I would float around for hours, watching the sea life in the canal walls. Under the floating dock I was fascinated (and sort of spooked) by the huge fish lingering there, swaying under the water with their mouths opening and closing. The canal wall itself housed all sorts of ocean life – there were lobsters, crabs, and even an octopus. If you sat on the floating dock, it was not unusual to see brightly colored angel fish, triggerfish, and even seahorses swimming up to examine your toes.  At the bottom of the canal you could see the alien-like outlines of the bodies of horseshoe crabs.  The canal was teeming with life, and as a child I could not get enough of it.

We moved away from the Florida Keys in 1984 and left for the even-more-exotic Thailand.  Upon our return to the United States, by circa 1989, my father and I flew out to get our house in the Keys ready to sell. I dove into the canal as I always had as a child, only to find murky waters and almost no sea life.  A stray minnow was about all one could see.  In the span of less than ten years, virtually all of the life in the canal had disappeared.

Living in the Keys once again, I share this story often, perhaps too much.  The canals here are not as I remembered them as a child, though I’m sure some are still sustaining sea life.  Clearly it made an impression on me, and I have hoped that I could somehow make a positive impact during my adulthood in the Florida Keys, so my kids could experience something close to what I experienced as a child.  I love to meet people who are actually doing something to help ocean life.  As such, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview inventor and entrepreneur Eric Le Quéré.

Eric Le Quéré’s deep connection with the ocean was nurtured along Brittany’s rugged coastline, where his childhood love of waves and sails led him to pursue naval engineering. Over the years, this passion and years spent at sea transformed into a lifelong commitment to maritime excellence.

Eric’s career spans diverse roles, from Captain/ship owner to Shipyard Owner/CEO and International Project Manager. These experiences have provided him with a profound understanding of the maritime industry’s challenges and opportunities, driving him to address some of its most pressing issues.

As an inventor and entrepreneur with a lifetime in the maritime sector, Eric is focused on creating meaningful impact with his technologies in three transformative areas: marine ecosystem protection (Boaxt), sustainable ocean resource management (Netless), and decarbonization of maritime transport (Wingfurl).

Eric explained each one of his inventions to me:

Boaxt is a modular platform that unfolds space on the water, offering versatile applications such as floating housing, events, and marine sustainability projects.  Wingfurl is a revolutionary technology designed to decarbonize vessel propulsion, making maritime transport more sustainable. Finally, Netless is a fishing technology inspired by whales, allowing sustainable fishing without nets, while also removing marine plastic waste.

Eric has always had a natural inclination to create solutions to real-world problems. He explained that to invent something, one must first identify a need.  Find a pressing challenge that requires a solution. Then find inspiration in solving it.  Understand the problem deeply and explore nature, science, and technology for answers.  Lastly, you must have the intellectual agility to conceive a solution.  This requires a mix of knowledge, adaptability, and the ability to turn an idea into a tangible reality. Eric believes there are no real limits or obstacles to achieving sustainability goals, if stakeholders have the vision to innovate, the intention to drive change, and the resources to make it happen. If sustainability initiatives fail to progress, it is not due to a lack of possibilities, but rather due to political hesitation and a failure to assess the risks of inaction. He says the solutions exist – the only question is who will take the lead in implementing them?

Eric’s inventions most certainly solve a pressing challenge, and while my experience with ocean pollution is in the Florida Keys and Thailand, he is currently focusing on the Middle East.  He explained to me that Middle Eastern economies have traditionally been reliant on oil and gas, with some exceptions like Dubai.  However, these nations have amassed significant sovereign wealth funds and are now prioritizing sustainability and AI-driven projects.  Given this shift, his technologies along with other sustainability-focused innovations align perfectly with their strategic focus on green energy, marine conservation, and alternative economic models. Having become keenly aware of the global CO2 and plastic pollution crisis, the Middle East is now recognizing both the moral imperative and financial opportunity and have prioritized impact-driven investments in sustainability and marine conservation.

Why the Middle East?

The Middle East offers an exceptional business environment, characterized by swift decision-making, strong government commitment to industrial innovation, and access to large-scale funding. Eric believes that by leveraging these advantages, we can accelerate manufacturing and deployment of maritime technologies not just in the Gulf, but globally. Parallels exist between global marine ecosystem challenges and those specific to the Gulf region. The Gulf region’s coastlines and marine waters are largely artificial, with limited currents and tidal exchanges, which results in a higher risk of plastic accumulation, reduced water circulation, and ecosystem degradation.  Eric’s inventions, in particular Boaxt and Netless, could provide an immediate, cost-effective remedy to protect Gulf marine ecosystems as they tackle marine pollution and biodiversity protection. Eric believes we are currently in a critical transition period between traditional maritime technologies and next-generation innovations. Gulf countries, with their sovereign funds and commitment to sustainability, have a unique opportunity to accelerate funding for disruptive projects.  By doing so, Eric believes they will gain a competitive edge in R&D and establish themselves as global leaders in maritime sustainability.

Since Dubai Expo 2020, and with the upcoming Riyadh Expo 2030, the Gulf has emerged as a global center for technological breakthroughs.  The Middle East has strengthened international partnerships and has positioned itself as a leader in impact-driven investments. The Middle East has now positioned itself as a hub for innovation investment.  For Middle Eastern nations to ensure that sustainability investments lead to real impact, for sustainability to truly drive change, Gulf nations and stakeholders must go beyond financial investment. There must be an absolute commitment to becoming global game changers. By positioning themselves at the forefront of socio-economic and environmental transformation, Middle Eastern nations can set new standards for sustainability worldwide.  Funding and technology are no longer obstacles – sovereign funds exist, and intellectual property protections are in place.  The main challenge is recruiting skilled teams for large-scale industrialization.

Luckily, the Gulf has a proven track record of attracting global talent for ambitious projects.

Eric Le Quéré is ready for those projects, and he has created the technologies.  Each one is at a different state of maturity, offering immediate collaboration potential.  Boaxt is ready for direct deployment.  Netless is reaching full operational status by spring 2025. Wingfurl is moving into prototype phase by fall 2025.

These technologies provide practical, scalable solutions that can accelerate sustainability efforts in the Middle East and beyond.

Perhaps that beyond could be the Florida Keys one day.

If you would like to learn more about Eric Le Quéré and his world-changing inventions, please visit le-quere.com.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.

In light of the rapidly changing circumstances in the Middle East, and the recent developments, there are many questions about the future of Iraq, particularly following the collapse of the Hezbollah system in Lebanon and the swift downfall of the Iranian-backed regime in Damascus.

What does the future hold for Iraq? How will U.S. foreign policy toward the Middle East evolve under the incoming Trump administration? How can the new administration establish a political balance in the region that fosters peace and stability while advancing shared strategic interests?

To explore the answers to these questions, I recently had the opportunity to interview Mukhlis Mukhlis. A renowned expert on foreign affairs, with more than two decades worth of experience with national security, counterterrorism, and the geopolitical conditions of the Middle East.

A proud American of Iraqi descent, Mukhlis comes from a family that has significantly influenced the political and social landscape of several Arab states since the early 1920s. His family was pivotal in establishing the Arab Kingdom of Syria under King Faisal of the Hashemite dynasty, who later became King of Iraq. The family also contributed to the creation of the Emirate of Trans-Jordan, which evolved into the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and played a key role in founding the Kingdom of Iraq in 1921 and Iraq’s first national army.

The Mukhlis family has shaped Iraq’s political foundation, resisted Ottoman and British colonialism, and was instrumental in establishing the Iraqi state during the monarchy era from 1920 to 1958.

Mukhlis’ family maintained extensive social and tribal connections throughout the Arabian Peninsula, Jordan, and Syria, positioning them at the center of the region’s political landscape. Despite this, Iraq has always remained their focal point.

With this wealth of history, and in-depth knowledge of Iraq, I asked Mukhlis about his assessment of Iraq in light of the current situation in the region.

Mukhlis indicated that Iraq had become geopolitically isolated, particularly following the collapse of Hezbollah’s system in Lebanon and the collapse of the Iranian-backed regime in Syria.

His interpretation of the regional scene leads him to believe that the recent developments have transformed Iraq, which was previously viewed as the primary conduit for logistical and military support for Iran’s operations in the Levant, into the final bastion of the Iranian Islamic Revolution’s expansionist agenda that began with the regime’s rise to power in Iran in 1979.

Mukhlis is also known for supporting President Trump since his first term and is recognized for his strong connections with several members of Trump’s new team.

When inquired about his willingness to assist the new administration in navigating this complex process, Mukhlis indicated his readiness to leverage his expertise, deep understanding of strategic challenges, and personal and familial historical ties in the region to aid the Trump administration in its efforts to restore stability in the Middle East.

Mukhlis further stressed that as President-elect Donald Trump begins a new term, the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy toward Iraq reveal both significant opportunities and considerable challenges. Given Iraq’s geopolitical significance in the Middle East, a strategic focus on rebuilding the country’s political structure, countering Iranian influence, and actively engaging in Iraq’s energy sector emerges as essential for fostering regional stability. This approach not only aims to enhance the economic prospects for American businesses but also addresses the burgeoning demand within the Iraqi market.

President Trump has consistently advocated against unnecessary military interventions in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Iraq invasion. Nonetheless, his renewed focus on international affairs presents an opportunity to reshape U.S. foreign policy in a way that not only enhances America’s global standing but also strengthens international alliances. This vision integrates domestic interests with foreign policy, emphasizing economic growth through enhanced trade, security partnerships, and geopolitical collaborations.

In order to establish a pragmatic roadmap for U.S. engagement in Iraq, it is essential to first recognize the strategic significance of Iraq within the broader geopolitical context. Subsequently, a comprehensive assessment of the challenges encountered in American foreign policy over the past two decades will be instrumental in guiding reforms that are designed to achieve enduring strategic objectives, in harmony with the interests of the United States and its regional allies.

What are the key strategic interests of the United States in Iraq?

Mukhlis sees Iraq’s importance to the United States as multifaceted. Its strategic location in the Middle East positions it as a pivotal player in regional stability, capable of counteracting the influence of other powers, particularly Iran, should Iraq become a truly sovereign country and free of the Iranian dominance that has been demonstrated for the past two decades that followed the regime change in 2003. Should the U.S. ignore or abandon Iraq, Iran would be strengthened considerably, posing a serious threat not only to the region but way beyond the regional boundaries.

Additionally, as one of the world’s largest oil producers, Iraq’s energy resources are vital to global oil markets, linking U.S. interests in secure energy supplies to Iraq’s production capabilities. Furthermore, Iraq has been central to counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the fight against Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other radical groups framing U.S. involvement in the region as a means to promote security and combat extremism.
Delving deeper into the significance of Iraq on the regional and international levels, Mukhlis explained a number of important aspects:

Geo-strategic Context

Iraq’s critical geographical position, situated amidst Iran, Syria, Jordan, Turkey, and the Gulf States, renders it a vital logistical hub for regional security.

Economic Context

Iraq is rich in diverse resources, holding the fifth-largest oil reserves globally and ranking twelfth for natural gas reserves. Additionally, it boasts the largest sulfur reserves in the world and the second largest reserves of phosphates, iron, silica, and other minerals, which means Iraq possesses significant economic potential, potentially rivaling or exceeding the returns from crude oil if these reserves are effectively harnessed through a strategic industrial approach and careful investment.

Geopolitical Considerations

Many experts in Iraqi political and security dynamics assert that prioritizing Iraq’s geopolitical significance should be a central tenet of U.S. foreign policy. This is crucial for several reasons, chiefly to mitigate the expansion of Iranian influence in the region, which poses a risk of igniting a regional conflict detrimental to U.S. interests, not only in the Middle East but globally.

Practical Dimensions

A prosperous Iraq would likely enhance its capacity to combat extremist groups. This shift could diminish the need for direct U.S. military engagement and pave the way for more effective counterterrorism partnerships, while strategically, a stable Iraq could emerge as a vital ally for the United States, counterbalancing the influence of regional powers like Iran and addressing the economic expansion efforts of nations such as Russia and China.

Additionally, the presence of a stable Iraq might lessen the necessity for a large U.S. military footprint in the region. This would allow for a reallocation of resources to other strategic priorities. If the proper systems are established, Iraq could evolve into a pivotal military and intelligence ally, capable of conducting various operations in collaboration with U.S. forces, similar to the relationships the U.S. maintains with Jordan and other regional partners.

In summary, the prospect of a stable Iraq presents an opportunity for the United States to cultivate a more favorable environment for its interests, ultimately promoting peace, security, and economic growth both regionally and domestically. A stable and prosperous Iraq holds considerable implications for the United States, shaping both regional dynamics and U.S. foreign policy.

The Roadmap to the Revitalization of Iraq

First, it is crucial to reaffirm U.S. support for the secular factions, intellectual leaders, and the largely unorganized silent majority within various opposition movements striving for a peaceful resolution. These groups, while lacking a unified structure or central leadership to rally around, represent a significant force for positive change.

Second, there must be a concerted effort to dismantle the ideological foundations that radical and terrorist organizations rely upon to cultivate and recruit their operatives.

Finally, it is vital to weaken and disrupt states and regimes that promote and sponsor violence, while simultaneously perpetuating a monopoly over criminal organizations, militias, and armed groups that seek to exert influence and instill terror. Such measures are necessary to create a more stable and secure environment conducive to lasting peace.

Mukhlis strongly believes that initiatives aimed at fostering and strengthening peace in the Middle East and beyond are crucial, founded on mutual understanding and coexistence. These efforts highlight the importance of respecting human dignity and freedom, including religious liberty, which are vital for nurturing harmonious relationships among nations and communities.

Building on this foundation, the U.S. has a significant opportunity to further advance its vision for a stable and prosperous region. By leveraging the principles of cooperation and dialogue, we can promote partnerships that enhance peace and stability, paving the way for a brighter future for all involved and for generations to come.

Mukhlis believes that the United States must undertake a comprehensive restructuring of its relationship with Iraq through a series of political and legal frameworks. If the U.S., in collaboration with its allies and the international community, can facilitate internal changes that empower Iraq to become a stable, strong, and independent nation, it will significantly contribute to peace in the region while advancing U.S. strategic interests. This endeavor would help establish a robust framework for a cohesive and allied system that values peace, strengthens strategic ties, and enhances regional security, as well as economic and scientific prosperity alongside partners in the region and globally.

The Iraq we envision, and the one that the Iraqi people aspire to, urgently requires U.S. support as a partner in achieving the balance and stability they seek. Moreover, there is a critical strategic interest for the United States in Iraq, particularly in the long term, as it pertains to countering the growing economic and political influence of Russia and China in the Middle East, and specifically within Iraq. Both the Russian and Chinese governments are actively working to expand their presence in Iraq, often at the expense of U.S. interests, which has resulted in a decline of U.S. economic investments, most notably in the energy sector, where Russian and Chinese companies have supplanted American firms. This shift has serious implications not only for Iraq but also for other countries in the region, particularly those where the energy sector serves as a cornerstone of both national and global economies.

How can the U.S. counter Iranian influence in the region?

Mukhlis emphasizes the importance of understanding the threat posed by the Iranian regime to develop effective countermeasures. This will necessitate sustained efforts to create a cohesive political framework among regional nations, align their positions, and devise practical strategies to address the Iranian threat. It is also crucial to encourage collaboration among these nations and Israel to establish a parallel deterrent force, particularly in Iraq, recognized as a key strategic front against Iranian expansion.

Countering Iranian influence is vital to U.S. strategy in Iraq, as Iran’s significant control over the country’s political and military institutions often undermines its sovereignty. To effectively tackle this challenge, the U.S. must empower Iraqis to shape their own future and build the government they aspire to, as the narrative of democracy in Iraq has often been misleading, with a rigged electoral system in place.

The potential for Iran to achieve nuclear capabilities further complicates the situation, enabling it to project power and exert influence in response to strategic setbacks, especially in Lebanon and Syria, where Hezbollah’s network has weakened and the Syrian regime has collapsed.

Iran’s strategic gains in Iraq are well-documented, particularly in circumventing U.S. economic sanctions. The Iranian regime has leveraged its allies in Iraq to support its operations and affiliated terrorist organizations across the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.

U.S. foreign policy should focus on strengthening Iraq’s relationships with its Arab neighbors and fostering regional alliances to enhance Iraq’s connections with Gulf states and other regional partners.

Envisioning a new U.S. strategy for counterterrorism

Mukhlis explained that a definitive understanding of the term terrorism is essential. Initially, it is crucial to categorize violent reactions or insurgency into two distinct scenarios: certain groups may be effectively managed through a policy of containment. This is a principle recognized by most counterterrorism experts especially those in the intelligence community. Actively engaging with these groups to discern their intentions through direct dialogue and negotiations can potentially yield positive outcomes. Mukhlis has firsthand knowledge of numerous instances of this approach through direct involvement during the years following the regime change in Iraq in 2003.

There is an undebatable fact that the U.S. approach to counterterrorism in Iraq has often been limited, focusing predominantly on specific radical factions identified by sectarian lines. In the pursuit of defeating ISIS, the U.S. has provided substantial support to various Iraqi armed groups, frequently overlooking their affiliations and connections to the Iranian regime. Many of these groups serve as regional proxies for the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, akin to Hezbollah and other recognized terrorist organizations. This sectarian approach has inadvertently concentrated power and control over Iraq’s strategic resources in the hands of a select few, marginalizing the broader Iraqi populace since the 2003 invasion.

One notable example was the dialogue initiated with the Taliban during the first Trump administration. However, the subsequent administration committed a significant strategic error. Rather than building upon the approach established by the Trump administration to facilitate a gradual, strategic, and secure withdrawal aimed at concluding two decades of conflict that yielded only losses for the United States, the Biden administration proceeded with a hasty and poorly planned withdrawal from Afghanistan. The repercussions of this decision are likely to manifest in the years ahead.

Operationally, a prevalent error in the counterterrorism effort is the emphasis on cutting off the financial resources that support terrorism, while neglecting to analyze the mindset and ideologies that motivate individuals to join these groups. It is crucial to understand the beliefs that compel these individuals to engage with such organizations. If there had been greater scrutiny of the curricula and lectures presented to students in Hezbollah-affiliated institutions in Lebanon, as well as the religious seminaries in Najaf, Iraq, and the training programs of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards in Qom and Tehran, we would gain valuable insights into how extremist ideologies are cultivated and sustained.

Counterterrorism strategies are a complex combination of approaches, methodologies and tactics that Mukhlis personally believes should not be discussed publicly, otherwise it would lose its effectiveness, validity and value. However, in general, the best strategy the new U.S. administration can develop and implement to effectively tackle counterterrorism in Iraq, is first to bring justice.

In summarizing over two decades of his personal experience in counterterrorism, it is evident that the primary catalyst for violent extremism, which may culminate in terrorism, is rooted in perceptions of injustice. A multifaceted strategy is imperative, one that transcends mere military engagement and addresses the foundational issues that fuel terrorism. This includes strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms with well-structured Iraqi security forces, promoting political stability, and driving economic development to create viable alternatives that diminish the allure of extremist ideologies. Furthermore, fostering engagement with local communities and supporting grassroots initiatives focused on reconciliation and unity will be critical to cultivating a resilient society capable of withstanding terrorist influences. While the complete eradication of extremist ideologies may be unattainable, it is feasible to disrupt and diminish the factors that sustain these ideologies.

But how do we get there?

The Middle East has faced, and continues to face, significant challenges and enduring conflicts, resulting in tremendous losses in lives, property, resources, and potential futures for its people. Now, more than ever, it is imperative for the citizens of this region to adopt a fresh approach centered on peaceful coexistence, grounded in mutual respect among civilizations, religions, nationalities, and, most crucially, the human element.

This vision for a harmonious future cannot solely be realized through governmental action; it fundamentally relies on the awareness and commitment of the people themselves. A genuine desire for peaceful coexistence must emerge from the grassroots level, coupled with a firm rejection of terrorism, violence, and the pursuit of control. By fostering dialogue and understanding, the people of the Middle East can pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future.

A crucial aspect for success in the region is the significant Iraqi opposition that is currently in exile. Over the past two decades successive U.S. administrations and decision-making institutions have failed to recognize the widespread rejection of most individuals and parties that were given power in Iraq following the fall of the regime in 2003. In summary, what transpired in Iraq can be described as a transition from a singular dictatorship to multiple authoritarian factions, which transformed the country into a breeding ground for terrorism, crime, and corruption. Ultimately, Iraq has become a strategic base exploited by the Tehran regime and the Iranian Revolutionary Guards to support and finance criminal organizations and terrorist activities throughout the region.

The Iraqi popular opposition movement, present in every household and family, both within the country and among the renewed forces in exile, holds immense reserves of resources, energies, and aspirations.

The masses of popular opposition are actively involved, many are considered the silent majority, and others are residing in exile to escape injustice, tyranny, and persecution. Those in the United States are hopeful that the new U.S. administration under President Trump will provide them with the hope of a safer, more stable, and prosperous Iraq – one that is free from terrorism, corruption, and the influence of militias and sectarian political parties pursuing harmful foreign agendas that threaten peace and stability in the region.

This popular momentum seeks security, stability, and peace in the region, aiming to foster collaborative relationships that promote shared interests both regionally and internationally.

It is essential to acknowledge that the journey toward peace may necessitate a decisive confrontation with the forces of evil and darkness, whose sole objectives are destruction, instability, and bloodshed. Mukhlis believes that President Trump, along with many candidates in his prospective administration, understands this reality and has the potential to restore equilibrium through a series of strategic actions.

What is needed now is a completely new proactive, rather than reactive policy toward Iraq.

It’s not a secret anymore that the successive U.S. administrations since the regime change in Iraq were not properly engaged and at some point not just failed to address the challenges on the ground, but in fact they often contributed to the problem rather than being part of the solution. Given Iraq’s geopolitical significance in the Middle East, a strategic focus on rebuilding the country’s political structure, countering Iranian influence, and actively engaging in Iraq’s energy sector emerges as essential for fostering regional stability. This approach not only aims to enhance the economic prospects for American businesses but also addresses the burgeoning demand within the Iraqi market. A successful and stable Iraq would be a gift to the world.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

It was the dreaded time of year, the holidays.  I inwardly cringed at the incessant questions about where I would spend Christmas, would I be alone, did I have a special someone, why was I still single?  The truth was, I didn’t care about what I did for the holidays at that point in my life, but it was so socially stressful to field the endless questions and endure the looks of pity I inevitably received.  The pressure of not being married was real.  Questions from family friends would lead down that road of asking if I had any “good prospects”.  Thirty-six and unmarried – the pressure was on!

I waited until I had a career to get married and have kids, but so many of my friends fell prey to the “you’re old at thirty, you better hurry up and have kids while you can,” mentality only to find themselves at mid-life getting divorced and not knowing who they were anymore. Though I’ve never been through a divorce, I know what it’s like to have long term relationships end and the feeling of being somewhat lost upon being single again.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Kathryne Mejias, Founder of Born for More. Her personal journey through divorce and self-discovery inspired her to create Born for More which became her way to align her career with her passion for empowering women to redefine themselves and embrace their full potential. As a speaker and mental health advocate, Kathryne uses meditation, energy healing, and mindset resets to help women reconnect with their authentic selves. Through coaching, events, and speaking engagements, Kathryne helps women turn their challenges into opportunities for transformation. Her upcoming book, The Soulful Divorcée, is a fresh, empowering guide to navigating divorce, processing emotions, and reclaiming your power. It follows her first book, Soulful Beauty, which inspires women to embrace their inner confidence and strength.

Born for More is about helping women release the past patterns that once defined them and step into the lives they truly want. It’s more than just personal growth, it’s a community that focuses on redefining divorce and life’s transitions, shifting the narrative from victimhood to empowerment. Divorce, in particular, can feel like the end, but Kathryne sees it as the beginning of a new cycle, a chance to embrace who you are and create a life that aligns with your highest self. This is a space for women to heal, grow, and discover their potential, embodying who they were always meant to be.

Kathryne explained to me that divorce has been the most challenging experience of her life. She describes it as a journey that stripped her bare, forcing her to confront fears, doubts, and emotions she didn’t even know existed. At times, she felt like the ground beneath her was crumbling, leaving her with no choice but to dig deep and uncover and inner strength she had yet to meet.

Divorce is often painted as an ending, but for Kathryne, it became a beginning. It was the start of a life where she would no longer settle for less than she deserves or tolerate the things she once thought she had to endure. Divorce was the catalyst that allowed her to write a completely new book.

Even in the most painful moments, transformation is possible. You can rise, not as the person you were, but as the person you are destined to become.

The biggest struggle for people dealing with divorce is often stepping away from the life they knew and entering the unknown. It’s not just about ending a marriage; it’s about letting go of routines, plans, and a vision for the future you may have held for years. That transition can feel overwhelming, like you’re walking into uncharted territory without a map.

For single parents, the challenges are amplified. Juggling schedules, managing responsibilities, and co-parenting effectively can feel like a constant balancing act. It’s emotionally taxing to create a sense of stability for your children while you’re still finding your own footing.

But Kathryne believes that with these challenges come opportunities for growth. You discover an inner strength you didn’t know you had, learn to navigate life in a way that aligns with your truth, and create a new chapter that reflects the person you’re becoming. The journey is tough, but it’s also transformative. She believes that the hardest part about being single or unmarried is learning to navigate life on your own terms, without leaning on the societal norms or expectations that often come with being in a relationship. It can be challenging to face those moments of solitude, but they also hold the greatest rewards. Being single gives you the space to truly get to know yourself – your desires, passions, and what makes you happy without external influence. It’s a time for self-discovery and growth, where you can focus on building a life that reflects your authentic self. While there are times you might long for companionship, it’s also an opportunity to cultivate a deep connection with yourself and create a foundation of self-love that will only enhance future relationships.

Kathryne helps people navigate divorce by guiding them to shift their perspective from feeling like a victim to embracing it as a time of empowerment and transformation. Divorce is challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to release what no longer serves you and create a life that truly aligns with who you are.

Through her Soulful Sessions, she works one-on-one with individuals to rebuild their self-worth, heal from past patterns, and gain clarity about their next steps. These sessions are tailored to each person’s needs and include meditation, mindset resets, energy work, and actionable strategies. Her goal is to help clients feel confident, empowered, and beautiful from the inside out as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

Kathryne has been through the entire divorce process herself, so she can deeply relate to the emotional highs and lows that come with it. Her experience allows her to connect with her clients on a personal level, offering both empathy and guidance to help them navigate their journey. Ultimately, she helps people not only move forward but to do so with confidence, self-love, and a renewed sense of beauty and purpose.

Healing after divorce involves several equally important steps that all center on building a solid relationship with yourself. First, never settle for anything less than you deserve. Divorce is an opportunity to redefine your standards and align your life with your true worth. It’s essential to stop putting yourself aside – prioritize your needs, dreams, and well-being.

Second, fill your own cup first. Focus on nurturing yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically. When you find happiness within yourself, you create a foundation that isn’t reliant on anyone else. Instead, relationships become an extension of your self-worth and happiness, not the source of it.

Finally, remember that healing is a journey. Give yourself grace, take the time to rediscover who you are, and trust that this process will lead you to a more aligned and fulfilling life. These steps together create a powerful framework for moving forward with confidence and authenticity.

Kathryne’s upcoming book, Soulful Divorcée, set to release in 2025, dives into her personal journey of reinvention and provides inspiration and tools for others facing similar challenges. She also creates empowering events like The Soulful Divorcée live event, offering community, expert guidance, and practical tools for growth.

If you would like to learn more about Kathryne Mejias and Born For More, please keep an eye out for her upcoming book, The Soulful Divorcée: A Journey to Self-Discovery, Freedom, and True Alignment, releasing in 2025, and her live event, The Soulful Divorcée, happening on March 29th, 2025, in Toronto.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

There it was, my shiny new Mustang that I had just purchased, much to everyone’s envy. I had recently graduated college and had happily begun my first office job in the heart of downtown Sacramento, California. I had driven the car to work, and parked in our company’s parking lot just as I did every day, except today I had a brand new car! I walked out, exhausted from the day’s work, and was shocked to see that someone had keyed the car all the way down the driver’s side. It was a passionate keying too, someone put a lot of bitterness into it.

This could have been a random occurrence, or it could have been executed by one of the catty women in my office. Sometimes people can just be vicious because they are jealous. At the time, we didn’t have social media, so I didn’t experience the types of bullying that social media can sometimes facilitate, but I definitely had some anger aimed at me from behind cubicle walls. These days, people tend to hide behind their keyboards.

I recently had the privilege of interviewing Marina Nestel, Founder and CEO of The Little Black Book, one of South Africa’s leading PR and events companies. Her client list features high-profile brands and personalities, including H&M, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, One & Only Hotel, Richard Branson, Sol Kerzner, Chivas Regal, Cartier, and many others. The Little Black Book specializes in luxury brand activations, high-profile events, and cause-driven campaigns that continue to shape the PR industry in South Africa. Marina is known as the Queen of PR with a big heart.

I’ve learned that even people with the biggest of hearts can face the wrath of the green-eyed monster.

Marina worked her way up from a waitress, cocktail bartender, and hostess in five star hotels in London, to interning for the esteemed global PR company Purple PR. She then moved back to Cape Town, South Africa and worked for Dunhill at British American Tobacco. The high end circles she moved in allowed her to build her network and she decided to start her own company, The Little Black Book.

She began The Little Black Book in her home out of the back of the laundry room with no support, in fact being told frequently to “get a proper job”. She proved the naysayers wrong as the business exploded in less than a year, becoming an internationally renowned events and public relations agency. She not only reached success with a long list of career highlights, but she did so as a working mother of a newborn baby.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing though. After her marriage collapsed and a series of unfortunate events, Marina was separated from her child and subjected to many humiliating rules and regulations policing even phone calls with her son. Then the social media smear campaign began.

In a very well-coordinated series of attacks, Marina was deemed a prostitute, drug addict, and everything under the sun except an alcoholic. Marina admits very openly that she is a recovering alcoholic and works to bring awareness for people who struggle with addiction.

Thus began Marina’s parental alienation nightmare. Parental alienation is when one parent intentionally seeks to damage a child’s relationship with the other parent. This can be done in a number of ways including creating a negative narrative about the other parent, discouraging the child from spending time with that parent, making that time uncomfortable, and in more extreme cases, encouraging the child to stop contacting the other parent. The child is psychologically affected during this experience and often into their adult lives. Marina has no contact with her son now, but she still attempts to send him photos and videos and she calls him regularly, to no avail. She explains that she will never stop trying to connect with her only child.

As a PR entrepreneur, Marina understands that she is sitting on a life story which needs to be heard. She’s a survivor, she’s resilient and she is an inspiration to victims of parental alienation and cyber bullying around the world. She would like to make people aware about the various trials and tribulations she has been subjected to, including vexatious litigation. Vexatious litigation is meant to bother, embarrass, and/or cause legal expenses to the defendant.

Though the cyber bullying, harassment, and slander still goes on, Marina managed to leave South Africa where she had been tormented for so long. Marina has since swapped her work look of stilettos and couture dresses for a bikini. She swims in a warm ocean on a tropical island all day. She eats in gourmet restaurants and relaxing in a hammock is a regular occupation. Her “happily ever after” is with her fiancé and her career as a human rights public speaker for parental alienation and cyber bullying, as well as running her global PR and events business all from a blissful, peaceful paradise in Thailand. To her trolls and haters she has an attitude of “in the bin you go with the rest of the rubbish”, and she keeps moving forward.

As a wise friend once told me, the best revenge is living well. Marina Nestel embodies this phrase.

If you would like to learn more about Marina Nestel and The Little Black Book, please visit thelittleblackbook.co.za.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

Our family friend’s eyes narrowed as he peered over to see what I was reading in the back seat of the car. The look of shock when he realized was priceless. I was in the third grade, and the book was The Shining by Stephen King. My parents looked on proudly as they realized that their child loved reading. At a very young age, I had graduated from Harry the Dirty Dog and Rotten Ralph to full length novels, and horror was definitely my thing. It began in the third grade with the first novel I read, The Amityville Horror. I was that kid who would take great joy in huddling in a dark closet with my friends and telling them scary stories that I had concocted myself. I was the one who would leave everyone at the family gatherings with nightmares of my tales. I loved horror movies, scary books, all things ghostly, and haunted houses.

Being as enamored as I am still, to this day, with all things spooky, I was thrilled to find out about BloodManor, New York City’s premier haunted attraction. BloodManor is a first-class haunted house attraction with approximately 10,000 square feet of themed rooms, corridors, and a labyrinth of passageways. BloodManor is designed to be the most intense, creepy, and scream-inducing haunted house attraction in New York State.

The building at 359 Broadway in the Tribeca area of New York City, known as BloodManor, has quite a spooky history. Built in 1852, it was used by photographer Matthew Brady to photograph some of America’s most famous, and infamous, people. President Abraham Lincoln was among some of the famous people photographed in the building. During the Civil War, Brady was scorned for adopting a mobile studio to capture some of the world’s most graphic images of battle. The public criticized him for “making a buck” off of the daily tragedies that were ravaging the country. For all the criticism he received, he was documenting and capturing the souls of all of the men who were fighting for their country.

When Brady returned to his studio at 359 Broadway, he noticed something interesting in every photo that had been developed within the rooms of the third floor. In the photographs, the men’s faces appeared to be melting, strange apparitions floated above each soldier in the fields, and those men who were closer to the lens had black eyes.

In 1859, Brady closed his studio due to the “incessant screams of the photographed men”. It is said that if one travels the halls of the third floor throughout the night, you will hear the faint sounds of the camera taking a photograph followed by the screams of the men in the final moments of their lives.

After Brady, much was unknown about the tenants of the building up until 1943, when two brothers along with their brother-in-law and his brother purchased and operated a textile wholesale business at 359 Broadway. The business flourished and continued through the early 1970s, but in 1958 a huge fire at a nearby building ruined many lives in the area forever. One young firefighter named Wilson Palmer saved over a dozen women and children during that horrible night, but his own life could not be saved in the end. In the days following the fire, Wilson took to taking nightly walks around the neighborhood. After a few weeks of these evening strolls, Wilson complained of hearing horrible screams coming from the textile factory at 359 Broadway. He would swear there were young men dying in there, yet everything was dark and there wasn’t a soul in sight.

Approximately twenty four days after the fire that he fought so heroically, Wilson hung himself from the rafters in the firehouse. In his hands he had clenched a five dollar bill, with Abraham Lincoln’s eyes blacked out and written in calligraphy found only in letters written with a feather dip pen in the early 19th century, were the words “NO PHOTOS”.

The third creepy story that is known about the building at 359 Broadway involves Brooklyn mob boss “Crazy” Joe Gallo. Gallo was killed at Umberto’s Clam Bar in 1972 by someone connected to the Colombo family. The driver of the car that night, a man by the name of Luparelli, ended up going to the FBI claiming that he was being followed by loud screams and woken by them in the night. It was discovered that Luparelli and his family were former tenants of the building at 359 Broadway.

In current times, the events of 2020 and the sadness, loneliness, isolation, and loss that was caused has seemingly incited more activity throughout the halls of BloodManor. Many local residents have come to the BloodManor staff with strange stories from the past couple of months. Some claim they see flashing lights from the third floor of the building – flashing lights similar to that of an old camera. Others claim they hear gunshots coming from within the building, and there are also stories of seeing shadows of men with tall top hats passing through the windows illuminated by the street lamps outside. All of this activity serves to heighten the excitement of BloodManor’s 21st anniversary Halloween season. Beginning in September, BloodManor opened its doors to the public and promises the scariest season they have ever had.

This year, BloodManor boasts the addition of three new rooms and brand new costumes. The Manor is open every weekend and some weekdays beginning in September and running through November. I know my inner horror-aholic would love to go!

For more information about BloodManor, please visit www.bloodmanor.com.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

Something grey and covered in whiskers was peeking out of the water.  A large grey body surfaced as the large nostrils of the creature sucked in air.

“What is that?” My friend shrieked, looking down into the canal.  I was flabbergasted; this friend of mine had lived in Florida for most of his life and yet he had never seen a manatee!

“Do they bite?” He was fascinated by this large creature and I proceeded to teach him about manatees.

It dawned on me that some people who live right on the outskirts of wild areas and wildlife never get to see it, or experience it.  These people, once they learn about the wildlife surrounding them, care more about preserving it.  It’s just a natural result of being exposed to nature and learning about it.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing a man who knows a lot about this phenomenon.  Fabian Mdluli is a wildlife photographer and filmmaker. He recently completed Lauren Arthur and David Eastaugh’s specialized, immersive wildlife filmmaking course that was launched in August 2024. The course covers not only wildlife filmmaking, but also gives students a complete immersion into the African wild. There is a module on animal behavior, ecology, phenomenology and ethics of wildlife filmmaking presented by Lauren. The course introduces the students to the field of impact producing with a guest speaker and helps guide the students in their efforts to combine storytelling with social and behavioral science to drive positive change. Their expert tracker takes students into the bush on foot and teaches them the basic tracks and signs and how to read the environment around them for more immersive filmmaking. David teaches the students to understand how to use the equipment, build specialized wildlife filming rigs, filming techniques and also how to work with human talent. There is also an extensive module on post-production, including how to shoot for the edit and how to manage one’s media.

Fabian met Lauren Arthur and David Eastaugh through Wildshots. They recognized his passion for wildlife and recommended him as a candidate for the Too Wild filming course, which he was thrilled to join.

Fabian, a twenty-three year old man from Acornhoek in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, thrived in the intensive four week course given in the Timbavati Game Reserve with Too Wild and is now well on his way to achieving his dream of becoming a wildlife filmmaker. He describes the filmmaking course as transformative, explaining that he learned practical skills like camera work, editing, and storytelling. It boosted his confidence and allowed him to connect with other aspiring filmmakers.

Fabian has been a part of WildShots Outreach since 2022 and has a background in stills, but with his new skills, he now plans to create a documentary focusing on wildlife conservation to raise awareness. He explained that even though he grew up in a small village in Acornhoek, surrounded by beautiful nature and game reserves, he never had a chance to experience the wildlife firsthand. This is not uncommon, as my interview with David Eastaugh revealed. David previously explained to me that the communities living on the other side of the fence of the game reserves are very separate and removed from what is going on inside. Many of the people haven’t even seen an elephant. David believes this needs to change and is a crucial link moving forward in South Africa. Enter Too Wild’s wildlife film school in the Timbavati Game Reserve with its community-driven focus to fully sponsor a local candidate from one of the communities on the periphery of the reserve to complete the course and become qualified as a wildlife filmmaker. The initiative is supported by the Timbavati Foundation, WildShots and RuggedWear and it is crucial to build the next generation of wildlife filmmakers, like Fabian.

Fabian shares these beliefs and is in fact a perfect example of the initiative’s success. He hopes for increased conservation efforts and community involvement to help protect wildlife. He, like David and Lauren, believes education and awareness can lead to better protection for habitats and species. He knows firsthand how many people in South Africa lack access to wildlife parks and believes it is important to provide opportunities for local communities to experience nature. He knows that when people connect with wildlife and understand it, as well as ecosystems, they are more likely to care about protecting it. We all have a role to play in preserving our planet, and conservation education is key.

If you would like to learn more about Fabian Mdluli and Too Wild, please visit toowild.co. You can also find Fabian on Instagram @fabianmdluli.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

Isn’t it strange how today the entire world seems to be turned upside down? For instance, just looking at politics alone, the Republican party used to be considered the party of the rich. Now it is the Democrat party who are most of the billionaires and the Hollywood elite. I remember, having finished high school and college in California, that the people there were the creative free thinkers, whether in the tech world or artistic world, they believed in freedom. Nowadays the tech world is censoring free speech and the others are saying that you must be masked perpetually. As I’ve written before, after the events of September 11th, I had friends who questioned that it even happened. Their theory was that it was a Hollywood-orchestrated event created to somehow benefit President George Bush. Maybe it was because they were asleep still when the event occurred. I wasn’t.

I was living in the Washington, D.C. area and saw it with my own eyes. I had moved myself there from California, hence all the later California feedback I received. I had people who I once respected tell me that they believed the planes crashing into the World Trade Center Twin Towers were all a Hollywood-style production, that the then-President Bush had orchestrated it for his own gain. And, perhaps even worse, I had some people (also in California) tell me that the people working in the Twin Towers deserved to die. They said they were so rich that they deserved to be killed. My response was always that those people there at that time in the morning were likely not the wealthy, but the actual workers, the secretarial types, the administrative assistants, the clerical workers – not the rich boss who was out golfing that day.

But there was no reasoning with these people, they insisted that this was how it was.

I could tell them I saw a plane fly over where I happened to be driving that morning and then seeing the ensuing smoke cloud on the horizon as the plane crashed into the Pentagon. I could tell them how upon realizing what had happened, I immediately thought of my family in California and how they could be next. I wanted to warn them, but guess what happens in a real emergency? The phone system goes down.

I watched in the days that followed how people in the D.C. area seemed to have gotten nicer, at least in some ways. People actually allowed you to merge in traffic without waving a middle finger or honking, and people really seemed to be coming together. That didn’t last long, but I did see it.

These days, those people who were telling me that the terrorist attacks of September 11th were a Hollywood scam, are the same people who insist that wearing a mask must be required at all times. These same people insist that all Americans should be forced to take an untested vaccine. These same people do not acknowledge the harm THEY caused for a whole generation of kids who now are way behind in important skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, not to mention the social issues it has caused them and will continue to cause them for their entire lives. And, these same people are all Democrats. They detest the wealthy, yet they adore people like Bernie Sanders, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Nancy Pelosi. All of these people are very wealthy, at least millionaires, if not billionaires in some cases. I have worked for the United States government. My whole family was U.S. government, even my grandfather. They were born and raised in Washington, D.C.
The thing is, you do not get rich working for the government. Senators and representatives work for the U.S. government. You don’t spend fifty years as a senator and become a billionaire, without an outside successful business, unless you are corrupt.
The Republican party by and large is now the party of the worker, the do-er, the person who is actually out there working – and the “elite” Democrat rich person needs them to perform necessary services for them.

On September 11th, 2024, let’s remember the lives lost and what our country, the United States of America, actually stands for. It stands for freedom. Most of America is not like California, but it is gradually becoming like California as their horrible policies are spread across the nation. We don’t have to agree with each other on everything, but let’s stop being hysterical and nonsensical about everything.

Above all else, let’s strive to remember, instead of numbing our brains with drugs to escape reality. Let’s learn about history instead of trying to avoid it because it might be upsetting. Children should learn about September 11th in school. The videos of what happened that day should be played.

Let’s work to make the reality better for everyone, not just the super rich of the world. Let’s not look to the government to solve our problems – I can tell you from working there, that is the LAST place you want to be dependent on.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.

I remember it vividly, I had written a story about ants and their world, not unlike the later movies Antz and A Bug’s Life, but written from an eight-year-old’s mind. The story won an award, and my love of writing was born. It was here I would flourish throughout my school years, reading and writing, earning many awards and commendations and eventually a spot at the University of California, Davis. As I got older, my creativity tended to get squashed under the mundane tasks of life and working in imagination-sucking offices. I was finally able to free myself from the smothering lifestyle I had become accustomed to, but never enjoyed. I was able to become a writer. It’s the only job I’ve ever loved.

I am always thrilled to meet fellow writers and authors, and I recently had the opportunity to interview children’s book author and illustrator, KJ Kaschula. KJ was born in Gauteng, South Africa, in the city of Boksburg. By high school, her family moved to a small town in the Vaal Triangle where she grew up and went to university. Driven by the need to create a story, she ended up studying the art of filmmaking and earned her degree in it. She longed to travel and ended up initially going to Chiang Mai, Thailand, to study teaching English, but returned home soon afterward to take care of her family. Not done with the travel bug, she then went to Paris, France, where she worked part-time as an au pair and spent the rest of her time creating stories. Her lifestyle soon became traveling from Gauteng to Paris and back. She learned to cook, fell in love, hiked and wrote and illustrated children’s books.

KJ published her first children’s book in 2021, titled I Caught One of Santa’s Reindeer, the first book in The-Super-Dooper-Secret-Collection, followed by I Captured the Easter Bunny’s Chicken and I Discovered a Monster Under My Bed. KJ discovered the world of hybrid publishing and joined the Brave Healer Productions publishing team, helping to birth the children’s book publishing imprint Brave Kids Books.

Brave Healer Productions is an award-winning collaborative publishing company that helps healers publish their stories of health and wellness, business, or kid’s books through its imprint Brave Kids Books. There are currently two volumes of the Brave Kids books, with a third volume coming out in June 2025. Brave Kids is a collection of short stories written by authors from around the world. Each story is uniquely crafted to inspire hope and change for a better world for humans, animals, and the Earth. Within these powerful stories, kids will find the tools, wisdom, and relatability they need to learn, grow, and become the best version of themselves. There are also Brave Kids activities that work alongside the short stories, like coloring and drawing activities that link up to the book, searches for hidden items that link up with the books, writing your own brave story, and writing a postcard to a Brave Kids author. KJ really hopes to get interest from schools and teachers around the world, and she would love to visit schools, either virtual or in-person, to get kids excited about reading and discovering adventures within their own minds.

Along those lines, I asked KJ if she has any tips for parents or teachers who are trying to get their kids interested in reading and writing. She responded that reading should always be for pleasure; whenever it is negatively forced, it will most likely be met with resistance at any age. So, to create positive reinforcements she has observed that sitting down with your kids before bedtime and bonding over a really good story creates a special moment that wants to be relived well into adulthood. It creates conversation and understanding around topics and makes you believe in the magic of being alive and experiencing such wonderful adventures and characters. She says to remember to make it fun. Changing your voice to suit different characters is great for you to let go and for your kids to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Another tip she has is to find out what your kid’s best friend is reading at home with their parents. We all want to read what our friends are reading so that we can talk about it later and compare our thought notes. She said she remembers when Harry Potter came out, one of the reasons she picked up the book was because “everyone” was reading it and she wanted to know what it was all about.

She explained that writing is another story. What works for her is when she gets really excited about a topic she chooses to write about. Once she chooses a topic, she says research is the key to unlocking the story because an informed mind can write and explore different avenues of ideas. Research does not just have to be “googling”, it can also be journaling your thoughts around a topic.

KJ has, in the past, gotten ideas and inspiration from the kids she took care of as an au pair. In particular, “Tonight is the Night”, Chapter One in Brave Kids, Volume 1, was inspired by one of the kids she looked over who did not want to sleep alone in their bedroom in the dark. At the time, she suggested that they close their eyes and imagine that their favorite animal (a cheetah) was made up of white, white light and that this animal made of the purest of lights would protect them and keep them safe, and that whenever they were scared, all they had to do was imagine that it was there, with them. She explained that other times the ideas that turn into the stories within her books can come from anywhere: a title can pop into her head, as is the case with I Caught One of Santa’s Reindeer, or they can be influenced by real happenings or occurrences—in this instance she would take a small piece of information and mold a story around it. A lot of the time, when she gets an idea, she does extensive research on a topic and allows the research to guide the story’s spark.

And what about the dreaded writer’s block? KJ believes that it always stems from procrastination and the best way out of it is research; with pen, paper and doodles to guide her way.

Poking around on KJ’s website inspired me to learn more about her books and all of the kids’ activities she offers. The following is what she shared with me:

What general age or grade range are your books?

Six to ten if you really want to get specific/generalize. The Brave Kids Books can go up to twelve years of age.

The age range is broad because I imagine parents sitting down with their kids just before bed and reading to them the fun adventures of Little Lizzie or a short ten minute story from Brave Kids. Or if their kids are older, nine plus, and they are feeling independent, then they can read it by themselves.

What inspires you most to write, what keeps you going?

I have always wanted to write ever since I was a little girl. I would constantly play with ideas—write them down, or even act them out. During difficult times, I have found that writing or being creative is what gives me air and allows me to breathe.

What keeps me going?

Well, this depends on where I am in my life’s journey. When I wrote, I Caught One of Santa’s Reindeer, there was a burning need within me to produce something concrete, to actually write and publish something that I could hold in my hands. With I Captured the Easter Bunny’s Chicken, I needed a push from my partner—my support system to get it done and just keep going. Brave Kids always comes down to a deadline-driven project, and I Discovered a Monster Under My Bed; this took a bit of everything, but mostly I needed to write and create this one for me and enjoy the process to its complete fullest.

You also illustrate your books. Did you have formal training to become an illustrator?

No, I actually haven’t had any formal training. Of course, I did some art in primary and high school, but that is about it. I have been drawing since I can remember, since someone put a coloring pencil in my hand.

What are the Secret Keepers?

The Secret Keepers are anyone who would like to follow me, and my journey as a children’s book author and illustrator. Once they sign up, they will get exclusive super-dooper-secret content, hear any and all news first, and get invited to be part of book deals, competitions, fun activities and more!

The Secret Keepers, stem from my first published children’s book series: The-Super-Dooper-Secret-Collection.

Tell me about the Easter Bunny’s chicken?

The Easter Bunny’s chicken or EBC is a character within I Captured the Easter Bunny’s Chicken, the second published book but the third book within the The-Super-Dooper-Secret-Collection.

The story follows Little Lizzie as she plans to capture the EBC so that she can have an endless supply of Easter eggs. She knows through the story told to her by Mr. M that there are many Easter egg deliveries around the world, so she figures the best Easter egg deliverer she could capture wouldn’t be the Easter Bunny, but it’s Chicken, who also delivers Easter eggs around Easter time. Through her Easter-time adventure, she discovers that sharing is caring, and that kindness matters the most.

Tell me about Little Lizzie? Is she based on someone you know or yourself?

Little Lizzie is a magical children’s character who almost sprung to life out of thin air. I like to tell people that it was she who whispered the title of her first book in my ear when I first began, which is partly true—the title I Caught One of Santa’s Reindeer, just popped into my head, and I immediately wrote it down so I wouldn’t forget it. She is not based on anyone; however, she does draw upon some elements within my own life. Her name and eye color, for instance, is courtesy of my mom, known as Liz. Little Lizzie also likes to draw, as do I, and she does not like others calling her by her full name—a small trait taken from myself.

What are some of the Monster activities coming soon and when can we expect to see them?

The Monster Activities are similar to their sister activities in I Caught One of Santa’s Reindeers and I Captured the Easter Bunny’s Chicken, and they will be arriving in October 2024 ready for some Halloween fun!

You split your time between South Africa and France. How is that? Tell me some things you love about France and also some things you love about South Africa.

In the past, I split my time between South Africa and France because I was an au pair. I would go to France and take care of my au pair family and then return home.

Today, I split my time between these two wonderful countries because I fell in love with my French man, and he, along with his country, stole my heart. I am also very fortunate that because I work in publishing, I can work remotely anywhere.

What I love about France: Great food, wine, culture, and language, and I get to walk everywhere. There are terraces to enjoy coffee with friends and parks to hike in.

What I love about South Africa: It is my first home and where my family and doggo’s are. It is sunshine and warmth almost all year around, it is my heritage and is part of who I am.

How do you find the time to write and do all of your creative activities?

Honestly, I have to make time for it. It’s a lot of late nights, early mornings, and weekends, with a dash of perseverance and determination. Remembering the big why is key, and having a support system nearby or on the phone helps give me a little push.

Is there something you want to talk about, it can be anything? Feel free to highlight anything you would like.

Yes, I would like to talk about my new book, I Discovered a Monster Under My Bed, which was just released.

This book I am extremely proud of and has challenged me in many ways. It is the third published book in The-Super-Dooper-Secret-Collection (although it is book 2 in the series).

I Discovered a Monster Under My Bed, is a great book for this Halloween. Gift it to a kiddo and get them excited about discovery, not only who the monster under the bed is but also the world which lies under, it’s just waiting to be explored. It deals with themes such as bravery and courage, friendship, and kindness, as well as rediscovering the joy of reading.

Also, if anyone would like to follow me they can by signing up to the Secret Keepers at: https://www.kjkaschula.com/home/send-a-message/join-the-secret-keepers/ and follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/kj.kaschula

If you would like to learn more about KJ Kaschula and her books, please visit www.kjkaschula.com.

This article was originally published on OpsLens.com.