Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Thane and Cynthia Murphy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Thane and Cynthia, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
Self-Care: A Pillar of Our Success
In the midst of our bustling entrepreneurial and activist endeavors, we have discovered the tranquility that self-care brings. For us, self-care encompasses embracing the restorative power of nutrition and holistic practices. It involves dedicating time to activities that not only rejuvenate our spirit but also strengthen the impact of our message. This steadfast commitment to nurturing ourselves has profoundly increased our effectiveness, infusing our mission with greater clarity and focus.
We invested significantly in a $2,000 juicer, a tool I use regularly to ensure that I am well-fueled to juggle my numerous responsibilities. These include managing various entrepreneurial endeavors, completing my doctoral studies, and stepping into my new role as a Business Development Specialist.
As we continue to nurture the entrepreneurial ventures we’ve built, I’ve decided to secure a stable full-time job. Allocating a portion of my income from this role enables us to sustain our side hustles. Cultivating multiple revenue streams is crucial for any entrepreneur. For us, this will provide the stability and support we need to thrive, survive, and continue our passionate work with our non-profit venture, which holds a special place in our hearts.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As I take a moment to reflect on our journey, it’s almost surreal to think about how far we’ve come, not just in terms of our businesses but as individuals and as a couple. My name is Cynthia Murphy, and today I’d like to share our story, a tale of resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and unyielding determination to make a difference.
The Beginnings: Finding Our Purpose
Our story is unique, a tapestry woven from threads of adversity, courage, and a relentless drive to overcome. My husband, Thane, a resilient disabled USMC veteran, faced the grim realities of PTSD and a traumatic brain injury, compounded by a lifelong battle with severe skin rashes and obesity.
As for myself, I’ve navigated the turbulent waters of life with a craniofacial disability, Treacher Collins Syndrome having endured over 16+ reconstructive plastic surgeries to date.
From Trials to Triumph: Our Educational Pursuits
Our journeys, filled with challenges, eventually led us down the path of education. Thane, defying the odds, graduated Summa Cum Laude, specializing in Nutrition and Holistic Medicine. His journey to recovery and self-discovery began with a profound realization: the healing power of diet and nutrition. His transformation is nothing short of inspiring, finding solace and healing in the power of diet and nutrition.
I, on the other hand, faced rejection and societal pressure head-on. After dropping out of high school and college, I decided to rewrite my story. I earned my degrees and am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Business Administration at Capella University.
As a Top Voice influencer on LinkedIn, I leverage social media not just as a networking tool, but as a powerful platform for uncovering opportunities for growth and development. I am incredibly grateful to have been awarded over $40,000 in scholarships from Capella University, and most recently, I am honored to be a recipient of the Trust and Safety Scholarship from Cognizant Technologies.
Assuaged: Turning Adversity into Opportunity
Our combined experiences and passion for health and wellness gave birth to Assuaged, initially a mobile iOS app with our digital parter Creative27, eventually transforming into a 501(c)(3) non-profit Assuaged Foundation. Our mission? To empower marginalized college students, integrating affluent mentors and military veterans to create digitally proficient leaders.
Recently, we introduced a new division within our non-profit organization, Assuaged Marketing, with the aim of providing students with paid internship opportunities. By engaging in diverse marketing projects, we are utilizing our charitable non-profit status not only to offer invaluable work experience but also to generate funding to support these positions. We aim to contribute to the digital future of the health and wellness industry, making education accessible and inspiring the next generation.
The Entrepreneurial Journey: Overcoming and Growing
Managing not just one, but two businesses on a single disability income truly put our resilience and commitment to the test. We mastered the art of budgeting, choosing to invest in our future rather than indulging in life’s temporary pleasures. Rather than splurging on luxuries and entertainment, we strategically allocated our resources to essential services like Google and LinkedIn, ensuring the steady growth of our ventures.
Recently, our hearts swelled with joy as we welcomed our baby girl, Novalee Rose, into the world. Miraculously, she was born free from the disabilities associated with my Treacher Collins Syndrome. Throughout the pregnancy, I found support in the CBD products from our subsidiary, Be Your Highest, particularly our uniquely formulated organic vegan oral sprays. Thane, leveraging his deep knowledge in nutrition, played an indispensable role in safeguarding both my health and Novalee’s wellbeing during this crucial time, guiding us through this journey with expertise and attentive care. You can catch glimpses of our involvement in vendor trade shows where we proudly represent our Be Your Highest products, as well as on various TikTok videos where we share our entrepreneurial journey and products.
The joy in our household has been immeasurable since Novalee Rose came into our lives, marking a new chapter for Thane, who has been given a second chance at fatherhood. His past was marked with heartbreak when, after attending Boot Camp for the USMC and returning home to Victoria, British Columbia, he discovered his ex-partner with another man and his two children taken away. Despite winning numerous court battles, the court orders were not enforced, and he tragically lost contact with his children, primarily due to the mother’s false allegations of abandonment. It was only recently that his son, now 20 years old, discovered the truth about his biological father, unaware of his existence for so many years.
This new beginning with Novalee has not just brought light to our lives, but it has also given Thane the opportunity to embrace fatherhood once again, with a sense of purpose and gratitude. Our family’s resilience shines through, proving that despite the trials and tribulations of the past, there is always room for love, healing, and new beginnings.
The Impact: Fostering Change and Empowering Others
Standing here today, I embrace my identity as a proud woman, entrepreneur, and disability activist, filled with a profound sense of accomplishment. We have not only built successful businesses but also cultivated essential qualities and habits that define our entrepreneurial journey.
In addition to these pursuits, I have had the honor of representing disability on prestigious fashion runways, embodying grace and confidence in my role as a model. My presence on the runway was amplified by the exceptional skills of renowned celebrity makeup artists Jacky Tai and Waatani Norris, who meticulously styled my makeup and hair. Their expertise played a crucial role in my appearances at numerous celebrity charity events hosted by Kiss the Monkeys, allowing me to shine and advocate for disability representation in the fashion industry. I have chronicled my experiences in several publications for The Mighty.
Our journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience, highlighting the crucial role of self-care and the transformative ability to turn adversity into opportunity. As we forge ahead, our commitment to our mission is unwavering, our inspiration drawn from the journey we’ve undertaken, and our gratitude deep for the invaluable lessons learned along the way. We consider ourselves fortunate to have crossed paths with, and shared meaningful experiences with, incredible celebrities such as Randy Jackson, Colin Farrell, and Mario Lopez during our networking at the City Summit City Gala events
The Future: A Vision of Empowerment and Growth
Looking ahead, the future is bright. With our businesses flourishing and our personal growth on an upward trajectory, we are poised to make an even greater impact. We will continue to champion the cause of health and wellness, empower the next generation of student leaders, and showcase that with resilience, determination, and a heart full of passion, anything is possible.
This is our story, a journey of transformation, empowerment, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. We are proud to share our tale of entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and the power of belief.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on our journey, three pivotal qualities and areas of knowledge stand out as having had the most significant impact:
1. Resilience: Our path has been fraught with challenges, Cynthia, from personal health issues associated with Treacher Collins Syndrome to the emotional turmoil Thane experienced due to the separation from his children. Cultivating resilience enabled us to persevere through these hardships and transform adversity into strength. For those early in their journey, building resilience can start with adopting a positive mindset, focusing on solutions rather than problems, and seeking support when needed. Resilience is like a muscle that strengthens with practice, so embracing challenges as opportunities for growth can foster this vital quality.
2. Nutrition and Holistic Practices: Thane’s extensive knowledge in nutrition played a critical role in ensuring both my health during pregnancy and the well-being of our baby girl, Novalee Rose. Incorporating holistic practices into our routine also provided a sanctuary of calm amidst the demands of entrepreneurship and activism. For individuals at the onset of their journey, investing time in learning about nutrition and holistic health can pay dividends in long-term well-being. Start small, make sustainable changes to your diet, and explore various holistic practices to discover what resonates with you.
3. Networking and Social Media Utilization: As a LinkedIn Top Voice influencer, leveraging social media for networking opened doors to opportunities and growth, resulting in scholarships and professional advancements. Building a strong network and establishing a robust online presence can accelerate your journey, providing access to resources, mentors, and opportunities. For those starting out, focus on building authentic connections, share your story and insights, and engage actively within your network. Remember, quality trumps quantity when it comes to connections, so nurture your relationships and provide value to your network.
Advice for Early Journey Individuals:
1. Cultivate Resilience: Embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Practice mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques to maintain your mental health. Don’t be afraid to seek support from friends, family, or professionals.
2. Invest in Health and Wellbeing: Prioritize your physical and mental health. Educate yourself on nutrition and holistic practices, and find a routine that works for you. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s essential.
3. Leverage Networking and Social Media: Be proactive in building your professional network both online and offline. Share your journey, learn from others, and don’t be afraid to reach out for advice or mentorship. Consistency and authenticity in your online presence can significantly enhance your personal brand and open up new avenues for growth.
By focusing on these areas, individuals can lay a strong foundation for success, turning challenges into opportunities, and paving the way for a fulfilling and impactful journey.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
Dale Carnegie’s works, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” and “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living,” have been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional development. Their principles align seamlessly with our journey, providing guidance and insights that have helped us navigate through various challenges and opportunities.
“How to Win Friends and Influence People”
This book laid the groundwork for effective communication and relationship-building, crucial skills in both entrepreneurship and disability activism.
1. Understanding and Appreciating Others:
Dale Carnegie highlights the significance of sincerely connecting with people and respecting their viewpoints in his teachings. This philosophy has been instrumental in our journey, especially in fostering robust relationships and creating genuine connections. Our engagement in the LinkedIn community has been immensely fruitful, with my role as a Top Voice influencer thriving thanks to our commitment to authentic interaction.
Incorporating this approach into our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which focuses on empowering students through digital skills training and job placement, has further solidified its effectiveness. By showing a deep interest in the students’ growth and acknowledging their unique perspectives, we’ve cultivated an environment that not only facilitates learning but also encourages open communication and mutual respect.
Our dedication to understanding and appreciating each individual’s journey has enabled us to tailor our programs to better suit their needs, resulting in more impactful and lasting outcomes. These meaningful connections extend beyond the digital realm, fostering a community of support and encouragement that is crucial for both personal and professional development.
By integrating Carnegie’s principles into the fabric of our non-profit, we’ve created a space where students feel valued and understood, directly contributing to their success in acquiring digital skills and securing employment. This, in turn, strengthens our network and solidifies our reputation as a reliable and compassionate organization, dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
2. The Power of Positive Reinforcement:
Dale Carnegie’s principle of nurturing and affirming the positive qualities in others played a vital role, not just in our personal lives, but also in our efforts through our non-profit to assist students. We applied this positive reinforcement approach in our educational programs, acknowledging and celebrating the unique strengths and potentials of each student we served. By creating an environment that highlighted their abilities rather than focusing on their limitations, we were able to boost their confidence and motivation. This, in turn, facilitated a positive learning experience, enabling them to overcome challenges and excel in their pursuits. This principle proved crucial, especially when working with students who might have faced discouragement or adversity in their lives.
3. Handling Disputes Tactfully:
Handling Disputes Tactfully:
In our non-profit’s journey, the strategies outlined in Dale Carnegie’s book for managing disagreements and disputes have proven invaluable, teaching us the importance of sidestepping direct confrontation and seeking common ground instead.
Early in 2023, our non-profit faced one of its toughest challenges yet: a security breach orchestrated by a group of disgruntled former students aiming to tarnish our reputation. Their intentions were malicious, seeking not just to discredit us, but to completely dismantle the positive impact we had cultivated. This situation tested our resilience like never before, causing immense emotional strain.
However, drawing upon the wisdom from Carnegie’s teachings, we chose to handle the situation with grace and poise. Instead of retaliating or succumbing to the pressure, we took decisive action to remove these individuals from our mission, ensuring they could no longer cause harm to our community. Furthermore, we took this as an opportunity to bolster our security processes, implementing stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
This experience, while painful, underscored the importance of handling disputes tactfully and reaffirmed our commitment to maintaining a positive and safe environment for all those involved in our mission. It taught us that even in the face of adversity, staying true to our values and handling challenges with dignity can lead to a stronger and more resilient organization.
“How to Stop Worrying and Start Living”
This book offered valuable strategies for managing stress and cultivating a positive mindset, essential for entrepreneurship and life in general.
1. Living in ‘Day-tight Compartments’:
Carnegie introduces the concept of living in the present, a philosophy that helped us maintain focus and balance amidst the entrepreneurial hustle and personal challenges. Embracing each day as a standalone journey enabled us to channel our energies more effectively, enhancing our productivity and well-being.
2. The Art of Rest and Relaxation:
The emphasis on rest and relaxation in the book echoes our commitment to self-care and holistic practices. Integrating these elements into our routine provided a sanctuary of calm, crucial for sustaining our entrepreneurial and activist efforts.
3. Transforming Worry into Action:
Carnegie teaches the importance of transforming worry into constructive action, a lesson vital for our journey. Instead of succumbing to worries about potential disabilities associated with Novalee Rose or the anxieties of running multiple ventures, we channeled our energies into proactive measures, ensuring the health of our family and the success of our businesses.
In summary, Dale Carnegie’s books have offered timeless wisdom that resonates deeply with our story. They provided strategies for building meaningful relationships, maintaining a positive mindset, and managing stress – all of which were pivotal in navigating our unique journey and turning challenges into opportunities for growth and impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.assuaged.com | https://assuagedmarketing.com | https://www.beyourhighest.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AngelicJuicer | https://www.instagram.com/assuagedapp/ | https://www.instagram.com/beyourhighest
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelicJuicer/ | https://www.facebook.com/ThaneSMurphy | https://www.facebook.com/BeYourHighest | http://www.facebook.com/AssuagedApp
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-cherise | https://www.linkedin.com/in/thane-murphy-assuaged | https://www.linkedin.com/company/assuaged | https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyourhighest
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AngelicJuicer | http://www.twitter.com/AssuagedApp | https://twitter.com/BeYourHighest
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Assuaged
- Other: https://cynthiacherise.myportfolio.com
