Leadership
Capital crunch shines a light on the importance of founders’ mental health, investors say
![](https://forbes.one/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/710623E9-1CC9-4CD6-A22B-B4D730B489DD.webp)
Mental wellness goes hand-in-hand with innovation and success. For investors then, this needs to be a focus of investment, as risk exposure is also in the wellness of the founder.
n recent years, calling oneself a startup founder was certainly seen as a flex. For those who wielded that role or the coveted CEO position, you were likely to be placed on a pedestal or be viewed as a visionary, aided by a venture capital market that experienced an overextended bull run in the background.
Yet, behind the glamor and front-page interviews and features, the life of a founder can often cause severe issues such as depression, burnout, panic attacks and imposter syndrome that take a toll on one’s mental health — and, if not treated, their startups and the productivity of those within it — employees, operators and executives alike — can suffer.
In 2019, a report showed that 72% of surveyed entrepreneurs self-reported mental health issues, according to Forbes. It’s unclear what these numbers are now; however, it is very likely that they would’ve increased significantly in light of the pandemic, the uncertainty caused by the SVB and FTX collapse, and the widespread impact of the economic downturn that has resulted in a severe cash crunch and massive layoffs.
As this TechCrunch article points out, what drives the mental health epidemic among entrepreneurs is their propensity to accept risk. It also highlights ways to address these issues: prevention and awareness, methods that seem to be growing on a global and Western front whose markets are filled with millions of therapists and apps like Calm; in emerging markets such as Africa, not so much. In addition to having fewer outlets to address mental health issues, founders on the continent are facing a new kind of pressure, the type that comes off the back of a record venture capital year (2021) bolstered by large U.S. and global funds: chasing projections and trying to fit into inflated valuations.
There are other subtler impacts. For instance, the sudden collapse of SVB, despite affecting just a few startups, sent many African founders into panic mode as they scrambled to review banking options to avoid such circumstances creating more uncertainty for them. With never-ending problems, especially in the current bear market, these events highlight the need for founders to prioritize their mental health and for investors and boards to help them seek support when needed.
To explore the issue further, TechCrunch had a chat with Ameya Upadhyay and Lisa Mikkelsen of Flourish Ventures, an evergreen global VC firm that claims to operate a “founder well-being” approach to investing, to discuss why investors need to invest in African founders’ mental wellness. Upadhyay is a venture partner at the firm. At the same time, Mikkelsen is the head of Global Human Capital, an arm of the firm that helps portfolio companies align business and HR strategies, including well-being conversations.
TechCrunch: Why is the discussion around African founders’ mental health critical right now? Did the SVB debacle underscore its importance, or is it a theme waiting to be touched on for years?
Leadership
From Chaos to Victory: Noreen N. Henry’s Journey to Empowering Lives through Victorious Living
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Instagram – www.Instagram.com/victoriouslivingculture
Facebook – www.Facebook.com/NoreenHenry
Linkedin – http://linkedin.com/in/noreen-n-henry-72056913
Website – www.NoreenNHenry.com
Noreen N. Henry is a Victorious Living Strategist known for her knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, along with delivering instant results. One of her passions is seeing lives transformed from defeat to victory. Noreen has faced many trials and tribulations in her life and has learned the tools to be victorious and overcome her circumstances. She has discovered that she can have joy, happiness, and peace amidst chaos while working through her issues. As a result, Noreen founded Victorious Living Culture, where products and services have helped countless people turn their situations into victory. She is a multiple #1 international best-seller, the creator of the Stuck Is NOT Your Story book collaboration series, the Victorious Living Experience conference, and will soon host her own TV talk show. Noreen has three children and five grandchildren (for now). She resides in NYC. Visit her here: www.NoreenNHenry.com / www.StartYourVictoriousLife.com.
What inspired you to become a Victorious Living Strategist, and how did your personal experiences shape this journey?
I was led to become a Victorious Living Strategist by my Divine Creator, based on my life experiences. Like many of us, I experienced numerous trials and tribulations that could have kept me stuck, but I learned the tools to be victorious and overcome my circumstances. I realized I could have joy, happiness, and peace while working through my issues to victory. It all began when I left an emotionally abusive relationship and started buying books and tapes on emotional healing. This was the beginning of my journey to victory. It became my passion to help women learn the tools to live victoriously, tools I didn’t have when I was going through all those issues.
Can you share a particular story or example where your strategies led to a significant transformation in someone’s life?
Where do I start? 🙂 There are so many stories of people’s lives being transformed after learning the tools from Victorious Living Culture’s products and services. One particular story involved a woman realizing that her perceived obstacles didn’t exist and that most of her excuses for inaction were rooted in fear. She is now putting in the work to live the life she has been dreaming of. Victorious Living Culture’s resources have helped her see that she must choose to live her dreams.
What motivated you to create Stuck Is NOT Your Story, and how has it impacted the lives of those who have read it?
Creating the Stuck Is NOT Your Story brand is another program I was inspired to develop by my Divine Creator. Many are stuck in mediocrity, brokenness, and depression, and don’t even realize it. I was once there, thinking I was fine when I was not. The Stuck Is NOT Your Story brand, now a global movement, encourages, inspires, and imparts knowledge and wisdom to its readers. The authors’ courageous and vulnerable stories help readers know they are not alone and that they too can change their circumstances—they don’t need to stay stuck. The word “stuck” itself is powerful, and many are drawn to it. When they read the powerful stories, their lives are greatly impacted in positive ways, realizing that lasting change is possible because Stuck Is NOT Your Story, and Victorious Living, It’s Possible.
Could you explain the key principles behind Victorious Living Culture and how they help individuals turn their situations into victories?
The key principles behind Victorious Living Culture are primarily based on a spiritual life to create victorious habits. The first principle is becoming aware of whether you are living victoriously or not. From my experiences and conversations with many people, so many are living beneath victory and don’t even know it. The second principle is gaining the right knowledge. There’s a lot of knowledge out there, but it’s not all right. The third principle is applying the right knowledge to your life. Gaining the right knowledge but not using it won’t help you live a victorious life; we have to put what we learn into practice. A fourth principle of Victorious Living Culture is wisdom. We make choices daily in our lives, and we must learn to make sure we are making wise decisions that will keep us on the victorious living path. Another principle is doing something different. If we don’t do something different, nothing changes; it either stays the same or gets worse, and I speak from experience. Following these basic principles helps us overcome our circumstances and live a life of victory.
What can attendees expect from the Victorious Living Experience conference, and how does it differ from other self-help events?
The Victorious Living Experience conference was designed to keep attendees engaged, entertained, and enlightened—all while having fun. Participants get to hear powerful speakers, engage in workshops, participate in raffles, and shop with our vendors. Some of the topics we address include awareness of victorious living, what gaining the right knowledge does for them, how to analyze their life, foundational keys to victorious living, and ways to obtain the life God has planned for them, plus more.
How do you balance your professional commitments, such as writing multiple best-sellers and hosting a TV talk show, with your personal life in NYC?
Umm, good question :). How do I balance it all? Like many of us, I have a lot going on, even more so now that I’m walking in my purpose. There was a time, just a few years ago, when I was working long hours every day and ended up in the hospital, so ill because I wasn’t balancing my time. Since that time, which I call a Reset, I plan my time much better. I set priorities, organize and plan my days, weeks, and months, and schedule everything on a calendar, including setting hourly goals. This helps me avoid overwhelm and complete tasks faster. I also have SOPs set up that eliminate repeated tasks, and now that I have a success plan schedule, my balance of time with my commitments, writing projects, etc., has improved even more. Overall, I take things one day at a time and enjoy my life as well.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future of Victorious Living Culture and your upcoming TV talk show?
Recently, things have changed drastically for me, as I’m no longer working at a job. I will now walk in my purpose, and Victorious Living Culture has my full focus. I am excited about the impact Victorious Living Culture’s encounter will have on women to live victoriously with the products, tools, and services we offer. More books and programs will be created to enhance VLC’s offerings to make the impact needed for a global positive shift. Along with the upcoming TV talk show’s teachings and guests, we’ll help people know that they too can live the life of their dreams while overcoming their circumstances to victory. Great times and changes are ahead for Victorious Living Culture.
Leadership
Empowering Lives: A Journey of Financial Freedom and Personal Growth w/ Evangelist Bertha Winston
![](https://forbes.one/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Bertha.png)
www.facebook.com/bertha.winston
www.linkedin.com/in/bertha-winston
www.Instagram.com/winstonexperience
www.retiredanddebtfree.com
www.thewinstonexperience.com
www.destined2millions.com
Evangelist Bertha Winston is a renowned financial expert, writer, and international speaker whose influence extends far beyond her immediate community. She has graced the covers of prominent magazines like Forbes One, Black Woman magazine, Soigne’ + Swank magazine, Nspire magazine, and GLEBB magazine. Her feature on the cover of Women Empowered to Win Global magazine for Mother’s Day and her recognition on a billboard as one of the «2024 Top Women in Business and Ministry» underscores her widespread impact.
Bertha Winston’s literary journey is as impressive as her public presence. She has authored several bestsellers, including «Empowered To Win 4th Edition,» «UNSHAKABLE FAITH,» «Redirect, Redefine & Renew You,» «Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt,» and «Love, Lead and Let Go.» Her recent releases, «Women Empowered to Win,» «The Glory of His Presence,» and «9 Voices 1 Message,» introduced in Toronto, Canada, demonstrate her dedication to financial empowerment and personal growth.
Having retired from her position as an office manager at a prestigious law firm in the District of Columbia, Bertha has redirected her energies toward guiding people on how to create passive income streams and achieve a debt-free retirement. Her life embodies resilience and faith, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration to those striving for financial independence.
At the heart of Bertha Winston’s mission is her company, The Winston Experience and Destined2Millions. Through this platform, she guides clients towards achieving financial freedom and creating wealth. What sets The Winston Experience apart is its commitment to treating clients like family. «We don’t judge them, and they feel like we are family and are comfortable working with us because they know that we are going to fight for them to reach their financial goals,» Bertha explains. The company has developed systems that clients can plug into, providing peace of mind and the assurance that they are in good hands.
Bertha’s approach to financial education is unique and impactful. Her methods are designed to help clients grow their money faster and gain the resources needed to help their communities. The emphasis on personal connection and unwavering support is what makes The Winston Experience a standout in the financial services industry.
Beyond her professional achievements, Bertha Winston’s life is a testament to the power of faith and resilience. As a dynamic educator and influencer, she continues to inspire others on their journey to financial independence. Her ability to blend financial expertise with personal empowerment has made her a sought-after speaker and a beloved mentor to many.
Tell us about the latest books that you have published.
I’ve recently published three books that I’m very proud of. The first is «Women Empowered to Win,» which is a collection of inspiring stories from women who have overcome significant challenges and achieved great success in their lives. It’s a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of women from all walks of life.
The second book is «The Glory of His Presence,» which delves into the profound experiences and testimonies of individuals who have encountered divine presence in their lives. It’s a spiritually uplifting read that showcases the transformative power of faith.
Finally, «9 Voices, 1 Message» is a collaboration featuring nine different authors, each sharing their unique perspectives and insights on a common theme. It’s a rich and diverse collection that brings together a variety of voices to deliver a powerful, unified message,which was introduced in Toronto, Canada.
Can you share a personal story that exemplifies how you embraced change and discovered your true potential?
When I was 62 years old, I found myself at a crossroads. I wanted to retire, but I discovered I had not planned properly and was not financially in a position to retire; therefore, I had to work 10 more years before I could retire. I had always been passionate about helping people, and I enjoyed the moments when I could provide financial advice to friends and family, seeing how it made a real difference in their lives. However, the idea of retiring to pursue something uncertain was daunting.
One evening, I attended a seminar on financial planning, and the speaker’s passion was infectious. It reignited something in me. I realized that it wasn’t too late to make a change, and I decided to take a leap of faith. I enrolled in a financial coaching certification program, dedicating my evenings and weekends to studying. It wasn’t easy balancing work, studies, and family, but my determination grew stronger with each passing day.
Upon completing the program, I faced another significant challenge: building a client base from scratch. I leveraged my network, offering free workshops and seminars to showcase my expertise. Slowly but surely, word of mouth began to spread. Each client success story fueled my passion, reaffirming my decision to embrace this new path.
One particular client, a young couple burdened with debt and financial anxiety, stands out in my memory. Through consistent coaching and personalized financial planning, they managed to turn their situation around, eventually buying their first home. Seeing their joy and knowing I played a part in their journey was incredibly fulfilling.
Looking back, the decision to embrace change at 62 was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It not only allowed me to discover my true potential but also brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I had been missing. Now, as a financial coach at 73, I continue to inspire others, showing them that it’s never too late to pursue your passion and make a meaningful impact.
How are you helping people in the finance and credit world?
As a financial coach, I help individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of finance and credit through personalized guidance and education. My approach includes:
- Financial Literacy Education: I provide workshops, seminars, and one-on-one coaching sessions to educate clients on fundamental financial concepts, such as budgeting, saving, investing, and credit management. By enhancing their financial literacy, clients are better equipped to make informed decisions.
- Customized Financial Planning: I work closely with clients to develop tailored financial plans that align with their unique goals and circumstances. This includes creating budgets, setting savings targets, planning for retirement, and managing debt.
- Credit Improvement Strategies: I assist clients in understanding their credit reports and scores, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing strategies to enhance their creditworthiness. This can involve disputing inaccuracies, reducing debt, and establishing positive credit behaviors.
- Debt Management and Reduction: I help clients develop strategies to manage and reduce their debt, whether it’s through consolidating loans, negotiating with creditors, or creating repayment plans. The goal is to alleviate financial stress and move towards financial stability.
- Investment Guidance: I provide insights into various investment options and help clients build diversified portfolios that match their risk tolerance and financial goals. This includes education on stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles.
- Ongoing Support and Accountability: I offer continuous support and accountability to ensure clients stay on track with their financial goals. Regular check-ins and progress reviews help clients remain motivated and make necessary adjustments to their plans.
Through these efforts, I empower clients to achieve financial independence, build wealth, and secure their financial future.
How has your experience as the eldest of eleven children influenced your approach to leadership and motivation?
While I am the eldest of eleven children, my upbringing was distinct as I was adopted and did not live with my biological siblings. This unique situation has still influenced my approach to leadership and motivation in several ways.
Knowing that I have biological siblings with different life experiences has heightened my awareness of diverse perspectives. This understanding helps me appreciate the varied backgrounds and viewpoints within my team, fostering an inclusive and empathetic leadership style.
Growing up in an adoptive family taught me resilience and adaptability. These qualities are essential in leadership, enabling me to navigate change and uncertainty with confidence. I encourage my team to be flexible and open to new ideas, helping them thrive in dynamic environments.
Although I did not grow up with my biological siblings, the knowledge of their existence instilled in me the importance of connection and relationships. I prioritize building strong, supportive relationships within my team, emphasizing collaboration and mutual respect.
My unique family background has reinforced the significance of individual growth and self-discovery. As a leader, I strive to understand the personal and professional aspirations of each team member, providing opportunities for development and growth tailored to their needs.
Understanding the complexities of family dynamics, both biological and adoptive, has deepened my empathy and compassion. I lead with a focus on understanding and addressing the emotional and practical needs of my team, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
Recognizing that everyone’s journey is different, I motivate my team by understanding their individual motivations and aligning them with our collective goals. This personalized approach helps each member feel valued and driven to contribute their best.
While my experience as the eldest of eleven children is unconventional, it has profoundly shaped my leadership and motivational approach. I lead with empathy, adaptability, and a focus on building meaningful connections, ensuring that each team member feels supported and empowered to achieve their full potential.
What advice would you give to someone who is facing a difficult period and needs to find their inner strength?
Facing a difficult period can be incredibly challenging, but finding your inner strength is essential to overcoming adversity.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Accepting your emotions is the first step. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or upset. Acknowledging these feelings without judgment can provide clarity.
2. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Breaking down larger challenges into smaller, manageable tasks can help create a sense of accomplishment and progress. Celebrate each small victory.
3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your struggles can provide relief and new perspectives.
4. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This could include exercise, meditation, hobbies, or simply taking time to rest.
5. Stay Positive: Focus on positive aspects of your life and things you’re grateful for. This can shift your mindset and provide motivation to keep going.
6. Learn and Adapt: View challenges as opportunities for growth. Reflect on what the situation can teach you and how you can use this knowledge in the future.
7. Financial Management: Since financial stress can exacerbate difficult times, create a budget and identify areas where you can cut costs. Seek professional financial advice if necessary.
8. Stay Connected: Maintaining social connections can provide emotional support and practical help. Engaging with a community can reduce feelings of isolation.
Remember, everyone has inner strength, and often it’s through facing and overcoming challenges that we discover just how resilient we are.
Leadership
Rising Above: Lorna Blake’s Journey from Setbacks to Success
![](https://forbes.one/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lorna.png)
Facebook – Facebook.com/Lornamblake
Linkedin – Linkedin.com/LornaMBlake
Youtube – Youtube.com/LornaBlakeEmpowers
Instagram – www.Instagram.com/LornaMBlake
Website – https://mpowerurself.com/
Lorna Blake is an International Speaker, Success Coach, Author, and Real Estate Investor. Born to a poor teenage mom in rural Jamaica, she overcame poverty, abandonment, and abuse. Today, Lorna is a world traveler with a powerful success story. She has lived in five countries, traveled to nearly 20, and inspired thousands globally. Lorna was a featured author in the No More Chains: It’s Time For Change anthology and was highlighted in the 2019 film documentary of the same name. Her first solo book, Born To Rise: A Journey From Setbacks To Comebacks & Lessons Learned, has won several awards, including the International Impact Book Award. She has shared stages with Tony Robbins’ Top Business Strategist, Anthony Demario and Oprah Winfrey’s life partner Stedman Graham. Lorna was recently honored with a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
How did your journey as an international speaker and success coach inspire you to write «Born To Rise»?
More than ten years ago in Canada, I was booked as the keynote speaker on How To Bounce Back From Setbacks. Sharing my story of persistence through multiple rejections as a black, single mom seeking a teaching job in South Korea, I inspired many. Despite being told I wouldn’t be hired, I persisted, was hired, and even met my husband there. After my speech, many thanked me for motivating them to rise, including a woman who became one of my first coaching clients. This overwhelming feedback and frequent inquiries about whether I had written a book led me to write Born To Rise.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your life that significantly influenced the message of your book?
I experienced several pivotal moments that shaped me profoundly—being abandoned by my father before birth, growing up in poverty, and enduring physical and sexual abuse. These challenges forced me to rely on a power greater than myself early on, strengthening my faith and resilience. I share these experiences to show others that they too can rise from adversity.
How do you integrate lessons from your book into your speaking engagements and coaching sessions?
? I incorporate practices like mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, mindset strategies, and prosperity principles from my book into my speaking and coaching. I tailor these strategies to fit the specific needs of my audience or clients which is an amazing way to achieve success with ease and joy.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors and speakers who want to use their personal experiences to inspire others?
If you have a message to share, educate yourself, invest in skills and knowledge, surround yourself with others who are successful at what you desire to do then take action. Start by speaking at local venues and participating in anthologies to gain confidence and exposure. Embrace technology to help, but remember, success requires you to put in the effort. Just start—your audience is waiting for you and your message. You’ve got this!
![](https://forbes.one/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lorna-Blake-2-1024x683.jpg)
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