Sharon Burstein is an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and passionate entrepreneur who has dedicated her life to empowering people of all ages to find their voice and live boldly.

From the moment she discovered her love for entrepreneurship as just a young girl, Sharon has continually pursued success on her own terms—despite external doubts, unexpected setbacks, and societal barriers.

Growing up, Sharon yearned for possibility and adventure. She found herself at odds with a family that preferred to “sit on the sidelines,” yet her vibrant spirit urged her to take big leaps.

This determination fueled her first business venture at age 10 - selling handcrafted potholders door to door. Without realizing it at the time, she was already honing essential skills in sales, marketing, and customer service that would later become the bedrock of her impressive career.

Despite being told she could not afford college, Sharon doggedly fought to finance her own education. With relentless ambition and creativity, she earned scholarships, took on extra jobs, and ultimately graduated at the top of her class.

From there, she built a thriving corporate career - becoming a C-suite executive and the only female vice president at a major insurance conglomerate.

When Sharon unexpectedly lost her job for daring to choose both career and motherhood, she turned the heartbreak into a springboard. The corporate rejection became her catalyst for creating multiple successful businesses, including a highly regarded public relations and media company, a manufacturing company (where she holds five patents), and even a regional lifestyle publication called Lake George Living Magazine.

Sharon’s unwavering belief in the power of boldness and self-permission has made her a true inspiration.

She teaches that success is not only about what you achieve but how you inspire others along the way.

Her motto, “If it is to be, it is up to me,” is a reflection of her belief that true change, growth, and impact start from within. Through her speaking engagements, writing, and mentorship, Sharon uplifts others to dream bigger, embrace risks, and step boldly into the next chapter of their lives.

Above all, Sharon Burstein is a living testament that obstacles - no matter how daunting - can be overcome with resilience, resourcefulness, and a commitment to standing in your true power.

She continues to expand her legacy of shaping futures, changing lives, and championing anyone willing to believe in themselves and take that bold first step.

Key Takeaways 1. Be Bold, Even When It’s Scary - Real growth begins outside your comfort zone, so dare to take the first leap. Even small, courageous moves can set you on a path to exciting new possibilities.

2. Use Challenges as Springboards - Obstacles aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. Each setback can spark an even stronger comeback if you choose to learn from it and keep going.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences - Find mentors, friends, and peers who build you up rather than hold you back. A supportive community can amplify your confidence and accelerate your success.

4. Find and Honor Your Own Voice - You have the power to stand up for yourself. No one else can speak your truth or do your “push-ups” for you - own your dreams fearlessly.

5. Practice Resilience Daily - Strengthen your resolve by viewing failures as lessons. Dust yourself off and try again with renewed passion and focus.

6. Be a Mentor and a Champion - Just as you benefit from role models, become a role model for those coming up behind you. Inspire others by sharing what you’ve learned on your journey.

7. Remember “If It Is to Be, It Is Up to Me” - True change starts with you. When you accept responsibility for your destiny, you unlock the courage to chase your goals with unwavering determination.

Quotes by Sharon

1. “You can either live life or watch life. I choose to live.”

2. “Life is a great adventure, and sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone to take bold steps at all ages. The only way to grow is by taking those risks.”

3. “No one can do your pushups for you.”

4. “If it is to be, it is up to me. The only person who can affect change in your life is you - no one else can do the work for you.”

Connect with Sharon Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sharonburstein/?hl=en Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonburstein Website - https://www.sharonburstein.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sharon.burstein.7/ X - https://twitter.com/sharonaburstein?lang=en

Masha Babajanov is a tattoo and make-up artist who transformed her career from designing commercial buildings to creating wearable works of art that celebrate individuality.

Early in her career, she worked as a commercial architect in a firm dominated by men.

Even though she was skilled, dedicated, and eager to prove herself, Masha faced unfair treatment from her boss. He made inappropriate remarks, challenged her in cruel ways, and tried to hold her back because she was a woman. When she became pregnant, this mistreatment became even worse. Instead of accepting it, Masha gathered her courage, took legal action, and won her case.

This difficult experience showed her she deserved better; both at work and in life.

Determined to find a career built on respect, freedom, and self-expression, Masha turned toward her artistic roots. She had always been gifted at drawing and painting, but had never fully realized what her talent could become.

Rather than return to architecture, she taught herself the art of permanent makeup. Starting from scratch in a new state, Masha learned all she could about pigments, tools, and techniques that highlight natural beauty. Before long, clients chose her not for location or price, but for the personal care and artistry she offered.

Still, Masha’s journey continued. She discovered fine line tattooing — a delicate, less common style in the U.S. — and studied with top artists abroad and in New York.

Through long hours of training and experimentation, she created tattoos that are gentle, refined, and deeply meaningful.

Central to Masha’s success is her empathy. She understands that many clients are nervous about permanent changes; especially those getting permanent work done for the first time.

She makes sure to listen closely to what they want, talk them through the process, and earn their trust. To Masha, each client’s feelings matter just as much as the final result.

Her focus is on enhancing natural beauty, boosting confidence, and helping people express themselves in new, empowering ways.

Masha’s journey shows that you can turn hardship into strength. She refused to let a bad situation define her. Instead, she found a new path and created a life where her talents shine brightly.

Her story reminds us that we can stand up against unfairness, reinvent ourselves at any stage, and follow our true passions. In doing so, we can discover a more meaningful, authentic life built on respect, creativity, and personal growth.

Above all, her example encourages us to trust our talents, believe in our dreams, and remember that no matter how tough the road becomes, we hold the power to shape our own destiny.

Key Takeaways from Masha Babajanov’s journey

1. Stand Up for Yourself - Even when facing injustice, speaking up and taking action can spark true change in your life and others.

2. Trust Your Creative Instincts - The talents and passions you carry inside are worth pursuing, even if they lead you down an unexpected path.

3. Embrace Reinvention - It’s never too late to pivot, learn new skills, and completely redefine your career and identity.

4. Find Support in Your Circle - Leaning on loved ones gives you the courage and confidence to face challenges head-on.

5. Make Your Work Personal - Infuse your craft with heart and authenticity—people will connect with the genuine story behind it.

6. Push Beyond Fear - Instead of letting intimidation hold you back, use it as fuel to refine your skills and build something extraordinary.

Inspiring Quotes by Masha Babajanov

1. "If you have a talent, recognize it. Always go with your heart, always go with your talent."

2. "Don’t go into something you’re not passionate about. If you love it, don’t be afraid to change your career if you have to."

3. "As long as you love what you do, you’ll always be amazing at it."

4. "If you’re facing mistreatment, file a complaint, take action—do something, because it’s not worth enduring that kind of treatment."

Connect with Masha LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-babajanov-79441159/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/isoltattoo/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/flmasha

Maya McNulty is an incredible woman with a story that shows the power of resilience and not giving up.

Before the pandemic, Maya was living a full and active life as a mom, entrepreneur, author, and community leader. But in March 2020, everything changed when she became seriously ill with COVID-19.

What followed was a life-threatening battle that tested her strength and determination like never before.

Maya spent 69 days in the hospital, including 30 days in a medically induced coma. When she woke up, she faced challenges most of us could never imagine. She had to relearn how to walk, eat, and even speak. Simple tasks like holding a water bottle or making a meal became milestones on her long journey to recovery.

Despite the hardships, Maya found hope and purpose. She refused to give up and chose to see her struggles as a way to inspire others.

Today, she is not only a survivor but also an advocate for children affected by COVID-19, especially those who lost parents or caregivers during the pandemic. She uses her voice to bring attention to their needs and give them the support they deserve.

Maya believes in celebrating small victories and finding strength in every step forward. She often says, “You are just one victory away,” reminding us that even the smallest progress can lead to big breakthroughs. Her scars, once a source of insecurity, are now a symbol of her survival and strength.

Through her work as an author, speaker, and nonprofit influencer, Maya touches countless lives, spreading a message of hope, resilience, and the importance of a positive mindset. She inspires people to face challenges head-on, embrace change, and never give up on themselves.

Maya McNulty’s story is a reminder that no matter how tough life gets, there is always a way to rise, rebuild, and rediscover your purpose.

Key Takeaways from Maya McNulty’s Story

1. Resilience is a Choice - No matter how tough life gets, you have the power to choose resilience. Embrace the challenges and fight for your recovery and growth.

2. Celebrate Small Victories - Progress comes one step at a time. Whether it’s walking a few steps or making your own bagel, every milestone is a testament to your strength.

3. Mindset Shapes Your Journey - A positive mental attitude can transform setbacks into comebacks. Shift your mindset, and watch your world change.

4. Lean on Your Community - Support from family, friends, and even strangers can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to reach out and build connections.

5. Purpose Comes from Adversity - Your struggles can guide you toward a greater mission. Like Maya, discover how your experiences can help others and bring meaning to your life.

6. You’re Just One Victory Away - Whatever challenge you’re facing, know that your next breakthrough is closer than you think. Keep moving forward and believe in yourself.

7. Life is Meant to Be Lived Fully - Laugh, love, and enjoy the journey. Don’t let hardships take away your joy - find purpose and beauty even in the toughest moments.

Inspiring Quotes by Maya McNulty

1. “You are just one victory away. No matter how big or small, your next breakthrough is closer than you think - keep moving forward.”

2. “Celebrate the small milestones; they are the building blocks to your greatest triumphs.”

3. “Your scars don’t define you - they are your survivor’s cape, symbols of the strength it took to overcome.”

4. “Life will challenge you, but it’s your choice to transform those challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose.”

Connect with Maya Instagram - LinkedIn - Website - Facebook - X - Amazon -