State College of Florida Law Club Donates Over 300 Stuffed Animals to Sarasota County First Responders
State College of Florida Law Club Donates Over 300 Stuffed Animals to Sarasota County First RespondersPublished on August 19, 2026 SCF Law Club (led by Dr. Suzanne Bechtol) donated 300+ stuffed animals to Sarasota County police/fire for comforting kids in crisis situations. Kristen Conti sparked the drive; Sarah Marie Gleba hosted a drop-off site; Bobbe Shively donated ~2/3 of all animals.SARASOTA, FLORIDA – Aug. 18, 2026 -The State College of Florida Law Club, led by Dr. Suzanne Bechtol, has completed a community service project that resulted in the donation of more than 300 stuffed animals to Sarasota County police officers and firefighters.
The animals will be used to comfort children encountering first responders during traumatic situations, including abuse, accidents, house fires and other emergencies. Law enforcement and fire rescue agencies across the country routinely keep comfort items on hand for these moments, when a young child’s first contact with a stranger in uniform comes during one of the worst days of their life.
The project gained momentum after Kristen Conti, a paralegal student at State College of Florida and broker-owner of Peacock Premier Properties in Englewood, asked her community for support. The response, organizers said, was overwhelming.
Sarah Marie Gleba, owner of Arctic Alligator Creamery, volunteered her business as a community drop-off location, giving residents a convenient way to contribute throughout the collection period.
Community volunteer Bobbe Shively donated nearly two-thirds of the stuffed animals collected for the drive, a contribution organizers credited with pushing the project well past its original goal.
“I hope these bring comfort to the children of Sarasota County and support our local agencies,” Bechtol said.
The stuffed animals will be distributed through Sarasota County police and fire rescue personnel, who will keep them on hand for use during calls involving children in crisis.
For the Law Club, the drive doubled as a hands-on lesson in community organizing for students studying toward careers in law and legal support services, pairing coursework with direct outreach to local businesses, volunteers and residents.
About the State College of Florida Law ClubThe State College of Florida Law Club is a student organization dedicated to advancing the legal assistant and paralegal profession, connecting members with legal professionals in the community, and participating in activities that promote solutions to civic issues. Open to students in SCF’s Paralegal Studies program and led by Dr. Suzanne Bechtol, the club pairs professional development with hands-on community service. For more information, visit scf.edu. Scf
Winter Garden Practice Helps Patients Understand Herniated Disc Symptoms and Care Options
Winter Garden Practice Helps Patients Understand Herniated Disc Symptoms and Care OptionsPublished on August 19, 2026 Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky’s Hamlin practice guides patients through conservative care options for herniated and bulging discs before surgery is considered.WINTER GARDEN, Fla. -Aug. 18, 2026 — ReliefNow® Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin is helping patients understand herniated and bulging disc symptoms and the conservative care options available before surgery is considered. Led by Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky, a Central Florida chiropractor with more than 30 years of experience, the Winter Garden practice evaluates each disc condition individually to determine the most appropriate non-surgical path.
A herniated or bulging disc occurs when the cushioning material between spinal vertebrae shifts out of place and presses on nearby nerves, often causing low back pain, neck pain, or pain that radiates into the arms or legs. It is one of the most common findings in adults with chronic back pain, and for many patients, it responds well to conservative, non-surgical care.
What Patients Should Know
One of the most common questions patients ask after a disc herniation diagnosis is whether surgery is inevitable. For most patients, it is not. The body has a documented capacity to reabsorb herniated disc material over time through a natural process, and conservative treatment is generally the first recommended course of care, with surgery reserved for cases involving significant neurological symptoms or when conservative treatment has not provided relief.
“Every treatment plan is designed to address the underlying cause of pain — not simply mask the symptoms,” said Dr. Shebovsky, who has owned and operated seven practices across his career and now treats patients at three Central Florida locations, including Hamlin/Winter Garden. “I look forward to assisting you on your journey towards a life filled with higher levels of health and vitality.”
What the Research Shows
A 2016 meta-analysis and systematic review of cohort studies, examining herniated lumbar discs treated conservatively rather than surgically, found that spontaneous resorption of the herniated disc material occurred in roughly two-thirds of cases studied. The authors concluded that, given this natural healing capacity, conservative treatment may reasonably be considered the first choice of care for many patients with lumbar disc herniation.
More recent reviews of the phenomenon, published in 2024 and 2025, have identified patient and disc characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of natural resorption — including younger age and larger initial herniation size — while noting that researchers are still working to fully understand which patients are the best candidates for a conservative-first approach versus earlier intervention.
Who Should Be Evaluated
Patients with chronic neck or back pain, pain radiating into the arms or legs, numbness or tingling, or a diagnosed bulging or herniated disc are encouraged to seek a clinical evaluation to determine the best course of care. Patients experiencing loss of bladder or bowel control, sudden leg weakness, or groin numbness should seek emergency care immediately, as these can be signs of a serious underlying condition requiring urgent attention.
About Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky
Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic who has practiced in Central Florida since 1994. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the State University of New York at Albany and graduated with honors from New York Chiropractic College. He is the author of two books, “Chiropractic: A Journey From Injury to Wellness” and “The Laser Solution,” and served as team chiropractor for the Orlando Solar Bears professional hockey team from 2012 to 2018. He is a member of the American Chiropractic Association and the Florida Chiropractic Association, and a past president of the Central Florida Chiropractic Society.
About the Practice
ReliefNow® Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin, part of the Orange Wellness network, provides chiropractic care, non-surgical spinal decompression, Class IV laser therapy, regenerative medicine, shockwave therapy and customized rehabilitation to patients throughout Winter Garden, Horizon West and the greater Orlando area. More information is available at orangewellness.com.
Sources
Chiu CC, Chuang TY, Chang KH, et al. Incidence of Spontaneous Resorption of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-Analysis. National Institutes of Health / PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28072796/
Prediction and Mechanisms of Spontaneous Resorption in Lumbar Disc Herniation: Narrative Review. National Institutes of Health / PubMed Central: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11165499/
Winter Garden Practice Offers Non-Surgical Relief for Nerve Pain and Neuropathy
Winter Garden Practice Offers Non-Surgical Relief for Nerve Pain and NeuropathyPublished on August 19, 2026 Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky’s Hamlin practice treats peripheral neuropathy and nerve pain with non-invasive, drug-free therapies.WINTER GARDEN, Fla. -Aug. 18, 2026 — ReliefNow® Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin offers non-surgical treatment for peripheral neuropathy and nerve pain, a condition marked by numbness, tingling, burning pain or weakness in the hands, feet, arms or legs. Led by Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky, a Central Florida chiropractor with more than 30 years of experience, the Winter Garden practice treats nerve pain without prescription medication or surgery.
Peripheral neuropathy affects an estimated 20 million or more Americans, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), part of the National Institutes of Health — and the true number is believed to be higher, since current diagnostic tests do not detect every form of the condition and many cases go untested. Common causes include diabetes, chemotherapy, autoimmune disease, and nerve compression or injury.
How the Practice Approaches Nerve Pain
Rather than masking nerve pain with medication, the Hamlin practice builds a treatment plan around the underlying cause of a patient’s neuropathy symptoms. Depending on the case, treatment may include Class IV laser therapy, chiropractic care to relieve nerve compression from spinal misalignment, and other non-invasive therapies designed to support nerve function and reduce inflammation around affected nerves.
“Every treatment plan is designed to address the underlying cause of pain — not simply mask the symptoms,” said Dr. Shebovsky, who has owned and operated seven practices across his career and now treats patients at three Central Florida locations, including Hamlin/Winter Garden. “I look forward to assisting you on your journey towards a life filled with higher levels of health and vitality.”
What the Research Shows
Laser-based therapies for nerve pain have been studied specifically in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, one of the most common forms of the condition. A 2019 pilot randomized clinical trial published in BMC Geriatrics examined deep tissue laser therapy in older adults with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathic pain and found measurable improvements in patient-reported outcomes. Broader systematic reviews of low-level laser therapy for diabetic neuropathy have similarly found a positive effect on neuropathic pain, though researchers note that larger, high-quality trials are still needed to confirm long-term benefit.
As with any nerve pain treatment, results depend on the underlying cause and severity of a patient’s condition, and neuropathy caused by an unmanaged underlying disease, such as diabetes, requires coordinated care with the patient’s physician.
Who May Be a Candidate
Signs that may indicate a candidate for the practice’s neuropathy treatment include numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, arms or legs, sensitivity to touch, sharp or burning pain, and muscle weakness. A clinical evaluation is required before treatment begins, and patients with underlying conditions such as diabetes are encouraged to continue coordinated care with their physician.
About Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky
Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic who has practiced in Central Florida since 1994. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the State University of New York at Albany and graduated with honors from New York Chiropractic College. He is the author of two books, “Chiropractic: A Journey From Injury to Wellness” and “The Laser Solution,” and served as team chiropractor for the Orlando Solar Bears professional hockey team from 2012 to 2018. He is a member of the American Chiropractic Association and the Florida Chiropractic Association, and a past president of the Central Florida Chiropractic Society.
About the Practice
ReliefNow Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin, part of the Orange Wellness network, provides chiropractic care, non-surgical spinal decompression, Class IV laser therapy, regenerative medicine, shockwave therapy and customized rehabilitation to patients throughout Winter Garden, Horizon West and the greater Orlando area. More information is available at orangewellness.com.
Sources
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health. Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy
Chatterjee P, Srivastava AK, Kumar DA, et al. Effect of deep tissue laser therapy treatment on peripheral neuropathic pain in older adults with type 2 diabetes: A pilot randomized clinical trial. BMC Geriatrics, 2019. National Institutes of Health / PubMed Central.
Winter Garden Back Pain Specialist Offers Non-Surgical Chiropractic Care
Winter Garden Back Pain Specialist Offers Non-Surgical Chiropractic CarePublished on August 19, 2026 Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky’s Hamlin practice treats upper and lower back pain with chiropractic care as a drug-free alternative to medication and surgery.WINTER GARDEN, Fla. Aug. 18, 2026 — ReliefNow Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin offers chiropractic treatment for upper and lower back pain, one of the most common reasons patients seek medical care. Led by Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky, a Central Florida chiropractor with more than 30 years of experience, the Winter Garden practice treats back pain caused by injury, poor posture and everyday strain without medication or surgery.
The lower back supports much of the body’s weight and movement, making it especially prone to injury and discomfort from everyday activity. Upper back pain is less common but can still significantly affect daily life when muscle strain, joint irritation or poor posture are involved. For many patients, back pain becomes a recurring problem rather than a one-time injury, which is where an ongoing care plan can matter most.
A Root-Cause Approach to Back Pain
Rather than treating back pain as an isolated symptom, the Hamlin practice builds each treatment plan around the specific cause of a patient’s discomfort — whether that’s a misalignment, a disc issue, or muscular imbalance. Chiropractic adjustments aim to reduce inflammation, relieve pressure on nerves, and restore mobility, with the goal of addressing the source of the pain rather than only managing it.
“Every treatment plan is designed to address the underlying cause of pain — not simply mask the symptoms,” said Dr. Shebovsky, who has owned and operated seven practices across his career and now treats patients at three Central Florida locations, including Hamlin/Winter Garden. “I look forward to assisting you on your journey towards a life filled with higher levels of health and vitality.”
What the Research Shows
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), part of the National Institutes of Health, lists spinal manipulation as one of several nondrug approaches that may be used to treat acute and chronic low-back pain. In a study funded by NCCIH that followed more than 600 people with low-back pain, chiropractic care involving spinal manipulation was found to be at least as effective as conventional medical care for up to 18 months.
A Cochrane systematic review of spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low-back pain, cited by NCCIH, similarly found that spinal manipulation performs about as well as other established treatments for low-back pain, including exercise and standard medical care. NCCIH notes that outcomes vary by patient, and that spinal manipulation is best understood as one option among several — including exercise, massage and physical therapy — that can provide mild-to-moderate relief.
Who May Be a Candidate
Patients experiencing chronic lower back pain, upper back discomfort tied to posture or muscle strain, or back pain following an injury or accident may be candidates for chiropractic care at the Hamlin practice. A clinical evaluation is required to rule out conditions that would make chiropractic adjustment inappropriate, such as spinal fractures or certain underlying medical conditions.
About Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky
Dr. Jeffrey N. Shebovsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic who has practiced in Central Florida since 1994. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the State University of New York at Albany and graduated with honors from New York Chiropractic College. He is the author of two books, “Chiropractic: A Journey From Injury to Wellness” and “The Laser Solution,” and served as team chiropractor for the Orlando Solar Bears professional hockey team from 2012 to 2018. He is a member of the American Chiropractic Association and the Florida Chiropractic Association, and a past president of the Central Florida Chiropractic Society.
About the Practice
ReliefNow Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin, part of the Orange Wellness network, provides chiropractic care, non-surgical spinal decompression, Class IV laser therapy, regenerative medicine, shockwave therapy and customized rehabilitation to patients throughout Winter Garden, Horizon West and the greater Orlando area. More information is available at orangewellness.com.
Sources
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health. Spinal Manipulation for Low-Back Pain. https://files.nccih.nih.gov/s3fs-public/Spinal_Manipulation_for_LBP_12-01-2015.pdf
Rubinstein SM, van Middelkoop M, Assendelft WJ, et al. Spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low-back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Cited via National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know
Location Info:ReliefNow Disc Joint & Nerve Center Hamlin5736 Hamlin Groves Tr Ste 154, , FL, Winter Garden, FL 34787+14077064944
Humans That Build Features Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach Josh McKinney on Growth, Self-Awareness, and Building Community
Humans That Build Features Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach Josh McKinney on Growth, Self-Awareness, and Building CommunityPublished on August 19, 2026 Host Adam Marburger and coach Josh McKinney discuss the internal work behind competition, coaching, and building a thriving Jiu-Jitsu academy.
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI – Aug. 18, 2026 – Humans That Build, the leadership and business podcast hosted by Adam Marburger, features Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coach Josh McKinney in a conversation about personal growth, coaching, and building community through martial arts.
Josh McKinney is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor, coach, and community builder. In this episode, he traces his evolution from competitor to coach and shares what it took to grow a thriving Jiu-Jitsu academy — including the setbacks, the self-awareness required to keep improving, and the discipline of showing up consistently.
The conversation centers on a theme the show returns to often: individuals have to build themselves internally before they can produce meaningful results in the world. McKinney discusses how understanding his own learning style shaped his development, and why recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses is essential to progress both on the mat and off it.
McKinney is candid about the role of consistency. He notes that falling out of a training rhythm is often what leads people to discouragement and quitting — and that maintaining a steady cadence is one of the simplest, most reliable drivers of long-term growth. He also describes the transformative side of Jiu-Jitsu: beyond physical fitness, it builds a supportive community that can reshape a person’s social circle and sense of belonging.
For listeners who feel stuck or adrift in their own pursuits, the episode offers a grounded roadmap — engage authentically with your passion, commit to the process, and let self-awareness and community carry the growth.
QUICK FACTSPodcast: Humans That BuildHost: Adam Marburger (AdamMarburger.com)Guest: Josh McKinney, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coachGuest links: isuckatjiujitsu.com, headnodhq.comEpisode topics: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, coaching, personal growth, self-awareness, consistency, community buildingWhere to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and HumansThatBuild.comCreated and produced by: Tamara Patzer, PhD
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is Josh McKinney?Josh McKinney is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor, coach, and community builder who has grown a thriving Jiu-Jitsu academy. He is connected to projects including I Suck at Jiu Jitsu and Head Nod HQ.
What does Josh McKinney discuss on Humans That Build?McKinney discusses his evolution from competitor to coach, the challenges of building a Jiu-Jitsu academy, the importance of understanding your learning style, the role of consistent training, and how Jiu-Jitsu builds both fitness and community.
What is the main theme of this episode?The central theme is personal and professional growth through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — specifically the idea that internal development, self-awareness, and consistency come before external success, and that community is central to sustaining growth.
Where can I listen to this episode of Humans That Build?The episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and at HumansThatBuild.com.
About Humans That BuildHumans That Build is a leadership and business podcast documenting the people who build real things — companies, teams, systems, and cultures — through discipline, responsibility, and execution. The show features long-form conversations with founders, executives, operators, and leaders who have earned their authority through experience rather than hype. It is created and produced by Tamara Patzer, PhD, and hosted by Adam Marburger (AdamMarburger.com).
Listen on Audible: https://www.amazon.com/Humans-That-Build/dp/B0GR6K316G
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ErythroAGRO Opens XyloSHIELD™ Offense & Defense System Pilot Batch #001 For Certified MWBE Partners
ErythroAGRO Opens XyloSHIELD™ Offense & Defense System Pilot Batch #001 For Certified MWBE PartnersPublished on August 18, 2026 ErythroAGRO announced the qualification launch of its XyloSHIELD™ Offense & Defense System Pilot Batch #001. Designed for certified MWBE contractors performing structural framing scopes for prime contractors, the turnkey field kit pairs neat anhydrous botanical timber defense chemistry with subterranean monitoring hardware and standardized System Validation Protocols for auditable Commercially Useful Function jobsite diligence.FARMINGDALE, NY – Aug. 17, 2026 –
ErythroAGRO, a division of Erythros Life Sciences, today opened qualification for XyloSHIELD™ Offense & Defense System Pilot Batch #001—a turnkey field kit for certified MWBE contractors that perform structural timber and open-framing work for primes and need auditable jobsite documentation supporting Commercially Useful Function (CUF) diligence.
Batch #001 is a physical allocation hard-capped at 10 MWBE contractor spots, with September shipping for approved partners. One Offense & Defense System Pilot is available per approved MWBE firm. Free qualification is open now at https://erythroagro.com/.
The XyloSHIELD™ Offense & Defense System delivers a complete, professional timber management capability designed for prime contractor compliance:
• Perimeter Defense Concentrate (5-Gallon): An advanced, neat anhydrous (zero-water) timber defense concentrate engineered for long-term pore retention across open framing, crawlspaces, foundation timber, and exterior municipal wood structures without wash-off risk.• XyloSHIELD™ T-Bait Offense Modules: Targeted delivery chemistry formulated for structural voids and subterranean stations.• Six Subterranean Monitoring Stations: Rugged in-ground perimeter monitoring hardware for continuous jobsite subterranean defense.• Standardized Field Checklists A, B, and C: Comprehensive on-site verification workflows documenting chemical application, perimeter station deployment, and inspection milestones.• System Validation Protocol Training: Three operator seats for the proprietary technical training portal, including P-XS operational endorsement and auditable jobsite telemetry.
“Batch #001 gives certified MWBE contractors a complete, professional timber management capability on major framing scopes—not just a bucket and a brochure,” said Michael Pine, Founder and Managing Director of Erythros Life Sciences. “Prime contractors require verifiable technical execution from their diversity partners. This turnkey kit delivers the anhydrous chemistry, ground monitoring hardware, and System Validation Protocol needed to substantiate real on-site scope from day one.”
Qualified MWBE contractors can review technical specifications and apply for Batch #001 qualification at https://erythroagro.com/.
Regulatory & Compliance Notice:XyloSHIELD™ formulations are positioned as minimum-risk botanical pesticides exempt from Federal EPA registration under FIFRA Section 25(b) / 40 CFR 152.25(f). System Validation Protocols provide operational frameworks for jobsite field documentation and do not constitute third-party legal guarantees or government certification of CUF credit. The contracting agency or prime contractor retains sole authority regarding CUF determinations.
About ErythroAGRO:ErythroAGRO is the specialized agricultural and structural timber defense division of Erythros Life Sciences, based in Farmingdale, New York. The organization develops high-performance anhydrous botanical chemistries and field-verification systems for commercial construction, infrastructure preservation, and certified diversity trade contractors. Erythros Life Sciences is a registered federal contractor in SAM.gov (CAGE: 21WE3, UEI: WUJZVFFZHGS2).
Media Contact:Michael Pine, Founder & Managing DirectorErythroAGRO (Division of Erythros Life Sciences)Email: media@erythroagro.comWebsite: https://erythroagro.com/
The Best-Selling Authors Association Recognizes James Eade as a No. 1 International Bestselling Author
Acclaimed chess author James Eade earns #1 International Bestselling Author recognition following the international success of The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5.The Best-Selling Authors Association® has formally recognized James Eade as a #1 International Bestselling Author for his contribution to The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5, following the book’s successful launch on July 28, 2026.
The collaborative leadership anthology reached No. 1 in the United States, Canada, and Australia, earning leading bestseller placements in Business Consulting, Organizational Change, Business Ethics, and Organizational Behavior.
Across its Kindle and print editions, The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5 appeared on 23 Amazon bestseller lists across the three international markets. The book also gained visibility in Management & Leadership, Business & Money, Industries & Professions, Business Management, Professional & Technical, and Business Life.
The results established the fifth volume of the Top 50 Fearless Leaders series as an international bestseller and earned its contributing writers, including Eade, recognition as No. 1 International Bestselling Authors.
During the launch campaign, the book appeared on Amazon charts alongside widely recognized authors and titles associated with James Clear, Daniel Kahneman, Stephen R. Covey, Simon Sinek, Dale Carnegie, Robert Cialdini, Chris Voss, and Charlie Munger. It also ranked ahead of biographies focused on noted business leaders Sam Walton and Richard Branson.
Published as part of the International Association of Top Professionals’ global leadership series, The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5 brings together accomplished professionals whose experiences reflect resilience, determination, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership.
Eade’s contribution centers on persistence, service, and the importance of continuing forward when circumstances become difficult. A longtime author, chess educator, administrator, and FIDE Master, Eade has spent decades using chess as a platform for education, community building, and personal development.
“Persist. Too many give up when they are on the threshold of success,” Eade advises readers.
That principle carries particular weight in a career that has included both significant professional achievement and serious personal adversity. In 2016, Eade faced liver failure, an experience that reinforced the themes of perseverance and hope reflected in his contribution to the book.
His publishing career also gives the bestselling recognition particular significance. Eade is best known as the author of Chess for Dummies, first published in 1996 and subsequently released in multiple editions and international translations. His other chess titles include The Chess Player’s Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game and Chess Openings for Dummies.
Beyond chess instruction, Eade has also written about recovery and personal transformation. His more recent works include Freedom: Your Path to Recovery and No Blame, No Shame, extending his writing into subjects involving addiction, dignity, healing, and hope.
Throughout his career, Eade has held leadership roles across the chess community, including positions with the Chess Journalists of America, CalChess, the Kolty Chess for Youth Foundation, the U.S. Chess Trust, and FIDE. Those experiences have supported a leadership philosophy built around inclusion and expanding access to the game.
That mission is also reflected in The Eade Foundation, which promotes chess education and works to make chess resources available to individuals and communities that might otherwise lack access. Eade has described the broader purpose behind his work simply: “Empower the powerless and give hope to the hopeless.”
His chapter in The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5 connects that philosophy to a larger view of leadership. Rather than defining achievement solely through titles or recognition, Eade emphasizes persistence, service, and helping others develop their own abilities.
His approach to chess education follows a similar principle. Eade encourages players to focus on becoming the best version of themselves rather than measuring success solely against others—a perspective that has informed decades of teaching, writing, nonprofit work, and leadership.
Eade has received numerous distinctions for his contributions to chess and education, including Chess Educator of the Year from the University of Texas at Dallas and the United States Chess Federation’s Outstanding Career Achievement Award. His selection for The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5 recognizes a career that has combined authorship, leadership, education, and service.
For Eade, becoming a No. 1 International Bestselling Author adds another publishing milestone to a body of work that has introduced generations of readers to chess while increasingly addressing broader themes of perseverance and personal transformation.
The Best-Selling Authors Association® acknowledges James Eade’s contribution to the international success of The Top 50 Fearless Leaders, Vol. 5 and formally recognizes him as a No. 1 International Bestselling Author.
For More Information: Conversations on Mindset, Recovery & Freedom
Literary Agents Reject 96% of Authors. This Method Published 20 of Them in 48 Hours.
Literary Agents Reject 96% of Authors. This Method Published 20 of Them in 48 Hours.Published on August 12, 2026 Literary agents reject 96% of authors, yet 20 academics at two Malaysian universities each wrote and published a full book in 48 hours using Dr. Izdihar Jamil’s Author Accelerator Method. The bestselling author and TEDx Curator’s three-stage framework — Structure, Content, Execution — helped participants overcome self-doubt and lack of process, proving fast, quality book publishing no longer requires traditional gatekeepers.Traditional publishing rejects almost everyone who tries. Literary agents turn down roughly 96% of the authors who query them, and individual publishers often accept less than 1% of the manuscripts submitted directly to them. And yet none of that has stopped people from writing: more than 1.4 million self-published books are released through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform every year.
That contradiction points to something the industry rarely says out loud: the bottleneck was never the gatekeepers. Self-publishing already removed them. The real bottleneck is what happens before a manuscript is even finished — and this month, at two universities in Malaysia, twenty people broke through it in a single weekend each.
A Los Angeles Author, Invited to Bridge the Gap
Dr. Izdihar Jamil, Ph.D., a Los Angeles-based bestselling author, was invited to Malaysia to teach at both universities as part of an effort to help their faculty close the gap between the research and expertise academics carry and the published output their institutions increasingly expect of them.
“It isn’t that they’re too busy — though that’s the easiest answer, so it’s what people say first,” she explained. “Dig one layer deeper and the real block surfaces: they don’t know if their message is good enough. They’re drowning in conflicting advice about how to structure a book or market it. And they have no one holding them accountable to actually finish it.”
That insight shaped her proprietary Author Accelerator Method, a three-stage framework — Structure, Content, and Execution — designed to take a writer from raw idea to a published, market-ready book quickly, by removing the guesswork at every stage rather than just the time pressure.
Twenty Books, Two Campuses, One Pattern
At Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) in Tanjong Malim on 1–2 July, ten participants — academicians, researchers, and students — finished and published full books. About 270 kilometers north, at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in Penang, ten more did the same on 8–9 July.
At UPSI, Dr. Thilaga Ravinthar, a senior English language instructor, rebuilt her PhD thesis into a public-facing guide for classroom instructors. “My thesis sat in a repository where maybe a handful of people would ever read it,” she said. “Turning it into a real book felt like giving my own research a second life.”
The organizers on both campuses had lived the problem themselves before booking the workshop.
“What I kept seeing among my own colleagues wasn’t a lack of ideas,” said Associate Professor Dr. Suzani Mohamad Samuri, Deputy Dean of UPSI’s Faculty of Computing & Meta-Technology, who organized the UPSI workshop. “It was people sitting on research and expertise for years because no one had ever shown them a process that fit around teaching, supervision, and family life.”
At USM, Omar Nasrallah was the first to finish, publishing The AI Classroom Guide for teachers overwhelmed by administrative work.
Dr. Nurul Hanim Romainoor of USM’s School of the Arts, who organized the USM workshop, had carried her own book idea for over a year before it began. “Between running my department, teaching, supervising students, writing grants, and family commitments, it felt like a mountain I’d never get to climb,”s he said. She finished his own book, Creative Research Blueprint, inside the same 48 hours.
The USM workshop also offered proof of what the method can do over time. Azzura Nordin, a lecturer at UiTM Shah Alam, first attended one of Dr. Jamil’s workshops last year as a first-time author, unsure of the process and overwhelmed by how to simplify years of lecture material into a book her students could actually use. That struggle became her first book, The Confetti Effect. This July, she returned to the USM workshop as a co-facilitator — and published her third book, The Art of Going Alone.
An Author Who Still Does the Work Herself
Dr. Jamil is a 21x bestselling author who continues to write, publish, and market her own books using the same process she teaches. She has now guided more than 300 leaders and authors — including corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and academics — from idea to published book.
What Comes Next
The Author Accelerator Method is expanding beyond academia, with Dr. Jamil now working with executives, entrepreneurs, and organizations seeking to publish without a process that drags on for years. Interview availability, event photography, and participant contacts can be arranged on request.
More information on the Author Accelerator Method is available at www.izdiharjamil.com.
About Dr. Izdihar Jamil:Dr. Izdihar Jamil, Ph.D. is a 21x bestselling author, TV host, and visibility expert who helps leaders and organizations use storytelling to build trust, amplify influence, and increase revenue — through books, media, stages, and effective business strategies. She is a TEDx Curator and has been featured on Forbes, TED.com, and FOX11 TV. She lives in California with her husband and children, where she spends her free time baking and reading fiction.
Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, Encourages Investors to Focus on the Value of Advice—Not Just the Cost of It
Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, Encourages Investors to Focus on the Value of Advice—Not Just the Cost of ItPublished on August 12, 2026 Fees vs. Value: Don’t Confuse the Two
One of the first questions people ask when considering a financial advisor is, “What are your fees?”
It’s a fair question. But according to Owen Edwards, a Certified Financial Fiduciary®, it may not be the most important one.
“I think a better question is: ‘What value do I receive for the fee I pay?” Edwards said.
Whether it’s healthcare, legal advice, home repairs, or financial planning, most people understand that price and value are not the same thing. Choosing solely based on the lowest cost can lead to disappointment—and greater expense down the road. Edwards believes the same holds true when hiring an investment adviser.
Comparing Fees Isn’t the Same as Comparing Value
Edwards believes many investors make the mistake of comparing advisory fees as if they were comparing identical products. In reality, he says, the difference between advisors often has less to do with the investments they recommend and more to do with the guidance they provide before, during, and after those investments are made.
“Comparing fees is simplistic,” Edwards explained. “It’s much harder to measure the cost of poor decisions—taking too much risk, reacting emotionally during market downturns, overlooking tax consequences, or entering retirement without a coordinated income strategy. Those decisions can have a lasting financial impact.”
Investment management, Edwards notes, is only one piece of the puzzle. True financial advice should include education, planning, ongoing reviews, retirement income strategies, beneficiary coordination, employer retirement plans, and guidance through life’s major financial decisions.
Questions Investors Should Be Asking
When evaluating a financial advisor, Edwards recommends looking beyond cost alone. Instead of asking only “What do you charge?” he suggests investors also ask:
What services are included?
How often will we meet?
Will you proactively review my plan?
How do you help during difficult markets?
Do you provide retirement income planning?
Will you coordinate with my CPA and attorney when appropriate?
How do you measure success beyond investment returns?
Not the Cheapest—The Right Fit
“I feel this topic is so important because I’ve seen too many people shop for a financial advisor the same way they shop for gas—looking for the lowest price,” Edwards said. “Everyone wants to save money, and I understand that. But this isn’t just another purchase. It’s your life savings, your retirement, and your family’s financial future. Choosing an advisor based solely on who charges the least can end up being one of the most expensive financial decisions you ever make.“
Edwards believes the goal shouldn’t be to simply find the cheapest advisor—the goal should be to find someone whose process creates value that exceeds the cost.
“The least expensive advisor isn’t always the best value,” Edwards concluded. “Just as the most expensive isn’t automatically the best. The right advisor is the one who understands you, your concerns, and your goals. From that understanding comes a long-term strategy designed to help you make informed decisions through every stage of life. That’s value.“
About Owen Edwards:
Owen Edwards, Certified Financial Fiduciary® serves select clients throughout Pennsylvania and nationwide. In his 30th year, Edwards is known for his educational, client-first approach and his dedication to helping clients gain clarity and confidence to make informed financial decisions.
Learn more: http://OwenEdwardsInvestments.com/
Owen Edwards is an Investment Adviser Representative of and investment services offered through Royal Fund Management, LLC, an SEC Registered Adviser. 401(k) Maneuver is another business name for Royal Fund Management, LLC.
Michael Clementi, Advisor Development Consultant with Simplicity Group Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing How to Achieve Greater Success
Michael Clementi, Advisor Development Consultant with Simplicity Group Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing How to Achieve Greater SuccessPublished on August 10, 2026 Michael Clementi discussing How to Achieve Greater Success
Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-michael-clementi-advisor-development-consultant-with-simplicity-group/
In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, Mike Saunders had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Clementi, an Advisor Development Consultant with Simplicity Group. Michael shared his journey into the IMO (Independent Marketing Organization) industry, which he entered after graduating from Cal State San Marcos with a degree in sales management. Began his career at Life Pro Financial Services, where he initially focused on fixed indexed universal life policies.
Focus on the Client’s Transformation
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, especially within the financial services industry, the focus has shifted from merely selling products to fostering meaningful transformations in clients’ lives. This evolution is encapsulated in the philosophy of prioritizing the client’s transformation over the features of a product. As discussed in a recent podcast featuring Michael Clementi, this approach not only enhances client relationships but also paves the way for long-term success for both the advisor and the client.
The traditional model of sales often revolved around being an “order taker,” where the salesperson simply responds to client requests without delving deeper into their needs or aspirations. This method is akin to offering a menu without understanding the customer’s palate. In contrast, a consultative approach encourages advisors to engage clients in meaningful discussions about their goals and challenges. By asking questions that prompt clients to envision their desired future, advisors can guide them on a transformative journey rather than just presenting a series of products.
Clementi’s career trajectory illustrates this shift beautifully. Initially, he found success by being knowledgeable about products and providing clients with detailed illustrations. However, he soon realized that this approach was limited and could easily lead to commoditization. His partner’s insight—that the product is secondary to the process—was a game-changer. This understanding transformed Clementi’s mindset, leading him to prioritize the client’s journey and the outcomes they seek over the specifics of the financial products themselves.
This philosophy aligns with the marketing maxim of “sell the transformation, not the transportation.” Clients are often overwhelmed by technical jargon and details that may seem irrelevant to them. For instance, a client nearing retirement may not care about income riders or cap rates; they simply want assurance that they can enjoy their golden years without financial stress. By focusing on the client’s desired transformation—such as achieving financial security and peace of mind—advisors can communicate in a language that resonates with their clients’ experiences and aspirations.
Moreover, this consultative approach fosters a deeper connection between the advisor and the client. When clients feel understood and supported in their journey, they are more likely to trust their advisor and view them as a partner in their financial success. This trust can lead to increased referrals and long-term relationships, which are invaluable in the financial services industry. As Clementi noted, when clients talk about their positive experiences, they contribute to the advisor’s reputation and marketability, making them more referable.
One of the critical aspects of focusing on the client’s transformation is recognizing the gap between the advisor’s knowledge and the client’s understanding. Many clients come from non-financial backgrounds and may struggle to comprehend complex financial concepts. Advisors must bridge this gap by simplifying their communication and emphasizing the benefits of their services. Instead of inundating clients with technical details, they should articulate how their strategies will positively impact the client’s life, allowing them to envision the outcomes they desire.
In conclusion, the principle of “value first” is a powerful guiding philosophy that can transform the way we approach our personal and professional relationships. By prioritizing the success of others, we not only enhance our own opportunities for growth but also contribute to a more collaborative and supportive community. As Michael Clementi’s journey illustrates, the path to fulfillment and success lies not in the relentless pursuit of our own goals, but in the genuine desire to uplift and empower those around us. In doing so, we create a legacy of impact that extends far beyond our individual achievements, embodying the true essence of success. By focusing on the client’s transformation, we not only foster meaningful relationships but also redefine what it means to be successful in our respective fields.
Michael shared: “What really motivates me is helping advisors grow their business year over year. You cannot put a price tag on the feeling you get when an advisor calls you at the end of December to tell you they had their best year ever.”
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About Michael Clementi
Michael Clementi is an advisor development consultant at Simplicity Group. Over the course of his 8 years in the financial services industry he has built meaningful relationships with advisors across the country while supporting and growing their practices. Clementi offers immense support to the advisors he works with through his deep understanding of building effective financial strategies to achieve clients’ long term goals. Additionally, he provides instrumental value in their continued growth by keeping them up to date and educated on the latest industry trends.
Learn More: https://www.simplicitygroup.com/