eWallstreeter

It’s Never Too Late

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:05 EDT

The journey of one Latin American entrepreneur has taught her the importance of choosing the right team and the benefits of accelerator programs. By Angela Cois (Co-founder & COO, LastRoom) My story as entrepreneur starts late and, unfortunately, it’s not full of impressive numbers or big successes. I’d rather say that it’s a story of [...]

Downtown Las Vegas Reimagined as a Startup (Photos)

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 EDT

In the last of a four-part series on Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh's Downtown Project, we look at the city in the process of reinvention.

TFG Thursday Linkfest: OFFSEASON???

Thu, 23 May 2013 07:48:10 EDT

Niners still in Vegas driver's seat; J.J. Watt's great gesture; and an argument that the NFL is not doing nearly enough about its concussion epidemic.

Health Insurance Reform: Steps to Take Now to Prepare

Thu, 23 May 2013 07:00:00 EDT

Plan ahead for Obamacare to control costs and limit confusion.

Why Do We Need Male Mentors and Sponsors?

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:00:07 EDT

By Melissa J. Anderson (New York City) By now, we know that mentors and sponsors are critical for our career advancement. We need mentors who can be our sounding boards and give us advice, and we also need sponsors who push us toward stretch opportunities and have our backs behind the scenes. Mentor and sponsor [...]

The Pros and Cons of Google Glass for Business Travel

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:00:00 EDT

Despite some drawbacks, Google's futuristic eyewear can be an indispensable travel device.

Do you know your entrepreneur style profile?

Thu, 23 May 2013 04:15:42 EDT

At Zukuri UnLtd, we’ve created 6 key Entrepreneur Style Profiles to help you pick clothes that suit your working lifestyle, highlight your ‘style sleeve’ values and resonate with your clients. For this series I’m going to talk through – The People Person, The Traditionalist, The Homeworker and The Creative Hipster Below are the First 2 entrepreneur ...

Is a Promotion Always Good News?

Thu, 23 May 2013 01:00:00 EDT

A reader recently asked this question: I have been at my current workplace for 2.5 years, and I’ve had 3 raises and 2 promotions during that time. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Well, the thing is, I worry that these promotions...

DIY Mason Jar Foaming Soap Dispenser

Wed, 22 May 2013 23:05:59 EDT

I've been hoarding collecting empty Bath & Body Works foaming soap bottles, ever since I found this easy tutorial on Life With Laura about converting mason jars into foaming soap dispensers. I always buy all of the large amounts of soap when they go on clearance, so these dispensers are perfect at disguising my frugality. When people come to my house for our 4th of July BBQ, no one can tell they just used St. Patrick's Day soap that I stockpiled at 90% off. These are so simple to make and add a touch of Southern charm to your home. They also make easy, inexpensive gifts. Materials:Empty Bath & Body Works Foaming Soap Bottle Regular Mouth 16oz. Mason JarKitchen ShearsDrillTin SnipsSpray Paint (I used Oil Rubbed Bronze)Glue Gun Before starting, I unscrewed the soap pump and thoroughly rinsed off the soap pump and the bottle.First, I took the bottle and used kitchen shears to cut off the top, leaving about an inch of plastic (in addition to the top part that screws onto the pump).Next, I drilled a small hole in the Mason jar lid, allowing enough room for the soap pump tube to fit through.With the lid on the Mason jar, I fed the soap pump tube through the hole and traced a circle on the lid. This helped me figure out how much of the lid needed to be cut.Next, I used tin snips to carefully cut out the traced circle from the Mason jar lid. Spray paint the Mason jar lid & band, as well as the soap pump (minus the tube). You may need a couple of coats, and you really want to ensure you allow a few days for it to properly dry.Once the paint is dried, you'll take the bottle piece you previously cut, and push it through the top of your Mason jar lid. Screw the soap pump onto the bottle your lid should be in the middle). If you soap pump wiggles around on the lid a bit, you'll probably want to use the glue gun at this point. At this point, I used a bit of hot glue to adhere the bottle piece to the bottom of the Mason jar lid. I always buy all of the large amounts of soap when they go on clearance, so these dispensers are perfect at disguising my frugality. When people come to my house for our 4th of July BBQ, no one can tell they just used St. Patrick's Day soap that I stockpiled at 90% off. These are so simple to make and add a touch of Southern charm to your home. They also make easy, inexpensive gifts. Mother's Day, anyone? I'd love to know how this turned out for you!...

When I Become a Beastly Mom

Wed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EDT

Editor's Note: We all strive to be good moms, right? But if we're honest, with ourselves and others, we're not always spot on. Some days are really, really hard. Some harder than others. Amy at Adorable Chaos recently wrote about those moments when she turns from Good Mom into Beastly Mom. I think we can all relate. -Jenna The Good, the Bad and the Beastly Mother: But there are days like today, when I don’t have a fucking clue what they need. Hell, I don’t even know what I need. I turn into beastly mom. Long streams of words fly around me while I attempt to regain some sense of sanity. Then I try to tell myself I need more fresh green juices to power through the day. It should be that simple, right? Then I blame Lyme or gluten for my own bad behavior. Finally, I convince myself that the kid’s difficult behavior is a genetic mutation from the Husband’s side of the family. I keep looking all around me to figure out what the hell is up with my seriously discontent children. There is one place that I am not looking. At me. Damn it. Now I have to look at me. Credit: pixellou.

Join us at The Inc. Leadership Forum

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:48:05 EDT

Chic CEO members save 50% on The Inc. Leadership Forum, June 10-12, 2013 at the La Costa Resort & Spa! read more

Sheryl and Marissa make Forbes 100 Most Powerful Women

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:00:15 EDT

Facebook COO and Lean in author Sandberg placed at #6 and Mayers placed at #32. By Rachel Lehmann-Haupt (Editor, Women 2.0) Tech titans Sheryl Sandberg and Marissa Mayers were two of sixteen tech leaders on the infamous Forbes’ World’s 100 Most Powerful Women. Facebook COO and Lean in author Sandberg placed at #6 and Mayers placed at [...]

How Does Distracted Parenting Affect Our Kids?

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:00:00 EDT

Editor's Note: Sarah at Clover Lane quoted a bit of a talk by Rosemary M. Wixom to start off a discussion about distracted parenting. In it, Wixom brought up a study by Dr. Neal Halfon of UCLA, stating how when a dad neglected to engage with his child, there was a dimming of the child's internal light. Those words cause me to stop and think about how I interact and engage, even if sometimes phones are okay to use. Read on for more important thoughts on distracted parenting. -Jenna Distracted Parenting: I am old enough to remember a time as a mother when there were no cell phones, when a computer wasn't a necessary addition to the household. I know things have changed attention-wise because of all this technology at our fingertips. If I go back far enough, I remember being raised with a phone that was attached to the wall. Which meant if my mom needed to talk to someone, the only multi-tasking she could be doing was within 3 feet of the outer wall of our kitchen. Do you know what that meant? With five children, there wasn't a lot of multi-tasking while on the phone! Phone calls were generally quick, and had a purpose. Even if "catching up" was the purpose, we knew that we had to wait 5 or 10 minutes, quietly, and my mom would be "back". Credit: dno1967b.

Hold Your Hazelnuts: World Nutella Day Will Go On

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:51:06 EDT

Hold your hazelnuts, and pick up your spoons. The makers of Nutella say World Nutella Day will live on after all. Ferrero, Nutella's parent company, announced today that it reversed last week's decision to stop blogger and World Nutella Day founder Sara Rosso from hosting the annual celebration of the beloved Italian snack food. Ferrero's statement said that the cease and desist letter was a "routine brand defense procedure" in response to "misuse of the Nutella brand on the fan page." Image: Marcus Brandt/ZUMA Press Rosso announced earlier this week that she would close up the hazelnut holiday shop-- the World Nutella Day site, as well as Twitter and Facebook accounts--on May 25 in compliance with Ferrero's wishes. The cease and desist letter was a bit of a surprise and a disappointment, as over the years I’ve had contact and positive experiences with several employees of Ferrero, SpA., and with their public relations and brand strategy consultants, and I’ve always tried to collaborate and work together in the spirit and goodwill of a fan-run celebration of a spread I (to this day) still eat. Rosso started World Nutella Day in 2007 with what she says were a few hundred food bloggers, and it's now expanded to other social media platforms. The Facebook page has more than 40,000 likes, and there are almost 6,900 Twitter followers. "There have been songs sung about it, short films created for it, poems written for it, recipes tested for it, and photos taken for it," Rosso said on the website. General reaction to Ferrero's cease and desist was a big "what the Nutella?" Bloggers, marketers, and Tweeters wondered why a brand would slap down a brand advocate for creating and helping to sustain an annual celebration of their product, adding annually to Nutella's already sizable digital footprint. What were they thinking? From the World Nutella Day Facebook page: Stupid company. The backlash they're going to get will be--ahem--nuts. When world Nutella Day is outlawed, only outlaws will celebrate world Nutella day! Cease & desist? How bout I cease & desist buying Ferrero products?!? Fortunately I have a nice little stash at the moment, so I can wean myself off gradually. But when it's gone, I'm gone! Whatever they were thinking, Ferrero rethought it. Rosso also posted today that it was all sorted out. I’m relieved to say there’s been a positive resolution to the situation. Ferrero employees reached out to me directly after I had posted my fan letter online and sent my formal reply to their C&D. They were very gracious and supportive and we were able to have a productive discussion about World Nutella Day living on for the fans, which is the whole point. Also, no, it wasn't a hoax. No, she was not compensated by Ferrero and never has been. No, she will not release the cease and desist letter. And most importantly, mark February 5, 2014 on your calendar if you're a devotee. That's next year's World Nutella Day, and it's totally legal. Here are some Nutella recipe ideas, in case you want to celebrate early. Sara's own Nutella Mascarpone Chocolate Cream Tarts, maybe? Contributing Editor Laurie White lives online at LaurieMedia and @lauriewrites. ...

Communication Training & Gender Bias

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:43:19 EDT

My StoryGender bias is subtle. We are no longer in the days of Mad Men, though that is not a unviersal truth. I almost prefer the blatant, obvious gender discrimination of that age (of course, I was too young to live with it) to the insidiously subtle bias of today. I had coffee with an elightened male colleague yesterday and he was shocked to learn that gender bias was still an issue in our soc…Read more | View all

Liz Smith: Hold On To Your Ice Picks

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:14:55 EDT

“THERE’S NO smoking in this building, ma’am.” “What are you going to do, arrest me for smoking?” So it went between murder suspect Sharon Stone and the detectives grilling her in 1992’s “Basic Instinct.” Moments later Sharon briefly uncrossed her legs and made movie history. (“I forgot my panties that day,” Stone would later complain [...]

Keeping Track of Family Memories with Microsoft SkyDrive and Skype

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:11:53 EDT

Time goes by so fast, and as a Mom and the family historian I want to make sure I am keeping track and sharing family memories. The first step in this effort was learning to copy all digital pictures … Continue reading →

Michael Crabtree's Injury Leaves 49ers Receiving Corps in SOS Mode

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:52:30 EDT

devastating news for a receiver finally coming into his own.

After Hacks, Twitter Updates Sign-In Security

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:45:00 EDT

The microblogging service has updated its safeguards to include two passwords when logging in.

OMG! Mommy Has Sex!

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:32:39 EDT

The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article by Elizabeth Bernstein titled "How Often Should Married Couples Have Sex?" I truly believe this is a great read that raises some interesting points but I must admit that when I read a write up about the article on the Huffington Post the other night I was highly critical of the piece. Image: True Nature Productions via Flickr If you are an avid reader of my blog you know that I am very open when discussing sex. I am fortunate to have a great sex life and I am crazy enough to share it with the world. Many women and men have written me, thanking me for talking about sex, giving them the courage to go get some from there husbands and/or wives and praising me for giving married sex a voice. I have also received some nasty emails from women, mainly mothers, who scold me for openly discussing my sex life and shaming me for being a mother who talks the way I do. Talks the way I do...I am not sure what exactly that is supposed to mean, but I have interpreted to mean that I am in some way being dirty and pornographic, to which I say, you are so, so wrong.A month or so ago I wrote a piece for The Epistolarians where I tackled the taboo of sex in the momosphere. Sex is something we all should be having. If you are not, you are only holding out on yourself. Nothing relieves stress or gets you out of a funk better than an orgasm. Sex isn't some dirty, pornographic thing that mothers should be secretly desiring while sitting at their desk at work or while folding a load of laundry. Sex is a natural part of being a human being, not some x-rated act that only whores perform. Sex is what keeps the human race going and what keeps many of us sane.Talking the way I do is in no way a disgusting or shameful. I truly believe that I talk about sex in a respectful manner. I do not in any way think that me openly discussing an orgasm or blow job is something that is pornographic in nature nor is it something that I should be shutting my mouth about because I am a mother. Those that have written to me, thanking me for giving sex a platform in the momosphere are women who may not be as open or outspoken as I am and by me writing what and how I do, I have given them a voice, courage and help for their own sex lives. If talking the way I do is offensive to you, then please, by all means, stop reading my blog. I am in no way forcing you to click on a link, I am not forcing you to stay on my page so I can forcefully shove the words sex, orgasm and blow job down your throat. You choose to come to my blog and you have the choice to leave and not read the smut (as some of you have called it).Women and mothers are allowed to enjoy sex without feeling shamed and dirty. Women are allowed to have an active sex life, experiment and enjoy the pleasure, closeness and fun that comes along with it. Sex is not a shameful act. It is not something that should be banned from the momosphere. It is not some dirty deed that only dirty girls perform. I am not sure why or when sex became such a don't go there topic but it has.When I first approached The Big Guy with the idea that I would openly discuss sex, I wasn't sure he would be on board with the idea or not. If he wasn't, I would 100% respect his feelings and not discuss it. But he was 100% fine with me talking about it, as long as I did it in a tasteful and/or humorous way, which I believe I do. I do not talk about each and every time we do the deed. Just like any other writer, I pick and choose what I write about, how much detail I give and I try, like any topic I write about, to leave you, the reader with a laugh, an insight, or a helpful dose of information that you can in turn, use in your own life. I think I (for the most part) approach the topic of sex in an extremely tasteful way, mostly using humor to tell a story.Sex is a subject that you have to be willingly open to talk about and discuss. It has to be. Your sex life is going to suffer if you don't. You have to be able to laugh at the mishaps that do sometimes happen when sex is involved. You have to be willing to discuss the wants and needs you and your partner desire. Sex isn't something that magically becomes awesome right from the start. Sex is a continually growing, always evolving thing between yourself and your partner. Without communication your sex life will falter and eventually become no......

Lessons in Persuasion From Apple CEO Tim Cook

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EDT

Cook's appearance before the U.S. Senate on Tuesday was a master class in the art of negotiation.

Suit of the Week: Laundry by Shelli Segal

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:30:14 EDT

For busy working women, the suit is often the easiest outfit to throw on in the morning. In general, this feature is not about interview suits for women, which should be as classic and basic as you get -- instead, this feature is about the slightly different suit that is fashionable, yet professional. Some people don't like three-quarter sleeve jackets, but I've never had a problem with them -- particularly as someone whose arms are apparently just a *touch* too short for most off-the-rack blazers, if they're an evil, they're a necessary evil for me. With that in mind, I really like this pique suit from Laundry by Shelli Segal -- the price is right, stretch pique is a great fabric for summer, and I'd probably wear the pieces as separates as much as I'd wear them as a suit. (If you have a summer internship coming up that requires a suit, this would be a great one to expand your collection or even to be the suit you keep in your office.) Due to a big Memorial Day Sale happening, you can take 40% off the entire site, including clearance, so this suit is crazy affordable: The jacket (Laundry by Shelli Segal Notch-Collar Pique Jacket) was $225, but is now marked to $99; with the sale it comes down to $59 (!!!); the skirt (Laundry by Shelli Segal Textured Pique Pencil Skirt) was $145, but is now marked to $69, but with the sale comes down to $41. Happy shopping, ladies... :) (L-5)The post Suit of the Week: Laundry by Shelli Segal appeared first on Corporette.com.

Entrepreneurship in the U.S. Reaches Highest Level in More Than a Decade (Infographic)

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:25:00 EDT

More than one in 10 Americans were developing their own business in 2012, according to the U.S. Global Entrepreneurship Monitor released today. Here's a look at the demographics of the community.

Bergdorf Goodman Contemporary 5F Spring Fling Sale – Deal Alert

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:06:19 EDT

So it turns out Nordstrom is not the only sale in town today -- my FB feed is filled with my blogger friends dying over the Bergdorf Goodman 5F Contemporary Spring Fling sale. And oh, it is good, ladies. The 5F contemporary sale is what's being promoted, but if you cruise around the site you'll see that there are some major deals in every section, with prices up to 75% off. Lots of lucky sizes left, but great prices -- for example, this lovely Theory black/navy sheath dress in dark navy, only available in size 4 -- it was $275, but is now marked to $96. Some of the brands I'm seeing well represented in the sale: Elie Tahari, Theory, Diane von Furstenberg, Alice + Olivia, Milly, Rag & Bone, Nanette Lepore, and Vince. A few picks, below (hover over the pics for more info): Oh, and you guys will be shocked -- shocked! -- to hear that the 3.1 Philip Lim Pajama Silk Shorts Suit is on sale. Wonder why it didn't sell?The post Bergdorf Goodman Contemporary 5F Spring Fling Sale – Deal Alert appeared first on Corporette.com.

Early Adopters Are Men? That’s Ridiculous, Says Sephora CMO

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:17 EDT

Companies that persist in picturing early adopters as exclusively male are missing out on massive business opportunities, claims Sephora’s CMO. By Jessica Stillman (Editor, Women 2.0) Who’s the stereotypical early adopter of tech innovations? For the answer look no further than satirical Tumblr ‘White Guys Wearing Google Glass.’ This white dude image might not be [...]

I'm Going to Be a Mom: I Can't Smoke

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:49:49 EDT

Here's something most of my blog readers don't know: I used to be a smoker. Not a casual smoker, but an all day, everyday habitual smoker. Growing up, my parents were smokers. They still are. They bought cartons of cigarettes and as a teenager I started stealing and smoking their packs. I tried to quit many times over the years but actually really enjoyed smoking. And, well, I was addicted. As a teenager and young adult, I was environmentally conscious, concerned about the toxins in body care products and preferred organic food. I was a vegetarian for most of my life. I did yoga and went on meditation retreats. I had dreadlocks and didn't shave. A bit of a tree-hugger, really. I was also an athlete: high school wrestling, field hockey, ringette. Smoking felt wrong, and just didn't "fit" with the person I was or wanted to be. But there was nothing that could get me to quit for good. Then, at 26 years old, I got pregnant. I was in the car--a long drive from Toronto to Montreal with my chain-smoking sister. A bizarre thought entered my head. "If I'm pregnant, I need to stop smoking." It probably sounds unbelievable, but at that moment, I just knew in my gut that I was carrying a child. Even though my boyfriend (a sexy French jazz musician) and I weren't actively trying for a baby, we knew it was a real possibility and embraced the thought of parenthood as well as any fancy free couple could. The image of smoke reaching my baby tortured me and I threw my half-done cigarette out the car window. That was that. I took a pregnancy test a few days later and we had confirmation. I was going to be a mama. Time to stress smoke? I didn't, honest. Throughout the pregnancy, if I craved a cigarette I just visualized the toxins reaching the baby and that image was strong enough to put me off. That was three years ago and I haven't smoked since. I didn't want to endanger my child's health by smoking while pregnant and I never wanted her to see me smoking. I didn't want smoke lingering on my clothes or in the house and as she grew, I wanted her to know that smoking is a really bad idea. I chose to lead by example. From the time I quit smoking I just continued to make healthier lifestyle choices for myself and my family. I married the sexy jazz musician, and we now have two kids--one 27-month-old girl and a one-month-old boy. They are both breastfed and both wear cloth diapers. We do everything as naturally as we can. This means we pretty much eat only organic produce. We are not rich by any stretch but we prioritize good food and go without other luxuries. I mostly clean with vinegar, water and essential oils. I often wonder what our lives would be like if we were still smokers (my husband smoked until just a few months before I got pregnant.) Would we find the money for pesticide-free fruit? When stresses mount (and boy do they mount when you're tandem nursing a toddler and a newborn) I sometimes think I'd like a cigarette. Just one. But I know myself well enough to know that would be a mistake. Instead, I just think of the many ways my smoking would affect my sweet children. It's still enough to deter me from going back to life as a smoker. My kids might never thank me for quitting smoking. They may never even know I used to do it. But I'll always thank my daughter for giving me the strength and motivation to quit for good. This post is part of BlogHer's My 'I'm a Mom' Moment editorial series, made possible by Seventh Generation.

Working Well With Support Staff

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:26:21 EDT

Advice for the New CareeristEver had trouble getting along with and getting what you want from office support staff? Watch this VIDEO for a few tips.Read more | View all

Summer Grilling: 10 Recipes That Will Turn Your Grill On

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:02:43 EDT

Editor’s note: Dust off your grills, with the arrival of Memorial Day weekend it’s officially grilling season. Shawn from I Wash, You Dry shares 10 of her go-to grilling recipes. Make a meal of it, with Thai Beef Skewers, Smoked Garden Turkey Burgers, and Cheesy Tin Foil Potato Packets. She even includes a bonus recipe for Strawberry Pineapple Popsicles. --Jane Memorial Day is just [a few days] away! Are you ready to fire up the grill and celebrate? Here are just a few of my favorite grilling recipes, just in case you need some inspiration outside of hamburgers and hot dogs…. Image: Courtesy of I Wash, You Dry

Women Leaders Discuss Investment Management in Uncertain Times

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:29 EDT

By Melissa J. Anderson (New York City) Last week The Glass Hammer hosted its 6th annual Top Women on the Buy-Side Breakfast. The lively discussion gave way to even livelier networking, as senior women across the investment management industry mulled over the question, “Where do we go from here?” Our panel included Jane Buchan, PhD, [...]

Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale – Deal Alert!

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:55:10 EDT

As promised, I thought I'd round up some of my favorites from the big clearance sale going on at Nordstrom right now. I've also gone through and added previous recommendations (tons of shoes in particular) to the Corporette Bargains page. A few more notes: there is a TON of St. John on sale, for some reason -- from classic sheath dresses and suit jackets to fun silky t-shirts; check it out if you're a fan of the brand. Great work pants. There are just lucky sizes left in each pant, but the general selection is pretty good and I'd be surprised if there isn't something for everyone. Just search on your size first... Some classic reader favorites are on sale: the Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Faux Wrap Jersey Dress (in plus sizes too), the Halogen Seamed Pencil Skirt (and the new Halogen Seamed Sheath Dress - lots of colors for $50), and the Shimera Seamless Camisole. Due to tech problems, I don't think my previous recs on sale are showing up yet, so some of the great shoes that were previous recommendations, now on sale, include the Kors Michael Kors Ghita Pump, the Stuart Weitzman Daydream Pump, the Cole Haan Air Tali Wedge, the Geox Donna Marian 2 Pump, the Michael Michael Kors Pressley Cap Toe Pump, the Franco Sarto Cicero Pump, and the Joan and David Gardner Pump -- oh yes, and the Kate Spade Alix Jacket. Anyway, here are a few of my favorites from today's sale -- hover over the pictures for more info. Readers, what are you getting (or tempted by) at the Nordstrom sale? (L-all)The post Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale – Deal Alert! appeared first on Corporette.com.

Brian Urlacher Retires After 13 Seasons

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:52:23 EDT

What a career it was.

My Struggle With the Boy Scouts of America's Ban on Gays

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:40:13 EDT

The Boy Scouts of America began its membership recruiting in our school a month ago. Being the mom of two boys, I always thought we would be active members of the Boy Scouts. However, the organization's stand against gay members and leaders has made me hesitate about getting involved. The Boy Scouts of America professes to teach strong American values, all the while discriminating and excluding openly gay members and leaders. At a time when my children are learning about how they will treat other people, I'm torn about getting involved in such an organization. On a local level, I've spoken with otherBoy Scout parents in my community who are publicly against the organization's stand. On a national level, however, it is a different story. Image Credit: Timefortea3 via Flickr This week, hundreds of Boy Scout leaders will gather for its annual meeting. Most notably, for me, they will vote on this statement: “No youth may be denied membership in the Boy Scouts of America on the basis of sexual orientation or preference alone.” While this vote is a significant first step for the group, it is certainly not the last. In addition to welcoming gay members, it is just as important to welcome gay leaders.I truly hope the administration is able to make this first step in welcoming all people of the community in the Boy Scouts, which really is the basis of the scouts in the first place. The scouts have always stood for strong character building. When we talk about character building, the key is to recognize the Boy Scouts have spent more than 100 years teaching boys how to be self-sufficient, kind-hearted and community-oriented. In fact, according to the Boy Scouts of America' website, the group provides educational programs for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship and to develop personal fitness. No where does it mention exclusion, judgement or hate.After struggling with this conundrum, I did sign up my son to be part of the Boy Scouts. He's at an age where he doesn't understand the national debate. And if it does come up, I can teach him about how we are all people at the end of the day and express my sadness that some people can't honor others. The benefit of joining the Boy Scouts on the local level is invaluable. Whether we support the Boy Scouts beyond my son's early elementary years will greatly depend on the outcome of this vote.Your move, Boy Scouts of America.______________________www.thejennyevolution.com...

Senator Urges SEC to Increase Diversity on Corporate Boards

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:31:43 EDT

In a letter sent today to Mary Jo White, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) urged the SEC to take steps to address the lack of representation of women and minorities on corporate boards. In his letter, Senator Casey cited several statistics from a recent Alliance Board for Diversity [...]The post Senator Urges SEC to Increase Diversity on Corporate Boards appeared first on Women on Business.

The Psychology of Color and Branding (Infographic)

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:30:00 EDT

Why companies like McDonaldâs and Pizza Hut prefer red whereas Loweâs opts for blue.

My Interview for the Position of Stay-at-Home Mom

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:06:14 EDT

For a multitude of reasons, my husband and I have decided it might be best if I become a stay-at-home mom. And for a multitude of reasons, I am excited, nervous, and eager to possibly begin this very new, very important chapter of my life. I’m kind of panicking, to be honest. I mean, I want very badly to be THE BEST SAHM the world has ever known. Yes, I know it’s an impossibility, and that putting that kind of pressure on myself is ridiculous. But really, truly, I want to do a DAMN good job as a full-time mommy. In preparation for the transition, I’ve created schedules, ordered educational toys and materials, joined a handful of mommy groups, and mapped out lots of different local attractions and activities I can use for our daily outings. I’m taking this whole thing very seriously. Maybe a bit TOO seriously. To lighten the mood in my brain, I’ve been fantasizing about what it would be like if I actually had to have a job interview with my kiddos. Granted, my son is only six months old, and my daughter is only two and a half, so some of the imagined conversation is a bit contrived, but it makes me laugh, and that’s really all that matters. Allow me to share. Scene: A fluorescent-lit meeting room with one of those very long, very intimidating meeting room tables. My daughter is sitting at the far end, in a booster seat that makes her head just peek out over the top of the table. To her immediate right, my son is sitting in a noisy swing, swinging back and forth, teething on his favorite chew toy. Emmy: Good morning, mama. So you’ve come to interview for the position of Stay-at-Home-Mom? Me: Yes, good morning. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I really appreciate the opportunity. Emmy: Of course. It’s our pleasure. Have a seat. (Emmy points to the seat at the far opposite end of the table. I take a seat.) Emmy: We’ve looked at your resume. We haven’t read it, because we can’t read, but we’ve looked at it. Tell me, why have you decided to apply for this position? Me: Well, in a nut shell, I’ve decided that being a good mommy to you and Baby O is my number one priority right now, and other things can wait. I want to provide both of you with a loving, consistent environment that fosters your growth and development. Emmy: That’s all well and good, mama, theoretically speaking. But let’s talk about your qualifications. Are you familiar with “Ring Around the Rosie?” Me: Of course, yes. I’m very familiar with “Ring Around the Rosie.” Emmy: How many times IN A ROW would you say you’d be willing to play “Ring Around the Rosie”? Me: Um, off the top of my head? Maybe FOUR times? (Baby O stops teething and looks at me with horror) Emmy: FOUR times? Just FOUR times? Me: Okay, maybe FIVE times? Emmy: That will NEVER do. We’re going to need you to play “Ring Around the Rosie” at least eighteen times in a row, mama. With enthusiasm. No excuses. Do you think you can do that? Me: (with some very acute hesitation) Sure. Yeah. I can do that. Eighteen times, huh? Emmy: And none of that pseudo “ooh, I’m falling down” charade. You can’t just SQUAT and call it “falling down.” You’re going to need to fall ALL THE WAY DOWN. Me: I can do it. I can. Emmy: Moving on. Let’s talk about lunch. Lunch is very important around here. How good are you at making chicky sammiches? Me: I’m REALLY GOOD at making chicky sammiches, Emmy. I use just the right amount of turkey, and your favorite kind of bread… Emmy: Do you cut the sandwich into squares or triangles? Me: Generally speaking, squares… Emmy: (thinking) uh huh… any other shapes? Me: Well, I tried to make a star-shaped sandwich once. Emmy: Yeah, we all know how THAT turned out. It was a disaster. It didn’t even look like a star. It looked like a HOUSE. Me: I promise I will work on my sammich shape repertoire. Through this job, I will hone my sammich-making skills. Emmy: And how long would you say it takes you to eat lunch? Me: I’m a quick eater. I need MAYBE ten minutes, tops. (Baby O chokes on his teething toy) Emmy: Ten MINUTES? Mama, we have a VERY STRICT lunch break policy around here. You’re gonna get 20 seconds. Me: Did you just say twenty SECONDS? Emmy: Yes, you’ll have twenty seconds to wolf down the crusts I have left over from my sammich. I may also leave you an ounce of juice in my sippy cup, if you are lucky. Me: I guess I’ll have to make it work. Emmy...

3 Comedy Improv Lessons for Frustrated Creatives

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:05:59 EDT

Editor's Note: A while back, an improv theater in Orlando, the SAK Comedy Lab, was offering free improv classes and at least one blogger showed up. Her take-away lessons from this experience are useful to anyone facing a creative challenge. --Heather3. Don't think so hard. Sometimes, it's okay to go with your first gut instinct. In improv, it's not the wackiest suggestions or most outlandish situations that get the biggest laughs, sometimes it's the most obvious or the first that spring to mind. I get caught up on this a lot. I think I have to write the world's most original essay or use the biggest word I can think of when I'm working on a print article. I used to tell my creative writing students, there's no such thing as a completely original story. Just tell your story YOUR way. Image: ClizBiz via Flickr ...

What to Do When You’re Face to Face With Sexism

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:03 EDT

A female programmer who worked in tech in the 80s talks about what has changed, and what younger female technologists can do about the sexism that persists. By Jessica Stillman (Editor, Women 2.0) Compared with farming or carpentry, computer science may be a fairly young field, but women entering tech careers today can still benefit [...]

YouTube Basics: How to Edit a Video

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Start producing more professional YouTube videos with these four easy steps.

Give Us 2 Minutes and We’ll Give You Sales Mastery University Workbook!

Wed, 22 May 2013 11:49:53 EDT

One of our fairy godmothers, Tiffany Peterson, has been selected from over 1,000 applications as one of fifteen semi finalists for the eWomen Network’s North America’s Next Greatest Speaker’s contest (NANGS)! She needs your help to advance. Tiffany is a powerful speaker. She’s the only speaker that we have invited back to speak three times. [...]

Scientific Curiosity Can Lead to Arrest, or to Space Camp

Wed, 22 May 2013 11:48:38 EDT

Every once in a while, the power of the Internet can bring the wrong-headed to their senses and even create a very happy ending. That's what happened to Kiera Wilmot, the 16 year old Florida student who was arrested and charged with discharging a weapon on school grounds when her science experiment blew the top off a plastic bottle. Jill Pantozzi from The Mary Sue has the good news story for you. The event brought up serious issues of race as they pertain to the district and its police department and spurred a flurry of defense for 16-year-old Wilmot online, which included a petition to get the serious charges against her dropped. And we can now report they have been. Read the full story in Girl Expelled for Science Experiment has Criminal Charges Dropped, is Now Going to Space Camp at The Mary Sue. Virginia DeBolt, BlogHer Section Editor for Tech virginia.debolt@blogher.com Virginia blogs at Web Teacher and First 50 Words.

Using Apps to Connect with Employees (Video)

Wed, 22 May 2013 11:30:00 EDT

It's an often overlooked strategy, but Mobile Roadie CEO Michael Schneider says businesses can use apps to communicate with staff on their smart phones and tablets.

Need a Beer? These Ballpark Apps Are Changing How You Get One

Wed, 22 May 2013 11:00:00 EDT

You can order just about anything on your smartphone, so why are you stuck in line for nachos at the ballpark? These three startups keep you in your seat and concession stands hopping.

Entrepreneurs, Politicians Join in a Virtual March on Washington for Immigration Reform

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:57:00 EDT

A group of lawmakers and innovators press Congress to pass an immigration overhaul.

Are You Willing to Get More Comfortable with the Uncomfortable for Your Career?

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:05:28 EDT

By Mary Foley Being a leader can be satisfying but not always fun. Especially in today’s uncertain workplace, a critical leadership skill for women is being able to create positive change, even when it’s not seen that way. At least not at first. The key is to stay steady despite the naysayers, criticisms and push back. Being willing to get more comfortable with the uncomfortable was my first lesson learned as the new manager of AOL’s call center that would grow from 70 to 250 employees in less than a year.read more...

Dear Toddler Mom From Chuck E. Cheese

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:02:17 EDT

Dear Toddler Mom From Chuck E. Cheese: Hi there. Remember me? I'm the one who got hit in the back of the head with the heavy wooden skee ball you let your toddler throw. I'm also the one who gave you the dirty look as you retrieved it from between the legs of another child at a neighboring game and handed it back to your toddler to try again. And again. Of course, your son looked about 18 months old, so getting the ball up the skee ball alley and actually into one of the scoring holes was out of the question, especially since the ball weighs 1/4 of the kid's total weight anyway. And, y'know, motor skills being toddler level and all that. Credit: ikoka. But didn't little Jake look cute while he tried? Yes he did! Oh, yes he did! You kept telling him so, anyway. I'll have to take your word for it, because once I got skee-balled in the back of the head, I wasn't seeing so great. And I also have to say that little Jake is obviously ready to take on the world. Why, while you were on your phone (sitting right on the skee-ball lane, so no one else could use it), you let him wander around since he's obviously able to fend for himself. And fend he did! I watched him drink someone's soda left at their table, play with another kid's toys, and eat a french fry off the floor. There's no doubt the child will be able to manage for himself, should anything ever happen to you. He finally tried to crawl up into the skytubes, and of course, being a toddler, he was too small to reach the next level, or the next that would safely allow him to get up there. This is where your mothering skills really shone! Why, the way you pushed him up by his diapered butt one-handed (because you were still on the phone, of course) and then yelled to all the kids on the upper platforms to "pull him up", was just inspiring. You're raising an over-achiever there, for sure. Some people might argue that the steps up to the skytubes are farther apart because it's designed for kids who are a bit older. Those people are cowards. Your kid had a dream, and you made it a reality. Way to go, Mom! And when it was time for you to go, I got tears in my eyes over the heart-wrenching way you shrieked his name, over and over. "Jaaake! JAKEY! Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaake!!!" Then again, after a skee ball to the head, every noise in Chuck E. Cheese was bringing tears to my eyes, but I digress. Thank goodness you spotted him, climbing on the chair at that birthday table, trying to get a balloon. I have no idea why that mother didn't automatically offer it to Jake, especially since he was screaming and pitching a fit right in the middle of their Happy Birthday song. She must've been too busy taking video of her own child, who is, of course, not as cute as Jake. I feel certain when I say that I will meet you again someday. I've certainly met enough mothers like you at places like Chuck E. Cheese. It's like I'm a magnet or something. Seriously. I only hope I'll remember you, and your darling Jake, when I see you again. No guarantees, though. I did get a skee ball to the head, after all.

How Your Attitude Can Win You Sales

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:00:00 EDT

Being successful at selling isn't about your product. It's about your personality. Here are three ways to harness the power of a great attitude to close even the toughest sale.

How will you spend your summer vacation with your family?

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:39:12 EDT

We'll stay local We will travel out of state We will travel out of the country

10 Tips for Traveling with Babies and Children

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:30:00 EDT

Main Photo: Photo by: Working Mother Editor Colleen Lanin & kids I love to travel, always have. But when I became a mom I wondered if my globetrotting days were over. When I couldn’t find a book on how to travel with young kids, I asked for travel tips from my friends, neighbors, the ladies at the nail salon and pretty much every parent I met. Related Links: Kids First! Go Active! Family Vacations 10 Best Family Travel Apps read more...

How Many Kids? Is There a Magic Number?

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:23:44 EDT

According to a recent study, the most stressful number of kids to have is three.read more

Most Powerful Women in the World 2013 Announced

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:18:27 EDT

Who are the most powerful women in the world? According to the Forbes 2013 World’s Most Powerful Women List, they come from diverse industries, including business, technology, media, politics, philanthropy, real estate, investments, fashion and retail, food and beverage, and entertainment (i.e., celebrities). Of the 100 power women on the list, a large percentage work [...]The post Most Powerful Women in the World 2013 Announced appeared first on Women on Business.