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Archive for the ‘Interviews’ Category

Spring Eating for your Healthy Body

Monday, April 26th, 2010

We are all familiar with the old adage of Spring cleaning, but did you know that it doesn’t just apply to your closet? Spring cleaning is also important for our bodies and very helpful in flushing toxins, losing weight and creating increased energy. The best place to start your spring cleaning is with spring eating! Jamie G. Dougherty, owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling, offers us a fresh approach. Spring foods are light, water-logged, and perfect for cleaning out our systems of excess junk. Some of the most popular spring foods include:

Asparagus: High in potassium and folate which aids the cardiovascular system- Roast with olive, sea salt, and pepper with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Artichokes: A good source of iron and calcium- Steam and enjoy with your favorite vinaigrette.

Dandelion Greens: Aid in liver cleansing- Blanch, then sauté with garlic, olive oil, and top with currants and pine nuts.

Green garlic: Delicious young garlic plant that has anti-bacterial properties- A perfect addition to eggs or a frittata.

Radishes: Very high a vitamin C. Eat them raw or dip in hummus or your favorite dressing.

The best place to find spring foods it at your local farmer’s market where vendors will have the freshest produce available. Here is a perfect dish to get your started. Who ever thought spring cleaning could taste so good? Enjoy!

Asparagus and Brown Rice Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
Serves 4

For the Dijon vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon brown rice vinegar or red wine vinegar
Sea salt to taste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove or shallot, finely minced or pureed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

For the salad:

1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched for 3 minutes
Sea salt to taste
2 cups brown rice, freshly made or leftover
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, tarragon, marjoram
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, salt, mustard and garlic. Whisk in the oil, taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces and place in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Add asparagus to the rice and toss together with the Dijon dressing.

4. Add the fresh herb and pumpkin seeds and toss all together. Taste, adjust seasonings and serve. 

To reheat leftover rice: Place cold rice in a small pot with ¼-1/2 cup of water (depending on amount of rice). Bring to medium heat and let steam for 4-5 minutes, or until water has evaporated. Remove rice from the heat and mix with your dressing.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at: www.jamieliving.blogspot.com

Jamie is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Go on Girl, Light Your Fire: The Fire Starter Sessions

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Danielle LaPorte is all about keepin’ it real. She believes in telling it like it is, and is an avid believer in feminine power. Her latest project, “The Fire Starter Sessions” is an e-book for entreprenesses that comes with video and worksheets to help you get the most out of each sizzling session. The root of Danielle’s theory- which every woman can appreciate– is that our actions are driven by desired feelings. What other remarkable wisdom does she have to offer? We asked her a few questions to gain some insight on what really drives her and why her new book is so rockin’.

Once you let Danielle get you jazzed about your own inspiration, you lucky CRAVE ladies can pre-order a copy of the “Fire Starter Sessions” right now! Just click here.

You give people inspiring advice about following their passions in life, what sparked your own “ah-ha” moment?

It was more of a series of soul-sucking moments and gigs than an “a-ha” moment. But it all added up to creative sovereignty. My voice, my time, my way of being of service.

What makes the “Fire Starter Sessions” distinct from other programs for entrepreneurs?

It’s about rocking your revenue streams and doing meaningful things in the world. It’s as much about self-realization as it is about hard core strategy.
Each chapter is it’s own “Fire Starter Session” that includes: e-book components, video inspiration or interviews, and worksheets. Some of the sessions are: True Strengths & The Metrics of Ease; Branding: Clarifying the Diamond of You; Products & Services: Making Stuff That Feels Good to Make; Money: More is More, Enough is Plenty; Web Design & SEO: Your Virtual Real-Estate…Whether you’re in the early idea phase or a rut, it’s about lighting a fire under your…aspirations.

Summarize your teachings into a motto for how you/to live your life.

Your truth is worth it.

Would you give the same advice to a female business owner as you would give to a male?

Yes. But a woman is more likely to take it.

How would you describe your number one strength?

Deep listening. I also build a mean campfire and write bad poetry – which I consider an endearing strength.

Why do you believe it is that so many people do not choose their career path based on their true passions?

Profoundly wanting to belong. That will never change. On top of that deep driving psychology, we pile on social “norms” like dress codes and executive titles, salary structures, everything the goddamn Jonses are doing, and the popularity contest that is social media itself, and well, it’s the makings of an identity crisis.
If can you tune out the noise of “how-to” and “10 steps” and “proven tactics” you will be able to hear your own spidey senses: genuine, sincere, with great reflexes, and it will tell you that you are the expert on you — and you know what lights your fire.

What has been your most rewarding experience with a client?

One of my favorite results of working with any client is helping them decide what they’re going to STOP doing. It makes me giddy. It often goes like this: I’m going to STOP…being the administrator. Worrying so much. Under-selling myself. Checking Twitter obsessively. Feeling the pressure to be so successful. I’m going to stop using my cousin as my web-designer.

It’s freeing for everyone. And freedom is the best part of being an entrepreneur.

Still want more? Order your very own copy of the complete “Fire Starter Sessions” by clicking here. You can also learn more about all of Danielle’s endeavors on her website, whitehottruth.com.

Interview with VertNY

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

It’s National Green Week and what great way to end it with an interview with VertNY, a landscape design firm dedicating itself to going green. Kristi Stromberg Wright and Martha Desbiens founded their company and is spreading the love all throughout the city with their fine choice in design. From backyards to front porches to roofs, these gals do it all with one mission in mind – to make New York City greener than it has every been before!

It’s not everyday you find a company that is going green and that is why we absolutely CRAVE their efforts!

What is your motto, slogan, or theme song?

Making ‘green’ beautiful.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Modern.  Fresh.  Green.

What are your most popular products or services?

We’re most often asked to design terrace or backyard gardens, but greenroofs and living walls are really taking off.

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?

We’ve been too shy about telling people how excited we are about the work we’re doing.

What’s a place that inspires you and why?

The view from the Empire State Building.  It’s inspiring to imagine the effect greening all of the roofs could have on the city’s attitude and environment.

People may be surprised to know…

New York City offers a tax credit for installing a green roof.

How do you spend your free time?

Out with family in nature.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?

Supporting public parks.  They are the living room for the entire city.

Find out more on how these gals are keeping their efforts in staying green at vertny.com!

An interview with Urban Signals

Saturday, April 17th, 2010

Have you ever had that feeling like there’s a lump in your throat and you can’t speak when you see someone pass by you but too shy to say hello? Or maybe just a simple staring game that is never ending? Turns out, Aubree Nichols didn’t want anyone to have missed connections when faced with this situation. She created Urban Signals, an app that could be downloaded onto your phone, so that you could see if that person is available and interested in meeting new people.

Everyone CRAVEs a good connection with the person they’re with! Find out more about Aubree and why she started her company.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?
I believe that people are meant to be with each other.  Connecting through technology is efficient and purposeful, but humans need in-person interaction and relationships to be happy.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
New Yorkers who post Missed Connections on Craigslist.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Innovative, Spontaneous, Human.

Who is your role model or mentor?
I have to say Oprah, for her authenticity and accessibility and my Dad, because he raised 3 girls and is still alive to tell and laugh about it!

What is your motto, slogan, or theme song?
My theme song is Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z with Alicia Keys.

My motto is “Urban Signals is Taking love back to the streets.”

What makes you feel most CRAVE – able?
A few freckles from summer sun, a monster afternoon nap, knowing I did my best, bear hugs from people who know how to bear hug.

What is your indulgence?
A massage, a “no work or no- think about work” day, Votivo candles, fresh flowers, and perfect sun-kissed highlights.

Check out Urban Signals’ website and download the app at urbansignals.net! In this wonderful city, you just might find the right fish in the sea.

An interview with Sweetriot

Friday, April 9th, 2010

From satisfying the CRAVE-ings of those who have a sweet tooth for chocolate to changing the world one cacao bean at a time, Sweetriot takes the concept of selling chocolate “peaces” to a whole new level. Sarah Endline, mastermind and chief rioter of Sweetriot, thought of such an amazing idea which inspired us to get to know her better.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Young. Vibrant. Natural. Sustainable. Stylish.

What are your most popular products or services?

Sweetriot’s original bite sized 100% dark chocolate ‘peaces’  (cacao nibs) dunked in 50%, 65%, or 70% dark chocolate and packaged in reusable, recyclable tins that feature original artwork by emerging artists.  Plus they are only 1 calorie per ‘peace’.

People may be surprised to know…

Dark chocolate really comes from fruit – the cacao fruit.  Due to its real origin, it is often compared with other super foods out there.  In fact, there are many antioxidant charts that show the power of cacao and it’s stronger than blueberries and red wine!

Who is your role model or mentor?

It’s interesting, as I don’t believe there is one person or beacon that has guided my life. It’s really a collection of people and experiences, which have led me to founding Sweetriot.  These range from my high school guidance counselor to an undergrad Dean to a former manager who founded a social enterprise to founders of other social mission businesses and more. There is wonderful diversity in these influences.

How do you spend your free time?

I read the New York Times religiously, and when the weather is nice, I love rollerblading through the streets of New York City, especially my Greenwich Village!  Dancing, travel, arts and culture, and especially time with my French amour are all cherished.

What’s a place that inspires you and why?

One of the many reasons I love NYC is because everywhere you look there is something creative and inspiring whether that be architecture, fashion, graffiti, museums, or food. You are surrounded by new experiences which trickle into your business and life.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?

I am passionate about business for social change.  I want to continue to create a sweet movement to fix the world, and we’ve started by sourcing and producing our cacao in Latin America to support the farmers and community. Our packaging is recyclable and reusable and features original artwork by emerging artist.  Sweetriot only uses all natural, healthy ingredients to make yummy dark chocolate ‘peaces’ products.

So the next time you’re in the mood for some chocolate, stop by Sarah’s site at sweetriot.com where you can shop and indulge with a cause!

An Interview with Jodi Arnold

Friday, April 2nd, 2010

The most amazing talents come from the most unexpected places. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Jodi Arnold moved to Brooklyn, New York to further pursue her fashion designing career. Creating a successful self-named label and amazing designs, she is a perfect example of a determine woman who sets their mind to achieve their goals.

Jodi’s designs are beautifully created to flatter all and that is why we unquestionably CRAVE all she has to offer! Check out some of the things she has to say.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Challenging, rewarding, changing

What are your most popular products?

We are known for hand crafted embellished clothing and art inspired prints.  We want to make women feel modern and confident without feeling like a fashion victim.

What or who inspired you to start your business?

I have always wanted to have my own brand.  I was inspired to take the leap of faith after having jobs that were so uninspiring and that put me in a box.

What’s your favorite fashion must-have or must-NOT-have?

There is nothing anyone NEEDS right now so I would say my favorite must have is confidence!

What makes you feel most CRAVE – able?

Being mentally and physically in shape.

How do you spend your free time?

Playing with my dogs, walking in prospect park, just wandering interesting parts of the city.

What’s a place that inspires you and why?

Tulum, Mexico… Where i go to cleanse my palate and reboot.

Describe your perfect last meal.

Some fried okra, catfish, and mashed potatoes finished off with a piece of cherry pie.

See Jodi Arnold’s Spring / Summer line now at jodiarnoldnyc.com!

Interview with Jo Laurie Design

Friday, March 26th, 2010

Jo Laurie, an international phenomenon and President of Jo Laurie Design, took the United States by storm with her exceptional talents in interior design. Traveling to and from four continents, Jo attributes her amazing insights to the influences of different cultures and incorporates them throughout her work. She not only finds the time to accommodate her international clients but also finds down-time to enjoy the simple things in life!

Her sophisticated and amazing talents are what we absolutely CRAVE, bringing new innovations to the table. Find out more about Jo and get inspired!

What is your motto, slogan, or theme song?
Don’t look back in life with too many regrets..this is not a dress rehearsal!

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Innovative, Bespoke, Cosmopolitan.

What are your most popular products or services?
For hospitality & commercial projects – concept origination, then implementation on all levels of interior architecture down to the website  and logo, if required. Residential – we turn you vision into a reality on time and on budget!

What or who inspired you to start your business?
Seeing my mothers generation not have the financial resources to escape bad relationships. Plus I love what I do–making a living from being creative. What a blessing!

If you weren’t running this business, what would your life look like?
Money no object–Winters in Australia, NYC Spring & Fall , Summers in Europe… painting.

Describe your perfect last meal.
Part of a great day in Paris March 13th, yummy desserts and a glass of champagne in the Hotel de Crillon, after lunch at Costes.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?
Women’s reproductive rights. Had I not been born in the west, I could have been barefoot with ten children and no education. I think we forget how incredibly lucky we are, and what we owe to previous generations.

Check out Jo’s website and some of her work at jolauriedesign.com!

An Interview with Poppies and Posies

Friday, March 19th, 2010
Poppies and Posies is not your typical flower boutique. Co-founders, Juliet Totten and Sierra Yaun, not only know how to make amazing assortments of floral arrangements but also how to incorporate their talents with event design. To top it off, these gals are not afraid to be hands on when it comes to making sure each and every event is seen at its best. Naturally, working together also serves as inspiration to perform, create, and ultimately achieve their greatest work!
Get to know more about Juliet and Sierra, and see why we definitely CRAVE not only their talent, but also their awesome senses of humor!

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Juliet: Challenging, really fulfilling, and awesome!
Sierra: Stylish, vintage, and unique.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

Juliet: Squeeze the toothpaste from the bottom of the tube not the middle.
Sierra: You can manifest anything you want for yourself.

What or who inspired you to start your business?

Juliet: It’s fulfilling to be able to apply all of the ideas in my head into something tangible that people appreciate. It really propelled me to channel that energy into a company.
Sierra: My mom… she’s an entrepreneur and I grew up working in her store.

In 10 years you want to be…

We both want be mommies with a flower shop.

How do you relax?

Juliet: I really love to read
Sierra: Yoga, gym

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?

Park picnics are the best!

What makes you feel most CRAVE – able?

We’re willing to push the envelope and try new things!  We like to keep it fresh.

Check out all of Juliet and Sierra’s wonderful creations at poppiesandposiesevents.com!

An Interview With Margaritte Malfey of La Palapa

Friday, March 12th, 2010


The passion that Margaritte Malfey exudes is absolutely inspiring! With a love and dedication to the restaurant business and providing customers not only with the freshest ingredients and the most delectable food, she is committed to offering an all around exceptional dining experience. This past week, CRAVE NYC’s 2nd Buzz Party was held at La Palapa, and we had the opportunity to sip on the most amazing cocktails and devour delicious food. With another great turn out of our most CRAVE-worthy women, we were thrilled that La Palapa was so generous to share in this experience and excitement with us. Check out the pictures and see what you missed!

New York City CRAVE Buzz Party at La Palapa

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Learn more about La Palapa and what drives the Margaritte, a woman that we most definitely CRAVE!

What is your motto, slogan, or theme song?

I believe it would be “10, 5, 1st, Last”
I am a very service oriented person and believe that this is passed on to our employees…
At 10 feet make eye contact, at 5 feet acknowledge the guest, be the first to speak and the last to speak. I say this all the time, even to someone that has been with us for ten years. I will say “what is 10, 5, 1st ,Last?” Carlos always rolls his eyes and smiles!

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

When choosing a partner , do not choose a reflection or mirror image of yourself, choose the opposite. With that, all things are possible.

What’s a place that inspires you and why?

I’m inspired by a place called Isla Mujeres in Mexico. It is a beautiful island in the Yucatan between Cancun and Cozamel. There is a seaside restaurant called Picos that truly inspires me with their home cooking and fresh seafood dishes. The ocean there is calm on one side and wild on the other side. There is also so much history about this place. There is even a turtle farm where turtles lay eggs.  (I guess I like this place!)

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?

I am very passionate about children. I have two children and everyday they make me laugh and I enjoy their friends. I along with two others have done two benefits for The Children’s Home in Nepal. We have raised funds that go directly to the homes, and this has helped them greatly. People do not know much about Nepal, but it is one of the poorest countries in the world. Nepal is a special place for me. I would like to start a non-profit one day for this cause, I hope that I will be able to accomplish that.

In 10 years you want to be…

In ten years, I want to own at least 5 more restaurants!

What or who inspired you to start your business?

I inspired myself to start my own business it has always been my dream. I worked my first restaurant job in Junior High School and after so many years I realized that I could make this happen, it just took me some time to figure out how, but I did it! I still have the journal that I wrote in 15 years ago with my goals and I am happy to say that I have accomplished many!

How do you spend your free time?

I spend all of my free time with my partner, my children, two dogs and a cat!

What is your indulgence?

My indulgence would be food…I love all types and all kinds……eating it, learning about it, cooking it!!!

Visit La Palapa at their 2 restaurant locations!

77 St. Marks Place (East Village) or 359 Sixth Avenue (West Village)

Visit them on the web at lapalapa.com!

An Interview with Jillian Wright of Jillian Wright Clinical Skin Spa

Friday, February 12th, 2010

Jillian Wright has dedicated her life to the pursuit of healthy, gorgeous skin. Over the last decade as a clinical aesthetician and spa owner, she has based her aesthetic practice on a trilogy combining her heart, mind and hands. Jillian believes that successful skincare practices need this exact recipe to deliver superior facial and massage treatments.  Jillian and her staff offer an array of skin and body therapies that are corrective yet, pampering in nature. Her mantra is that skin therapy is successfully delivered by achieving soft, strong, well-balanced, nourished skin – entrust your skin to her and we’re sure you’ll be pleased. Learn more about Jillian below…

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Innovative, results-oriented, downhome-luxe

What are your most popular products or services?

Microdermabrasion, LED, Microcurrent Lifting, acne treatments, pigmentation treatments, therapeutic massage and waxing services.

People may be surprised to know…

I funded the spa 11 years ago on my credit cards!

What or who inspired you to start your business?

My father inspired me indirectly throughout my childhood.  He moved here from Germany at 18, learned English and became a professional photographer.  He has been working now for 40 years.

Who is your role model or mentor?

Dawn Gantt from Bioelements.  Her wealth of aesthetic knowledge is awe-inspiring.  My secret role model is Erica Gragg who founded Escape to Shape.  She combines travel, fitness, culture and spa services and brings her guests to unique locations all over the world.  She’s my hero!

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?

Bigger isn’t always better.  A smaller, more controlled environment allows for better service, more creativity, superior therapists and refined hospitality.

How do you spend your free time?

I have two small children so most of my time is spent with them – going to the park, bowling, exploring Manhattan, going to the zoo, trying new restaurants and playing.  If I’m on my own, I love hiking, getting pedicures, going to the movies, cooking, reading and wine tasting.

What is your indulgence?

When I think of indulgence, I think of two ways to enjoy life.  The first is at the Plaza Hotel, drinking Krug Rose and enjoying caviar.  The second would be a retreat with Escape to Shape.

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?

I love going to dinner at least once a month.  We usually pick a tapas restaurant like Pipa to catch up with each other.

What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?

In business I CRAVE a well-balanced environment for my staff and clients that isn’t stagnant and is backed by honesty, loyalty and trust.  In life, I CRAVE living life outside the lines with new cultures, adventure and always pushing my emotional and spiritual well-being for greater balance and wisdom.

Visit www.jillianwrightclinicalskinspa.com