Dr. Desiree “Desi” Bartlett and the Science of Strength That Lasts Through Every Season of a Woman’s Life

Famous Times Staff on February 8, 2026

For decades, women have been encouraged to pursue strength as something external. Lift heavier. Push harder. Burn more calories. Yet, for many women—especially as they move through pregnancy, motherhood, and midlife transitions—that message begins to feel less effective. The body changes. Energy shifts. Hormones fluctuate. What once worked may no longer be as suitable.

Dr. Desiree “Desi” Bartlett has dedicated her career to addressing this moment when women quietly ask, “Why doesn’t my body respond the way it used to?” Rather than dismissing this question, she built her life’s work around exploring potential answers.

As a women’s health expert, author, educator, and creator of The BodyMind Workout®, Bartlett has spent more than 30 years helping women develop strength that supports their lives rather than working against them. Her work integrates exercise science, yoga, and mindfulness into a system designed to evolve alongside the female body, not override it.

Where Movement Became More Than Performance

Dr. Desi’s relationship with movement began early, rooted in ballet studios where discipline, precision, and physical awareness were part of daily life. Dance taught her structure and grace, but it was yoga that subtly shaped her understanding of inner awareness. Breath, presence, and attention became just as important as form.

That balance was tested during her college years when knee pain interrupted her plans. A visit to the campus doctor revealed no structural damage, only a simple instruction to strengthen her quadriceps. At the time, she did not even know what a quadricep was. The gym felt unfamiliar. Fitness culture felt intimidating.

Everything changed when she met Jackie Paisley, a competitive bodybuilder who offered guidance without judgment. That introduction to strength training opened a new world. The gym became a place of learning rather than fear. Bartlett shifted her academic path to kinesiology, determined to understand how the body actually functions.

That turning point became the foundation of her philosophy. Strength should not isolate people. It should invite them in.

Dr. Desiree “Desi” Bartlett and the Science of Strength That Lasts Through Every Season of a Woman’s Life

Photo Courtesy: Dr. Desiree “Desi” Bartlett

Education That Bridges Science and Lived Experience

Dr. Desi’s academic journey reflects her commitment to both rigor and accessibility. She earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, followed by a master’s degree in corporate fitness. Most recently, she completed her doctorate in kinesiology, with research focused on how yoga and menopausal education can ease symptoms during the perimenopausal transition.

Her research did not exist in isolation. It grew from years of teaching women who felt confused, unheard, or unsupported as their bodies changed. She saw firsthand how little guidance existed for women navigating menopause, despite it being a universal experience.

Rather than separating science from practice, Dr. Desi built bridges. She became a certified personal trainer, an experienced registered yoga teacher, and a continuing education provider for organizations including NASM, AFAA, and Human Kinetics. She also teaches at universities such as USC, Loyola Marymount, and Concordia St. Paul.

Her work translates research into real movement, making evidence-based practices accessible to women in everyday life.

The BodyMind Workout® as a Living System

The BodyMind Workout® did not emerge as a trend or a single program. It evolved as a system designed to meet women where they are. It unites strength training, yoga, and meditation into one integrated practice that adapts across life stages.

Rather than separating working out from working inward, Dr. Desi teaches both as essential. Strength training builds muscle and bone density. Yoga supports mobility, balance, and nervous system regulation. Meditation encourages awareness and emotional steadiness. Together, they create a framework that may support long-term health.

This approach has reached a global audience through platforms such as Beachbody On Demand, iFit, DailyOM, and BetterMe. Yet Bartlett remains grounded in education, ensuring that movement is taught with intention rather than spectacle.

Writing as an Extension of Teaching

Bartlett’s voice has reached millions through her books, articles, and media appearances. Her first book, Your Strong Sexy Pregnancy, offered women a guide to staying active and confident through pregnancy at a time when fear-based messaging dominated prenatal fitness.

Her second book, Total Body Beautiful, addressed women over 35, offering practical guidance on strength, mindset, and self-image. With a foreword by Kate Hudson, the book reinforced Bartlett’s message that beauty and strength are not confined to youth.

Her writing continues to appear in publications such as Yoga Journal, Shape, OM Yoga, Women’s Fitness, and IDEA Journal, alongside more than 30 magazine and journal covers. Each piece reflects the same intention: clarity without complexity, empowerment without pressure.

Teaching Across Generations

One of the most meaningful aspects of Dr. Desi’s work is her ability to support women across generations. She recently worked with a mother navigating perimenopause and her daughter moving through pregnancy. Guiding both women highlighted the continuity of care that Bartlett values deeply.

Women’s bodies change, but the need for understanding remains constant. Bartlett believes education should not restart with every life phase. It should build.

A Vision That Keeps Expanding

Looking ahead, Dr. Desi Bartlett aims to expand The BodyMind Workout® into a household name, develop product lines for major retailers, and continue leading international retreats. One such offering, the Radiant Renewal Wellness Retreat, reflects her commitment to immersive education and connection.

Yet her central mission remains unchanged. Strength from the inside out is not just a slogan. It is an ongoing practice.

For women seeking a way to feel capable, informed, and supported at every stage of life, Bartlett’s work offers a steady path forward.

Her online presence reflects that mission. On Instagram, she shares insights and encouragement. On YouTube, she offers accessible practices for body and mind. Through her website, desibartlett.com, she provides resources for women and professionals alike who want to deepen their practice.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your fitness routine, lifestyle, or diet. Individual results may vary, and the effectiveness of any health practices discussed may depend on personal circumstances.

From Contracts to Courage: How Tiffani Barton Turned Public Sector Success and Personal Struggles Into a Mission for Empowerment

Famous Times Staff on February 5, 2026

By: Regal Media Press

When Tiffani Barton first entered the world of sales, she didn’t even know what procurement meant. She had come from a background in magazines, pivoted into IT, and suddenly found herself in a role that involved selling to the government. At the time, it felt unfamiliar, maybe even intimidating. Yet what began as a career curveball would become the foundation of her life’s work, a journey that now blends billion-dollar contracts, resilience through illness, and a mission to mentor women in search of their own power.

Today, Barton has helped facilitate nearly two billion dollars in goods and services to the public sector, scaling multiple contracts into significant nine-figure annual agreements. Her expertise has earned recognition and awards across the country. But if you ask her, the numbers don’t tell the whole story. “It’s not just about the sales,” she says. “It’s about serving the people who serve our communities.”

A Heart for Public Service

Barton lights up when she talks about her clients. They aren’t high-profile CEOs or flashy startups — they’re the people who keep cities, schools, and counties running on budgets that are often stretched thin. “Public servants do so much with so little,” she explains. “If I can make their jobs easier, save them time, save them money, and even bring a little joy into the process, that’s a great day.”

She recalls one story of a man working in a small-town public works department in Florida. Overworked and buried in red tape, he was dreading the months-long process of bidding out a major facilities project. When Barton explained how a cooperative contract could cut through the paperwork and get the job done faster, he almost couldn’t believe it. “Thank God you’re here,” he told her. His relief was visible, almost like a weight lifted on the spot. For Barton, it was more than a business win. It was proof that her work could make a real difference.

From Contracts to Courage: How Tiffani Barton Turned Public Sector Success and Personal Struggles Into a Mission for Empowerment

Photo Courtesy: Tiffani Barton

Shifting Industries, Keeping Purpose

After more than a decade in IT, Barton broadened her focus to support large-scale public sector initiatives that impact communities at every level. Yet the transition was seamless. The product may have changed, but the purpose didn’t. Whether it involves technology, infrastructure, or complex service solutions, her role remains centered on solving real problems for public sector leaders.

“At first glance, it might seem like a big switch,” she admits, “but it’s not. It’s still about people. It’s still about helping communities. I shifted from IT contracts to broader public sector solutions that help communities operate more efficiently.”

Her current work continues to expand her reach, supporting large-scale public sector initiatives that impact communities every day. Barton brings the same energy and commitment she’s always had: the belief that procurement doesn’t have to be painful — it can be streamlined, effective, and yes, even enjoyable.

From Contracts to Courage: How Tiffani Barton Turned Public Sector Success and Personal Struggles Into a Mission for Empowerment

Photo Courtesy: Tiffani Barton

Breaking Through Challenges

The professional story alone would be impressive, but Barton’s path wasn’t without hardship. In the midst of her success, she faced the challenge of her life: a debilitating illness that left her in crippling pain and emotionally drained for several years. “It was like my entire foundation had crumbled,” she recalls. “I felt powerless.”

She describes that period as realizing that cracks beneath the surface, if ignored, can compromise even the strongest foundation. Strong in most places, but with small cracks that were easy to ignore until the leaks grew bigger and threatened to bring everything down. When her health forced her to stop, she had to confront truths she had avoided. The illness became both her lowest point and her turning point.

“I told myself that if I came out on the other side, I would never abandon myself again,” Barton says. She vowed to become her own best advocate, to speak up, and to model that strength for other women who needed to see it.

The Birth of SHED

During her recovery, Barton began writing. What started as journaling evolved into her bestselling book, SHED. The book tells the story of how she confronted her illness, found her voice, and began to rebuild her life with clarity and strength. At its core, SHED is about self-awareness, the belief that empowerment can start when you recognize your patterns, honor your truth, and make courageous choices.

Her book resonated with women who had been carrying invisible burdens of their own. Messages poured in from readers who felt seen for the first time. Many of them had been successful in their careers but privately struggled with confidence, boundaries, or the ability to say no. Barton’s story gave them permission to face their cracking foundation before they crumbled.

Empowering Women Beyond the Boardroom

Out of this experience grew Barton’s second calling: mentorship. Through one-on-one coaching and her group program, Blueprint, she now guides women to develop the very skills she once had to fight for herself — confidence, self-leadership, and personal power.

She knows firsthand the challenges women face in corporate environments. “I’ve been interrupted, talked over, harassed, and had my ideas stolen,” she says. “But the truth is, when you step fully into your own power, no one can make you feel small.”

Her message isn’t about blaming or dividing. It’s about rising. “When women rise, men rise too,” she insists. “We make the world better when we strengthen both together.”

Building a Future of Impact

Barton insists that she’s just getting started. Despite the lost years to illness, she feels more energized than ever. Her vision for the future includes leading public sector sales at a national level while expanding her mentorship programs to reach women across industries.

“I love my corporate job. And I love mentoring women,” she says. “The two might look different, but at the core, they’re the same. It’s about empowerment, whether that’s saving a school district millions or helping a woman speak her truth.”

Her career proves that numbers and impact can coexist, that scaling billion-dollar contracts can go hand in hand with lifting others. But her legacy, she hopes, will be measured less by dollars and more by the ripple effect of women who learn to stand taller because of her example.

A Life Rebuilt

Looking back, Barton sees her journey as proof that obstacles don’t have to define us. They can transform us. From magazine sales to IT, from public sector contracts to mentorship, from sickness to strength — every chapter built on the last.

She now lives each day with a simple but powerful commitment: to honor herself first, so she can show up fully for others. That, she says, is what empowerment really looks like.

“It’s not about never falling,” she reflects. “It’s about learning to rise. And when you rise, you bring others with you.”

Biting Back: Violence, Survival, and the Refusal to Stay Silent in Ruby

Famous Times Staff on February 4, 2026

It starts in the dark, with the kind of violence too many children know but too few books dare to show. Ruby Fairchild, twelve, barefoot, wide-eyed in the Idaho mountains, watches as her mother’s latest boyfriend, Jimbo, turns his fists and fury on the only parent she has. The air gets thicker, the walls tremble, and Ruby does what she has always had to do: she reacts with rebellion, not meekness or patience. She jumps into the ruckus, messes things up, and when the anger turns on her, she rushes away. Out the door. Into the woods. Into the quiet that isn’t really quiet at all, but the sound of the forest living and breathing.

This is where Ruby by Janis Flores refuses the rules. Violence in fiction can so easily become spectacle—bruises drawn for shock value, trauma served up as entertainment. Flores doesn’t do that. She writes violence the way it is felt: confusing, jagged, humiliating, something that warps the air and changes a child’s shape forever. And then she shows us what comes after, when Ruby finds her way to the clearing, where a white wolf waits.

Violence as Crucible, Not Ornament

Let’s be honest. American storytelling has a violence problem. Movies glam it up. Crime dramas fetishize it. Even novels that mean well often slip into voyeurism. But what Ruby does is different. It frames violence as the crucible, the fire through which Ruby is forced to forge herself. It isn’t beautiful. It isn’t cinematic. It isn’t lovely, and that’s precisely why it matters.

Ruby doesn’t absorb violence like a sponge; she resists, reshapes, and ultimately redirects it. The blows don’t just hurt; they demand a response. And that response is where the book lives. The decision not to be swallowed whole. The decision to run. The decision to find safety not in people, who have failed her over and over, but in the wild companionship of wolves who ask nothing and yet give everything.

Wolves as the Counterforce

Enter Waya. White as snow, eyes black and starry. The wolf who meets Ruby in the woods is not a pet, not a metaphor to be tied neatly in a bow. He is dangerous, otherworldly, and fully alive. Yet somehow, he is the one creature who does not harm her. Later, Luna joins him, cautious but steady, and together they embody what Ruby has been denied: loyalty without condition, presence without betrayal.

In a world where violence has been her mother tongue, the wolves speak another language entirely. Their silence is not neglect but recognition. Their wildness is not a threat, but a sign of solidarity. They are, in every way that matters, her first real family.

It’s hard not to see the cultural weight here. In an age when conversations about chosen family, survival, and resilience are everywhere, from grassroots movements to therapy offices, Flores gives us a protagonist who doesn’t just talk about it; she lives it. Ruby’s wolves are her refusal to stay prey.

A Story That Refuses to Whisper

Janis Flores has never been a writer who smooths edges, and Ruby may be her most unflinching work yet. Raised in the rural West, Flores knows the silence of small towns, how secrets can live behind every bolted door. That history seeps into her prose. There is no romantic haze, no soft focus around trauma. Just the stark reality of how a girl claws her way toward survival.

Critics are already noticing. Early readers have called Ruby “a feral hymn to survival” and “a novel that understands violence without turning it into spectacle.” Others compare it to Delia Owens’s Where the Crawdads Sing, but grittier, more dangerous, less interested in redemption than in truth.

And truth is what Ruby delivers. Brutal and unyielding, yet interwoven with the faintest threads of hope. I hope that you find loyalty in areas you wouldn’t expect it. Hope that kids who are born amid chaos can nonetheless find their worth.

Why It Matters

We’re living in a moment when silence is cracking open. Survivors of abuse, neglect, and domestic violence are telling their stories, often for the first time. Books like Ruby add fuel to that fire. Not by preaching or moralizing, but by showing vividly, unforgettably what it looks like when a child refuses to collapse under the weight of other people’s cruelty.

Ruby’s story matters because it doesn’t sanitize the cost. She isn’t miraculously healed. She isn’t spared scars. But she refuses to stay silent, and in that refusal she finds something stronger than safety: agency.

That’s the word that keeps coming back. Agency. To run. To choose. To claim wolves as her family, when humans would not. To look violence in the eye and answer, you will not have me.

Flores’s Reckoning

For Flores, this isn’t abstract. She has spoken about drawing on memories of small-town life where alcohol, anger, and silence ran together. She writes with the conviction of someone who knows these cycles too well. And instead of creating a fairy tale where everything resolves neatly, she offers Ruby a girl who is neither victim nor superhero, but something fiercer in between.

That complexity is why the book resonates. It doesn’t promise catharsis. It offers recognition. For anyone who has ever felt trapped in someone else’s rage, Ruby is a mirror and a challenge.

Biting Back

The title of this article isn’t just a metaphor. Ruby bites back in every way that counts. She resists the violence of men like Jimbo. She rejects the neglect of a grandmother who bolts her door. She refuses to collapse under her mother’s volatility. And in finding Waya and Luna, she claims her own kind of power.

Her alliance with the wolves is not one of submission; it is a reclamation. A way of saying: I will not be what you tried to make me. I will not be prey.

The Invitation

So what does this mean for us, sitting in our living rooms with a novel in hand? It means Ruby isn’t just a story to consume. It’s an invitation. To think about the violence we’ve seen, the silence we’ve endured, and the wolves we’ve needed. To honor the packs we’ve built when blood betrayed us.

And remember that survival is messy, feral, and often unsanitized. But it is survival nonetheless.

Janis Flores has written a book that howls rather than whispers. A book that does not beg for comfort but demands attention. And in doing so, she’s given us Ruby, a girl who teaches us all that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is bite back.

Ruby is available now wherever books are sold. Step into the forest, meet the wolves, and see why early readers are calling it unforgettable.

Sip in Style: Why Champagne and Chocolate Are an Excellent Luxury Gift Combo

Famous Times Staff on February 4, 2026

Gifting luxury is not merely about cost; it is about feeling and experience, as well as the story a gift tells. Champagne and chocolate are among the most classic and luxurious pairings in the current high-end pairing market. They combine in harmony between sophistication and coziness, feast and love. Regardless of whether it is a personal occasion or a business obligation, this combination remains the standard for refined gifting.

A Pairing Rooted in Celebration and Indulgence

Champagne is regarded as the drink that accompanies the most important events in life. Whether it is a wedding, not to mention anniversaries, promotions, and holidays, it represents success, happiness, and expectation. Instead, chocolate appeals to indulgence and pleasure. It is a universal present whose personal quality does not seem to be too much of a personal present. Champagne and chocolate gifts are two products that are consumed together, forming a multisensory experience. The sharpness of champagne bubbles contrasts with the thick, smooth texture of good chocolate, creating a balance that seems deliberate and carefully considered. It is this compatibility that makes champagne and chocolate gifts a sure thing as luxury gifts, suitable for cross-cultural and end-to-end gifting.

The Experience Matters More Than the Item

Gifting nowadays is no longer about simple exchanges, but about experiences. People are no longer impressed by single items per se; they appreciate how a gift will make them feel. Champagne and chocolate do not easily disappoint this commitment. When you unveil a gorgeous gift box, pour a glass of chilled champagne, and eat high-quality chocolates, it is an experience, with a memory that will last long after the party.

Personal and corporate gifting is appropriate for this experience-based appeal. As an individual, it would be better in romantic nights, feasts, or moments of self-bliss. In the workplace, it expresses appreciation, respect, and good taste without overstepping the limits.

Versatility for Every Occasion

The flexibility of this luxury combo is one of the most significant advantages. The champagne and chocolate are suitable for any giving situation:

  • Romantic occasions: Engagements, anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day seem incomplete without a trace of glitz and fanciness.
  • Gift at festivals: The holiday and season gifts are taken to a new level with a gift that is both luxurious and timeless.
  • Corporate gifting: A corporate match used to show appreciation and professionalism to clients, partners, or teams.
  • Achievements and milestones: Promotions, retiring or individual accomplishments also merit a successful gift.

The two-way fit is universally accepted, thus reducing the chances of the wrong preference at the end of the day, but still having a premium feel.

Quality and Craftsmanship Make the Difference

Champagne and chocolate combinations are not equal. The real luxury is in the quality, sourcing, and presentation. High-quality chocolate and champagne, made in traditional ways, will add depth of flavor and complexity and finesse to the drink, respectively.

Details such as the balance of flavors in the packaging will signal skill and good treatment. That is why gift collections are usually chosen rather than assembled. They are aware of the expectations for pairing, presentation, and recipients.

A Thoughtful Gesture Without Overstatement

Gifting in luxury is a fine line between showing appreciation and overdoing it. Champagne and chocolate do not make you feel guilty of being overindulgent. They are sent in a considerate, unpretentious manner so they are applicable in both intimate and official interactions.

This subtle sophistication can be especially helpful in guest-post-safe, noncommittal situations, where the message is to educate and motivate, not to sell products. The duo is self-sufficient in terms of reputation and needs minimal explanation to be liked.

Where to Explore Premium Gifting Options

To get a glimpse of how high-end selections get prepared and promoted, a visit to a Famous Online Wine and Spirits Shop may give an impetus to those in need of an additional dose of inspiration in the field of gift decisions. Considerate curation, trusted sourcing, and understandable information about the products are all are a step toward a sure gifting choice. On this feature, you can learn more about the premium wine and spirits experiences:

Why This Combo Continues to Endure

Trends in gifting change, but certain combinations will never go out of style. Champagne and chocolate are sustained, as they all at once satisfy a sense, a tradition, and a feeling. They do not depend on newness; they improve what already exists.

This combination remains simple and sophisticated in a world where gift choices are unlimited. It is not merely a gift, but also an invitation to take a break, enjoy it, and celebrate.

A Classic Choice for Modern Gifting

Champagne and chocolate are a time-tested combination that cuts across the generational divide, whether you are stocking up for a special event or seeking a reliable luxury gift. They are an excellent match due to their shared celebration and indulgence.

As a product of choice and a selection of collections, wine and champagne gift websites serve as a discerning point of departure, creating a confluence of quality, gift packaging, and convenience.

Balancing Law and Professional Sport – The Dual Careers of Michael Christopher Schehr

Famous Times Staff on January 31, 2026

In today’s workforce, people may switch careers or run secondary businesses, but it is uncommon to find someone who excels in two high-stress, unrelated areas at the same time. The dedication required to head a legal practice generally leaves little time for another full-fledged career, and professional athletics requires the same level of devotion. But there exist occasional instances of individuals who balance both pursuits, demonstrating that discipline and time management can fill the gap between scholarly and physical accomplishment. Their histories reveal how varied expertise can coexist and complement each other.

The law is founded on research, analysis, and meticulous representation. Lawyers spend years becoming masterful at statutes, knowledgeable about courtroom tactics, and establishing rapport with clients. According to the American Bar Association, there are a large number of attorneys practicing in the United States, but few have their own firms or pursue notable achievements outside the profession. Running a private practice generally involves long hours and frequent client contact, leaving little time for other activities beyond occasional recreation.

Professional sport imposes a different type of schedule. Paintball, a physically demanding game of strategy, has become a worldwide phenomenon. The National Xball League (NXL), North America’s top professional league, has thousands of players across various divisions, and international tournaments attract players from Europe, Asia, and South America. Preparing for this level of play requires extensive travel, frequent tournaments, and an understanding of team dynamics. Sustaining top-of-the-line performance requires round-the-clock training and fast reflexes. Not many professional athletes have another full-time job while competing at the elite level.

Michael Christopher Schehr occupies the space between these universes. After gaining a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, he graduated cum laude from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego in 2018. He passed the North Carolina Bar Exam in 2019 and began his career in immigration law before establishing Schehr Law PLLC in Charlotte. The firm specializes in personal injury and criminal defense and now has six support staff. Schehr gained recognition for securing a significant settlement for a client injured while riding as a passenger in a delivery vehicle. His practice emphasizes open communication and utilizes innovative digital technologies that enable clients to track the status of their case.

As he built that legal career, Schehr was also climbing in the competitive paintball world. He started playing in 2007 when he was just a teenager and became a professional in 2016 with the Trenton TopGun squad. Over the years, he was part of some of the most renowned teams in the sport, including the Los Angeles Ironmen, Baltimore Revo, Tampa Bay Damage, and San Diego Dynasty, a highly awarded team. “Paintball rankings recognized him among the top players in 2023, and that year, he contributed to his team’s success at the NXL World Cup. Since 2022, he has won multiple Dorito Player of the Year awards, highlighting his impact in key moments on the field.

Juggling these accomplishments requires a level of scheduling and concentration few people pursue. Court dates, client sessions, and filings vie with travel abroad and tournament preparation. The NXL season consists of a series of national events that tend to coincide with the peak periods of an attorney’s practice. Schehr’s success in managing both careers reflects dedication and the ability to adapt to diverse demands. Legal practice demands thoughtful argument and meticulous attention to detail, but professional paintball operates on fast thinking and instantaneous choice.

The vast majority of professional paintball players spend their time on the sport full-time and make their living off it through coaching or sponsorship. Schehr, on the other hand, operates a law firm that can take on some of the largest personal injury firms in Charlotte and plays regularly in top-tier tournaments. His path illustrates how professional aspiration can’t be limited to a single endeavor.

Managing a boutique law firm requires marketing and leadership acumen in addition to law qualifications. Schehr has authored a book on evolving client expectations, titled Personal Injury in the Age of AI, TikTok, and 5-Star Reviews, released in 2025. The book examines how online culture and technology affect how law firms communicate with the public. That view might be informed, at least in part, by his background in competitive sport, where communication and adaptation are crucial.

Schehr’s story illustrates how careers can converge in surprising ways. The physicality of professional paintball can hone attention and toughness, abilities well-used in law practice. The analytical training of law, on the other hand, can inform game strategy and under-pressure decision-making. 

Michael Christopher Schehr remains active in his legal practice and paintball in Charlotte, North Carolina. His ability to maintain visibility as both an attorney and an athlete highlights a unique blend of talent and focus, showing that careers are not limited to a single definition of success.

Nitric Oxide and Kurt A. Dasse: GeNO’s Bid to Transform Pulmonary Care

Famous Times Staff on January 31, 2026

Inhaled​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ nitric oxide (NO) is a medical treatment that involves the use of a gas that lies between three medical specialties: cardiology, pulmonology, and critical care. Doctors use it to control pulmonary vascular tone, improve ventilation–perfusion matching, and support the right ventricle during periods of increased afterload. Nevertheless, the therapy’s effectiveness has depended on large, heavy cylinders, complex delivery hardware, and the need for specially trained personnel. This equipment determines which patients can receive NO, when it can be started, and the duration of therapy. Thus, device and drug developers have been continuously attracted to the idea of making delivery more compact, simple, and less risky. 

One of the body’s natural sources of NO is endothelial nitric oxide synthase. It goes into smooth muscle and activates guanylate cyclase through calcium, which lowers. The outcome is that NO inhalation leads to selective pulmonary vasodilation in those lung units that received the gas. Generally, systemic blood pressure is maintained because NO is rapidly bound by hemoglobin. In acute care facilities, these features of the therapy can lead to a drop in pulmonary vascular resistance, relief of right ventricular afterload, and improved forward flow, most notably in right-sided failure after left-ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, cardiopulmonary bypass, or decompensated pulmonary hypertension.

Conventional delivery depends on bulk tanks or high-pressure cylinders, gas monitors, and scavenging systems. Transport inside hospitals can be cumbersome. Community sites often defer use due to storage limits, staff training requirements, and logistics-related cost structures. Compact on-demand generation, if accurate in dose, stable over time, and safe from nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) by-products, offers a route to expand access while lowering the footprint around the bedside and during transport.

GeNO LLC, led for years by biomedical scientist Kurt A. Dasse, Ph.D., framed inhaled NO as a combination product: a delivery device tightly coupled to the “drug” being generated at the point of care. The strategy ties engineering controls (sensors, flow paths, algorithms) to clinical dose specifications, so the therapeutic and the mechanism that produces it move through development together. That framing also sets expectations for manufacturing, quality, and human-factors testing from the outset.

Any​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ system that provides gas on demand has to change a precursor to NO, and at the same time, it must not allow the accumulation of NO₂, which irritates the lungs. GeNO’s solution focuses on controlled surface chemistry and scavenging media that remove or neutralize NO₂ before delivery to the patient. The engineering problem is a moving one: generation has to follow the setpoint as flow changes with ventilation and patient demand, while downstream scrubbing keeps oxidative by-products from reaching the circuit. Stability in variable humidity, temperature, and flow is a design requirement, not an exception. 

Closed-loop control, redundant sensing, and alarm hierarchies are the platform’s foundation. Continuous measurement at or near the patient interface confirms the set dose, while upstream checks monitor precursors, filters, and NO₂ levels. Alarm logic identifies the most important faults (e.g., overdose risk, NO₂ spike) as those that require immediate action and interruption of therapy, while other conditions (e.g., cartridge nearing end of life) can be addressed without therapy interruption. Event logs and dose histories are there to facilitate clinical documentation and post-market ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌surveillance.

Combination products draw input from the FDA’s device and drug centers (CDRH and CDER). For inhaled NO, device accuracy and reliability must align with clinical pharmacology and labeling. Under Dasse’s leadership, GeNO structured submissions to address both sides: bench and simulated-use testing to validate delivery accuracy; chemistry, manufacturing, and controls for precursors and scavengers; and risk files that link hazards to mitigations traceable through design controls.

Traditional NO use skews acute and inpatient. GeNO’s roadmap included chronic or extended use scenarios where home initiation or hospital-to-home transitions may be considered. Human-factors studies, therefore, expand beyond respiratory therapists to include nurses, patients, and caregivers, with tasks such as cartridge changes, verification routines, and transport workflows validated against foreseeable use errors. Labeling, training, and UI design are integrated deliverables, not optional add-ons.

In pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and secondary forms of elevated pulmonary pressure, inhaled NO can test vasoreactivity and, in selected settings, provide temporizing support. In surgical programs, postoperative RHF remains a material source of morbidity after LVAD implantation. Teams deploy inhaled NO to reduce pulmonary vascular load and support right-sided output during the vulnerable early period. A compact system that moves with the patient, from OR to ICU to step-down, seeks to maintain continuity without cylinder swaps or setup delays.

GeNO’s clinical development has emphasized collaboration with centers that track standardized endpoints: changes in mean pulmonary artery pressure, cardiac index, mixed venous oxygen saturation, weaning success, ventilator-free days, ICU length of stay, and safety measures such as methemoglobin and NO₂ exposure. For LVAD cohorts, endpoints add right-ventricular assist device (RVAD) avoidance and diuretic/inotrope requirements. The trials aim to demonstrate not only physiological response but also operational reliability in high-acuity settings.

The commercial thesis links portability to the predictable cost of care. Cartridge-based generation and small consoles reduce storage, rental, and transport overhead. Training modules target rapid competency, device checks, cartridge management, alarm response, and integration with ventilators or high-flow nasal cannula systems. For administrators, a compact platform can simplify procurement and broaden availability beyond tertiary ICUs.

The competitive set includes incumbent cylinder-based NO systems, aerosolized pulmonary vasodilators (e.g., prostacyclin analogs), and oral or parenteral agents used chronically in PAH. Cylinder incumbents benefit from installed base and familiarity; nebulized agents avoid gas infrastructure altogether but rely on different pharmacology and deposition patterns. In this landscape, on-demand NO competes on accuracy, simplicity, NO₂ control, and total cost of ownership, not on claims of clinical superiority across all indications.

If​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ subsequent use is intended for chronic or intermittent situations at home, more emphasis will have to be placed on human-factors validation, cybersecurity, and remote monitoring. Through connectivity, clinical teams can receive dose logs, alarm histories, and adherence data. Moreover, integrating electronic health records and pulmonary hypertension registries may facilitate longitudinal outcomes research while preserving privacy. Alongside this, supply-chain planning should provide not only a reliable supply of cartridges but also a clear way to handle end-of-life. 

Kurt A. Dasse, Ph.D. is a physiologist and medical-device executive whose career has been like a trail that follows the shift of complex cardiopulmonary technologies from large, fixed systems to smaller, more controllable platforms. In his initial roles within the HeartMate LVAD program, he was made aware of the right-heart complications after the left-sided support and the operational realities that influence the adoption. After that, he was the co-founder and leader of Levitronix’s medical business, which created magnetically levitated centrifugal pumps for use in adult and pediatric circulatory support. The programs were highly demanding in terms of design controls, crisis management, and multi-center clinical coordination, skills directly applicable to combination-product development.

At GeNO, Dasse applied that operating model to inhaled NO: define the therapy as a tightly integrated device–drug system; design for accuracy and safety under variable clinical conditions; and structure regulatory and human-factors work to support both inpatient and potential extended-use pathways. The platform reflects a consistent philosophy: pair physiologic specificity (selective pulmonary vasodilation without systemic hypotension) with delivery systems that reduce logistical friction. In this framing, innovation is not only about generating a molecule; it is about the reliability of generation, measurement, and documentation at the point of care.

The clinical rationale remains practical. Programs that implant LVADs or manage advanced pulmonary hypertension already rely on inhaled NO in defined scenarios. If a compact, accurate generator can lower barriers to initiation and continuation while maintaining NO₂ control and dose fidelity, the addressable use cases expand: intra-hospital transport, step-down units, and, with appropriate evidence, outpatient transitions. Each step requires evidence, not assumptions, bench validation of dose accuracy, controlled assessments of NO₂ scavenging efficacy, and trials with endpoints that matter to clinicians and administrators.

Market dynamics will continue to shape adoption. Cylinder-based incumbents offer predictability and a service model built over decades. Nebulized alternatives offer pharmacologic options without the need for gas logistics. A combination-product entrant must compete on quantifiable attributes, dose precision, alarm performance, training time, portability, and cost per treated hour, while meeting the documentation demands of hospitals and payers. The discipline Dasse brings from prior device programs centers on those measurable factors.

Looking forward, the most consequential questions are less about generating NO and more about the ecosystem around it. Can dose and safety data flow securely to care teams without adding burden? Can training frameworks support consistent use across staffing models and hospital sizes? Can supply chains deliver cartridges with the same predictability that cylinders once did? The answers will determine whether on-demand inhaled NO remains a specialized alternative or becomes a routine option across diverse care settings.

For now, the case for compact NO rests on familiar clinical physiology, coupled with engineering that aims to make a selective pulmonary vasodilator simpler to deploy, track, and sustain. In that sense, the GeNO effort under Dasse’s leadership fits a broader pattern in cardiopulmonary care: refine the therapy, then redesign the delivery so that more patients can receive it where and when it is needed.

 

Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The statements regarding the use of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) and its associated therapies are based on current clinical research and are subject to regulatory review. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and treatment options. 

Selena Pace: Creative Confidence, Thoughtful Execution, and a Client First Experience at Craft Collective Salon Group

Famous Times Staff on January 30, 2026

By: Emilia Paxton

A Stylist Defined by Intentional Creativity

Selena Pace brings a confident, creative energy to her work that is grounded in thoughtful execution and clear communication. As a stylist at Craft Collective Salon Group, Selena believes that hair should feel expressive while still being practical and easy to live with. Her approach balances creativity with structure, ensuring results that feel elevated without becoming too overwhelming.

Selena’s philosophy centers on intention. Every service begins with a clear plan designed to support the client’s lifestyle, personal style, and long-term hair goals.

Entering the Industry With Purpose and Curiosity

Selena’s journey into the hair industry was shaped by a desire to work creatively while building meaningful relationships. Early in her education, she focused on developing a strong technical foundation in cutting, color placement, and hair behavior.

Rather than relying on trends alone, Selena invested time in understanding how hair moves, grows, and responds to different techniques. This foundation allows her to create customized results while maintaining consistency and quality across services.

Her approach reflects patience, preparation, and respect for the craft.

A Consultation Process Built on Collaboration

Consultation is central to Selena’s client experience. Each appointment begins with an open, collaborative conversation designed to understand the client’s goals, routine, and comfort level with maintenance.

Selena values transparency and alignment. She explains options clearly, discusses realistic outcomes, and helps clients choose solutions that feel achievable and easy to maintain. Clients appreciate her ability to listen closely and translate inspiration into results that feel authentic and manageable.

This collaborative process builds trust and confidence throughout the service.

Commitment to Hair Health and Longevity

Hair health plays a significant role in Selena’s work. Color services are planned strategically to protect integrity and long-term condition. She avoids unnecessary processing and prioritizes techniques that support strength, shine, and manageability over time.

Education is an important part of her philosophy. Selena shares guidance on at-home care and maintenance, empowering clients to protect their hair between visits and extend the life of their results.

This long-term mindset aligns closely with Craft Collective Salon Group’s commitment to sustainable, responsible beauty.

The Experience in Her Chair

Clients often describe time in Selena’s chair as relaxed, encouraging, and engaging. Her presence is warm and attentive, creating an environment where clients feel comfortable asking questions and sharing feedback.

Appointments are paced intentionally, allowing space for thoughtful execution without feeling rushed. Selena believes the salon experience should feel collaborative, positive, and supportive.

Growing Within the Craft Collective Salon Group Community

Craft Collective Salon Group’s collaborative culture supports Selena’s continued growth. Being part of a salon that values education, shared learning, and professional development allows her to refine her skills while staying inspired.

The environment encourages stylists to learn from one another while developing their individual strengths. This balance aligns naturally with Selena’s creative yet grounded approach to hairstyling.

Consistency as the Foundation of Trust

Consistency defines Selena’s professional reputation. Clients know they can expect clear communication, thoughtful recommendations, and results that align with the consultation each time they book.

She understands that trust is built appointment by appointment and treats every visit as an opportunity to reinforce that trust through preparation and care.

Looking Ahead With Creative Focus

As Selena continues her career at Craft Collective Salon Group, her focus remains on refinement, education, and strengthening long-term client relationships. She is committed to delivering work that feels modern, intentional, and enduring.

Her approach reflects a grounded yet creative vision of hairstyling built around quality, connection, and consistency.

A Stylist Known for Thoughtful Creativity and Care

Selena Pace represents the kind of stylist clients seek out for dependable results, honest guidance, and a confident, welcoming presence. Her work reflects a dedication to craft that prioritizes longevity, trust, and client confidence.

To learn more about Selena Pace or book an appointment, visit her profile at the Meet the Team page.

Farhad Hanasab: The Philanthropic Heart of a Beverly Hills Advisor

Famous Times Staff on January 30, 2026

For Farhad Hanasab, success has never been just about building a thriving business; it has been about building a better community. His commitment to philanthropy is not a footnote to his career; it is a central and defining chapter, a deeply personal expression of his gratitude for the opportunities he has been given and his desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. From his long-standing support of cancer research to his quiet acts of generosity, Farhad Hanasab’s philanthropic heart is a powerful testament to his belief that true wealth is not measured by what you accumulate, but by what you give away. This is the story of how a successful entrepreneur has made giving back a cornerstone of his life and his legacy.

 

Farhad Hanasab’s philanthropic journey is deeply intertwined with his personal story. As a two-time cancer survivor, he has a profound and intimate understanding of the importance of medical research and the power of a strong support system. This firsthand experience has fueled his long-standing commitment to the Concern Foundation, an organization dedicated to funding cancer research and supporting those affected by the disease. His involvement with the foundation is not just about writing a check; it is about lending his voice, time, and energy to a cause deeply personal to him. He has seen firsthand the devastating impact of cancer, and he is determined to do everything in his power to help find a cure.

 

But his philanthropy extends far beyond his support of cancer research. It is woven into the very fabric of his daily life, a quiet and consistent practice of generosity that often goes unnoticed. He is a man who believes in the power of small acts of kindness, in the importance of showing up for people in their time of need, and in the simple, profound joy of making a difference in someone’s life. Whether it is helping a friend who is going through a difficult time, mentoring a young entrepreneur, or simply taking the time to listen to someone who needs a compassionate ear, Farhad Hanasab’s life is a testament to the idea that philanthropy is not just about grand gestures; it is about a daily commitment to kindness, to empathy, and to human connection.

 

This philanthropic spirit is also a core part of his business philosophy. He sees his role as an insurance advisor not just as a way to make a living, but as a way to serve his community. He understands that by helping his clients protect their assets, he is also helping to create a more stable and secure future for their families, their employees, and the community as a whole. He views his work as economic stewardship, ensuring that the wealth created in his community is preserved and passed on to future generations. This sense of purpose, this belief that his work has a meaning that transcends mere profit, is a powerful and motivating force in his life.

 

In a world often driven by self-interest and a relentless pursuit of personal gain, Farhad Hanasab’s story is a refreshing and inspiring reminder of the power of a different approach. He is a man who has achieved extraordinary success, not by putting himself first, but by putting others first. He has built a business that is not just profitable, but purposeful, a practice that is as committed to giving back as it is to getting ahead. His life is a testament to the idea that success and significance are not mutually exclusive, that it is possible to do well by doing good.

 

As he looks to the future, Farhad Hanasab is more committed than ever to his philanthropic mission. He understands that his legacy will not be defined by the size of his bank account, but by the size of his heart. He is a man who knows that the most valuable thing he can leave behind is not his wealth, but his example, a model of a life well-lived, a life of purpose, of passion, and of a deep and abiding commitment to the well-being of others. He is a true philanthropist, a man who has not only built a successful business but has also built a better world, one act of kindness at a time.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of this information. Use of this information is at your own risk.

The Campaign That Made Azari Impossible to Ignore in Dubai

Famous Times Staff on January 30, 2026

Some campaigns launch. Others spread.

Earlier this year, one Dubai fashion brand quietly crossed the line from “emerging” to “everywhere.” It wasn’t driven by a single viral post or a celebrity endorsement. It happened through repetition, visibility, and the kind of social proof that only comes when dozens of creators start showing the same brand in their own lives.

That brand was Azari, and the momentum was the result of a creator-led UGC system designed and executed by Yamammi influencer marketing agency.

What looked like organic buzz across gym mirrors, café tables, mall walks, and street-style reels was, in reality, a structured influencer strategy built to turn constant exposure into cultural presence.

About Azari: A Brand Built for Real Life

Azari is a Dubai-born lifestyle and fashion label defined by a brutalist, minimal aesthetic. Clean silhouettes, functional design, and understated confidence make it the kind of brand that doesn’t need loud logos or heavy messaging. Its strength lies in how it looks when worn naturally, in everyday routines, by people who live in the city.

That made creator-led storytelling the perfect growth channel. The challenge wasn’t identity. It was a scale.

Who Yamammi Engaged

Instead of relying on a single celebrity face, the campaign was built around density and relevance:

  • 100+ fashion and lifestyle micro-influencers activated
  • Selected from an applicant pool of over 280 creators
  • Chosen for aesthetic fit and audience trust, not just follower count

The focus was on creators who could naturally integrate Azari into daily routines – gym sessions, café runs, city walks, mirror fits – so the content felt like culture, not advertising.

How the Growth Was Achieved

Yamammi structured the campaign around three compounding levers:

1) Native Content Volume

More than 350 pieces of UGC were produced across high-performing formats: outfit transitions, mirror shots, street-style visuals, and “day in Azari” lifestyle reels. The objective wasn’t a single hero post – it was a persistent presence.

Over the span of a few weeks, the content spread in waves: first among fitness creators, then café and lifestyle influencers, and finally street-style pages-creating the kind of layered momentum that typically precedes a brand becoming ‘trend memory’ rather than just trend noise.

2) Operational Consistency

Weekly creator pick-ups and styling sessions ensured a steady flow of content and prevented the typical campaign drop-off. Instead of a short spike, Azari achieved continuity.

3) Social Proof Density

The execution goal was simple: make sure the brand appeared so frequently, across so many different creators and contexts, that it became familiar. As The Wall Street Journal has reported on the evolution of the creator economy, one-off influencer deals are being replaced by ecosystem models where repetition and peer-to-peer validation build real brand authority.

Who Executed the Campaign

Behind the scenes, Yamammi owned the full creator system: influencer sourcing and vetting, creative briefing, UGC format development, visual direction, coordination, quality control, and performance tracking. The brand focused on product and identity; Yamammi built the infrastructure that turned that identity into scalable, repeatable visibility.

This wasn’t about chasing a viral moment. It was about building a machine that could show up, again and again, through the right people.

Results: The Numbers Behind the Buzz

According to campaign reporting, the creator-led rollout delivered:

  • 850,000+ profile visits
  • 340% increase in Instagram reach
  • 2,000+ high-intent clicks to the shop page

Beyond the metrics, Azari became one of the most consistently tagged emerging fashion labels in Dubai during the campaign period – a sign that the brand wasn’t just being seen, but actively shared.

Bottom Line

In a city where trends move fast, and attention is fragile, the brands that win aren’t the ones that shout the loudest. They’re the ones that show up everywhere, consistently, through the right people.

Azari’s rise demonstrates that when influencer marketing is built as a system – powered by UGC, repetition, and creator trust – hype doesn’t need to be forced. It becomes inevitable.

RxPros Brings Affordable Telehealth Options for Weight Management and Wellness

Famous Times Staff on January 29, 2026

Access to trustworthy healthcare often feels complicated, especially with treatments that may support weight management and long-term health. RxPros.com offers something refreshingly practical: prescription options at consistent, transparent prices that you can rely on.

With a focus on clarity, convenience, and patient confidence, the company is reshaping how people approach online medical care. Individuals searching for tirzepatide dosing for weight management or clear information about GLP-1 therapies may find the platform especially helpful.

The RxPros Mission: Dependable Care and the Power of Tirzepatide Peptide

The idea behind RxPros.com began with a personal experience with how effective GLP-1 medications can be. The team had seen firsthand how these treatments may support healthier blood sugar levels, weight management, and overall well-being. That experience sparked the desire to build a service that provides dependable care to more people seeking the same opportunity.

As interest grows in treatments like tirzepatide peptide and other advanced GLP-1 options, RxPros.com continues to focus on the fundamentals. The goal is to offer solutions that may work for individuals while keeping pricing fair and easy to understand.

Transparency and Affordability: Find the Cheapest Tirzepatide Online

Many telehealth services offer weight-loss treatments, but few emphasize clarity and affordability as RxPros.com does. Their GLP-1 medications start at $114 per month, and the price remains the same across all dosages. This means patients never face rising costs as their needs evolve. For people searching for the cheapest tirzepatide online, this consistency stands out.

The company also offers overnight cold-pack shipping, ensuring medications arrive quickly while maintaining their quality. There are no membership requirements or hidden fees. What you see is what you pay, whether you are exploring GLP-1 shots, comparing compounded tirzepatide dosage options, or trying to understand the difference between traditional tirzepatide and tirzepatide with glycine.

This practical approach gives patients steady, reliable access to the prescription care they need.

Grounded in Trust: Clear Information on Tirzepatide Dosage for Weight Management

RxPros Brings Affordable Telehealth Options for Weight Management and Wellness

Photo Courtesy: RxPros

Before creating RxPros.com, the founder spent years helping other companies succeed as a media buyer. While that experience was valuable, it did not provide an opportunity to build something personally meaningful. When the telemedicine opportunity arose, it felt like the right time to create a platform with a purpose that extends beyond business growth.

The transition required commitment and careful planning, especially when entering a field where many people search for phrases like tirzepatide dosage for weight management or compounded tirzepatide near me. The challenge was not simply to participate in the industry, but to offer a service grounded in trust. Now, the platform provides patients with treatments that may genuinely improve daily life, creating work that feels rewarding for the entire team.

The Future Vision: Expanding Services Beyond Compounded Tirzepatide Online

RxPros.com began with GLP-1 medications, but the team sees a much bigger future for the platform. Plans are already in motion to introduce NAD+ supplements, prescription options for hair loss, and treatments for ED. The long-term vision is to offer a wide range of services that may help patients improve their health in a straightforward and accessible way.

As awareness of telehealth grows, more people are also searching for terms like compounded tirzepatide online. RxPros.com aims to continue meeting these needs with honesty and clear communication. There is also a broader dream for the years ahead. With continued growth and a strong mission, the company aims to become a public platform while staying grounded in its commitment to fair pricing and dependable service.

Ready to Consider Tirzepatide Online? A Telehealth Experience Built on Trust

At its core, RxPros.com focuses on giving patients access to treatments without unnecessary barriers. Their dedication to transparency means no hidden fees, no pricing jumps, and no confusing requirements. Patients can simply receive the treatments they need, delivered quickly and safely.

For those ready to consider tirzepatide online or explore other prescription options, the process feels straightforward and supportive. RxPros.com provides a clear path forward, helping people take meaningful steps toward better health with confidence and clarity. It is a telehealth platform designed for anyone seeking dependable care, clear pricing, and a team that prioritizes well-being from the first visit.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The treatments mentioned, including GLP-1 medications and NAD+ supplements, may support weight management and overall wellness but individual results can vary. These treatments are not FDA-approved, and their effectiveness may differ based on individual health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or medication. RxPros.com does not guarantee specific health outcomes. Pricing is subject to change, and the availability of services may vary.

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