Writing Clips

With interests in so many areas, I’ve covered various topics. Please take a peek at some of my writing.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

PERSONAL FINANCE AND WORK

CRYPTOCURRENCY

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONNECTION

CELEBRITY INTERVIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT

BEAUTY

OTHER PROFILES AND SPOTLIGHTS

DINING AND LIFESTYLE

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

“How to Live Better With COPD” 
If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, these strategies can help you breathe easier and be more active
Consumer Reports

“What to Do About a Hernia” 
Most don’t go away on their own. Here’s what to consider
Consumer Reports

“Have You Scheduled Surgery? Then You’d Better Start Training.” 
Better preparation can help patients awaiting elective surgeries. Here are steps to consider and discuss with your surgeon
The Washington Post

A Star Is Born Shows How Damaging Tinnitus Can Be. Here’s How to Avoid It.”
If you’re around loud sounds, you could be at risk for noise-induced hearing damage and loss. These five tips could save your hearing
Men’s Health (also featured by MSN and Yahoo!)

“Keep These 10 Things Away From Your Vagina”
No, seriously. To avoid irritation, infection and more down there, call these things a ‘don’t’
Sisters From AARP

“Don’t Be Afraid to Ask These COVID Questions Before Meeting Someone From a Dating App”
It’s your right to ask if they’ve been wearing a mask.
Men’s Health

“Sexuality in Conversation: “What Men Might Be Overlooking About the Female Sexual Experience”
Nearly three in four women will have pain during intercourse at some point in their lives. Learn how men can help when their partners have pain—and still have intimacy
Playboy

“Will GoFundMe Become America’s Largest Private Insurer?”
Medical crowdfunding campaigns like those on GoFundMe.com are helping millions deal with health complications and bills. But what does this mean for our society?
Playboy

“5 Signs You Need to Break Up With Your Doctor”
It may be time to let some health care providers go
Sisters From AARP

“Being Bad Can Be Good” (PDF)
Let go of your guilt—new research reveals the benefits of bothersome behavior
AARP The Magazine

“10 Overhyped Health Products”
These 10 over-the-counter products aren’t always worth your money—and some can cause health problems instead of treating them
U.S. News & World Report (also featured by The Huffington Post, Yahoo!, and MSN)

“What Role Do Drugs Play in Determining Longevity?”
Drugs can be lifesavers, but they also have side effects and dangers
U.S. News & World Report (also featured in the U.S. News & World Report e-book How to Live to 100)

“Go With the Glow” (PDF)
Color from a good diet looks better than a suntan
AARP The Magazine

“6 Surprising Behaviors That Age You”
Want to stay young? How your exercise habits, and even your cooking style, can hurt you
U.S. News & World Report (also featured by CBSNews.com)

“5 Mistakes That Put Your Mouth At Risk for Cavities”
Why you should reconsider bottled water, overzealous brushing, and these other harmful habits
U.S. News & World Report (also featured by Yahoo!)

“9 Footwear Do’s and Don’ts”
Your shoes may be stylish, but should you be wearing them?
U.S. News & World Report (also featured by the news section of Yahoo! Finance)

“Do You Really Have Allergies?”
Maybe, but you could actually have one of these annoying ailments
U.S. News & World Report

“6 Symptoms You Shouldn’t Self-Treat”
These issues could signal more serious problems, so call your doctor, stat!
U.S. News & World Report

“How Being Polite Can Hurt Your Health”
When it comes to your health, you can be too nice
U.S. News & World Report

“5 Healthy Habits to Copy from Your Dog”
Fido does more than drool and shed—your dog can actually be a good health role model
U.S. News & World Report (also featured by CBSNews.com)

“Preventing Suicide on College Campuses” (PDF)
Colleges are more prepared than ever to provide assistance to students who are at risk
SAMHSA News (gold award winner at the Magnum Opus Awards)

PERSONAL FINANCE AND WORK

“What to Know About Investment Banking and the Professionals Driving the Biggest Deals on Wall Street”
An explainer on what investment banks do—from equity financing to mergers and acquisitions—and the role of investment bankers
Insider

“Bivocationalism Has Historical Roots — and Modern Benefits”
As church size declines, more pastors pursue second (and even third) careers for economic or personal reasons. Researchers and practitioners share guidance on how to make it work, advising that letting go of the stigma can be a first step.
Faith & Leadership

“6 Rules Any Investor Should Follow, From Beginners to Pros”
Investing can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. But even if you have some experience, you can always improve your strategy
Business Insider

“Following My Mother’s Savings Advice Meant I Could Leave My Full-Time Job Behind When It Was Making Me Miserable”
If you’re working on building savings, I can tell you the effort — no matter where you start — is worth it. Because autonomy is important
Business Insider

“I Haven’t Contributed to My Retirement Accounts in Years, But I Have an Even Better Plan for My Future”
Leslie Quander Wooldridge used to contribute to a 401(k), but when she went freelance, she switched to investing through a brokerage account
Business Insider

“Black Americans Are Less Likely to Invest Than White Americans, But Experts Say 5 Steps Can Change That
To close the investing gap, it’s important to know why investing matters, increase earning power, seek out reliable information, and take action
Business Insider (part of a series on the racial wealth gap)

“What 3 Self-Made Black Millionaires Want Black Americans to know About Building Wealth
They’re founders, CEOs, and financial coaches, and they all built their companies from the ground up
Business Insider (part of a series on the racial wealth gap)

“I Was Out of Work for Over a Month When the Government Shut Down in 2018, and I Learned 5 Lessons I’m Applying Today”
The 2018 government shutdown was the longest in history. These five money and mindset lessons can help—even today
Business Insider

“Everything You Need to Know About Investing in a Downturn”
Keep your emotions in check—and consider these other tips for individual stocks, index funds, retirement accounts, and more
Black Love (a five-part money series online and on social; click for video)

I Transfer Money to My Savings Account Then Pretend It Doesn’t Exist, and That Strategy Paid for a $4,000 European Vacation
For me, it’s a priority to live below my means so I can fund my savings and investments
Business Insider

“I Changed My Travel Plans Because of COVID-19, But There Are 3 Reasons I’m Not Changing a Single Thing About My Investment Strategy”
Does it hurt to see my portfolio down? Sure. But will that temporary hurt matter years from now when I’m ready to withdraw money? I don’t think so
Business Insider

“Want to Quit Your Job? Ask a Financial Planner 4 Questions First”
The desire to quit your job may seem urgent, but it’s important to think ahead before you give notice
Business Insider

“Could Changing Your Health Insurance Save You Money? 4 Ways to Know”
With healthcare costs rising, your insurance selection can affect your finances, so looking at your plan every year is important—and can save you money
Business Insider

“I Lowered My Bills by $7,000 Within Hours!”
Time is money! 6 ways to make a day off pay off
Sisters From AARP

“How to Find More Time in the Day”
Sis, you’re not Superwoman. Here’s how to avoid doing too much and feel less stress
Sisters From AARP

CRYPTOCURRENCY

“A Bitcoin IRA Lets You Profit From the Cryptocurrency’s Potential Gains in a Tax-Advantaged Way”
As news about Bitcoin continues to break, learn about the rules, benefits, and risks
Business Insider

“Fiat Money: Currencies That Derive Their Value Largely Through Trust in the Governments That Issue Them”
What is fiat money? What are its pros and cons? And how does it compare to cryptocurrency? This story explains
Business Insider

“Can Bitcoin Really Make You Rich?”
Though the cryptocurrency market, including Bitcoin, is volatile, it offers the chance to build wealth. Here are some basics to consider
Sisters From AARP

“Your Crypto and NFTs Could Outlive You: Here’s How to Plan”
That piece of paper with your private keys isn’t going to cut it. Here are estate planning steps to consider
Gokhshtein Media

“5 Easy Ways to Talk to Friends and Loved Ones About Crypto”
Many of us don’t want our loved ones left behind. Consider these tips
Gokhshtein Media

“Some NFTs Are Soaring: Here’s What to Know About the Market”
What the heck are NFTs—and what’s most popular per a recent survey? Here’s what to know
Gokhshtein Media

“Is There A Case Against Bitcoin Maximalists? 3 Smart Investment Perspectives”
Bitcoin isn’t the only cryptocurrency in town
Gokhshtein Media

“PayPal’s Latest Move: What Does It Mean For Crypto?”
With the financial services giant announcing it would allow certain users to “Checkout With Crypto,” consumers have another reason to consider using cryptocurrencies
Gokhshtein Media

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONNECTION

“Is it Lust or Love? Here’s How to Tell the Difference”
Before you drop the L-bomb, read this
Men’s Health

“6 Secrets to Getting Back Together With An Ex”
There might still be hope—if you follow these steps
Men’s Health

“Sexually Frustrated? Here’s How to Cope With Sexual Frustration, According to Experts”
Sexual frustration can affect your daily life, whether you’re single or in a relationship. Try these expert-approved strategies to help you manage it.
Men’s Health

“Is Flirting Cheating? Only If You Break This One Crucial Rule”
It’s not necessarily crossing a line
Men’s Health

“How to Get Rid of a Hickey as Fast As Possible”
Don’t want to wear a turtleneck for a week? We’ve got you
Men’s Health

“Don’t Post a Photo of Yourself With Strangers’ Children on Your Tinder Profile”
The latest questionable dating-site photo that rivals posing with a tiger or a bathroom selfie? Those seemingly snapped abroad—with other people’s children
The Washington Post

“The Keys to Fighting Loneliness”
Feeling lonely can affect your health. 8 ways to grow your relationships and feel more connected — right now
Sisters From AARP

“The Secret to Dating With Less Stress”
If you try it, dating can be much more fun
Sisters From AARP

“Here’s What Demisexual Means and How to Tell if it Applies to You”
Ever wondered why you don’t feel random sexual attraction to people? Read on
Men’s Health

“Not Sure If You Feel Sexual Attraction? Read This”
Here’s a primer on allosexuality, how it differs from asexuality, and what to know about non-sexual kinds of attraction.
Men’s Health

“26 Daytime Date Ideas That Are Easy, Fun, and Affordable”
You can do so much better than “coffee”
Men’s Health

“Sharing a Building Leads to a Shared Mission for an AME Church and a Latino Congregation”
Two pastors built a friendship across barriers of language and culture, uniting their congregations and together reaching out to their community
Faith & Leadership (selected as one of the site’s top 10 stories for the year)

“25 Romantic Fall Date Ideas That Aren’t Drinks”
Because cuffing season is coming
Men’s Health

“Revealed: 6 Ways to Divorce-Proof Your Marriage”
Veteran divorce and family attorney Michelle C. Thomas reveals how you can avoid needing legal services — and what to know if you really have tried everything.
Sisters From AARP

“26 COVID-Safe Valentine’s Day Ideas to Do in Quarantine”
Fancy dinner may not be on the menu, but these romantic activities are still awesome
Men’s Health

“Couples Corner: A Lupus Diagnosis Can Bring You Closer”
When attorney and novelist Chloe T. Barlow was diagnosed with lupus, it united her and  her husband—and changed their lives
Lupus Now magazine

“Meet the Real You” (PDF)
You think you know yourself—but your friends may know you even better
AARP The Magazine

CELEBRITY INTERVIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT

“Pastor Shirley Caesar Suggests Doing This to Find Gratitude and Be Encouraged
The 12-time Grammy-winning gospel singer and songwriter has thoughts on a path forward. Here’s what she says about how we can walk it
Sisters From AARP

“LisaRaye McCoy on Healing, Honesty and 1 Must-Do Activity for 2022
The actress, TV host, entrepreneur talks with ‘Sisters’ about her personal life and career, and one simple thing that can help us succeed right now. Plus, watch the ‘Sisters’ premiere event!
Sisters From AARP

Bevy Smith Shows Why ‘There’s No Such Thing as Too Late’ to Dream
In her new book, the TV and radio personality and former advertising executive reveals why our goals and stories are so important — and how we can respond to trials
Sisters From AARP

“Whitney Houston Becomes First Black Artist With 3 Diamond Albums”
We’ve still got love for this legendary singer as her second studio release, Whitney, makes this celebrated list.
Sisters From AARP

“‘God Has Revealed Himself to Me, Many Times'”
TV host, comedienne and author Loni Love reveals thoughts on her new memoir, how she’s embraced so-called flaws and the power of faith. Plus, get details on an exclusive Sisters event
Sisters From AARP

“A Vital Voice” (PDF)
Design icon Diane von Furstenberg lends support to Vital Voices global partnership, empowering women around the world
Capitol File

8 OMG STFU Moments As We Say Goodbye to Olivia Pope, B613 and the End of a ‘Scandal’ Full Era 
Some of the most legendary moments from the past seven seasons
The Grio

“A Scandal Star”
Bellamy Young plays the first lady on the wildly popular DC-based drama
Capitol File 

“Advocate for Immigrants” (PDF)
Salma Hayek Pinault receives honors from the Congressional Caucus Institute and reflects on diversity in DC and beyond
Capitol File

“A Capitol Chat” (PDF)
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and political strategist Donna Brazile talk friendship and food
Capitol File

“Television Magic”  (PDF)
CBS This Morning coanchors Gayle King and Norah O’Donnell dish on their show’s two-year anniversary and their hometown connection
Capitol File

BEAUTY

9 Home Hair-Care Secrets From a Celebrity Stylist”
Tippi Shorter dishes exclusively to Sisters on how we can best care for our hair right now and look and feel our best, including one secret that surprised even me
Sisters From AARP

“The Ancient Technique That Could Make Your Hair Stronger and Shinier”
This inexpensive treatment “absolutely” works, says scientist and hair expert Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D. Here’s how to try it
Sisters From AARP

“If You’d Like to Clear Dark Spots, Look for This Ingredient on Skin Care Labels”
Here’s how tranexamic acid may help even out your skin tone — and how it stacks up against other treatments
Sisters From AARP

“In a New Light” (PDF)
The future of cosmetic procedures is now, and it looks bright. The latest generation of treatments is helping DC men and women look and feel their best
Capitol File

“The Cellulite Fight” (PDF)
Does anything really work?
Philadelphia Style

OTHER PROFILES AND SPOTLIGHTS

“Three Men, a Lost Dog and a Happy Ending”
On an ordinary caving expedition, Gerry Keene came across an extraordinary find: a dog in need of rescue
AARP The Magazine (also see PDF)

“What This Chef and Farmer Learned From His Nana”
Matthew Raiford honors his heritage and expertise with lessons from his grandmother
AARP The Magazine (also see PDF)

“A Sweepstakes and a New Splendid Story”
Award-winning author Victoria Christopher Murray releases her new novel, Wrath, and gets real on what sustains her, romance after widowhood and more. Plus, enter for a chance to win her new book! [sweepstakes has since closed]
Sisters From AARP

“Pets and Their People During the Coronavirus Pandemic”
How animals are making lockdowns more bearable
AARP The Magazine

“After Long Career, Chef Goes Back to School, Honoring Her Ancestors’ Legacy”
Georgetown undergraduate Mélisande Short-Colomb treads ground saved by her ancestors’ sacrifice
AARP The Magazine

“Lions, Tigers, and Caring” (PDF)
Animal keeper Rebecca Stites cares for great cats at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and helps prepare new tiger cubs for their public debut
Capitol File

“She’s Got Rhythm” (PDF)
A wannabe drummer goes from shy to fly
AARP The Magazine

“The Business of Beauty” (PDF)
For a woman who loved fashion and beauty as a child, Juliana Hendershot has the perfect job
Scholar

“A Business With Heart” (PDF)
As a ward of the New York City foster care system, Dr. Nathaniel Williams’ childhood was full of dreams—and little else. Now he touches the lives of thousands
Scholar

DINING AND LIFESTYLE

“The Grandest Garden” (PDF)
Beyond its province as a beautiful retreat, the U.S. Botanic Garden is taking the lead in preservation efforts by cultivating rare, endangered, and heirloom plants
Capitol File

“Wedding Vendors: When to Say Yes—Or No”
You’re super excited about your big day even though your to-do list seems miles long. But how do you know if that DJ you’re eyeing will be a good fit? Or if you should hire that perky photographer?
Bridal Guide

“The 15 Best Dance Clubs in DC” 
Find the best dance clubs in DC, from super luxe destinations to venues serving a more laid-back crowd
Time Out

“The Grape Outdoors” (PDF)
Award-winning vintages are pouring out of Virginia and Maryland. Capitol File goes behind the scenes to reveal what’s driving this delicious renaissance
Capitol File 

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