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Tell us a little about you.

Hi! I'm a rough around the edges, cuss words for adjectives, sensitive heart that will do anything I can to help someone.  I've been married to my incredible husband for 10 years and am so very lucky to be mommy to our seven year old twin girls.  I’m the youngest of 4 girls who took full advantage of being “the baby of the family” and now I work like hell to move past that title. To most people I seem very outgoing and gregarious but to those that know me best I’m actually painfully shy.  It’s only once that I feel comfortable does the loud, playful, attention grabbing side pop out.  I’m a voracious reader of books and a lover of long bicycle rides.  I love to travel and hate to fly! I love deeply and with my whole self and am incredibly protective of the people I love.  I dream of writing a book about my sister and I that one day becomes a movie.  

Upon diagnosis, what was your first thought? 

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer all I could think was, “now is not the time”. My oldest sister was in the hospital dying from the disease and my parents were barely holding on. They were taking turns living in my sister’s hospital room and helping her husband and young son. My next thought was, “how the hell do I tell my parents that I have cancer too?!”  Being told I had cancer wasn’t nearly the sucker punch I thought it would be. Having to tell my family that they now had 2 daughters, sisters with the disease was the most horrible and guilt wrenching feeling.

Sometimes it’s hard to “thrive,” we all have days where we are just trying to survive. What is something that gets you through on the hardest days?

Between my survivor's guilt and the fear that my cancer will come back I have days that I slip in a dark, cold hole. These days my pain and even rage have quite literally brought me to my knees and to my bedroom, where I lay in complete darkness and sob. I always allow these moments.  I feel as though I need to honor them and allow myself to really feel each tear that rips me open. And no matter how deep I get in that hole there’s always these 2 sets of little hands that reach for me and pull me out. My miracles. My twin  baby girls who were born 5 years after my sister's death and my diagnosis. Their brilliant lights and all encompassing love brings me back and fills me with so much joy and happiness. And then there’s him.  My husband. The man who walked into my life when I was going through the absolute worst time. He walked in with his eyes wide open and told me he was going to love and support me through it all, forever.  These are my people. They are my whys. 

Who is another woman you have admired on this journey that has shared a similar experience with breast cancer/cancer (please type what type of cancer you had/have)? 

I have always admired how my sister lived with breast cancer.  She made sure to never stop living.  She didn’t let cancer take anything away, especially without a fight.   She left in me awe of how she tried to live a “normal” life, despite living with stage 4 cancer. A life that required weekly chemo treatments, numerous surgeries as well as other procedures.  I know she did it for more than herself.  She was married with a young son and she never wanted her disease to affect their lives. Everything she did was for them. 3 months after my diagnosis my sister died of breast cancer.  I know I never took the time to “deal” with my own cancer diagnosis because of how quickly it all happened.  I was diagnosed while she was in the ICU, my mastectomy was while she was in a medically induced coma, I had my egg retrieval surgery hours before her funeral and I started chemo a week later.  In those moments I tapped into my sister. She always  handled her setbacks with such grit and grace and I was going to do everything I could to do the same.  I didn’t want to be the cause of any more pain in my family's life and I wanted to make her proud. 

We all need a good support system; who makes up yours? 

I’m so lucky to have a large support system.  So many feel as though they’re alone in their diagnosis but from the beginning I’ve been surrounded with love and support.  My parents and sisters have always been there. From Tracy’s initial diagnosis to my own, we have held and supported one another through all of the tears, the laughter and the anger.  The numerous doctors appointments, surgeries and chemo treatments and hospital stays. My sister and I were NEVER alone.  I also have a niece and 4 nephews who, at incredibly young ages, knew the intricacies of cancer and always had hugs and love to give.  Even giving their own words of support and encouragement. I have a fabulous group of friends as well as my sister's friends who have all showed up for me whenever I’ve needed them.  And of course my husband and daughters, who are my foundations.  The ones who believe, unwaveringly, that we can get through anything together. 

Through your journey, what are some resources you have found that would be helpful to other women? 

When I was first told I had the BRCA1 gene mutation I found an organization called Bright Pink.  THeir mission is to accelerate the impact of life saving breast and ovarian health interventions.  Talking with them helped me confidently decide to have a preventive mastectomy with reconstruction.  I refused to “do cancer”. HOwever before my surgery at the pre-surgery tests my doctor found a mass and now my surgery was necessary instead of preventive. However, because of my sister I already knew the exact organization and group of women to lean on. The women of The Young Survival Coalition descended upon me and my family with all the help we could possibly need. The YSC is a premiere non-profit dedicated to educating the medical community and the public that breast cancer can and does happen to young adults.  They have been an absolute force in my life who helped me find my voice and showed me how I could take the power back from cancer.  I found so much support and strength in them and the other young adults I have met through the organization. Another amazing organization is Pink Cans 4 Cancer found by my friends Tony and Robbie.  They are not only environmentally conscious with the recycling of cans and bottles but the money from the recycling is then used to support young women with breast cancer.  From arranging rides to chemo treatments, paying for medical expenses or even the cost of funerals But also to help young women realize their dreams.  Thanks to them they are supporting me and helped arrange the contacts for me to write a book about my sister and I.  I feel so incredibly lucky that I have had such incredible organizations to help and guide me during my diagnosis and beyond.

What is something society gets wrong about young women battling breast cancer and cancer in general? 

Unfortunately there are those that are still shocked to find that young women are diagnosed with breast cancer.  There are still doctors who will send a young woman home after she points to a lump and tell their doctor it doesn't feel right.  This is what happened to my sister.  Her doctor dismissed her concerns over a lump and it took another 6 months and pressure from my sister before he would agree to a needle biopsy.  Perhaps if her doctor had been better educated on young women with breast cancer, Tracy would have caught her cancer earlier and she would still be here. 

You come across another woman who has just received her diagnosis. What is one piece of advice you’d have for them at that moment?

When I speak to young women who are newly diagnosed I always tell them that they must take the time to honor their feelings and emotions.  If they want to sit in their sadness and fear for a short time then they need to.  TOr if they want to go in “fight mode” have it.  But then, no matter their diagnosis, of the stage of their cancer, they must live.  They need to get up and go to their doctor's appointments.  Do not skip that dinner with friends. GOne on the trip, fall in love, start new career, learn to ride a motorcycle. Just live. Rest and take time when you need to and then get out there and live. And no matter what, you will never be alone.

Because we have to (we love music here) - what’s the last song you listened to? 

Ed Sheerhan’s Joker and the Queen. We’re MASSIVE Ed Sheerhan fans. Especially my daughter Tessa.

Photographer @sophieelgort⁠

Creative Director @stacyigel⁠

Chair Creator @thevaleriestarart ⁠

Hair & Makeup @thevaleriestar⁠

Location c/o @jimmycrystalny ⁠

Tell us a little about you.

"DENISE IS A BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR AND ADVOCATE, AS WELL AS AN AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST, TELEVISION PRODUCER, AND CO-FOUNDER OF THE MOMS AND MAMARAZZI CELEBRITY EVENTS. SHE IS A PROUD DIVORCED MOM OF TWO INCREDIBLE BOYS AND PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OTHERS IN THEIR FIGHT AGAINST CANCER AND CURRENTLY LAUNCHING HER NEW VENTURE, MY CANCER FAMILY (MYCANCERFAMILY)."

Upon diagnosis, what was your first thought?

It was terrifying. I couldn’t believe it and I remember thinking that I may not be around to raise my kids. That was truly horrifying. They were only 6 and 9 at the time. 

Sometimes it’s hard to “thrive,” we all have days where we are just trying to survive. What is something that gets you through on the hardest days?

I’ve always gotten through hard times by planning things to look forward to.  It can be anything from a trip with my kids, a birthday party or celebration for any and all occasions, a date, a drink with a friend, or a girl's getaway!  

Who is another woman you have admired on this journey that has shared a similar experience with breast cancer/cancer (please type what type of cancer you had/have)? 

There are so many!  My friend Gwen was diagnosed a few months after I was and our treatment was the same so we “went through it” together.  My friend Ashley was also diagnosed a few months after I was but we had different kinds and very different treatments and I almost feel like it’s a different disease but I admire how she went through it too.  There are a lot of women I’ve met through social media I admire all of them for sharing their stories and being open about their own journeys.  Sharing helps others in ways you can’t even imagine. 

We all need a good support system; who makes up yours? 

I have a great family that is led by my mom.  She’s my best friend and my biggest supporter.  My dad and my sister-in-law are also part of my support system along with many close friends.  I have a large family and really incredible friends.  My boys are also great support for me now -  especially because they’re older (17 and almost 14).  We are extremely close and open and honest and talk about everything!

Through your journey, what are some resources you have found that would be helpful to other women? 

I really pieced it all together…and found everything overwhelming and really wanted everything in 1 place.  Doctors tell you not to google, and I tried to listen but it’s so hard not to.  All of my experience led me to where I am today, which is launching a new venture called My Cancer Family.   I want to help others diagnosed with Cancer with resources and information and community in one place.

What is something society gets wrong about young women battling breast cancer and cancer in general? 

Interesting question.  The most important thing is early detection.  Every single doctor should make sure women get screened.  I think there also should be screenings earlier and also more accessible no matter what your health insurance may be.  It’s also important for children of breast cancer patients to start their screening young — even if you don’t have the BRCA gene, family members often should be screened at 25.  There’s very little information “out there” about this.  My nieces, for instance, along with my boys are supposed to get checked starting at 25.  I don’t want to alarm anyone, but if we want to do better, screenings and early detection is EVERYTHING!

You come across another woman who has just received her diagnosis. What is one piece of advice you’d have for them at that moment?

The first thing I always tell every single person who calls or messages me is “this is the hardest time.  The unknown.  The tests.  The appointments.  The unknown path”.  Hopefully, once you have a plan for treatment, the mental and emotional part will slightly ease up.  

Because we have to (we love music here) - what’s the last song you listened to? 

My son’s new song. He’s an aspiring artist and went to the studio this weekend and woke up excited to tell me and share it with me, and said it’s his best one yet. Watch out for him!

Photographer @sophieelgort⁠

Creative Director @stacyigel⁠

Chair Creator @thevaleriestarart ⁠

Hair & Makeup @thevaleriestar⁠

Location c/o @jimmycrystalny ⁠

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Tell us a little about you.

I'm a wife, mommy, daughter, cousin, friend, advocate, country girl, foodie and so much more.  I am the most calm right after prayer and when listening to music.  I love meeting new people and learning their stories.  I am not a surface person, I love to learn what makes people tick, what makes them happy. 

Upon diagnosis, what was your first thought?

How long do I have to live? Who is going to take care of my children? 

Sometimes it’s hard to “thrive,” we all have days where we are just trying to survive. What is something that gets you through on the hardest days? 

Music, I turn on Whitney Houston. Tears have healing power as well.  I also know that you appreciate the good days because bad days exist, so bad days don't last always.

Who is another woman you have admired on this journey that has shared a similar experience with breast cancer/cancer (please type what type of cancer you had/have)? 

I had stage 2 estrogen receptor breast  cancer.  Are you really going to make me name one?  I have a whole  tribe here in Buffalo/Western NY!  You will get me in trouble! LOL. They ALL inspire me, seriously, they are unmatched, one text and they all come running.

We all need a good support system; who makes up yours?

My friends and family, my husband and children!

Through your journey, what are some resources you have found that would be helpful to other women?

Other women, we all need a tribe. The tribe that recognizes when you go quiet and check on you, the ones that bring you meals when you don't feel well or just text I love you when you need it.

What is something society gets wrong about young women battling breast cancer and cancer in general?

That our strength means we don't need anything. That our first "no I don't need anything" means you should stop trying.

You come across another woman who has just received her diagnosis. What is one piece of advice you’d have for them at that moment? 

It's ok to not be ok. You have just gained an amazing sisterhood that you will have for life!

Because we have to (we love music here) - what’s the last song you listened to? 

Actually this week I have been listening to the queen Mary J Blige and I just listened to Mary J Blige Just Fine!!!

Photographer @sophieelgort⁠

Creative Director @stacyigel⁠

Chair Creator @thevaleriestarart ⁠

Hair & Makeup @thevaleriestar⁠

Location c/o @jimmycrystalny ⁠PR BMG

Tell us a little about you! 

"HI! I’m a mom of two boys, a proud wife, and Lifestyle Producer for TODAY with Hoda & Jenna.  I also love Pilates & red wine."

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work? 

"BALANCE is tough. Sometimes, I think it doesn’t exist.  It seems there is always one item, subject, or person that gets more attention. At present, I’m really trying to focus on my family as well as career. My boys will only be young once, so I want to truly enjoy every minute.. One day I’ll look back and think about all these moments at baseball and soccer games, art class, school drop off and pick up, and I’ll wish I could do it all again. I don’t want to miss a thing. Please don’t tell my boss, but when I’m 80, I doubt that I’ll be yearning for all that time in the office. Having said that, I also believe I have a tremendous flexible job and work my tush off. Plus, I think being a hands-on mom makes me a better TV producer."

Name another mom who inspires you? Why? 

"At this stage of my life, there are many inspirational moms in my circle of family & friends - with their own daily struggles doing the best they can and giving it their all each day. I can’t list one – but I can list 50 easily. My own mom inspires me. She always has been, and still is, there for my brothers and me, during our childhood and as adults. She pushes me when I need it. She pushed and inspired me to move to NYC from the Midwest. She encouraged me to set high goals and self-expectations with my career at NBC TODAY. She coached me and had my back when I bought my first home (and third) in NYC. I might never have seen my own potential without my mom. She’s always been my biggest cheerleader and her actions have inspired me to be a better mom to my two boys.  Nobody loves you more than your mom."

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you moving?

"I try to remember when the day is tough, it’s just a phase.  Everything is just a phase. While the phases can be really tough, they, too, will pass. Kevin Bacon once talked about phases in the documentary, “Fatherhood.” I think about it regularly and I believe it’ll stick with me for life. Soon the phase changes and ends and that phase will be a memory in the past.  The next phase will be a challenge for the future."

What’s your pump-up song for starting your day? 

"Right now my pump up song is “Praise the Lord,” by Breland.  I also just love everything about COLDPLAY music."

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world. 

"My son Wyatt was a micro-preemie born at 24 weeks.  The NICU experience is a trauma for any mom & the “Journey Bead” program was developed to help celebrate milestones and to help parents with PTSD. I give my love and admiration to any organization that helps preemies, especially groups that focus on the familial mental needs of parents during those challenging times."

Tell us a little about you! 

"I am a born and bred New Yorker. I am the daughter of Indian immigrant parents who tried their best raising me & my brother in this crazy city — 40 years later I find myself doing the same with my kids. Each day is filled with varying emotions –worry/fear/anxiety balanced with awe/wonder/amazement that they are now part of the fabric of NYC and vice versa."

What do you do?

"I work for Madison Square Garden.   I lead the merchandising strategy for their Christmas Spectacular Show Starring the Radio City Rockettes.  More recently, my husband Mark shot a documentary on the grim NYC pandemic shutdown, called Outside In which also featured my family.  It is making its rounds in a few film festivals and will be showcased at the Producer’s Club on May 16^th at 7pm."  

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work? 

"This is a trick question. At work, to-do lists keep me sane.  At home with family, to-do lists are generally thrown out the window.  Fortunately, my current work environment is filled with women at different stages in their life and career, usually with their own struggles in balancing work and family life.  They are incredibly supportive of familial duties and don’t hold family responsibilities against you. Sounds logical?  Unfortunately, I have been in working environments where this was not the case. It makes you appreciate the added level of support even more!"

Name another mom who inspires you? Why? 

"At this stage of my life, there are many inspirational moms in my circle of family & friends - with their own daily struggles doing the best they can and giving it their all each day. I can’t list one – but I can list 50 easily."

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you? 

"My kids are still very young and full of imagination!  By nature, I am a logical thinker more data driven than creative.  Being around them forces me to think different.  I relish their imagination & creativity.  Santa Claus, Leprechauns, Easter Bunnies, Tooth Fairies…we will be keeping these alive in our household for as long as possible!"

What’s your pump-up song for starting your day? 

"Depends on the day.  Most weekdays, it is just the morning routine playing in my head. On running days, it is The White Stripe’s ‘Seven Army Nation’. On weekends it is Preservation Hall Jazz Band. However, I am currently on a prolonged Hamilton soundtrack kick."

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world. 

"Concern, Doctor’s Without Borders."

Profession?

"Mom wife CEO and founder of Dana’s Bakery."

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work?   

"I get asked this question a lot and after many many years of trying to balance I have come to the realization that balance does not exist! In regards to this topic balance should just be self understanding and forgiveness because you never know what life is going to bring. Each day is different and demands different things. Some days I’m on point when it comes to my kids the next day I’m totally consumed by work other days it’s a mix of both and everything in between. I think we are all just doing the best that we can and as long as we are doing that we are doing a pretty damn good job."

Name another mom who inspires you? Why? 

"All moms inspire me, bring a MOM is one of the hardest and most rewarding jobs there can be. I I rely on my friends when I need them and it goes both ways it’s so important to have that support system. Now that I have two girls of my own I think about my mother often and everything just makes so much more sense now! I have so much more understanding and respect for all that she did for us and all that she continues to do. It’s a deeper level of understanding and appreciation that I don’t think I could ever have if I wasn’t now a mother myself!"

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you going? 

"Not necessarily a quote, but “Give zero fucks” has always been one of my favorites mottos. It fuels me to get after it."

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you?

"After having my girls, I take much better care of myself. I can only be good for them if I am in a good place and I want to be around as long as I possibly can to experience life together."

What's your pump-up song for starting your day?

"Used to be anything in the heavy metal / rock a d roll genre. These days it’s KidzBop or we don’t talk about Bruno (Encanto)."

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world.

• Zara Tisch (terez)

• Aimee Kestenberg 

• Heymama 

Profession?

"I'm an entrepreneur and journalist. I am the co-founder of themoms.com and I'm now a second time founder, and launching mycancerfamily.com - a health and wellness tech platform to support and help cancer patients and their families."

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work? 

"I think everyone's "balance" or "all" is different.  Balance for me, may not work for you. Balance for me one day, may not work for me another day. Because I'm divorced, I have always felt that I have balance because my kids go to their dad 1 night a week (sometimes 2) and every other weekend. So the nights they are with me, I am fully focused on them, and the nights they are with their dad, I'm fully focused on me! So I feel like I have the best balance!"

Name another mom who inspires you? Why?

"YOU (Stacy Igel)! Seriously. I always say you are one of my favorite people I don't know enough and I mean It. I have followed you on social media for years and you inspire me with your support of other mom entrepreneurs, and as I have learned more about you, it's truly amazing what you have built, continue to build and do it all while supporting important causes and other moms and entrepreneurs."

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you going? 

"Many days are tough but I truly believe those days make you stronger. My mom recently said to me, after hearing bad news about a close family members cancer diagnosis, "Denise, you're always so strong.  Maybe you don't always have to be." But that doesn't occur to me. I truly believe when things are tough, to find ways to find the positives and keep going. When I was going through a tough and aggressive cancer journey and treatment, I always planned fun things and adventures to look forward to. It got me through it. It hurts me more to support others going through tough times. I'm dealing with that now and trying to be strong but it was easier for me to get through tough times for myself than others. I guess I know how awful it can be and don't want others to experience what I have been through."

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you?

"My kids are my everything. My kids have been through so much at such a young age. Divorce, remarriage that wasn't easy for them (but good now), a sick parent etc...and of course a pandemic, so my kids have been through everything and are thriving. They have such love in their life and are so resilient and wise and empathetic that I truly believe they are better for all the tough times and will become such stars in whatever they do. They inspire me every day and I know they also do that for their peers and every one around them. I'm so proud."

Ask your child/Children, what is their favorite thing about their mom? 

Jaylan, 13 - "Mom is supportive loving and will always help us with anything and everything possible."

Jaron, 17 - "She understands the mistakes we may make."

What's your pump-up song for starting your day? 

"Classic rock and anything other than rap :). My older son Jaron is an artist, so I also love to listen to his songs!"

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world. 

"I'm very involved in a lot for cancer non-profits, as a survivor.  American Cancer Society, Susan G Komen and so many others like Unite 4 Her, Wigs for Wishes.  I'm a sucker for non-profits and anyone who reaches out, especially with a cancer connection will get me!!!!"

BOY MEETS GIRL® MEETS ARTIST MEETS ARTIST. 1ST NFT COLLABORATION

⅓ OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE NFTS ARE GIVEN BACK TO THE ARTISTS AND 30% OF THE NET PROCEEDS FROM BOY MEETS GIRL® EARNINGS WILL GO BACK TO THE CHICAGO ABORTION FUND.

BOY MEETS GIRL® (BMG) has partnered with 11 women artists including the founder of BOY MEETS GIRL® Stacy Igel making it 12. All artists range from photographers, illustrators, designers, and even an actress/voice-over artist all Women in Web 3.0. This NFT collaboration of artists meeting artists launched on BOY MEETS GIRL®’s Foundation Site → https://foundation.app/@boymeetsgirlusa. 

At the heart of BOY MEETS GIRL® over the past 20+ years is collaboration, community, and giving back. To celebrate some of the incredible women artists in Web 3, BOY MEETS GIRL® wants to help amplify their work. What better way than using our iconic logo as a container for their art where they “meet” each other to create a unique 1/1 NFT and tell a story together. 

BOY MEETS GIRL® X STACY IGEL X AMI ANKIN 

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Stacy Image: Sweet Home Chicago

I grew up in the city of Chicago and moved to NYC right after college to fulfill my dreams of working in the fashion industry. Chicago is where I was born. My roots are from the midwest. This image represents the city from the skyline to the new bean that was built while in college, to symbols of donuts and deep dish pizza along with imagery of the Bulls logo on a tattoo of a girl. The girls in this image are Chicago Girls with big dreams. Thus, when I asked Ami to collaborate with me on the GIRL image it made perfect sense as her image captures the heart of NYC. To me, the Girls in my illustration are looking from Chicago to NYC with the embodiment of strength to pursue the big city. 

Inside the GIRL: Ami Image: Mind Over Manhattan

The view from the top of my building in NYC. On this particular day the sky was telling quite a story to compliment the sea of electricity surging through the streets below. A sliver of a moment that will never repeat. Above the noise, there is peace, there is perspective. A reminder of the dream and fire that brought this Chicago girl to NY many years ago. The Empire State and the Chrysler beacon from behind, as the Freedom Tower and Ellis Island points us ahead. Stacy’s illustration speaks to my story as well. Chicago gave me the blueprint to live the brightest boldest life in NYC. Always take that quiet moment above the noise to get perspective and appreciate your journey, hope lives there.

BOY MEETS GIRL® X ANTARES X @STACIEABUHLER 

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Antares Image Inspiration: Roses for Your Heart 

I grew up watching my mom get roses and love roses. It was her thing. When my parents got a divorce, the roses stopped coming. It was sad. That’s when my sister and I stepped in. We decided to continue to give her roses. We now give her roses for her birthday, for Mother’s Day, when she doesn’t feel well, and just because. Roses are also beautiful as they die. They have an elegance that is unspoken. I guess you can say roses are my mother’s favorite and it was my way of trying to heal her heart back together when everything fell apart. 

Inside the GIRL: Stacie Image Inspiration: Growth

This work is inspired by the symbolism of flowers. From birth, we must be nurtured, and as we grow we learn to take care of ourselves. We must take the time to care for ourselves to fully blossom and grow. And then, just like that, a flower can be plucked. Life is precious. 

BOY MEETS GIRL® X RACHEL WILKINS X @LORIGRACEAZ 

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Rachel Image Inspiration: “Us” 

“Us” explores the beauty of possibility and the belief that we are all connected. Any one of us can change the world, challenge the status quo, spark new ideas, or inspire others to take action. Progress comes from doing the unconventional.

Inside the GIRL: Lori Image Inspiration: “Never Give Up”

Here's a description from that day:  The story describes the inspiration I have to be tenacious in chasing these storms, no matter how small the chance of success.  

July 13, 2019, 7:53 p.m. a small farm in southern Arizona.

Days go by where I pursue stormy skies and wind up with nothing. On this day every attempt to capture lightning ended as a failure. But I didn't give up. I waited to see if anything else would happen near sunset, and just like that, a small storm developed south of Eloy, Arizona. I arrived just in time to see not only lightning but a beautiful, pastel-colored sky exceeding any prior expectations I had. Never give up.

BOY MEETS GIRL® X Talia Zoref X CC: Ann Li 

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Talia Inspiration: “BOLD”

I aim to create art that will be a source of Joy and positivity using vibrant colors to bring passion, energy and life and character to my paintings. I am inspired by the contrast between the colorful and fun fashion world and the judging eye on us as creators, women, and dreamers. I created a fun but critical view of the fashion world, where creative, free and original characters coexist with judgmental and critical figures. These illustrations were first created at a time when I was disturbed by the subject of judgment, and I felt the need to address it through my art. I expressed my feelings through eyes-only dialogue characters, to which I added curly and long lashes that are hallmark of my illustrations .The illustration for BMG was inspired by the wonderful and vibrant artist I was paired with, Ann Li sketching a pink dress with blue eyes prints on it. I love exploring different types of techniques and media such as digital illustration, Watercolor, Acrylic on Canvas, Spray mixed media and Marker. I enjoy painting with my fingers as well as sketching bold fast lines and strong colors when I get into a meditative state.

Inside the GIRL: CC: Ann Li Inspiration: “Self-sacrifice”

The work questions the ritual of self-sacrifice in an age where everyone is a brand. Via the persona "CC" (@play_w_cc,  ongoing, 2014 – ) — a fake “influencer” with cannibalistic tendencies; a succubus who comes to the artist in a fever dream, only to steal away with her face as she sleeps  — Li uses social media performance on Instagram and the blockchain to critique the landscape of influencer culture from its own terrain. Unlike the artist, “Cc:” is ruthless: it is immune to the psychological pain of devouring itself. Calmly, it eats its own flesh in the endless cycle of self-commodification on social media, in sushi “mukbangs” made from decoupage, in the feeling of unraveling and raveling again and again, until it finally games the algorithm. 

Medium: Sushi Mukbang (process image/video still, VIMEO link below). Inkjet face on printer paper, decoupage on foam to create “sushi”, decoupage on upcycled drink cans/chopsticks/table top to create set; stop motion video still, digital assemblage.

“Girl” is digitally assembled from a video still of stop motion 4D piece“Sushi Mukbang” 

BOY MEETS GIRL® X Bri Ro Art X LOST GIRLS METAVERSE

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Bri Ro Art Inspiration: Soothing Sounds

I grew up in a beach town. I remember the boats in the harbor floating by as the sunrise took on various colors on different evenings. I’m very inspired by Japanese art and the skyscapes often portrayed in their textiles. I wanted to add a dab of all of that to this piece, a very faint image of the boats in the water, but also tying in the beautiful muted sunset with the pink moon. The combination of a dark navy teal with a tangy muted pink/org. feels felt like the perfect soothing blend of the waves I adored crashing on the shoreline. 

Inside the GIRL: LOST GIRLS METAVERSE Inspiration: Mindfulness  

“She wonders how the sky makes peace with every storm and clears itself like nothing ever happened.

Much like her mind, she drifts between peace and tempest. Allowing herself to dream is her escape.

Being still. Being patient with herself. Breath by breath, shielded by the pink night skies she is safe to dream.”  

BOY MEETS GIRL® X SOPHIE ELGORT X @ADRIANAILLUSTRATION

NFT AVAILABLE HERE.

Inside the BOY: Sophie Image “Floating Lips”

I've always been fascinated with lips, all the different shapes, and sizes. Each pair with a different story. Inspired by Adriana's illustration, I went back into my archives and found lips I've photographed over the years and cut them out into a collage. 

Inside the Girl: Adriana Image “Diverse Lips”

I love the ethos of BOY MEETS GIRL® which promotes equality and, inclusivity; this is very much aligned with the vision of the NFT community and I wanted to show it through my artwork. Since I am a fashion illustrator, I decided to portray it through diverse women who represent different women and minorities, feeling empowered and beautiful by applying lipstick.

“Throughout my career and over the past 20+ years building BOY MEETS GIRL®, collaboration, community, sharing stories and giving back has meant everything to me. I started my brand when I was 23 years old and still love what I do every single day! It has never been an easy road but what makes it incredible is the artists, musicians, creators, innovators, gamers, activists, and more I get to work with every single day and give back to at the same time. I have been down the road in various forms from pre-web, web 1, web 2, and now Web 3. I have been asked to work with several companies to launch our first NFT project, but I did not want to rush into anything as I have learned that by taking things slower and learning we can get further and to a better place. As I approached my NFT journey over the past 5 months, I took time to listen, learn, contribute, collect, and create. In this process, I was lucky enough to meet the incredible artists who have joined forces with me in this collaboration through our many twitter spaces which I host with 3 of our creators on this project one of them being my best friend who also on-boarded me Ami Ankin and Stacie A Buhler and Lori Graceaz. I was also lucky to meet one of our creators Adriana IRL when she came in from Poland and sat with her in NYC speaking our creator language and seeing eye to eye. After our meeting, I had a call with Adriana about collaborating and shared with her some of my many past collaborations from work with the Human Rights Watch, NBA Bulls and Atlanta Hawks, Survivor Corps, Smiley, Just Dance, Care Bears, and more. I told Adrianna I wanted to include all of the incredible women I got to meet in Web 3 into a project and Adrianna said I got it, “how about one artist puts their work in the BOY  logo and the other artists put their work in the GIRL logo.” And I said,’ HELL YES. THAT IS IT. That is WEB 3.0. It is the act of collaborating all together and helping amplify the work of others. I have always done that through my brand and beyond thrilled to do this with all these artists!” Curating these artists together was super special for me. “ _STACY IGEL

This is a 1/1 limited edition NFT project which means only one item will be available to buy. With the sale of these NFTs starting at 1 ETH the buyer of the NFT will receive 1 limited edition BOY MEETS GIRL® hoodie designed with the artwork. One claim only, not applicable to the secondary sales of the NFT. A portion of the sale of the NFT goes to each artist and 30 % of the net proceeds from BMG is being donated to the Chicago Abortion Fund. 

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

ABOUT STACY

STACY IGEL is the Founder & Creative Director of BOY MEETS GIRL®, a global brand, launched in 2001 and known for its iconic boy and girl silhouette logo and purposeful, edgy, contemporary athleisure wear. In addition to the brand’s cult celebrity following, including Rosario Dawson, Mindy Kaling, Nina Dobrev, and Kendall Jenner, Stacy has also been at the forefront of fashion collaborations and has had exclusive partnerships with Paris’s colette, Bergdorf Goodman, Care Bears, Smiley, NBA’s Chicago Bulls, and Atlanta Hawks, Roots Canada, Saks Fifth Avenue, Target and many more.  Through Stacy’s passions for music and philanthropy, she collaborates often with artists such as—Justine Skye, Wyclef Jean, and Natasha Bedingfield, to name a few—and organizations such as the Survivor Corps, Impact Lebanon, GLAM4GOOD, Young Survival Coalition, The National School Climate BullyBust program, Planned Parenthood, Human Rights Watch, and many more. Stacy & BOY MEETS GIRL® has been featured in publications including InStyle, Elle, Teen Vogue, Allure, Seventeen, Women’s Wear Daily, and The New York Times, among many others. Above all, both Stacy and BOY MEETS GIRL® seeks to further the message that confidence and courage are trends that never go out of style. As a leader in the fashion industry, she also writes her Behind the Seams™ with Stacy Igel blog and co-created and co-hosted the podcast #MOMSGOTTHIS for mompreneurs started in May ‘18 (featured on Forbes as a “women created podcast everyone should be listening to right now”). In less than a year, the podcast was ranked top 25 on iTunes. She is a frequent lecturer and panelist on subjects like social media, philanthropy, branding, and entrepreneurship. Stacy lives in New York City with her husband Brian and their son Dylan. And Stacy’s Book will be released under Harper Collins this March 2023.

ABOUT AMI 

Born and raised in Chicago, Ami Ankin is an actress and producer working in theater, film, and television, splitting time between NYC and LA. 

As a voice-over artist, Ami can be heard on several promos ranging from Late Night with Seth Meyers on NBC to The CW, PBS, and the WNBA. Dozens of national commercial campaigns and even Presidential ones. Ami produced the award-winning film, The Living Wake, starring Mike O’Connell, Jesse Eisenberg, Jim Gaffigan, and Ann Dowd. In the NY theater world, she has worked with John Patrick Shanley, Beau Willimon, Brooke Berman, and James Frey. Ami was on the producing team for the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, Kinky Boots. 

Being a multi-hyphenate, Ami is constantly looking for ways that allow artists the freedom and producers the ease to create. Last year when discovering NFTs and Web3, she became fascinated with the new ways technology can foster fresh opportunities. Ami is a part of many communities in the space and is further exploring how Web3 can complement her work in entertainment, all the while hoping to empower and encourage women to blaze their own trails. Several exciting things to come, stay tuned.

ABOUT ANTARES

Antares Vargas is a passionate storyteller, a proud Mexican immigrant, and an entrepreneur. She attended USC Marshall Business School and ended up working in the entertainment industry writing, producing, and editing television content. She has produced and edited shows for many major networks and streaming platforms including Amazon, HBO, Fox, Disney, TBS, NFL, BET, Oprah etc. In 2017, she launched her production company Keep That Productions, to tell the stories of underrepresented communities and voices. Antares has extensive experience producing and editing on major award shows for Fox, MTV, and BET. 

When she isn’t on set or in post-production, you can find her with a camera in hand capturing moments, people, and places. She has been taking photos since she was 14 years old and uses photography as an escape and a way to freeze moments in time. She started a project called My Roots to use her powerful images to eternalize the matriarchs in her family on the blockchain forever. Antares has minted and dropped two photography collections on Opensea. Her work is a photographic journal of her favorite images taken in the last 10 years. She is also the founder of The Tokens, the premier NFT Community Awards. A show meant to unite, highlight, and connect the NFT Community through Twitter Spaces. 

She has taken the Web 3 scene by storm and is becoming a trusted voice in the community using levity and kindness to connect with others. Antares is relentless and ambitious, ready to leave her dent in the world, one image, one story, and one production at a time. 

ABOUT STACIE

Stacie a Buhler is a fashion photographer, NFT digital illustrator, and marketing enthusiast based in Los Angeles, California. 

Stacie‘s photography work has been published in over 50 publications throughout the world including Vogue Russia, NYLON magazine, PAPER magazine, and L’Officiel Austria to name a few. Her clients are throughout the world. Photo work for brands like Savage X Fenty by Rihanna, Meatless Farm X Nikki Glaser, Swimsuits For All, B&H Photo, and many more. 

Buhler created the digitally illustrated NFT brand THE UGLY NFTS. This includes her sold-out collection UGLY BETTYS, and the UGLY BERTS collection. With much more on the way… 

In just 5 months Stacie has built a Twitter community with over 13.5k followers. Her enthusiasm for community and marketing go hand in hand. Stacie often speaks on marketing at conferences and events nationwide. 

ABOUT RACHEL

Rachel Wilkins creates intuitive and thoughtful compositions using mixed-media iconography, acrylic paint, and digital rendering. Wilkins's Work has been featured in numerous exhibits in New York City, featured on USA Networks TV shows, Royal Pains, and is in the private collections of international art enthusiasts. 

Wilkins took a decade-long hiatus from creating her work to build Conception Arts, an organization that has helped over 8,000 artists exhibit and sell their work internationally. While her artistic career took a back seat, Wilkins gained critical acclaim for her work championing other artists earning a ‘Woman of Influence’ Award from the New York Business Journal in 2016, 40 Under 40 LGBTQ Leaders in 2020, and, Out East-end LGBTQ Leader award in 2021. Wilkins also serves as a mentor for New York City’s NEW MUSEUM incubator program, NEW INC.

ABOUT LORI

Lori Grace Bailey is a professional wedding/portrait photographer who also enjoys chasing extreme weather and extraordinary skies. Lori's work has appeared in major publications and television outlets including the current issue (2022, Issue 3) of Cosmopolitan Magazine as well as theMarch/June 2021 issue of Backpacker Magazine.  Lori is a brand ambassador for F-Stop Gear. Whether chasing supercells and tornados in the mid-west, haboobs in the southwest, or elusive sprites when conditions are right, Lori’s passionate dedication of pursuing extreme weather allows her to consistently capture vivid and evocative imagery unique to her craft.  Lori is also the director of Monsoon Con, an annual convention in Tucson, Arizona that brings together photographers and weather enthusiasts alike with an emphasis on storm chasing with success.  Finally, Lori is a dedicated NFT artist whose work can be found on Foundation and OpenSea.   Lori is a founding member of BFF (@myBFF) and Nvak Collective (@nvakcollective), a DEIBA Advisor for HUG @thehugxyz, and is the Community Ambassador for Habit Nest's NFT Learn to Earn project The Phoenixes (@ThePhoenixesNFT).  

Lori is a Hispanic transwoman dedicating much of her time to elevating artists by hosting Rug Radio's  “Elevating Women in NFT” Twitter Spaces focused on supporting and onboarding women, lgbtqI+, and other marginalized groups into the NFT space.  

ABOUT Talia Zoref

Talia Zoref has become known for creating Art during Fashion Weeks worldwide and meeting and sketching celebrities such as Kendall Jenner, Celine Dion and Mariah Carrey. She has been featured in many prestigious publications including Vogue, NY Times, Forbes and more. Talia has also collaborated with iconic brands such as Chanel, Fendi, and MAC. Colors, passion and creativity perfectly describe the art Talia creates. Talia's NFT Art project Eyes of Fashion recently launched, a collection of 8,888 unique fashion illustrations that was inspired by the contrast between the colorful and fun fashion world and the judging eye in the industry. The public sale of the collection sold out in two minutes. Our mission is to bring more inclusion into the world of fashion, elevate and empower strong women artists, and educate women to participate in the joy of NFTs.

About CC: Ann Li

“I heard somewhere once that to know what someone is afraid of losing, watch what they photograph. So let me take a selfie.” Cc: Ann Li is an interdisciplinary digital media artist. Through self-portrait performance, autoethnography, installation, and stop-motion animation, her work orbits two spaces of mutual delirium: the internet, and her own psychology. She grew up Chinese American on the east coast, where she completed her BFA from Penn State. She received her MFA from California College of the Arts in 2021, where she was a recipient of the Ginny Kleker Award, the Thesis Prize, and the Barclay Simpson Award. She works as a full-time creative both on and off the blockchain.

ABOUT Bri Ro Art

Bri Romano is a 15-year Full-Time International Award Winning Photographer + Multidisciplinary Artist. Her main focus and accolades have been celebrated in Fine Art and Conceptual Photography. Bri is currently evolving her artworks and imagery into the Metaverse and Web 3 - continuing to bring her unique multi media visions to life. Bri has expressed color, shadows, lines, architecture, and poetry play a large role in bringing inspiration to her artworks.

ABOUT LOST GIRLS METAVERSE 

Francesca is the artist behind LOST GIRLS METAVERSE  and is a self-taught illustrator from the UK. Using

digital illustration as an escape during the global pandemic, she specializes in drawing the female form

in dreamlike skyscapes. Francesca has recently launched her NFT project LOST GIRLS METAVERSE, creating

feminine illustrative NFTs that gives access to an intimate community of women in web3.  

ABOUT SOPHIE 

Sophie Elgort is a photographer and director born in New York City. Her photographs have appeared in Paper Magazine, Vogue Thailand, Teen Vogue, Rolling Stone, Elle Magazine and The Financial Times among other publications. She has made images and films for brands including BOY MEETS GIRL(R)l, De Beers, Alice + Olivia, Victoria's Secret and Maybelline and worked with celebrities including Rosario Dawson, Daveed Diggs, Brooke Shields, Kylie and Kendall Jenner, Rebecca Dayan, Cuba Gooding Jr., and more. In December 2020 she began shooting The Mask Portrait Series, a visual storytelling of how we might remember this moment in time, celebrating the beauty and courage that is the New Yorker. Her fine art photography is represented by the Staley Wise Gallery.

Sophie was previously named to Forbes' 30 under 30 list in the Art and Style category and to The Daily Front Row's, 12 New Wave Creatives Moving Fashion Forward. Sophie has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times and Good Day New York among numerous other magazines, newspapers, TV shows and podcasts. Alongside her photography, she also contributes to a variety of media outlets as a photography and fashion expert and media personality both on-air and online. She is also a frequent public speaker, including at the Rubin Museum of Art, Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), Pratt Institute, and Brown University among other places and has been a guest judge for The All American High School Film Festival and most recently the 70th Annual MissUSA Pageant.

ABOUT ADRIANNA

British and Polish multi-disciplinary fashion NFT artist, Adriana (Adriana Krawcewicz) was born in Poland in the late 80’s. Adriana has worked in visual and musical mediums focusing on female empowerment through her artwork. Adriana pioneered NFTs on the fashion and art worlds is one of the fashion artist pioneers in the NFT industry, where she uses her art, creative direction, music, video and fashion to meditate on the personal and the universal journey. Adriana's recent exhibition 'Now Fashion Time' at the Warsaw Station Gallery of Art was the first physical NFT exhibition on fashion illustration in the world. Adriana has been invited to speak on numerous international NFT panels, both virtual and in person and has quickly become known as an expert in this brave new world. Also acting as an advisor for on Hewlett Packard, Valde Beauty, Middlesex University London. Aside from the SOA  her work has been shown at NFT.NYC, Digital Fashion Week NYC). Adriana graduated from London College of Fashion in 2014 with BA in Fashion Illustration. After stint at Hunger Magazine, SHOWstudio and Lulu Guinness she refined her graphic skills and cultivated a unique visual style. Adriana quickly became an in-demand fashion illustrator and art director. Her clients include Oscar De La Renta, Ted Baker, Roberto Cavalli, Tod’s, Vogue and others. With the growing popularity and interest in Non-Fungible-Tokens, Adriana is excited  to introduce brands and clients and individuals to creating NFTs, as the space is unlimited in its capacity to create unique artistic vision.

ABOUT THE CHICAGO ABORTION FUND

The mission of the Chicago Abortion Fund is to advance reproductive autonomy and justice for everyone by providing financial, logistical, and emotional support to people seeking abortion services and by building collective power and fostering partnerships for political and cultural change.

We envision a world where everyone has the freedom and autonomy to create lives, families, and communities that are healthy, safe, and thriving and where the full range of reproductive choices, including abortion, are accessible and affirmed.

Profession? 

"I am a food and beverage entrepreneur, a broadcaster and a writer.  I'm the CEO of Frisky Whiskey, I host and produce TV news segments and I contribute food, beauty, style and wellness articles for Scary Mommy and HuffPost."

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work? 

"I cannot lie I don’t really have the answer to “how” I stay organized bet work and family life because I almost never feel completely “organized” and most days I’m not sure if I’m balancing or just riding the wave.   What I can say is that when it comes to work life and home life I’m nothing without my family. Having an extremely supportive husband whose always willing to pitch in on the home front (and at times the work front) definitely helps.  I also have to shout out my cousin Matt Moreira who literally gets me together.  He is my eyes and ears and anytime I’m even close to organized, it’s because of him."

Name another mom who inspires you? Why?

"Can I name 2?!  Lisa Ling inspires me.  She is a CLINICin time management and making the most of the time with your children.  She travels the world, tells the most compelling stories for a living and is imparting that worldly knowledge on her two beautiful daughters. The second is my own mom, who inspires me every day by being the most supportive, encouraging cheerleader a child could ever have. There is nothing more motivating than the support of your parents."

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you going?

"It's incredibly cliche but for me, "Rome wasn't built in a day" is KEY.  I remind myself everyday that staying committed to my goals and busting my ass until they've come to fruition is the only way they're going to come to fruition. Period."

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you? 

"My son Cole is such a determined little guy and his persistence and fearlessness inspires me every single day. I'm also kind of inspired by and in awe of his long eyelashes."  

Ask your child/children, what is their favorite thing about their mom?  

"Cole says his favorite thing about me is when we play with dinosaurs together and read our stories."

What's your pump-up song for starting your day? 

Lights Camera Action (Remix), Mr. Cheeks featuring Puffy and Missy Elliot

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world.

• Every Mother Counts.

• Black Mamas Matter Alliance 

• Women Business Collaborative

Tell us a little about you!

"I'm a mom of 2 littles and a lover of food."

Profession?

"Journalist."

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work?

"The truth is, I don't. But, like all working moms out there, I try my best. It definitely takes a village."

Name another mom who inspires you? Why?

"I'm inspired by so many moms and so it’s difficult for me to choose just one. Let me put it like this: I have mom-friends out there who are so on top of their family’s schedules and routines – and I become instantly inspired by how they’re able to maintain that level of organization and structure. I also have mom-friends who run global companies and accomplish major career milestones while also being able to dedicate time to their families, and so I get inspired by them. Then, I have mom friends who are so connected with their kids, who spend the time and the energy to understand and learn about them, and I'm inspired. There's no shortage of these moms and when I see any of them, it inspires me to be a better mom."

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you going?

"Ninjas never quit." - my 6 year old daughter

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you?

"My kids are two of the most interesting and confident people I've ever met. They push me to learn and think about things in a new light. Most importantly, they force me to be present in the current moment."

Ask your child/children, what is their favorite thing about their mom? 

"I love when my mom plays games with me." - E, 3 yrs old

What's your pump-up song for starting your day?

"Currently, I meditate on the Core App to get pumped up!"

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that gives back to women and/or momma's around the world.

• AAPI Women Lead

• Best Buddies

• No Kid Hungry

Tell us a little about you! 

"I am a mom of a 7 ½-year-old who is growing way too fast :( I am the Founder & CCO of BOY MEETS GIRL® And I am currently writing my memoir/business book under Harper Collins. The pub date is March 2023! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.”

Balance is key. How do you stay organized between family & work? 

“Covid changed my perspective on it all. I do not think there is a defined word for balance in my world but I have found how to compartmentalize work from family and friend time. I have accepted that I am doing my best and that is all I can do.”

Name another mom who inspires you? Why?

“My Mama but also my Sister who is a Mom and all the other Moms I know who have had to find a way to cope during a global pandemic. I am in awe of the Moms who are nurses and doctors and what they have done for our world during covid. They showed up to help others even if they had children at home. They are our heroes."

Some days are tough, what's a quote that keeps you going? 

“I wrote a song during rough times which I have shared on my social. The start of it goes “I woke up this morning and got out of bed. I looked at the sun and I looked ahead. I believe in you if you believe in me. Together we will see.”

#ChangeMakerMoms make #FutureBoss kids - how does your child inspire you?

“Dylan asks me questions that make me think even more. He is like a sponge wanting to know all about the world. I am inspired by his thirst to learn. I am also inspired by his wanting to succeed in everything he does and do the best he can do.”

What's your pump-up song for starting your day? 

“Most recent (as my songs always change) is a song from the movie Coda. It is originally by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell. This version is by Emilia Jones & Ferida Walsh-Peelo.”

Drop some organizations you are passionate about that give back to women and/or momma's around the world. 

Some incredible organizations run by momma’s … Mama Said, Hey Mama’s, The Mom’s Network, NYC Moms for a Cause, In Kind Boxes and so many more.