The Ultimate Luxury Morning Routine (CEO Energy)
By The Addison Suite | Luxury Lifestyle + Power Habits
There’s a difference between waking up… and arriving.
A luxury morning routine isn’t about doing the most it’s about moving with intention, discipline, and calm authority. True CEO energy isn’t loud. It’s structured. It’s focused. It’s effortless. It’s the ability to walk into any room already aligned, already prepared, already ahead.
Welcome to The Ultimate Luxury Morning Routine—built for high performers, tastemakers, founders, executives, and men who move like the world is watching.
1) Wake Up With Purpose (No Chaos, No Rush)
Luxury begins with control. The first decision of your day sets the tone for every meeting, every call, every move.
CEO Rule: Wake up early enough to lead the day not chase it.
Addison Suite Tip:
Set your alarm to a sound that feels elevated soft, clean, intentional. No panic alarms. No chaos energy.
Your first 60 seconds:
Sit up slowly
Deep breath
Say one sentence: “I move with purpose today.”
That’s how power starts.
2) Hydration First—Because Your Body Is Your Brand
Before caffeine, before conversation, before checking the world give your body what it needs.
The Luxury Standard:
Room temperature water
Add lemon or minerals
Sip, don’t rush
Hydration improves:
mental clarity
skin glow
digestion
energy levels
When you look sharp, you move sharper.
3) Quiet Time = Executive Advantage
Silence is a luxury most people don’t protect. CEOs do.
You don’t need a 60-minute meditation retreat. You need 5–10 minutes of mental ownership before the day tries to own you.
Choose one:
Prayer
Meditation
Breathwork
Journaling
Visualization
CEO Energy Move:
Picture your day like a film trailer your outfit, your confidence, your conversations, your wins. Then step into it.
4) Movement That Matches Your Lifestyle
Luxury fitness isn’t about punishment. It’s about performance and longevity.
Your body should reflect your discipline, not your stress.
Choose your morning movement:
20-minute walk (outdoor, sunlight)
light weights + stretching
Pilates or mobility training
boxing or conditioning (for high-energy days)
The Addison Suite Standard:
Move like you’re preparing for a boardroom and a photoshoot.
5) Cold Rinse or Contrast Shower (Instant Upgrade)
This is the fastest way to activate your nervous system and sharpen your edge.
Luxury version:
warm shower
cold rinse for 30–60 seconds back to warm
This boosts:
alertness
confidence
resilience
skin tone
CEO energy is built in discomfort—then worn like a tailored suit.
6) Grooming Like a Power Player (Because Details Matter)
The world doesn’t just respect success.
It respects presentation.
Your grooming routine should be simple but elite.
Non-negotiables:
skincare (cleanser + moisturizer)
fragrance (signature scent)
clean nails
fresh haircut schedule
teeth + smile confidence
Luxury Tip:
Invest in a high-quality grooming setup your bathroom should feel like a private suite at a five-star hotel.
7) Dress With Intention (Not Trend)
Your outfit isn’t just clothing. It’s communication.
CEO energy is:
clean lines
premium fabrics
fitted silhouettes
timeless colors
quiet confidence
Whether you’re wearing a tailored suit, a cashmere set, or luxury streetwear your look should say:
“I’m not trying. I am.”
8) A High-Performance Breakfast (Or a Clean Fast)
Luxury doesn’t mean heavy.
It means intentional.
Pick one based on your body and schedule:
Option A: Power Breakfast
eggs + avocado
Greek yogurt + berries
protein smoothie
oatmeal with almond butter
Option B: Clean Fast
water + electrolytes
black coffee or tea
light movement
first meal later
CEO Rule:
Eat for energy, not comfort.
9) Your 10-Minute CEO Planning Session
This is the moment you separate yourself from average.
Before you open email, before you respond to texts, before you get pulled into noise plan the day.
Write down:
your top 3 priorities
one high-value call to make
one relationship to strengthen
one win you must secure today
CEO Energy is simple:
Win the day before the day starts.
10) Luxury Boundaries: No Social Media for the First Hour
If you start your day consuming everyone else’s life, you’ll delay building your own.
Your mind is a penthouse.
Don’t let the internet move in rent-free.
The Addison Suite Rule:
No scrolling until you’ve:
hydrated
moved
groomed
planned
Then you can enter the world.
The Addison Suite CEO Morning Routine (Quick Version)
If you want the luxury routine in a clean checklist:
Wake with intention (no chaos)
Water first
Quiet time (5–10 minutes)
Movement (20 minutes)
Contrast shower
Grooming + fragrance
Dress with purpose
Power breakfast or clean fast
Plan the day (Top 3 priorities)
No social media for 60 minutes
Final Word: CEO Energy is a Lifestyle
CEO energy isn’t about showing off.
It’s about showing up consistent, sharp, prepared, and unshakable.
Luxury isn’t loud.
Luxury is discipline with style.
And at The Addison Suite, we don’t just watch greatness we live it.
Join The Addison Suite VIP Access
Want private invites, elite recommendations, luxury experiences, and exclusive brand moments?
Become part of the world of The Addison Suite.
Luxury isn’t a dream. It’s a decision.
Stay connected. Stay elevated.
Cullinan Series II Cigar Night Experience
An Iconic Night of Craft & Celebration
An evening defined by elegance, craftsmanship, and refined indulgence marked the celebration of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II a true icon of modern luxury.
Guests were welcomed into an immersive Cigar Night experience curated to honor the launch of the Cullinan Series II, setting the tone for a night where sophistication met atmosphere. From the first moment, the event embodied the spirit of Rolls-Royce: intentional, elevated, and unforgettable.
The evening unfolded with the artistry of fine cigar rolling, allowing guests to experience the ritual and craftsmanship behind premium cigars firsthand. A live Latin jazz band filled the space with smooth, rhythmic sounds, creating an ambiance that was both vibrant and refined. Tray-passed gourmet appetizers circulated throughout the evening, complemented by a thoughtfully curated bar display designed to enhance the cigar experience.
Every detail was intentionally selected to mirror the Cullinan Series II itself—bold yet elegant, commanding yet composed. This was more than a launch event; it was a lifestyle moment that celebrated excellence, design, and the joy of shared luxury.
Building on the momentum of the Rolls-Royce Grand Opening, this event further strengthened meaningful partnerships and set the stage for future collaborations rooted in quality, experience, and prestige.
The Cullinan Series II Cigar Night served as a powerful reminder that Rolls-Royce is not simply about automobiles—it is about moments, craftsmanship, and a standard of living reserved for those who expect nothing less than extraordinary.
MFK Private Event
An Evening of Elegance: Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian at Saks Phipps Atlanta
Atlanta’s style set gathered at Saks Fifth Avenue Phipps Plaza for an unforgettable private soirée celebrating one of the world’s most coveted fragrances—Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian. The night was a true reflection of sophistication, artistry, and modern luxury.
Guests were welcomed into an intimate setting where the air was infused with the unmistakable scent of Rouge 540—a fragrance that has become an icon of allure and refinement. Attendees indulged in personalized fragrance consultations, sipped on elevated cocktails, and enjoyed gourmet bites while mingling with tastemakers, fragrance enthusiasts, and luxury connoisseurs.
The evening was more than a celebration of scent; it was an immersion into the Maison Francis Kurkdjian lifestyle—a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, emotion, and timeless elegance.
A night to remember, curated for those who appreciate the art of luxury living.
The Elegant Gatsby-Themed Affair & Celebrity Golf Classic
A Star-Studded Roster Attended the Elegant Gatsby-Themed Affair & Celebrity Golf Classic including Cuba Gooding Jr., Ja Rule, Jason Lee, Kevin Harrington, Johnny Bananas and more! Celebrity Sports Entertainment, The Money Team Hosted the special Anniversary Weekend to Help Raise Money for multiple charities & organizations in need.
Long Island’s exclusive Golf Classic weekend returned this summer with another impressive lineup of celebrities and athletes. Mr. Michael Mak, President and Founder of Celebrity Sports Entertainment and James McNair, president and founder of The Money Team, proudly a who have joined us this year, including 1-800- Liquors, Bucked Up, Apple Ice, CBD Healthcare Co., Dusse Cognac, Tequila Comisario, Natura Cigars,Chamello Sunglasses. Gran Coramino, Royal Wine Corp providing wine and spirits.
CSE’s action-packed weekend features a Celebrity Golf Tournament benefiting their cause, D-Up-On-Cancer. The weekend offers ticket holders and guests access to CSE’s special guest DJs, a casino room, fireworks show, open bar, dinner gala, auction/raffle, and entry to the Oheka Castle grounds. Pop-up shops, a red carpet step and repeat, and a cigar lounge will also be available, creating a lavish Great Gatsby atmosphere.
Some of your favorite celebrities will be joining in the celebration including Cuba Gooding Jr,. Ja Rule, Kevin Harrington of Shark tank, Michael Blackson, Jason Lee, Tyson Etinne, Johnny Bananas, Tyson Etienne, Plaxio Buress, Dina Khoury and more.
We are thankful for our sponsors who have joined us this year, including 1-880- Liquors, Tequila Comisario, Bucked Up Energy, Dusse Cognac, Natura Cigars, Gran Coramino, Royal Wine Corp providing wine and spirits.
To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, email sponsors@cse.team..
To inquire about sponsorship opportunities next year please email media@cse.team.
The Rising Star of Comedy
Mark Orintas is a stand-up comedian and full-time fragrance industry retailer based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Known for his razor-sharp wit, unapologetic candor, and richly personal storytelling, Mark delivers comedy that is as smart as it is fearless. Touring throughout the Eastern U.S., he takes audiences on a hilariously honest ride through the unfiltered realities of gay aging—from injectable enhancements and awkward encounters to the unexpected adventures of reaching what he affectionately calls his “Beekeeping Age” years.
Drawing from a deeply personal archive of life experiences—including his journey through conversion therapy, the path to self-acceptance, and the comedic chaos of midlife—Mark blends biting humor with heartfelt insight. Whether he’s roasting the myths of eternal youth or celebrating the messy beauty of growing older as an “awkwardly aging hottie,” Mark’s comedy is as thought-provoking as it is side-splitting.
With each performance, he redefines what it means to age out loud, laugh with abandon, and find meaning (and mischief) in every chapter of life.
Gracefully Stumbling Thru Beekeeping Age” premieres at Lavender Fest at Out Front Theatre Company in Atlanta on Friday July 18th 8:30pm
Casey Smith
Casey Smith is deeply invested in both the mission and values of Merchaneer, combining a strong business sense with a deep commitment to relationships, faith, and philanthropy.
Casey and Merchaneer President, Clint Feher, are the two Principals of the company. Casey and Clint joined forces at the start of 2022 to begin building Merchaneer together. Clint and myself are both of strong Faith and both are former college athletes who grew up in a winning culture and around TEAM 1st environments. Casey's Dad and Grandfather are both Hall of Fame Coaches in the Alabama High School ranks. Clint's father, Butch Feher, was an All-SEC Guard at Vanderbilt and spent time playing in the NBA for the Phoenix Suns. Butch Feher also serves as Merchaneer's Chairman of the Board. Clint, Butch and their families reside in Chattanooga, TN.
The connection between Casey, Clint, and their shared history of leadership in high-performance environments is also clearly key to their approach in building the company.
They blend leadership philosophies from icons like Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, and Nick Saban, which speaks to their ambition and drive to scale the company and create a lasting impact. These philosophies include:
Work super hard every day, focusing on the process instead of the result. Create great products or solutions of service
Recruit great people 1st and people who work well together to create great products, services and partnerships
Approach building relationships from the long-term point of view
Be the light
The inclusion of their family and faith-centered values also gives the company a unique, purpose-driven culture. The work ethic is certainly evident in their commitment of 60-100 hour work weeks to build Merchaneer from the ground up.
Merchaneer's momentum has continued to ramp up with the addition of an All-Star cast of shareholders and advisory board team, plus two integral operating partners from fintech, Merchsneer COO-Steven Heselius and EVP of Sales Jordan Donmoyer, shows they’ve built a solid leadership team, not just in terms of business acumen, but also in heart. The philanthropic efforts, especially with the partnership around Lucy’s Lemonade Stand Charity in honor of Jordan's late daughter Charlotte, show that they’re using their success to make a tangible difference, which adds a deeper layer of purpose to their work.
Titans of Tequila
In the competitive world of premium spirits, Tequila Comisario has emerged as a distinguished brand, celebrated for its exceptional quality and innovative approach. At the helm of this success are two visionary leaders: Luis Cota, the President and CEO, and Steve Rice, a key partner and investor. Their combined expertise and dedication have propelled Tequila Comisario to the forefront of the tequila industry.
Luis Cota's journey into the tequila business was serendipitous. In 2012, during an NBA All-Star Game after-party, his partners, Rick Darnell and Steve Rice, noticed the overwhelming popularity of a small tequila booth amidst more prominent brands. This booth featured Tequila Comisario, a brand meticulously developed just a few years prior. Recognizing its potential, Cota and his partners acquired the brand in 2014. Under Cota's leadership, Tequila Comisario has become the most awarded brand in the industry since its release, a testament to its unparalleled quality and craftsmanship.
Central to Tequila Comisario's acclaim is its distinctive production process, which mirrors the principles of fine wine-making. The agave plants, averaging seven years of age, are carefully harvested to ensure optimal maturity. Post-distillation, the tequila undergoes a 36-hour oxygenation process, enhancing its smoothness and mouthfeel without compromising the natural agave flavors. Aging in two to three-year-old barrels imparts subtle notes of crème, nougat, vanilla, and honey, resulting in a well-balanced and sophisticated spirit. Steve Rice, alongside his partner Gavin Maloof, brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence that has been instrumental in Tequila Comisario's growth. Their hands-on approach ensures that the brand maintains its integrity and continues to resonate with consumers seeking premium tequila. Rice emphasizes the importance of trust and authenticity in business relationships, values deeply embedded in the company's culture and operations.
Tequila Comisario's dedication to quality has not gone unnoticed. The brand has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Best in Show Award for its Reposado expression. These honors reflect the meticulous attention to detail and passion that Cota, Rice, and their team invest in every bottle.
Looking ahead, Cota and Rice have ambitious plans for Tequila Comisario. They aim to expand the brand's international presence and are considering taking the company public. Their vision encompasses not only growth but also a continued commitment to producing a tequila that stands as a symbol of sophistication and artistry.
In an industry often dominated by mass production, Tequila Comisario distinguishes itself through a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The leadership of Luis Cota and Steve Rice exemplifies how passion, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of perfection can create a legacy that transcends the ordinary, offering consumers an elevated tequila experience that is both authentic and extraordinary.
Exploring the Craftsmanship of Tequila Comisario
Danica McKellar Celebrates a Fabulous 50th Birthday in Style!
Stars came out to Nashville to celebrate our favorite girl next door, Danica McKellar for her 50th Birthday!
Nashville, TN.-Great American Family Channel actress and our favorite girl next door, Danica McKellar, recently celebrated her 50th birthday in style at Conrad Nashville! The beloved actress, well known for her role as Winnie Cooper on "The Wonder Years" and for her popular Christmas movies, marked this milestone by performing a surprise ballroom dance number for her guests, a passion she discovered as a contestant on "Dancing with the Stars," followed by a group salsa with instructors that the entire party enjoyed in the fun “salsa disco” atmosphere.
The lively celebration began with Danica greeting her guests in a disco ball
-inspired gown by Dress the Population and the event was attended by family and close friends, many wearing sequins (as per the invitation!) Guests included fellow Great American Family stars Candace Cameron Bure and Jesse Hutch, and also actresses Melissa Joan Hart, Bethany Joy Lenz, Erin Cahill, Melissa Ordway, and more.
"Dancing truly lights up my soul and gives me a powerful motivation to stay in shape. I really think it keeps me young in mind, body and spirit!” said Danica.
Following the dancing, Danica was serenaded with "Happy Birthday" and presented with a beautiful golden cake from Berries n Cream. The evening continued with music by Nashville's resident DJ BOOM, appetizers from Conrad's Thistle and Rye, and drinks provided by Lipman Brothers, Danica Rosé & Gruvi sparkling non-alcoholic wines, Le Kool Champagne and more.
Amidst the festivities, guests marveled at Danica’s youthful appearance and energy.
“I don’t feel 50, whatever that means. Or maybe I do feel 50, and it’s just better than I thought!” She added, “Honestly though, when people ask me my secret to staying young, I can’t say there’s one silver bullet. It’s all the boring stuff - healthy eating, moderate exercise, drinking lots of water, getting enough sleep, and staying away from all the stuff you know is bad for you. It’s not rocket science, but it does take discipline. I’ve heard that staying fit is 80% diet, 20% exercise, and that rings true for sure. In terms of the specifics? I have never really had much alcohol, maybe like one drink a month? I stay away from gluten, dairy, sugar, and anything greasy or artificial. I figure if I treat my body well, it will treat me well. I thank God for the life I’ve been given, and I want to honor that by taking care of myself the best I can.”
She later confessed, “In terms of wrinkles, I’ve never done Botox. I did try filler once on my smile lines about 10 years ago - it was so painful and totally not worth it - and smile lines just mean you’ve been smiling, after all! So nothing like that, but I do use Frownies, those little patches that stick to your forehead when you sleep. And I moisturize my face and neck throughout the day, and try to stay hydrated.”
In lieu of gifts for herself, Danica requested that guests join her in making a donation directly to Thistle Farms.
Danica also purchased gift bags from Thistle Farms, a non-profit organization that empowers women survivors of human trafficking that she will donate to the Nashville rescue mission.
The event was organized by PR Firm Cathy Cardenas PR & Events (http://www.cathycardenas.com/) and its sponsors, including Conrad Nashville (https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/bnaleci-conrad-nashville/?SEO_id=GMB-AMER-CN-BNALECI&y_source=1_Mjc3MjkzMTgtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D), Llanes Photography (https://www.partyupballoonco.com/), Party Up Balloons (https://www.partyupballoonco.com/), Berries & Cream, Dress the Population Amy Schromm Photography, Details Videography, Danica Patrick Rosé Wine, Lipman Brothers, Chicken scratch pilsner, Nash IPA, Lonely cow wine, Reva’ wine and Le Kool champagne.
Additional approved press photos are available at
request. Danica can be seen alongside Trevor Donovan in her first faith-based movie, “Grounded,” on Great American Family channel this Spring.
For more information or additional photos, please contact Cathy Cardenas at Cathy@CathyCardenas.com.
THE WORLD’S BEST TEQUILA
Founded by Tequila connoisseurs who believe that small-batch, top-shelf spirit expressions elevate a spirit from ordinary to extraordinary, Tequila Comisario has a reputation built on a pure passion for agave spirits and a commitment to crafting the world’s best tequilas from its facility in the Los Altos golden triangle region of Jalisco, Mexico.
The brand is a shining example of a perfect, premium tequila that captivates the senses through redefining the art of distillation. Unique from seed to sip, the company isn’t a “celebrity” tequila and focuses efforts on creating ‘The World’s Best Tequila.” From the first sip, Tequila Comisario drinkers can taste the company’s devotion to heritage and quality. There are more than 200 species of agave, and Tequila Comisario is crafted from 100% Natural agave Tequilana - or more commonly known as Blue Weber Agave.
Native to Mexico, the Blue Weber Agave is grown in rich, red soil on Tequila Comisario’s estate, the plants are harvested at the very peak of perfection and filled with flavor and sweetness to provide the foundation of each bottle of Tequila Comisario’s unique flavor. A carefully selected blend of flavors and aspects that highlight the spirit’s natural character, Tequila Comisario uses a special extraction method that eliminates flavor contaminants to deliver a pure, unfiltered flavor. From there, the Tequila enters a barrel-aged maturation process, where every expression is carefully evaluated and refined to achieve uniqueness and perfection.
Elegant, balanced, elevated, Tequila Comisario’s distinguished spirits portfolio has won more than 53 industry awards and is available in the four expressions that are well-known to tequila drinkers worldwide: Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and Extra Anejo. Perfect to be sipped or included in a cocktail, all varieties are handcrafted, double distilled, cold filtered, oxygenated, aged in artisanal oak barrels and additive-free. Tequila Comisario partners with the best and brightest in music, film, sports, entertainment, events, science and more to educate spirits drinkers on what makes a premium tequila. The company has cultivated a “Comisario Club,” that connects tequila lovers, shares dates of sponsored Tequila Comisario events and opportunities to participate in the company’s philanthropic initiatives to elevate spirits throughout the year. “for more information on ‘The World’s Best Tequila,’ please visit
Women's Image Awards Honors Legendary Artist Melissa Ethridge and So Many others at the Beverly Hills Hotel!
To celebrate outstanding film and television that also promotes the value of women and girls at The Beverly Hills Hotel on October 23rd The Women's Image Network (WIN) presented its annual Women's Image Awards. The brilliant evening was hosted by Loni Love who was also a winning nominee. Both activist honorees received standing ovations as they arrived onstage. Filmmaker Maria Cuomo Cole picked up the Humanitarian Honor while rockstar Melissa Etheridge accepted The Living Legend tribute. Melissa also won a WIN award for her Paramount+ feature documentary film I’M NOT BROKEN.
The show presenters included: Roy Orbison, Jr. Adrienne Maloof, Peggy Lu, Emily Tosta, Malynda Hale, Asa Orbison, Lucy Walsh, Dana Goldberg, Saint Heart and Caren Spruch. After two singer presenters, Lucy Walsh and Malynda Halle, broke into acapella singing lines from Melissa Etheridge songs, when Living Legend honoree Melissa Etheridge arrived onstage, she spontaneously also sang acapella, and the crowd went wild. The Nashville-based musical guestBekka Bramlett performed two songs with her band.
The 26th Annual Women's Image Awards Film & Television Winners:
Made For Television Movie / Limited Series Lessons in Chemistry
Actress Made For Television Movie / Limited Series Loni Love Binged To Death
Drama Series Fallout “The End”
Actress Drama Series Carrie Preston Elsbeth “Pilot”
Comedy Series Shining Vale “Smile”
Actress Comedy Series Leslie Bibb Palm Royale “Pilot”
Documentary Film (Feature Length) I’m Not Broken
Documentary Film (Short) Last Song From Kabul
Film / Show Producers Suzy Beck, Hannah Beir, Adrienne Gallagher, Caroline Cannon, Erin Leyden, Lucy Sexton, Jalaine Edwards, Kati Fernandez Full Court Press “Down to Business”
Film / Show Writer Joanna Johnson Good Trouble “What Now?”
Film Director (Feature Length) Joie Jacoby Candace Parker: Unapologetic
Film Director (Short) Nazenet Habtezghi Birthing A Nation: The Resistance of Mary Gaffney
Series Director Nancy Schwartzman Sasha Reid and the Midnight Order “I Think My Ex-Husband Is a Serial Killer”
Reality Series Caught In The Act: Unfaithful
Actress Reality Series (tie) Jessica Alba, Lizzy MathisHonest Renovations
& Tami Roman Caught In The Act: Unfaithful
Animation Series Harley Quinn “Gotham’s Hottest Hotties”
Actress Animation Series Kaley Cuoco Harley Quinn“Gotham’s Hottest Hotties”
HUMANITARIAN HONOREE Maria Cuomo Cole
LIVING LEGEND HONOREE Melissa Etheridge.
About Living Legend Honoree Melissa Etheridge:
Melissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which led to an appearance on the 1989 Grammy Awards show. For several years, her popularity grew around such memorable originals as "Bring Me Some Water," "No Souvenirs" and "Ain't It Heavy," for which she won a Grammy® in 1992.
Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album, Yes I Am (1993). The collection featured the massive hits, "I'm the Only One" and "Come to My Window," a searing song of longing that brought Etheridge her second Grammy® Award for Best Female Rock Performance. In 1995, Etheridge issued her highest charting album, Your Little Secret, which was distinguished by the hit single, "I Want to Come Over." Her astounding success that year led to Etheridge receiving the Songwriter of the Year honor at the ASCAP Pop Awards in 1996.
Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America’s favorite female singers for more than two decades. In February 2007, Melissa Etheridge celebrated a career milestone with a victory in the “Best Song” category at the Academy® Awards for “I Need to Wake Up,” written for the Al Gore documentary on global warming, An Inconvenient Truth. As a performer and songwriter, Etheridge has shown herself to be an artist who has never allowed “inconvenient truths” to keep her down.
Earlier in her recording career, Etheridge acknowledged her sexual orientation when it was considered less than prudent to do so. In October 2004, Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer, a health battle that, with her typical tenacity, she won. Despite losing her hair from chemotherapy, Etheridge appeared on the 2005 Grammy® telecast to sing “Piece of My Heart” in tribute to Janis Joplin. By doing so she gave hope to many women afflicted with the disease.
On October 7, 2016 Melissa Etheridge released Memphis Rock & Soul, her first album since 2014’s critically lauded This Is M.E. Recorded at Royal Studios in Memphis, the album received stellar reviews from the likes of Entertainment Weekly, Parade, Rolling Stone, American Songwriter and more. She followed that up with the release of The Medicine Show in April, 2019. For The Medicine Show, Melissa reunited with celebrated producer John Shanks and sounds as rousing as ever, bringing a new level of artistry to her 15th studio recording.
In June of 2020, Etheridge launched The Etheridge Foundation to support groundbreaking scientific research into effective new treatments for opioid use disorder. The Foundation works towards advancing treatment approaches that address the root causes of opioid abuse and make available better, more effective solutions for people to truly heal their opioid use disorder. October 2022 saw Melissa’s return to the theatre with her one woman show, My Window – A Journey Through Life.
The critically acclaimed, sold-out run premiered at New World Stages on October 13 and opened at Circle In the Square Theatre on Broadway in September 2023. This year, Melissa release Melissa Etheridge: I’m Not Broken, a two-part docuseries (Paramount+) and accompanying live album. Recorded live within the grounds of the Topeka Correctional Facility the album and two-part docuseries follows her journey both penning and performing an original song inspired by her correspondence with TCF featuring raw and rousing versions of specially curated fan favorites and original songs.
About Humanitarian Honoree Maria Cuomo ColeMaria Cuomo Cole is a Peabody and Emmy award-winning documentary film producer recognized for making social impact on highly relevant issues with compelling artful storytelling. Throughout her career, Cuomo Cole has served marginalized populations and helped them gain empowerment by documenting and giving voice to their stories.
Before making professional documentaries, Cuomo Cole led HELP USA, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations providing homes and services for the unhoused including families, veterans, survivors of violence, and people living with HIV/ AIDS. Under her stewardship, the organization grew from its NY roots to building and operating seventy-five residences nationwide, serving over 600,000 people.
A firm believer in the power of art to influence hearts and minds, her role as a professional producer began with her 2009 short documentary, Living for 32, about the tragic gun shooting on the Virginia Tech University Campus. The film which was short listed for an Academy Award®, aired on Showtime and was distributed by BBC Worldwide, launched The National College Campaign to End Gun Violence and achieved national social impact. A long-time activist for safer gun laws and board member of The Brady Campaign to End Gun Violence, she continued to make films on the subject of gun violence, which she describes as “a public health epidemic in the United States.”
Together with director Kim Snyder, she most recently produced the short documentary, Death By Numbers, a moving story of trauma and resilience, written and narrated by Samantha Fuentes, a survivor of the tragic 2018 shooting at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. In 2019, the film team released Us Kids, about the young advocates that emerged from the devastating school shooting in Parkland, preceded by Lessons of a School Shooting: Notes from Dunblane, and Newtown in 2016. After broadcast on PBS, Newtown was theatrically distributed across the country and streamed by Netflix International.
Inspired by her work with families and veterans fleeing domestic and sexual violence, she supported filmmakers Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering as an executive producer of the highly acclaimed featureThe Hunting Ground in 2015 and the Oscar®- nominated The Invisible War in 2013. Both films were recognized for ground-breaking investigations into the epidemic of sexual assault and rape on college campuses, and in the military, and served as a catalyst for state and federal policy reforms.
Ms. Cuomo Cole has been recognized for her civic efforts by esteemed organizations including, The American Red Cross, The Eleanor Roosevelt Medal of Honor, The Brady Campaign, John Jay College Criminal Justice Award, The New York Women’s Forum, the Women in Communications MATRIX Award and The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation.
Ms. Cuomo Cole is a Democratic National Committee member and holds leadership roles on the boards of national organizations devoted to equity and empowerment.
She lives in New York with her husband, designer Kenneth Cole where they raised their three daughters. Emily, Amanda, and Catherine.
About Women’s Image Network
Founded in 1993 by filmmaker, Phyllis Stuart, Women’s Image Network creates, applauds and shares stories because powerful and excellent media builds inclusive and tolerant communities. For more information, please visit www.thewinawards.com.
For Press contact cathy@cathycardenas.com208-713-3573