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The Sunday Series (134), with Mark Brodinsky

January 8, 2017 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

Live in your truth. It’s the only way.

If life’s got you backed up, find a way to move forward. As long as you’re breathing then life and some higher power is not done with you yet, which means you’ve got work to finish. You’ve got a job to do. That work is to give it all you’ve got. Everything you have and no matter what has come before, don’t look back, push forward.

Keep on living. Living is giving. For what you do for yourself you take with you when you die, but what you do for others, you leave behind.

What you leave behind becomes your story. Everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (134): No Matter What

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If you’re a giver, it might because you know the pain of life when things are taken away. You won’t meet more of a giving person than Taraina Mccants, for Taraina knows what it’s like to lose. Over and over again.

Taraina was only five when her dad left. A self-described “daddy’s girl”, losing the first man she ever loved was a crushing blow.

“I really, really loved him. I was so confused when he left,” says Taraina. “I actually went to visit him in Jamaica, but the trip didn’t last long.” It turns out Taraina’s dad was involved in some shady dealings, and the law was bearing down on him. An arrest warrant meant he couldn’t return to visit to see Taraina and her sister Teaira in St. Croix, (Virgin Islands), where they lived with their mom. Taraina says her mom, probably trying to protect her daughters, kept her dad at a distance, a distance so far, Taraina believed he was dead.

“I kept asking, ‘where’s dad, where’s dad’, I kept asking for him,” says Taraina. “My mom said he must have died since we haven’t heard from him. Truth is he was still writing to us, but my mom either threw away the letters, or held onto them in secret. For a long time I had no idea.”

Teaira & Taraina

Teaira & Taraina

Life should have been beautiful, living in the paradise of the Virgin Islands. But for Taraina, still living the heartbreak of losing the man she loved, when her mom met someone else, life was anything but beautiful.

“When my dad left my mom immediately started dating my stepfather”, Taraina says. “My mom liked the new normal and the family she now had with me, my sister and my stepfather, but I wasn’t having it at all. I wouldn’t talk to him or look at him. I burned an Easter T-shirt he bought me. My mom took her anger and resentment out on me for challenging her happy family. It wasn’t a good scene.”

By the age of 12, Taraina was out. She moved to the states to live with her grandfather, until one day her dad called. He had come to the mainland as well, unable to return to Jamaica. For part of her teenage years she lived with her real father, but trouble followed.

Dropping out of school in the 9th grade, Taraina went to work for a telemarketing company that sold chimney sweeps. A chain-smoking office with ashtrays everywhere and dozens of desks backed up wall-to-wall, Taraina says she made cold-calls from pages literally torn out of the local phonebook. The company quickly got in hot water and the job didn’t last long. Because of a series of events and red-tape which made it impossible for her to return to school, Taraina instead hooked up with a man nearly twice her age. A man she says was a “con-artist” who convinced her to participate in his scheme – landing her in trouble with the law. Real trouble that eventually had her stepfather rescuing her and bringing her back to St. Croix. But the life lesson changed her.

Sometimes in the darkest of hours, a light, however dim, can be a magnet of redemption and faith. Unbeknownst to Tariana at the time, her life experience would create a path, the first steps on the road to prosperity and rebirth.

During her dark time Taraina had actually managed to earn her high-school diploma, and with that degree complete and back in the prosperous economic environment of her mom and stepfather’s home in St. Croix, Taraina was able to attend college, first in the Virgin Islands. She attended nursing school, but Taraina says the clinical part of nursing school was fine. But once she hit the practical part and realized as she says, “saliva and other bodily fluids made her nauseous”, she quickly realized a career in the medical field was not going to be her calling.

Instead Taraina headed back to the states for a time to work as an EMT and go to college to earn a degree in political science and philosophy, graduating at the top of her class. Always a fighter, a survivor and now a college-graduate, Taraina was laying the foundation to give back like never before. But first, a return to paradise.

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During her college years Taraina had married, (a short-lived relationship), and given birth to a son, Marcus. Taraina says her stepdad, a very successful chiropractor, adored Marcus and did what he could to keep Taraina and her son living in the islands, getting her a position managing a golf-course he owned.  She worked there for a while, but soon realized she wanted more. “I told my stepfather this is great, but my dream in life is not to run a golf course”, Taraina says. “I’ve always been good at whatever I do. I’m very confident and I get along with people. But I wanted more and I wanted to move back to the states… and somewhere hot. I did my research and decided on Pompey, Florida. I wanted to be by the water and so at the height of the housing market in 2004 I made the move, then went out looking for a job and looking for a job… and looking for a job.”

One of the job interviews was for a managing position at the Crowne Plaza in Melbourne. The position would have paid her $60,000-a-year and she thought she qualified. But with no hotel management experience, she lost out on the opportunity and says in a word she was, “devastated”, yet the hotel would play a into a memorable moment in her life in the years to come.

Running out of money and patience, Taraina ended up taking a job running a 7-11, for $40,000-a-year. “I was demoralized”, she says. “People treated you like crap, like the scum-of-the-earth”. It was another life lesson Taraina took with her and wouldn’t let happen to anyone who would shortly come into her life, because don’t forget, living is giving. Learn and share.

Looking for a way out and a better life Taraina found an opportunity with United Group Agency, learning to sell health insurance. In the process she realized that if she simply helped other people everyday, she would earn a nice living. But when the company was bought out by a private-equity firm and the ownership group started down a different path, Taraina jumped ship, as did many of the leaders of that company. Taraina was ready to forge a new path and get back to the basics of helping and serving those that needed it, clients and just as importantly, the agents.

With the lessons of hardship, a world of experience in all types of jobs in the workforce and a degree in philosophy in her back pocket, Taraina convinced the ownership of the new insurance agency to give her a role as a Division leader and help build the fledgling new opportunity from the ground-up.

She also needed to make money… and quick. She convinced her sister Teaira, who also had worked at the old company, to come with her, (giving up sizeable bonuses and renewals). The two hooked up with their friend Mara Brockman and together the three women went to work, making phone calls. Taraina says in the early days the three of them would sit in her living room, which was now in her home in Orlando…and dial. None of the ladies could leave until they each set twelve appointments, (four appointments for each), then it was off to the mall – to shop. Work hard, play hard.

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Doing early recruiting for the company out of an office she rented from a travel agency for $400-a-month, Taraina went about the business of building and give “second-chances” to those who needed a job and more importantly an opportunity to live their dreams, as she has done. She now works out of an executive suite in Atlanta for USHEALTH Advisors, as the most successful Regional Manager in the country.

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She’s even gone back to the hotel. Remember that Crowne Plaza in Melbourne?

Taraina says recently, as she sat in an ocean-front suite at this same hotel, picked out for her personally by the company’s CEO Troy McQuagge, she had a conversation with her husband Keith. Keith and Taraina married in 2012, and she says he’s the one who helped calm down her lifestyle, made her realize what’s important and to focus. As they sat and talked Taraina recounted to Keith the story of how she applied for a job at this same hotel more than a decade ago. The job she didn’t get. But Taraina now realizes that loss led to a gain, for if she had won the position she might not be where she is now, earning well beyond what the hotel would have paid her, getting to live life on her terms and sharing what she has learned.

Taraina & Keith

Taraina & Keith

What she has learned, what we all should realize, is that life is tough. But with perseverance, patience and occasional penitence – after all we all make mistakes – than much is possible, sometimes anything is possible.

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“My family life wasn’t always the greatest”, says Taraina. “And people often ask me why I don’t have many friends outside of work. I say I don’t need anything. Everything I need I get from the people who work here. I love helping and surrounding myself with other successful people who have the same mission and goals.”

Teaira & Jay, Taraina & Keith

Teaira & Jay, Taraina & Keith

“I’m a little cooky. I’m a strong believer in self-manifestation and I actually have sessions with my team where we read self-help books. I tell them to read a book and go out and talk to people and create effective communication, help people feel good about themselves. Good leaders want their followers to think greatly of them, but great leaders make you feel good about you. The things we think about and we surround ourselves with and we do for others is what you receive back, what make you attractive and complement your life. The better we get at being good people the better we get at being good leaders. The company helped me realize that. The company changed my life. Troy is a huge mentor in my life and how I treat people, how to lead and to care about people, which brings out the best in all of us. Be the best person you can be.”

No matter what.

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Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark Brodinsky

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Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6)

Huffington Post: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/)

The Profile: (http://www.talkinggood.com/profiles/MarkBrodinsky)

The Podcast: (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sunday-series-courage-inspiration/id1028611459)

Biz Impact: http://www.prweb.com/releases/markbrodinsky/072015/prweb12862708.htm

Company “Stories”: http://www.ushacareers.com/news/

For more info contact Mark: markbrodinsky@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Mark Brodinsky
Emmy Award Winner, 1996

Ever thought about writing a book? check this out!

Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

Beverlee Rendelman

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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Magnificent Outcome: It’s Just About… Life.

The taxi ride is a long one. All the way from the 9/11 Memorial in New York to a restaurant called Bar Americain at 152 West 52nd Street near mid-town Manhattan. I tell the cab driver where we need to go and mention the name of the restaurant, it seems he has not heard of […]

The Sunday Series (53), with Mark Brodinsky

It is pure and raw courage from those who live through it. It is the inspiration from those afflicted and then from those left behind. It is a living, breathing beacon of  light and hope, from those who find a way to come back from its depths. The Sunday Series (53): Margaux’s Heart It was […]

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