Black To Business

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, there are pioneers who shape industries, and today, we're delving into the journey of one such trailblazer—Alvin Jones. Recently honored at the Hip Hop Awards, Alvin is not just an industry veteran; he's the visionary creator behind Rap City, a cultural touchstone in the realm of hip-hop storytelling on Black Entertainment Television (BET).   Alvin's impact goes beyond the beats. For nineteen years, Rap City was the heartbeat of the record industry, providing a platform for rappers to share their stories authentically and making hip-hop a relevant force. As we celebrate the 50th year of hip-hop, the recently premiered Rap City documentary on BET takes center stage, offering a retrospective on Alvin's influence.   Join us as we unravel the layers of Alvin's journey, exploring the evolution of Rap City, the enduring power of storytelling in hip-hop, and the blueprint he offers for entrepreneurs navigating uncharted territories.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: D

In the bustling aisles of toy stores, a father of three, Matthew Goins, confronted a familiar predicament. On a mission to find puzzles reflecting the diversity of his family, he was met with disappointment – rows of generic images that failed to capture his children's uniqueness.   Undeterred, Matthew, a three-time Howard graduate with a background in tech HR, turned frustration into fuel, embarking on a journey that transformed his personal quest into the thriving entrepreneurial venture we now know as Puzzle Huddle.   Join us in this episode of the Black To Business podcast as we dive into the vibrant world of Puzzle Huddle. It's not just about success; it's about resilience, innovation, and the profound impact of community support. Matthew Goins shares the challenges, triumphs, and strategic moves that propelled Puzzle Huddle from frustration to a thriving business in a mere two years.   Matthew Goins' accolades speak volumes about Puzzle Huddle's impact – featured in major retailers, endorsed by Oprah, a

Embarking on entrepreneurship in an industry resistant to change is like navigating uncharted waters, where the odds are stacked against success. In this episode, we unveil the strategies for this entrepreneurial expedition with trailblazer Mahisha Dellinger, who defied the norms of the natural hair care industry with CURLS.   Mahisha founded CURLS in the early 2000s, challenging preconceived notions and proving that innovation thrives even in seemingly saturated markets. As CEO and Founder, she pioneered the natural hair care market, making CURLS one of the first four brands to launch in Target in 2002. Over two decades, CURLS has become a recognized brand in major retailers like Target, Sally Beauty, and ULTA, reaching international markets in Canada, Brazil, Africa, and the UK.   Mahisha's success story is remarkable, reflecting her astute business acumen. Today, CURLS stands as a multi-million dollar brand, offering products tailored to diverse textured hair needs, resonating across age ranges, regions, a

In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, traditions often play a defining role in shaping industry norms and practices. For many, entering a traditional market can feel like stepping into a time capsule, where established conventions are deeply rooted and resistant to change. The narrative often echoes sentiments of skepticism and caution, questioning whether innovation and modernization can truly find a place in sectors entrenched in tradition.  Now, consider Obi Omile Jr., a disruptor navigating this dynamic landscape with theCut, rewriting the playbook of a traditional industry—the barbershop business. Obi, listed on Forbes 30 Under 30 and a Techstars '18 alum, brings a wealth of experience from the tech and financial services sectors. His journey unfolds in an industry steeped in tradition—the barbershop business. However, his story is not just about transforming haircuts; it's a testament to challenging norms, infusing innovation, and crafting cutting-edge customer experiences.   DURING THIS EPISO

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, the concept of building a business with friends often raises a few eyebrows. The common wisdom suggests that mixing business with personal relationships can be a recipe for disaster. However, in this episode of the Black to Business Podcast, we're diving deep into a fascinating and often underestimated aspect of entrepreneurship - the Friendship First Mentality.   Shannon Jones and Yadira Harrison, co-founders of the flourishing hybrid consultancy and agency, verb., are here to challenge the misconceptions and share their remarkable journey. Their story is an inspiring testament to the idea that building a bond with your business partner, particularly if they're a friend, can be the secret ingredient to creating a successful business.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why building a strong bond with your business partner before you lay the foundation for your business matters. The tangible benefits of a friendship-first approach in business, dispelling the myth

In the hustle and bustle of today's entrepreneurial world, where opportunities are vast but challenges can be overwhelming, resilience and operational efficiency are the keys to unlocking success. Black entrepreneurs, particularly those navigating the world of business for the first time, must equip themselves with the knowledge and strategies to thrive, overcome obstacles, and make their mark. Operational efficiency is the key to sustainable growth. As an entrepreneur, your resources, both in terms of time and money, are limited. Operating efficiently means making the most out of what you have. In this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into optimizing your operations, streamlining processes, and boosting productivity.    Our guest, Sam Pierre, Managing Partner at SMP Global Consultants, a prominent Black-owned management consulting firm, shares his extensive knowledge and expertise in government affairs, energy, and healthcare administration. Sam guides us through the vital role of management consulting

In the journey of a Black entrepreneur, financial stability is often the cornerstone of success. As you navigate the path to building your business, you face unique challenges and opportunities. The financial decisions you make today can pave the way for your future. This is not just about managing your money; it's about understanding the nuances of banking as a Black entrepreneur.   In this episode of the Black To Business podcast, we're delving deep into this critical topic, one that directly impacts the lives and aspirations of Black entrepreneurs: "Banking on Your Business: Building a Strong Financial Core." We have the privilege of being joined by a true expert in the field, Kelly Ifill, the founder and CEO of Guava. Guava is a digital banking and community platform tailored explicitly for Black small-business owners, and Kelly's mission is to provide a pathway to bridge the financial gaps in the Black entrepreneurial community.   In a world where the racial wealth gap remains a stark reality, we'll expl

In the world of entrepreneurship, there's a unique journey many are familiar with. It's the path where you're holding down a demanding job while nurturing the dream of building your own business. Today, we're delving into the art of balancing ambitions – a topic that strikes a chord with many budding entrepreneurs. Our guest, Morgan Chavis, is a testament to the delicate dance between corporate success and entrepreneurial aspirations. She'll be sharing her experiences of rapidly climbing the corporate ladder while nurturing her dream of entrepreneurship, shedding light on the intricate balance between ambition and reality.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: The art of pursuing your passion and climbing the corporate ladder simultaneously The unique hurdles faced when transitioning from corporate success to entrepreneurship Strategies to effectively balance the responsibilities of a demanding job with your entrepreneurial ambitions The role of efficient time management in overcoming initial challenges

In the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship, the path to success is paved with not just innovative ideas and business acumen, but also with the clarity of an authentic and influential CEO voice. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, it's crucial to grasp the power of authenticity, self-discovery, and likability in shaping your leadership identity and the ultimate destiny of your business.   Join us in this illuminating episode as we delve deep into the art of building an authentic and influential CEO voice tailored specifically for the entrepreneurial world. Our guest, L. Michelle Smith, is not only an accomplished author, speaker, and leadership coach but also a seasoned expert in evidence-based coaching. Her approach is rooted in the scientific underpinnings of positive psychology and neuroscience, making her the ideal guide for entrepreneurs seeking to thrive in today's competitive landscape. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: About the science-backed foundation of authenticity and why it's a game

In this exciting live recording of the Black to Business Podcast, we bring you an engaging panel discussion from our "Black Men Who Lead” event, which marked the grand finale of this year’s series, "The DNA of a Black Businessman." We took this show on the road to the nation's capital, Washington, DC, and hosted this event at the iconic Shanklin Hall. In this insightful discussion, we celebrate the extraordinary journeys, challenges, and triumphs of Black male entrepreneurs who have left an indelible mark on their industries. Our panelists, each a trailblazer in their own right, share their stories, strategies, and invaluable insights into entrepreneurship.   MEET THE PANELISTS: Obi Omilie Jr., recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 List, is the Co-Founder of theCut App. With a background in software engineering, Obi has navigated the tech and financial services industries, making a significant impact with his innovative approach. Damon Dixon, a Growth Marketer extraordinaire and Founder of douxds, has mast

In the world of entrepreneurship, especially for Black entrepreneurs, there's a constant struggle to balance authenticity with the need to succeed in established markets. Many of us feel like we have to hide parts of ourselves to fit in. But what we told you that being your full, authentic self is your golden ticket? In this episode, we're diving into a topic that's especially relevant for those who've ever felt like they had to dim their light to make it in a new space. Our guest, Brandon Rochon, is a branding and design expert who's worked with iconic brands like Coca-Cola, Samsung, and Red Bull. He's here to show us that bringing your full self into the market is not only possible but incredibly valuable.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: How to build a strong brand identity for your business as a new or first-generation Black entrepreneur. Strategies for becoming a valuable asset when freelancing or contracting for larger organizations. The power of infusing your culture into your work and how it

In your entrepreneurial journey, you've poured your heart and soul into building a brand that resonates with your audience. You've cultivated a vibrant community, created compelling content, and put your unique stamp on the digital landscape. But as your influence grows, so do the challenges that come with it. In this episode, we delve into essential aspects of brand resilience and protection. We're joined by Bobby Robinson, a seasoned legal professional and entrepreneur with a remarkable track record. He's worked at the intersection of law, technology, and entrepreneurship for over 15 years, with several multi-million dollar ventures under his belt. Bobby's expertise as a business and social media attorney uniquely positions him to guide you through the intricacies of protecting your brand in the influencer landscape.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: How to view your influence as a business opportunity and not just a personal pursuit. Strategies for protecting your brand's integrity and intellectual p

Diving into a new endeavor always presents challenges & difficulties. When you try a new sport for the first time, you’re bound to not catch the ball, miss your target, or not get the time you were pushing for. But, that doesn’t mean you give up and stop trying. If it’s something you care about, then the positives and the negatives will be worth it. All of this also applies to being an entrepreneur. And Darnell Jones can speak to the perspectives of being an athlete & a business owner. Today’s episode focuses on how to take experiences from your past and apply them to what you’re currently working on. Before founding two businesses, Darnell played professional basketball on the West Coast. Although he wasn’t keen on having his sports career end, Darnell always believed that he had a bigger purpose than just being an athlete. Once he got the opportunity to build his companies, he never looked back. Even if athletics aren’t your forte, Darnell shared some amazing insights into creating a business from t

  Imagine you've just launched your startup. You've poured your heart and soul into creating a fantastic product or service. You've set up your social media profiles, posted diligently, but despite your efforts, your business struggles to gain traction. This scenario is all too familiar for many entrepreneurs who are heavily dependent on social media algorithms. In this episode, we'll dive into the world of escaping the algorithm and explore how to grow your business beyond the confines of social media.   Meet Our Expert Guest - Lorene Cowan: We are thrilled to welcome Lorene Cowan to the podcast. Lorene is not only a Certified Business & Life Coach, but she is also a Visibility Strategist with an impressive background. Holding a Master’s Degree in Business Management from Harvard University, Lorene has the expertise and experience to guide entrepreneurs toward successful marketing and sales strategies. Her insights have been featured on prestigious platforms, demonstrating her mastery of entrepreneurship

In this episode, we're diving into the dynamic intersection of diet, productivity, and hustle culture with a leading expert in the field of nutrition, Vanessa Risseto. Vanessa is a registered dietitian and the founder of Culina Health, a telemedicine platform that's transforming the way people approach nutrition and health. With her extensive experience in treating various health conditions through diet and her deep understanding of the impact of diet on productivity, Vanessa offers valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and anyone looking to optimize their diet for peak performance.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Debunking diet myths and understanding how nutrition can amplify your hustle. Tailoring your diet to your unique journey and avoiding the comparison trap. The hustle-food connection: Why knowing your nutrition is your superpower. Vanessa's tips to stay consistent with your diet amidst your busy hustle. Navigating the food-productivity link: Fueling your body for bus

When we buy from brands that resonate with us, we’re able to pinpoint the messages they want to relay to their customers & understand the brand’s core values. Although creating packaging is a lengthy process of trial & error, it can be reduced by having a well-defined brand identity. Working to establish a brand identity is important for all business owners because it also applies to logos, website design, digital marketing, and fundraising. Today’s guest, Aaron Swinton, is here to give us all of the details we need to design successful packaging. For small Black-owned businesses, brand identity is fundamental because there’s an opportunity to compete in a larger market. Also, you can cater products to Black consumers, which is an audience you know very well. Aaron founded MAVRK Studio to partner with businesses and assist them during the process of advancing their brand. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: How to define your brand identity Cost-efficient ways to improve your brand design Elements

Niche is a word that can be seen all over social media attached to a variety of topics. It describes something that appeals to a specific group of people. Because of how popular it is, its impact has been watered down. Fortunately, today’s episode will revive it and put a new lens over it! We’re applying it to businesses and Jonathan Mclean is the expert on the ins and outs of how a niche can expand your brand. There are so many benefits to focusing on a niche, especially for Black businesses. And don’t think you won’t receive clients for the niche you create. There are always customers looking for specialized products and services that stand out. Jonathan’s expertise comes from building his aesthetic healthcare recruiting firm, where he’s learned that people will pay top dollar because his business is good at what they do. If you’re looking for more details about niche businesses, then make sure to tune into this episode! DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why niche businesses are significant for Black entr

Starting a business is an exciting endeavor, but it comes with its fair share of challenges, especially for Black and women entrepreneurs. One of the ways to address these challenges and unlock incredible growth potential is through MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) certification. In this episode, we are joined by a distinguished expert, Sheena Thomas, who brings over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity and certification programs.   As the first Black woman Executive Director of the only two regional certification agencies in Texas, Sheena has been at the forefront of certifying over 40,000 combined applicants annually. Her extensive knowledge and expertise make her the perfect person to discuss the importance of MWBE certification and its impact on minority-owned and women-owned businesses.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:  The Importance of MWBE Certification Overcoming Common Misconceptions and Hurdles in the MWBE Certification Process What MWBE Certification Can Do for

On this episode of the Black to Business Podcast, we have Dr. Karwanna D. Irving on the podcast to fill us in on all things related to government contracts! If you know anything about them, you’re aware of how tedious & intricate the process of getting a government contract is. Because of this, it’s common for entrepreneurs to quit in the midst of the process, even though the end goal is very rewarding. Today’s guest is here to convince you that every second put towards obtaining a government will be incredibly worthwhile for your small business.   As noted in the episode, Dr. Karwanna is devoted to providing small businesses with ample opportunities to expand their brand, especially Black businesses. She recognizes how important it is for Black entrepreneurs to know how to promote their business.   Staying organized & staying focused on your personal end goal are two things Dr. Karwanna knows will lead all business owners to success. With over 20 years of experience in the business field, she shares

In this solo episode, Monique shares her invaluable insights on the significance of setting expectations in your business. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Monique understands the power of clear expectations and how they can lay the foundation for success. With her recent experience of smoothly onboarding 17 new interns, Monique is eager to share practical tips and real-life scenarios that will empower you on your entrepreneurial journey. Get ready to be inspired and take your business to new heights with Monique's wisdom on the importance of setting expectations.   THINGS YOU WILL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE:   The importance of setting expectations in business as a rock-solid foundation for success, providing clarity, direction, and alignment for everyone involved. How expectations foster a culture of accountability, where responsibility and commitment drive increased productivity and efficiency. The significance of mitigating confusion and miscommunication through clear expectations, creating a harmonious w