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TheFosterFirmWins.com • 404-559-8325 • June/July 2025
How Small Changes Can Help You Drop Pounds and Debt FROM FRAPPUCCINO TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM
What if skipping that morning mocha frappuccino could buy you a round-trip ticket to Greece and help you drop 55 pounds? That dressed-up treat from Starbucks costs $8 and has 800 calories — enjoying it 3–5 times a week will quickly rack up $160 a month and about 4.5 pounds to your waistline. Imagine the possibilities if you ditched that daily indulgence that adds up to almost $2,000 annually and opted for something healthier and more budget-friendly. By making a few simple changes to your daily routine, you could save money and invest in your long-term goals. Fasting and financial wellness can go hand in hand — both are mindful moves that have a lasting impact. I’m a health and wealth coach and have seen firsthand how simple swaps can make a difference. Just like saving money, intermittent fasting or healthier food options can be life-changing. Let’s explore how you can count calories and cents to build a healthier, wealthier future. I just finished a three-day fast myself that included both a detox and a cleanse. Our system contains toxins, such as salt, sugar, caffeine,
Of course, talk to your doctor first, especially if you have medical conditions. And skip the gimmicky detox teas and mystery supplements. Drink lots of water and give your body grace. You may need to plan around it, even taking some time off work if you are doing a full cleanse. When you cut back on unhealthy foods like fast-food options, you will also significantly reduce your spending. As your cravings shift to real food, you’ll reach for a Starbucks or hamburger less. It forces you to be more intentional with your meals. When you prepare your lunch at home, you know exactly what’s in it, and you won’t have to pay as much money as you would eating out. The same intentionality applies to your money. Learning what’s in your food is just as important as knowing where your money is going. Are you carrying a credit card balance above 30% of your available limit? That can impact your credit score. Are you taking full advantage of your employer’s 401(k) or IRA match? It’s free money you don’t want to leave on the table. There are so many simple, practical ways to build financial literacy; even children can do it. In fact, one of my favorite books on financial wellness was written for young people. Melody Hobson’s “Priceless Facts About Money” delivers big insights on wealth management in simple terms. It’s a great place to start, even for grown-ups. You can even take courses to understand the stock market, investing, credit cards, and tips to become more financially stable. Whether you’re detoxing from toxins or decluttering your finances, the first step is awareness. An $8 frappuccino feels small, but over time, it adds up in dollars and habits. When you swap it for water and mindfulness, you’re not just skipping a treat. You’re choosing a better future.
and nitrates, all commonly found in food. A cleanse helps flush those out and gives your body a fresh start. It also helps reduce cravings for junk food or “food-like substances,” as I like to call them. When you eat a Big Mac, your body wants more, but it hasn’t provided you with any vitamins. Food is fuel and fasting is like a reset. There are many different approaches to fasting, each with its own purpose and duration. Some people do complete fasts with only water or juices. Others opt for intermittent fasting, which lasts a few hours a day. There are also spiritual fasts, where people eliminate certain things from their lives, like salt, alcohol, meat, or sugar. Ramadan, for example, is a time when people fast during daylight hours. Whether physical, spiritual, or both, fasting can help you align your habits with your goals.
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TV Dads We Know and Love
Protectors, nurturers, teachers, and role models — TV dads have long mirrored the joys and challenges of fatherhood over the decades. From the traditional patriarchs of families in the 1950s to the non- conventional fathers of the ’60s and ’70s, up through the return to conservative values in the 1980s and through modern depictions in the 1990s to today, these dads did more than entertain us. Especially in the often underrepresented roles of Black fatherhood, the sitcom dads who made the biggest difference in our lives reflected the times and redefined them forever. This Father’s Day, I’m sharing the TV dads who truly resonate with my experiences and represent the often invisible middle-class Black families I was a part of. CLIFF HUXTABLE FROM ‘THE COSBY SHOW’ (1984–1992) With his iconic sense of humor and caring wisdom for his children, Cliff Huxtable (Bill Cosby) was the dad everyone wanted as their own. “The Cosby Show” was revolutionary for its time. Cliff Huxtable gave America its first consistent view of an upper-class Black father who was nurturing, professionally successful as a doctor, and deeply invested in his children — a portrayal that helped counter decades of media misrepresentation. He wasn’t just a sitcom figure; he was a cultural touchstone who reshaped public perception and opened the door for more nuanced portrayals of Black fatherhood on television. Instead of leaning into harmful stereotypes of the era, “The Cosby Show” gave viewers an educated and affectionate family led by a dad who could deliver life lessons and laughs. The Huxtables changed television, and Cliff helped shift American culture. CARL WINSLOW FROM ‘FAMILY MATTERS’ (1989–1998) Carl Winslow (Reginald VelJohnson), the patient father in the long-running “Family Matters,” was a trailblazer of diversity on screen. Not only was he a loving father to three biological children, a nephew, an adopted child, and, to some extent, pesky neighbor Urkle, he was a cop, which added a unique layer of subtly addressed social issues. Carl didn’t fit into the box of common CELEBRATING BLACK SITCOM DADS WHO CHANGED THE GAME
Black stereotypes, a pillar of his neighborhood who wasn’t afraid to express his pride for his family and guide them through the ups and downs of life. “Family Matters” displayed Black fatherhood in a positive light in Carl, who fought for justice and instilled strong
values in his family. His role normalized a loving, working- class father who modeled conflict resolution and healthy masculinity. It remains one of the longest-running sitcoms to feature a primarily Black ensemble cast. BERNIE MCCULLOUGH FROM ‘THE BERNIE MAC SHOW’ (2001–2006) Bernie McCullough (Bernie Mac) didn’t just make audiences laugh at the humorous side of fatherhood; he was groundbreaking. He portrayed a type of African American father rarely represented on television, a loving parent to children who were not biologically his own. He and his wife stepped up to adopt their nieces and nephew when his sister’s drug addiction made her incapable of raising them. Bernie was a relatable father who allowed his adopted children to thrive while instilling the importance of accountability and respect. He was a real human who made mistakes and was earnestly learning to be the best father he could be. Bernie’s authenticity and tell-it-like-it-is attitude not only gave voice to thousands of African Americans raising kids outside traditional norms but also permitted them to admit parenting isn’t perfect. PHILLIP BANKS FROM ‘FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR’ (1990–1996) The “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” truly explored the full spectrum of Black identities, masterfully showing viewers there is no one right way to be Black. Uncle Phil (James Avery) was a successful, affluent lawyer raising a child who was not his own with love, discipline, and humor. He was a provider to his family, which included his nephew Will, and was there for all their big moments of growth. “The Fresh Prince” built upon the foundation of Black fatherhood, as represented in “The Cosby Show.” He loved fiercely, corrected with compassion, and protected when he was unasked. Will never realized a father figure could embrace him after his biological dad abandoned him, but in Uncle Phil, he was held, respected, and loved despite his pushback caused by the trauma of his past. Uncle Phil helped bridge class divides within the Black community, and his relationship with Will tackled intra-racial differences with a powerful nuance.
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3 Habits That Lead to a More Fulfilling Life Small Changes, Big Impact backyard will help you boost your health and connect
We all want to live long, happy, and fulfilling lives, but doing so can be challenging. We must intentionally reduce stress and bring more balance to our lives. This doesn’t necessarily mean we must overhaul our lives and find new jobs and friends while removing anything that doesn’t bring us joy. Instead, we can make simple changes to our day-to-day routine that can significantly impact our perspective, happiness, and overall well-being. Want to improve your outlook and get more enjoyment from life? Try incorporating the following behaviors into your routine! SPEND MORE TIME IN NATURE. You’ve probably heard countless times how beneficial spending time in the great outdoors can be for your mental health and overall well-being, but that just shows how valuable it is. You don’t have to take up hiking or visit a national park to get your fill of nature. Simply taking a walk through your neighborhood or enjoying some time in the
with the world around you. PRACTICE GRATITUDE.
Stress and difficult situations can overshadow so much good in our lives. Take some time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life and show your appreciation for those who matter most to you. If you have a hard time finding things to focus on, consider picking up journaling. Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to boost your mental well- being and gain more appreciation for life.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SAY NO. One of the most difficult things in life is telling others “No,” especially to your friends and family. However, failing to say no can negatively affect your mood and
perspective. Make time for yourself, and don’t be afraid to turn down invites or requests if they impede your personal time or ask you to do something overwhelming or stressful.
SPOTLIGHT
Sweet Potato and White Bean Burgers
INGREDIENTS
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1 sweet potato, roasted, peeled and mashed 1 can of white beans, drained and rinsed 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
• Canola oil •
Salt and pepper, to taste 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
4 buns of choice
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato, white beans, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon juice, and bread crumbs. 3. Divide mixture into 4 portions and shape into patties. 4. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add patties and cook for 3 minutes on each side. 5. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes. 6. Place patties on buns and top with your favorite condiments.
Arnice’s book on Women’s Health and Fitness will be published next month! Also, watch your mailbox for our August/September newsletter — the main story will mark Women’s Health and Fitness Month!
Inspired by Tasty.co
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Cleanse Your Body, Clear Your Budget page 1 Screen Fathers, Real Impact page 2 The Path to a Happier You page 3 Sweet Potato and White Bean Burgers page 3 Safe Destinations for Women Traveling Solo page 4
GOING SOLO SAFELY 4 Top Destinations for Women Travelers
Banff and British Columbia, savoring Canada’s unique blend of multicultural influences and indigenous traditions. ICELAND Often described as “the land of ice and fire,” Iceland is home to some of the world’s largest volcanos, glaciers, and hot springs. Visit Reykjavik to enjoy museums, galleries, and souvenir shops. To soak in Iceland’s legendary thermal hot springs, check out the mineral spa at the Blue Lagoon. And if you love a good hike, enjoy some of Iceland’s world-class treks across breathtaking volcanic landscapes. IRELAND Unmatched in its rolling green landscapes and cultural richness, Ireland is a favorite destination for travelers. According to travel expert Rick Steves, the capital city of Dublin “punches above its weight” in the arts, entertainment, food, and fun. Don’t miss the
Cliffs of Moher, a 5-mile-long, 700-foot-tall wall that dates back an estimated 300 million years. All across Ireland, historic cathedrals, castles, and museums tell the story of the suffering of the Irish people. JAPAN This Asian nation has a rich blend of cultural traditions and modern comforts. A trip up the Tokyo Tower, a landmark inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offers a view of the surrounding temples and museums from its top deck 250 meters above the city. The five crater lakes near Mount Fuji offer water sports, hiking, and beautiful views. Visit Kyushu Island resorts to enjoy bubbling hot springs and markets of handcrafted bamboo goods. Regardless of which of these welcoming destinations you choose, you are sure to return with wonderful memories and plenty of stories to share.
If you’re yearning for a travel adventure and are flying solo this season, don’t hesitate! Many enticing destinations welcome visitors traveling alone and are safe for women. Here are four destinations recognized for low crime rates, welcoming attitudes, and cultural respect for women. CANADA Few nations can rival the diversity of attractions offered by this northern beauty. Check out Montreal’s dazzling architecture and museums and the historic chateaux of French-speaking Quebec City. Then, head west to experience the rustic spas and ski resorts of
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