Empowering Women in the Outdoors: Gear That Makes a Difference

Women's Journal Staff on December 13, 2024

The outdoors has long been a space for adventure, exploration, and personal growth, and more women than ever are embracing it as their sanctuary. From hiking and hunting to birdwatching and camping, outdoor activities provide opportunities to connect with nature, build confidence, and foster community. As participation grows, the demand for high-quality, reliable gear tailored to women’s needs has also risen. One standout piece of equipment is the Bruiser Heavyweight Shell (https://www.divebombindustries.com/products/bruiser-heavyweight-shell), a durable and versatile outer layer designed for outdoor enthusiasts.

Women and the Outdoor Revolution

In recent years, women have increasingly taken the lead in outdoor sports and recreation. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, women now make up nearly half of all outdoor participants in the United States. Activities like hiking, hunting, and fishing are seeing significant growth among female enthusiasts, as these pursuits offer not only physical benefits but also emotional and mental well-being.

This rise in participation has spurred a shift in the outdoor gear market, with brands recognizing the importance of designing products that cater to women’s specific needs. Whether it’s apparel with a better fit, lighter gear, or tools that simplify tasks, this evolution is making the outdoors more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Importance of Reliable Gear

Reliable gear is essential for any outdoor activity, ensuring safety, comfort, and functionality. For women venturing into the wilderness, having the right equipment can mean the difference between a memorable adventure and a challenging ordeal.

One of the most critical aspects of outdoor apparel is protection against the elements. Durable, weather-resistant layers like the Bruiser Heavyweight Shell provide insulation and defense against wind, rain, and cold temperatures. Designed with versatility in mind, this shell is ideal for hunting, hiking, and other outdoor activities, allowing wearers to stay comfortable and focused regardless of the weather.

Features to Look for in Outdoor Apparel

When selecting outdoor clothing, there are several features to prioritize to ensure maximum performance and comfort:

Weather Resistance: Jackets and shells should offer protection against rain, wind, and snow, keeping you dry and warm in unpredictable conditions.
Breathability: Proper ventilation helps regulate body temperature, preventing overheating during physical activities.
Durability: High-quality materials that resist wear and tear ensure that your gear lasts for multiple adventures.
Fit and Comfort: Clothing designed with women’s proportions in mind allows for greater mobility and a better overall experience.
Functionality: Features like ample pockets, adjustable cuffs, and reinforced seams add convenience and longevity.

Outdoor Adventures as Empowerment

For many women, outdoor activities are more than just a pastime—they’re a source of empowerment. Hiking a challenging trail, learning to fish, or spending a weekend camping fosters a sense of independence and self-reliance. These experiences provide an opportunity to step out of comfort zones, embrace challenges, and build resilience.

Hunting, in particular, has seen an uptick in female participation. The activity combines strategy, patience, and a deep connection with nature, appealing to women looking for both adventure and mindfulness. Having the right gear, like the Bruiser Heavyweight Shell, helps women feel prepared and confident, enhancing their overall experience.

Supporting Women in the Outdoors

As more women join the outdoor community, it’s essential to support their journey through education, mentorship, and inclusive products. Outdoor organizations are increasingly offering workshops, group outings, and resources designed specifically for women, creating a welcoming environment for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike.

Additionally, brands that prioritize inclusivity in their product designs play a crucial role in fostering this movement. By offering gear that meets the unique needs of female users, companies help break down barriers and encourage more women to embrace outdoor lifestyles.

Final Thoughts

The outdoors is a space for everyone, and as more women take to the trails, fields, and forests, the importance of reliable, high-quality gear becomes even clearer. Products like the Bruiser Heavyweight Shell demonstrate how innovative design can enhance outdoor experiences, providing the protection and versatility needed to thrive in any environment.

With the right tools and a supportive community, women can continue to redefine what it means to explore, conquer, and connect with nature. Whether it’s a solo hike, a hunting trip, or a family camping adventure, the outdoors offers endless opportunities for growth, discovery, and empowerment.

Published by Emma N.

Jessica Freeman: Empowering Families Through Life Balance Coaching Solutions

Women's Journal Staff on December 13, 2024

By: Joshua Finley

Life Balance Coaching Solutions, led by Jessica Freeman, is redefining how individuals and families approach personal growth, mental health, and overall well-being. With a mission to provide compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to the unique needs of every client, the Georgia-based organization is making a meaningful impact in its local communities and beyond.

Combining therapy and coaching, Life Balance Coaching Solutions offers a holistic approach to addressing personal struggles, parenting challenges, executive functioning difficulties, and recovery journeys. The organization provides therapy services in Alpharetta, Buckhead, and Cumming, Georgia, and extends its coaching services nationwide through accessible online platforms. Specialized coaching areas include life coaching, parent coaching, executive functioning coaching, and support for aging adults and their families.

Jessica Freeman, Owner of Life Balance Coaching Solutions, brings over two decades of professional experience to her practice, underpinned by her work with youth, families, and individuals facing dual diagnoses, trauma, and learning differences. During her 11 years with OhioGuidestone, a prominent non-profit in Northeast Ohio, Freeman supported children and families by helping them build skills and navigate challenges. Her work focused on empowering clients to achieve growth and resilience.

Her journey has also included school-based services in Ohio and her current work with the Sage School in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where she supports children with dyslexia and other learning differences. Freeman’s expertise extends into the realm of executive functioning and ADHD coaching, honed through her work with the Center for Executive Function via Healthy Minds under Dr. LaRonta Rush. This extensive background informs the evidence-based, individualized strategies Life Balance Coaching Solutions develops for its clients.

Beyond her professional experience, Freeman is also an author. Her book, Calm and Confident: Raising Kids Through Our Own Anxieties, provides parents with practical tools to navigate stress and build resilience in their children. This work reflects her commitment to bridging the gap between emotional wellness and actionable strategies for families.

What sets Life Balance Coaching Solutions apart is its emphasis on personalization. Rejecting a “one-size-fits-all” model, the organization prioritizes creating customized plans for each client, recognizing that every individual and family is distinct. Whether addressing personal growth, parenting strategies, or executive functioning skills, the approach is deeply rooted in understanding each client’s specific needs and goals.

“At Life Balance Coaching Solutions, we understand that no two lives are the same. That’s why we take the time to truly listen and develop solutions that are as unique as the individuals and families we serve,” says Freeman.

In addition to its core services, the organization is dedicated to community engagement. Life Balance Coaching Solutions hosts free monthly speaking engagements designed to support parents, children, and families with valuable insights and practical tools. Covering topics like stress management, executive functioning skills, and education challenges, these events underscore the company’s commitment to giving back and fostering connection within the community.

Through these initiatives, Freeman hopes to make a lasting impact. “Giving back is an essential part of what we do. By sharing our expertise, we aim to empower families and build a stronger, more connected community,” she explains.

As a mother and wife, Freeman’s understanding of the pressures of balancing family, work, and personal wellness lends an authentic and relatable perspective to her practice. This personal insight drives the organization’s mission to help others achieve harmony, heal, and thrive in their lives.

Life Balance Coaching Solutions continues to expand its reach, ensuring clients across the nation have access to tailored coaching solutions and compassionate therapy. With a focus on meaningful, sustainable change, Jessica Freeman and her team remain committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

For more information, visit the Life Balance Coaching Solutions website, Psychology Today profile, or connect with them on Facebook and TikTok.

Published by Charlie N.

How Natella Ferdinand Inspires a Global Audience

Women's Journal Staff on December 13, 2024

Natella Ferdinand’s journey into the world of YouTube began as a personal mission of healing and transformation. Launching her channel, Positive Vibes Just Smile Network, at the age of 40, she sought to entertain and inspire. For Natella, this platform became more than a creative outlet; it was a way to reconnect with her inner child and confront the wounds of her past. Her decision to share these experiences publicly was born from a desire to uplift others, encouraging them to embrace their stories and find strength in their vulnerabilities.

What sets Natella apart is her genuine approach to content creation. Her videos are deeply personal, drawing from real-life experiences that resonate with her audience. Rather than focusing on trends or superficial engagement, she prioritizes authenticity, fostering a space where viewers feel seen and understood. This raw, honest storytelling has become the cornerstone of her channel, creating a powerful connection between her and her growing community.

Behind the scenes, Natella balances her role as a content creator with the responsibilities of being a mother to six children, including a four-month-old baby. Her ability to navigate these dual roles adds another layer of authenticity to her channel. By sharing glimpses of her life as a mother and a creator, she offers her audience a relatable and inspiring perspective on pursuing passions while managing family life.

Despite the many rewards, Natella acknowledges that being a YouTuber comes with its challenges. A significant obstacle is the disappointment that comes when a video doesn’t reach as many viewers as she hoped. Yet, she remains undeterred, believing that even if one person is positively impacted by her content, it’s worth the effort. This steadfast dedication to her mission reflects her deep commitment to spreading positivity, no matter the reach.

Handling criticism is another area where Natella’s resilience shines. Having faced personal adversities throughout her life, she has developed a strong sense of inner strength. Negative comments are met with grace and composure, often turning them into opportunities for growth. This approach not only deflects negativity but also sets a powerful example for her viewers, teaching them the importance of perseverance and self-belief.

At the heart of her channel lies a passion for motivational content. Natella finds joy in creating videos that encourage and empower, pouring her heart into each message. For her, these videos are more than just content—they are a reflection of her soul, offering hope and inspiration to those who need it. Through these heartfelt messages, she continues to uplift spirits, foster resilience, and remind her audience of the strength they hold within.

Natella Ferdinand’s journey on YouTube is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a difference. By sharing her truth and connecting with others on a profound level, she has cultivated a community built on empathy and encouragement. Her unwavering commitment to spreading positivity ensures that her impact will continue to grow, leaving a lasting mark on both her viewers and the broader YouTube landscape.

Published by Charlie N.

From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Canetha Amour-Porter is Redefining Women’s Success with a Blueprint from Thriving Inside and Out

Women's Journal Staff on December 13, 2024

By: Hunter Thomas

Canetha Amour-Porter has never been one to back down from a challenge. In fact, she’s made a career out of turning her biggest obstacles into her greatest strengths.

Growing up, Canetha faced a number of personal struggles – but rather than letting these experiences define her, she’s used them as fuel to build a multifaceted career as a bestselling author of “The Ultimate Woman’s Networking Guide,” sought-after keynote speaker, and community leader, all while championing a message of holistic empowerment for women.

Now, with the launch of her transformative “Amour Method” program, Canetha is poised to take her mission to an even greater level, supporting high-achieving women in business to achieve the kind of success and fulfillment she’s fought so hard to attain in her own life.

Overcoming the Odds

Canetha’s journey has been anything but linear. As a shy child, she often felt like an outsider. It wasn’t until later in life that she discovered she was dyslexic and has ADHD – conditions that, at the time, were largely misunderstood.

“I knew from a young age that something was different about me, but I didn’t have the language or the support to understand what that was,” Canetha reflected. “I was constantly comparing myself to my peers and feeling like I just didn’t measure up. It was a very lonely and isolating experience.”

Rather than succumbing to those feelings of inadequacy, however, Canetha found solace in building deep, meaningful connections with the people around her. Her innate ability to make others feel safe and understood became a superpower that would serve her well in the years to come.

“I think that’s why I’m so passionate about creating community and providing that sense of belonging for other women,” she said. “I know firsthand how powerful it can be to have a supportive network, especially when you’re facing challenges that feel insurmountable.”

Building Community, Empowering Women

What began as a journey of self-discovery soon evolved into a mission to help others overcome their own obstacles. That transformation took shape when Canetha developed an all-natural skincare line to address her and her family’s personal skin concerns. Armed with her entrepreneurial spirit, Canetha was ready to take her next big step. What started as a passion project in skincare quickly blossomed into a thriving business, allowing her to quit her corporate management job and pursue entrepreneurship full-time.

As Canetha’s business grew, so did her desire to create a supportive community for other women like herself – driven, ambitious, but often feeling isolated in their pursuit of success. In 2020, she launched the Amour Women, a community for business women to thrive and find connection. In 2025, she will launch the Amour Women Work Community – a co-working space for women only to nurture well-being.

“I had this group of friends who were all going through similar challenges during the pandemic – trying to keep our businesses afloat while also caring for our families and managing our own mental health,” Canetha recalled. “We would get together and just be vulnerable with each other, crying and processing our fears and frustrations. I realized that so many other women needed that kind of safe space, too.”

Through the Amour Women, Canetha provides members with networking events and personal development programming. The goal, she says, is to empower women to thrive in all areas of their lives – not just their careers.

Canetha is also gearing up to open the doors to the Amour Women Work Community’s first physical location in January 2025. This luxury coworking space will be the first of its kind in the Metro Detroit area, catering exclusively to ambitious, high-achieving women.

The 14,000-square-foot facility will boast an impressive array of amenities designed to support women’s holistic wellbeing, including a full-service gym, private nap pods, and a yoga and meditation studio. Members will also have access to a bustling event space, private meeting rooms, and a stylish lounge area perfect for networking and collaboration.

“It’s not enough to just be successful on paper,” Canetha explained. “True, lasting fulfillment comes from nourishing every aspect of who you are – your finances, your physical health, your mental and emotional wellbeing, your spiritual practice, and your most important relationships. That’s the foundation of the Amour Method.”

A Holistic Approach to Growth

Speaking of the Amour Method, this latest venture from Canetha represents the culmination of her life’s work. Launching in January 2025, the program is a comprehensive, five-pillar system designed to help high-achieving women entrepreneurs and executives achieve balance and success in all areas of their lives.

“As women, we’re often conditioned to believe we have to choose between our careers and our personal lives,” Canetha said. “The Amour Method challenges that narrative and shows that true, lasting success comes from nurturing every facet of who we are.”

Through monthly group coaching, specialized workshops, and an exclusive online community, Amour Method members gain the tools, resources, and connections they need to develop sustainable habits and mindsets for holistic growth. The program’s five pillars – financial, physical, mental, spiritual, and relational – work in tandem to empower participants to show up as their best, most fulfilled selves, both in business and in life.

“I created this program to be the supportive community and comprehensive toolkit that I wish I had access to earlier in my entrepreneurial journey,” Canetha shared. “By addressing all the different areas of a woman’s life, the Amour Method equips participants with everything they need to achieve the kind of success that truly lasts.”

With the Amour Method now open for enrollment, Canetha is poised to take her mission of women’s empowerment to new heights. And if her past is any indication, there’s no limit to what she can accomplish when she sets her mind to it.

To learn more about the Amour Method and sign up for the waitlist, click here.

About Canetha Amour-Porter

Canetha Amour-Porter is a multi-passionate entrepreneur, author, wife and mother to five adult children, and community builder on a mission to help women thrive in all areas of their lives. In addition to the Amour Method, she is the founder of a luxury coworking space for women and the author of the bestselling book, “The Ultimate Woman’s Networking Guide.” Canetha has been featured in numerous publications and podcasts, and is a sought-after speaker on topics ranging from entrepreneurship to self-care. To sign up for The Amour Method, click here.

Published by Zane L.