About Newman

I enjoy creating content as a writer almost as much as I enjoy seeing people do well as they face their day and move forward in the life they nurture. That joy started early, watching my parents work hard and stay focused. I learned by helping behind the scenes, keeping records, handling newsletters, and supporting their mission. Those experiences taught me that real success grows out of service.

I learned even more about life while working behind the chair as a hairstylist for 45 years. Listening and talking with my clients deepened my understanding of resilience, everyday courage, and unbelievable challenges. Those conversations were my greatest education. When I had to retire the end of 2025 from hairstyling for health reasons, it left a deep gap in my daily connection with others. That change is what led me to expand the 38 Bulletin into what it is today, the website, newsletter, and app, all built around that same spirit of listening, care, and community.

Over the years I’ve worn a lot of hats: hairstylist, image consultant, designer, website builder, copywriter, and coach. You could say I’m a jack of all trades, master of none, and I’m fine with that. I know what I know, and when I don’t, I reach out to the people who do. To me, life is all about self-acceptance and self-improvement.

It’s not about being better, it’s about being better at who you are. And if that growth nurtures connection and supports the well-being of others, then I believe we’re on the right track.

I never pretend to be an expert at everything. For instance, I’m not a photographer, but I can help people on a startup budget with basic photography needs. When someone’s ready for professional work, I turn to the real deal, Ryan Beck Photography, a talented commercial photographer and longtime friend.

The same goes for web design. Birgit Basballe, an exceptional artist and designer, creates immersive, artful websites, not cookie-cutter ones. Her work is far above my pay grade, and I’ve learned a lot from her guidance over the years.

I also owe a great deal of gratitude to Phyllis Clark, founder and CEO of The Healthy Heritage Movement, Inc. Her lifelong commitment to improving the mental and physical health of African Americans has inspired me deeply. She encouraged me to serve on the board of the International Association of Image Consultants, LA Chapter, where I learned how image and wellness connect to confidence and purpose. Through her projects, including Broken Crayons Still Color, she continues to create safe spaces for African American women to speak openly about mental health and healing. Her leadership and compassion continue to guide my own work today.

I’m especially grateful to Dr. Della Condon, Head of the Cosmetology Department at RCC, at the time I took extended training. She taught me that cosmetology is a form of creative courage, far beyond the ability to do hair. Her influence shaped more than my skills; it strengthened my spirit.

I’m thankful for every client I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years. I’d name them all if it were possible, because each person has contributed to my growth in ways I’ll never forget. Their stories, trust, and humanity have been some of my greatest teachers. Along the way, so many have helped shape how I see the world and how I work. One once gave me an “aha” moment I’ll never forget, saying, “Newman, when the plan ain’t working, change the plan. ~BT”. Another, a linguistics professor, continues to challenge how I think and express myself. And then there are countless others, people who’ve offered kindness, truth, and perspective at just the right time. I carry them all with me.

I am especially grateful for my better half, John, whose steady love and support have made everything possible. Without him, I would have had to narrow my life down in ways I can’t imagine. Every experience I’ve been able to live has been richer because he’s been by my side.

What I continue to do, and what many people don’t realize I’ve been doing all along because I never marketed it directly, is help people start from where they are. I work with small businesses and individuals who want to represent themselves honestly and effectively.

I help people find and express an image and message that match who they are and what they do. To me, good branding begins with image awareness. It’s not about being proper, it’s about being real. It’s about knowing your purpose and staying relevant to the people you serve. That’s been my focus for years, and it still brings me joy to see people discover their true presentation voice and share it with confidence.

Your presentation voice is the outward expression of your inner truth. It’s how your tone, words, and presence come together to represent who you are. When that connection comes from a place of integrity and self-awareness, it feels authentic, and it shows. The inside work makes that possible.

I also coach one-on-one, helping people move through the barriers that keep them from showing up fully. What I’ve learned comes from my own barriers, and from listening to how others find ways to stay genuine without turning against themselves. Self-work isn’t about perfection, it’s about learning to live with honesty, grace, and strength, even when the hard parts don’t disappear.

The 38 Bulletin website, newsletter, and app grew from these same values. It’s a place that supports connection, encouragement, and creative growth within us and within the mountain communities we call home.

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