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Black to Business

246 episodes - English - Latest episode: 25 days ago - ★★★★★ - 50 ratings

Join us as we chat with some of today's top entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders within the Black community as they share tips and resources to help start and grow Black businesses.

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Episodes

205: Wired For Success: Solutions to Close the Digital Divide w/ Antwon Alsobrook

June 20, 2024 04:04 - 1 hour - 108 MB

In today's world, access to high-speed internet is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. But what happens when entire communities are left behind in the digital age? This episode of the Black to Business Podcast tackles the critical issue of the digital divide that plagues many Black communities and stunts entrepreneurial growth. Our guest, Antwon Alsobrook, is leading the charge to change that and ensure everyone has the broadband access they need to succeed.   As a Black entrepreneur, i...

204: Beyond Venture Capital: Alternative Funding Paths for Black-Owned Businesses w/ Rodney Williams

June 13, 2024 08:00 - 53 minutes - 72.9 MB

When you think about funding your business, venture capital might be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, for Black entrepreneurs, accessing traditional VC funding can be an uphill battle, with less than 1% of VC capital going to Black-owned businesses. This episode of the Black to Business podcast dives deep into alternative funding paths that you can take to build and grow your business without relying solely on venture capital. Rodney Williams, the co-founder of SoLo Funds and other s...

203: Cultivating Success in Black Entrepreneurship Through Financial Literacy w/ John Hope Bryant

June 06, 2024 10:07 - 1 hour - 85.1 MB

Financial literacy isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and building a rock-solid foundation for success and economic empowerment, particularly within the Black entrepreneurial community. This episode is all about unlocking the potential of Black entrepreneurship through the amazing power of financial literacy. We’ve got the one and only John Hope Bryant on board to guide us through a journey into resilience, empowerment, and long-last...

202: How to Navigate Isolation As An Entrepreneur & Find Your Community w/ Shadé Akande

May 30, 2024 08:00 - 40 minutes - 55.2 MB

Isolation is a common struggle for entrepreneurs, especially for Black business owners who face additional barriers and fewer resources. Finding a supportive community is crucial for mental health, staying informed, and fostering innovation. This episode dives into the importance of overcoming isolation and building your network to thrive both personally and professionally.   Joining us to discuss this vital topic is Shadé Akande, the Founder and CEO of ONE X LEAGUE. With over 18 years o...

201: A Black Entrepreneur's Guide to Navigating the Alcohol & Spirits Industry w/ Dia Simms & Erin J. Hall ofPronghorn

May 23, 2024 08:00 - 57 minutes - 78.6 MB

Navigating the alcohol and spirits industry can be complex, especially for Black entrepreneurs. Monique sits down with industry leaders Dia Simms and Erin J. Hall to discuss how you can break into this lucrative field. Despite making up 15% of the U.S. population and being long-time consumers, Black individuals remain significantly underrepresented in the spirits industry, occupying only about 7% of the roles. This episode is designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to explore untap...

200: Celebrating 200 Episodes with 8 Must-Have Business Tips to Elevate Your Business

May 16, 2024 08:00 - 51 minutes - 70.9 MB

Cue the celebration! We're thrilled to mark our 200th episode milestone, and it's all thanks to incredible listeners like you. Your support and engagement have fueled our journey, and we couldn't have done it without you.   To celebrate this special occasion, we've curated a selection of the most impactful moments from some of our top episodes spanning 2023-2024. These snippets are packed with actionable advice and insights to empower you on your entrepreneurial journey.   Here's a s...

199: Leveraging Social Capital to Cultivate Meaningful Relationships in Business w/ Dr. Froswa Booker

May 09, 2024 06:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MB

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, where every connection counts and every relationship could mean the difference between success and stagnation, understanding the power of social capital is not just advantageous—it's a game-changer. As a Black entrepreneur, you're keenly aware of the importance of forging genuine connections in an environment where opportunities can sometimes feel scarce. Building meaningful relationships isn't just about networking; it's about cultivating a netwo...

198: Using Storytelling to Connect, Convert, and Boost Business Sales w/ Akeem Shannon

May 02, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 99.9 MB

Ever felt like you're stuck in a never-ending cycle of pitching your business to potential clients, only to hear crickets in response? Or maybe you've poured your heart and soul into crafting the perfect marketing campaign, only to see it fall flat? As entrepreneurs, we've all been there. The struggle to connect with our audience, convert leads into customers, and ultimately boost sales can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. But what if there was a game-changing strategy right at our fing...

197: All Things Streamlining and Operations to Simplify Your Business w/ Marie Lewis

April 25, 2024 08:00 - 46 minutes - 64.3 MB

It’s time to reclaim your time by streamlining and automating your business. We understand the entrepreneurial feeling that you have to do it all; juggling multiple responsibilities, managing limited resources, and striving for success in a competitive marketplace. That's why in this episode we delve into the world of streamlining and operations, aiming to simplify your business processes and supercharge your efficiency. We're getting the expert insights from Marie Lewis, the owner of Roya...

196: How To Build A Profitable E-Commerce Brand w/ Jance Chartae

April 18, 2024 08:00 - 53 minutes - 73.9 MB

Do you know your ABC’s? Well you’re about to learn the A to Z’s of e-commerce. According to Forbes, small and medium-sized businesses account for approximately 42% of total e-commerce sales in the United States. It's time your business gets a piece of the pie, and we have the perfect person to give it to you! Jance Chartae is a retail strategist and e-commerce coach with a unique blend of expertise in retail sales, management, and online business development. In only 4 years, Jance has gro...

195: Business Tools That Make Cents While Helping You Save Time & Money w/ LaShonda Brown

April 11, 2024 08:00 - 41 minutes - 56.4 MB

Are you missing a few tools from your toolkit? Well, we’re here to fill it up with all the business tools. As entrepreneurs, we understand the importance of optimizing efficiency and making the most out of the limited resources we have. In this episode we are talking about all things business tools with guru LaShonda Brown. She has mastered the art of working smarter not harder to get the most out of each work day. In this episode, LaShonda, an award-winning Tech Educator, YouTube Coach, a...

194: Digital Mastery: Crafting a Powerful Online Presence for Your Business

April 04, 2024 08:00 - 48 minutes - 67 MB

As people spend more of their time online, business competition has become fierce. Every business needs a strong digital presence in order to stand out from the crowd.  That’s why you can't miss this encyclopedia of knowledge on online presence Adam Nwaozo and Tony Thompson reveal throughout the episode, as they share secrets on crafting a powerful online presence for your business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your existing online presence, this episode is packe...

193: Rolling Together: Building Success in Niche and Stigmatized Communities w/ Weed For Black Women

March 28, 2024 08:00 - 57 minutes - 78.3 MB

Do you want to reach higher heights? Well keep it locked as we discuss something critical to every Black entrepreneur, finding your community. This is especially important when building your business around a niche or stigmatized business. As entrepreneurs, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with carving out our space in industries that aren’t always welcoming. Becoming a part of or developing the right community is a keystone in ensuring that your business has...

192: Shutting Down: Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey of Business Closure w/ Netta Dobbins

March 21, 2024 08:00 - 46 minutes - 64.3 MB

Entrepreneurship is like a rollercoaster ride with moments of triumph and moments that test our resilience. But what happens when you find yourself at a crossroads where shutting down your business becomes a reality? In this episode we dive  into the often unspoken journey of closing a business with our guest, Netta Dobbins. She recently made the difficult decision to close her business Mimconnect, a digital community of over 15,000 members helping professionals of color navigate their car...

191: Driving Impact: How To Build a Purpose-Driven Business w/ Leone Solutions Group

March 14, 2024 08:00 - 57 minutes - 78.9 MB

Today’s consumers aren't just looking for products or services—they're looking for meaning. They want to support businesses that stand for something beyond just making money. When you align your business with a clear purpose, you create a powerful connection with your audience. You're not just selling a product or service; you're selling a vision, a mission, a cause that people can get behind. In this episode, we're diving into the topic of how to build a purpose-driven business with Ashle...

190: Game-Changing Strategies To Even The Playing Field In Your Industry w/ Shequeta Smith

March 07, 2024 09:00 - 53 minutes - 72.9 MB

In the realm of entrepreneurship, especially for Black business owners, the journey often entails overcoming significant hurdles – systemic barriers, biases, and a lack of representation. In this episode, we're delving into the realm of game-changing strategies – those innovative approaches that not only level the playing field but tilt it in your favor.   For entrepreneurs facing these challenges, the quest for strategies that can tip the scales in their favor is constant. But fear not,...

189: Blooming Success: How Urban Sustainability Drives Economic Empowerment w/ Quilen Blackwell

February 29, 2024 09:00 - 1 hour - 91.5 MB

In this episode, we're delving into a topic that's not just about industry specifics—it’s about creating meaningful change in our communities. We understand that as a Black entrepreneur, you're not just building a business; you're sowing seeds of transformation and empowerment. That's why we're thrilled to bring you this conversation with Quilen Blackwell, president and co-founder of Chicago Eco House, as we explore the powerful connection between urban sustainability and economic empowermen...

188: Collective Wealth: Harnessing the Power of Group Economics in Real Estate w/ Dennis Earls and Mikael Pyles of Haltere Group

February 22, 2024 09:00 - 1 hour - 95.3 MB

Are you tired of hearing the narrative that real estate investment is reserved for those with deep pockets? Perhaps you've even bought into the myth that as a member of the Black community, the odds are stacked against you when it comes to building wealth through property ownership. It's a common objection, and it's one that Haltere Group's Dennis Earls and Mikael Pyles are determined to shatter. In this episode, we delve into a topic that's not just about real estate – it's about rewriting ...

187: Building Without Limits: Reaching Your Full Potential in Business w/ Kristen V. Carter

February 15, 2024 09:00 - 55 minutes - 75.8 MB

In today's fast-paced world, the concept of "building without limits" resonates deeply with entrepreneurs striving to make their mark. It's about embracing the notion that success knows no bounds, and the only limits are the ones we impose upon ourselves.   That's where we come in. We understand the challenges and uncertainties that come with forging your own path in the world of business. That's why, in this episode of the Black To Business podcast, we're diving headfirst into the trans...

186: Decision Mastery: Transforming Your Life & Business Through Strategic Choices

February 08, 2024 09:00 - 19 minutes - 27.4 MB

In today's fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, where every move counts and every opportunity is a potential game-changer, mastering the art of decision-making is not just beneficial – it's essential. At Black to Business, we understand the immense impact that strategic choices can have on your journey as an entrepreneur. Whether you're just starting out or have been in the game for years, the decisions you make can shape the trajectory of your business, influence your success, and ultimate...

185: Building Trust In Your Business

February 01, 2024 09:00 - 16 minutes - 23.2 MB

In this solo episode, we're delving deep into a fundamental aspect of business success – building trust. Trust isn't just a nice-to-have; it's the bedrock upon which strong, lasting relationships with customers, clients, and partners are built. And as Black entrepreneurs, trust takes on added significance. We face unique challenges due to stereotypes and negative perceptions, making it even more crucial to establish trust in our businesses.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: The import...

184: Defining Your Own Version of Success

January 25, 2024 10:56 - 31 minutes - 43.1 MB

Ever feel like success has this one-size-fits-all label – money, status, recognition? Trust us, we get it.    In a world that often hands us a pre-packaged definition of success, especially if you’re a new or first-gen business owner, it's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. In this solo episode, our Founder and Podcast Host, Monique T. Marshall breaks it down.   Navigating society's predefined idea of success can feel like lugging around extra baggage on your entrepre...

183: Building Healthy Habits for Business Success

January 18, 2024 09:00 - 19 minutes - 27.1 MB

Ever found yourself in the trenches of entrepreneurship, wading through the overwhelming tasks and demands that seem to never let up? If your business journey sometimes feels like a non-stop rollercoaster with twists, turns, and loops, you're not alone. In this episode of the Black to Business Podcast, hosted by our very own Monique T. Marshall, we're diving deep into the intricacies of "Building Healthy Habits for Business Success."   Imagine your business as a dynamic organism, evolvin...

182: Mastering Your Entrepreneurial Mindset & Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

January 11, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 28.3 MB

In this thought-provoking episode of the Black to Business podcast, Monique T. Marshall, the insightful founder and podcast host, guides new Black entrepreneurs through the essential terrain of "Mastering Your Entrepreneurial Mindset and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs." This conversation isn't just a dialogue; it's a transformative journey crafted to resonate with the unique experiences of our community.   Embarking on the entrepreneurial path is a thrilling yet challenging journey, especia...

181: The Power of Focus: Mastering Your Niche, One Thing at a Time w/ AJ Simmons

January 04, 2024 09:00 - 54 minutes - 75 MB

In a world that often glorifies the art of multitasking, we're here to challenge the narrative and delve into a philosophy that's proven to be a game-changer: The Power of Focus.   In today's dynamic and fast-paced business environment, the pressure to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously is pervasive. We're bombarded with messages that celebrate those who seemingly manage a dozen things at once. But is this approach truly sustainable, especially for entrepreneurs? Can wearing many hats ...

180: Black to Business 2023 Business Recap

December 28, 2023 09:00 - 35 minutes - 48.9 MB

In this special episode, led by Monique T. Marshall, founder of Black to Business and the podcast's host, we take a deep dive into the highlights, achievements, and lessons learned in 2023.    THINGS DISCUSSED DURING THIS EPISODE: Top podcast episodes of the year. Business achievements and milestones. Crucial business lessons learned. What’s next for Black to Business.   Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com...

179: Business Resolutions: Goal-Setting for the New Year

December 21, 2023 09:00 - 21 minutes - 29.6 MB

In this episode of the Black to Business podcast, Monique T. Marshall, the founder and host, takes you on a journey into the world of business resolutions. As we approach the new year, Monique shares actionable tips and strategies for setting meaningful goals that will drive growth and success for your business. Drawing parallels between personal resolutions and business aspirations.   DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Discover why setting strategic goals is crucial for business growth....

178: Delegate to Elevate: Empowering Your Business through Strategic Delegation w/ Tonya Thomas

December 14, 2023 09:00 - 46 minutes - 63.2 MB

In this episode, we dive into a crucial aspect of every business owner's journey – strategic delegation. As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves juggling an overwhelming array of tasks, and the concept of delegation can be a game-changer in reclaiming time and propelling our businesses to new heights. Our guest, Tonya Thomas, founder of Team Delegate, a virtual assistant company with over 20 years of experience, joins the show to unpack the essentials of effective delegation, providing act...

177: Building Together: The Shanklin Hall Story of Family, Friendship, and Community in Entrepreneurship w/ Tau Shanklin Roberts

December 07, 2023 09:00 - 57 minutes - 79.3 MB

Entrepreneurial ventures often begin as solitary pursuits, but today, we're unlocking the doors to a different narrative – a narrative that revolves around the power of kinship, camaraderie, and community in the world of business. In this episode of the Black To Business Podcast, we're stepping into uncharted territory, discussing a topic that resonates deeply with many and is crucial for those currently navigating or aspiring to navigate the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship within the ...

176: The Impact of Rap City: Elevating Hip-Hop Culture & Storytelling Through Media w/ Alvin Jones

November 30, 2023 09:00 - 1 hour - 96.2 MB

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 ind...

175: Puzzling Success: How Puzzle Huddle Pieced Together a Thriving Business w/ Matthew Goins

November 23, 2023 09:00 - 57 minutes - 78.9 MB

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 ventu...

174: How to Successfully Disrupt a Fixed Industry w/ Mahisha Dellinger

November 16, 2023 09:00 - 35 minutes - 49 MB

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 Foun...

173: Crafting Cutting-Edge Customer Experiences and Lessons from theCut's Success in Modernizing a Traditional Industry w/ Obi Omile

November 09, 2023 09:00 - 47 minutes - 64.8 MB

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 disru...

172: Friendship-First Approach: The Key to Thriving Business Partnerships w/ Shannon Jones & Yadira Harrison

November 02, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 100 MB

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 consultanc...

171: How to Build Resilience while Mastering Operational Efficiency w/ Samuel Pierre

October 26, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 96.4 MB

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, bot...

170: Banking on Your Business: Building a Strong Financial Core w/ Kelly Ifill

October 19, 2023 08:00 - 53 minutes - 73.8 MB

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 d...

169: Balancing Ambitions: Climbing the Corporate Ladder Toward Your Dreams w/ Morgan Chavis

October 12, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 108 MB

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 t...

168: Using the CEO’s Voice: Building an Authentic and Influential Presence w/ L. Michelle Smith

October 05, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 104 MB

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 ...

167: [LIVE RECORDING] Black Men Who Lead Panel Washington, DC 2023

September 28, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 98 MB

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 a...

166: Bringing the Heat: Using Your Expertise to Wake Up an Established Market w/ Brandon Rochon

September 21, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 113 MB

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 R...

165: Brand Resilience: Protecting Your Brand in the Influencer Landscape w/ Bobby Robinson

September 14, 2023 08:00 - 47 minutes - 65 MB

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 ...

164: Harnessing the Athletic Mindset: Transforming Adversity into Innovation in Business w/ Darnell Jones

September 07, 2023 08:00 - 50 minutes - 68.9 MB

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. Tod...

163: Escaping the Algorithm: How to Grow your Business Outside of Social Media w/ Lorene Cowan

August 31, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 83.4 MB

  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...

162: Hustle & Nourish: Optimize Your Diet for Peak Productivity w/ Vanessa Rissetto

August 24, 2023 08:00 - 43 minutes - 59.7 MB

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...

161: How To Design Packaging That Maintains Your Brand Identity w/ Aaron Swinton

August 17, 2023 08:00 - 54 minutes - 74.5 MB

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 a...

160: Creating A Niche In Your Market To Establish Trust & Credibility w/ Jonathan Mclean

August 10, 2023 08:00 - 38 minutes - 53.3 MB

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 busines...

159: Demystifying MWBE Certification: Navigating the Process & Unleashing Business Opportunities w/ Sheena Thomas

August 03, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 88.7 MB

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 Exe...

158: Unlocking Government Contracts: Qualifying & Preparing Your Business for Success w/ Dr. Karwanna D. Irving

July 27, 2023 08:00 - 49 minutes - 68.3 MB

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 governmen...

157: Setting Expectations in Your Business

July 20, 2023 08:00 - 17 minutes - 24.1 MB

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 hei...

156: Equity in Influencer Marketing: Empowering Black Brands & Influencers w/ Jordyn Weaver

July 13, 2023 08:00 - 47 minutes - 64.8 MB

Name: Jordyn Weaver Business Name: Forefront ATL Current Title: Founder/CEO Location: Atlanta, GA Educational Background:  North Carolina Central University (2019) - B.S in Family & Consumer Science (Fashion), Minor in Business University of California, Irvine (2021) - Masters of Innovation & Entrepreneurship   About Jordyn Weaver: Jordyn Weaver is a social impact leader, founder, and innovator. Her mission in life is to economically empower Black and other underserved comm...

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