Chambless Johnston Discusses the Integrated Model of Addiction Treatment and How He Started His Addiction Facility

Dr. Chambless Johnston from Johnson City, Tennessee, is the founder and CEO of East Tennessee Recovery where he treats people with addiction issues using integrative care.  Dr. Johnston was born in Nashville and grew up in Tennessee.  He went to East Tennessee State University (ETSU) for his undergraduate degree with a major in Biology and a minor in History.  He went to the American University at the Caribbean School of Medicine on St. Maarten, a beautiful island in the Caribbean, and graduated in 2002.  He did his internal medicine residency at East Tennessee State University and then began practicing internal medicine in 2006.  In his work as a hospitalist, he encountered many patients that had addiction issues and he really wanted to provide more options for them.

Chambless Johnston created East Tennessee Recovery to get away from the cookie-cutter approach to addiction treatment that often resulted in patient relapse.  The practice provides a more comprehensive, individualized treatment because addiction is a lifelong disease that needs continued treatment.  East Tennessee Recovery’s integrative model is changing the industry.  Patients are treated for their addiction needs, mental health needs, and primary care needs like diabetes, high blood pressure, and COPD.

East Tennessee Recovery uses an individualized plan that treats the whole person.  Patients tend to stay longer, instead of relapsing and going from place to place.  When Dr. Johnston first got started, he was focused on clinical care for patients, but now as East Tennessee Recovery has grown, he is more involved in the planning, direction, and coordination of the day-to-day operations.

 

How did you get started in this business?

I thought my calling was to become a doctor, but now that my work has become helping people with lifestyle changes, I am the happiest that I have ever been.  Doing this kind of work inspires me.  While I was working in the hospital, I really saw the need to help people with addiction issues and I felt like it was not done at the most effective level.  We started out by opening a small clinic.  Because of how hard we have worked and our success with patients, we have grown to four facilities in two states.  I have a goal of adding 11 more in the upcoming year and having 15 clinics for our patients.

At East Tennessee Recovery, we evaluate the whole patient.  We talk with the patient, and it is a give-and-take relationship.  We encourage them to stay clean and become a better person while in our program and in that way, we can change our community.

Most doctors that handle addiction treatment have a psychiatry background, but since we treat the whole patient, not just the addiction issues, we do not limit the doctors we hire to those with psychiatry backgrounds and hire the best doctors that we know.

A lot of these patients cannot afford treatment.  When I was working in the hospital, I saw that most of the addiction treatment was done on a self-pay basis.  They were often treated as if their addiction was a moral failing, rather than a true chronic brain disease like we know it is now.  We have been able to now convince some of the insurance companies in Tennessee and Virginia to understand that if we take care of this now, it will save a lot more money in the long run.  East Tennessee Recovery was the first facility to take insurance as an office based opioid treatment center (OBOT) in Tennessee and Virginia.  We have been leading the way on that.

 

How do you make a profit?

I learned this early on in my medical career.   We want to do everything for free.  We want to see our patients for free, but if you cannot make enough money to pay your bills as a business or a practice, you can’t take care of the patients.  Our success comes through the services we provide our patients.  We have a very effective and efficient system to treat patients with addiction.  We have doctors managing these patients.  We have case management for resources.  We have individual counseling and group therapy for the mental health aspect.  We also provide the primary care which sets us apart from other clinics.  We have contracts with insurance companies to pay for our services.  It is very hard and very difficult, but we continue to grow with the insurance companies, and we want to work effectively with them to provide the best care for these patients.  As we increase our value as a company and increase the value of how we take care of our patients, it increases our reimbursement with the insurance companies.

 

How long did it take for you to become profitable and was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you deal with that? 

It took almost two years to become profitable.  When we first started, we had self-pay, but ultimately, I chose to work with insurance companies.  I definitely believed in what we were doing and the system we had developed.  We started with a good base of patients and learned what we needed to do.  We learned how to become profitable over time.  We continue to refine our system and how we take care of our patients by adding more services to help them.

I do remember one day that I came in and looked at our profit and loss statement and saw how much I needed to pay to our staff and the little amount that we had in the bank, and that was a day I had some doubts.  But I have always been a very positive person and I try not to let doubts creep in.  I walked out to the mailbox and said a prayer asking for help as a I went.  I literally pulled out a check from one of the insurance companies that provided just what I needed to make payroll.

 

How did you obtain your first customer?

My first customer was a patient who had gone to the hospital and had some difficulties with some other issues related to their addiction.  I think one of the nurses that I knew gave the patient our card and said, “You might want to call this guy.”  The patient contemplated going in for treatment and called that Friday at 7:30 at night.  We gave him our time and we talked to him.  I remember the patient saying, “If you didn’t come here tonight, I don’t know if I would have made it.  I might have died.”  That patient is still with us and doing great.

 

Our best marketing is done by our patients.  You can see their recoveries.  I take good care of them, and they refer others to us like crazy.  You have to listen to them and find out their needs.  We are still small and different from others because we take the time to listen.  When you listen to your patients, they tell you what you need to do to help them.  That is what I’ve always done, and I think that is our best marketing strategy.  We do social media, but I think our best marketing is what we do for our patients.

 

What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?

I had to let a personal friend go from the business.  As much as I hated it, for us as a company, we had to do it to grow.  I always want to give people a chance.  We give our patients chances.  We continue to give new employees a chance.  The hard part is when you know it’s not working out and you can’t let it linger on and you have to let that person know you are sorry it didn’t work out and they just weren’t ready for the position.  You can still be positive about it.  I feel like it is a disservice to them as well our business if we don’t let them know.  Growing for the last few years in our business, I have learned as a business owner the skill of knowing when it is time.  We want to give people a way to improve their life, but if it is just not working out, you just have to let them know.

 

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

It was very satisfying how much we were able to help our first patient and that continues to inspire me to keep building this practice.  It’s also so satisfying to me to see our patients that are thriving now.  I tell many people that our patients are our heroes.  Ultimately the care we give them defines who I am.  It’s very satisfying to see a patient six to eight months later that has completely regained their life back.  I often wish I could take a picture on the first day in treatment and then a picture of their future in six months from then and what they are going to look like.  It is very life changing.  There are many satisfying moments but seeing that patient on the first day and then that smile on their face when they quit using drugs and they have regained their life, gotten their kids back, they have a job, and they have enough money in their pocket to buy gifts for their kids at Christmas- that is really satisfying.

 

What are you most excited about in the future of your business?

I really want to expand.  My goal is to get as many people as possible with addiction issues access to treatment.  That is why I started this.  Working with the insurance companies so they can help these patients get their addiction treatment paid for has been huge.  I want to be in many states.  I want to rapidly expand while still giving this same level of care.  Starting in 2021 we already have two to three other places lined up that we most likely are going to move into.  We are meeting and making connections with a lot of people in other states, and I think we will be able to help show them a way to give more people access to the kind of care that we provide.  Furthermore, I think it is also important to note that we are working with other facilities related to addiction treatment. The goal in doing so is to educate people and communities about addiction treatment and work collaboratively for a continuum of care. That overarching structure of care is a very exciting prospect in the future of my facility.

Sailor Dies in Possible Hate Crime

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

In a shocking turn of events, tragedy struck yesterday when a young sailor lost his life in what authorities are investigating as a possible hate crime. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and ignited a passionate debate about prejudice and justice.

The victim, 25-year-old Jay Fernandez, was a beloved member of the Navy and a proud sailor known for his exceptional dedication and service. Jay’s life was tragically cut short on the evening of June 19th, leaving behind a heartbroken family and friends.

Local authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, treating it as a possible hate crime

The news of Jay’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for justice. Friends, family, and community members gathered for a somber candlelight vigil at the harbor, paying tribute to Jay’s life and condemning the senseless act of violence.

Prominent civil rights activists and organizations have also joined the chorus of voices demanding swift action. 

The incident has reignited the national conversation surrounding hate crimes and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat prejudice and discrimination.

In response to the tragic incident, local organizations and community leaders have come together to organize a series of awareness campaigns and unity rallies, aimed at fostering tolerance, inclusivity, and understanding.

Jay’s family, devastated by the loss, has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and vowed to fight for justice in honor of their beloved son and brother.

As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping that justice will prevail and that this tragic event will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change. The loss of Jay Fernandez serves as a stark reminder that hate crimes continue to plague society and that it is incumbent upon each and every one of us to stand up against injustice, discrimination, and intolerance.

The memory of Jay Fernandez, the sailor who lost his life in this possible hate crime, will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. May his legacy inspire a future where compassion triumphs over hatred and where justice is truly blind.

Disclaimer: This article is a work of fiction. The events and characters mentioned in this article are entirely fictional and not based on real-life incidents. The purpose of this article is to explore the themes of prejudice, hate crimes, and the pursuit of justice through a fictitious narrative.

Dan Hurt: Examining the Benefits and Challenges of Implementing Servant Leadership in the Workplace

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Servant leadership is a leadership style that emphasizes the well-being and growth of employees and stakeholders. It involves a leader who prioritizes the needs of their team and facilitates their personal and professional development.  

Dan Hurt, a cloud computing specialist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, strongly advocates servant leadership in the workplace. His beliefs in fractional sales management, where managers share their time and energy with multiple businesses to reduce costs and improve growth, align with the principles of servant leadership. In today’s business world, where employee satisfaction and engagement are crucial for success, implementing servant leadership can significantly benefit individuals and organizations. 

Benefits of Implementing Servant Leadership in the Workplace 

Implementing servant leadership in the workplace can have numerous benefits.  

  • Firstly, it can improve employee satisfaction and engagement as employees feel valued and appreciated. This, in turn, can lead to increased productivity and efficiency.  
  • Servant leaders create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas, which can lead to enhanced innovation and creativity.  
  • Implementing servant leadership can reduce employee turnover, as employees are more likely to stay with a company that values them.  
  • Lastly, focusing on employee and stakeholder well-being can lead to better customer service and satisfaction, as happy employees provide better customer service. 

Challenges of Implementing Servant Leadership in the Workplace 

Servant leadership can present several challenges in the workplace that must be overcome for success. It can be difficult for leaders to shift from traditional leadership styles to servant leadership. Additionally, implementing servant leadership can be a time and resource-intensive process. Resistance from employees and stakeholders can also pose a challenge, as they may be accustomed to a more traditional leadership style. Moreover, there is a risk of losing control over decision-making processes when implementing servant leadership. However, by addressing these challenges, organizations can successfully implement servant leadership and achieve increased success and profitability. 

Necessary Skills for Servant Leaders 

To be a successful servant leader, it is essential to possess certain skills. One of the most important skills is emotional intelligence. It enables leaders to understand and regulate their emotions and those of their team members. Effective communication is also important, as it helps leaders to convey their vision and values. Active listening is another vital skill, allowing leaders to understand their team’s perspectives and concerns. Empathy puts leaders in their team members’ shoes and helps them to understand their emotions and needs. Lastly, collaboration and teamwork are essential skills, as servant leaders work with their teams to achieve common goals. 

Case Studies of Successful Implementation of Servant Leadership 

There are several examples of successful implementation of servant leadership in various organizations. For instance, Southwest Airlines is renowned for its commitment to servant leadership. The company’s culture prioritizes employee satisfaction and engagement has led to high customer satisfaction and loyalty.  

Similarly, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company is another example of the successful implementation of servant leadership. The company’s culture emphasizes putting employees first, which has resulted in high levels of employee retention, customer satisfaction, and profitability. These case studies demonstrate that implementing servant leadership can lead to positive employee and organizational outcomes. 

Implementing servant leadership in the workplace can bring numerous benefits. However, it can also present challenges, such as shifting from traditional leadership styles. Developing the necessary skills is crucial for the successful implementation of servant leadership. Dan Hurt believes that organizations can achieve increased success and profitability by prioritizing the well-being and growth of employees and stakeholders. Therefore, organizations must consider implementing servant leadership as a valuable and effective leadership style in the 21st century. 

 

Alex Kipman and the Virtual Reality (VR) Revolution: Exploring the Impact of Immersive Technology Across Industries

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative technology reshaping numerous industries and everyday life experiences. Visionary inventors and creators like Alex Kipman are at the forefront of this revolution. He is a renowned technologist and visionary inventor who significantly contributed to the development of VR technology. His achievements and breakthrough programs have cemented his position as a leading figure in the field. Kipman is widely recognized for his work on the Microsoft HoloLens, a groundbreaking mixed-reality headset that combines virtual elements with the real world. He has been involved in numerous breakthrough programs and has pioneered innovations that have shaped the VR landscape. 

Understanding the Essence of Virtual Reality (VR) 

Virtual reality is a computer-generated environment that immerses users in a simulated reality, replicating sensory experiences through headsets, controllers, and other interactive devices. The core principle of VR revolves around creating a sense of presence and engagement. 

VR enables individuals to explore new worlds, interact with virtual objects, and have immersive experiences that can stimulate the senses of sight, sound, and even touch. Transporting users to artificial environments opens up many possibilities across various industries and everyday life. 

VR’s Impact on Diverse Industries 

Virtual reality (VR) has profoundly impacted diverse industries, revolutionizing how they operate and enhancing user experiences. VR’s impact on these industries reshapes how we work, learn, and entertain ourselves. 

Healthcare and Medicine 

Virtual reality has revolutionized medical training by providing immersive simulations that allow healthcare professionals to practice complex procedures in a safe and controlled environment. Surgeons can hone their skills and reduce the risk of errors through realistic surgical simulations. 

Moreover, VR is also making a significant impact on patient care. It is used in pain management techniques, mental health therapies, and phobia treatments. For instance, VR exposure therapy has proven effective in helping patients confront and overcome their fears in a controlled environment. 

Education and Training 

Education and training have been greatly enhanced by VR technology. Virtual classrooms enable students to engage in immersive learning experiences, fostering active participation and knowledge retention. Complex concepts can be visualized in three dimensions, making subjects more engaging and accessible. 

VR simulations allow learners to practice real-world scenarios, such as flight simulations for pilots or hazardous situations for emergency responders. These experiences provide hands-on training in a safe environment, preparing individuals for real-world challenges. 

Entertainment and Media: 

The entertainment industry has embraced VR, offering audiences entirely new and immersive experiences. VR gaming transports players into virtual worlds, allowing them to interact with characters and environments on a whole new level. The sense of presence and immersion heightens the excitement and engagement of gaming experiences. 

Beyond gaming, VR has opened up avenues for virtual concerts, where users can enjoy live performances from their homes. Cinematic VR experiences provide a unique form of storytelling, allowing viewers to become active participants in the narrative. 

Engineering and Design 

VR technology has revolutionized the fields of architecture, engineering, and design. Virtual prototyping enables architects and designers to visualize their creations before construction begins, allowing for adjustments and improvements. Clients can walk through virtual environments and provide feedback, enhancing the collaborative process. 

Additionally, VR facilitates collaborative design, enabling teams from different locations to collaborate in a shared virtual space. This streamlines the design process, reduces costs, and accelerates decision-making. 

Pioneering Technological Advancements 

The advancements in VR technology have been remarkable, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Display quality has dramatically improved, providing more realistic and immersive visuals. Tracking systems have become more precise, enhancing the accuracy of user movements within virtual environments. 

The emergence of standalone VR headsets has eliminated the need for external devices or high-powered computers, making VR more accessible to a broader audience. These standalone devices offer greater freedom of movement and ease of use, making VR experiences more convenient. 

Envisioning the Future Potential of VR 

The potential impact of VR on society and the economy is vast. Widespread adoption of VR can potentially revolutionize industries such as healthcare, education, entertainment, and more. It can improve efficiency, cost savings and enhance experiences across various sectors. 

However, as VR becomes more pervasive, ethical considerations must be addressed. Privacy, data security, and the blurring of virtual and physical realities need careful attention to ensure the responsible development and use of VR technology. 

Looking ahead, VR has the potential to create new job opportunities, drive innovation, and shape the way we interact with the world. It is an exciting time where the boundaries between physical and virtual realities are increasingly intertwined. 

Conclusion 

Virtual reality technology, led by visionaries like Alex Kipman, revolutionizes experiences across multiple domains. Alex Kipman, with his visionary mindset, has been instrumental in pushing the envelope of VR technology. His inventions and contributions have paved the way for technological advancements that continue to shape the VR landscape. As technology continues to evolve, the impact of VR on society and everyday life will only continue to expand. With responsible development and widespread adoption, the boundless potential of VR is set to reshape industries, create new possibilities, and unlock transformative experiences for individuals worldwide. 

Why Reverse Phone Lookup is Essential for Protecting Your Privacy

If you’ve ever received a text from an unknown number or had a conversation with a suspicious person claiming to be a “long-lost relative” online, then you know the frustration of dealing with strangers behind a screen. You might even wish you could run a background check on someone with nothing more than an unknown phone number to work with.

Many people don’t realize there are apps that can help them do just that. Reverse phone lookup apps can be a lifesaver– they can help you verify the identity of strangers online or track a lost phone and save you money on unnecessary fees. 

Whether it’s to improve your data privacy or to track down pranksters online, here are some tips and reasons for using reverse phone lookup services.

The Problem with Unknown Callers and Fake Numbers

Unsolicited calls from unknown numbers can be a great source of frustration, particularly when trying to determine who is on the other end. It might be someone important attempting to reach you, but there’s also the chance it could be an unsolicited scam or spam call. Sometimes, these robocalls are difficult to trace and can leave people feeling violated by the invasion of their privacy. As technology evolves, it is becoming increasingly harder to filter out these types of calls and messages. Taking steps to protect yourself against unwanted calls is a must in order to avoid the possibility of relief scams or identity theft.

How to Track Unknown Callers Online

That’s where reverse phone lookup services come in. Reverse phone lookups provide an invaluable resource for people tired of receiving annoying unknown calls. By searching their records, a user can easily find out who a phone number belongs to and tell if it’s an important work call or an unwelcome telemarketer. With this knowledge, users can choose to ignore spam calls from persistent strangers and pick up when it’s someone they recognize. Reverse phone lookups don’t just save time; they also offer peace of mind.

Use Key Information in Your Search 

Efficiency in using phone lookup services such as Number Tracker Pro can be critical to finding the information you are looking for. Understanding what kind of data is required to get the most from these tools is essential to acquiring quick and accurate results. Specific variables such as a name, phone number, or email address can help you investigate unknown users like unsolicited callers and social catfishers. 

Why choose Number Tracker Pro?

Reverse phone lookup services are helpful tools for gathering data about people online, but not all phone lookups are created equal. NumberTracker Pro is a powerful reverse lookup tool that enables users to easily find detailed information on anyone with advanced features like their phone lookup, people finder, and real-time location tracker.

Accessing the app requires minimal effort—simply create an account, enter your desired search query, and let Number Tracker Pro do what it does best: scan hundreds of public records and match the closest results for your search. Daily updates keep Phone Directory entries up-to-date, ensuring you get only valid information on each inquiry performed.

Furthermore, users of Number Tracker Pro are not limited to searching for information with a phone number. Utilizing a combination of name and location filters, users can also pinpoint other crucial details like a person’s marital status, education, and job profile, as well as their current and previous addresses quickly and accurately. The service offers a credit-based pricing system ensuring you only pay for searches you need with no recurring or additional charges.

Conclusion

Whether you need to identify an unknown caller, gather details on telemarketers, or find address and name records for strangers, using a reverse phone lookup service can be a convenient way to ensure your safety and privacy online. While these aren’t guaranteed to work without fail, with so many great value options in the market today, there isn’t much risk in seeing which service fits your needs best. Try out a reverse phone lookup app today and see what you can learn about your next unnamed caller or anonymous texter.

Rider, Bling, and Born2Dress – The Perfect Equation for Polo Season

Born2Dress, Wellington’s premier fashion boutique, is ready to kick off the WEF and Polo seasons with a bang! At the heart of an equestrian town, the store is brimming with excitement as high-profile riders such as the Bloombergs, Gates, Jobs, and many more come to town. The store is located in the perfect spot for those looking for a fashionable and stylish experience during the winter months.

This season, Born2Dress is stocked to the gills with gorgeous garbs, including show-stopping dresses perfect for Polo parties. With curation from a dream team of designers from the sizzling cities of LA, Bali, and NYC, clients are guaranteed to turn heads and leave a lasting impression as they walk through the doors.

“At Born2Dress, you can express yourself without definition,” says founder Sophia Bornschein, who founded the boutique because of her observations of a gap in the fashion market in Wellington. She further added she wanted to “set ourselves apart with kindness and warmth.”  The store is a true testament to this, as they offer a range of styles suitable for dressing up and dressing down, making every day a chance to feel beautiful.

In line with the company’s mission, Born2Dress is always striving to meet the needs of its customers. The store promises a warm and inviting shopping experience, treating its customers like family to make their fashion journey a collaborative one. From the moment customers step into the boutique to the moment they leave, they will be met with impeccable customer service and styling by its talented and professional staff, who are experts in the latest trends in fashion.

With Born2Dress’s stunning collection of exquisite fits by designers and styles from all over the world, each client is sure to find the perfect look for them. So make your WEF and Polo season a fashionable one; step into Born2Dress and express yourself without definition.

Post-COVID Culture Shift: Here’s How Jake Croman Believes Business Leaders Can Promote Employee Wellness

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

The COVID-19 pandemic spurred a number of crises over the last few years. Most were anticipated, but there was one major issue that emerged that many business leaders were ill-equipped for: employee well-being.

The statistics highlighting COVID-19’s impact on employee well-being have been alarming, to say the least. On average, employees experienced a 45 percent increase in anxiety, a 48 percent increase in depressive disorders, and a 22 percent increase in higher stress levels. As the emotional impact on someone’s life rises, their motivation to take care of their own well-being gradually declines. 

Jake Croman, VP of Centennial Properties NY, believes that the pandemic forced a complete culture shift.

“Company culture has always been a prerequisite to happy employees and a successful business,” Jake says. “But the benefits and support that traditionally cultivated a good workplace needed to evolve.”

COVID-19 created a new itch that higher pay and free snacks could no longer scratch. Employees don’t want — and will no longer tolerate — the old relationships they had with their jobs. They’re finally advocating for a healthier work-life balance, but they’re also voicing their expectations for employers to make employee wellness a company-wide priority.

Whether your company will continue operating remotely or your employees are gradually returning back to in-office work, employers have a lot of work to do to start tackling this new culture shift. Because while 96 percent of executives believe they’re doing enough for their employees’ mental health, only 69 percent of employees agree that’s actually true.

If you’re wondering how you can better promote employee wellness within your organization, Jake Croman believes these are the two most impactful initiatives to focus your efforts on.

The Impact of Flexibility

At the start of the pandemic, many companies didn’t realize they’d either have to temporarily close their doors or be part of a nationwide work-from-home experiment. Only 6 percent of American employees worked from home before the pandemic, but that number jumped to 35 percent, or 48.7 million people, in 2020.

Fast-forward to today, where does remote work stand? Around 26 percent of employees are still working remotely in some capacity. 16 percent of companies are fully remote, but the rest offer hybrid options where employees are only required to come in one or a few days a week. Regardless of the frequency of their work-from-home days, employees have grown incredibly fond of remote work, with 87 percent of them taking the flexibility if their employer offers it. 

You’ve probably heard many traditionalists arguing the validity of remote work, saying that it’s just as harmful to productivity as it is to well-being. Employees will be too distracted or they’ll feel lonely not being surrounded by their coworkers. Interestingly enough, neither of these arguments are true. Remote employees say that having a flexible schedule has reduced their levels of anxiety, depression, and stress and helped them finally achieve work-life balance, thus reducing their levels of burnout. But at the same time, research has also shown that full-time remote employees are 29 percent more productive, and hybrid workers are 4 percent more productive than those with no flexibility at all.

To Jake Croman, these numbers don’t lie: flexibility cultivates happier, more productive, and more engaged employees. Even if you can’t extend full-time remote work to your workers, Jake believes business leaders should consider offering any semblance of flexibility as it has immediate benefits.

A Holistic Approach to Wellness

Even before the pandemic, a lot of companies already recognized the influence physical accommodations contributed to employee wellness. This led to them building wellness spaces where employees could work out, blocking out time during the day for company-wide yoga sessions, or even paying for gym memberships as part of an employee’s benefits package. Yet, physical health is only one attribute of a person’s overall well-being.

The pandemic illuminated how closely tied emotional wellness is to well-being, but Jake Cromam believes factors like social and career support are also all components of better mental health.

Career Support

More than ever, employees want to feel connected to their work. If they don’t feel like work is meaningful, it creates a snowball effect of disengagement and despair. It’s no coincidence that what’s being referred to as the Great Resignation happened in the midst of the pandemic, and why so many workers are “quiet quitting” their jobs. If they’re detached and unhappy in their roles, they’re going to leave. Companies must put even more resources towards their employees’ professional growth and development while keeping work-life balance in mind.

Social Support

Outside of work, there are other social factors that play into a person’s well-being — family being the most significant. You’ll have team members who have to tend to their children’s needs and others who are caretakers for family members. Initiatives like childcare perks and flexible schedules go a long way in showing your employees that you are committed to supporting them even when it includes circumstances outside of the workplace.

Emotional Support

Employers have a responsibility to create a supportive, compassionate environment with the goal of impacting the emotional needs of their workers. Companies should build out an extensive list of mental health resources that employees can access if a need arises. Employers should also encourage workers to use their paid time off and block out time in their day to step away from their desks and take a break.

“It’s time we start destigmatizing mental health in the workplace,” Jake says. “And it’s time we begin transforming our organizations into safe spaces for all of our employees. If we don’t shift our perspectives, they’ll find an employer who will.”

The Evolution of a Champion: How RJ Trickshot Made a Name for Himself in the New Age of Pool

When it comes to pool, RJ Trickshot doesn’t mind breaking the mold and going against the grain—in fact, he’s more than happy to do so. His quick wit and innovative style have made him a true superstar in the online pool community and have pushed the sport of pool into new heights, introducing younger audiences and even non-players to the game. Here’s how RJ Trickshot came to be known as one of the greatest (if not the greatest) pool players in his age group—and why he believes there’s much more to come from him yet.

 

Who Is RJ Trickshot?

 

RJ Trickshot is most known for his famous trick shots and makes a living off of professional pool players. He was born on July 20, 2001, and has two brothers. He went to school at Berkner High School and graduated in 2020. He also holds many wins as an amateur champion.  RJ has said that he wants to be able to pursue playing professionally without having to worry about the income from jobs outside of the pool. His ultimate goal is winning the World 9-Ball Championship because he feels like it will give him legitimacy in the world of pro pool players and help him be taken more seriously.

 

Behind the Shots and what he wants

 

As he cultivated his research on Ball Pool games rehearsing new stunt shots games, he realized that it was partially about actual awareness and mostly about mental capacity, which he acquired well from it. Present focusing on playing for large competitions like the Mosconi Cup and WPA. His focus is on growing this promising career by becoming the best possible player that he can be while still managing to have a life outside of the pool. I’ve got dreams, said Mr. Trickshot with a smile on his face. I’m not going to give up.

 

Tips for Newcomers

 

When zahidul first started trying trick shots, it was all new to him. If you’re thinking about getting into it, just relax and have fun with it. There’s no need to take yourself too seriously. Nowadays, some people create setups to shoot from outrageous positions on the table but at first, when I started out, I would just work my way around from one side of the table to another before finding a shot that could be done “zahidul said”. He wants his legacy to inspire others by showing them what can be accomplished through hard work.  The world has changed a lot since he became interested in the pool. Before, there were only two types of pool players – those who play casually, and those who took it more seriously.

 

Follow his Journey on Instagram and Youtube

National Law Firm Honors America’s Teachers with 4th Annual ‘Teacher of the Month’ Initiative

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys Awards Five Teacher Monthly with $500

 

To honor teachers across the country for their commitment and hard work in making a positive difference in the lives of their students, Alabama-headquartered law firm Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is proud to announce the fourth edition of their national Teacher of the Month initiative.

 

“As a father of three, nothing is more important to me than the future of our country’s next generation,” states Alexander Shunnarah, President and CEO of Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys. “Through the Teacher of the Month campaign, our goal is to honor and highlight the dedication of educators across the United States. Teachers are the building blocks for our children’s success, and my law firm is proud to support their hard work each year through this token of our appreciation.”

 

The tremendously successful campaign has received thousands of nominations and rewarded over 80 teachers around the country over the last three years. The 4th Annual ‘Alexander Shunnarah Teacher of the Month’ campaign will recognize five teachers each month with nominations accepted from every state and region. The deserving teachers will be named Alexander Shunnarah’s ‘Teacher of the Month,’ receive a $500 VISA gift card to purchase supplies and resources for their classrooms, and have their photo featured on one of Alexander Shunnarah’s digital billboards for the day.

 

Across the Southeast, Alexander Shunnarah is known as the “Billboard King” with thousands of billboards lining the interstates and highways. By ‘sharing’ his billboard with educators and teachers across the country, Alexander Shunnarah hopes to celebrate them in a unique and impactful way.

 

“When I think about how excited I was to receive this award, my heart is overwhelmed with joy to this day,” states Kathryn Fluker, Teacher of the Month honoree from Green Acres Middle School in Birmingham, Alabama. “If I can make a positive difference for just one child in the course of my day at work, then I am a proud librarian. I am always inspired by the students that I teach. They are truly my reason for coming to work. To be recognized for doing something positive to reach our students was truly an honor.”

 

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys has prioritized giving back to the community since the firm’s inception in 2001. Two decades later, in 2021, the firm officially launched its national expansion with over 20 offices across 9 states. With this growth came a redefined passion for connecting with clients and serving communities across the country.

 

“Last year marked twenty years of Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys and while our values have remained consistent, our scale and scope have expanded to best serve the incredible people we represent,” states Alexander Shunnarah. “As the firm expands nationally, it’s time our community impact does, too. I am so proud of this campaign and the opportunity to highlight the committed teachers across the country that are shaping our children’s future.”

 

About Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is an Alabama-based personal injury law firm headed and owned by world-renowned attorney Alexander Shunnarah. The firm has over 500 qualified and experienced attorneys and staff members vast in handling all types of claims for injured clients. The firm consistently recovers substantial settlements in lawsuits involving personal injury, auto accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, social security disability, pharmaceutical litigation, drug recalls, medical devices, and mass torts throughout the United States.

 

The award-winning firm has represented over 60,000 clients and has since recovered more than $1 billion on their behalf. The company takes great satisfaction in offering top-notch legal counsel and superior client representation.

Visit https://shunnarah.com/ for more information on the firm and https://shunnarah.com/teacher-of-the-month/ for more on the teacher of the month initiative.

A Discussion with John Lopez, Director of Operations for GCH Long Block Racing, About Motivation, Leadership, and the Importance of Family

A resident of Los Angeles, California, John Lopez is Master Machinist and the Director of Operations for GCH Long Block Racing, a company built by previous generations of the family and handed down to John and Gabe by their father. Originally a shop that built custom hot rods, GCH Long Block Racing has evolved in its business model since its inception in the 1970’s and now builds Subaru engines and sells them to Subaru owners, mechanics, and other Subaru enthusiasts. 

John Lopez attended the WASC, where he earned his State Academic Credited Achievements as a State-Certified Master Machinist. He is viewed by his peers as an expert in his chosen field.

Why did you create your own business?

Although I didn’t create the business, it has been in my family for generations. I inherited the running of GCH Long Block Racing as a legacy, and the trust my family has placed in me to make sure it not only survives but thrives and expands is something I take tremendously seriously. Now, as Director of Operations, I believe that I’ve brought experience and hard-earned credibility to my role. In fact, under mine and Gabe’s stewardship, production has been brought up by as much as 35%. I also credit the business skills that I’ve accrued in my career for making the company more profitable, as well as more efficient and customer service-oriented. Additionally, I personally oversee our work on every engine, so each and every one of our customers gets the best experience possible.

What do you love the most about the industry you are in?

Knowing that I have built thousands of engines in thousands of vehicles makes me feel amazing!

What keeps you motivated?

My family keeps me going. Knowing that my father wanted us to inherit the business and trained us for it definitely motivates me. Building the best engines, running the business, and keeping my team happy and feeling fulfilled, all the while keeping the customers happy has been something of a challenge. But when you’re in the business of making people happy, it’s difficult not to be happy, as well. 

How has your company grown from its early days to now?

The company first started as Covina Engine Rebuilding back in the 70’s. We built hot rods back then. We now build high-tech, high-performance Subaru engines, so it’s changed and grown quite a bit. 

If you could change one thing in the beginning of your career what would it be?

The only thing I regret is that I wish I would’ve paid more attention to certain things when I was a kid.

Who has been your role model and why?

My father has been my role model, both in business and in life. I truly value and treasure remembering the lessons he taught me.

What makes you a successful leader?

I believe that being a better student has made me a better leader. Leaders are not born, they are made. Leaders pay attention to other voices, decide the best course of action, then they take the first steps for others to follow. I do my best to observe this model for leadership.

What is your biggest accomplishment? 

GCH Long Block Racing once built an engine for a flying car on the other side of the world. That was a great achievement, and the magnitude of the job shows just how much the client trusted us.

What was the hardest obstacle you have overcome? 

I have had many hard obstacles in life, but we all have. So, when life knocks you down, GET UP! Some may take longer to recover, but it is monumentally important to get up!

What is one piece of advice you have never forgotten?

My dad, who has been my biggest inspiration, once told me: “Son, there’s always somebody better than you.” Implicit in that statement is accepting the things in life you cannot change.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to others? 

It’s always wise to remain humble as possible. Also, no one ever went wrong observing the Golden Rule: “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

What is the biggest life lesson you learned?

As we grow, so does the company. So I would say the biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is if you’re looking in the rear-view mirror, you’re never going to move forward.

Outside of work, what defines you as a person? 

Outside of work, I am a loving husband, father, son, and brother. I enjoy helping others, flying planes, driving my Subaru, and leading by example.

Where do you see you and your company in five years? 

I see us achieving great success. Currently, I’m quietly looking around for investors in order to facilitate our continued growth. Eventually, I want to put GCH Long Block Racing on the public market. It is my great hope that one day our stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Although it may take a few months to put together, I’m planning our initial public offering.

Explain the proudest day of your professional life. 

Even though I couldn’t see it at the time, it was the day that the company was passed down to me. That was the proudest day of my professional life.