Going Nomad

Welcome to our next adventure, this time we're becoming nomads for the next year or so!

We realized it was not worth it to pay a rent, mostly in NYC, when we're traveling most of the time. For that reason, we decided to put all of our belonging in a storage and travel around going to the different events I'm hired to speak! 

This notion made me redefine the American Dream. Apparently not owning a home, working for yourself and living life to the fullest is the "NEW" American Dream. What do you think?

To participate in the giveaway, leave a comment in the Youtube video before 7/7/17!

Berlin Gave Me Hope

I recorded this episode from Germany during my travels between talks in different parts of Europe. I was so impressed by Berlin that I decided to share my thoughts with you and tell you 4 reasons why you MUST visit this city if you haven't done so already. 

Seeing the incredible transformation that this country went through, from the darkest times, through the core of the cold war, to what it is today, gave me hope for my own country, Venezuela. 

Venezuela is going through the worst social, political, economic crisis in its history, with a brutal dictatorship affixing to power at all costs. Venezuela currently has the highest inflation in the world (Hyperinflation of 1,000%), severe food and medicine shortages and government forces violently repressing its people that are protesting in the streets. 

I really hope one day Venezuela can also become a country of progress and happiness. 

Italy Taught Me Gratitude

This May, 2017, I had the enormous pleasure to travel all the way to Rome to speak at The Festival of Media Global, better yet, open the festival with my speech! The experience was phenomenal, so in order to celebrate, we decided to take a short trip to the Amalfi Coast. We were blown away by the views and the good vibes, but mostly, by our tour guide, Manuel. After spending an entire day with him, singing in the car, laughing with him and experiencing the little towns in the best way, thanks to him, he shared with us the story behind his scars in his head. Manuel has had 3 surgeries due to brain tumors in the lasts years, one every two years. I was in complete shock. What impacted me te most is that he was such a joyful human being. He told us he is thankful with G-d and appreciated every single day of life that he has. Others might have been pissed at life for having to go through this tragedy, but not him. That taught us a valuable lesson on gratitude and we will be forever thankful! 

“Happiness is not a goal, it’s a mindset.”
— Michelle Poler

Materialism VS. Fulfillment

Growing up I used to love shopping, ok, who am I kidding, I still do. I'm a bit of a shopaholic at heart. The difference is that before, I used to do shopping as a way to fill a void I had. I thought shopping could bring happiness, and it does, but very quickly the excitement goes away and the need to buy something else reappears. 

Recently, after facing my fears and working towards a purpose, I stopped feeling that need to shop. I then realized that I was getting my happiness from real places, I didn't have to buy something new in order to feel fulfilled. 

I now know exactly the things that bring me genuine happiness. I hope these help you as well!

Also, don't forget to follow my "Courage Is" campaign here!

“Your worth is not determined by the things you own, but by how VALUABLE you are as a person to those around you.”
— Michelle Poler

Turning Your Dreams Into Action

(In Spanish with Subtitles in English)

Hey guys! This time I'm making an exception by posting an interview in Spanish with Vero Ruiz Del Vizo. She's the Founder of OJO Magazine and Mashup Agency where she leads Digital Strategy for clients such as Pepsico, Smirnoff, Doritos, and Nestle, among many others. 

Vero also works with celebrities on developing their personal brand, helping them achieve a better connection with their fan base on social media. 

In this episode, Vero teaches us about the importance of dreaming and learning how to put those dreams into action. I hope you enjoy her valuable advice!

Follow Vero all over social media @veroruizdelvizo (it is worth it!)

V E R O ' S  L E T T E R   T O  H E R  Y O U N G E R  S E L F

F U L L  I N T E R V I E W  B E L O W

“Doing stuff shows others your ideas put into motion, your values, your capabilities and the impact you could have.”
— Vero Ruiz Del Vizo

Changing the name of the "Fearless Girl" statue

Let’s not ask girls (or boys) to be "fearless". That's just unreasonable and will end up hurting them. Let’s encourage them to experience fear and be BRAVE enough to face it. Let’s teach them to embrace fear as a sign of growth and progress. 

Join me in signing this petition to request State Street Global Advisors, McCann NY and Kristen Visbal to change the name of the statue from "Fearless Girl" to "Brave Girl"

#thebravegirl

“Without fear, there cannot be courage.”
— Christopher Paolini

Embracing Authenticity With Meir Kay

Meir Kay is a Youtuber who is also an Orthodox Jew that looks just like a Brooklyn hipster.

He struggled with his own authenticity when he tried to blend in with his orthodox friends while he was a teenage boy. He was a colorful human being in a world of black and white.

Finally, he was able to find balance between his joyful personality and his traditions. Now, everybody loves him and admires him for that. I'm a huge fan of his fun and engaging videos so make sure to check those out!

Follow Meir on Facebook and Instagram

F U L L  I N T E R V I E W  P O D C A S T (20 min)

D E A R  Y O U N G E R  S E L F  L E T T E R

Illustrations and animation by Gabo Behrens! Follow him on Instagram and Vimeo!

W E E K L Y  C H A L L E N G E

Think about the one thing you've been wanting to do for the longest time and because of fear you've been putting it aside. What is it? Well, today is the day for you to do it. Maybe is about being honest with someone, applying to a program abroad, investing in a new camera, starting a podcast or simply taking a day off. Go for it before you allow fear to come in the way, again.

“To live in an authentic world, that world has to start with oneself. Not in a selfish way, but if your healthy and authentic you can be a light to everyone else around you.”
— Meir Kay

2 Years Without Fear Anniversary

2 years ago TODAY I decided to embark on a 100-day without fear journey that changed my life for good. I will never forget this day. Today I celebrate my freedom, my mental strength and my desire to share my journey with others so everyone can live a life without fear.

“We all have two lives, the second one begins when you realize you only have one.”
— Tom Hiddleston

If you decide to start your own 100-day challenge use the hashtag #the100dayproject and let me know in the comments so I can follow along!

Btw, I just launched a NEW 100-day project on my Instagram so go follow me @hellofears 

Social Media: Blessing or Curse?

The other day I heard a speaker at a conference say that social media is ruining teenagers' lives. I ask myself, is that true?

I honestly don't  know. I didn't grow up with social media!

So, I decided to create this video to give you 6 ways in which social media can be a powerful tool you can use for good.

Let me know in the comments on the Youtube video if you think social media is a curse or a blessing, and why?

One random winner will receive a very cute metal pink LOVE sign to hang on her wall :)

“Are you born a writer?
Were you put on earth to be a painter, a scientist, an apostle of peace?

In the end, the question can only be answered by action. Do it or don’t do it.

If you were meant to cure cancer or write a symphony or crack cold fusion and you don’t do it, you not only hurt yourself, you hurt your children, you hurt me, you hurt the planet.

Creative work is not a selfish act or a bid for attention on the part of the actor.
It’s a gift to the world and every being in it.

Don’t cheat us of your contribution.
Give us what you’ve got.”
— Steven Pressfield, The War Of Art

Embracing Imperfections With Joanna Hausmann

Joanna Hausmann is a Venezuelan comedian living in New York who is making it big time. She not only has a big following that completely fell in love with her through her Youtube series "Joanna Rants" but now she is a correspondent on Bill Nye's show on Netflix!

I interviewed Joanna because she has a powerful message on accepting her "imperfections." She not only fully embraces herself as she is, but she even uses those things that make her stand out as part of her comedy, how awesome! However, she wasn't always this confident, and this is what this interview is all about. I hope you enjoy it :) 

Follow Joanna: @johaus on social media

Special thanks to Tanai Milgram for the help shooting this episode!

D E A R  Y O U N G E R  S E L F  L E T T E R

Illustrations/typography by Venezuelan designer Jenifer Blanco @jenblancodesign

F U L L  I N T E R V I E W

You can find the 30-minute long interview on iTunes as well, look for the Hello Fears podcast and make sure to subscribe!

W E E K L Y  C H A L L E N G E

Make a list of the "imperfections" you'd like to keep, the ones that make you, you! And another one with all the "imperfections" you'd like to work on to become a better human being.

* G I V E A W A Y *

IPSY SPONSORED THIS WEEK'S PRIZE, ONE OF THEIR FAMOUS GLAM BAGS WITH PRODUCTS

IPSY SPONSORED THIS WEEK'S PRIZE, ONE OF THEIR FAMOUS GLAM BAGS WITH PRODUCTS

To win this week's prize you have to leave a comment on the Youtube video, telling me one imperfection you will keep and one you will improve! Easy breezy!

“There’s a fine line between embracing yourself 100% and knowing in which areas of your life you can improve.”
— Joanna Hausmann

Mpowering Girls

Last year I had the amazing opportunity to speak in front of 500 girls at Castilleja School in Palo Alto. That experience made me realize I must keep inspiring girls to become a braver version of themselves. This year, once again, I had the opportunity to speak to girls and their moms at the MPower 2017 conference by A Mighty Lass. I can't wait to keep doing this for many, many years to come.

"One day, we'll live in a world full of brave girls. Not because that's what society expects of them, but because that's what they expect from themselves."

–Michelle Poler

How To Value Yourself With Odette Cressler

Odette Cressler, founder of The Harmony Tribe, used to struggle with eating disorders and self-image issues her entire life, always trying to fit in and satisfy other people. One day, she said enough is enough and decided to get help. After that day, she was able to recover and learn how to love herself. Now, she teaches other's how to stay healthy and in love with their body.

You can follow Odette through Instagram @theharmonytribe

O D E T T E ' S  L E T T E R

This video was made in collaboration with David Ciabotaru, a Venezuelan illustrator based in Israel. Instagram: @dciabo

Listen to Odette's FULL 25-minute interview here!

W E E K L Y  C H A L L E N G E

Just like Odette's Instagram post, this week you have to share a picture that shows your true and vulnerable self. Something you wouldn't normally post. Maybe a picture of you without makeup, or when you're not at your best. I know it takes courage but it is important to sometimes show the world you are real, unfiltered and vulnerable. We are always crafting our personal brand through social media, making everything look perfect, when in reality no one is perfect, so who are we trying to fool?

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* G I V E A W A Y *

In order to win a brand new pair of Rayban Aviator sunglasses, you must follow these steps:

  1. On your Instagram feed or Instagram story, you have to post a picture of your authentic self. You must show something you normally wouldn't. I will choose the winner based on bravery. On the caption tag @hellofears and use the hashtag #HFselfworth #hellofears
     
  2. Go to my youtube channel, watch Odette's interview and let me know in the comments that you are participating. Make sure to mention your Instagram handle!

This week's prize is sponsored by Clifton Eyecare and Englewood Eye Center :)

"When you are scared the most, is when you have to do things the most."

–Odette Cressler

 

7 Tips To Make Lifelong Friends

When I was in middle school I struggled to make friends at first. I knew who I wanted to be friends with but I had no idea how to get their attention or start a conversation. One day, I decided to get over my fear and give the first step, approach them, share my secrets with them, invite them over to do cool stuff and without even noticing I created a lifelong relationship with them. I wish I would've done those things earlier. But now you can! 

Special thanks to my friends for helping me with this video! I'm beyond grateful to have you in my life.

W E E K L Y  C H A L L E N G E

This week, share a secret with a friend, something you never told anyone before, or at least, not your friends. This will bring you two closer than ever and strengthen your relationship. Then, ask her to share a secret with you if she wants to be part of this.

P R I Z E

* G I V E A W A Y *

  1. On Instagram: Post a picture of you and the friend you shared the secret with, include a message about real friendship in the caption. If your friend shares a picture with you, you both will get a diary! – In the caption make sure to mention @hellofears and use the hashtags #hellofears and #hfbff
     
  2. On Youtube: write a comment with one advice to make new friends so you can help others! – include your Instagram handle as well!

L A S T  W E E K ' S  W I N N E R

Sarah @s.cowell

Sarah @s.cowell

How To Be Cool With Lucie Fink

Lucie Fink is a Lifestyle Host and Video Producer at Refinery29. She is only 24 years old and has accomplished SO MUCH! She is not only very talented, but she's also really cool to hang out with! I hope you enjoy the interview and the letter she wrote to her younger self :)  Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @luciebfink and watch her Youtube videos here!

L U C I E ' S  L E T T E R

Listen to the entire 20-min interview here:

C H A L L E N G E

As per Lucie's request, this week you can't say anything bad about yourself or others!

P R I Z E

iPhone Case, White Marble, Shockproof, Rubber, Soft Case, Silicone Skin Cover

iPhone Case, White Marble, Shockproof, Rubber, Soft Case, Silicone Skin Cover

G I V E A W A Y

Follow these steps to win:

  1. On Youtube.com/hellofears - find Lucie's video: leave a comment letting me know you are participating in the giveaway (Like the video for extra points!!) – Write your IG username so I can find you!
     
  2. On Instagram @hellofears – find the giveaway post: tag a friend that can help you stick to your challenge! She has to make sure that for the next 5 days, you're not talking bad about yourself or anyone else. At the end of the week, I will select a random winner and ask the person you tagged if you actually did the challenge or not! 

I will announce the winner next Wednesday 3/1

L A S T  W E E K ' S  W I N N E R

WINNER - MARIAN SILVERATHANK YOU MIRIAM MERENFELD JEWELRY FOR SPONSORING LAST WEEK'S PRIZE!

WINNER - MARIAN SILVERA

THANK YOU MIRIAM MERENFELD JEWELRY FOR SPONSORING LAST WEEK'S PRIZE!

“As you get older, you’ll start to realize that the nicer you are, the cooler you are. The more inclusive you are, the more respect you’ll warrant from others. The more open-minded you are about other people and other ideas, the more popular you’ll be amongst the crowd. ”
— Lucie B Fink

Choosing Your Passion

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" a question that immediately gives us pressure. The thing is you can't find your passion when you're under pressure. My advice? Forget about that question and the need to find out the exact thing you want to be when you grow up. Do what makes you happy in the NOW. Try things you never considered, and those you've always been curious about. Explore. Change your mind as many times as needed. Everything you try will teach you a lesson, every lesson will build the person you'll be when you grow up. I may not hold a position as a graphic designer, an art director or a brand strategist now, but the skills I learned along the way are what make my youtube videos and my presentations stand out. I'm glad I didn't know I was going to become what I am today, otherwise, I wouldn't have all these skills that set me apart from the rest.

C H A L L E N G E

Think about one activity that you've never tried before and give it a shot this week. It could be something you always wanted to do but never did, or something you never thought about! This must be something that has the potential to turn into a career or a hobby (piano lessons, photography, video making, yoga, cooking, design, etc!).

P R I Z E

collar2.png

G I V E A W A Y

To win this "BRAVE" necklace made out of sterling silver by Miriam Merenfeld Jewelry, you must follow these 3 steps:

  1. Follow @hellofears and @miriammerenfeldjewelry on Instagram
  2. Post a short video of you doing the activity you chose to try this week to your Instagram story – not your feed! Tag @hellofears in the story. Be brave about the thing you choose to do for extra points :)
  3. Comment on the Youtube video: tell us what you did and how you felt! We want to know all about it!!

DEADLINE: Tuesday 2/21 at 12pm ET

L A S T  W E E K ' S  W I N N E R

Thank you to all of you who participated in last week's challenge. You helped me spread a message of self-love and positivity on Valentine's Day <3 You all rock! 

Finding Mr. Right

I always wanted to have a boyfriend, but along the years I realized that not any boyfriend can fulfill our desires. So it is not about finding a partner, is about finding the right partner for YOU. Here you have 6 things to consider before settling for someone!

  1. Pay attention to values over interests
  2. Discuss major topics before getting to serious (politics, religion..)
  3. Don't be scared to date someone with different personality traits
  4. Pay attention to his/her friends and family, make sure these are people you would want to spend time with
  5. Find someone you admire and that admires you back
  6. Stop looking for the perfect person

What am I missing? Let me know in the comments below!

GIVEAWAY

Let's have the courage to love ourselves first this Valentine's Day ✌🏻❤✨ To win this Kylie Special Edition Valentine's makeup kit (and Hello Fears stickers!) you just have to follow these steps:

  1. INSTAGRAM:
    On Valentine's Day (or any day before that), go buy yourself your favorite flower 🌷 Take a picture with it and post it to Instagram – you have to be in the picture! On the caption write an empowering message to yourself and tag @hellofears. Use the hashtags #hellofears and #HFvalentinesday so I can easily find your picture.
     
  2. YOUTUBE:
    Let me know in the comments of the Youtube video that you are participating in the challenge (write the name of your Instagram account there as well).

    DEADLINE: February 15th 9:00 am ET

PRIZE

The winner will receive this kit from the Kylie Cosmetics Valentine's Collection 2017

LAST WEEK'S WINNER

FOLLOW SAMMIE HERE:
Instagram: @sam.ffloyd
Snapchat: sammiefl0yd
Youtube: Sammie Floyd

Advice From Your Future Self + Giveaway!

Millennials give advice to their younger selves. Listen carefully!

GIVEAWAY
In order to participate, you have to follow these 5 steps and have a valid address in the US where I can send the prize!

Add me on Snapchat by Scanning this code

1. Subscribe to my Youtube Channel
2. Comment on the video! Tell us one advice you would give your younger self
3. Follow @hellofears on Instagram
4. Find the Spectacles post: tag at least 3 friends and write the name of your Youtube channel
5. Follow me on Snapchat by scanning the code or typing "dayswofear"

 

PRIZE

I'll be giving away one pair of *new* pink Spectacles to one lucky winner chosen by randompicker.com.

What are Spectacles? Sunglasses that record video snippets that automatically save to your Snapchat Memories.

Deadline: Tuesday, February 7th

Dear Younger Self, Intro

Dear Younger Self, is a Youtube series that speaks to my teenage self, and every other teenager in the world. In every episode I will share valuable advice that will help girls navigate their teenage years with more confidence and will to take more risks, try new things and go outside of their comfort zone once in awhile.

So, welcome to my new series younger selves!!!!

I'm beyond excited to have you here :) So get ready because amazing things are going to happen:

  1. Weekly inspiration: Every Wednesday at 5pm ET I'll be posting a video about things you care about in life: school, boys, friends, passion, self-image, popularity, makeup, and other stuff. By the way, I'd love to hear your suggestions on what other topics would you like me to talk about, comment below!
  2. Guests: I will be bringing pretty cool guests to the show, millennials who made it and have some advice to share with their younger self.
  3. Get ready to get challenged and leave your comfort zone for good: At the end of each episode I'll be posting a challenge that will encourage you to become a better version of yourself. Are you up for it?
  4. Prizes: Those who accept the challenges will have a chance to win really cool stuff so watch out for those. Plus, winners will be mentioned at the end of the next episode. Follow me on Instagram for more details on this @hellofears

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube channel and follow me on the different social media platforms for more <3

Women's March NYC

During the women's march against Donald Trump, I decided to ask girls a couple of questions, take a look!