As most of you know, my abilities in the kitchen are quite limited so I decided to take my daughters out to eat. Five minutes after we had been seated, a large man and his four children were seated at the table beside us. Within minutes, the father started chastising his son about the “C” he had received in band on his report card. In a very loud and aggressive voice, the man was going on and on about how this would affect his son’s overall GPA, eligibility to play sports, keep him out to the Jr. National Honors Society, etc.

He continued to talk about competition and how you’re either a winner or loser in this world; and being a loser is unacceptable. The father was being verbally disrespectful to his son, the teachers, and the other students his son was involved with at school; not to mention those of us in the restaurant who had to listen to his “stinkin thinkin.”

If this wasn’t already uncomfortable and awkward, when the father told his son to physically hit anyone who gets in his way or was distracting and annoying him, my blood started to boil. At this point the server approached him and the father shifted gears; but I was still upset inside.

I felt I needed to say something; but what could I say to an angry 300 pound bully? I was at a total loss. What struck me odd was that his children didn’t seem shaken by his actions. I grieved at the thought of what type of adults those four children would grow up to be being subjected to that type of behavior.

So I did the only thing within my power. I turned it into a teaching moment for my three daughters about little boys in men’s bodies, attitude, and how to view competition in life.

Competition can be viewed as either constructive or destruction. It’s entirely up to you as to which attitude you choose to adopt. Your attitude is formed through your association with coaches, family, friends, and the people with whom you compete. Notice I did not say “people you compete against.”

When you compete with people, the environment is positive, healthy, constructive and encourages cooperation. Friendly relationships are created and there is mutual respect. Care, empathy, and consideration are present. You are self-reflective and focused on learning and improving yourself. You are in competition only with yourself and are striving for individual excellence. Your success is not defined by the end result (who is crowned).

When you compete against others, you immediately start focusing on the other contestants. Your energy shifts to a negative, unhealthy, or destructive space. Taking out the competition either through mental games or verbal confrontations is typical. Fear, hostility, anger, jealousy, envy, and unethical behaviors are present in environments where the only focus is on winning the overall title. The lasting effects from a negative attitude of competition are a lack of respect for people and poor character development. The father we encountered in the restaurant is a perfect example of negative competition. Unfortunately, I see it all too often on sports fields, cheer and dance competitions, and in pageantry.

Competition, in and of itself, is neither good nor bad. It is a vehicle for potential growth and success. Everyone needs to learn how to handle success and failure. The younger, the better. As a matter of fact, we learn more from our “failures” than we do from when things are always going our way and we are “winning.”

It all starts with you. Every word that comes from your mouth; and every action you do or fail to do sets an example for everyone around you. Consciously make a decision to focus on constructive thoughts, words and action.

As a very goal oriented, competitive and driven person, I frequently “check in” with my attitude. I wish I could say it was perfect, but it is not. One great thing about aging is that it is easier for me to keep the big picture in mind and to focus on constructive ways of getting better. My key is I never stop growing and learning. I use competition to bring out the best in me; and I have a very good time doing it.

“Live daringly, boldly, fearlessly. Taste the relish to be found in competition - in having put forth the best within you”
Henry J. Kaiser

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).
She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.
She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

We are a society who loves to watch the television. We watch to be entertained, inspired, educated and escape from the daily routine of our life. Maybe that’s why pageants and TV are a natural fit for each other.

With all the filming effects, camera angles, and editing, television can make events and people smaller or bigger than life. I totally understand contestants’ and parents’ apprehension when they first find out the pageant they are competing in is being filmed for television. After all, most of what the media focuses on is the isolated, over the top situation. It’s not representational of the pageant world as a whole.

There are a few keys points to keep in mind when the TV crew is around. They are going to follow and focus on events and contestants who will draw people into watching the show. The network doesn’t care about who wins the pageant. Their focus is to give their demographic audience a show worth watching.

If it’s drama they want, they will seek out the “drama queen.” If it is to inspire, they will find the person with the most compelling story. The television network has their focus, and the pageant system has theirs. The two are separate worlds.

So don’t think because the cameras, or the media, are following one contestant that she is the choice of the judges and going to win the pageant. Do not let the presence of the camera crew play with your head. Most of the time, the winner is completely off the media’s radar screen.

Always be yourself. If you start thinking you have to act a certain way or say certain things, you’re flirting with disaster. Stay focused on who you are, your message and show them the class act lady you are. It’s what you say and do when no one is watching that reveals your true character.

Hopefully, the camera will be filming at that moment, and finally the world can see the truth about what draws people to the pageant stage. It’s achievement, friendship, self expression, service to others, personal growth, and opportunity all wrapped up and topped with a pretty crown. The crown is just the bow to the meaningful gift wrapped underneath.

Be the change you want to see happen in the way pageants are portrayed on television. It starts one contestant at a time.

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Special for the Pageant Princess or Queen in your life for $59 (+$12 S&H). An $89 value when purchased separately.

Only 3 left!

Receive my 60 minute training DVD Take The Stage, the Pageant Planner and a set of 12 interview cards for $59 (+$12 S&H). Individually, these items cost $89.

This is an affordable training kit for the pageant princess or queen in your life.

WTP Take The Stage Training DVD

The Winning Through Pageantry Take The Stage™ training DVD is a must have training tool for natural beauty pageants. The depth of information shared in this video will further polish your on stage presence.

Remember, the judges cast their final vote when you are on stage in your evening gown. Your overall stage presence and appearance will determine your final placement.

In this 60-minute DVD, you will learn:

• proper posture and alignment,
• foot positioning,
• timing of your turns,
• multiple walking patterns,
• stage presence,
• microphone etiquette,
• Numerous tips as Rhonda demonstrates all of these techniques.

The modeling style taught in this video will work for those contestants competing in the following natural pageant systems:

• Miss American Coed (MAC),
• National American Miss (NaMiss),
• Miss America,
• America's Outstanding Teen,
• Miss Teen USA,
• Miss USA,
• Mrs. America,
• Mrs. United States,
• Teen, Miss and Mrs. International,
• America's National Teenager (Antso),
• American Royal Beauties,
• Any of the numerous systems that follow the standards of a natural pageant.

Contestants who are brand new to pageantry or have done a couple pageants in the past; and those who do not have pageant preparation resources close to them will benefit most from this DVD. Even if you feel confident in your modeling skills, the numerous tips shared in this DVD will take your onstage presence to the next level.
Please allow up to 14 days to receive your DVD. This is being shipped from a separate vendor. The DVD is readable in all countries around the world but should you receive a defective DVD, a replacement one will be sent.

The WTP Pageant Planner

The Winning Through Pageantry Pageant Planner from Holdon contains organizational pages for logging and tracking 100 pageant related events. Each form records Event Details, Contact Info, Event Expenses, and Post-Event Info. There is also an Income Management Section to record payment details.
Now logging & tracking your pageant-related event details is easy!

• High-quality product
• 8.5" x 11"
• Finished coil-bound spine
• Vinyl front and back covers for durability

What's Inside...
Contact Page

• Your contact information
• Important pageant contacts (i.e. - coach, director, salon, etc.)
• Other contact information

Live Performance Forms

• Logging & tracking forms to track up to 100 pageant-related events (i.e. - consultations, media events, autograph signings, etc.)
• Log event requirements (i.e. - crown & banner, opening number wardrobe, script, etc.)
• Record all of your event expenses and mileage for tax purposes
• Post Event area (i.e. - what you wore, who you met, guests, etc.)

Income & Reimbursement Management
Record income & reimbursement details (Pageant/Event Name, Event Date, Payment, etc.)

Pageant Target List
Target Pageants, know special requirements, competition, categories, entry fees, etc.

Pageant Contacts
A section dedicated to Pageant Industry professionals you wish to keep in contact with

Notes Section

• Keep your notes handy and accessible
• Add any thoughts, suggestions or ideas

Calendar Section

• 12-month, day-by-day, fill-in calendar section (non-time sensitive, fill-in as you go)
• 24-month quick-view calendar section

Storage Pockets

• Promo Material Pocket to hold self-promotional material that you can pass around (i.e. - promo postcards, headshots, flyers, etc.)
• Notes Pocket to store any speeches, top-5 question notes, etc.

The WTP Interview Card Set

What kind of questions will the judges ask me in interview?
What if I don't have an answer?

The ability to answer questions about you, your family, platform, goals, community and pop culture in a clear way is an important life skill. The more practice you have in conversing with people, the better your speaking skills will become.

Over 1000 contestants from ages 7 to 80 around the world have used these cards and reported back to me that they were confident and prepared for their pageant interview. Many of my clients receive the highest interview scores.

As a contestant and judge, these are real questions that I have asked, been asked, or heard other judges ask in the interview room. I know they are effective and relevant because my clients and pageant family on Facebook have told me several times that they have experienced other pageant coaches and judges using my cards. By the way, I take this as a compliment, not a threat :).
Outstanding features of this 12 card set includes:</ p>

• Over 200 questions covering 12 diverse subjects. Each card has questions dedicated to one topic. For example, there are 56 questions on the "favorites" card.
• The back side is blank so you can jot down your ideas for answers.
• Being the size of a recipe card, they are easy to carry and you can practice anywhere.
  The DVD will arrive separately from the planner and the interview cards. With the holiday mail delivery, please allow up to 14 days for delivery.

$89 $59 (+$12 S&H)

Only 3 left

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 23 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the board of two non-profit organizations. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit www.WinningThroughPageantry.com.

 

Your expectations lay the groundwork for how positive your national pageant experience will be. Today I share 5 tips that will help you at your national pageant.

• Get plenty of rest before you leave for the pageant. The schedule is packed and you will get very little sleep at the pageant. Any FUN events should be done either before or after the actual competition. Once the competition schedule begins, it’s WORK time. If the whole family goes, get them their own room or have something for them to do off site so you can get ready in your own space. Pageants are VERY stressful. When there are too many people under foot, drama will happen.

• The most positive and ideal situation is to have only ONE of your children compete at a time. All three of my daughters competed at the MAC national pageant last week and I will never do all three at the same time again. It’s too overwhelming and not enjoyable. I’ve now done all combinations at all levels of competition and I can firmly say that one at a time is the best way to go.

• You will need support a team. Surround yourself with people who work well under pressure, keep you in a positive state of mind, and who are punctual, detail oriented and organized. Know your weaknesses and enlist the help of those who have the strengths you need to keep things moving in the right direction. Avoid situations and people who push your buttons. The more self reliant you are, the better; but you can’t do everything alone.

• Expect the unexpected. Expect to be surprised by people’s behavior and who shows up at the national competition. If you know ahead of time that someone or something will catch you off guard, you’ll be expecting it.

• Expect to feel every human emotion possible during pageant week. The key is not to let the feelings define who you are or paralyze you. If an emotion is taking you to a negative place, you need to have a plan as to how you can flip the situation quickly. This might mean physically leaving the situation or mentally escaping to your “happy” place.

To all of you who have worked with me one-on-one, attended my boot camps, received my interview cards and used the abundant information I freely give in my newsletters, I congratulate each and every one of you on your accomplishments this past week at the national MAC and NAM pageants.

My focus has and always will be on the positive growth process leading up to the pageant. What you have learned in that process is applied not only to the pageant; but in your life after the crowning moment.

It takes a whole team of people to help you succeed; but at the end of the pageant, it is YOU who has won the honor—not your stylist nor one of your many coaches. YOU.

But remember to give proper credit where credit is due, be humble in your attitude, and be respectful in your words and actions. Forget no one who has helped you along the way.

 

“The more credit you give away, the more will come back to you. The more you help others, the more they will want to help you.” Brian Tracy

 

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF).

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music.  For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

Don’t misunderstand me. I love pageantry. But with all of the logistics that go into running a pageant, there is a lot of room for things to go wrong. Being self reliant will eliminate certain stressors and you’ll have a more positive pageant experience. Less stress means you will feel more relaxed and confident in your abilities. The more relaxed and confident you are, the greater your chances are of sharing who you are and winning the hearts of the judges.

At first glance what I am about to say may seem negative, but it’s not. This thought process has saved my sanity and skin countless times. Here it is: Look at the pageant schedule, and think of every possible thing that could go wrong and create a plan for what you would do if that were to happen. Get detailed. Let your imagination run wild. Think of the worst things that could happen to you and plan out what you would do in that situation. By doing this, not only will you be more prepared; but you will eliminate the fear factor because you’ve worked it out ahead of time.

It would look something like this. What if I get there, and rehearsal runs late and there isn’t enough time for my makeup person to do my makeup? Or, what if the pageant provided stylist does my hair and makeup and I hate it? Solution: Learn how to do your own makeup. This might mean taking private classes and practicing weeks before the pageant so you can master putting on your own makeup.

What if I get there and they have lost my paperwork? Solution: You always bring copies of everything with you to the pageant. Mark my words, the one time you think it is not necessary is going to be THE time you wish you would have brought it.

• Hair and Makeup- Stylists are wonderful; but you need to learn how to do your own hair and makeup. Sometimes the schedule does not allow enough time for you to get your hair and makeup professional done before the show. Plus, some stylists over book themselves, get sick, or no show you. Even if the pageant says they will provide people to do this, never totally depend on them. Taking classes from a professional makeup and hair artist to show you how to do your own hair and makeup will be one of the best investments you can make.

 

• Wardrobe- In half of the pageants systems parents, coaches and stylists are not allowed into the dressing rooms. You need to practice getting into your clothes by yourself. Keep this in mind when shopping for gowns. There is never enough hanging space for your clothing so bring your own hanging rack. I ordered the Dritz Ironing and Drying Rack (# 10688323) from Joann.com for $30 (but I used a 40% coupon) and LOVE it! It’s lightweight, folds into two pieces and fits in the bottom of my big suitcase. It extends up to 64 ½ “and says holds up to 33 garments. But 9 adult sized pageant garments is all I put on it. Bling is heavy.
  

 

• Food- Pack your own supply of water and food. Pageant supplied food is not healthy or satisfying. You need to be able to eat on the run because rehearsals run late, restaurants get crowded, and you need to invest more time in getting your outer appearance ready for competition than hunting for food in an unfamiliar environment.
  

 

• Accommodations – Even if the pageant is local, I stay in the event hotel. You need a safe place to rest, recompose and get ready for events in private. People, it is not professional to change your clothes and do your hair and makeup in the public restrooms of the hotel. The extra $100 for a room is worth its weight in gold so build it into your budget. I’m speaking from three decades of experience as a contestant, pageant mom, and judge. Get a room.

 

• Paperwork, CDs, DVD, Photos, etc.- Bring extra hard copies of everything. That includes your music CD if you’re doing talent (I always have three separate discs), all paperwork you mailed in ahead of time, headshots, judges bio, and copies of your cancelled checks, credit card statements or receipts from the pageant showing what you have paid for.
  

 

Arrive early, observe everything that is being said and happening around you, and have your backup plans in place. Follow the Girl Scout Motto “Be Prepared” and the Swedish Proverb “The best place to find a helping hand is at the end of your own arm.”

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

 

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation.

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.

Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music.  For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

Courtesy of: Appelbaum Wellness LLC.

"Balance is not better time management, but better boundary management. Balance means making choices and enjoying those choices."-Betsy Jacobson

It's a new school year. With it comes a long list of possible activities that you and your family can get involved in. Are the activities you’re participating in helping you to reach your goals, or are they creating more stress in your life? How balanced is your lifestyle? When you look at your calendar, is it filled with one type of activity (such as sports) or is there a healthy balance between personal time, family activities, community involvement, church activities and school events? If it’s unbalanced, now is the time to make changes.

What does this have to do with pageantry? Everything.

• Participating in pageants is both time consuming and expensive. If you don’t have a clear plan as to which pageant you are going to compete in, how you’re financially going to make that happen, and how to keep competition in its proper perspective, you will experience more stress than fulfillment from the situation. Take some time to set healthy boundaries for this year so you don't over commit yourself. Before committing to a new opportunity, ask yourself, "will this create more joy in my life; or more stress?"

• A well-rounded contestant is more effective in the interview room and as a titleholder. If you predominately have only one thing in your life (academics, sports, your career, competitive cheer, or pageants), you’re not going to relate to a large cross section of people. If your judge knows nothing about cheerleading, all of your awards in that area will mean nothing to them. There is strength in diversity.

When working on your bio, never and I mean never, do you want to lie, stretch the truth, or put anything that is misleading on your resume. Don’t even put future events on there because the future can change in a heartbeat. You only put on paper what you have done. Now if there is a question about “what are your future plans”, well, yes there you can talk about the future.

When I’m working with a client, if I see their life is a bit lop sided, and you know your life is lop sided if you don’t have anything to put under a particular heading on your resume, together we will explore how she might be able to balance her life better by adding different activities to it.

By adding more community service or exploring a new hobby, you will add another dimension to your personality and you may discover a hidden talent or passion of yours. Now, you’re missing the point entirely if the only reason you volunteer at your local soup kitchen is to be able to put it on your resume, or get recognized so you have an award to put down on your bio. That is not what I mean. Serve because you want to give and make a difference. Give without expecting praise or anything in return. Any other intension is a bribe not a gift.

The reason you want balance in your life is to become a better person and to fully develop into the person God wanted you to be. It is in TRUE giving (expecting nothing in return) that we receive. I want to end today with this wonderful article I found that dovetails nicely with today’s topic.

 

Five Balls Of Life

This was written by the CEO of Coca-Cola Brian G. Dyson.

Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling some five balls in the air.
You name them - Work - Family - Health - Friends - Spirit, and you're keeping all of these in the air.

You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls -- family, health, friends and spirit are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for balance in your life. How?

1. Don't undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.

2. Don't set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you.

3. Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless.

4. Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live ALL the days of your life.

5. Don't give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.

6. Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us together.

7. Don't be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave.

8. Don't shut love out of your life by saying it's impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings

.
9. Don't run through life so fast that you forget not only where you've been, but also where you are going.

10. Don't forget that a person's greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated.

11. Don't be afraid to learn. Knowledge is weightless, a treasure you can always carry easily.

12. Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

 

 Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill. The more you practice, the better you will get. This handy interview card is a great way to practice with a partner or to use by yourself.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview. Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

 

WTP Pageant Bootcamp In
Columbus, Ohio

This two-hour bootcamp is for you if you're preparing for a pageant and you want to take your skills to the next level. I will provide face-to-face training to strengthen your abilities in the following areas:

• Interview
• Modeling Technique
• Personal Introduction
• Answering Onstage Questions
• Mental Attitude

By working in a small group, you’ll benefit by listening and watching each other; expanding your knowledge of pageantry; mastering your own skills; and receiving personal feedback at an affordable price. Space is limited so reserve your time now.

Saturday, September 10, 2011
Location:
Hilton Garden Inn | 3928 Jackpot Road |Grove City, OH 43123 |
614-539-8944

Directions to Hotel: Take Exit 100 off Interstate 71South of downtown Columbus. Turn left onto Stringtown if you're coming from the north, right if coming from the south. Turn left onto Thistlewood (it’s the first big intersection with a stop light). Turn left onto Killdeer at the stop sign - (there's a Home Depot on your right- Putt Putt on your left). Turn right onto Jackpot road. The Hilton Garden is on the right behind the LaQuinta Hotel.

Session 2
Sat, September 10

1:00pm - 3:00pm

$139

Take this opportunity to Register NOW!

• You can participate in one session, or all of them. It’s up to you. The more you practice these skills, the more natural they’ll become. In each session you’ll be actually practicing your interview, modeling, personal introduction, onstage question and mental attitude skills.

• I’ll be giving you immediate feedback the entire time so it doesn’t matter if this is your first pageant or you’re a seasoned professional wanting some extra polish. I’ll meet you exactly where you are and take you to the next level.

• For bootcamp contestants, I’m offering an optional 45 minute private coaching session the same day of the bootcamp. This individual time is to help tailor the material to fit your specific needs. These are scheduled on a “first come” basis so schedule now to get your choice of time. Time slots will be before and after the bootcamp.

All fees are nonrefundable and must be paid in full prior to the bootcamp or coaching session. If you prefer to pay with a check, please contact me throughinfo@winningthroughpageantry.com. Checks must be received at least one week prior to the date of your session. Your date is officially confirmed once payment has been received.

Once payment has been received, you will be contacted to schedule your private 45-minute coaching session.

There are only eight private sessions available each day.

Private sessions will begin at

10:00am through 12:45pm

and

3:15pm through 7:15pm

click here to register

 

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music.  For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

After months of preparation, what do you do when your best isn’t good enough to win the crown? (Sigh) I have been there more times than I care to remember. As much as I tried to mentally prepare myself when I was a competitor, the sting of not hearing my name called out as the winner was always painful. Sometimes the pain was deeper than others; but it was there none the less. So, what do you do when your best wasn’t enough? The answer came to me from an unexpected place this week.

It was a big week with many highs and lows. I was at the Ohio State Fair where my daughters were having their 4-H projects judged. In between their competitions, I would read the messages coming into my cell phone from my clients. The thrill of victory and agony of defeat is putting it mildly.
As I sat in the youth center, I read the 4-H banner, “To make the best better!” Now, I’ve seen this banner for years and, honestly, I thought it was the goofiest slogan ever—that is, until now. It finally hit me.

It’s all about continual improvement. You work hard to be your very best at the moment you are competing; and at that moment, you may be at your best. Based on your training, resources, and time available to you, you were at a peak. But, life is never stagnant. You can always make the best better. Tomorrow you’ll learn something new and that will help you move forward and become even better. I’m sure when the first car was invented; some people thought it couldn’t get any better than that. There is always something we can improve on if we stay in the growing mode.

You will experience many peaks and valleys through your life. When standing on a peak, shout a big “Woo Hoo” and enjoy it. When in the valley look up, evaluate your resources, and start hiking back up the mountain.

Now, getting back to the pageant. The best thing to do is give the director a week after the pageant to just relax. A lot goes into preparing for a pageant. Plus, you need the time to chill out and purge yourself of all the negative thoughts and energy that you are holding onto. Call your coach or a trusted friend to let you just vent to get it out of your system. Don’t expect them to fix it. You just need a good listener at this point.

Next, call the director and ask for any feedback that they could share with you. Some directors will give you directions at the pageant about their protocol. If you do, follow it and follow up. You can’t make improvements unless you know what areas your scores were lowest in.

If the director doesn’t give you feedback, then you’re on your own to figure out your next steps. Many times, you don’t need to change a thing. You just need a different set of judges. So look for another competition. But there are times when you need to invest in a different gown or hire someone to do your hair and makeup. Perhaps your communication skills need more work. Or maybe it’s time to hire a coach, or get a different one.

The point is, you can always improve. Enjoy the journey and make the most out of your preparation process.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

 

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill that everyone can benefit from. The more you practice, the better you will get. These handy interview cards are a great way to practice with a partner or use by yourself to get you thinking about the topic.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview situation. Then each month you will receive a new card in the mail with fresh questions.

Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation.

She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®.

She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

Yes, pageants are very exciting and fun; however, there are important logistics and details that need to be taken care of so you can fully enjoy the experience. Realistically, you can be the best planner and you will still encounter unforeseen things that are beyond your control. If you accept this fact upfront, you will save yourself a lot of stress,anxiety and remain cool when things get hot.

Here are the big 5 stressors I have found over the years and how you can prepare for them.

1. 
   

   Waiting until the last minute to do things is not the best plan of attack.

   Start writing out your packing list at least two weeks before and start the actual packing 7 days before you leave for your pageant. If you wait until the last minute to shop for a nude pair of closed-toe shoes or shop for earrings to go with your gown, you’re just setting yourself up for major stress. Have all of your purchases made and in your possession 30 days before you leave. Schedule your coaching, tanning, hair, nail and waxing appointments far in advance because your stylists get sick and take vacations too. Learning to manage your time is a key element in relieving your anxiety and stress.
   

2. Poorly fitted opening number outfits, bathing suits, and shoes.

   I’ve learned from my own personal experience, to plan for the worst when the pageant is “providing” part of your wardrobe. Out of necessity, I’ve taught myself how to sew and this skill has saved me and my daughters tons of stress and money over the years. Your outfit will be the wrong size, zippers will break, seams will pop, garments will be too low in the front or too short in length, fabrics will be too sheer and shoes will create blisters. Plan accordingly. Always bring a variety of nude colored bras (convertible straps, strapless, adhesive breast petals, and silicone pads), camis, dance trunks, and spanx. A pair of spanx can take you down a size if your outfit is too small and cover your bottom if the dress is too short.
3. 
   Needle, thread, safety pins, double-stick hem tape, clear band-aids, a variety of Dr. Scholl’s shoe pads, non slide pads for the bottom of your shoes, clear blister pads, clear packing tape, body glue, Hollywood tape and scissors should be in every pageant contestant’s emergency kit. Learn how to stitch things together.
4. 
   

   Know how to do your own hair and makeup.

   Hair and makeup people can run behind or ‘no show’ at a pageant. If you are solely dependent upon them, you’re in big trouble. All girls and women must learn how to do their own hair and makeup someday, so start practicing now while you’re at home. I mean let’s face it, very few people have the luxury of a personal stylist to tend to them. At most pageants, the stylists are not allowed backstage once the pageant begins. You will be responsible for yourself. Plus, you know your face and hair best. Sometimes the stylists do a great job, other times they miss the mark.

Your best plan is to learn how to do it yourself, and if you are using stylists at the pageant, have them do your hair and makeup for the optional competitions and parties. That will be their practice on you and you can give them feedback as to what to change when the judging counts.

1. 
   

   Print out and bring copies of all your pageant paperwork and receipts of payment.

   Print out your hotel confirmation number, bank statement showing cleared checks, credit card statement showing that the expenses posted to your account, and all the paperwork you sent to the pageant. Also, all the phone numbers, passwords, and email addresses to the directors, hotel, pageant friends, coaches and people at home that you would possibly need to contact for any reason. Cell phones don’t get reception, paperwork gets lost, and computer errors can create more stress than you can imagine. Be prepared and have all of your records with you in a three-ring binder as a backup plan, and don’t lose the binder. Also, have a couple hundred dollars in cash, a couple different credit cards and your checkbook with you. Again, stuff can happen and you don’t want to be left in an awkward financial pinch.
2. 
   

   Avoid getting overly tired, hungry or thirsty.

   If you or your daughter get overly tired, hungry, or thirsty, emotional mood swings are more likely to happen. Avoid this by bringing your own supply of snacks and drinks. If you are driving to the pageant, stock your car with cases of bottled water, food, and a small microwave oven or crock pot if you have one. The more self-sufficient you are at the pageant, the better experience you will have. If you are flying to the pageant, pack one big suitcase of just food. It will still be cheaper paying the baggage fee than the money you will spend for room service or having no food at all when you get to your room. Make friends with someone at the pageant who has a car and offer to pay them to drive you to the nearest Wal-Mart. If that doesn’t pan out, take a taxi or the hotel limo service. Remember, rehearsals run late, the lines in the host hotel restaurants get long, and the meals provided sometimes are not a healthy, energy generating source.
   
3. The pageant schedule is very tight and exhausting. You must rest during the down time. If you’ve stocked your room with food, go to the room and eat by yourself during the lunch breaks to rejuvenate. Set your boundaries for bedtime and stick to them. Just because someone knocks at the door or calls you on your cell phone, doesn’t mean you have to answer it. You need time away from the group to rest and keep things in perspective.
5. There will always be some logical problem at a pageant-always, so just plan on it. That way, you’re not caught off-guard when it happens and you can stop yourself before you start down the negative attitude spiral.
6. 
   Being aware of the conversation taking place within your head and controlling the words you speak are THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS you can do to avoid the negative drama at an event. If overwhelmed with negative emotion, take a deep breath, think about what’s really important, and focus on what is enjoyable about the experience. If you need to physically remove yourself from the environment for a moment, then do so.

 

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive  my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Pageant Season Is Here!

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill that everyone can benefit from. The more you practice, the better you will get. These handy interview cards are a great way to practice with a partner or use by yourself to get you thinking about the topic.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview situation. Then each month you will receive a new card in the mail with fresh questions.

Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

 

 

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to

provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

? # @ !

 

Yes, you read that right. Kids and teens, you can use this four letter word without getting into trouble and get your parents to stop nagging you. You win!

Parents, you can use this word to get an answer other than “I don’t know” from your kids when you ask them a question. You win!

And wives, you can say this four letter word to your husband without making him become defensive and retreat into the man cave for the rest of the night. You win!

 
What is the four letter word? Hmmmm. Let me tell you what it isn’t first. “Why”. The word “why” can immediately throw up the defensive wall in some people. Think about your own reaction when someone asks you why.

• Why did you do that?
• Why do you do it that way?
• Why did you say that?
• Why are you so afraid of …?

 

Inevitably, when you start a question with the word “why” you’re going to get the answer “I don’t know” even though the person really does know why. “Why” is a three letter word, but it has the potential of eliciting a four letter response.

For example, in pageant land, it could be something as simple as dress shopping. What starts out to be an enjoyable shopping experience can quickly turn when the daughter turns to the mother and says “why do you always pick that style of dress for me?” Feeling her button pushed, the mother quickly fires back, “Because I like it and I think it’s appropriate on you.” A big eye roll from the daughter, and yet another button gets pushed in mom and on it goes.

So to turn any conversation into a winning experience, where both parties are understood and a deeper level of communication takes place, substitute the word “what” when you feel the urge to start with “why”.

Using our dress scenario as an example, the daughter could have said, “what is it about this dress that you like so much?” The mother could have said something like “I think the way the neckline brings attention to your shoulders. They’re one of your strongest physical attributes.” “Wow!” the daughter thinks. “I’ve never really noticed that about myself; but now that mom points that out, I think she’s right.”

The word “what” helps your mind immediately start to think of specific reasons, where the word “why” puts you are guard and it feels like a personal attack.
Here are some phrases to try out this week using the winning four letter word. Give them a shot and see what a difference it makes in your communication with people.

• What did you mean when you said …?
• What can I do to help you?
• What do you want from this experience?
• What can we do to make our time together more enjoyable?

 

Make sure your tone in using the word “what” is coming from a place of curiosity. You won’t have a positive exchange if you’re using the word “what” but thinking another four letter word in your head.

This week, be curious and substitute the word “what” for “why” and see what results you get.

To receive every weekly article I write directly to your inbox and request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Pageant Season Is Here!

Now's The Time to Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

INTERVIEW CARD

The ability to answer questions about you, your purpose, current events, and controversial topics in a clear way is an important life skill that everyone can benefit from. The more you practice, the better you will get. These handy interview cards are a great way to practice with a partner or use by yourself to get you thinking about the topic.
The Beginning 10 Questions are the staple interview questions everyone must know the answers in an interview situation. Then each month you will receive a new card in the mail with fresh questions.

Now preparing for your interview is easy and for a limited time FREE.

.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 22 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

Today, reality TV shows are numerous; and pageants aren’t left out. Mrs. America, Mrs. World, Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Universe, Miss Teen USA, Little Miss Perfect, MTV’s MADE, and Toddlers and Tiaras have all had their share of TV coverage. But how does what you see on your screen compare to the real event?

Here’s the reality about television. TV stations are in business to make money. Even if their intentions are honorable, if they don’t make a profit, they won’t stay in business. Networks make their money from the commercial ads they sell. Companies will pay to have their commercials run during TV shows that have the highest number of viewers watching them.

But, people are not going to watch boring programs. They want to watch something interesting, exciting, inspirational, dramatic, entertaining, or controversial; anything to help them escape from the dull routine of their normal lives. TV is primarily an entertainment medium. What makes Reality TV so magnetic is that the actors are usually ordinary people who we can relate to; or in some cases, people we already know.

My first exposure to television filming was at age 14 when I was on the Jerry Lewis Telethon. At age 19, I was part of a Coca-Cola sponsored tour of Japan. This meant major media coverage the entire two months we were there. When we were performing in Nagoya, the TV network asked if they could follow one of the performers for the entire seven days we were there to make a 60 minute documentary about our international group. The answer was yes, and I was the cast member chosen.

For 7 days, I had my own 6 man Japanese TV crew following and filming my every move. They were there when I woke up and they put me to bed at night. I learned being a celebrity wasn’t all it was cracked up to be and that I really valued my privacy. Again, when you’re an adventurous 19 year old, your tolerance level is pretty high. After all, doesn’t everyone want their 15 minutes of fame on TV?

But this is when I started to understand that there can be a dramatic difference between what really happens and how those same events are manipulated and portrayed on television. TV producers can edit events and comments to create a scene that varies from the event that actually occurred. For example, if they want an inspiring story, then they’re only going to air the footage that will emotionally move the audience. However, if they want drama, then that’s what they’re going to seek out; and that is precisely what will be created by editing the footage they have to support their vision.

The year I competed at Mrs. America, Women’s Entertainment Television (We TV) produced and aired the Mrs. America pageant on their network. There were two different worlds revolving during the 15 days we were in Palm Springs. There was the taping and producing of a TV show; and the pageant competition. Most of the time spent was on the taping of the TV show.

TV can be fun and exciting. It’s great exposure and reaches millions of people. If you find yourself competing in a pageant that’s going to air on TV, here are some things to keep in mind:

• TV is a controlled environment. What gets shown is totally determined by the angle the producer has chosen.

 

• Things are taped and re-taped multiple times. This is very time consuming so be patient.

 

• Many times, people are told what to say and how to say it. Or, they’re asked to say the same lines in different ways. Then the producers will pick which one they want to include in the show.

 

• Hours of filming are edited into seconds on the screen. Remember, they’re looking for the parts to create their particular spin on the story.

 

• You have full control over what you say and what you do. It’s your choice as to what rules you choose to play the game by. Never do and say anything that goes against your judgment or moral character.

 

• Nothing you say or do is off the record. Remember this if nothing else. The cameras are always rolling and anything you say or do is free game and may appear on the show.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive  my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 21 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. Their music CD entitled Cana is available through  www.cdbaby.com/cd/shappert or on her website. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .

 

Everyone wants to win whether it's in a pageant, sport, relationship, or career. We want to know the winning combination to help us achieve it and we want it right now.

At times, we forget that everything in life has peaks and valleys. There's a time and place for everything that happens to us. With everything being so instantaneous in our society, it's hard to be patient; but, it's one virtue I feel is the foundation to a strong moral character and there's no better teacher of it than life events. Patience will help you rejoice when you're on the mountain top and sustain you when you're in the dark valley.

So let's talk about these peaks and valleys. We humans are physical, spiritual, intellectual, and emotional. The physical growth and changes are easy to see. In pageantry, physical beauty is key. Yes, the other areas of life are important too, BUT, it is first and foremost a physical beauty pageant so basic external components must be present to win a national title. Remember, beauty is subjective and everyone has their own opinion .

 

However, as I look over the photos of my life, I can clearly see periods of time when my physical make up was at its peak and when it was in the valley. Peaks for me were ages 5, 17, 22, and 38. My entire middle school years, junior high years and the pregnancy decade were definite valleys. Oh my, were they valleys!

Hair textures, body fat distribution, skin clarity, height and changes in our teeth are drastically different at various times in our life. With as much money and time that goes into pageant preparation, I feel it is important to take these changes into account.

At times, it may be better to wait to do a pageant while these growth periods take place.  It’s been my experience that the most valuable personal insights and growth lessons have taken place when I was in the valley.  Then when I did reach the top, my appreciation of the experience was so much greater.

If doing a pageant during this "valley" period of a person's life helps them to feel better about themselves and builds them up, by all means do pageants. But, if a young girl wears glasses, braces and struggles with her weight decides to do a pageant, and she develops a negative self image; then waiting to do a pageant until the hormonal changes are complete may be wise.

We also hit peaks and valleys in our mental, emotional and spiritual growth. So, there may be times when physically we peak, but emotionally, we may not be ready for the responsibilities of a national titleholder. Physical changes, for the most part, happen quicker than the mental, emotional and spiritual areas of our lives.

 

You'll have the greatest opportunity of winning the crown when you're competing at your peak than when you're in the valley. If you're in the valley, be patient and wait. Your time is coming to peak. If you're peaking right now, be humble and appreciative because you won't stay there permanently.

Request my free special report, 10 Insider Secrets to Winning, and receive  my free award winning newsletter weekly. Just click here or at the top of this page to GET YOUR FREE REPORT.Then fill out your name and email address in the boxes.

When the girls were done with interviews, we went to Downtown Disney to watch the new Harry Potter movie.It was refreshing to do something outside of the pageant world that we'd been immersed in for the past 10 days.

Just taking a few hours to leave the hotel and do something "normal" (LOL) helps to break up the stress that can be felt at a national pageant. I don't know if any other mothers can relate to that.

But you want to keep the fun in your relationship with your daughter especially at a pageant. Don't turn it into a stress feast.

National pageants are very high maintenance and it's important to take a time out once in a while to help keep everything in perspective whether that means taking a dip in the pool, going out for ice cream, or to a movie. Remember; don't let things get too serious. If they do, give yourself (and your daughter) a time out.

However, I have to admit, I needed a bit of a pick me up after seeing this movie. I really missed the humorous interplay between the characters that was present in the previous films, and quite frankly it was downright depressing for me-nothing that a little sweet food couldn't cure though :).

Advent starts this week where Christians around the world start to prepare for the Christmas season. I wonder what the holiday season would look like if everyone focused on loving and giving to their fellow man with the same focus and intensity that pageant contestants use for their pageant preparation.

Plan right now to "give" one thing away each day to someone you encounter. It could be a smile, a word of encouragement, a blanket to the homeless, or a meal for someone in need. Let's see what kind of an impact we can have this December.

Rhonda Shappert is an expert pageant coach, an iPEC Certified Professional Coach, an Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, and a member of the International Coach Federation. She created Winning Through Pageantry® to partner with pageant contestants and their support people to provide complete pageant preparation, achieve winning results in life through pageantry, and to Succeed From The Inside Out®. She has over 30 years experience in the pageantry world as a contestant, judge, emcee, staff member, mother of daughters who compete, Mrs. Ohio America 2005, and has held multiple titles at the local, state and national levels.
Rhonda graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree in Musical Theater from The Ohio State University and has performed on stage in 15 countries on the Asian, European and American continents. This mother of three home educates their children and has been married 21 years to her husband Stephen, is the former mayor of her community, and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Ohio Virtual Academy. She and her husband perform original contemporary Christian music. Their music CD entitled Cana is available through  www.cdbaby.com/cd/shappert or on her website. For more information on Rhonda, visit  www.WinningThroughPageantry.com .