a positive mindset?

So that’s very difficult.

I’ll come across people in different states or in California who literally know my voice. “You’re the host of Radio Law Talk,” for which I’ll say again, we’re the second largest radio show in the United States.

It’s not a podcast; it’s a radio show that we podcast called Radio Law Talk. People walk up to me and say, We know who you are, and you’ve sued my family. You sued my company, and you sued this. There are thousands of lawsuits going on. My name’s on it.

I’ll tell you, that’s a very difficult thing that I’ve struggled with not knowing how to handle.

Unfortunately, that is how the world operates. I always say, “Well, that means I’ll help someone else out.” Maybe someone lost on the other end, but I helped people out.

I get it. People always say, “This person doesn’t like you.” I don’t like lawyers either.

I don’t like every lawyer, and I get it if I’m not liked by every lawyer. I’m okay with who I am, and I’m okay if someone doesn’t like me. I’ve learned that I should not worry if someone doesn’t like me.

That doesn’t mean I don’t want to do the best I can in this world. But if you worry about what everybody thinks of you and if they like you or not, you’ll go crazy and have a difficult time succeeding.

Someone who is too worried about that needs to know they just have to do the best that can be done.

Help others as much as you can and build relationships as best you can, and then move forward.

Tell us a little bit more about your radio show. How did you go from practicing law to experience big success in the media as well? Tell us a little bit more about your love for the media and your radio.

I met a guy by the name of Cal Hunter who is a three-time Emmy Award-nominated producer and/or newsperson. We came up with this collaboration, and, as I built my national law firm, I’ve developed on social media.

For those of you who do not know, it is Frederick William. Frederick Penny One is my Instagram, and I push social media a lot.

On a side note, our law firm has represented talkers, Instagrammers, and YouTubers out of LA. Because we are an LA office, I know a lot of these influencers, and they’re kids, by the way.

So, my producer says, “Why don’t you do a national radio show?” So, I said, okay.

I got on the local radio show, and I started Radio Law Talk. It was boring. It was the worst thing you could ever do. It was a legal discussion. And then I took the paper that I had all my notes on. I had all these notes on how I was going to run everything.

I threw it away, and I said, “You know what? Just be yourself.”

I studied the legal issues of the day and the cases of the day, and I just started talking, and that’s when it started to take off. Next thing you know, a JOR in Georgia, Idaho, New York, Chicago, all the stations, started picking up my show. Then we started building this six years ago, and now I think we’re in almost every state in the United States.

Stations pick us up. I have affiliate relations with a manager who just emailed me. Three new stations just brought us on for our next week and on to the week before.

This is my mantra for our show: “It’s the most exciting, entertaining, and only sometimes informative show on earth because we make it fun.”

Johnny Depp’s highly publicized trial was the greatest trial. I mean, we followed Johnny Depp’s trial closely. We talked about the legal issues. And the show has just boomed.

I built my own studio with Cal Hunter near my home, and it just continues to grow.

He and I built this thing six years ago, and it took off.

Upshift: Global Change-Maker Roger Casale on Love, Politics, and the Making of the World Upshift Movement

Editor @ Global Man February 21, 2023 No Comments

The World Upshift Movement was launched by award-winning civil rights campaigner Roger Casale and twice Nobel Peace Prize nominated Ervin Laszlo in Rome in November 2022.

Its mission statement speaks about working together for change from our hearts. Hearts filled with life, compassion, and solidarity with humanity instead of with hatred and fear.

Roger Casale has had a career in government, civil society, and business.

He founded the civil rights group New Europeans in 2013 and served as a Labour MP from 1997-2005.

As a government affairs advisor, he worked at board level in the aerospace sector in the UK and has also lived and worked in Germany.

Roger now lives in Rome with his partner Maria Antinori. On 21 February, Roger and Maria will be in London to present World Upshift Forum – the “feel-think-and-do tank” at the heart of the World Upshift Movement. To find out more, visit World Upshift Movement: https://worldupshift.org/

What inspired you to start the World Upshift Movement?

It’s a very kind question, but in fact the idea of starting the Upshift Movement was not mine.  I was asked to do so by Ervin Laszlo, the twice Nobel prize nominated Hungarian philosopher and systems theorist.

I was also encouraged to do so by my partner, Maria Antinori, who is a biologist and has always been fascinated by the relationship between spirituality and science and is the Chair of the World Upshift Organisation, the small company we have set up in London to coordinate the movement.

Ervin Laszlo’s life work points to the need to create a much broader movement than the one he has already built up, if we are to focus greater public attention on the future of humanity and what can be done to avert disaster. I think he saw in me someone who could help him create such a movement based on my experience as a former Member of Parliament and civil rights activist.

What inspires me most about the World Upshift Movement, is the realisation that there is really only one very powerful resource which can really change the world for the better and that is the power of love. To paraphrase John Lennon – “All we are saying – is give love a chance.”

We don’t mean sentimental love or some kind or emotion here, but rather that universal regard for humanity which lies deep within us all – we just need to find it. That is why there is such a focus on meditation and mindfulness in the World Upshift Movement.

If we think about change in our own personal lives, we know that this often comes from the heart and not the head. The simple proposition of the World Upshift Movement is that if that is true for the individual, why should it not work for humanity as a whole.

What experiences did you gain from your time as a government affairs advisor?

Having worked as a Member of Parliament for eight years, including three years in government, it was a new experience to be on the other side of the fence so to speak, working from the outside into government rather than the other way around.

My most important experience was the realisation that there is no inside track and that it is not who you know but what you know that really counts. I knew quite a lot about how government and parliament work, and I knew it not from books but from experience. I was able to share this experience with clients to help them understand how to build an appropriate profile and transparent relationships of trust with political stakeholders.

I also learned about the importance of helping companies manage the risk that is generated from political instability such as the Brexit vote or the election of Donald Trump. It is not easy to navigate in a situation of political uncertainty, particularly as political change is driven by emotion not just by reason. I learned much by working through the key issues with board members and CEOs and advising on strategy to mitigate risk.

How has living in Britain, Germany and Italy shaped your approach to social change?

When you live in another country and learn another language you receive the gift of being able to see your own culture and country in perspective. It helped me to understand that wherever we are from, we have much more in common than divides us.

As a result, I now place a much greater value on the need to build consensus and to work across borders and boundaries. It’s easy to forget that we can learn a great deal even from people who we disagree with on certain issues or who are very different from us in other ways.

By chance, I was living in Berlin in 1989 when the Berlin wall came down. That has left a lasting conviction that change from below is possible and that freedom and democracy are precious values which we all have a responsibility to nurture and protect.

Can you tell me a bit about the work you did as a Labour Member of Parliament for Wimbledon?

I won the seat – which had been held for 50 years by the Conservatives – on a record 18% swing in one of the biggest swings of the night when Labour swept to power in 1997. Having won as Labour candidate, I worked hard to show my constituents that I was elected to represent them all.

My predecessor had rarely visited the constituency. On the other hand, I lived in the area and worked hard for all my constituents. People would sometimes say to me “I didn’t vote for you, but you are doing a good job for me.” That taught me something important about my job.

Although I lost the seat in 2005, I felt that I had set the bar higher in terms of how people in Wimbledon expected to be represented. In fact, it’s a kind of upshift! Wimbledon still has an MP who works hard for the community, albeit from another party. That’s what really matters to the people who live there.

In what ways can governments around the world benefit from the World Upshift Movement?

I think the best answer I can give right now is that we will have to wait and see! Much will depend on how fast the movement grows and whether the great work that is already going on is scalable.

I do think, however, that there is very widespread concern in many parts of the world about the quality of our democracy and the capacity of our political systems to govern in a climate of populism and fear.

By bringing people together for change from the heart, the World Upshift Movement can help generate consensus and refocus public debate.

Too often political arguments flare up at the extremes when what we really want the discussion to do is to bubble along in the middle! No one has a monopoly of wisdom and the best policy outcomes often come about through a more inclusive approach, including the use of citizens’ assemblies.

The World Upshift Movement will be working with organisations that promote deliberative democracy, including through citizens panels and citizens juries, which give ordinary citizens the opportunity to take part in decision-making between elections and not just when it’s time to vote.

Such an approach goes hand in hand with other aspects of our work at the World Upshift Movement. Without an awareness of our possibilities and responsibilities as citizens, it will be difficult to achieve the critical number of engaged citizens who can help us renew and strengthen our democracies.

World Upshift Movement: https://worldupshift.org/

 

Nurettin Noyan: The Touch of Beauty to Perfection

Editor @ Global Man December 8, 2022 1 Comment

The synonym of perfection now has a noun. Beauty doesn’t have to be difficult or exaggerated and Dr. Nurettin reveals how to go towards absolute beauty to us. Doctor Nurettin comes to Global Man as the voice of experience that reveals his path to success. His clinic in Istanbul has become the headline of beauty in the world and his example of success comes to our readers as a guide to perfection—because Nurettin is the voice of professionalism fused so beautifully with a touch of health perfection.

In recent years, Turkey has become a popular destination for health tourism. Why do you think that is?

Regionally speaking, Turkey was always a prime destination for health tourism. Patients from surrounding countries as well as other developing countries have been coming here to get treatments they couldn’t get at home. That created a healthy industry with experience and state of the art infrastructure. In time, we started to compete with other health tourism destinations and improved our service and operation quality to higher and higher standards. So, the success and the trend might seem sudden; however, although it’s been years in the making, of course the recent exchange rates didn’t hurt as the best doctors here become quite affordable to average people living in the developed world.

Dr. Nurettin, as one of the most well-known names in the field of aesthetic surgery, how has the road to success been for you?

Embarking on your own journey after medical training is like flying alone for the first time. When I was assigned to Erzurum Military Hospital as a military surgeon, I encountered various emotionally and professionally challenging cases. However, there was one patient that made my journey worthwhile. One day a soldier with a ruptured arm was brought to the hospital and his arm was so severely injured that there was a risk of amputation. I operated on his arm and stitched every damaged vein. After a couple of months, someone visited me at the hospital, and it was that soldier with his father. He pulled his arm out of his pocket and shook my hand with the arm I had operated on. So, it has been an emotional journey.

What are the moments that have marked your career?

Everything has started with my interest in geometry and mathematics. After I got accepted to medical school, I realised the strong bond and interrelation between three-dimensional thinking and surgery, especially plastic and reconstructive surgery. Soon, this interrelation became a source of enjoyment for me which led me to this specific field. After graduation, the experience as a military doctor, the great surgeons I had a chance to work with, and the variety of treatments I have been a part of, had built my confidence up.

Once I decided to leave my military career 7 years ago to fulfil my lifelong dream of having my own practice, all these past achievements and my skills as a surgeon have helped me to gain, and later strengthened, my presence in the field. During my career I have operated on many distinguished figures: one of them was an actress, for that matter, who had concerns about the aesthetic procedure and even though she had visited the most prominent figures in our field she was still not convinced.

After our conversation on breast augmentation, she placed her trust in me and chose to go for the surgery. She was so happy and satisfied with the result that she started calling me “lord of the boobs” with a smile on her face. Since then, the nickname also stuck with my colleagues and friends as they also started to call me Lotb. This name spread by word of mouth not only from patient to patient but also from doctor to doctor. Basically, this is the story of my career but the most defining moments of my journey always started in the surgery room.

Every operation has those moments where you had to excel using the best tool humans have: our hands. You had to keep undivided focus to give your patient that fine touch. This “tissue engineering” as one of my apprentices put it is the stone that built my career. And though I see our profession as a mix of art and science, I believe that’s why numerous fellow surgeons come to me for consultation and experience-sharing.

Noyan Clinic as a destination of perfection, what are some of the treatments or interventions that you can call your pride?

Personally, I find pride in making my patients happy. Every joyful tear or heartfelt hug gives me joy and pride.

Of course, each patient’s body is different and there are those moments you, as a doctor, need to execute a procedure in an innovative way for that patient’s circumstances. These moments are why I feel plastic surgery is also a form of art and these instances are like an artist’s brush strokes; although the procedure seems small and only a trained eye can see their effect, it nevertheless makes the end result what it is.

I professionally find these moments fulfilling. Academically speaking my dissertation on burn injury treatments is an important part of my legacy. I analysed two separate groups to find the most effective treatment. And it was fascinating to see that the results have effects not only on burn treatment but also in other fields. The citations and seeing the echoes of this research still gives me goosebumps.

What differentiates you from others?

Besides skill and experience you mean? 🙂 Jokes aside, I think my patients can answer this better than I do. But based on their testimonies I can say that they have always pointed out that I’m more than their surgeon. I am fond of having a deeper connection with my patients and some of them have become my friends.

Also, I never make my patients believe in unrealistic results or let them take unreasonable risks. I always communicate every little detail and explain the possible outcomes before planning anything. I think it all comes down to professional and ethical principles.

Most people know the phrase “primum non nocere,” (first, do no harm) Though it seems simple, this principle has wide and far-reaching consequences for any doctor. Some people might think this as a warning only for doing treatments that we know might cause harm. Not me. Even though it is not part of the Hippocratic Oath I take this principle to heart and refuse to employ any treatment that has not been scientifically established.

This is mainly because I think it also means a doctor should refuse to employ treatments that we don’t understand the consequences of. Therefore, I won’t employ certain techniques, won’t offer certain treatments, and won’t use certain materials. For example, I find it unnecessarily risky to use artificial fillers which I find medically ambiguous at best, instead of using scientifically well-researched and established state-of-the-art silicone implants.

Health comes first, then you take care of the rest. Besides working as a doctor, what is your role this time as a psychologist for your patients?

In the first chapter of one of the main plastic and reconstructive surgery books, it says something like this: “You are psycho-surgeons.” Plastic surgery is not just about enhancing a patient’s appearance, it is also about helping to enhance and boost her/his state of emotional well-being.

Understanding and sympathizing with the patient’s concerns and desires achieved and set aside, creating and explaining the possible solutions within the scope of medical science is crucial.

For instance, while a typical breast augmentation surgery takes around 45 minutes, surgical planning and answering my patient’s questions takes more than 1,5 hours. So, long conversations about the surgery and reassuring the patients is an important part of the process.

In your entire career, which is the most difficult, but also the most beautiful case you have taken on?

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancers in the world. Late-diagnosis of this cancer might lead to exhaustive treatments such as long radiotherapy sessions, major surgeries and even death.

In the case of an early-diagnosis, patients can go on with their lives with easier treatments and it is possible for us to preserve the original structure of one of the main femininity centers of the women’s body. But even in those early diagnosed cases it is such a challenge for patients and doctors to overcome this illness both physically and mentally.

When I heard you mention the words difficult and beautiful in the same sentence, I instantly thought of a survival story of one of my patients. She was in her thirties when she came to my clinic. Thankfully, she had beaten the cancer; however, her journey was far from easy or over. Her reconstructive treatment was incomplete and one of her breasts was severely damaged, and she lost one of the nipples because of some complications.

She was already mentally exhausted from fighting the disease and wanted to feel pretty and complete when she looked into the mirror. It was one of those professionally challenging moments where you feel the responsibility upon your shoulders.

I was happy she trusted me with her hopes and dreams, but I also knew what was at stake, so it was one of the most stressful cases for me. In the end it was worth all of it as she burst into tears with a smile when I removed her surgical dressings for the first time.

How would you define beauty today?

Beauty or the ideal face and body has been constantly changing throughout history. Certain body types were cherished at times and shunned during others. For instance, back in the early 1900s, they were all about S-bend corsets which emphasized women’s curves in an s-shape.

When we look at the 90’s women, thin and athletic, we realise that the preferred pear-shaped figures were out of fashion. But today beauty is about confidence and all I do is make my patients feel good about themselves using the state-of-the-art plastic surgery within the limits of safety.

Has the concept of beauty changed or have trends transformed it into perfection?

Perfection is unattainable, it is subjective and ever changing, there are certain principles guiding beauty such as symmetry but as a whole beauty today is much more subjective than before.

Have you had VIP clients?

First, I would like to emphasize that they are not clients but my patients. Each patient is a Very Important Person for me. However, if we are referring to prominent figures in our society then yes, I have had such patients from Turkey and all over the world who are famous singers, models, actors, and actresses like Seda Sayan who has also become a friend after her operation.

What is your life like when you take off your doctor’s suit?

When I’m able to take it off, I’m often enjoying a peaceful night with my lovely wife Oya, my daughter Eylül and our dog Venus. One of my guilty pleasures is to read books when they go to sleep and it’s all quiet. These days I’m reading science fiction books and political-history related ones.

Yet honestly, I would read anything. My three passions since childhood were football, music, and astronauts.

I can admit I’m a Fenerbahçe football fan, whose games I watch with enthusiasm. Music has always been there for me when I needed to take my mind off things, and playing my electric guitar is one of life’s delights.

I also started dancing folk dance at the age of 30 and have represented my country in international competitions. I’m not big on computer games except for aviation simulations where I fly planes occasionally as a substitute for becoming an astronaut.

The best motto that would describe you?

I’m one of those hopeful people, and whenever I face a dead-end I always say that there is and always will be hope and a solution somewhere.

So, I refuse to lose hope.

This is not a motto but a mindset for me, that transcends my professional attitude into my perspective. I never give up on my patients and pursue every possible way to find hope for them. So, I can admit saying: ‘’Don’t lose hope’’, quite often.

Kidd W: My Ultimate Dream; My Absolute Drive

Editor @ Global Man November 23, 2022 No Comments
Kidd W & Co

Kidd Waya is a Nigerian, UK-raised actor, TV host, social media sensation, entrepreneur reality star of the new UK 2-part documentary—how the other half live—debuting on channel 5. Kidd strives to produce insightful, inspiring, and entertaining content and at the same time tackle stereotypes to represent todays multicultural British Community more accurately.

Kidd Waya is a former broker and lobbyist, who graduated from Nottingham University with a degree in Business Management and Marketing and a master’s in international business management. Born in Nigeria and moving to the UK at age 6, Kidd has long strived to shift mindsets and change old narratives through his work as a brand ambassador, presenter, actor, business owner and emotion-fuelled content creator.

“I feel like this is just the beginning and people are yet to see the best of Kidd.”

You have a strong background in health and fitness that might have contributed to your success. How would you define health and how do you think it contributes to individual success in the long-term?

When you have a healthy body, you have a healthy mind—and when your mind is healthy, you’re able to make better decisions.

So, you’re able to have more energy making those decisions and your overall performance simply improves. So, when I am asked what the correlation between health and individual success is in the long term my answer is simple and intuitive. You’re putting yourself at an advantage by being healthy.

Your mind is fresher, your body is fresh, you feel fresher. Your alertness is heightened. Your confidence is up. There are so many benefits to exercise. Moreover, these feelings lead to a clear profit: you can create more, to take more risks, to put yourself in a more advantageous position to be successful.

Kidd W & Co

What are the three most important things that stand between you and your ultimate dream?

Well, the first thing that stands between me and my goal is my mind. Of course, I’ve gone through my fair share of mental illness and it’s a constant battle a lot of people know about. This battle wages between my mind and my body. That’s something I had to do for a while; that is something that definitely gets in the way.

The second thing is my absolute hunger. Starting from a privileged background, I lack the hunger that someone else who is not from a privileged background may have been forced to develop. That drive and desire makes you want your ultimate dream more. I often think and do believe that this is something that only comes from the adversity people who are less fortunate have to face.

The third obstacle I am overcoming is an absolute safety net of being comfortable where you are—this comfort zone. Desperation, the kind that arises out of a mind forced to live on the street, a mind at its absolute lowest, positions you so that you have nothing to lose.

When you have nothing to lose, you become a very dangerous man, a dangerous person. I feel like having a safety net has taken that edge away from me. This can stop me from achieving my ultimate dream.

What was the most recent idea you have had that you have felt was particularly successful?

My company which I started earlier this year is a particular success I am proud of. I brought this company to fruition even though for some time now it’s been “in the works.” Yet this year I decided to actually bring it to life and so far I have been very successful.

I have had great partnerships with big corporations such as Ibis Hotel, one of which I did a campaign with not too long ago. If I might add it was very successful. Just this month I have celebrated a successful Fintech conference which was great. I also manage a lot of talent; I do a lot of brand campaigns—all in a short space of time – within three to four months.

My company, Kidd W & Co has seen a lot of success. Naturally, I am extremely proud of Kidd W & Co.

Who has been the most influential person in your life, and why?

That energises me to do better, to prove myself wrong.

It has to be said that the most influential person in my life has been me and the state of my mind. The state of my mind reminds me every day that this could be taken away from you, and it reminds me that we certainly are all human.

Sometimes this means you’re not as strong as you thought you were. That energises me to do better, to prove myself wrong.

With a strong educational background and a master’s at a prestigious university, you have achieved rare academic success. What are your thoughts on the educational system? Would you say it empowered you and if so, how?

The educational system is flawed. Unfortunately, they don’t teach a lot of vital things, things that are very important in today’s society.

They don’t teach you how to make money nor how to manage money. They don’t teach you how to become a better person nor how to negotiate. They don’t teach you how to be “street smart,” nor how to protect each other and protect yourself.

There are so many things taught that in fact do not apply to today’s society. What the prevailing educational system does teach is how to work for another person and how not to be your own boss; moreover it gives you very outdated tools. For me, the educational system is more of a tick box for your parents. Yet there’s more of a place for the opportunity to go and connect and network with people, make friends, discover a new talent, and so on. Now don’t mistake this: today’s education is far from valueless. I’m asserting it’s not as valuable as it used to be.

Yet and still, I would recommend people go to schools, colleges, universities, but I would recommend it for different reasons. As opposed to going there to try and get a career or to try and make your life a drastically better, there should be more emphasis on going to university and uncovering the discovery of your true self—who you are.

What fuels your daily routine? What would you say intrinsically motivates and drives you?

What drives me and motivates me is the fact that all of this can be taken away in a blink of an eye. Evidenced and proven by the facts—that I’m not where I want to be yet, I haven’t achieved what I want to achieve, and I have so much to offer—I feel like this is just the beginning and people are yet to see the best of Kidd. Another key motivation for me is that the potential in this world is limitless – endless, even. It is very well-said of me that I am someone who has been very hungry for success from the start in spite of my privileged background. I’m someone who was still hungry, still pushing.

Kidd W & Co

How do you stay grounded, despite all the fame?

Leaving my comfort zone and entering into unfamiliar territory was less comfortable but offered a zone where was able to think more and redesign who I am.

I had to leave my comfort zone, which is Nigeria, because I knew that the fame was hindering my progress. It was beginning to affect me, and I realised I soon became way too comfortable. So I took myself to an environment where I could feel less famous. I could feel like a normal person, which would make me work a lot harder to become famous.

It’s almost like a blank canvas and starting again. When I moved to London after the Big Brother show, it was almost like redefining who I was, who I am and who I am going to be. That’s how I stay grounded. I position myself and that’s what’s kept me grounded all this time.

Leaving my comfort zone and entering into unfamiliar territory was less comfortable but offered a zone where was able to think more and redesign who I am.

How do you think social media has changed the consumer landscape in Nigeria?

It is changing and changing massively. I mean, you can travel anywhere on this planet’s four corners upon the click or tap. You can type in “comedy,” you can type in “food,” you can type in “action,” you can type in “music” and find it delivered to your very fingertips.

It has made things a lot easier for entertainers to showcase talent, music, art, and this for everybody. I do not shy away from persuading people to get into it. I feel like it’s a way out of poverty and the hardship that we have in the country.

Nigerians are very joyful people. They’re very entertaining people and very happy people. They love to entertain, to laugh, to have fun and they love to smile.

I think social media is the perfect escape for them as it was for me. And I feel like now it’s a growing market amidst a growing consumer base and it’s getting exponentially bigger because there’s more money going into it.

We have the most loyal fan bases in the world. Speaking personally, my fanbase is amazing! It is full of girls and they’re simply amazing, supportive, and very engaging. That is just a testament to how strong the Social Media and online community is in Nigeria; further, not just in Nigeria but also in Africa. This Social Media presence will only grow bigger and bigger and I can’t wait to be a part of that journey.

What would you like to change within the next 5 years?

The one change I would like to see within the next Five years is in my will power. I want to be at a point where I can say yes or say no, and be precisely decisive—to stick to my decision. I feel like I’m easily influenced by a fear of missing out. That is hinders my progress quite a lot. So I want my will power to improve so that whatever I say, I could just stick to that and nothing else.

Arthur Samuel Joseph: Own Your Power Through Your Voice

Rochelle Martin August 19, 2022 No Comments

The empowerment of others through voice is truly powerful. Arthur Joseph is known as one of the global leaders in communication. He believes that if you own your voice, then you own your power. Arthur is the founder of the Vocal Awareness Institute, where you are trained and taught to become a master of communication.

“THE ROOT OF THE WORD INTIMATE IS INTIMUS, MEANING INTRINSIC OR ESSENTIAL. IT IS INTRINSIC TO BE WHO WE ARE, AND ESSENTIAL THAT WE MUST BE.

What are the fondest memories you have of your childhood?

My fondest childhood memories actually begin when I was two, when my Mother took us to see the classic British film, “The Red Shoes” in 1948. The arts were always very important to her, so when she wanted to see something I accompanied her. The first transformational moment of my childhood occurred when I was four and I had my first accordion lesson. I knew then that music would be my life. At the age of 12, in the 7th grade, I joined the choral group, the Hi-tones, and knew that singing was my musical direction. My next seminal experience came at 15 when I began studying voice with my first teacher, Mrs. Julia Kinsel, whom I studied with for several years.

As a teacher with over 57 years of experience, when did your love for academia begin and what would you credit your success to? 

My love for academia has always been in my DNA. Ever since childhood, I have been a voracious reader and loved learning. Discovery, researching and truly understanding a myriad of subjects are foundational to who I am.

Having had the privilege to teach for almost 60 years, I credit a good portion of my success to the originality of the work, my integrity and the integrity of the Vocal Awareness process. In addition, when someone works with me, they implicitly know that I care, I am passionate about what I do and am trustworthy. Voice is the most intimate art form. The root of the word intimate is intimus, meaning intrinsic or essential. It is intrinsic to be who we are, and essential that we must be. When one allows me to train their voice, they are also entrusting themselves to me, and that trust is sacrosanct.

How was your experience mentoring individuals, from politicians to professional athletes, and what did you learn from this? 

One of the aspects I have always been fascinated with about my work is the breadth and depth of my relationships. There are certainly myriad numbers of voice coaches, teachers, and media trainers… but there is no other practice that I am aware of that trains across the board in virtually any discipline from the arts to athletics, singing, broadcasting, public speaking and leadership. Everyone learns the same Vocal Awareness techniques; learns to embody the same rituals. Depending on whom I am teaching, and for what purpose, the application may change, but the principles never do. One of my paradigms is, “Structure does not impinge; it liberates. Freedom without direction is chaos.”

“I WILL NEVER MAKE YOU INTO SOMEONE YOU ARE NOT; RATHER, I WILL HELP YOU DISCOVER AND MAXIMISE WHAT IS POSSIBLE.

How did you embark on your journey as the founder and chairman of the Vocal Awareness Institute?

I began teaching at 18. Vocal Awareness was fully concretised in my early 20s. My entire practice has virtually been built through word of mouth. From the very beginning, I have been cognizant, albeit it has certainly evolved over the years, that I am teaching Mastery. Mastery in any discipline is only achieved when one integrates mind, body and spirit. In that regard, I have had the same spiritual/meditative practice for 56 years and have literally never missed a day. I say this for no other reason than to say that whatever I do in life, personally or professionally, I strive to do while integrating mind/body/spirit. (Again, the root source of two important words in my lexicon—integrity and integration—have the same root source. They mean wholeness.) The point of sharing this is that from the beginning of my career to the present day, I and the work continue to evolve but the foundation has and will never change.

What tips can you gain from the programmes taught at the Vocal Awareness Institute?

I always tell my clients/students, “I will never make you into someone you are not; rather, I will help you discover and maximize what is possible.” I also say, “I cannot empower you; that is arrogant. But, I can help you empower yourself.” Thus, each of the 7 Rituals, beginning with Stature, which is preparation for the Rituals, are quickly and easily accessible by anyone. When you claim yourself as an individual of Stature, you immediately learn how to be who you are instead of present who you are. Or experiencing the 1st Ritual, which is to say “Thank you to Source.” In both instances, the body’s first impulse is to inhale. Thus, you are beginning to change state. In this regard, through these first two Rituals, we are beginning to establish new neural pathways. 

I used to train the noted motivational speaker, Tony Robbins. He would refer to my 7 Rituals as ‘pattern interrupts’. He would say “To break an old pattern, you have to exaggerate behaviour to create a new one.” For us to break the patterns of ‘habit’ requires us to be in the 6th Ritual of Vocal Awareness, “Pay Attention; Deeper Listening.” We become very keen listeners inter- and intra-personally through this work. 

To assure that I do not make you into someone you are not, I ask you to craft your Persona Statement. The root of the word ‘persona’ is through the sound. One’s identity is largely conveyed through the sound of the voice and an opinion established instantaneously. Thus, your Persona Statement answers the question, “How would I ideally like to be known?” Then going forward, everything we do in Vocal Awareness strives to align with your aspirational Self. There are certainly so many other critically important principles and techniques. Even with these few, you can begin to claim the person you desire to be.

What does it mean to change the world through voice?

My Mission – To Change the World Through Voice – has never wavered. Voice is vibration. It is energy. Over 50 years ago, I was at a seminar with the creator of Transcendental Meditation, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, when I heard him say, “I want to have a billion meditators on the planet to shift the vibration on the planet.” I want to have a billion people embodying Vocal Awareness to shift their own vibration and energy, claim their sovereignty and thus impact the vibration of the planet. As I approach my sixth decade of teaching, I realise this is my ‘legacy time’. I have been given profound work to share with the world. Thus, I am looking to create a movement I call the ‘Human Achievement Movement.” 

I have created a teacher training program to enable this work to be carried on for future generations. I am partnering with my dear friend/student, the extraordinary Jennifer Hill, in creating a number of online courses. With another amazing student/partner, June Bayha, we have created a program for youth she calls Work Wonder, and Vocal Awareness is a critical component of their learning. I am also in the process of writing two more books. My Journey is a privilege, and I am truly blessed to share it with so many.

In Conversation with Dr Ervin Laszlo: Part 2

Editor @ Global Man July 14, 2022 No Comments

Having turned 90 only last month, it’s hardly surprising that Dr Ervin Laszlo has a lot to say – and that’s before taking into account his distinguished portfolio of philosophical work and research. 

In part one, Dr Laszlo spoke to Global Man‘s Yassin El-Moudden about his beginnings as a young musician leaving Stalinist Hungary for piano recitals on the other side of the Iron Curtain. Discussion also concerned his influences from Bartok to Plato and parallels between the tumult of the 20th Century and the world crisis today. 

With the second and final part of this interview, the intriguing philosopher of science turned to focus on the present and the future. Relating to his involvement in the Upshift Movement, Dr Laszlo takes on accelerationist growth, inaction on climate change and historical determinism. 

Q: There’s an interesting point you made at the end (of part one) about making sure we move forward. History is a topic that quite a few philosophers have grappled with – I think of Walter Benjamin and his notion of history. So, am I right in understanding that you see history as being of a cyclical, rather than linear, nature. It can go backwards, instead of always progressing?

A: Well, that’s the case with any process which is not a deterministic process. There are no laws that define and decide what is to happen. In such a situation, that includes freedom – which in a negative sense is chaos, in the positive sense it is opportunity. There is an element of freedom to choose, to choose the way we want to go.

There are limits to nature – these are the limits of life – but we have to choose if we want to exempt ourselves from the limitations and possibilities of life on earth, which means the ecology of our living systems on earth. To exempt ourselves, go our own way and just try to subdue what is around us, that is the way big business and big government have been moving in the recent period, producing the unsustainability. The crisis – I think, even the health crisis – is human-made, by probably bringing in (for instance, the food chain) elements that don’t belong, because you’re always using everything that is possible to use as long as it makes some profit.

Q: How do you go about changing that? 

A: So, I think the opportunity of making use of this freedom, is here and it is now. We need to introduce the values, the mindset, a new paradigm. It’s what the Germans call, Weltanschauung – an overall “worldview”. Right now, it’s become antiquated.

We thought it would be scientific, that it would compete, because “the strongest survive” as Darwin said. It’s a mistake. Not even Darwin said that, but his followers interpreted it like that. Or that everything is moving according to rigid mechanical laws, that the universe looks like this and humans can’t interfere – that’s the Newtonian heritage. So, we thought it was scientific.

It turns out the new sciences talk about interconnection, non-locality and consciousness having a dominant and key role in life. It’s very different. Quantum physics, quantum biology, psychology and now, emerging trends in society and politics as well. This is a time to change. Above all, we need to change our mindset, so we may change our values and behaviours.

If we can change ourselves, we can help the world around us to change. As you know, Gandhi said “be the change you want to see in the world”. That can be contagious, it’s more contagious than any virus – in a good way, of course.

Q: If we focus on Hungary, after the collapse of the communist regime in 1990, how would you rate the transition from communism to liberal democracy?

A: Under communism, the regime belonged to a left-wing extreme and now it is very much of a right-wing extreme, which may or may not last. It is clear that it is not a truly open, democratic system and that has been the case for the last decade or so.

Q: You’ve talked a lot about the need for change from within. Regarding your involvement in issues such as the environment, what is the role of structures in combatting climate change and building a better world? 

A: You need a democratic society. You need a society that recognises that there are limits to growth. The role here of being aware of who we are is of great importance. Climate change is a key test, actually. We have ignored our belonging to the systems and ecology of life. We are deforesting, we are over-mining, we are polluting, because we thought that anything can be done – anything that is technically feasible.

New technology can be employed to make a profit and as long as that is the case, there are no other boundaries. Sure, there are some laws that we need to respect, otherwise we’ll be caught, as it were. Yet, within these laws, we can do whatever we want without any regards for the consequences and that is the kind of classical liberalism which has backfired. This is because there are natural constraints on structures, on what we can create, on who we are and what our societies are.

We have to act within the confines of the processes of life. By going beyond, we have created artificial forms of living. Artificial foods, clothing and modes of communication that have created negative feedback. The consequence of this is more unsustainability.

Q: That’s intriguing. It reminds me a bit of what somebody I previously interviewed once said. Essentially, even when we develop new technology, we reproduce old ways of thinking within that. When you mention ‘negative feedback’, is it the artificiality that is the problem or what we, as humans, instil within it? 

A: It’s the lack of recognising that not anything we can do, we should do. As long as it makes a profit. That created a human system on earth, that is moving in the direction of being a cancer (even if it is not exactly that). It reproduces itself at the cost of the planet, which is what a cancer does.

Q: Are you optimistic about the near future? 

A: The horizons are shorter than we once thought. The problems are becoming much more acute, much more visible and they are not new problems.

Tre Lowe: When Success Wins Over Pain

Editor @ Global Man April 20, 2022 No Comments

 

We all know him as Tre, the successful artist, the inspirational mentor. But few know that behind this image stands a story almost like a fairy tale with a happy ending. This is the story of a man who refuses to give up no matter what challenge he faces, of an artist who is inspired by his strength and faith. With a successful career and a myriad of achievements behind him, Tre has created a legacy he is leaving for his family, but also his fans.

 

In your career, you have known only successes, at least in the eyes of the public. But for you, who have been on this journey, how would you describe it today?

I would definitely describe it as tough. I know it’s a cliché to state this, but people think success just happens, that it happens quickly, and that you’re lucky. But success is a long bumpy road. Especially when you grow up as poor as I did. The path to success should be tough, it’s the battle, the trials, and tribulations, the setbacks, the pain, the highs and the lows. These things allow you to savour the journey. In fact, without these tribulations, there would be no success – because these are the things that fuel you. Our biggest record, Body Groove, came about because one of the guys in the band, Kevin, who had a recording studio at his house, decided to leave my brother Ashley and me to go solo. That caused problems for us as we didn’t have our own studio, and it was expensive recording records in those days. The sheer frustration of that situation is what led to the writing and creation of Body Groove – our biggest track. I call that pain Juice. I always speak about the power of pain – there’s no better fuel. Looking back today, I would describe my success as simply beautiful. Not just because this little boy, with all his insecurities, achieved a childhood dream, but because that pain-fuelled dream allowed me to create a life of service, and there’s nothing more beautiful than that.

 

Tell us a little about the days when you started creating, what inspired you? How did you create successful music for your audience?

Several things inspired me as a musician. Firstly, my upbringing. Growing up in a Nigerian household, my parents would have numerous parties. I think I became hooked on music whilst still in my mother’s womb. The fact that we grew up in the cultural melting pot of Notting Hill was also crucial to the sound my brother and I created. Back then, especially Notting Hill was one of the most vibrant, creative places in the whole of the country. It had such an eclectic mix of people; artists, designers, musicians, painters, actors, just so much creative energy, a real bohemian vibe. Also, a beautiful mix of ethnicities and cultures. A huge West Indian community, Portuguese, Spanish, Moroccan, and an increasingly white middle-class population as the area gentrified. It all created a crazy melting pot that drew every drop of creative juice out of you. This was cemented by the annual Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival. I loved the reggae sounds, the noise, the steel pans. It was impossible to not be creatively inspired! Musical influences were also key – I loved classical music. I’m a huge Beethoven fan, like me, he suffered from tinnitus – he’s one of my heroes. My brother Ashley had a love of salsa and music from South America. All of that added to that mixture of Nigerian, West-Indian, British pop sounds, fused with elements of American Hip Hop, R&B and house. You hear it all in Body Groove. It’s difficult to not have success with that much life poured into it!

 

In addition to career success, you have also encountered health difficulties. How do you remember those days?

Man, those days were tough at times. I always describe it as the best and worst of days. I had been in hospital as a young teenager for an appendectomy. The operation went well, but I was given a drug overdose during recovery. This caused me to become paralysed twice. When I emerged from the second paralysis, my whole world had changed. Everything looked strange. It felt like I was in a dream. I had a strange sensation at the back of my head, and a faint ringing in my ears. I didn’t know what it meant, I just knew I couldn’t live like this, and I was terrified. The doctors said it would fade, but it didn’t, it just got worse and worse over the years. By the time we did Body Groove, ten years later, in the year 2000, my health had really deteriorated. Life was often challenging, one day it was the high of appearing on top of the pops – a childhood dream, the next, it was having my 8th brain scan at some private MRI clinic. Then being told by the neurologist – “good news, there’s nothing wrong with you”. I was distraught when I heard that, as I knew there was, and no matter what I did, I couldn’t find answers. I saw so many medical professionals over many years, but no one could give me any answers. I would often wait for the royalty payments to come in, just so I could try another possible cure, remedy, or at the very least, find out what the hell was wrong with me!

 

 

When did you realise that you could handle it? How would you describe the healing process?

I guess I always knew I could handle it. I grew up with a profound sense of faith. I was raised Roman-Catholic and the stories of the bible were burned into my heart. Stories of triumph against all odds, stories of faith overcoming fear. Though I had dark days, I always had that flame burning in me. Faith in God, faith in self, and this innate knowledge that all this suffering was for a reason. So, no matter how dark things got, that little flame never went out. And so long as that flame remains unextinguished, there was hope. Where there is hope, there is faith, where there is faith, there is power, where there is power, there is the ability to handle anything life can throw at you. In addition, there’s the potential to alter the world with that power. So, I clung on, safe in the knowledge that I was strong enough to handle it.

The actual healing process began with my closest encounter with extinguishing that flame. I’d always lived with the thought that if my health got really bad, at least I could hop off a tall building. That thought gave me comfort. I know that sounds crazy, but it had merit. It gave me a sense of control. Of course, I never really thought that day would come, because I loved life, despite my horrific conditions. But eventually, that day arrived. I had to stand at the edge of giving up and succumbing to the darkness. That crunch moment came in 2008, following a DJ set at a crazy loud venue in Fulham, London. I knew that night it was foolish to DJ there, the sound system had broken, and they had a makeshift stack of massive speakers right behind the DJ spot. But, by this point, my health had deteriorated so much, I didn’t care! So, I got drunk and DJed. The next day I woke up deaf in both ears. My tinnitus, which was already horrifically unbearable, was ten times louder. I had no way to escape it as it was ALL I could hear. I was faced with two choices; find a tall building to jump off, or dig deeper into faith than I had ever dug before, and relentlessly search for answers.

Thankfully, I chose the latter – I always knew I would, I loved life too much, and I knew, deep down, my suffering had a purpose. I searched the internet furiously, like a man on a mission, determined not to give up until I found answers. I remember crying my eyes out when after hours of searching, with no sleep, deaf, with screaming painful tinnitus, I’d stumbled on someone called “Dream Child” or something like that. She had a blog describing her dream-like condition and her suffering. I was overjoyed at finally finding another individual like me!! I couldn’t believe it, after all these years, it turned out I wasn’t crazy! It had a name – the dream-like condition that had caused massive anxiety was called derealisation, it was a dissociative disorder.

Hours and hours of research into the brain led me to the conclusion that my head pressure, derealisation, and tinnitus were caused by my brain’s response to the trauma of being temporarily paralysed twice all those years ago. My brain had tried to protect me by disassociating me from the trauma. But that caused a type of PTSD. Even though my body regained movement, my brain would not let go of the fear of paralysis happening again. The tinnitus, derealisation, and head pressure were the results, and they became the new source of fear and trauma, and the vicious fear cycle continued. It’s crazy what our minds are capable of.

This insight and experience proved invaluable in my becoming a mindset coach and mentor. I’d finally discovered answers, it had cost me half a lifetime, but I didn’t care. I was now free. Free from fear of the unknown. I incorporated powerful mindful techniques into my daily routine, powerful deep breathing exercises, being centred, affirmations, and so much more. This reversed years of chronic head pressure felt like a miracle. The tinnitus and derealisation remained, but I learned to live powerfully with them. The healing process took years, with ups and downs, but the pain is power. That pain juice – as I termed it, made me unstoppable. It helped me create an incredibly powerful mindset, and I knew my job was to set others free. That’s how I became a tinnitus awareness campaigner, and then started my coaching company – Alpha Clique. I was determined to bring this knowledge to others. Help them discover their greatness despite their circumstances. This ability to impact others was the fuel that helped me finally heal. Looking back, I am so grateful for all those years of pain and anguish.

 

 

From artist to mentor, what does this leap mean to you?

This leap means EVERYTHING!! Today I am so blessed to live a life that impacts so many people. I have spoken on tinnitus awareness all over the British press and beyond, reaching an audience of millions. I coached for 5 years with one of the world’s foremost personal development companies, helping to alter the lives of thousands of people. Every Sunday, I run an Alpha Clique room on the app Clubhouse, where I host and moderate discussions around all aspects of men and their mindset. This is delivered to a mixed audience, where people learn and grow in a safe space with incredible speakers. We have spoken to over 10,000 people on that app – literally helped avert male suicides by giving men a chance to share and be heard and allowing them to heal the traumas in their lives, especially around relationships. I have spoken at schools, institutions, and numerous places.

Being a mindset mentor also helped me during an incredibly difficult time last year, when my brother Ashley, the other half of the band, died unexpectedly. I resolved to celebrate his passing by releasing a new version of Body Groove. The odds of success were slim, post-covid lockdowns, with no clubs open to fuel the hype. Even my own family told me to give up. They could see the pain, and the toll, working on his music and the politics around the track was causing. But I have this deeply embedded drive in me, thanks to years of pain. I never give up – especially in the service of others. Body Groove is a song for the people, especially after the horrors of lockdown. The success of that new version of Body Groove is a rallying cry for people. Never give up, fight for what you believe in, enjoy every second of life, and be all you can be. All we can do is dream, then we die. That track has currently been streamed over 10 million times… a whole new generation has heard my beautiful brother’s infectious voice urging them to “let the body groove”. I am so grateful and excited for all the new music to come.

 

What advice would you give to young people today who wish to have a successful career

Get yourself a coach or a mentor – they will push you beyond yourself. Life happens in your discomfort zone, not your comfort zone. Surround yourself with positive people that believe in you, believe in you so much they will tell you when you’re rubbish or when you’re full of yourself. People that are raw and honest with you.

Then study your craft – lock yourself away and just beat on your craft! Whatever it is that lights you up, do it, and do it well. Ditch any notions of entitlement – the world doesn’t owe you a damn thing. On the contrary, you owe the world EVERYTHING. You owe the world every ounce of your creativity, your passion, and your talent. It is not yours to keep, it is MEANT to flow through you, to impact, soothe, and heal others. So, stop being selfish, stop making excuses, no pity parties. Use every ounce of pain as juice. That PAIN JUICE is golden. Use it, use every drop of it. If you can’t fly, run!! But don’t you DARE give up!

 

A music career and a career as a well-known mentor – in your eyes, what are you most proud of?

I’m proud of being able to honour my parents – their suffering and their sacrifices. I’m standing on the shoulders of giants, warriors that came before me. I feel proud that I’m able to honour them by creating a legacy that I believe will reverberate through time. I am far from done!

 

 

 

Two Worlds, One Sound – Combining the World of Music and Business

Editor @ Global Man February 16, 2022 No Comments

By Sujany Baleswaran

 

Two worlds, one sound – Oli Rose has experienced it both, a world on stage as one half of the musical duo iAm1 and behind the scenes turning the toggles of the music industry. From the intricacy of songwriting to the strategic nature of social media marketing, from music to business, Oli was presented with a 360 perspective to the industry. Joining forces with the Lang Lang Foundation as Global Development Director, Oli is on a path of territory expansion around the world, overseeing everything from program creation & development, to media and PR, and everything in between.

 

From a musical education at the University of Westminster to Creative Director of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, what was the catalyst that led you into the music industry? 

As a teenager, I started learning the guitar without any particularly serious intentions. My mum is a poet and she did a local radio version of Dessert Island Discs, where one of her song choices was James Taylor’s You’ve Got A Friend. I’m pretty sure I had heard it before but, for some reason, this time it just hit me on another level. Maybe it was in the context of my mum choosing it, or maybe I was going through a typical teenage slump and needed to hear it – who knows! Not too long after that, knowing I was a bit of a fan, my guitar teacher kindly offered to take me to see James Taylor live in concert (I was about 15). Long story short, it was like nothing I had ever experienced. I was totally mind blown, and from then on my life fully revolved around music.

 

You made your musical debut after graduating from university, after being discovered by legendary music producer Cameron Mcvey as part of music duo iAm1. The duo is often described as two different styles, backgrounds and influences. Can you tell us more about this contrasting nature of iAm1? 

My musical partner Jamie and I were put together by complete chance as part of a performance module at the University of Westminster (we were doing a commercial music degree). It was the two of us and about four other musicians. I was a singer-songwriter, and Jamie was a rapper/MC, and we just clicked, simple as that. Clicked as artists, clicked as friends, and suddenly this unique combination of musical worlds became something that felt very unique, especially for the time. Everything about our musical influences was different, but somehow the way we channelled them came together effortlessly. It was an incredible and life-changing time.

 

 

You were the singer-songwriter of the two – what does your songwriting process look like? Where does your musical inspiration come from?

Our musical influences growing up were completely different genre-wise. However, I think we both connected to certain emotive elements in music, where genre actually doesn’t make any difference to the actual feeling. At the very beginning (2007/2008), I used to come up with a chord progression and singing part, mostly chorus ideas, and due to our lack of recording equipment/ knowledge, I literally used to play the chord progressions on a loop for as long as it took for Jamie to write his verses, to the point where often my fingers started to bleed. I barely even noticed most of the time! Years later, we scrapped that process for more conventional recording methods, which of course, had its benefits, but there was a certain vibe when we wrote like that which we would never be able to replicate doing it another way. The energy was so contained it was impossible to not be fully present in it.

 

Still in the music industry, however a very contrasting role, you went on to manage the social media on X-Factor, and later worked in social and digital marketing. What led to this transition in your career?

It wasn’t a particularly conscious change in my career as such – I was still very young and super open to new experiences. When I took on the X Factor job in 2011, the importance of social media as a marketing tool was still in the process of becoming more widely recognised in the mainstream. Back then, we had to really persuade people that it was important! The show wanted someone who had experience working with artists on a creative level to come in and connect with the contestants more personally in order to get the best out of them on social media. It was quite a dramatic shift of environment for me, but it felt like it could be a unique and interesting place to be, and more than anything, a crazy learning experience, which it most definitely was. I then continued to work in both areas simultaneously, working with artists in studios making music and working on the business side within digital and social marketing. It could be slightly conflicting at times, but I look back and realise how the combined paths have created quite a unique perspective and approach to everything I do.

 

 

Social media, marketing and brand presence are apparent when reading about artists or scrolling through Instagram and Twitter. How vital is digital marketing to an artists’ career and development? 

Digital marketing is essential for artists, as it creates a window into everything they do. If you break down how a fan base is recognised right now, it all stems back to social media. If you hear and love a song whether on the radio, on Spotify, or at a festival, the first thing you will do is go to the artist’s socials. If you like what you see and their page seems engaging enough, you’ll follow, and if the content is good enough to keep engaging with, the more you and subsequently others will see of that artist. That, in a nutshell, is pretty much how an artist-fan base grows in today’s world. Artists need to continually “feed their fans” in order to stay present. The key for any artist is to try and create an as honest and organic representation of themselves so people can connect with who they are. That side of being an artist hasn’t changed. The way in which fans have the ability to connect with artists is forever evolving.

 

You are currently the Global Development Director of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation. How did this opportunity come about? Where do you see the foundation in 5 years? 

I had actually been working with Lang Lang for a couple of years already as part of his digital team, managing his social strategy. He then asked if I could help out the foundation with the promotion of a virtual gala they were doing in late 2020. I then oversaw the promotion surrounding the virtual gala, which was a beautiful event, but alongside that, I developed an amazing relationship with the foundation CEO, Lukas Barwinski Brown, and the rest of the team there. By the time it was all finished, it was a no-brainer that I became part of the team, and the idea of taking all of my experience and channelling it into something so positive and impactful filled me with a different kind of energy and drive. So, in January 2021, I took on the role of creative director, where I created and lead the new initiatives here in the UK, such as the partnerships with Child Bereavement UK, Richard House Children’s Hospice, as well as opening doors for us to be able to start implementing our education program (Keys Of Inspiration) into UK schools. By the end of the year, it made a lot of sense for me to put even more focus on program and territory expansion, not just in the UK but around the world, and so I took on the role of Global Development Director. Motivating and empowering others within my work has always been a massive part of my drive, so to be able to do a job where that is the prime objective, specifically for children that really need support, feels like the right place to be. Our plan for the next 5 years is simply to keep creating and growing impactful and innovative program initiatives and to keep expanding our global reach in order to bring education, opportunities, and inspiration to as many children as possible around the world.

 

What advice would you give to someone wanting to make their mark in the music industry? 

My advice to anyone wanting be get into the music industry would be first, throw yourself into as much as you possibly can, wherever you possibly can. Immerse yourself in it, and don’t be afraid to jump in the deep end, whether it’s an opportunity that already exists or whether you need to create the scenario yourself. Secondly, following on from that, respect the journey. It doesn’t matter if some pathways lead to success or if they completely flop, you are always learning and growing, and that’s the most important thing. Lastly, specifically for artists and musicians, always try and remember why you wanted to get into the music world in the first place and stay true to those values.

Kelmendi – Bringing You a Piece of Home

Editor @ Global Man February 11, 2022 No Comments

promotional feature

 

By Sujany Baleswaran

 

From the Balkans to the heart of your home – Kelmendi GmbH global products have become staple products in millions of households, from Kosovo to Finland. The name Kelmendi is stamped with the approval of customers, a guarantee of freshness, delectability, satiety, quality and a taste of home. Stepping back from the jars of delicacies lined on pantry shelves, Kelmendi is the intricate concoction of business and traditions.

Starting with a small single shop in Essen, Germany, Kelmendi products were born and has now developed into an international company and a market leader in Europe. Valdet Kelmendi, a German entrepreneur with Kosovar roots is the man behind the global brand. Born in the village of Ruhot, to a large family immersed in Albanian traditions, Valdet tasted the beauty of secret family recipes. He learnt the first steps of his business, from those very steps, watching his father manage a grocery store in the 1970s, expanding the business further out in the Municipality of Peja until the 1990s.

 

 

When struck with the aggravated political situation and the persecution of hundreds who worked for the good of the country, Valdet was forced to leave his roots behind, emigrating to Germany. Uprooting his life came with challenges, days questioning the future but the thought of surrendering to those obstacles never crossed Valdet’s mind.

As a persecuted refugee, he worked as a clerk cultivating vegetables but it was in 1992, when he was employed in an international factory engaged in wood processing, DERIX, Valdet’s path began to change. Although a world away from his Kosovar roots and the comfort of food, his skills, tireless work and leadership rewarded him with the position of Manager of the Sales department, a foundation for the future.

 

The team behind Kelmendi GmbH, Valdet, Blerim and Oliver

 

An entrepreneur’s journey is always filled with the ups and downs of failure and success, but with determination and perseverance to create this business in Germany, Valdet rose from all the obstacles he faced. After repeated success and great will, Valdet turned to his dreams that began in Kosovo, sealing the deal in 1998 with the success of the Kelmendi company, with products not only being sold in Germany, but all over Europe. Touching upon every sector of food products from dairy to meat, Kelmendi products circle back to one thing, the unique taste of traditional and modern family recipes.

From the launch of products inspired by Albanian recipes, the food empire has branched out to numerous other societies and culture, creating your taste of home. The Kelmendi network has expanded to Germans, Baltics, Turks, Arabs and African and many others who have formed the pillars of success.

 

 

‘Preserving the spirit of cooperation without distinctions.’

Supplying products for over a quarter of a century, Kelmendi has grown immensely as a business, maintaining a leading position in the overall European ethnic food market. With growth at the forefront of the company, Kelmendi has not stopped at KELMENDI products, they have continued launching a stream of success stories such as NAKJA, ALBINA, BOSNA, Öz GURBET, KRISTAL, FUNDAM and MARRAKESH. Kelmendi food products have become synonymous with quality and tradition, achieving a high level of international recognition. With success after success and the increasing demand for products, Kelmendi GmbH, established their new company in 2018, Kelmendi Lebensmittel Ratingen, a symbol of growth. ‘In the business world there is always a target and always room to grow,’ says Founder Valdet Kelmendi. In 10 years, this food empire hopes to bring products closer and closer to customers all over the world. With goals set high, Valdet leaves us with the secrets of success, ‘believe in yourself, have a desire to work, value precision, and try not to work for money, instead find a way to make money work for you.’