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New “Storybooks Club” is Bringing the Magic of Books to All Children with Special Needs in the U.S.

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New “Storybooks Club” is Bringing the Magic of Books to All Children with Special Needs in the U.S.

Published on March 28, 2023

Imagination Storybooks (ISB) creates children’s books that enable all children to have a sensory experience, engaging all their senses, and increasing learning and development. ISB ensures their education is limitless by making books accessible, giving them the gift of communication in accessible language, and exploring what is possible.

Children ages 3-8 who are vision or hearing challenged or have a learning disability are limited by books not made for them. Children’s illustrated books like Winnie the Pooh have not been fully accessible to over 5 million children with special needs in the U.S., until now.

Richard Rieman founded the nonprofit, Imagination Storybooks, to bridge these gaps and support blind and deaf children. ISB ensures their education is limitless by making books accessible, giving them the gift of communication in accessible language, and exploring what is possible.

His team of narrators and interpreters—over a dozen of whom are visually or hearing-impaired themselves—combine digital picture books with audio descriptions of the illustrations and a digital braille file, as well as captions and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation.

“Today, everything can be read in a robotic voice on a device, but we are trying to give children a performance, and teach them to love books even at three, four, and five years old,” Richard explains.

Imagination Storybooks partners with the nationally recognized Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP.org), funded by the U.S. Department of Education, so tens of thousands of blind children, their parents, and their teachers have free access.

“We created a portal into the magical world of children’s books for children who are blind, deaf, or neurodiverse with learning challenges such as autism or dyslexia,” says Richard Rieman, “The Storybook Wizard,” Founder and CEO of the award-winning Colorado Nonprofit Imagination Storybooks.

The new “Storybooks Club” is bringing the magic of books to all children in three different ways:

  • Videos include sign language and captions that include the picture descriptions for deaf children.
  • Both video and audiobooks have pictures being richly described, so children who are dyslexic, autistic, or have other learning challenges can understand the story.

Imagination Storybooks Club members receive access to a library of children’s illustrated books in three formats: videos with ASL (American Sign Language) and captions; videos with AD (Audio Description); and audio files with AD, as well as bonus content for parents and teachers.

Now that the 1926 edition of Winnie-the-Pooh by AA Milne is in the public domain, Imagination Storybooks is producing accessible video and audiobook adaptations of the classic to everyone. The finished project will be over two hours in length.

“Our accessible audiobook version of Winnie the Pooh debuted at #1 in Children’s Anthology books on Audible,” says Richard.

Richard adds, “we want all children to fall in love with Winnie-the-Pooh and the beloved characters of Hundred Acre Wood including children who are blind, deaf, and learning challenged.”

The American Council of the Blind awarded ISB its Special Recognition Award in 2021 for dedicating its mission to fostering early literacy for children who are blind or have low vision.

Imagination Storybooks also produces the weekly Illustrated Audiobooks podcast, winner of the 2022 Communicator Award for Excellence as “Best Storytelling Podcast.”

About Richard Rieman, “The Storybook Wizard.”

Richard is the Founder and CEO of “Imagination Storybooks” at ImaginationStorybooks.org. He has narrated and produced hundreds of Indie-published audiobooks and is the author of the award-winning book, “The Author’s Guide to Audiobook Creation.” Richard Rieman is gradually losing his own eyesight due to glaucoma, but not his vision to make illustrated books accessible to ALL children. Audio and Video clips of Winnie the Pooh and other accessible books are available for all media.

Contact Richard Rieman at Wizard@ImaginationStorybooks.org | 720-507-5970

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Fran Bailey, Renowned Energy Healer and Founder of the SHEVA Method, to Conduct Enlightening Sessions on the Power of the Heart Chakra

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Fran Bailey, Renowned Energy Healer and Founder of the SHEVA Method, to Conduct Enlightening Sessions on the Power of the Heart Chakra

Published on June 7, 2023

Fran Bailey, the founder of the transformative SHEVA Method, has announced a free series of life enhancing materials throughout May and June 2023. The content will delve deep into understanding and harnessing the power of the Heart Chakra, a crucial component of holistic well-being and spiritual growth.

Fran Bailey, the highly regarded energy healer and founder of the transformative SHEVA Method, has announced a series of blogs, meditations and videos throughout May and June 2023. The content will delve deep into understanding and harnessing the power of the Heart Chakra, a crucial component of holistic well-being and spiritual growth.

Bailey, a pioneering figure in the realm of energy healing, aims to share her extensive knowledge about the Heart Chakra and its significant benefits. The online content will include practical advice on healing techniques, emotional balance, and cultivating a life of abundance and fulfillment through a balanced Heart Chakra.

Fran Bailey’s contributions to the field of energy healing have been recognized worldwide, thanks to her groundbreaking SHEVA Method – a holistic approach to spiritual growth and emotional well-being. Her sessions have been transformative for thousands of individuals seeking to unlock their true potential and navigate life’s challenges with resilience.

In addition to her acclaimed SHEVA Method, Bailey’s expertise in energy healing is vividly captured in her book, EMERGENCE. The book is an enlightening guide to understanding and harnessing our internal energies for self-improvement and spiritual development. It provides readers with actionable strategies and insightful knowledge to traverse their spiritual journey. To celebrate Mother’s Day during the month of May 2023, Fran has made the book available with the addition of a free heart meditation audio download to assist Mothers during time of change.

“I’m thrilled to share my knowledge about the Heart Chakra this month,” said Bailey. “My hope is that this content will empower individuals to tap into the healing power of their Heart Chakra and lead lives filled with love, compassion, and inner peace.”

Participants of these sessions can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the Heart Chakra’s role in emotional balance, maintaining harmonious relationships, and cultivating a sense of unconditional love and forgiveness.

For more information about the blogs, meditations and videos, visit Fran Bailey’s official website. To stay updated on her latest events and tips on energy healing, follow her on social media.

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Rick Sechler, CFP® Founder of USA Retirement Solutions, Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast

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Rick Sechler, CFP® Founder of USA Retirement Solutions, Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast

Published on June 7, 2023

Rick Sechler discusses the advantages of fixed-indexed annuities compared to other income-generating choices. 

Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: 

https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-rick-sechler-cfp-founder-of-usa-retirement-solutions/

Fixed-indexed annuities offer several advantages compared to other income-generating products. One of the most significant is the guaranteed income stream they provide for as long as the policyholder is alive. This means people can be sure their retirement savings will last throughout their lifetime, regardless of how markets fluctuate. Fixed-indexed annuities usually have no additional fees or charges so people don’t need to worry about ongoing costs. Fixed-indexed annuities provide peace of mind.

In comparison, other products such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds may provide higher yields but expose individuals to more risk. There is no guarantee that the value of these investments won’t decrease, leaving their retirement income vulnerable. Furthermore, unlike fixed-indexed annuities, additional fees or charges may be associated with such investments, which can erode returns over time. So, while other income-generating products may offer potential gains in the short term, fixed-income annuities are an excellent option for long-term financial security.

Rick explained: “Fixed-indexed annuities are an attractive option for retirees who want to secure their retirement income and enjoy peace of mind. They protect against the risk of market volatility and additional fees or charges. Ultimately, fixed-indexed annuities can enable retirees to enjoy a comfortable standard of living throughout their retirement years.”

He added, “If you’re looking for reliable income during your retirement, then fixed-indexed annuities should be part of your financial planning. Make sure to speak to a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions to make the most informed choice possible. With the right advice and products, you can ensure that your retirement income will last as long as you do.”

 

About Rick Sechler

Rick Sechler is a Certified Financial Planner who truly appreciates the opportunity to serve clients planning for and enjoying their retirement.

Based on over 30 years of experience and the ability to listen for the nuances that make every situation different, he believes in a collaborative process that results in solutions developed by gathering information that integrates personal and financial circumstances and goals. Communication is the most important ingredient to developing the plan that is right for you.

Learn More: https://usaretirementsolutions.info/

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Tom Hegna, Author, Speaker, Economist, and Retirement Income Expert, Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast

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Tom Hegna, Author, Speaker, Economist, and Retirement Income Expert, Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast

Published on June 7, 2023

Tom Hegna discusses how Financial Advisors can thrive in today’s industry to best communicate retirement products with clients and prospects. 

Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network:
https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-tom-hegna-author-speaker-economist-and-retirement-income-expert/

Financial advisors have the potential to thrive in today’s competitive industry by effectively communicating retirement products with clients and prospects. To do so, they must understand the complexities of these kinds of products and present them in an easily understandable way.

Tom explained: “One essential skill for financial advisors is identifying their client’s needs. This means assessing an individual’s current financial situation, including debt levels, income sources, savings goals, and other investments. With this information, advisors can consider which solutions from a broad range of retirement-specific options best suit each unique client.” 

Once identified, financial advisors should educate their clients on all available options – weighing both short-term and long-term considerations. Advisors should also be able to provide the pros and cons of each option so their clients can make informed decisions about their retirement goals.

In addition to providing clear, easy-to-understand information, financial advisors need to keep up with the ever-changing retirement landscape. By staying current on new products, regulations, and other industry changes, advisors can better provide practical advice tailored to a client’s situation.

It’s important to remember that successful communication requires a deep understanding of both people and products – something that all financial advisors must develop over time. By building relationships with clients based on trust and respect while providing sound advice, advisors will have a better chance of helping clients reach their retirement goals.

 

About Tom Hegna

Tom Hegna CLU, ChFC, CASL, is an author, speaker, and economist. He has been an incredibly popular industry speaker for many years and is considered by many to be THE Retirement Income Expert!

As a former Senior Executive Officer at New York Life, retired Lieutenant Colonel, and economist, Tom has delivered over 5,000 seminars, helping Baby Boomers and seniors retire the “optimal” way. He has condensed a large chunk of his considerable knowledge into five of his books:

(1) Paychecks and Playchecks: Retirement Solutions for Life, which is in the top 1% of any book ever sold.

(2) Retirement Income Masters: Secrets of the Pros that compiles the very best practices from the top retirement experts in the country.

(3) Paycheques and Playcheques, Retirement Solutions for Canadians.

(4) Don’t Worry, Retire Happy! Seven Steps to Retirement Security, which is based on his popular Public Television Special that has played in over 80 million homes in the US and Canada.

(5) And most recently: Don’t Worry, Retire Happy! Seven Steps to Retirement Security for Canadians.

Tom specializes in creating simple and powerful retirement solutions based on math and science – not opinions. He has the unique ability to pump up a crowd, make people laugh, and solve complex financial problems using easy-to-understand words, ideas and stories. He is available to speak to businesses, government organizations, professional associations, financial professionals, and their clients all across the globe.

Learn more: https://tomhegna.com/webinars

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