Trailblazers.FM: Recent Episodes
Stephen A. Hart
Trailblazers.FM is an interview-style podcast where host Stephen A. Hart delves deep into bold conversations with brilliant Black men and women - legendary creators, best-selling authors, self-driven entrepreneurs, and passionate leaders. Each episode documents fascinating and extraordinary Black stories, to help teach actionable strategies, valuable tactics and innovative tools, that you can put to use immediately on your journey to becoming transformative trailblazers.
Access 200+ episodes of Black excellence, including conversations with Dr. Dennis Kimbro, Patrice Washington, John W. Rogers, Jr, Janice Bryant-Howroyd, Eric Thomas, Nicole Walters and many more.
Subscribe to join us for the conversation each week.
We are not short on horror stories of racial disparities in medicine. We saw this most recently during the early days of the pandemic, when Black and brown communities were absolutely devastated by Covid-19. And even beyond the pandemic, health disparities and inequity for people of color persist.
Our guest today is Dr. Oni Blackstock. Dr. Oni Blackstock is recognized as a thought leader and influencer in the areas of HIV and health equity. She is a primary care and HIV physician and the founder and Executive Director of Health Justice, a racial and health equity consulting firm, that helps health care and public health organizations to center anti-racism in the workplace and to reduce health inequities in the communities they service.
She previously served as Assistant Commissioner at the New York City Health Department where she led the Cityâs response to the HIV epidemic. Prior to that, she was Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of General Internal Medicine at Montefiore Medical Center where she led and conducted research to develop and test interventions to promote HIV prevention and treatment. She holds degrees from Harvard College, Harvard Medical School, and Yale School of Medicine.
Dr. Blackstock is passionate about ensuring that all individuals and communities have the resources and support they need to thrive and achieve optimal health and wellbeing.
Join our host for this #WomensHistoryMonth special series, Jennefer Witter, Founder and CEO of The Boreland Group, for this conversation with Dr. Blackstock.
PLEASE SHARE this episode with 5 Black women (or tag them in the comments). Let them know they need this motivational #MissionFuel TAH-dayyy.
đĽ To listen to the full episode (and download the transcripts), please visit:
https://iamblacksuccess.com
missionfuel #blackwomen #whm2022 #health #healthjustice #healthequity
Change can be scary, and when your pivot concerns your professional life, it can become even scarier ... especially for Black Women and other women of color!
Our guest is Cecilia Nelson-Hurt, a Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer. In celebration of Womenâs History Month, we have Jennefer Witter, a past guest of the show, taking over hosting duties for the podcast for March. Jennefer is CEO/Founder of the Boreland Group.
đĽ Download transcripts and see our full archives:
https://iamblacksuccess.com
There is an ongoing myth that there are very few Black Women in executive and/or senior leadership positions. Like the pipeline is nearly empty. Itâs NOT.
Our guest for this episode is Ebony Reed. Ebony is the Chief Strategy Officer for the Marshall Project, a non-profit that produces journalism about the criminal justice system. Connect with Ebony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebony-reed-7b18564/
In celebration of Womenâs History Month, Jennefer Witter, a past guest of the show, takes over hosting duties for the podcast for the month of March. Jennefer is CEO/Founder of the Boreland Group. Connect with Jennefer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenneferwitter
PLEASE SHARE this episode with 5 Black women who need this motivational #MissionFuel today. đĽ
Please consider leaving Trailblazers.FM a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify. Weâre actively exploring new partners and sponsors. If interested please email stephen@stephenahart.com
Complete show archive, transcripts and more: https://iamblacksuccess.com
Are you a Unicorn? Have you been called a unicorn? Unicorn is a popular term used when there is an âonlyâ or a âfewâ and it often means â according to Wikipedia â âa very rare findâ.
In celebration of Womenâs History Month, Iâm turning over my hosting duties, all month long, to a dear friend and a past guest of the show, Jennefer Witter. Jennefer is the CEO and founder of The Boreland Group, a 20-year-old boutique public relations firm headquartered in New York City. Jenneferâs agency specializes in women-led and minority owned businesses as well as grassroots non-profits.
Today, Iâm sharing a conversation between Jennefer and the Rev Dr. Theresa Thames, talking about unicorns as well as occupying spaces, being our true selves, and how they all wrap into each other.
This is the first of this special 4-part Women's History Month feature, hosted by Jennefer Witter.
More about Rev Dr. Theresa Thames:
Rev Dr Theresa Thames is the founder of Soul Joy Coaching & Yoga, LLC, an in-person and online gathering that centers womxn of color, inviting them to honor their whole divine selves and tap into radical joy. She is also a Dean at an Ivy League university.
Dr. Thames is a graduate of Howard University and received a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Gender, Theology, and Ministry from Duke University Divinity School. She has a Doctorate of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary in Leadership Excellence which explored how best to equip young clergywomen of color to thrive in ministry. As an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church, she served as a local pastor in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for nine years.
More about Jennefer Witter:
Jennefer Witter is the CEO and founder of The Boreland Group Inc. (TBG â www.theborelandgroup.com), a 19-year-old boutique public relations firm headquartered in New York City. The agency specializes in women-led and minority owned businesses as well as grassroots non-profits. Jennefer is an active public speaker, with presentations to military, trade and academic organizations on implicit bias; gender-based workplace conversation; inclusive leadership; personal branding; and networking. Jennefer is the author of âThe Little Book of Big PR: 100+ Quick Tips to Get Your Small Business Noticed,â published by Amacom/HarperCollins.
Connect and follow:
https://theresathames.com
http://www.theborelandgroup.com/
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Please leave Trailblazers.FM: I Am Black Success, a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so, on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify.
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Learn more about our show:
https://iamblacksuccess.com
Ready to discover the 4 truths on why we actually struggle chasing PURPOSE?
Donât miss âWhatâs The 411?â with our guest Patrice C Washington.
In 2020, SUCCESS Magazine named Patrice Washington one of 12 Inspiring Black Voices in Personal Development and she continues to be consistently called on for her expertise by national media. As an award-winning intuitive author, transformational speaker, hope-restoring coach, and conscious media personality, Patrice is committed to teaching a holistic approach to life while redefining the term âwealthâ back to its original meaning, âwell-being.â
Patrice got her start as âAmericaâs Money Maven,â a widely-known favorite personal finance expert, but has since expanded her mission to encourage people to chase purpose, not money. She uses her Certification in Financial Psychology to help the masses get beyond budgets and credit reports and dive into the heart of why we behave the way we do with money. Through her Spirit-led teachings and intuitive guidance, Patrice empowers her community to look at life through the lens of abundance and opportunity, instead of lack and scarcity.
As host of her award-winning âThe Redefining Wealth Podcast,â Patrice has built a thriving international community of high-achievers committed to creating a fulfilled life through balancing their careers, home, health, and personal finances. Featured on Forbes.com as one of "15 Inspiring Podcasts for Professionals of Every Stripe," and highlighted by InStyle Magazine, SUCCESS magazine and Entrepreneur.com, the Redefining Wealth Podcast boasts over 10 million downloads and counting.
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify.
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
How Can You Grow Your Solo Business?
Join me as I share in conversation with the one and only Ramon Ray, who is going to share some key tips and insights NOT for building a billion-dollar brand but JUST getting to over $100k in revenue-building a great business that generates a few hundred thousand dollars in revenue!
In case you hadnât heard about Ramon until now ...
Ramon Ray is an in-demand expert on small business success. He's has started five companies and sold two of them and is a five-time author. Ramon's latest books are "Celebrity CEO", all about personal branding and "Grow Your Solo" all about building a successful solo business! Get to know Ramon better at http://www.ramonray.com
Also, be sure to connect and follow:
Ramon Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramonraysmallbiz/
Stephen A. Hart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenaihart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify.
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
Empathy is so very important in today's remote work environment, and helps leaders understand their team's perspectives, emotions, and experiences, which leads to better communication and connection.
Our featured guest for this episode is Chris Cochran, CEO & Executive Producer of Hacker Valley Media. Chris will be sharing a new segment we've created called 'What's the 411' and talking with us about Leading Empathetically in an Increasingly Remote World.
Follow us:Hacker Valley, I Am Black Success
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart, Chris Cochran
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Stephen A. Hart, Chris Cochran
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify.
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
"If the racial wealth divide is left unaddressed ... median Black household wealth is on a path to hit zero by 2053âabout 10 years after it is projected that racial minorities will comprise the majority of the nationâs population. Median Latino household wealth is projected to hit zero twenty years later, or by 2073." The Road To Zero Wealth.
Join Gary Cunningham, CEO of Prosperity Now, as he tackles the income and asset gap and highlights ways to build Black wealth for a more inclusive economy.
Follow us:Prosperity Now, I Am Black Success
Instagram: Trailblazers.FM, Prosperity Now
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart, Gary Cunningham
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Stephen A. Hart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify.
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
Today is our 7th birthday as a podcast (wooo hooo). This is the 3rd part of a 3-part Reboot mini series. All three episodes are live right now (episodes 228-230).
The mantra and approach I'll share in today's episode, became the underlying driver that later helped me get:
- Promoted twice in 6-months at my job
- Increased my income and the number of income streams
- Got me accepted as one of the first 100- people into LinkedInâs Creator Accelarator program
- And helped me create 50-live streams in 10-weeks
There's so much more that I was able to do, including address my mental health and strength, from this mindset shift.
Tune in today to learn what I did, and how you can too.
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If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to
Follow us:
Instagram: Trailblazers.FM
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Stephen A. Hart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
When you're navigating somewhere using Google Maps and you've got an accident on your route, Google will typically offer you to accept a different route... and thatâs what I did in this valley season of my life. I accepted the alternate route.
This is the 2nd part of a 3-part Reboot mini series. All three episodes are live right now (episodes 228-230).*
In this episode, I share:
- What happened to me in this 3-year valley season and why I accepted an alternate route to keep me moving toward my goals
- How I landed a huge opportunity with LinkedIn as one of the very first 100 creators they accepted into their accelerator program
- What lead to me landing not one but two job promotions inside a 6-month window
Thereâs a bunch more in this episode. Go back and check out part 1 if you missed it.
If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to
Follow us:
Instagram: Trailblazers.FM
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Stephen A. Hart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
Whatâs good fam? Wah gwan? How tings? How yaâll doing?
Listen, this episode is being published on February 1 2023 and today marks the 7th anniversary since we launched the Trailblazers.FM podcast.
Thatâs right ... itâs our 7th birthday as a podcast and community... Iâm so incredibly grateful as I reflect on all the amazing accomplishments weâve achieved and also the challenges weâve endured to get here.
Today also marks the official reboot of the show and the beginning of #BlackHistoryMonth 2023 in the US.
This is the 1st part of a 3-part Reboot mini series. All three episodes are live right now (episodes 228-230).*
In today's episode (Reboot Pt 1) I also share that:
- Weâve got an all new title for this podcast
- And weâve got an entirely new website that you should absolutely go check out... itâs iamblacksuccess.com
Thereâs some additional goodies in today's episode about me, a summary of the showâs origin story, and some of where we're going from here.
--
If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to
Follow us:
Instagram: Trailblazers.FM
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Stephen A. Hart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
Itâs New Yearâs Day and a dear friend of the podcast, Mignon Francois, opens up the year for Trailblazers.FM with this bold statement and challenge to each and everyone of YOU in our BlazerNation community:
Throw The Whole Resolution Away... đŽ
Say what?? Listen, you DO NOT want to miss out on the most inspiring 21-minutes that will help you get your year off on the right footing and position your mind, your actions and the results you'll achieve over the next 365-days of this year!
Our featured guest today is Mignon Francois.
Mignon Francois is the Founder and CEO of The Cupcake Collection (TCC).
Using her âFollow Your Spiritâ approach, Mignon developed an iconic flavor that drew lines and attention to the hip nature of her Historic Germantown neighborhood that hadnât seen this concept developed prior. The success of TCC thereby became icing on the cake amongst the existing North Nashville restaurateurs that would ignite a new movement to the area for other business concepts that might not otherwise have considered doing business in North Nashville.
Since planting its roots in 2008, Mignonâs business savvy has earned her the titles of âWoman of Legend and Meritâ by Tennessee State University, âEmerging Business Leader of the Yearâ and Black Enterprise Magazine âFamily Business of the Year Awardâ.
Learn more about the Cupcake Collection.
Check out our all-new web portal
For a limited time, you can sign up to access our new web portal for FREE at iamblacksuccess.com There youâll find great content on successful Black women and men in entrepreneurship, leadership and business.
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If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to
Follow us:
Instagram: Trailblazers.FM, Mignon Francois
LinkedIn: Stephen A. Hart, Mignon Francois
Twitter: Trailblazers.FM, Mignon Francois, Stephen A. Hart
Leave us a rating and review
Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcasts and/or Spotify
Partner with us
Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors. If youâre interested in possibly working with us, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
"God will make us strong, before he makes us happy!" Join me, Stephen A. Hart this and every Monday morning at 8am ET for a short live stream, to get our minds right as we get started in a new week. Weâll discuss tips and tricks to help channel the right mindset, gratitude, and some recommended actions we can take to help us blaze our trail for the week. Learn more about Stephen: www.stephenahart.com www.brandindemand.co www.twitter.com/stephenahart www.instagram.com/stephenahart #StephenAHart #entrepreneurship #leadership #personalbranding #personalbrand #branding #marketing #jobsearch #job #jobseeker #motivation #inspiration #success #mindset #monday #missionfuel #missionfuelmornings #gratitude #mentalstrength #action
How do you build, grow and scale your black-owned business? Â Todayâs guest is Samia Gore. Â Samia Gore is the first Black female founder of Body Complete Rx, whoâs been able to break significant ground in the male-dominated, nutritional supplement industry. Sheâs since gone on to generate over $10m in the past 4 years in her business. Â I hope youâre enjoying this 12 Days of Significance series. Â If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to help me by doing one or all of these things: Â 1) Follow me on LinkedIn right now by visiting stephenahart.com/linkedin 2) Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so 3) Hop on over to stephenahart.com/donate and make a small donation, even $5 or $10, to help us get some funds in place to begin getting the resources we need back in the saddle to edit and publish these episodes. Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors, so if youâre interested in possibly working together in 2022, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
There is a past version of you that is so proud of how far you have come! I recently shared an emotional memory of a place, a valley I was in back in December 2013, that I wanted to never go back to again. Thank God, Iâve never been back there. And that Stephen from December 15, 2013 is soooo very proud of where I am today. - Now that brings me to the point I wanted to make today and itâs this ... DO NOT QUIT on you because GREAT THINGS TAKE TIME! If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to help me by doing one or all of these things: 1) Follow me on LinkedIn right now by visiting stephenahart.com/linkedin 2) Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so 3) Hop on over to stephenahart.com/donate and make a small donation, even $5 or $10, to help us get some funds in place to begin getting the resources we need back in the saddle to edit and publish these episodes. Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors, so if youâre interested in possibly working together in 2022, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com
Everybody can't be a billionaire, but we believe everybody can be a willionaire. Willionaires believe that where there's a will, there are several ways. And champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision. We have to have the skill and the will, but the will must be stronger than the skill. Join Shawn Dove and Stephen A. Hart this and every Wednesday for actionable, impactful and free-flowing Willionaire Wednesday conversations, that aim to help you strengthen your will. Our episode guest is Stephen Powell, the chief programs and partnerships officer of the National CARES Mentoring Movement, founded by Essence Magazineâs Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Susan L. Taylor; he leads and oversees the organizationâs affiliate network, program expansion, partnership development, training, and technical assistance efforts. Some of Stephenâs most notable honors include GQ Magazineâs Movado Leader Award; Black Enterprise Magazineâs 100 Modern Men of Distinction; and an Obama administration White House âChampion of Change Following in the Footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.â Stephen is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc. and serves on the Chicago Beyond Trauma Advisory Council, and is also a board member of Cinnamon Girl, Inc and Nth Dimensions, Inc. Stephen is an alum of the Institute for Non-profit Management program at Columbia Universityâs Graduate School of Business and Howard University. He was raised in East Orange, NJ and currently resides in Montclair with his wife, Marlaina and two daughters, Sinclair Adina (14) and Simone Alexandra (10). Shawn Dove is a speaker, author, and advocate for leaders who want to improve the lives of young people, particularly Black men and boys. He is the co-author of the upcoming book: I Too Am America. You can learn more about Shawn at dovesoars.com and connect with him on twitter @dovesoars Stephen A. Hart is a marketer, podcaster, content creator, brand strategist, speaker, entrepreneur, husband and #bestdadever. You can learn more about Stephen at stephenahart.com and connect on Twitter @stephenahart More about: National CARES Mentoring Movement: caresmentoring.org Stephen A. Hart: https://stephenahart.com/ Shawn Dove: https://dovesoars.com/ Sponsoring Partners: Brand In Demand: www.brandindemand.co #blackmaleachievement #blackexcellence #blackmen #blackboys #blacklove #itooamamerica #book #author #blackhistory #blackowned #blackpride #blackunity #blm #missionfuel #livestream #wednesday #linkedin #podcast #success #mindset #mentalstrength #mentalwealth #mentalhealth
Life has a way of throwing you and I some tough blows during different seasons of our lives. Whether you and I must endure a day, a week or a year of hardships, the challenge is to continue to put yourself out there (like it or not), continue to get up and show up anyway. If youâre unclear about how to lead during your present or next season of uncertainty, you should join this conversation.
Our guest today is Kandia Johnson, Founder of Kandid Conversations Global, a leadership training and coaching program to help workplace and entrepreneurial leaders tackle self-doubt, and unleash their hidden potential.
She also launched She Deserves More, a career confidence and visibility program for mid-career women looking to position, pitch, and promote themselves as leaders--be it at work, in business, or within their communities.
Learn more about:
Kandia Johnson: https://kandiajohnson.com
Trailblazers.FM: http://tbpod.com
#personalbranding #branding #motivation #inspiration #success #LinkedIn #livestream #TrailblazersFM #tbpod #podcast #blackentrepreneurs #blackfounders #success #missionfuel #founder #owner #entrepreneur #leadership #linkedin #startup #blackwomen #blackleaders #blackexcellence #mindset
As our 5th anniversary as a podcast approached on February 1st 2021, I made a decision to not quit on Trailblazers.FM, but instead I decided to shift. I shifted and committed to producing weekly video live streams and then it became 2-3x a week that I was streaming. In many ways though, my soul ached. I stopped the podcast that was going for 5 years, and at itâs peak, reaching some 15-20,000 downloads a month. But I made a commitment in that dark valley, that I was going to set my pride aside and I was going to embrace being bad, until it got good for me with live stream videos. Todayâs the first published episode in exactly one year. If youâve missed the podcast, and youâre happy weâre back Iâll ask you to help me by doing one or all of these things: 1) Follow me on LinkedIn right now by visiting stephenahart.com/linkedin 2) Please leave us a 5-star rating and review if youâd not yet done so on Apple Podcast 3) Hop on over to stephenahart.com/donate and make a small donation, even $5 or $10, to help us get some funds in place to begin getting the resources we need back in the saddle to edit and publish these episodes. Weâre also exploring new partners and sponsors, so if youâre interested in possibly working together in 2022, please shoot me an email to stephen@stephenahart.com Thank you so much. Iâll end today with a short 3-minute clip of a solo episode I did titled Growth is Uncomfortable.
All anyone has to do is say the year and it can elicit an emotion. In a few words, this year has been everything from unpredictable, to traumatic, scary, exhausting and bizarre. But, there have been moments of joy as well, despite the pain.
For those who are hurting, who need the hope that an opportunity to start over provides, debut author Zim Flores has some thoughts. Floresâ new book, Dare to Bloom: Trusting God Through Painful Endings and New Beginnings (Dec. 8, 2020, Thomas Nelson Gift Books), shows people how to find hope and discover opportunity, even when circumstances and endings are hard and uncertain.
OUR FEATURED GUEST THIS WEEK: ZIM FLORES Named a leader using her voice and talent to elevate humanity by Oprah Winfrey, Zim Flores (nĂŠe Ugochukwu) is the founder of Italicist, an online styling service that helps women discover modest clothing they love, without the time commitment. Previously she was the CEO of Travel Noire, a boutique travel company reaching millions of travelers each month. In 2017 she sold the company to pursue Christ.
A serial entrepreneur, Zim is a Forbes "30 Under 30" awardee who has been featured in the New York Times, TIME, ELLE, Glamour, The Nation, Essence, and NPR, among others. She often writes in faraway places and lives with her husband in Illinois. Connect with her at www.zimism.com and @zimism.
Dare to Bloom: Trusting God Through Painful Endings and New Beginnings Order your copy today via Amazon.
JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation.
We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY: Todayâs episode of the Trailblazers.FM podcast is brought to you by Brand You Academy.
OUR FEATURED GUEST THIS WEEK: ZACH NUNN Based out of Houston, TX, Zach Nunn is a âBig 4â Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant and thought leader, with over 9 years of experience leading cultural and organizational transformation in a variety of industries. As the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, LLC, Zach amplifies and centers marginalized voices at work by interviewing Black and brown executives, activists, educators, elected officials and influencers which provides practical insight and that reaches over thousands majority Black and brown Millennial and Generation-X listeners a week. Despite all this work, his biggest passions are his wife, Candis and daughter, Emory.
So many gems packed into todayâs episode. Grab a pad and a pen, or open your fav note taking app and get set to receive todayâs mission fuel from Zach Nunn. Enjoy!
JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation.
We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
CONNECT WITH ZACH Website: Living Corporate, LLC
Instagram: @revnunnwisdom
Twitter: @revnunnwisdom
THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY: Todayâs episode of the Trailblazers.FM podcast is brought to you by Brand You Academy.
You've heard the advice to reach out to individual journalists âŚ. but should we work to build rapport with journalists BEFORE we need them? I ask this and several other questions that I wanted more insights on in this conversation with the PR GURU, Pam Perry. OUR FEATURED GUEST THIS WEEK: PAM PERRY Pam Perry is an award-winning communications professional. She teaches and mentors authors, speakers and entrepreneurs on how to build a platform and attract major media and publishing contracts. She is also the publisher of SPEAKERS MAGAZINE.
After working with Pam, her clients have been featured on CNN, TBN, The Word Network, Radio One, Oprah Magazine, Tom Joyner Morning Show, Essence, Ebony, Black Enterprise, PBS â and many other major media outlets. Her clients have been offered major publishing contracts, and have created successful full-time careers as âauthorpreneursâ earning six-figures.
So many gems packed into todayâs episode. Grab a pad and a pen, or open your fav note taking app and get set to receive todayâs mission fuel from my friend, the PR Guru, Pam Perry. Enjoy!
JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation.
We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
CONNECT WITH PAM Website: pamperrypr.com
Instagram: @pam_perry
THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY: Todayâs episode of the Trailblazers.FM podcast is brought to you by Brand You Academy.
It's time to open the doors for Black creatives in the fashion industry and provide them direct access to some of fashion's top leaders and vets.
OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: CHRISTOPHER BEVANS Christopher Bevans is a native of New York, who began his career apprenticing at a local tailoring house where he eventually became the owner at 19 years old. Christopherâs roots as an expert tailor developed into a passion that carried him to the Fashion Institute of Technology. During his time at FIT, Bevans studied textiles while learning the ropes from Jack Sauma, owner of Mood Fabrics, one of the largest fabric retailers in the world.
Bevans developed a reputation as an expert craftsman and visionary while working with top brands and organizations such as Billionaire Boys Club, Head(Tennis), Sean John, Yeezy, Spyder and the MacArthur Foundation, where he received a grant for education in 2012. Bevans was a member of the Sean John design team which went on to win the 2004 CFDA Menswear Award. Prior to launching DYNE, he served as the Creative Director of Nikeâs Blue Ribbon Sports Division (now Nike Sportswear) from 2003 to 2007 where he spearheaded the hugely successful Air Force 1 25th Anniversary Campaign. While at Nike, Bevans was instrumental in initiating Roger Federerâs now famous âRFâ logo.
In January 2013, Bevans was named a MIT Media Lab Directorâs Fellow along with CNN commentator Van Jones and distinguished alumni film director J.J. Abrams. The Directorâs Fellows continue to work closely with faculty and students on collaborative research and helping to expand MITâs global community.
Bevans has also created bespoke designs for clients such as Jay-Z, Pharrell Williams, New York icon Patrick McDonald, Daryl Hall, John Legend and Kanye West. Bevansâ determination to reach new heights in fashion and technology are the results of his relentless work and education with fabrics and technique. The DYNE label is the culmination of the immeasurable successes he has exhibited over a 20-year career certifying him as a modern-day pioneer.
JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation.
We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER Website: hallway.xyz
Instagram: @christopherbevans
THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY: Todayâs episode of the Trailblazers.FM podcast is brought to you by Brand You Academy.
There are more amazing Black men and women, who aren't poor, aren't criminals, aren't threats to our society, than those who are. Yet, the media's representation of Black people paint a different picture. If we are to alter the media's distorted portrayal, we must among other things, increase the number of Black tv owners, producers, journalists and experts who are the creators of content.
Iâm excited today to share in a conversation this week with Tunisha Brown, Founder and Editor-In-Chief of IMPACT Magazine and IMPACT TV, a platform that reaches hundreds of thousands daily.
JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Leading in purpose and with authenticity provides the strength, endurance, and desire to succeed in all areas of life.
OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: TRACY L. WILLIAMS, MS Today I share in a conversation with Tracy L. Williams, a nationally recognized leader committed to equity, social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion with expertise creating and executing strategies that uplift women and underserved populations through entrepreneurship, philanthropy, nonprofit, and corporate sectors.
Special thanks to Shawn Dove and to Proctor & Gamble for fueling and sponsoring this #TalkAboutBias series. JOIN OUR BLAZER NATION COMMUNITY Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation.
We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
CONNECT WITH TRACY L. WILLIAMS LinkedIn: Tracy L. Williams
Twitter: @ellephantparade
Instagram: @ellephantparade
THIS EPISODE WAS SPONSORED BY: Todayâs episode of the Trailblazers.FM podcast is brought to you by Brand You Academy.
How is society being biased, specifically against the segment of citizens who count themselves among the formerly incarcerated? Today I share in a deep conversation with Bishop Darren Ferguson, a preacher, teacher, singer, motivational speaker and social activist. In this conversation, Bishop Ferguson shares his own experiences going from prison to the pulpit and beyond. Special thanks to Shawn Dove and to Proctor & Gamble for fueling and sponsoring this #TalkAboutBias series. OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: BISHOP DARREN FERGUSON Born and raised in the village of Harlem and in the Bronx, NY, Darren A. Ferguson is known as a leader for this generation â a preacher, teacher, singer, motivational speaker and social activist. He serves as the 7th Pastor in the 102-year history of Bethel Baptist Church in Orange, NJ. He was recently appointed as the Reentry Coordinator for the City and will provide both services for returned citizens as well as create both Credible Messenger and Rites of Passage programs for the city.
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Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Healthy manhood is the solution to ending all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination and can improve the mental and physical health for men and boys.
OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: TED BUNCH Ted Bunch is an educator, author, activist, and lecturer working to end all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls. Bunch is Chief Development Officer of A Call to Men and is internationally recognized for his efforts to prevent violence against women while promoting a healthy, respectful manhood. He is a leading voice on male socialization, the intersection of masculinity and violence against women, and healthy, respectful manhood.
-- Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Whatever your focus - whether youâre a leader, a career professional or a business owner, youâve got to have a base line code or model that you follow and live by. In todayâs episode ALLAN HOUSTON and I discuss an unshakeable value system heâs developed for winning in life called FISLL.
This acronym stands for Faith, Integrity, Sacrifice, Leadership and Legacy.
OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: ALLAN HOUSTON Allan Houston lives his life with the determination to apply his success as a professional athlete to help others. After winning a gold medal as a member of the U.S. menâs basketball team at the 2000 Summer Olympics, and nine seasons with the NY Knicks, Houston created the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation (AHLF) which has served thousands of participants across the country through programs that promote youth mentoring, responsible fatherhood, and entrepreneurship. In addition, he has served as a spokesperson for the National Fatherhood Initiative, an international ambassador for the NBA, and an analyst for ESPN.
Allan Houston conceptualized FISLL (Faith, Integrity, Sacrifice, Leadership, and Legacy) based on principles learned from his parents and other models of leadership in his life. Through these Fundamentals of Life, he aims to share the keys that helped him grow as a student, an athlete, and most importantly, a son, father, and community leader. These life principles serve as a foundation for a healthy mind, body, and spirit, the essential needs for a Life in 3D, inspiring the book, The Fundamentals of Life: Life in 3D. This book is available in print and eBook wherever books are sold.
Desiree joins Stephen to discuss how to take care of yourself⌠know your limits⌠give yourself permission to not be ok⌠and seek the resources you need to be the best you.
OUR GUEST THIS WEEK: DESIREE S COLEMAN Desiree S. Coleman works to create equitable and empowering conditions for women & organizations. She is a consultant who has helped numerous groups redefine their diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) practices. Likewise, she has mentored and coached countless women to rediscover the Queen Within. Inspired by her daughters, Desiree speaks, writes, and curates events to empower women to be their best selves. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Syracuse University, is a Loyola Academy trustee and is the recipient of the 2019 Rising Star Award from Investment News.
Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Inspired by the loss of her aunt, this Black physicist Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green is on a quest to cure cancer in a revolutionary new way.
Dr. Green is one of the first African American women in the United States to earn a Ph.D. in physics, holds the distinction of being only the second African American woman and is the fourth African American to receive a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at
https://stephenahart.com/210
Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation
Follow Trailblazers.FM:
Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart
Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart
LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart
We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
You are a product of your choices, NOT a victim of your circumstances. Your biggest challenges can be transformed into the foundation for extraordinary personal growth.
Todayâs conversation is JT McCormick. JT is the President and CEO of Scribe Media and a bestselling author of the book I Got There: How a Mixed-Race Kid Overcame Racism, Poverty, and Abuse to Arrive at the American Dream
JTâs story is truly enthralling. It grips you the moment you hear about him... born the mixed-race son of a drug-dealing pimp father and a orphaned, single mother on welfare, who was raised in the slums of Dayton, Ohio, suffered incredible abuse and racism, and had multiple stints in the juvenile justice system. He barely graduated high school and you have no college degree.
Access our show notes for todayâs episode: https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking a few select partners for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
We've decided to optimize the messaging for Trailblazers.FM to become a podcast focused on exploring successful Black entrepreneurs. We will still feature the legendary creators, best-selling authors, and passionate leaders you have always enjoyed, but we are now able to truly double down and deliver even more targeted content for our self-driven entrepreneur community, so that whether youâre running a brick and mortar or youâre operating a side-hustle, youâll have top tier Black representation and digital mentors on the Trailblazers.FM platform, who have done something similar to what youâre working to create and/or that youâre doing now.
Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Dealing with an internal struggle? Are you mentally exhausted? Needing some motivational #missionfuel to help you build your #mentalstrength so you can manage your emotions and thoughts in 2020 with all that's going on? Itâs been 252 days since I last published an episode and so much has happened since then. I knew that I needed to talk about some of whatâs been happening with me in this âtime to be silentâ because 1) itâs helped me grow and get through a really tough valley season and 2) I know so many of you are dealing with a lot of mental challenges, struggles and emotions in this wild and crazy year, from dealing with the pandemic, to job and business losses and furloughs, to kids being home, social injustices, and a million other things in between. The world is out of control right now and our self care is mandatory if we are to survive and thrive going forward. Our featured guest today is Karen M. Allen. Karen was on the podcast previously (episode 118). In this episode, Karen helped me discuss and share some great insights, tips and mission fuel on helping us to build our mental strength. Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
Why is our mindset towards money so important?
When should we start a business?
When do you begin paying yourself as a business owner?
This episode was recorded in November of 2019 with our featured guest, Ash Cash Exantus. It was intended to be a part of our January 2020 wealth series which didnât happen when we paused the podcast back in January. But we couldn't wait to share this episode with Ash, because itâs still (if not even more) important that we take care of our mindset towards our money. No matter where youâre from what your background is or your current circumstance, you can have and do anything you want if you believe that you can and get your mind right.
If youâre unfamiliar with Ash Cash - he is one of the nationâs top financial educators. He was dubbed as the Financial Motivator, and he uses a culturally responsive approach to teaching financial literacy. He is also a speaker, bestselling author of many books and the Founder & CEO of MindRight Money ManagementÂŽ a financial education company that blends psychology & personal finance. Ash is best known for helping people maximize their full potential by giving them the inspiration, tools, & resources needed to live their best lives.
Blazer Nation, if youâre ready, go ahead and grab your note pad or open your fav note taking app and get set to receive todayâs money mindset mission fuel from our featured trailblazer, Ash Cash Exantus.
Feel free to access our show notes for todayâs episode over at https://stephenahart.com/podcast/ Youâre invited to join our Blazer Nation community and watch full length videos of some of our of conversations there, along with connecting with our tribe of other likeminded Black entrepreneurs and leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blazernation Follow Trailblazers.FM: Instagram: @TBPod @StephenAHart Twitter: @TBPod @StephenAHart LinkedIn: /in/stephenaihart We are seeking sponsors for Trailblazers.FM for our 2021 campaign. If youâd like to reach out to Stephen regarding sponsorship opportunities, please email stephen@stephenahart.com.
In the Bible, the book of Ecclesiastes⏠chapter â3 says  âThere is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.  The Word says there is âa time to be silent and a time to speakâ ââ Blazer Nation ... for the past 4 years Iâve spoken and shared over 200 episodes with you. Iâve always been honest with you guys and right now Iâm telling you the truth when I say that I am not in a great state of mind and Iâm entering a time where I believe I need to be silent and to be still.Â
Merry Christmas  Blazer Nation  Last week I shared an inspirational episode titled Acres of Diamonds, where I told you that you had all you needed and that somewhere within the work you are doing today,  lurked an opportunity which could bring you everything you could possibly want for yourself, your family and your career.  As I thought more about that, I wanted to follow up with one of the best episodes we had this year that was an example of someone tapping into their acres of diamonds. Weâre going back to March of this year and today youâll hear from one of my all time fav episodes on this podcast with our friend and trailblazer, Mignon Francois of the Cupcake Collection, who found her acres of diamonds.  If you hadnât yet done so, please consider joining our community. You can find us at stephenahart.com/blazernation.  So letâs not delay any further. Grab a pad and pen and get set to receive todayâs motivational mission fuel from Mignon Francois.  Enjoy!     Â
Today, Iâm going to share a story with you that was originally told by the founder of Temple University in Philadelphia, Dr. Russell Herman Conwell. He told this story more than 6,000 times all around the world. This famous inspirational lecture, Acres of Diamonds, has inspired me in so many ways and I'd like to share it with you today.
Your vision wants to come to fruition for you just as much as you want to see it for yourself. But a lot of people forget to do the work. You can't just slap a picture up on the board. That's nice, but what are you going to do to get there? What are the steps that you're going to take? And a lot of it has to do with mindset over money.
This week's feature is a PON DI REPLAY throwback to December 2016 with past trailblazer Lucinda Cross.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
Today, I lift my head and I see this seed that I planted over 200 weeks ago. And I didnât just plant it and leave it. No, I Â watered, nurtured and cared for this podcast (my baby) each and every week. Not a Monday morning at 5am went by that I didnât have an episode going live for you in nearly 4 years. And today, we celebrate yet another amazing milestone in episode 200.
There are so many of you who over the years have shared a DM or a WhatsApp, a text, a post or a tweet or a 5 star review and in whatever way you did that and given me a big ups, youâve let me know you care and that youâre listening.  And I canât tell you just how much I value and appreciate every  last one of those notes and messages.Â
My call to action today is to move from a pursuit of success to that of significance because what we are leaving, matters! What we leave will impact others ... for good or bad.
My ask today is that youâd join our NEW Blazer Nation facebook community.
Many of you might be online, but your website or social media profile doesn't have the right visual and verbal identity. You aren't clarifying your purpose and mission, and no one can really make sense of who you are, who youâre serving and what youâre serving. In today's episode, we discuss the 5 elements that helped me lay the right foundation for my podcast and personal brand to overcome some of these obstacles.
This week's featured trailblazer is yours truly, Stephen A. Hart.
In case you don't know ... I'm Stephen A. Hart and I'm a Brand Alignment Strategist who guides busy heart-centered entrepreneurs and leaders through a clear and proven process to build, market and grow their amazing personal brand. I also host this podcast, Trailblazers.FM, which is the #1 interview style podcast that explores stories of successful black professionals. The podcast has featured more than 150 black professionals and has been heard by more than 250,000 from 140 countries around the world.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
#Podcast #Podcasting #Trailblazer #BlackExcellence #BlackSuccess #PersonalBranding #PersonalBrand #Entrepreneur #Leaders #Leadership #TrailblazersFM
Teachers are blown away because they'll give me the kids that say they hate math and I'm like, yeah, I'll take them. That's what I look for. And from there they'll do more work in my class the first day meeting me than they would have the entire semester. So this is really impactful.
This week's featured trailblazer is Marcus Blackwell.
Marcus Blackwell is the CEO and Founder of Make Music Count, a math curriculum taught through music. He received a B.S in mathematics from Morehouse college and has played professional gospel piano since the age of 16.
Students are not performing well in mathematics. Marcus dedicates his energy to developing creative methods that convince students to embrace mathematics. His company is designed to go into the school systems to work directly with students connecting the mathematical dots where the traditional methods of teaching fall short. Marcus believes that he is able to connect well with students because he also struggled with math growing up and it was music that allowed him to eliminate the intimidation he had towards mathematics.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
Messaging is so important because it just makes it clear how you add value to your industry, and a lot of people just arenât clear about that.
Our featured trailblazer is Maya Elious.
Maya Elious is a personal branding strategist that teaches experts how to position themselves as the go-to authority figure in their industry so they can confidently launch their signature offer.
Sheâs helped hundreds of students and clients get clear on their message, confidently increase their prices, have successful five-figure launches with their masterclasses, webinars, courses, and programs. Her main mission is to help women increase their impact and income with their gifts and expertise.
When sheâs not helping her clients build their online empire, she can be found traveling, scrolling through IG, or watching Hulu.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
I want to create long-term wealth that will last multiple generations and that produces cash; among the different options to invest, real estate is a very, very clear option.
Our featured trailblazer is Tawan Davis.
Tawan Davis is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of The Steinbridge Group, which has structured, executed and invested nearly $1 billion in commercial and residential real estate. Under Mr. Davisâ leadershipâwhich includes managing the investment program and overseeing the day-to-day operations and transaction pipelineâSteinbridge is now investing more than $425 million in the urban single-family home market.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
As an entrepreneur and business owner, there is never enough learning that can be done.
Our featured guest is Raymond McKenzie.
Ray McKenzie, founder of Red Beach Advisors, an executive business and product strategy, operations, and process consultant with more than 20 years of experience with public, private, and start-up tech companies specializing in growth and scaling strategies.
Ray has held various senior executive positions with companies such as Verisign, Neustar, State Farm Insurance, TeleSign, UltraDNS and has served in an advisory role for several start-up companies in Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC. Ray McKenzie completed his studies in Management Information Systems from San Diego State University in 2001 and is a certified AWS Cloud Practitioner (CLF). Mr. McKenzie is also a certified Lean Six Sigma sensei (CLSSS) practitioner from Villanova University, is a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) from Scrum Alliance. Mr. McKenzie currently sits on the board of directors for non-profit organizations such as My Friendâs House, Inc. based in Los Angeles, CA and Students With Aspiring Goals based in Merced, CA and regularly speaks to groups of children and youth regarding entrepreneurship, leadership, and achievement. Ray is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
It really takes one step, one leap of faith, to grow something beyond what you ever imagined you could.
Our featured guest is Jeresha "Sherri J" White.
Sherri J started with one childcare facility and opened it because of her passion for education and children. She never imagined becoming a real business guru, opening five more childcare facilities, and starting a business coaching venture.
Needless to say, listeners should walk away from this podcast episode knowing that one baby step is still a step, and that one step could be the seed that starts your garden.
CONNECT WITH SHERRI J * Instagram: @successsouvenirs; @sherrijlovely * Website: www.successsouvenirs.com
3 of the many takeaways from my conversation today with Tammeca Rochester of Harlem Cycle: 1. No matter your college degree, you can create the life you want. 2. No career is absolute. At any point you can pivot and change direction 3. To open a business you don't need to be the expert but you need to surround yourself with those that are  Our featured guest today is Tammeca Rochester.
Tammeca Rochester is owner and founder of Harlem Cycle, Harlem's 1st and only indoor cycling studio. She has three academic degrees (Mathematics- Spelman College, Mechanical Engineering- The Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from the Stern Business School, New York University), multiple professional certifications, and several awards and honors. In 2016, she decided to turn her passion for fitness and open Harlem's 1st and only indoor cycling studio.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
Eric Thomas, aka E.T. The Hip Hop Preacher kicks off our first episode of the 2019 Trailblazers.FM Entrepreneurs series.
âThe version of you that you are right now is keeping you from being everything you should be. Who you are right now is responsible for why you're not where you supposed to beâŚ. who you are is keeping you from being who you should be and your dreams though, are the only thing that's telling you âCome on. Let's go!â Your dreams are the only thing that's telling âYou can do more. You can have more. You can be more! Come on, come on, come on! Donât be comfortable. Donât sit. DONâT SETTLE!â
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
The Black Male Equity Initiative is an interactive exploration of what wealth and equity look like and how you can build it. The intent of the Black Male Equity Program is to establish a foundation from which to build, grow, and expand the Legacy Wealth perspective of black men by measuring and monitoring four specific milestones and results of a black male cohort.
Our episode this week is a panel discussion about the first cohort of the Black Male Equity Initiative that took place in Detroit, Michigan. Our featured guests today are Dr. Pamela Jolly, Christopher Rutherford and Richard Grundy.
Dr. Pamela C.V. Jolly is Founder and CEO of Torch Enterprises Inc, a strategic investment firm committed to minority business growth and development. Torch Enterprises has assisted over 1000 entrepreneurs, national non-profits, trade organizations, the Federal Government, foundations and financial institutions.
Christopher Rutherford is a Promise of Place Manager in Detroit, developing strategies with community based organizations to improve life outcomes for Black men and boys. Chris has dedicated over 30 years in Michigan, helping young people from all communities to access opportunity.
Richard Grundy is the cofounder and CEO of JOURNi. JOURNi is a non-profit focused on decentralizing tech education for Detroiters. Through partnerships with workforce development agencies, schools, and other organizations, JOURNi has been able to train hundreds of youth in web-development and entrepreneurship skills vital to closing the digital divide in Detroit.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag Trailblazers.FM. Our handle on twitter and instagram is @tbpod
Cities United works to support the network of Mayors who are concerned with the issue of keeping young Black men and boys and their families safe, healthy and hopeful. Cities United partners with these leaders in the quest to reduce the homicide of Black men and boys by 50% by the year 2025.
Our featured guest today is Anthony Smith, CEO of Cities United.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
Being relational drives business. Your brand/business must be about more than just transactions in order for it to thrive. The beauty happens in between the transactions/deals. When you are relational, you step into the spaces between transactions, so to speak, and that step-in is what makes clients come back, makes them choose you, makes colleagues recommend you, and makes people want to work with you.
Our featured guest today is A. Nicole Campbell.
Nicole (Nic) is a mom first, and everything else falls into place because of it. She's an MIT graduate and an attorney who has served in senior leadership positions for two billionaire hedge fund giants.Â
Nic recently transitioned to a new role, having founded Build Up Advisory Group (February, 2019). Her firm specializes in designing and building systems to help nonprofits, philanthropies, social entrepreneurs, and philanthropists thrive. She's working to scale it to create the kind of workplace she's always wanted to work in.
Build Up, Inc. is a boutique capacity builder that holistically supports leaders of color and projects and nonprofits led by people of color that serve under-resourced communities. Probably the first of its kind, and hopefully it can serve as a model for other fiscal sponsors.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
When Black males start to achieve, the mobility rates for our community will pick up exponentially. Â That is the opportunity for us, but it is also the risk, if we donât.
Our featured guest today is Jim Shelton.
James âJimâ Shelton is Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Blue Meridian Partners.
In this role, Jim is investigating new areas where significant focused capital can help solve problems at scale and advising Blue Meridian. Jim is also a founding partner of Amandla Enterprises, Senior Advisor for Education at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and non-resident fellow at the Brookings Institute.
Prior to this, he served as President and Chief Impact Officer of 2U, Inc. and was deputy secretary at the US Department of Education (and head of its office of innovation and improvement) under President Obama. There, he served as the Executive Director of the Presidentâs My Brotherâs Keeper initiative and served on and led multiple interagency efforts focused on poverty reduction, economic development, entrepreneurship, and increased opportunity, such as the Investing in Innovation Fund, Promise Neighborhoods, and ConnectED.
Instead of helping children beat the odds, our work is about changing the odds for children.
Our featured guest today is Tonya Allen.
Tonya Allen, a serial âidea-preneur,â serves as The Skillman Foundationâs president & chief executive officer. Her two-decade-long career has centered on pursuing, executing and investing in ideas that improve her hometown of Detroit and increase opportunities for its people, especially children, who live in under-resourced communities. In her current role, Allen aligns the complexities of education reform, urban revitalization, and public policy to improve the well-being of Detroitâs and the nationâs children.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #TrailblazersFM
The driverâs seat is mine. I claim it. I am responsible for my career. I am responsible for the outcomes. No one else.
Our featured guest today is Simone Morris.
Simone Morris is CEO of Simone Morris Enterprises LLC, a thought leader in diversity and inclusion, specializing in directing organizations to leverage inclusion as a core strategy for competitive advantage as well as providing coaching to empower women to get in the driverâs seat for their careers. The firm is also a certified minority and women owned business. The company was founded in 2015 and is based in Norwalk, CT.
Ms. Morris has a background that includes over two decades in Corporate America spanning information technology, commercial strategy and human resources. She has been recognized for her exceptional leadership skills and holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut. She is a certified coach as well as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). She is also an adjunct faculty member for the American Management Association. Her key strengths include strategy, leadership, training and project management. She is skilled in creating and delivering training for and to adult learners. She is a member of the Association for Talent Development.
Simoneâs thought leadership can be found on various platforms (Glassdoor, Leadercast, Smart-Recruiters, Social-hire, and BambooHR) and she is also the author of The Power of Owning Your Career: Winning Strategies, Tools and Tips for Creating Your Desired Career and Achievement Unlocked: Strategies to Set Goals and Manifest Them.
CONNECT WITH SIMONE * Website: www.simonemorris.com * Twitter: @simonemorrisent * LinkedIn: Simone Morrise Enterprises LLC * Instagram: @simonemorrisent * Facebook: Simone Morris Enterprises
As leaders and those managing diverse talent, we should understand - How do we invest? How do we get the most out of our talent? How much of our talent are we willing to use?
Our featured guest today is Minda Harts.
Minda Harts is founder, speaker, adjunct professor, podcaster, seat creator and now an author. Minda is a California girl, who grew up in Chicago and today calls New York City home. In addition to her passion for helping women of color secure their seat at the table, she's also a lover of grits and rap lyrics.
Determine what makes you happy and find a way to make money doing that!
Our featured guest today is Marvin Wilmoth.
Marvin is Managing Principal and Co-founder of Generation Development Group, a boutique real estate development and consulting firm focused on providing housing solutions with the goal of creating transformational communities. Throughout the course of his career, he has been responsible for the financing, development and/or construction of over 1,800 units in multiple states and US territories with a total development cost of approximately $500 million dollars.
Marvin is also committed to civic service and was elected in November 2018 as the Vice Mayor and Harbor Island Commissioner for North Bay Village, Florida. Prior to being elected, Marvin served as Vice-Chair of the North Bay Village Planning and Zoning Board and Vice-Chair of the Charter Review Board. He is the recipient of several community awards including Success Magazineâs 2010 Top 40 under 40, 2012 Business Leader Magazine South Florida Movers and Shakers Award, and the 2016 BMe Community Leader Award. Marvin has also participated in several leadership programs including The Miami Foundationâs Miami Fellows Program, Leadership Floridaâs Connect Florida Program and The German Marshall Fundâs Marshall Memorial Fellowship.
Marvin earned a B.S. in Business Administration and an M.B.A. from Florida A&M University as well as an M.S. in Real Estate Development from Columbia University.
Happiness is a choice! It is an overarching quality of life that is rich in a variety of emotions, even including stress, sadness and disappointment.
Our featured guest today is Rochelle Gapere.
Rochelle Gapere is an Attorney, Happiness Coach and Entrepreneur. Known for bringing her charismatic personality and sheer joy for living to every experience and individual she encounters, Rochelle has mastered the art of living life fully and passionately.
The release of her Amazon bestselling book, One Happy Thought at a Time: 30 Days to a Happier You, cements her lifelong practice of adding more happiness to this world by empowering others with science-based tools and techniques that help them lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Rochelle believes in living a life that is engaging at every level and utilizes practical techniques to teach audiences her unique approach to living a happy life.
Know your why! Why are you passionate about what you're passionate about? And why do you want to make that a career?
Today's guest was one of those people who inspired me to launch Trailblazers.FM and was one of our very first conversations on the podcast back on on episode 7. Today, we spoke with Craig The Barber.
Craig the Barber is Hollywoodâs top source for menâs grooming needs, a role he has held for more than 10 years. But the true story is that Craig unknowingly began his journey toward becoming a master barber all the way back at the age of 14 years-old. Craigâs belief that being a well-groomed man does not mean going overboard and that any guy can take charge of his style and appearance with the right guidance.
Craig is a true example of how following oneâs passion will lead you to never âworkâ a day in your life because you will always love what you do. As he says himself, âLife is meant to be lived, not worked!â
Stay confident, and never let âI do not have enough moneyâ prevent you from following your dreams.
Today's guest is Henry Keculah. Henry was first featured on Trailblazers.FM episode 117
Henry Keculah, Jr., is the founder and CEO of 4.0 Growth Productivity Accountability (4.0 GPA.). Keculah is a first-generation American, and his parents immigrated to the U.S from Liberia.
Deep end leaders know that they have a particular calling on their lives and their primary job in life is to discover their unique purpose and mission.
Today's guest is a part of the Trailblazers.FM family and I'm so happy to have him be part of the 2019 Trailblazers Masterclass series. I'm happy to introduce Shawn Dove. Shawn was first featured on Trailblazers.FM episode 16.
In today's episode Shawn share some inspiration and wisdom about the 7 Câs of deep-end leadership: Calling, Courage, Completion, Credibility, Collaboration, Change and Coaching.
When we bet on later, everybody loses because later is not guaranteed.
The second week of our 2019 summer Trailblazers Masterclass series welcomes back Concita Thomas. Concita is a returning guest of Trailblazers.FM and was first featured on episode 66.
Concita Thomas is a Food & Fitness Strategist behind ConcitaThomas.com. She is on a mission to help busy women on the go, gain freedom from being overweight and unfit while avoiding diet traps and fitness obsessions. She helps by sharing easy to stick to food and fitness strategies, sprinkled with a healthy dose of encouragement and inspiration.
People love to love life when life feels good. But when life sucks, what are you going to do to overcome that struggle?
The first guest of our 2019 Trailblazers Masterclass Series is Chazz Scott. Chazz is a returning guest of Trailblazers.FM and was first featured on episode 135.
Charles (Chazz) Scott is a published writer, motivational speaker, self empowerment workshop curator, and an accomplished computer security technologist from Ellicott City, Maryland. He holds both a Bachelorâs of Science degree in Computer Science and a Masterâs of Science degree in Cyber Security from Hampton University.
Chazz is the Founder & Chief Creative Optimist of Positively Caviar, Inc. based in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Positively Caviar, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) that focuses on empowering, inspiring, and motivating all human beings, with a special emphasis on youth, to instill mental resilience by way of positive thinking. His team travels across the Mid-Atlantic delivering high-intensity speaking engagements and hosting their signature BUILD Self-Empowerment workshops that are designed to understand and apply the secrets and science behind the human mind.
When Chazz is not eradicating negativity, he is hunting hackers as a full-time Cyber Security Engineer at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency defending our Nationâs Cybersecurity infrastructure and satellites.
When someone googles you, the results they find are a digital first impression of you ... and what they see will leave them either more or less inclined to hire you.
Our featured guest today is yours truly, Stephen A. Hart.
Stephen A. Hart is host of Trailblazers.FM, a top interview style podcast that explores stories of todayâs successful black professionals. The podcast has featured more than 150 black professionals and has been heard by more than 200,000 from 132 countries around the world.
Stephen is a proud graduate of the University of South Florida, Tampa. He resides in Maryland, married to his wife Kristin of 11 years and the #bestdadever to his daughter Layla and son Nigel.
You are here for a reason and a purpose. Â Embrace the process not just the purpose.
Our featured guest today is Ralph Graves Jr.
Ralph D. Graves Jr. serves as Founder and Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Community Church in Millville, NJ. Ralph Graves is a Motivational Speaker, Business Consultant and Author. He is the Founder and Vice President of Cityâs Hope Community Development Corporation and Founder of Project U.
Discover how we can develop the routine and habits that will help us prioritize and grow as Christians.
Our featured guest today is Stephen Chandler.
Stephen Chandler is the bold, encouraging, life-giving Senior Pastor of Destiny Church.
Since its inception in 2011, Destiny Church has grown to a community of thousands of people and is known for its exciting culture and focus on leading entire families to a passionate relationship with God. Stephen has a passion to see people discover their God-given destiny, and has given his life to help others find fulfillment.
Stephen and his wife Zai reside in Columbia, Maryland with their two beautiful children Zoe and Roman.
No matter where you come from or what your past may look like, anything is possible with faith and a determination to win.
Our featured guest today is Robert Dawson.
High-Performance Entrepreneur, Dynamic Speaker & Business Consultant, Rob Dawson is internationally known for teaching people how to build successful businesses and bridge the gap between their dreams and their reality. His mission is to motivate, educate, and inspire over 1 BILLION people worldwide to live out their dreams and grow a business that matters.
Understand the different types of intellectual property and their options.
Our featured guest today is Andrea Evans.
Andrea Hence Evans, Esq. is the founder of an intellectual property law practice, The Law Firm of Andrea Hence Evans. Attorney Evans career path is unique since she worked at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for approximately 5 years as both a patent examiner and a trademark examining attorney after graduating from law school.
There is a difference between purified water vs restored water. "Just because it's clear doesn't mean it's cleanâ.
Our featured guest today is Troy Rackley.
Troy Rackley graduated from Ohio University in Industrial Engineering and received his MBA in Australia.  He served 20 years hard time with Nestle, Coke, Pepsi, Campbells Soup and Sherwin Williams.   In 2008, he began his entrepreneurial journey by starting his own company beginning with Executive Coaching and Manufacturing operations consulting. Through a few consulting projects he re-engineered some water technology that would eventually evolve into his core business.  NLP Aqua Solutions was born, and this business aligned with his passion for helping people to customize solutions for clean, fresh and safe water.  His business has expanded to healthcare, Agriculture, Aqua Culture, Hospitality as well as residential.  NLP Aqua Solutions is a global business with projects in Canada, Amsterdam, Sweden, Europe and all over the USA.  Â
Burnout is an epidemic that is killing doctors and patients alike.
Did you know that the number one cause of death for female physicians under 35 is suicide. Yes, Physicians have the highest rates of suicide of any career and female physicians are 250% more likely to commit suicide than any other occupation.
Our featured guest today is Dr. Thandeka Myeni.
Thandeka Myeni, MD, MPH, affectionately known as Dr Thandi, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with double specialty training in glaucoma, cataract surgery and LASIK. Dr. Myeni received her bachelorâs degree from Amherst College and later earned a masterâs degree in Public Health from Harvard University. She obtained her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and then completed her medical internship at Boston University Medical Center. Her ophthalmology training began with a residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, DC. She has completed two fellowships, one in Glaucoma at the top-ranked Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, and another in Cataract and Refractive Surgery with Dr. Paul Koch who has consistently been ranked among the top cataract surgeons in the country. While Dr. Myeni was born and raised in the United States, her family is originally from Southern Africa. She spent a large part of her childhood in Swaziland. My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
The human spirit is incredibly resilient and we all have the ability to create the life we want. It's about making mental shifts, implementing proven mental techniques and, of course, taking action (even if you can only see the first step of the staircase).
Our featured guest today is Gloria Mitchell.
Gloria Mitchell went from being homeless to coaching multimillionaires. Â Along her journey, Gloria overcame a difficult upbringing, an illness that left her short-term memory in the bottom 1% of the population, and a battle with homelessness that once even caused her to resort to sleeping in a Walmart dressing room! Â For many that is where the story would have ended. Â But not for Gloria. She went on to obtain an MBA from Stanford University and is now a highly sought-after personal crisis and performance coach who helps high-level entrepreneurs and public figures perform at their highest level and deal with the pressures that come with being at the top. Â She has spent over 15 years studying human resiliency and her clients include top-earning entrepreneurs, professional athletes and celebrities. My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
Finding your path in life, staying true to yourself and leaving a lasting positive impact on the world.
Our featured guest today is Maya French.
Maya French is a Co-Founder of Koia, the protein packed, 100 percent plant-based beverage that uses natural ingredients to deliver deliciously nutritious flavors. Maya struggled with food-based allergies, such as being lactose intolerant her whole life, until she discovered the benefits of plant-based proteins when college friend and fellow Koia Co-Founder, Dustin Baker, was testing out recipes in his Chicago kitchen. At this moment, Maya realized her calling was to create a functional product that would contribute to providing consumers with a healthier lifestyle. With only experience in journalism and fashion retail, Maya took a leap of faith into unknown territory to follow her dreams and partnered with Baker to launch Koia. My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
Through experiential marketing we create environments for our clients to touch and feel their consumers and in parallel let their consumers touch and feel them in their environments.
Our featured guest today is Marcus Damas.
Marcus Damas is an Entrepreneur, retired professional basketball player, and devoted husband and father based in New York City. Before playing in Swedenâs professional basketball league for the Solna Vikings, Marcus played Small Forward for the Towson Tigers, Towson Universityâs NCAA Division 1 team in the state of Maryland, where he is on the top 20 all-time scoring list.
Following his basketball career, Marcus returned to New York City to pursue a career in creative leadership as the Founder and CEO of Fueled by Culture. Fueled by Culture is a burgeoning creative marketing agency that specializes in connecting and empowering brands with influencers through innovative content and experiential event programming. FBC clients and partners include Avion, Lyft, Hooch, and Postmates to name a few. Marcus Damas is also a key note speaker at marketing conferences around the world.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
Anyone with the right work ethic, leadership skills, and dedication can build a multi-million dollar business.
Our featured guests today are Steve and Pasha Carter.
Pasha Carter is an NFL Cheerleader turned Multi-Millionaire, who took a $500 investment and turned it into a multi-million dollar empire. Sheâs an internationally sought after speaker, trainer and Direct Sales Expert.
Steve Carter is a Howard University alum who also built a multi-million dollar networking business. Steve now travels the country training and teaching others how to build successful businesses of their own. Heâs now one of the most powerful success coaches in the world.
Together, this is Americaâs favorite business couple and Iâm so happy to share this conversation with our community.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
Itâs not enough to just be the first or the largest, you have to pave the way for the next.
Our featured guest today is T. Dallas Smith.
Dallas is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at T. Dallas Smith & Company.
He leads all new business development initiatives. His role includes overseeing all brokerage affairs related to the company and providing chief liaison services to key clients.
Dallas began his commercial real estate career in 1982 at Atlanta Air Center Realty under the guidance of Thomas W. Tift as leasing and management representative for the portfolio. In 1989, he became the first African-American broker at Cushman & Wakefield of Georgia. His affiliation with the company opened doors for many minority brokers. In 1995, he pioneered the brokerage division for H.J. Russell & Company, an African-American owned construction and management firm, where he served as VP of the Brokerage Division. Dallas led the company initiative of acquiring 40 parcels of real estate, a full city block in the intercity of Atlanta resulting in a mixture of office, retail and multifamily developments now valued at over $20 million. In 2006, with the blessing of the late Herman Russell, Dallas opened T. Dallas Smith & Company, specializing in tenant representation. T. Dallas Smith & Company has led projects across the country with metrics exceeding more than seven million square feet of commercial property leasing and acquisitions and five thousand acres of land purchases. Since its inception, the team has grown exponentially successfully leading transactions totaling over $15 billion in aggregate value. Dallas is an innovator and thought leader in the commercial real estate community and is intentional about cultivating and developing diverse talent to help shape the commercial real estate industry. My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
"Youâre going to have your valley moments. Youâre going to fail. Youâre going to hit road blocks and delays. When those seasons come about and they will, just keep going. Keep watering the seed you'd planted. Keep giving it good soil and sunshine. And just be patient. Have faith and believe in yourself and whatâs to come"
Today is a solo episode from your host, Stephen A. Hart.
Stephen A. Hart is the founder of Isles Media, LLC, and a Brand Alignment Strategist who guides busy entrepreneurs and leaders through a clear and proven process to build, market and grow their amazing personal brand.
Trailblazers.FM, is the #1 interview style podcast, hosted by Stephen A. Hart, that explores stories of todayâs successful black professionals. The podcast has featured more than 150 black professionals and has been heard by more than 200,000 from 126 countries around the world.
Stephen is a dynamic speaker on the topics of personal branding, entrepreneurship, marketing and podcasting, and is part of the 2016 class of the Black Enterprise 100 Modern Men of Distinction. Stephen has also been featured on the home page of Apple Podcasts, Thrive Global, BETâs Centric TV, and Fortune.com.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
Discover this go-to resource that helps when something bad happens to someone that you care about â whether itâs death, a serious illness, divorce, or a miscarriage.
Our featured guest today is Marisa Renee Lee.
Marisa Renee Lee, Co-Founder of Supportal, a platform that makes it easier for you to respond when someone you care about is facing a life-changing challenge, is a cross-sector leader dedicated to engaging the private sector to solve public problems. Marisa previously served as the Managing Director of the My Brotherâs Keeper Alliance. Prior to joining MBKA, Marisa served in a variety of roles in the Obama administration including the Deputy Director of Private Sector Engagement and as a Senior Policy Advisor for the Domestic Policy Council and at the Small Business Administration.
Marisa began her career in international finance at Brown Brothers Harriman and during her time there, she founded The Pink Agenda, a breast cancer non-profit, in honor of her mother Lisa. Almost a decade later, The Pink Agenda is now a national organization of young professionals committed to raising money for breast cancer research and direct care service programs in partnership with The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Marisa has been a featured speaker at several forums including SXSW. Marisa has also written op-eds on grief, race, opportunity, and economic mobility for CNN, Philanthropy News Digest, News One, Huffington Post, and other outlets. In 2017 she was selected as a member of the âPower 100â by Ebony Magazine among other community crusaders she admires.
Marisa Renee Lee is a graduate of Harvard College and an avid Green Bay Packers fan. She resides in Falls Church, Virginia with her husband Matt and their dog Sadie.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
"Little becomes much when you place it in the master's hands!"
Our featured guest today is Mignon Francois.
Mignon Francois is the Founder and CEO of The Cupcake Collection (TCC). While crunching numbers and creating the craze are amongst her job requirements, her favorite responsibilities within this role are giving hugs, listening, and mentoring her team and other up and coming entrepreneurs who seek after her grass roots experience.
Using her âFollow Your Spiritâ approach, Mignon developed an iconic flavor that drew lines and attention to the hip nature of her Historic Germantown neighborhood that hadnât seen this concept developed prior. The success of TCC thereby became icing on the cake amongst the existing North Nashville restaurateurs that would ignite a new movement to the area for other business concepts that might not otherwise have considered doing business in North Nashville.
Since planting its roots in 2008, Mignonâs business savvy has earned her the titles of âWoman of Legend and Meritâ by Tennessee State University, âEmerging Business Leader of the Yearâ and Black Enterprise Magazine âFamily Business of the Year Awardâ.
My ask today is that youâd help share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
"Up until 2011, neither the VA or HUD even counted homeless women veterans as a homeless population. They didn't even know that they existed or tracked them!"
Our featured guest today is Jas Boothe.
Fmr. Army Major Jas Boothe is a Chicago Native, Disabled Veteran, Cancer Survivor, Filmmaker and Speaker who gave over 17 years of service to this great nation.
Jas Boothe is the President and Founder of Final Salute Inc (www.finalsaluteinc.org); providing homeless women Veterans with safe and suitable housing. Final Salute Inc is the only non-profit in the DC Metro are that specifically supports the unique housing needs of homeless female veterans and their children; there are currently 55,000 homeless female Veterans nationwide.
Jas founded Final Salute Inc. due to her life being torn apart by Hurricane Katrina, homelessness and cancer in 2005. Jas was a single mother in the Army Reserves who was headed to Iraq. Due to her efforts and tireless advocacy, Final Salute Inc has raised over 3 million dollars, supported over 5,000 women Veterans and children and provided over 12,600 days of housing since 2011.
My ask today is that youâd share this episode. If you're posting to social, please tag @tbpod and use the hashtag #missionfuel
"With an eye and vision for the future, I saw that tech was an ecosystem that people of color were not participating in."
Our featured guest today is Christina Lewis.
Christina Lewis is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of All Star Code, a computer science nonprofit that empowers Black and Latino young men with skills, networks and mind-sets to become entrepreneurs and succeed in the technology sector.
Christina is a member of the Board of the Reginald F. Lewis Foundation and Chair of the Class of 2002 Associates Committee for Harvard College, her alma mater. She is also on Hunter Collegeâs Computer Science Advisory Board, and is an angel investor and advisor to other entrepreneurs.
My ask today is that youâd share this episode. If you're posting to social, please use the hashtag #missionfuel
Be honest with yourself about what youâre good at doing!
Today, C. David Moody Jr. returns to Trailblazers.FM for his second feature on the podcast. Sir David was one of my very first guests way back on episode 11.
Charles David Moody, Jr. is the President and Chief Executive Officer of C.D. Moody Construction Company, Inc., a Black Enterprise BE 100s listed company for several consecutive years. Mr. Moody is a graduate of both Morehouse College and Howard University. Today, he runs one of Atlanta's top private companies, responsible for helping build several iconic landmarks.
My ask today is that youâd share this episode. If you're posting to social, please use the hashtag #missionfuel
Every Black History Month we celebrate our Black athletes, civil rights leaders and artists. But too often we overlook our legacy as Black entrepreneurs, business owners and executives, despite having just as deep a legacy in those areas.
Today, Alfred Edmond Jr. returns to Trailblazers.FM for his third feature and second of what we hope to be an annual episode of Alfred sharing stories of our Black business legends.
Alfred is the Senior Vice President and Executive Editor-at-Large of Black Enterprise.
Some time ago, Alfred brought it to my attention that there's often very little conversation about black legacy in business. That fueled my invitation to him to join me on episode 107 for our first Black business legends episode. That episode has gone on to become one of our most downloaded episodes ever on this podcast.
Here are a few of the people whoâve had an impact on the Black community and Black business, and in many cases changed American business in many ways:
- Barry Gordie
- Tom Burrell
- Comer Cottrell
- Cathy Hughes
My ask today is that youâd share this episode with your family, friends and others in the Black community. If you're posting to social, please use the hashtags #blackbusinesslegend and #missionfuel Letâs be reminded of those who paved a path for us. Itâs on us to keep these business legends top of mind and ensure they are never forgotten.
What are the laws of creating wealth?
Our featured trailblazer today is  Dr. Dennis Kimbro.
Heâs spent his entire career interviewing peak performers all over the world, and gleaning the best ideas, strategies and success principles from their words. Heâs heard the same things enough times to know that all people who succeed tend to follow the same path and that all people who have not succeeded yet tend to fall into the same pit over and over again.
Dennis Kimbro is a best-selling author of five books, writing partner and master trainer for the prestigious Napoleon Hill Foundation, and is on the faculty at Clark Atlanta University School of Business Administration. He is a recipient of the Dale Carnegie Personal Achievement award.
I need your help right now to share this episode. Someone you know needs to hear todayâs message.
Learn key strategies to building wealth and legacy despite an individual's starting point.
Our featured trailblazer today is Jay Morrison.
A successful entrepreneur and business mogul, Jay Morrison is the CEO and founder of several organizations including the historic Tulsa Real Estate Fund, and the Jay Morrison Academy, which was featured on Inc.âs 2018 List of Fastest Growing Companies. Beating the odds after growing up in poverty, dropping out of high school and serving time in prison for drug trafficking, Jay was able to turn his life around by breaking into real estate and becoming one of the industryâs biggest influencers. Jay is truly on a lifelong mission to bridge the wealth gap and provide accessible education and business opportunities to those who need it most. I need your help right now to share this episode. Someone you know needs to hear today's message.
What does being financially independent mean for you?
Our featured trailblazer today is Jamila Souffrant.
Jamila Souffrant is a podcaster, writer and founder of JourneyToLaunch.com where she shares her journey to reach Financial Independence and helps others do the same. As a money expert who âwalks her talkâ she helps brave Journeyers; gain clarity around their finances and create an actionable plan to reach their goals. Because of her money habits, Jamila and her husband saved $169,000 in two years and are debt free besides their mortgage. She is also a mom of three young children and currently lives in NYC. Her mission is to teach, inspire and help others reach Financial Freedom & Independence through her platform. The Journey To Launch podcast was named one of â27 Podcasts You Need To Start Listening To In 2018" by BuzzFeed. Jamila is also the resident financial expert on a weekly segment on News12, the most watched local TV news-station in NYC and has been featured in other notable media outlets such as Money Magazine, ESSENCE Magazine, TIME, Business Insider, Refinery29, CNBC & CBS I need your help right now to share this episode. Someone you know needs to hear today's message.
Are you ready to discover how we overcome student loan debt and build a life of financial security and wealth?
Our featured trailblazer today is Lauryn Williams.
Lauryn Williams is a 4-time Olympian, 3-time Olympic medalist and the first American woman to medal in both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.
While pursuing professional sports Lauryn interacted with not one but two financial advisors that didnât provide the services she needed. She asked friends what they were doing about their finances and the answers were vague and unsettling. Constantly looking for ways to make a difference in the lives of others she decided to put her Finance degree and MBA to use to fill the gap for young professionals. Eager to learn everything she then pursued the Certified Financial planning certification.
Her company, Worth Winning, offers virtual services to help young professionals get the answers to the financial question that matter most to them. Whether that is creating a budget, figuring out a plan for paying off student loans, setting goals for savings or understanding your 401(k) Worth Winning is ready to help with all things personal finance.
I need your help right now to share this episode. Someone with student loans needs to hear today's message.
In this episode you will learn: * What Lauryn learned as she pivoted from track & field to bobsledding to a career beyond athletics * What's driving Lauryn in the work she's doing today * The challenges that stand in the way of building wealth, when youâve got student loan debt * Ways we can overcome our student loan debt and begin building a life of financial security
What are the mistakes we need to teach our children and young adults to avoid? What tips can young people graduating college benefit from knowing that'll help to set the right foundation financially?
Our featured trailblazer today is Anthony ONeal.
At the age of 19, Anthony ONeal was deep in debt, homeless and had little hope for where his life was headed. But after hitting rock bottom, he turned his life around and committed to helping students find and pursue their passions. Since 2015 as a part of the Ramsey Solutions team, Anthony has helped thousands of students make good decisions with their career, money, relationships and education to live a well-balanced life.
I need your help right now to share this episode with our parents, students and young adults who need to hear this content and take action today toward creating a plan, following a budget and beginning to lay a foundation for building wealth.
In this episode you will learn: * The top mistakes students and young adults must avoid * The amount of student loan debt an average student is leaving college with * 3 tips for college grads to begin to handle a salary wisely and lay the right wealth building foundation * Why Anthony recommends moving back home after college for a year
Connect with Anthony ONeal: * Instagram: @anthonyoneal * Twitter: @AnthonyONeal * Website: www.anthonyoneal.com * Facebook: Anthony Oneal
It doesnât matter where you come from; it doesnât matter where you start; itâs about us growing and learning things so we can move forward.
It's the first episode of 2019 and today we begin a new Wealth Building series. It's the second year we're committing our first six episodes to talk about wealth.
The reason we begin here, is that our wealth gap is so wide. So much so, that a recent study said it'll take 228 years, if ever, to get median black households to the level of wealth median white households own today. And if nothing else changes, we're trending to ZERO wealth by 2053. Those warning flags are why I began having more direct conversations about the topic of wealth, in hopes of educating and giving our community some practical advice to help reverse this cycle and begin to close this gap.
But I need your help right now to share this episode, because more black families need to hear this content and take action today if we're ever going to effect real meaningful change.
Our featured trailblazer today is Chris Hogan.
Chris Hogan is a #1 national best-selling author, dynamic speaker and financial expert. For more than a decade, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, spreading a message of hope to audiences across the country as a financial coach and Ramsey Personality. Hogan challenges and equips people to take control of their money and reach their financial goals, using The Chris Hogan Show, his national TV appearances, and live events across the nation.
His second book, Everyday Millionaires: How Ordinary People Built Extraordinary Wealth â And How You Can Too releases January 7, 2019 and is based on the largest study of net-worth millionaires ever conducted.
In this episode you will learn: * What the term net worth means? And how net worth determines if you're a millionaire. * What 74% of millennials believe about inheritance. * Five attributes and habits of millionaires. * The #1 thing millionaires used to build wealth. * Why Chris encourages paying off your mortgage quickly using a 15 year fixed loan.
Today is the last Monday of the year. I am grateful youâre choosing to lend a few precious minutes in this final day of 2018. As we exit one year and get set to begin another, I reflect on all the blessings Iâve received by way of this podcast. Just in 2018 alone, we were blessed to be a blessing, by sharing the journey of dozens of amazing black professionals with almost 100,000 people in 112 countries around the globe. We were also blessed to have a feature on the home page of Apple Podcasts, and in several other media outlets. For some of you, that sounds like a lot and for others it sounds like a little. And thatâs fine either way. But Iâm especially reminded that none of this happens, if I hadnât gotten out of my own fears just 3 Christmasâ ago and conducted my very first interview of Donald C. Kelly on Dec 28 2015. I was nervous. I didnât know if I could be a podcast host. I didnât know if people would like my idea, or my approach and definitely was concerned about people embracing my voice. To this day, I still donât like to listen to the sound of my own voice, but Iâm thankful you feel differently lol. I wanted to wish you and your family a happy new year and encourage you as this new year begins, to rise above go way beyond and be ready to blaze your trail. Next week we begin our 2nd annual Wealth Series. Kicking off that series is Mr. Chris Hogan of the Dave Ramsey Network. You do not want to miss out on what Chris will have to share. And this series is 6 weeks long and packed with gems. So get set to start 2019 off right. Tell some of your friends and fam about Trailblazers and help them get onboard with the right kinda mission fuel theyâll need for 2019 So instead of blabbing on myself, I thought we could do something fun to take us from 2018 and into 2019. So Mike Slavish, our podcast editor helped us put together this amazing compilation of maybe 20 of the guests weâve featured in 2018, sharing their response to the question we ask all our guests at the end of each show: And so hereâs their response to the question that I know many of you probably have memorized now: Whatâs one action our Blazer Nation should take this week, that will help them to blaze their trail âŚ
Dr Mildred Peyton talks about bullying. Her message is applicable to kids and adults alike. Youâll come away understanding that our pain can drive us to help others or bring about some positive change.
Dr. Mildred Peyton is a bullying survivor, expert, and a childrenâs author of two books, A Bully on the School Bus and Sophia Writes To Her Bully. Despite having a Ph.D. in Human and Social Services (with a concentration in Social Policy Analysis & Planning), a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and Sociology and a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, she still experienced bullying firsthand both on the job and in her role as a mother trying to protect her children.
As an expert on bullying, she speaks from her heart and real-world experience. She knows the denial, pain, frustration, embarrassment, guilt, and sometimes even downright rage that consumes you when you or someone you love is being taken advantage of. Dr. Peyton guides her clients as a consultant and trainer through the process of joining her on the other side of establishing and maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and school environment to ensure greater success for all. Also included in her work, she provides one-on-one guidance to parents, students, and employees who are experiencing bullying and harassment.
Lastly, Dr. Peyton's doctoral research study entitled, Exploring the Meaning of School Bullying Among Parents of Victimized Children, along with hands-on educational training in facilitating focus groups and mentoring programs for students experiencing bullying and harassment are among some of her work which has demonstrated her commitment to cultivating safer schools and helping students. As for workplaces, Dr. Peyton's personal experience working in a toxic work environment inspired her to support and work with employers in creating and maintaining healthy workplace atmospheres where all employees will feel valued and respected.
Known as the Corporate Ally, Denise Harris empowers executive women to go from plateau to breakthrough. A dynamic and vibrant speaker, Denise Harris will give you the power to amplify your strengths, strategize to win and emerge as the highest version of yourselves.
Scott is the Managing Director of Dream Entertainment Limited, the company behind Jamaicaâs largest and most impactful music festival â Dream Weekend, the countryâs biggest Carnival Mas Band â Xodus Carnival and in 2019 will execute the Dream Weekend Cruise â Jamaicaâs first owned entire cruise ship charter.
One Action To Blaze Your Trail: Just do it! Most people know what they want to do deep down. If you're really passionate about something, you just have to go out and do it. Don't be reckless, still be calculated. If you have a dream and a passion, at least get started on it.
Thanks for Listening! Please help us expand the reach of this podcast. Follow and share the podcast with your friends on:
Twitter:Â @TBPod
Instagram:Â @TBPod
Facebook:Â /TBPod
If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more trailblazers by leaving us a 5 star review! Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
This year was truly successful in so many ways and I want to highlight the 3 things that aided in my success for 2018.
Kori Hale is CEO of Culture Banx, a company that's redefining business news for minorities.
Hale joined Cheddar in October 2016 from CNBC, where she was a producer of its top-rated shows âSquawk on the Streetâ and âSquawk Alley.â Prior to joining CNBC, Kori was an international producer for Bloomberg TV and a financial correspondent for TheStreet.com.
She previously worked at UBS Investment Bank in London and also as an investment banker for Goldman Sachs.
Hale received her undergraduate degree in finance from Hampton University and a masters degree in digital broadcast journalism from Syracuse University. She is a board member for Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts.
RM Harrison is business strategist and pivot consultant, helping women entrepreneurs build a path to personal fulfillment in their careers, so they can avoid burnout and sustain the motivation they need to achieve their fullest potential.
As the author of "The Pivot Map: Uncovering Your Path to Sustainable Success...", RM literally wrote the book on how to pivot when you've hit an emotional and motivation plateau in business.
And when she isn't glued to her laptop, you can find her out scouting for the best eggs benedict dish in her new hometown, Austin, TX.
Connect with RM: * Twitter: @hellormharrison * LinkedIn: RM Harrison * Websites: RM Harrison * Instagram: _hellormharrison
Thanks for Listening! Please help us expand the reach of this podcast. Follow and share the podcast with your friends on:
Twitter: @TBPod
Instagram: @TBPod
Facebook: /TBPod
If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more trailblazers by leaving us a 5 star review! Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Rohan Gilkes is a serial entrepreneur who has built several multi-million dollar companies in a few short years. He was recently voted one of the 100 most influential African Americans by the Root and has been recognized by the Obama White House for his work in entrepreneurship.
Rohan has developed and presented business case studies for Catholic University and Northwestern University's MBA programs. In addition, he is a regular speaker at startup conferences, and is a member of the Young Entrepreneur's Council.
Kwame Christian is a business lawyer, an accomplished Ted Talk speaker and founder of the American Negotiation Institute. Kwame hosts a podcast called Negotiate Anything where he shares powerful persuasion techniques.
Buy Kwame's New Book: Nobody Will Play With Me: How to Use Compassionate Curiosity to Find Confidence in Conflict by Kwame Christian Book Description:
It doesnât make sense to give recipes to people who are afraid to get in the kitchen.
The best things in life often lie on the other side of difficult conversations. However, fear and anxiety often overwhelm us and prevent us from standing up for ourselves and, as a result, we donât get what we want or deserve.
This book will give you the confidence you need to overcome the psychological and emotional barriers that surround difficult conversations. Youâll cultivate a winning mindset and learn how to consistently put yourself in the best position for success.
Youâll learn the the Compassionate Curiosity Framework to approach every difficult conversation, whether at home or at work.
Endorsement:
"The unique, robust approach offered in this book will give you the confidence and strategy you need to overcome anxiety and get the most out of your difficult conversations."
Yvette McGee Brown, Former Ohio Supreme Court Justice
Charitable Purpose:
100% of the sales the first week will go to the United Wayâs efforts to fight poverty!
BLACK MEN AND BOYS MATTER. They are assets to our communities and our country. As a nation, we cannot truly prosper when any group of people is excluded and forced to exist on the fringes of society. The well-being of Black men and boys has a direct influence on the strength of our families, communities and our nation as a whole.
2018 MARKS THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY of the Campaign for Black Male Achievement (CBMA).
Launched in 2008 as a three-year initiative at the Open Society Foundations, CBMA became independent in 2015, stretching the initiativeâs original three-year term limit into a decade of accelerating investments in Black men and boys to unprecedented levels.
To build beloved communities across America, where Black men and boys are healthy, thriving and enabled to achieve their fullest potential â this is CBMAâs core mission and rallying cry. There is much to acknowledge in the organizationâs decade-long efforts to generate more than $320 million in investment for Black men and boys, while sparking the tremendous growth of an entire field dedicated to Black male achievement to support improved life outcomes for all young men of color.
Investing in young people in a critical way is important. We can't move our work forward if we aren't moving young people forward.
Torie Weiston-Serdan is a scholar and practitioner with over eleven years of teaching and youth programming experience. She received her Ph.D. in Education from Claremont Graduate University at the age of 30 and has dedicated her life and career to teaching and mentoring young people in her community. She does extensive work with community-based organizations in support of their youth advocacy efforts, specializing in training mentors to work with diverse youth populations; i.e. Black, Latinx, LGBTQ, First Generation College Students and Low-Income Youth.
After over 10 years as a powerhouse sales executive at Fortune 500 companies, Nicole Walters quit her job live on Periscope in front of 10,000 people to start her own business.
Less than one year later, sheâd grown The Monetized Life⢠into a transformative lifestyle brand and helped hundreds of entrepreneurs generate millions in revenue.  Through online courses, consulting and networking, Nicole teaches everyday entrepreneurs how to use the strategies she mastered in the corporate world to build multiple streams of income out of their passions, reclaim financial independence and find provision in their purpose.
Joshua DuBois is one of our countryâs top voices on community partnerships, religion in the public square, and issues impacting African Americans.
Joshua led the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships in President Obamaâs first term and was called the Presidentâs âPastor-in-Chiefâ by TIME Magazine.Â
Joshua is the author of the bestselling book, The Presidentâs Devotional: The Daily Readings that Inspired President Obama, a compilation of the devotional meditations he shared with the President and narratives of faith in public life.
Today, Joshua leads a consulting firm, Values Partnerships, that develops creative engagement campaigns for diverse sectors and audiences, provides strategic advice on complex issues, and markets and produces films and television programs with meaning and value.
BEFORE NICOLE ROBERTS JONES WAS A BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER AND CEO OF FIERCE FACTOR LAB, she was an entrepreneur, who was struggling to make ends meet -- for 17 years! When she finally hired a coach, working with her showed Nicole why she wasn't making money in her business.
"Once I got clear on my gift and stopped trying to be like everybody else, things changed," she says.
In just one year, Nicole went from making $13,000 a year in her business to making $200,000 a year in her business. Now she teaches other women entrepreneurs and executives her formulas for how to create a blueprint for a profitable business based on their unique expertise, how to align their purpose with their paychecks and make money while they sleep, and how to unapologetically tap into their FIERCE!
There are many businesses that begin between siblings. There are many success stories and probably many more untold failures of these types of businesses. If you'd like to learn from a sibling duo that is thriving, you'll want to listen to today's featured guests, Stephen Carter and Sterling Carter of Sterling Staffing Solutions.
Sterling Staffing Solutions, headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas, and founded in 2011, staffs more than 800 employees and contractors throughout Texas and Oklahoma including rural areas surrounding Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
Twin brothers Stephen Levi Carter is CEO and partner and Dr. Sterling Carter is COO and partner. The business has twice won the Gold Stevie Award in the category of Minority Owned Business from The American Business Awards in 2017 and 2018. It also won the Gold Stevie Award in the category of Veteran Owned Business in 2018.
The business has been named to the Inc. 2017 5000 list for the second consecutive year. In addition to winning the 2018 Black Enterprise Family Business of the Year award and being a 2017 Black Enterprise Family Business of the Year Finalist, it won the Greater Houston Black Chamberâs 23rd Annual Pinnacle Award and the Greater Houston Better Business Bureauâs 2017 Pinnacle Award. It also won 2018 Greater Houston Better Business Bureauâs Awards for Excellence and 2018 Winner of Distinction Award.
The business and brothers have been featured in local to national media reaching millions. The brothers are slated to release a book through ForbesBooks â a publishing arm of the Forbes brand â this fall.
Are you interested in building a business based on your invention or idea? So am I. I interviewed business man Joshua Esnard for this week's episode.
Joshua Esnard was formerly a 13-year-old who was sick of his father's haircuts and unable to get to the barbershop.
The St. Lucia-native is now the Inventor/CEO of The Cut Buddy, the beard and haircut grooming template, that rode the wave of internet virality to become a #1 Best-Seller on Amazon, featured in GQ and Forbes, and a deal with Daymond John on ABC's Shark Tank last fall.
Our guest today is Janice Bryant-Howroyd. She is a businesswoman, entrepreneur, educator, ambassador, author, mentor and Presidential Special Appointee.
Janice is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The ActOne Group, a global leader providing customized cutting edge solutions in the human resources industry.
She's currently listed at #54 in the Forbes 2018 list of Americaâs Richest Self-Made Women. In 2014, she was recognized by Black Enterprise as the first black woman to own and operate a billion-dollar company.
In May of 2016 Janice received a key Presidential appointment by President Barack Obama as a member of the Presidentâs Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Janice has traveled to over fifty countries promoting education and the powerful impact it has on communities around the world. Her accomplishments, both personal and professional, are inspired by her deep faith and her love for her family. She says, âOne cannot effectively lead without passionately serving."
Janice is a truly remarkable woman who started from the ground up, and is constantly learning and adapting to the world around her. But doing so while remaining true to self.
Check out the full episode over at tbpod.com/janicebryanthowroyd
Thanks in advance for sharing this episode. It's my prayer this week that this episode gets the reach it needs to reach far and wide. This episode really has the ability to help so many women, black professionals and entrepreneurs on every level.
What are you saying to yourself to overcome your challenges, to push yourself beyond your human potential, to find your purpose and to really push yourself to who you were meant to be? My guest on today's episode is Charles (Chazz) Scott, a published writer, motivational speaker, and an accomplished computer security technologist from Ellicott City, Maryland. He holds both a Bachelorâs of Science degree in Computer Science and a Masterâs of Science degree in Information Assurance from Hampton University. Chazz is the Founder of a 501(c)(3) non-profit called Positively Caviar, Inc. in the Baltimore Washington metropolitan area. His nonprofit focuses on empowering, inspiring, and motivating all human beings, with a special emphasis on youth, through the imperative mindset of positivity and optimism by way of digital media and self-empowerment workshops. In this episode, Chazz shares that there is true science that suggests you can change your mental state, your emotions, and instill mental habits, tips and techniques to overcome trials and tribulations. Check out the full episode and show notes over at tbpod.com/chazzscott #Motivation #Science #Podcast #MissionFuel #ChazzScott #StephenAHart
Tiffany F. Southerland is a career coach and founder of Four Corners Coaching, host of How Does She Do It podcast and helps individuals identify their gifts and strengths.
Keisha Smith-Jeremie shares 3 leadership gems in today's replay. Especially valuable episode for those in corporate leadership.
I am a Brand Alignment Strategist, and what that means is that I help individuals create their amazing personal brand and an impressive digital footprint.
If youâre interested in learning more about my upcoming Brand You Academy, sign up now: stephenahart.com/brandyou
Dre Baldwin is the worldâs only Work On Your Game expert. A 9-year international professional basketball player, Dre teaches Mental Toughness, Self-Confidence and Self-Discipline to athletes, entrepreneurs and business professionals. On YouTube since 2006, Dreâs content has been viewed over 39 million times by 120,000 subscribers.
We have 6 months left in this year to figure out what the rest of this year will look like for us. How far are you willing to go to get your goals accomplished?
What can you do to knock off a couple of things that you wanted to get done by the end of this year? Itâs time to take control and get to your desired state!
Weâve got a really short but powerful episode for you today. My sista from anotha mista, Ms. Minda Harts is on today. Minda is the host of the Secure The Seat Podcastand co-founder of The Memo.
Minda has been a guest of the podcast before on ep 60 and I asked her to give us something really dope for this new content approach I started last week with Donald C. Kelly. So youâre about to hear Minda speak her truth and pour some mission fuel all over yaâll. So take it all in.
Itâs 10 minutes of greatness! I know you can sit still for 10 minutes. Believe me, itâll be worth it.
Our very first guest ever on the Trailblazers.FM podcast, Mr. Donald C. Kelly is back and here for yet another first on the podcast. Today, we are trying something brand new. I've asked Donald to do our very first masterclass style episode, where he's dropping some mission fuel directly with you. For those of you that aren't familiar, Donald C. Kelly is the host of The Sales Evangelist podcast, which has over 800 published podcast episodes and has featured some amazing folks in sales and business. Donald is also a sales trainer, coach, and speaker. And beyond the podcast and business, Donald is a fellow Jamaican and an amazing husband to his wife Cristina. And so thinking about the need we all have to sell ourselves, whether you're in sales, the corporate world or you're a business owner, you've got to know how to effectively sell yourself. So Donald is going to share some tips with you on how you do just that. Hope you enjoy today's episode with our returning guest and featured trailblazer, Mr. Donald C. Kelly.
This past week, Kristin and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary, and I've decided to share 3 lessons that have helped us to not only survive, but thrive at the completion of our first complete decade of marriage.
And if youâre single, I hope these nuggets of wisdom give you insight into things you might want to begin working on in your current or next relationship.
DO NOT create a product or service or a promotion or offer, or a book or podcast, or even a resume or cover letter, until you understand who you are speaking to.  Knowing your audience is essential.  And here's why: You are likely not creating your product or service for yourself.Â
Today is Fatherâs Day and I want to wish my dad and all dads a Happy Fathers Day. To celebrate I thought Iâd share a few tips that have helped me pursue my quest to becoming a great father.Â
So hereâs whatâs up, itâs summer and like Outback Steakhouse, weâve got no rules and itâs just right. So today, I thought to expand on the concept I laid down last week with Think Big, Aim High, Act Bold.  But instead of me going for a round 2, I thought to share a couple clips from some other amazing past guests that shared some of the things that I wished I knew when I was younger.  Shout out to Dre Baldwin, who actually inspired this episodeâs title when he said thisÂ
Stephen A. Hart is the Founder of Isles Media LLC. His passion lives in guiding busy professionals and entrepreneurs through a clear process to create, market and grow their personal brand, quickly and effectively. Stephen is also the host of Trailblazers.FMâ˘, the #1 podcast highlighting todayâs successful black professionals.
Stephen was recognized and selected to the 2016 class of the Black Enterprise 100 Modern Men of Distinction, and has also been seen on the home page of Apple Podcast, BETs Centric TV, and featured on several other podcasts.
Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Stephen moved to the U.S. at the age of 16 to attend college. He graduated from the University of South Florida with a B.A. in Business Management and is happily married to his wife Kristin for 10 years and considers himself the best dad ever to their 8 year old daughter and 3 year old son. Stephen's vision and big hairy audacious goal is to guide 1,000,000 professionals through developing their amazing personal brand and online digital footprint.
Today's featured guest is another amazing DMV blazer, born and raised. I was blessed to have Kanika Tolver on the show.  Kanika Tolver is a former government employee turned rebel entrepreneur and Certified Professional Coach.  We had a great conversation and I'm excited to hear your thoughts on it, so hit me up as you're listening. You can tweet us up @tbpod and let me know what you're enjoying most in this conversation.  That said, let's get set to receive some mission fuel from today's featured guest Kanika Tolver.  Enjoy!
Kenneth L. Johnson is a distinguished Diversity Recruiter and Executive Search professional with 20 years of experience delivering talent-acquisition solutions. In 2017. Kenneth was named to the prestigious Forbes Coaches Council. In 2016, Mr. Johnson was recognized by Black Enterprise Magazine as a BE Modern Man (only 100 people received this honor globally).
His dedication to innovative talent-acquisition strategies and quality candidates makes him a highly sought-after strategic diversity business partner and consultant. Kenneth currently serves as the Staffing Consultant Specialist for The Urban League of Philadelphia and is a Forbes Contributor. He has served on several panels and has been featured in Black Enterprise, INC., Solve Magazine, NY Daily News, Monster.com, Fast Company Magazine, Philly.com and The Philadelphia Business Journal.
Kenneth is the host and executive producer of The Career Seekers Show on WPPM 106.5 in Philadelphia, PA.
Nathan Cook wants to help you see, believe and reach your human potential by transforming how you think. Using powerful, electrifying, and passionate speech and methodology, Nathanâs approach will instantly affect how you see yourself and the world around you. As president of Inspiring Inspirations and TheSuccessBoard.com , Nathan's mission is to empower people to unleash the power within them.
As a premier Keynote Speaker, Nathan has engaged audiences at churches, drug recovery meetings, networking marketing companies, and blue collar to white collar events. Audience members love his message because living a life of purpose, meaning, and success is something we all desire. Nathan believes in the idea that what we don't know that we don't know can stifle our growth. Using this concept as a backdrop, he equips his listeners with the knowledge, insight and belief that you can live up to your potential. His ability to skillfully interweave his intriguing life story into the fabric of our daily lives keeps Nathanâs clients coming back for more. You will leave his events with the confidence to live your life as the original you, not a copy of anyone else. His message is simply contagious.
Karen Millsap, also known as, The Grief Consultant, began her career in human resources and talent acquisition where she lead countless training, new process, and change initiatives. At a young age, she suddenly became a widow when her husband tragically died which completely changed the trajectory of her life. After experiencing a domino effect of other losses, she became acutely aware of the overall lack of support in our society for grieving people. We are all connected through our struggles, from the death of loved ones, to life-altering illnesses, divorce, even job loss. This realization ignited Karen's desire to turn her pain into purpose and pay it forward to help others.
Karen's work has been featured in SHRM Magazine, on Good Morning Washington, MSNBC, and many others! She's also a regular contributor to Arianna Huffington's THRIVE Global community. Karen is a TEDx keynote speaker who inspires audiences to embrace compassion and empathy to help alleviate otherâs suffering by becoming advocates for their own adversaries.
As the CEO (Chief Empathy Officer) of Egency, Karenâs training firm helps organizations create a human-centric culture with compassion and empathy. She's also the founder of Well Now Global Retreats.
Karen received her BA in Communication from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She is also a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist through the Grief Recovery Institute in Los Angeles, California.
Connect with Karen: * www.KarenMillsap.com * Instagram: @kmiix * Instagram: @thegriefconsultant * LinkedIn: Karen Millsap * Twitter: @GriefConsultant
Resources Mentioned: * Use your tragedy to change the world | Karen Millsap | TEDxOrlando * Mindset: The New Psychology of Success * Life's Golden Ticket: A Story About Second Chances * The Power of Now: A Guide To Spiritual Enlightenment
If you trust the process, you can accomplish anything. Thatâs the takeaway from todayâs episode and our featured guest Henry Keculah.  Henry  is the founder and CEO of 4.0 Growth Productivity Accountability (4.0 GPA).  Henry is a first-generation American, who's parents immigrated to the U.S from Liberia.  Henry mom was unfamiliar with the college readiness process which prevented Henry from taking advantage of opportunities that could have provided him with full rides.  Thankfully, Henry was able to turn things around after failing six classes. He ended up graduating from high school with a 2.5 GPA and gaining admissions to top public University of Texas in the state of Texas which isnât usual. As youâll hear in just a moment, he  was winning scholarships in high school with a 2.3 GPA.  In our conversation, Henry reflects on the problem he saw other students facing and how he launched a company of his own with $500 and very little business knowledge and how things are paying off today.Â
Business growth strategist Quiana Murray has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs learn how to acquire sponsorship for their businesses, events, products and services. Having left her comfy corporate job to launch her first business (only to watch it all fall flat), she knows the importance of being able to create a business that you not only love, but one that allows you to thrive!
Now Quiana uses her experiences and expertise to help entrepreneurs be smart, make more money, increase their influence, and do work they enjoy by offering smart strategies to help them partner with large corporations that will help fund their dreams!
Allow me to introduce Major Kenneth Reyes. Ken is our very first Latino man and active duty military featured guest on Trailblazers.FM.
Ken has served our country for more than 20 years. Heâs deployed to support the NATO led Stabilization Force in Bosnia and has also volunteered to fight in Afghanistan as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division.
Ken has taught as an Assistant Professor of Military Science for the United States Army Cadet Command at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Stetson University, Bethune-Cookman University (HBCU), and Daytona State College.
Today, Ken is currently serving as the Director of Army Human Resources for the 1st Special Warfare Training Center (Airborne) at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Fort Bragg, NC.
Among his many awards and decorations, his accolades include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.
A few of the questions I asked Kenneth: * What was it like for you growing up and traveling around the country and the world, as a military dependent? * What were some of the most challenging parts of navigating and making it through these lengthy deployments? * What do you wish more military men knew about depression and managing their mental health? * What fuels your passion to mentor minorities? * How do you mentor and guide young men to finding their purpose? * What do you teach young men about masculinity? * How do you thrive as a husband and father, while still managing your leadership role while your spouse is away on military assignment for years? * What are some of the things you try to do and also encourage your wife and others to do to increase their self worth? * How has the military helped or hampered your own marriage life? * We heard Maxineâs take on relationship resilience and I wanted to get some tips from you on how we as husbands can help our wives and our relationships not only to survive but to thrive?
There is a ton of opportunity that can come out of our prison cells; but only if we help create a culture of second chances.
Marcus Bullock is an entrepreneur, justice reform advocate, and public speaker. Following his 2004 release from prison, he launched a painting business and is now CEO of construction firm Perspectives Premier Contractors, which employs other returning citizens.
Bullock is also founder and CEO of mobile app Flikshop, a free app that enables incarcerated people the ability to receive postcards in the mail from friends and support organizations. Flikshop ships postcards to over 2,200 correctional facilities around the country, connecting thousands of families to their incarcerated loved ones. Flikshop has become a leader in their industry, and led Bullock to co-found Washington, DC non-profit Flikshop School of Business, a program that teaches persons returning to their community from prison life skills, entrepreneurship, and mobile application development.
He is a member of the Justice Policy Instituteâs board of directors, has been appointed by Washington, DCâs mayor as a Commissioner for Reentry and Returning Citizens Affairs, and Aspen Institute Scholar. Notable awards that Bullock has won are the 2015 Innovator of the Year (The Daily Record) and 2016 Booz Allen Hamilton Aspen Ideas award (The Aspen Institute).
Married with two children, Bullock has given a TEDx Talk and received coverage from CNN, TechCrunch, Black Enterprise, NPR, and the Washington Business Journal.
Whether on the stage, in the classroom, in the community, or as a father, Marcus Johnson leaves a mark wherever he lands. Musician, Entrepreneur, Professor, Author, Motivational Speaker, he is the consummate dreamer-doer. He believes that investing in the community and in oneâs self is the best way to solve some of lifeâs most pressing questions: Why are we here? What is our purpose? In answering these questions for himself, Marcus has successfully navigated the realms of music, business, education, and entrepreneurship.
Marcus spent his undergraduate years at Howard University and went on to earn his JD/MBA degree from Georgetown University. As a graduate student, he partnered with Black Entertainment Television (BET) founder and entrepreneur Robert L. Johnson to start Marimelj Entertainment Group. This entity later became Three Keys Music, an independent record label that produced over 25 albums by several internationally-known artists. As a musician and independent artist, Marcus has released 18 studio albums (seven of which have appeared on Billboardâs Top 10 Contemporary Jazz chart), garnered an NAACP Image Award nomination for Jazz Album of the Year, and has toured the world, performing at various music festivals and venues both domestic and abroad, including shows in Paris, Ghana, St. Lucia, and Bermuda.
An entrepreneur, Marcus is CEO and Founder of FLO (For the Love of) Brands, which houses his most recent venture, FLO Wine, LLC, and has enabled him to combine his passion for music with his love of good wine. USA Today recently included FLO Wine on its list of Top 10 Celebrity Wines. As a result of his business pursuits, Marcus was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2004 and currently serves as the Entrepreneur in Residence with the Greater Washington Urban League. He currently teaches entrepreneurship at Howard University. He has also had the opportunity to teach on business-related topics at Georgetown University's Center for Professional Development, Bowie State University, and Elmira College.
In this conversation, Marcus talks about Flo Wine, and what's driving him today. We discuss his music and the biggest downsides to being a musician. We discuss the impact of the team he has around him, and how he goes about attracting the right people to help his organization grow.
Maxine Reyes is a super charged woman that wears multiple hats. When sheâs not speaking at schools and mentoring teens, she is leading womenâs groups teaching self care and resilience, and inspiring with her platform âWomen leading their lives with courage and graceâ. She can also be found hosting couples retreats with her husband of 20 years, or volunteering at her daughterâs school. Did we mention that she recently retired in December 2017, after nearly 22 years of honorable service in the Air Force and Army respectively?
In a male dominated organization, as a young Captain, Maxine has lead a team of nearly 700, majority of which were men. She was also the commander of Orlando Army Recruiting from 2014-2016. Her leadership and work in the community earned her a Proclamation from the city, naming 14 July 2016 Captain Maxine Reyes Day in the City of Orlando.
If that doesnât say enough, this woman is also a seasoned singer. She has graced stages with dignitaries at home and abroad to include a U.S. President, entertaining troops in the Middle East and NBA opening ceremonies including twice for the Orlando Magic at the Amway Center, the Lions soccer team at the Citrus Bowl, and the cityâs Veterans Day Parade.
In this conversation, Maxine talks about military life, leadership and life skills, marriage and motherhood and shares some advice for the women, mothers and wives wanting to live their best lives now. You don't want to miss Maxine's ending to this episode, it was a first of its kind on the podcast.
Connect with Maxine: * www.MaxineReyes.com * Instagram: @SincerelyMaxine * Facebook: /SincerelyMaxine * Twitter: @maxinereyeslove
Resources Mentioned: * Happily Joint: The Secret to Relationship Resiliency by Maxine and Ken Reyes * True Woman 101: Divine Design â An Eight-Week Study on Biblical Womanhood by Mary A. Kassian and Nancy Leigh DeMoss * Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less
Yendi Phillipps is doing it all! She blazed her trail by winning two national pageant titles for the island of Jamaica, but her accolades didn't stop there. Since then she's become an ambassador, mother, social media influencer, model and is also a creative entrepreneur who has found a way to live a life of purpose, while still monetizing her creative passions.
In this conversation, Yendi talks about how the experiences of being a beauty pageant contestant impacted her as a business woman, creative and mother today. She shares what's worked to cultivate her social media influence and grow her personal brand. Despite having nearly a million social media followers, she opens up about how she handles the negative sides of cyber bullying and what helps her to find inner happiness and stay present when there's so much happening around her.
Connect with Yendi: * Instagram: @Yendizzle * Facebook: /YendiPhillips * Twitter: @iamyendi
Resources Mentioned: * Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent * The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho * Warrior of the Light: A Manual by Paulo Coelho
What holds most people back from sharing their story?
Cheryl Wood is an international motivational speaker, author, and master speaker development coach for women. She is committed to empowering women globally to courageously share their unique voice, story, and perspective. She equips new, emerging, and aspiring women speakers with strategies to MASTER and MONETIZE their message. Cherylâs compelling story of transitioning from a legal secretary and mother of three who was frantically challenged with creating work/life balance to building her own speaking empire generating over $1million inspires women to take bigger risks and play all out in life and business.
Cheryl has been featured on ABC, Radio One, Forbes Magazine, Huffington Post, ESSENCE, Good Morning Washington, and other media outlets. She has delivered keynote presentations for a host of organizations including: Federal Bureau of Investigations, United States Department of Defense, United States Department of Agriculture, The United Nations, Federally Employed Women, Virginia Women in Public Finance, and Verizon Wireless.
In today's conversation, Cheryl and I discuss what holds people back from sharing their story. Cheryl shares what aspiring speakers need to know to get started and shares the four types of speaking engagements.
Connect with Cheryl: * CherylEmpowers.com * Instagram: @cherylempowers * Twitter: @cherylempowers * Facebook: CherylEmpowers * LinkedIn: /in/cherylempowers
Resources Mentioned: * The Millionaire Messenger: Make a Difference and a Fortune Sharing Your Advice * How Successful People Grow: 15 Ways to Get Ahead in Life by John Maxwell * Success Tips for Speakers: 50 Tips to to Jump-Start Your Speaking Career by Cheryl Wood
"When building your network or social following, focus on quality not quantity" - Cameka Smith
Speaker, trainer and award-winning entrepreneur - these are just a few words that describe Cameka Smith, Founder of The BOSS Network, a community of professional and entrepreneurial women who support each other through conversation, online engagement and event-based networking. Working towards one simple goal, BOSSÂŽ is âBringing Out Successful Sistersâ to promote and encourage the small business spirit and professional development of women.
Under Camekaâs leadership, The BOSS Network has become one of the fastest-growing women business communities, garnering several accolades such as a Top 50 Website for Entrepreneurs (Inc. Magazine), 10 Best Career Sites for Women (Forbes.com) and one of 9 Twitter Accounts to Enhance Your College Experience (BlackEnterprise.com). In recognition of her achievements, Cameka was listed in Jet Magazine as a 40 under 40 Entrepreneur, named one of the Top 40 Chicago Game Changers by Ariel Investments, The Network Journal listed her one of their 2016, 40 under 40 Business Leaders, and she was presented with a Rising Brand Star award by the Adweek in 2017.
In today's conversation, Cameka and I discuss the power of networking and building relationships. She shares why she launched her business, and how she developed a business strategy to monetize her brand and grow her business.
Connect with Cameka: * TheBossNetwork.org * Instagram: @iamcameka @thebossnetwork * Twitter: @iamcameka @thebossnetwork * Facebook: /iamcameka /thebossnetwork
Resources Mentioned: * Dr. Cozette White * In the Morning: Lyrics of Love and Laughter * Crucial Conversations by Stephen Covey * The Tipping Point by Malco * Build Your Biz Relationships: "7 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network"
A few of the questions I asked Cameka: * Who are some of the women in your life that you're grateful to have around you and those who have really inspired you? * What would people who you know today find surprising about you as a teenager growing up in Chicago? * What did you have to give up to glow up? Did you have to shift your mindset, let go of people? * What are some of the lessons you've learned about building relationships? * How important is networking and social media to building and nurturing these relationships and an individual's personal brand?
Key Points from Cameka: * I am grateful for my mom and those who came before us. Because of them we are who we are. * Our dreams and visions are tied to other peopleâs dreams and visions * Cameka Smith used the power of relationships and networking to build The BOSS Network, a community of professional and entrepreneurial women who support each other. * Find those who are looking for the same thing youâre looking for and build the solution * Cameka Smith talks about building the business strategy to monetize the brand and grow her business * Your business vision and desire to help people cannot be sustained without a forward-looking strategy * If youâre gonna be in business, you gotta know your âwhy?â or youâll be very easily deterred and distracted by everything else that is going on around you. * The âwhy?â of The BOSS Network is to give women of color a platform to showcase their talents and their gifts and give them resources and opportunities to help them expose their brands. * You have to build relationships and not just your rolodex * BOSS stands for "Bringing Out Successful Sisters," and its mission is to promote and encourage the small business spirit in women * When building your network or social following, focus on quality not quantity * Hereâs great networking advice from BOSS Networkâs founder, Cameka Smith: Do your research before you get into the room, so you can drive the conversation and have something of substance to talk about. * We must be sure we are operating with good character in our professional relationships to build authentic connections * Social media is the great connector. It allows you to connect with an audience that you would have never otherwise met * Connect the dots on all your media platforms * Leadership does not always mean being out front, but it means serving in a capacity where your work impacts more than just yourself * I operate from a servant leadership standpoint: looking for ways to serve my clients, my tribe, and give women in my network access and resources * Great leaders are people who have crafted, molded and created their own table to have that conversation, then taking that information back to their communities * Collaboration is so key: you can reach new audiences by collaborating with people in your industry or even other industries
One Action To Blaze Your Trail: Go out and serve other people. Serve someone who can't give you anything in return.
Thanks for Listening! Please help us expand the reach of this podcast. Follow and share the podcast with your friends on: Twitter:@TBPod Instagram:@TBPod Facebook:/TBPod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more trailblazers by leaving us a 5 star review! Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Every day is black history. Every day, we are writing black history.
As I think about how podcasting has allowed me to have an impact on black history in the making, I wanted to share some of my vibranium with you (Black Panther reference here - if you haven't watched it yet, you better get to a theatre near you right now).
I'm going to share with you, my top 7 tips that will absolutely help you to blaze your trail and write your own black history.
We celebrate athletes, civil rights leaders and others during Black History Month, but there is often very little conversation about black legacy in business.
Our guest today is Alfred A. Edmond Jr., Senior Vice President and Executive Editor-at-Large of BLACK ENTERPRISE, responsible for providing brand, marketing and content leadership as a member of the multimedia companyâs senior management team.
In today's conversation, Alfred and I discuss a few of the black business legends who paved the path for today's generation. Alfred shares their stories, his connection to them and several black business books we should be reading to learn more about these black business icons.
"If you would stop making it all about money, all the money you want will come."
Known as America's Money Maven, Patrice Washington is a nationally recognized best-selling author, transformational speaker, and a leading authority on personal finance, entrepreneurship and success for women and youth.
Patriceâs wisdom on money matters has been tapped as a recurring voice by national brands such as NBC, FOX News, Black Enterprise, The Huffington Post, Essence Magazine and more. Sheâs most known as the personal finance voice of the top-rated and nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Radio Show  where she hosts her own weekly segment, Real Money Answers with Patrice Washington.Â
Full Show Notes: tbpod.com/patricewashington
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"By 2053... black median families will own zero wealth if current trends continue."
Dr. George C. Fraser is the Chairman and CEO of FraserNet, Inc., a company he founded some 30 years ago, to lead a global networking movement for people of African descent.
He spent 20 years in leadership positions with Procter & Gamble, United Way and Ford Motor Company before starting his own business in 1987.
Dr. Fraser is the author of 6 best-selling books. He has been named as one of the best speakers in America, and President Barack Obama recently awarded Dr. Fraser âThe Presidentâs Lifetime Achievement Awardâ.
Today Dr Fraser and I discussed his love/hate relationship with black history month, and whatâs required for us as a community to begin to close the wealth gap between African Americans and other groups.
Full Show Notes: tbpod.com/georgefraser
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Why is legacy wealth important to the black community?
Dr. Pamela Jolly is the Founder and CEO of Torch Enterprises. She's helped 1000s of entrepreneurs, national non-profits, trade organizations, the Federal Government, foundations and financial institutions.
She's a smart and committed woman who's developing data-driven strategies that will help lead us to wealth as a legacy in the African American Community.
In today's conversation, we talked about her meaning of the term legacy wealth and why it is important to the black community. We discuss what needs to happen to shift us from looking at this gratification of the now to a perspective further down the road.  Lastly, she walks us through the steps involved to chart our path toward legacy wealth and ownership.
An Estate Plan determines how your assets will be dealt with when you die. Do you have one?
Art Steele is an estate planning and intellectual property attorney who has been practicing law for nearly 10 years. She left corporate America to launch her own law firm in 2014 and recently founded ArtSteele.co - an online resource that provides simple legal solutions.âŻ
In this conversation, Art shares why estate planning is for everyone, especially people of color. And you will be moved by Art's explanation on why it's the single most significant factor determining whether our next generation will have a leg up!Â
"Start with the mind. We need to change how we think and feel about money!"
Dr. Cozette M. White is an acclaimed bestselling author, nationally recognized finance and tax strategist, international speaker and philanthropist.
In this conversation, Dr. White shares an exercise we can begin over the next 14-21 days to help us undergo a permanent financial mind shift.
Of the 525 US Stock Mutual Funds that existed 30 years ago, only 223 are still operating today & only six are run by the same manager. One of those six remaining managers is our guest today, Mr. John Rogers Jr.
John W. Rogers, Jr. is Founder, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer of Ariel Investments, which is the largest minority lead mutual fund in the country. Headquartered in Chicago, the firm offers six no-load mutual funds for individual investors and defined contribution plans as well as separately managed accounts for institutions and high net worth individuals. Together they manage some $12 billion in assets.
On this episode we discussed: How John's parents impacted and influenced his goals growing up - How much of John's success in business he credited to his time playing basketball - What's still driving John in the work he's doing with Ariel some 34 years after he started the company - How he balances success and humility - Why John loves leading people - One of his biggest failures - The most important habits or traits that young minority leaders need to develop to become great leaders - the most common financial mistakes we've been making as investors - Stocks that John likes heading into 2018 - How much time John spends each day or week reading and learning and thinking - Books John has read and recommends we read - The One action John thinks we should take right now that will help us on our own journey to blaze our trail
Resources mentioned: * Video of John Rogers beating Michael Jordan * Consuelo Mack WealthTrack Interview * Succeeding Against the Odds by John H. Johnson * A Random Walk Down Wall Street by Burton G. Malkiel * The Making of an American Capitalist by Roger Lowenstein * Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant
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Today, we celebrate an amazing milestone on the Trailblazers.FM podcast, it's our 100th episode! It's been 100 consecutive Monday mornings, going back to February 1, 2016 that I've been publishing a brand new episode at 5 a.m. In today's conversation, we reflected on these 100 amazing reasons to be inspired, motivated, encouraged, and we are reminded of the mission fuel that's now in the library of past conversations, ready to assist others seeking to rise above and go way beyond in blazing their trails. In this celebration episode, we talk with my wife Kristin Hart who shared her perspective on this journey, having been involved from long before this podcast was created and seeing what it's accomplished to this point. We also talked with our most supportive member of the Blazer Nation, our trailblazer Annette Richards, and this episode would not have been complete without our now #1 Most Downloaded Episode guest ever, Mr. Shawn Dove of the Campaign for Black Male Achievement who is also our sponsoring partner. Hands down, one of the best episodes we've created for this podcast to date. There are so many nuggets of wisdom packed inside this hour long celebration. To our listeners, our Blazer Nation, none of this happens without you. If you decided not to download these episodes, we would not be here celebrate 100 episodes, so THANK YOU. And for all our past featured guests of Trailblazers.FM, I extend my truest HART-felt thank you! Your stories are what have helped to shape the fabric of this amazing platform and inspire men and women in more than 108 countries around the world.
Resources mentioned: * Kristin Hart on LinkedIn * Life In Revision Blog * Episode 16: Shawn Dove * Episode 66: Concita Thomas * Episode 91: Michael Lindsey on Mental Health * Breaking The Glass podcast * Episode 99: Tiffany F. Southerland
Recommended Reading: * Matthew 9:36 * Jeremiah 29:11
Mission fuel inside today's conversation:
Do not bet on later. When we bet on later, everyone loses @ConcitaThomas
Jeremiah 29 11 -- For I know the plans I have for you,â declares the Lord, âplans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Begin right now, to use the obstacles you've already overcome to show how talented you are, how brave you are, how determined you are, how patient you are, how kind you are, and how strong you are. The curve balls [thrown at you] were there to actually work in your favor. Just don't let the circumstances you've already endured, don't let those derail your dreams and progress. You are great, and today you need to remind yourself of that. Remind yourself that you are worth the fight. Keep pushing, keep believing, and keep showing yourself just how great you are.
Blazer Nation, if there's one rule that we will live by after this first 100 lessons we've got is that Anyone can blaze! Success is defined in many ways. Don't let your background, where you live, how much you earn, or how much you've failed define you. The only difference between you and many of the folks featured on this podcast, is that when life punched them in the gut and then fell on their knees or flat on their back, they got back up. Les Brown says if you fall down, try to land on your back because if you can look up you can get up.
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode. If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to Leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast
! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely
helpful
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How do you walk boldly in your faith to be able to experience your true purpose and success in life?Â
Our guest today is Tiffany F. Southerland, known across social media as @TiffSouth. In today's conversation, Tiffany and I talk about the importance of us knowing our story, and how that often leads to the discovery of our strengths.  Â
Named to Fast Company's League of Extraordinary Women, Tiffany Dufu is today the Chief Leadership Officer to Levo, which is the fastest growing millennial professional network. Â She's been featured in the New York Times, Essence, O, The Oprah Magazine and she's a sought after speaker on women's leadership. Â A good friend said Stephen, you've absolutely got to read Tiffany's book. And that's what I did. Tiffany Dufu has authored a book titled Drop The Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less. Â Hands down, one of the best books I've read this year. It's a book to encourage women to develop the skill to let go, so they can thrive. If you're a married woman with kids, this is a must read. But if you're a husband or a man working alongside a woman, especially with kids and a family and multiple obligations, this book will help you see some things from another perspective.
Explore our panel discussion with the Campaign for Black Male Achievement's 2017 Building Beloved Communities Leadership Fellows. Our featured guests on the panel include Ashanti Branch, Ronda Alexander and Brandyn Bailey.
Prince Daniels Jr. is an author, motivational speaker, inspirational fitness trainer and an expert in the areas of fitness, meditation and holistic health.
We talk about several things, including the biggest lessons he learned playing football in the N.F.L. and what stuck with him most that helped to mold him into the man heâs become today. Â We discussed his pivot from football to where he is today with mindfulness and meditation; and he shares some all around great gems to help us get our minds right.
Dr. Diana Burley: Diana is an Executive Director and Chair of the Institute for Information Infrastructure Protection and also a full Professor of Human and Organizational Learning at the George Washington University. She is a globally recognized cybersecurity expert and has written nearly 80 publications on cybersecurity, information sharing and IT-enabled change. In todayâs episode, Diana and I talk about what cybersecurity really is and we talked about who is susceptible to cyber crime and how we can begin to attract and nurture the right kind of people to help us on our cybersecurity teams. Iâm really excited for you guys to hear what she has to share, but please do me a favor and help us expand this movement by hitting the share button right now and sending this episode to a few friends and colleagues. Hope you enjoy todayâs episode, and I look forward to hearing your comments. Enjoy!
Sheri Riley is a wife, mother, daughter, and entrepreneur. She's a trendsetter in the entertainment industry, and has spent 20 years creating innovative marketing strategies for some of the worldâs biggest celebrities and corporations. Her list of clients includes Usher, TLC, Toni Braxton, Converse, NBA, TNT, and many more.
In addition, she's an Empowerment Speaker, Life Strategist, and Author, and Sheri helps all around busy individuals, like us, to make choices that lead to less stress, better clarity, and a more fulfilling life. She speaks around the world, sharing her message of "Peace is the New Success".
Connect with Sheri: * Website: sheririley.com * Twitter: @sheririley * Instagram: @sheririley
Financial is always a challenge. Being an entrepreneur for 20 years, it ebbs and flows. Whenever you're running a business, it is going to ebb and flow financially, so you've got to do the right things and put the right systems in place for your business to sustain itself through those seasons.
If you really want to give your life to Christ, start a business, become an entrepreneur!
Mission fuel inside today's conversation: * What unexpected blessing in your life are you most grateful for? * What was the big goal for you growing up? * What's driving you in the work you're doing today? * How did you find your calling as an entrepreneur? * What did you have to give up to go up? * What's been the most challenging experience you've had growing your business? * What prompted you to write this book? * What was one of the biggest lessons you learned in the process of writing this book? * What is Exponential Living? * What does peace mean to you? Why is peace so important? * How do you cultivate peace, clarity and courage?
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode. If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast
(Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful
to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Brandon Frame is a renaissance man with a social conscience and a global perspective. Brandon founded The Black Man Can, a non-profit dedicated to celebrating, education and inspiring boys and men of color. "Once you make an observation, you have an obligation.â MK Asante Boys and men of color need to see positive images of themselves and have their stories told. Define yourself, redefine the world: The Guided Journal for Boys and Men of Color with empowering words, motivating experiences and insightful quotes. Being a man means being responsible, operating your ego from a place of love not a place of pride and selfish decisions. Being a black man or black boy is not monolithic â we walk and talk in different and varied spaces and narratives. Black men have a responsibility to acknowledge their privileges as men and use it to elevate the voices of Black women and girls. Men have a tendency to suffer in silence but there is an opportunity to create community to heal, foster restoration and build accountability. Can you do a single or double windsor knot? The 1,000 Ties initiative shows Black men and boys how. Brandon's fav books: "Start with Why" by Simon Sinek, a great read recommended by Brandon Frame "Relentless by Tim Grover, a great read recommended by Brandon Frame The Rise of the Post-Hip-Hop Generation, MK Asante, a great read recommended by Brandon Frame Forty Million Dollar Slaves by William C. Rhoden, a great read recommended by Brandon Frame
Chanel launched Hampton Consulting with a vision of specifically catering to mission-driven clientele. Hampton Consultingâs client roster ranges from the Campaign for Black Male Achievement and President Obamaâs My Brotherâs Keeper Alliance to the Michigan Department of Education, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, the University of Michiganâs Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, The Skillman Foundation, the White Houseâs Initiative on Educational Excellence for African-Americans and beyond.
If you can't talk about something, it is out of control.
Dr. Michael A. Lindsey is the Director of the McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research and McSilver Professor of Poverty Studies at NYU Silver School of Social Work in September 2016. Dr. Lindsey was previously an Associate Professor at NYU Silver.
Prior to joining NYU Silver in 2014, Dr. Lindsey was an Associate Professor at the University of Maryland School of Social Work and concurrently a Faculty Affiliate at the University of Maryland Department of Psychiatryâs Center for School Mental Health.
Dr. Lindsey is a child and adolescent mental health services researcher, and is particularly interested in the prohibitive factors that lead to unmet mental health need among vulnerable youth with serious psychiatric illnesses, including depression.
Nicole Walters explains what inspired her to quit her six figure job in front of 10,000 people on Periscope, then go on to earn a million dollars in revenue within 18 months. She explains her motivation and drive behind the work she's doing today. Best part is she shares some nuggets of wisdom on the 3 steps we must engage to move towards that desire of full-time entrepreneurship.
Questions I asked Nicole: * What unexpected blessing in your life are you most grateful for? * Why were you inspired to quit your job on Periscope in front of 10,000 people? * How did you make that first million? * What's something that people who don't have money, wrongly assume about wealth? * What's driving you today to do the work you're doing? * What are the critical steps to move forward toward a goal of full-time entrepreneurship? * What are the traits that make an entrepreneur a good sales person? * What are some non-negotiable daily habits? * What's your best advice to parents to raising awesome kids? * Share one action our future entrepreneurs should commit to this week, to help them blaze their trail?
I am only limited by what I can dream and pray for
The bible talks about how your provision resides in your purpose. When you are closely aligned with what you are suppose to do and when you are using the gifts God has given you to serve others then you see bounty. And I can honestly say that's what happened. I took the smarts that I had and I started applying it to the place that I could serve the most, and I started seeing rewards for that. Both financially, emotionally and spiritually. It's really been a blessing.
I had multiple income streams ... my business was not based on a single source of income. One of the biggest mistakes people make when they are getting into consulting, is they exchange time for money.
Our featured guest today is Tynesia Boyea-Robinson. Ty is the President and CEO of Reliance Methods. In this episode, I learned how determined she was. We experienced the mother of all technical difficulties trying to get this call recorded and spent maybe an hour just determined not to let our frustrations with tech get the better of our conversation. We finally got the call to record and I think you'll enjoy getting to learn a little about Ty. BIO: Tynesia Boyea-Robinson exemplifies cross-sector leadership. In her book, Just Change: How To Collaborate For Lasting Impact, Tynesia shares her experience investing in cities and leaders across the country. The goal of Just Change is to help readers understand whatâs working, whatâs not working and why in order to improve their own communities. Tynesiaâs experience as an entrepreneur, Six Sigma blackbelt, and technologist uniquely positions her to catalyze a results-driven era of social change. In her previous role as Chief Impact Officer of Living Cities, Tynesia was responsible for ensuring $100M of investment produced outcomes that improved the lives of low income people across the country. In 2011, Boyea-Robinson founded Reliance Methods to help Fortune 500 clients like the Carlyle Group, Marriott, and others change the way the world does business. Tynesia has been religiously leading and writing about enterprises that âdo well and do goodâ for over a decade. As President and CEO of Reliance Methods, she continues to demonstrate how business and community goals can powerfully align towards mutual outcomes. Tynesia relies on her deep experience as a social change agent to advise clients. For example, she leveraged effective cross-sector partnerships to help establish the Social Innovation Fund and the Workforce Investment and Opportunity Act. Additionally, as founding Executive Director of Year Up National Capital Region (NCR) she raised $20M, was recognized by President Obama, and supported the organization to ensure thousands of low-income young adults are hired in careers with family sustaining wages. Earlier in her career, Tynesia was a leader within several business units at General Electric. From transforming the entire company to utilize technology for online sales to leading an international mortgage bank acquisition, her experience at GE groomed her to achieve outcomes regardless of industry. Tynesia has been a featured speaker for a broad array of audiences including South by Southwest and the White House Council for Community Solutions. She has published several articles, which have been featured in the Washington Post, Forbes and in Leap of Reason: Managing to Outcomes in an Era of Scarcity. Her work was also highlighted in the New York Times bestseller A Year Up as well as in the Harvard Business School case study Year Up: A Social Entrepreneur Builds High Performance. She serves on numerous boards and committees. Boyea-Robinson received her MBA from Harvard Business School and has a dual degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from Duke University. She and her college sweetheart, Keith, are committed to indoctrinating their children, Dylan and Sydney, with a love of Duke basketball and all things geeky and sci-fi.
Latham Thomas is founder of Mama Glow, a maternity lifestyle company. Latham is also one of Oprah's Super Soul 100 and an author, who just published her highly anticipated second book, "Own Your Glow: A Soulful Guide to Luminous Living And Crowning The Queen Withinâ which debuts September 26, 2017.
In today's episode, Latham shares her mama glow journey, talks about her inspiration for starting and managing a business while being a single parent and we discuss her new book and what women can expect from it.
Latham shares her meaning of self care and shares a few self-care practices that we can incorporate in our everyday lives.
Steve Vassor is a proud Dad, husband, mentor/coach, man of faith and action. He enjoys travel, and as a former DJ loves rap, his musical first love. He is a sought-after speaker and facilitator who earned a Bachelorâs Degree in Mental Health from Morgan State University, and a Masterâs in Social Service Administration from Case Western Reserve University.
As the Campaign for Black Male Achievementâs Director of Rumble Young Man, Rumble!, Steve is supporting the work of leaders, she-roes and heroes in the Black male achievement movement and field.
Throughout his career Steve served, supported, led, organized, trained, planned with and funded youth and community serving organizations and agencies. He served on committees, commissions and Boards focused on improving life chances for children, youth and families and has also launched three social enterprises.
We have heard guest after guest, talk about the importance of getting outside your comfort zone and taking immediate action. Â This August, I forced myself to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, so that I could put a check mark next to some big goals I had for 2017, including delivering my first public talk at Podcast Movement 2017.
In today's conversation, I share three practical steps that helped me [and can help you too if you apply them] to organize my thoughts, deliver a confident and fun talk, that impacted my audience and has been generating tons of positive engagement almost 3 weeks after.
Michael Alexander Blake is a young and rising politician. He currently serves as both a New York Assemblyman from the 79th district and a Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee.
In today's conversation, we discussed the biggest changes in political campaigning, why he's serving in the DNC today and he shares some mission fuel for what the democratic community and other young politicians should begin doing today.
Some of the questions I asked Michael: * When did you first discover that politics was what you were meant to do with your life? * How'd you go about sculpting yourself into someone that Barack Obama would later want as part of his administrion? * What are the biggest differences in political campaigning now from when you started your career? * Why were you inspired to serve in the Democratic National Committee at this stage in your career? * What are you hearing from the democratic community that is most challenging to put in place? * What's your best advice to young politicians looking to establish themselves?
Discover some of the top excuses that make people quit, and hear what we must begin to do to create a mindset to persist.
Today's featured guest is Dr. Clarence M. Lee Jr.
Dr. Lee is a nationally celebrated author, international speaker, and CEO of CMLEEJR Companies. LLC, a personal development brand that conducts seminars on high performance and mental conditioning for teams, organizations and students. Â Â Â
Why is it so important to empower and uplift others around you?
Today's featured guest is Terra Winston is the ringleader of inTerractions and Principal of inTerract Consulting.
Terra has dedicated her life to helping her clients unleash the potential of each employee. She is a leadership consultant and executive coach with 20 years of internal and external business consulting experience. Terra has a flexible style that has driven results in boardrooms and on plant floors, for Fortune 100 companies and small start-ups, alike.
In today's conversation, we discussed the common mistakes that derail good people from reaching their full trailblazer potential and Terra shares some wisdom on what we can begin doing to blaze our trail. SOME OF THE QUESTIONS I ASKED TERRA: * How do you cultivate gratitude in your life? * What drives you today in the work you're doing? * What's the most challenging experience you've had in your walk as a consultant/coach and what did you learn about yourself through that experience? * One of your favorite sayings is âGood people do great thingsâ. Terra, what exactly does that mean to you? * But why is it so important to empower and uplift others around you? * What are common mistakes that derail good people from reaching their full âTrailblazer potentialâ? * What are some keys to getting started for our aspiring trailblazers? * What does black girl magic mean to you?
CONNECT WITH TERRA: * Twitter: @TerraWinston * Instagram: @Terra.Winston * Website: www.interractions.com
THANKS FOR LISTENING! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Natasha Nurse is an Adjunct Professor at Nassau Community College, the owner and founder of Dressing Room 8 and also the Lifestyle Editor for Plus Model Magazine.  She's a lawyer, business owner, and public speaker, and today she introduced us to her coaching philosophy and discussed what success means and how to develop a mindset for it.  Â
What are some of the foundation pieces new entrepreneurs need to put in place to have a successful startup?
Ericka Dotson, Indique Hair co-founder and creative director, was inspired by clients to fill the void in the hair extension industry with a premium, knowledgeable and customer orientated business.
In this conversation, Ericka and I discuss how she got into the hair extension business. She shares how she went counter to the advice of her instructors and went straight into startup mode right out of cosmetology school. We talk about her morning rituals and her approach to attract, nurture and empower new talent. She shares how she gets her team on board with her vision and her crazy creative campaigns. Lastly, she gives some wisdom to all our new entrepreneurs on what we can do to help us succeed with our startups.
Some of the questions I asked Ericka: * 04:55 What got you into the hair extension business? * 29:00 What's one of the most challenging experiences you faced in business and what did you learn from that experience? * 32:40 What are some of your consistent morning rituals that set you up to win everyday? * 33:50 How are you able to attract, nurture and empower new talent within your company? * 35:20 As Creative Director, how do you get your team on board with your crazy vision and campaigns? * 37:20 What are some of the foundation pieces new entrepreneurs need to put in place to have a successful startup?
Ericka Dotson's Bio Ericka Dotson, Indique Hair co-founder and creative director, was inspired by clients to fill the void in the hair extension industry with a premium, knowledgeable and customer orientated business.
In the onset of her career, Dotson focused on a more traditional office profession. While working in a corporate environment in Austin, Texas, she rekindled her love of hairstyling and began to sharpen her skills in hair extensions. Dotson began specializing in this growing aspect of the hair industry and worked heavily with women experiencing hair loss diseases.
Her time as a stylist led her down many creative paths. Dotson has had a great deal of experience in creating hairpieces and designing different looks. Her innovative style has been sought after in numerous fashion shoots and runways.
Ultimately, it was the frustration Dotsonâs clients expressed when purchasing hair extensions that sparked the idea of creating a company. Her drive and passion for ensuring the highest quality hair for her clients morphed into Dotsonâs partnership with Krishan Jhalani and the founding of Indique Hair.
Dotson is the creative force of Indique Hair. She spearheads the innovative pieces in all the collections and branding methods. With Dotsonâs vision and experience, Indique is focused on providing exclusively premium virgin hair extensions. Ericka strives to ensure exhaustive and comprehensive quality assurance for Indique, while continuing to improve and find additional methods to maintain or increase the quality and service.
Dotson is an alum of Howard University. She currently resides in Austin, Texas, and has a daughter.
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Alfred Edmond Jr. is SVP & Executive Editor-at-Large of Black Enterprise. Alfred spoke about his 30+ years at Black Enterprise, he shares some lessons in leadership, the legacy of Black Enterprise and the genesis story behind how the BE Modern Man initiative got going. We talked about the inaugural Black Men XCEL Summit (#BMXCEL), coming this Labor Day weekend to West Palm Beach, Florida to Celebrate the Excellence and Leadership of Black Men. And he shares a special discount code that gets you $100 off registration, so listen out for that and get registered today! Some of the questions I asked Alfred: * 08:10 What's been your biggest challenge as a leader at Black Enterprise as it relates to the transition to digital? * 11:15 What advice would you give to young aspiring editors and journalists wanting to step into the space? * 16:15 Why Black Enterprise created the BE Modern Man initiative? * 26:15 What is the Black Men XCEL Summit and who is it for? * 42:00 What is the biggest thing you see missing in relationships?
Get registered TODAY for the Black Men XCEL Summit #BMXCEL: * Summit: Black Men XCEL Summit * Get $100 OFF registration, using discount code: BEFFMK * Aug 30 - Sep 3 2017 | PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Springs Gardens
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Discover the problem that lead Sarah Ribner and her life long friend and partner, creating their product. Â We discuss what went into them building their pitch and the research required to not only get featured but negotiate a winning outcome with one of the sharks. Sarah shares how they went from doing 500 units prior to the airing, and experienced an almost immediate back order of over 120,000 units. You've got to hear about the challenges they faced and what they did to help calm the customer service headaches that developed as a result. Â
View the full show notes for today's episode at tbpod.com
Thanks for Listening! IÂ appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Squeaky Moore is an independent content creator, producer, director, writer, and actress. As a mompreneur, she freelances as a development and pitching consultant and strategist. As a writer, director and producer, Squeakyâs mission is to enlighten, uplift, and inspire.
She recently authored a book for content creators after journeying to pitch her film and television projects 100 times. The book, #100Pitches: Mistakes, Iâve Made So You Donât Have To, is a film and television pitching guide geared towards independent content creators and about her pitching journey, the doâs and donâts of pitching television and film projects.
View the full show notes for today's episode at tbpod.com
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
How do you approach creating and negotiating a win-win situation in large media deals?
Mentor, Entrepreneur, and Television Host, Paul Carrick Brunson (@PaulCBrunson) is recognized as one of the most influential small business leaders in the world. The former Investment Banker founded PCBA in 2009, an award-winning matchmaking agency that was acquired in 2016. Appearing as the co-host on Oprah Winfrey Networkâs Lovetown, Oprah Winfrey notes, âPaul is much more than a matchmaker!â Debuting in 2017, Paul is hosting and executive producing a primetime docu-series on ABC. Paul also hosts Our World by Black Enterprise, a weekly syndicated network and cable TV show where he interviews today's top newsmakers and business leaders.
View the full show notes for today's episode.
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Jennefer Witter is the CEO/Founder of The Boreland Group Inc. (www.theborelandgroup.com), a New York City-based public relations firm that specializes in corporate and executive visibility. TheStreet.com recognized the agency as one of five black-owned businesses nationwide âmaking a buzz.â
Willie Jackson is an inclusion strategist who empowers thoughtful organizations and the leaders who run them. He is the founder and publisher of Abernathy, President and CEO of Equity Impact Group, and a frequent writer and speaker on the topics of workplace equity, global diversity, and multicultural millennial leadership.
Willie currently serves as Technical Lead of Seth Godinâs altMBA program, a 4-week online workshop for high-performing individuals who want to level up and lead. Previously, Willie served as the Director of Web Optimization at W3 EDGE, a Boston based interactive web development and marketing agency. In this role, he supported users of products such as W3 Total Cache, a popular web performance framework for WordPress.
QOTD: How did you come about learning the essential skills needed to become a successful entrepreneur yourself?
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Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us grow this movement. Leave us a 5 star review (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple Podcast community.
Discover more at http://www.TBPod.com Â
What makes women great leaders?
Dorinda Walker (Vice President of Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives within Multicultural Marketing for Prudentialâs U.S. Businesses) opens up about her difficult childhood and what fueled her passion to help and lead others. She shares wisdom on the skills and attributes that make women great leaders and gave advice to help women build their self confidence and self worth. This is an absolute must listen episode for all.
Some of the questions I asked Dorinda: * 06:45 You've shared that you had a difficult street life as a teenager. Tell us about that? * 08:20 What helped you to transition and navigate those difficult experiences and move forward? * 10:00 How were you introduced to Faith? * 13:05 What's driving you with Prudential today? * 13:40 Why do you love leading people? * 14:40 What do you wish more C suite leaders would see in women and a more diverse consumer base and employees? * 15:45 What are some of the skills/attributes that you believe make women great leaders today? * 17:20 Could you share one of the biggest challenges you've faced as a leader at Prudential? * 18:50 What helps you today to remain calm with chaos happening all around you? * 20:00 What advice would you give to women listening to help them build their self confidence and self worth they need to thrive? * 21:17 What are your thoughts on women who worry about achieving their corporate dreams, while still wanting enough time and energy to raise a family and enjoy a complete life? * 22:18 How do you empower and nurture your kids to dream big dreams and to take the necessary actions to pursue them?
Thanks for Listening!
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us grow this movement. Leave us a 5 star review (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple Podcast community.
Discover more at http://www.TBPod.com
Known as the Wealthy Yogi,Dr. Roshawnna Novellus is the co-founder of Bootstrap Capital and Host of Startup Funding. She is passionate about helping business owners get ready to attract funding. Dr. Novellus has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, WSJ, and Rolling Out. She has also completed the Pipeline Angels Fellowship, a Kauffman program in angel investing. Roshawnna serves on the Commission on Women for the City of Atlanta, and was honored as one of the Women Who Means Business by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.
Don't miss our conversation about the mindset around finances and budgeting. Learn how Dr. Novellus gets past the fear of starting new initiatives and business ventures. We also talk about her podcast and her new business conference and the mission behind these new platforms.
Dr Rosemarie Ingleton is often referred to as the dermatologist to the stars. She's the go-to authority on all-things dermatology in the media, as well as in New York City social circles and industries such as fashion, beauty, music, and the arts. She is featured regularly on television shows such as Good Morning America, Dr. Oz, The Today Show and The Doctors, and in magazines such as Glamour, Vogue, People Style Watch, InStyle, Elle, Essence, Town and Country and Real Simple.
In today's interview, we discussed her journey from her early years growing up in Jamaica, through her migration to the United States and how she lived out an impossible dream of becoming a dermatologist and business owner in Manhattan. A few of the questions I asked Dr. Ingleton * Let's talk about the challenges you had starting your business... as I understood it, you had no money, no formal business plan and no business training?
* What were the necessary foundation pieces for your success back then?
* I'd love to understand your day to day and what you're doing today that helps to set you apart and continues to fuel this success you're experiencing?
* Could you talk about some good processes or practices for us to follow while we navigate our 'rough' years?
* Why living a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your skin is so important to you?
Thanks for Listening! I appreciate you visiting our site today and for listening to this episode.
If you're listening through the Apple Podcast App, please help us by partnering with us to grow this movement. The first step to helping us reach more trailblazers is to leave us a 5 star review for The Trailblazers Podcast! (Please click the link from your cell phone, then click the REVIEWS tab). Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.
Lauren Bealore is the Corporate Relations and Events Manager for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, a national political lobbying organization that focuses on protecting conservation issues by holding elected officials accountable. Lauren is also an appointed and elected official, serving as a City Commissioner for the City of Southfieldâs Total Living Commission and Precinct Delegate for Precinct 19 of the City of Southfield.
In today's interview, we discussed the shifts that are happening that seem to be stifling the voice of black women in politics.  We also discussed the impact that race, gender and ethnicity might play in politics as we look out a decade from now.
Today I talked with Dr. Myiesha Taylor and her daughter Haley Taylor Schlitz. Dr. Taylor is a board certified emergency medicine physician. She's the founder of the Artemis Medical Society, an organization of over 3,700 women of color physicians. Haley is a 14 year old college student majoring in Chemistry, with a goal of obtaining a medical degree like her mom.Â
In today's interview, we discussed why awareness is so important for women of color in medicine, Dr. Taylor shared advice on informing and educating our children, and also discussed the secret to the investment they made in Haley that propelled her to now succeed in college at 14 years old.
The media, especially celebrities on reality shows, downplay the value of marriages. Society today would have you prioritize self before all else.  But I'm feeling a calling on my heart today to remind everyone listening, including myself, that nothing is more important in a marriage than the relationship between husband and wife.  For today's episode I wanted to highlight the impact and the importance that a healthy marriage plays in blazing new trails.
The 5 poison seeds planted in our families under persecution.
Indigo Ocean Dutton, a business consultant, community leader, founder and author, returns to Trailblazers.FM to discuss why she believes black families, especially entrepreneurs, are suffering from generational persecution of slavery and Jim Crow that are impeding our success today.  We discuss the 5 poison seeds planted in our families under persecution and she shares some crucial tips to free ourselves of these destructive hidden patterns.
Easy to stick to food and fitness strategies sprinkled with a healthy dose of encouragement and inspiration
Concita Thomas is a Food & Fitness Strategist on a mission to help busy women on the go gain freedom from being overweight and unfit while avoiding diet traps and fitness obsessions. She helps by sharing easy to stick to food and fitness strategies sprinkled with a healthy dose of encouragement and inspiration. She is a Jersey girl living in Dallas, Texas with her husband, 7 year old son and 2 year old daughter. When she isnât coaching, writing, or spending time with her family, you can find her reading and sipping on a great cup of coffee.
Tips to help navigate our busy lives and be a little more disciplined about fitness and eating habits.
Dr. Jason is a board-Âcertified family physician offering convenient concierge healthcare. Additionally, Dr. Jason is author of WellSpring: The Energy Secrets to Do the Good Life, an in-demand motivational health speaker, and frequent guest commentator on national television programs and in national print publications. He emphasizes personal attention, prevention, and smart lifestyle choices for optimal health, wellness, energy, and so much more. He's been on The Dr. Oz Show, and has been featured in Ebony Magazine, InTouch Magazine, has been awarded the title of one of Orlando's Top Doctors.
Christina Johnson (VH1 personality, celebrity interior designer, and life coach) has overcome a great deal of adversity including her battle with graves disease, domestic violence and struggling with self-esteem, Christina found passion and purpose to launch Life Coaching By Christina Johnson, a program to empower women to love themselves, forgive their past and to put themselves first.
Nick Chiles is one of the nationâs foremost chroniclers of African-American life, culture and celebrityâboth as a bestselling author and an award-winning journalist. He has co-authored several New York Times best sellers with icons like Bobby Brown, Rev. Al Sharpton and Kirk Franklin. As a journalist, Nick has won over a dozen major journalism awards, including a 1992 Pulitzer Prize as part of a New York Newsday team.
05:30 What are some of your hidden talents beyond writing?
09:29 If you could do it all over again, would you have taken a different academic path or are you satisfied with the route you followed?
11:08 Take us back with you for a moment to a time when you really failed at something you were working on and it was a complete mess. Tell us how you handle that experience and the lessons learned?
15:53 What are the biggest gaps between what authors should be doing and what they are actually doing?
19:43 Beyond the accolades and awards, how else has your career created value in your life?
23:51 You've got kids much older than my own and I'm curious to hear your thoughts and feedback on raising black children today?
31:01 Share a couple great reads that have truly inspired you?
35:19 Share one action our aspiring Trailblazers should take this week to blaze their trail?
Perdita Felicien is a two-time Olympian, 10-time National Champion and the only Canadian woman to win a World Championship gold medal in track and field. During her career as a 100-metre hurdler she earned numerous honours, including Canadaâs Athlete of the Year, Keys to the City of Pickering, and the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Keisha Smith-Jeremie is the Chief Human Resources Officer for News Corp, the largest news and information services provider in the English-speaking world with over 25,000 employees globally. In addition to her role as Chief Human Resources Officer, she has global responsibility for Corporate Security, Philanthropy and Global Environmental Impact. Keisha is also a Hudson Institute certified Executive Coach and the founder of Aerial View Life & Career Coaching.
Minda is the founder of The Memo LLC, a premiere career development platform for women of color. The Memo helps women of color prepare for their seat at the table with education, community, and access. In 2016, she was nominated as a Change Maker at The White House State of Women Summit.
Linsey Davis is a correspondent for ABC News, filing reports for World News, Good Morning America, 20/20 and Nightline. She has covered major news stories around the globe, including the Boston Marathon bombing, the Nairobi Mall massacre, and President Obamaâs return to Kenya as president. Her coverage ranges from the 2016 presidential election to social injustice, to various natural disasters, including the earthquake in Haiti and multiple hurricanes. Â Â
Black History Month might end on Feb 28th, but we don't believe that's a reason to stop celebrating black history.
In fact, we have celebrated our everyday black trailblazers each and every week for the past year. We have explored and highlighted these amazing individuals and how they are helping shape modern history.
Join us on this special podcast episode to celebrate our podcast's one year anniversary and the best lessons we have captured from these first 53 bold, black and blazing professionals, entrepreneurs and creatives.
In today's special feature episode of the Trailblazers podcast, we engaged in a panel conversation with three Spelman College alumnae: Dr. Monica F. Cox, Dr. Carlotta Berry and Dr. Rochelle Williams. They discussed being among some of today's most accomplished hidden figures, how to build a supportive community for black women and ways to start being #VisibleFigures in STEM.
05:31 Provide an overview of the movie and share what Hidden Figures was about.
06:17 Which character did each of you identify with most from the movie?
09:30 You all attended Spelman College and had a love for engineering. Could you speak to that?
11:49 What stood out most for each of you in the movie?
17:18 What specific scenes resonated most?
22:39 Was there anything else that continues to talked over and non-STEM venues?
25:07 Do you black men also question your role as engineers?
34:23 How important is community for women who are the first and maybe the only in their professions?
35:46 What are the main takeaways from the movie, from a STEM perspective?
38:20 Are black women in STEM hidden?
44:30 Do you think that engineering is any more hidden than the other sectors of STEM?
49:00 How do black women in STEM become more visible?
50:57 What can we do to change the public image of STEM to increase the number of girls and young children of color who go on to pursue careers in STEM?
54:56 How do we educate the public on what you women have been contributing to STEM and why it's important to have that diverse perspective and experiences?
01:00:34 What's next for the world's hidden figures? How do we continue this conversation after this award season and movie have passed?
01:04:14 How can we build community around this initiative and ideas we've discussed?
Tonya Rapley is a nationally recognized millennial money expert and founder of the award-winning site, My Fab Finance. She was deemed the "New Face of Wealth Building" by Black Enterprise magazine and was selected as a Modern History Maker by TV One. Her mission is to help millennial women break the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck and look fabulous while doing it.
Episode Outline
03:10 What are you most grateful for right now?
03:30 What got you interested in Finance?
04:15 What was the back story for putting this brand in place?
06:25 What MyFabFinance does today?
08:00 What steps did you take to build your personal brand over the past several years?
11:25 What have you had to give up to grow up?
14:00 The biggest misconceptions people have about their credit and finances?
21:20 What's the best wisdom you'd like to impart to those willing to listen?
23:20 Why black people struggle with investing for the next generation?
33:20 What's one action we should take this week to blaze our trail?Â
Devin Robinson (known to many as Professor Devin) talks with us today about the plight of black-owned businesses and shares why he believes that the knowledge and resources needed to succeed are different for black entrepreneurs than for others. Devin is a business and economics professor and author of eight self-help books.
Devin's Episode Outline:
02:16 What are you most grateful for right now?
03:32 What ignited the desire to become an entrepreneur?
08:00 Talk about Entrepreneurship being the 21st Century Civil Rights Movement
10:33 What is the biggest barrier to business ownership?
13:38 What were some challenges and failures along your path and what did you learn from them?
19:35 Devin shares the 4 steps that any aspiring entrepreneur should take to lay the right foundation for success
26:19 How do you go about finding the right people to bring into your organizations?
29:57 What's one thing you wish you'd known before starting your entrepreneurial journey?
34:25 Share one action our future trailblazers should commit to this week to help them blaze their trail?
Wesley Lowery is a Pulitzer Prizeâwinning national reporter for the Washington Post who covers law enforcement and justice. He was the paperâs lead reporter in Ferguson, Missouri, covering the Black Lives Matter protest movement, and was a member of the team awarded the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for National Reporting for coverage of police shootings. His reporting has previously appeared in the Boston Globe, the Los Angeles Times, and the Wall Street Journal.
Wesley's Episode Outline:
05:06 Did growing up and attending Shaker Heights High School and Ohio University have an impact your decision to become a journalist?
07:30 Why did you write this book [They Can't Kill Us All]?
09:10 Why did you accept the request to go to Ferguson?
12:10 What was it like for you, as a young reporter, trying to simply do your job and report on what had been happening, when those officers arrested you?
13:40 Did you feel a greater sense of connection to the people in Ferguson and what they'd been experiencing then?
16:00 What's been your biggest frustrations with the media, as it relates to racial justice movement?
18:26 As best you can, could you explain why you believe the black lives matter movement was started?
23:10 What good do you believe has come from this movement so far that might not have otherwise?
26:30 What should we be doing collectively within not only the black community, but also as a nation, to improve the national reception to the social injustices we are seeing?
28:00 Thoughts on how the Trump Administration will help or hurt this movement?
29:42 Do you plan to remain as actively involved in the coming years?
Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant is a large carnivore ecologist with the American Museum of Natural History. She is a pioneer among black women who have attained a Ph.D in her field, where she studies the American black bear, African lions in rural Kenya and Tanzania, and grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Dr. Wynn-Grant has attained 3 degrees, including a Masters degree from Yale University and a Ph.D from Columbia University. Don't miss this inspiring story from this extraordinary trailblazer.
Rae's Episode Outline:
02:00 What are you most grateful for?
03:12 Growing up in California
03:36 Was becoming a scientist a passion of yours as a kid?
05:00 Why did you decide on becoming a wildlife biologist?
08:21 Are you in danger with your work?
11:34 How much of your time is spent doing actual field work?
15:43 What's been one of the biggest lessons you've learned?
17:42 Tell us about an amazing discovery within your research?
20:45 What are some of the biggest hurdles preventing POC from pursuing careers in science?
25:10 What would you suggest to young men, women and parents of youth, with an interest in science?
35:30 What's one action we can all take this week to help us blaze our trail?
Dre Baldwin teaches Mental Toughness, Self-Confidence and Self-Discipline to athletes, entrepreneurs and business professionals.
On YouTube since 2006, Dre's content has been viewed overover 39 million times by 120,000 subscribers.
A Penn State alum, Dre coaches, speaks, blogs has a daily podcast, is writing several new books and programs, and still published to YouTube. Dre has appeared on 3 TED stages and written 11 top-selling books.
Dre's Episode Outline:
02:30 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
04:11 What ignited this path for you and why that niche?
09:31 Is there anything you wish you knew before you began this journey you're on?
10:29 Tell us about a time when you fell short of a goal or objective of yours?
15:57 Tell us what you're most passionate about doing in your day to day?
18:12 How are you using social media today to empower others?
20:32 How can we get started to share what we know?
23:28 What advice would you give to the aspiring trailblazer wanting to rise above?
24:25 How do you make decisions to separate the essential from the non-essentials?
26:09 Five books that inspired Dre most?
33:02 What is your why, what's pushing you?
35:50 What's one action we should commit to this week to blaze our trail?
Dr. Tiffany is national speaker, professional coach and mentor, trained licensed therapist and tenured associate professor of counseling. She works with individuals, teaching them step-by-step, how to create the life they want and desire.  Her passion is to help individuals who may be stuck in some area of life, to tap into their power and give themselves permission to step into their purpose and create the create life they want to live.  Some of the questions we asked Tiffany:
[02:00] What are you most grateful for right now?
[04:55] Is there someone that inspired your lifeâs work?
[12:05] What brought you to where you are right now?
[18:00] What was your greatest fear in all of this?
[19:10] Whatâs keeping so many people from living in their purpose?
Cheree Warrick writes business plans and creates financial forecasts for companies seeking funding from banks and angel investors. Chereeâs goal is to help over one thousand companies receive over $1 Billion in financing. She has helped clients from various industries (including dog daycare, restaurant, driving school, and catering company) raise the capital they need for growth. She has also coached or written business plans for close to 100 entrepreneurs.
Chereeâs Episode Outline:
[03:45] What are you most grateful for right now?
[05:50] What ignited your passion for business and finance?
[08:30] What happened in that experience that made you realize there was something more to it?
[10:30] What makes your heart sing in this work that youâre doing?
[11:30] What are the parts of a solid business plan?
[16:30] What are some of the obvious pitfalls that cause business plans to miss their mark and not be funded?
For over 20 years, Chef Bryce Fluellen has utilized his culinary skills to make a significant impact in the community. As Director of Operations for Magic Johnson Enterprises where he was responsible for the companyâs growth in under-served, urban areas all across the country to present day as the first Chef hired by American Heart Association to run Kids/Teens Cook with Heart, a healthy cooking and nutrition program that has positively impacted over 1,000 children and adults throughout Los Angeles County. He is also the founder of KIDS AT THE TABLE, a pop-up dinner that engages underserved teens in critical conversation that affects their everyday lives over a delicious wholesome meal. Since late 2015 the dinners have impacted over 300 teens!
Bryce's Episode Outline:
03:27 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
04:37 What Bryce does in his day to day?
07:38 What ignited the spark for you to become a chef?
11:22 What were some of the lessons you learned from owning your own catering company?
16:44 What's one thing you wish you knew or applied before starting your own business?
18:02 Why is what you're doing fulfilling your passion and purpose as a chef?
22:02 Was health and wellness always important to you?
32:34 What inspired you to author a book?
40:15 What would you tell someone wanting to author a book of their own?
46:14 What's one action our aspiring trailblazers should take to help them blaze their trail this week?
Grace Tartaglia is one of Canada's beauty gurus, with a regular presence in millions of homes through her longstanding guest expert position on City TVs City Line. Grace is known for her ability to create a women's best self by allowing her natural beauty to shine through.
Grace has been nominated for numerous prestigious awards within her profession, and she's been honored as a spokes person for the Princess Margaret hospital #NoHairSelfie campaign that raised the largest amount ever for one haircut totaling $740,000!
Lucinda Cross is a Master Coach, best-selling author, award winning speaker, TV personality, spokesperson and energetic teacher of personal and professional development. Lucinda is the creator and founder of the popular brands Activate!⢠and Activate Your Life Today!⢠and is the President of Activate WorldWide Inc.  In today's episode we talk about creating and taking action on your vision and goals, using vision boards.
Lucinda's Episode Outline:
02:11 What are you most grateful for right now?
03:45 What will it take for us to be able to rebuild, restore and reinvent?
06:27 What is a vision board?
08:12 How will a vision board actually help us achieve our goals?
10:25 What do we need to begin creating a vision board?
14:21 What strategy did you implement this year that helped you achieve your biggest goals?
17:29 What will help us take action, despite that fear standing in our way?
20:29 What tips or wisdom will help us get out of planning mode when the vision board is done, to begin to Activate the results we so badly desire?
24:43 What's one book you've read that's inspired you most?
27:22 What's one action all aspiring trailblazers should commit to this week to help them blaze their trail?
Marisa Renee Lee is a leader dedicated to engaging the private sector to help solve public problems. Lee serves as the Managing Director of the My Brotherâs Keeper Alliance (MBK Alliance), a nonprofit born out of President Obama's call to action to address the barriers to success that boys and young men of color (BYMOC) disproportionately face along the life path. Through her work with MBK Alliance, Lee leads a collaborative, cross-sectoral movement that unites business, philanthropy, nonprofit, and community leaders, to increase pathways of opportunity for black young men of color.
Marisa's Episode Outline:
02:40 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
03:30 We discuss the Pink Agenda that's raised over $2 million for cancer research
07:00 Marissa and I discuss the MBK Alliance, what's being done in this organization and how it truly impacts young black men and boys of color
12:30 Explains the MBK Alliance's Opportunity Summits and it's impact recently in the city of Detroit
15:35 How is MBK Alliance partnering with corporations and institutions?
19:17 How the country's racial income gaps impact our future and economy
24:00 What cities are the MBK Alliance focusing in on?
26:30 How can we take part in the work of the MBK Alliance?
27:50 What's a book you've read that's inspired you most?
30:55 What's something small you've done this month that you're proud of?
33:45 Name an online resource you use everyday and can't live without?
36:04 Share one action our aspiring trailblazers can do this week to blaze our trail?
Kevin Turpin II is the President of National Journal. Kevin is one of D.C.'s up and coming trailblazers that's helping lead one of Washington's most established and trusted media brands that serves government and business leaders in the nation's capital. In his various roles with National Journal, he's had exposure to product development, strategy research, digital and marketing. In today's conversation, we unpack some of his tips and wisdom around hiring and leading people. And we also discuss some of the most important things that go into doing product development. It's a power packed episode, sure to provide you some inspiration and knowledge, that you'll be able to apply in your own career or business.
Kevin's Episode Outline:
02:45 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
03:55 Kevin shares the story of how we won a car at a Georgetown basketball game in 2002
07:55 Discussion about Kevin being promoted twice in one year
10:05 What sacrifices have you had to make, especially as a young African American man, to propel you to become President of National Journal?
14:00 What have you learned about hiring and leading people and what's been your approach?
19:55 What have been some of your failures and what have you learned from them?
27:15 Shares advice for those looking to develop a new product
29:35 How do you plan to shift strategy to achieve your future goals and leave your mark on National Journal and the people you've been blessed to now impact?
34:40 Excluding National Journal, what companies or businesses do you admire the most and why?
45:30 One action that our trailblazers should commit to this week to help them blaze their trail
Today we welcome 2 time Grammy, Emmy and Dove award-winning producer Shannon Sanders. He's a talented producer, a profound songwriter and an amazing musician and knock-your-socks-right-on-off singer. Heâs currently President of the Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy.
Shannon's Episode Outline:
03:15 What are you most grateful in your life right now?
04:49 How did you get your start producing and writing music for others most notably John Legend, Heather Headley and your Grammy Award winning work with India Arie?
11:00 What have been one of those biggest lows for you, and what did you learn from it?
12:50 What's been your most satisfying moment in music?
14:35 What is your purpose or mission going forward? What motivates you today?
15:55 Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
17:40 Is there wisdom you'd want to share on achieving long term success in business?
20:50 What's one book you've read that's inspired you?
21:42 What's something small you've done that you're proud of?
22:33 What's an app, software or tool you use and can't live without?
23:15 What's one action our future entrepreneurs should take this week to help them blaze their trail?
I've opted do a solo show today. At the time of this episode going live, we're days away from Thanksgiving 2016 here in the United States. It's usually a time that allows us to reflect on all the many things we are grateful for. I think now more than any time in our past, it's a holiday that is so necessary. It seems that more and more noise and news enters and exits our minds daily, and even this week, the media and corporations would want your thoughts on football and Black Friday promotions, but I want to get away from the material and the money and the noise for just a little while. For a couple minutes, I'm going to share some of the events that have happened that really moved us all in 2016. I'm sure there are many more too, but I wanted to share those that came to mind, so we can all spend this time, and throughout this week and this season, in a mode of reflection. In 2016, we survived! We made it past what was hopefully the worst of the Zika virus. Some survived the bombing in Brussels and the shooting in Orlando, Florida. And though we can each think of a handful of viral reports of people that were shot and killed by police, the Washington Post has a database that shows that number as of today, at a tally of 844 people that were shot and killed by police in 2016. That's a very startling number. Our friends in Haiti, Cuba, the Bahamas and throughout the Southeast US, got hit by a very strong Hurricane Matthew. More than 1,000 people lost their lives in that storm alone. In 2016, we witnessed the passing of Trailblazers and legends in Muhammad Ali and Prince. And of course, we all look at the results of this election and for many like myself, we look at the end of a run by one iconic trailblazer in Barack Obama and his family. We should all be so grateful for the job he has done for our country. I know many voiced their frustrations at the job our government has done over these past eight years, but as I look at where we came from at the beginning of this administration in 2009, I'm especially happy that he was able to get as much done in that time. And I hope to someday soon, have him on this show to share some of that journey with our listeners. On a lighter note, as a Jamaican born migrant who has been a US citizen for more than 15 years, I'm especially proud of the outcome for both Jamaica and the United States at this summer's olympic games. Who couldn't be happier for Michael Phelps, Simone Manuel, Simone Biles, and of course Usain Bolt. And best of all, February 1, 2016 was the day we saw the Trailblazers Podcast launch it's programming and has since that point been downloaded in more than 74 countries across the globe. We have grown a social media community that is now in the 10s of thousands across Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. And we've been blessed to have heard stories from more than 40 successful professionals all over the country and a couple in other parts of the world. In the course of this year, I've learned to push myself past fears to realize this dream of being a podcaster. Fears of the unknown crippled me for years to see this dream become a reality. But with the help of God and those of you who sent emails, and tweets and shared encouraging whatsapp and facebook messages, you kept pushing me to do bigger and better things, you kept sharing, and we kept growing. For those guests who were kind enough to be transparent with our listeners, you've been a blessing to so many people from the Philippines, to Nigeria, from Latvia to Brazil and from the United Kingdom to Washington DC. I learned that done was better than perfect and learned to keep publishing through many of the audio struggles I experienced this summer when the platform I used to record with failed with the Windows 10 updates. But I pushed ahead and you kept downloading. Many have heard me talk candidly about the choice I made to focus on Trailblazers and push through alot. And once I made the decision this year, I learned quickly how to eliminate a ton of wasted time watching tv and idling on things that weren't essential. With a full time job, 2 young children and a wife and now this podcast, I had to focus on removing every obstacle, so I could execute consistently and be at this point celebrating 43 straight Monday mornings with an episode being published at 5am ET. My challenge to you today as we enter this holiday season is based on an amazing book I have listened to twice in the past 3 weeks on audiobook. It's titled Essentialism, by Greg McKeown. My challenge is to first read the book, then begin to look ahead to 2017 with a shift in your mindset. I want you to shift from an undisciplined pursuit of trying to chase all sorts of 'things'... material things, accolades, titles, and the like. I want you to instead, focus! Focus on the disciplined pursuit of less, but better! It's time to create more space to breathe and to think. It's time to celebrate the time we spend with the people that mean the most. Figure out what is most important and begin to make that your sole priority. God, family and my pursuit of making others around me better are what pushes me. I hope and I pray that 2017 will allow me to continue to push ahead toward less, but better. I am grateful to each and every one of you in our community. We're on track to see more than 20,000 downloads in 2016. I feel so blessed to have a part in so many people listening and learning from this podcast and our guests. I hope that you've grown from the content and I encourage you to keep sending me tweets and messages and emails and telling me what you want more of for the coming year. I firmly believe that the success of this podcast is heavily dependent on the involvement of our community and each of you, as you continue to share this podcast with your colleagues at work and school. Our message matters, but our messengers matter even more. We need you! I need you! As we look to 2017, I feel encouraged. I know that in light of the election season we saw, I know and I believe in my heart that the message of the Trailblazers podcast is needed now more than ever. We need to keep exploring and highlighting the stories of our successful black professionals, black entrepreneurs and black thought leaders. We need to keep this light shining on them. And as you hear these stories, I want you to put into action what you hear these guests encouraging you to do week in and week out. Keep going, keep trying, keep writing down your goals, and tasking them out. Keep putting on your blinders and pushing through the failures. Make a decision today to get started. You've got about 40 days left in 2016 to make this year amazing! Let's give thanks for all the many blessings we've had and let's enjoy this holiday season with those that matter most. I'll end with this quote from Napoleon Hill in Think & Grow Rich: Form the habit of persistence! Persistence to go the extra mile. Have the courage to persist. With persistence comes success. Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Cheers
Damienâs credentials are loaded. Although he was homeless in two different cities (LA and NY), he has shared the stage with the likes of everyone from Faith Hill and Big & Rich to John Legend. Heâs even a part of a country music group The Farm (along with doing solo work too). When heâs not on the road as an artist, heâs working alongside The Salvation Army and Boys & Girls Club to share his story of being one of 12 children, the first to graduate from high school and avoiding being a victim of the streets. One of his latest projects is EncourageInspireMotivate.com.
03:10 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
06:20 At what point growing up did you realize you'd build a career in music?
12:10 Share a personal road block you experienced? What happened and how you overcame it
14:55 What's been the biggest lessons you have learned about yourself based on your success? What's really worked for Damien to this point?
21:15 Tell us about your involvement with Redemption Songs Stories?
24:30 What do you actually do to push yourself to new and higher heights and keep from getting caught in comfort zones??
26:20 Damien shares insights into how we can be an inspiration and motivation to others in our own communities, schools and workplace
31:30 What's one book you've read in the past year that inspired you?
33:25 What is something small youâve done this month that you are proud of?
34:45 Name an online resource [could be an app, software, or tool] you use every day that you can't live without?
35:50 One action our trailblazers can take this week to blaze their trail
Rana Campbell is a marketing strategist, freelance writer, content creator, and podcast host who helps creatives and lifestyle entrepreneurs. She works as a Marketing Specialist for Dotcom Distribution and she's also the host of the Dreams In Drive podcast that was launched in January 2016. Rana is a native of Orange, NJ and is a recent graduate of Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Rana's work has been featured on MadameNoire, Blavity, Huffington Post, and Princeton Alumni Weekly.
Rana's Episode Outline:
03:25 What would you say you're most grateful for right now?
04:45 Why did you decide to study Sociology at Princeton University?
06:40 What was the experience like attending an Ivy League university as a black woman?
11:00 Take us through the transition from a degree in Sociology to a career in Marketing?
15:00 What is it about being a creative professional that inspires and motivates you to keep going?
18:20 How are you able to be deliberate and content with the choices and decisions you make, given the challenges of competing priorities?
21:30 What fueled the idea for Dreams in Drive?
26:00 What are some of the lessons you've learned about building relationships?
30:45 Have you been able to apply some of these tips to building and sustaining relationships?
34:00 How has being the host of Dreams in Drive helped you in your everyday interactions and growth?
40:20 What's one book you've read that inspired you most?
41:20 What is something small you've done this month that you're proud of?
42:00 Name an online resource that you use everyday and can't live without?
44:55 Share one action all aspiring trailblazers should commit to this week to help them blaze their trail?
46:50 Tell us how we can stay connected to you
Candice Cook Simmons is the Managing Partner at The Cook Law Group, PLLC and the Founder of the media company Namaskar Media. She is an attorney, published writer, filmmaker, noted philanthropist, and business strategist in the technology, entertainment, and corporate sectors.
Candice's Episode Outline:
03:00 What you are most grateful for in your life right now?
08:10 What was the problem you experienced that fueled your vision to create your businesses?
20:45 What are some of the biggest mistakes you made putting your business together?
29:55 How do you find people to bring into your organization that truly care about the organization and see the business model from your vantage point?
42:00 Are there potholes new entrepreneurs should be looking for that we're oblivious to when getting started in business?
55:00 Share a book you've read this year that's inspired you
55:40 What is something small youâve done this month that you are proud of?
56:35 Name an online resource, it could be an app, software, or tool you use every day and you can't live without it?
59:10 Share one action we should commit to, to help us blaze our trail?
Kwame is a business lawyer and founder of the American Negotiation Institute. He is passionate about teaching entrepreneurs and business professionals the art of negotiation so they can get better deals and advance their careers. He is regularly invited to give negotiation seminars and consults with individuals and companies to create and implement powerful negotiation strategies. He also hosts a podcast called Negotiation for Entrepreneurs where he interviews successful entrepreneurs and shares powerful persuasion techniques.
Kwame's Episode Outline:
02:40 What's something your most grateful for in your life right now?
03:15 You're a first generation Caribbean American yes? Where's your family from? Where'd you grow up?
04:32 Was law something you were always inspired by and aspired to do as a kid?
05:40 You worked with another law firm before beginning your own practice?
11:18 What was something you feared on your entrepreneurial journey that you had to overcome to experience the growth needed to step out on your own?
13:10 Is there anything you wished you'd known in hindsight before you started the business?
15:29 What is your definition of negotiation?
17:40 Why is negotiation one of the most important skills an entrepreneur needs to develop and utilize to experience massive success in their business?
22:38 How can we get better at negotiating in and for our businesses?
27:45 How have you used negotiation to help advance your business and career?
31:37 What's one book you've read recently that inspired you?
32:45 What's something small youâve done this month that you are proud of?
34:50 Name an online resource, it could be an app, software, or tool you use every day and you can't live without it?
36:00 Share one action our future entrepreneurs should commit to THIS WEEK, to help them blaze their trail?
Miko's Episode Outline:
- What was the problem that you or maybe Tito experienced that fueled your vision to create Miss Jessie's?
- Do you recall some of the creative strategies you both used back then to operate on minimal cash flow?
- What was your initial thoughts around the marketing message for your product line?
- How do you find people to bring into your organization that truly care about the organization the way you and Tito do?
- Share with us one of your major fears, road blocks or challenges?
- What advice would you give to the young black aspiring entrepreneurs listening?
- As a mother, how has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
- What are some of your routines that keeps you pushing yourself to those new and higher heights?
- What's one book you've read that inspired you most?
- What is something small youâve done this month that you are proud of?
- Name an online resource, it could be an app, software, or tool you use every day and you can't live without it?
- Share one action our future entrepreneurs should commit to THIS WEEK, to help them blaze their trail?
- How we can stay connected to you?
Miko Branch is the co-founder and CEO of Miss Jessieâs LLC, the company behind the premium hair care product line, Miss Jessieâs, that exclusively caters to the diverse spectrum of all curly hair types. Miko founded the company with her sister, Titi, and they named it after their beloved and fiercely independent âdo-it-for-yourself,â and âtell-it-like-it-isâ paternal grandmother â Jessie Mae Branch.
As the visionary behind the Miss Jessieâs brand, Miko revolutionized the hair care industry and became a leading pioneer of the natural hair movement by creating and marketing high performance and high quality hair care products. Miko quickly changed the conversation about hair and hair care by declaring that Miss Jessieâs products were not exclusively for a specific ethnic group but rather were for all types of textures and curls regardless of ethnicity. As a result, the Miss Jessieâs product line includes a variety of products for every type of texture and curl from wavy to coily.
Mikoâs finger print is evident in every aspect of the Miss Jessieâs brand from the packaging and marketing to the colors and smells of the award winning products, including favorites like Baby Buttercreme, Pillow Soft Curls, Curly Pudding, Quick Curls, Leave In Condish and MultiCultural Curls.
Miko continues to develop innovative, original and effective solutions for curly hair needs and she has acquired numerous accolades such as becoming a best selling author of business memoir, Miss Jessieâs: Creating A Successful Business from Scratch -Naturally (Harper Collins), WWD Most Influential Women in Business, Ebony 100, Centric 16/16 (16 Women To Watch in 2016), and she has graced the March 2016 cover of Black Enterprise Magazine as a result of her remarkable tenacity.
Although grateful to receive such recognition, Miko prefers to give, particularly to organizations that encourage the advancement and education of minority youth. Miko has partnered with the New York Urban League and the United Negro College Fund in sup-port of their scholarship programs, and has made charitable donations to the Doe Foundation, NAACP, and Morehouse College.
Ike's Episode Outline:
02:30 What's something you're most grateful for in your life right now?
03:33 What was the problem that you discovered that fueled your vision and allowed you to start UpStart?
05:00 Why focus UpStart on lawyers? Why that niche first?
06:38 Have you expanded to other professions? And what other professions have worked well for your model?
08:10 Why Ike at one point got rid of 20% of his clients
10:00 Where did capital come from to get the agency off the ground?
11:00 What kind of creative strategies do you recall having done in the early stages of your business that worked for you?
14:11 What have been some of your failures and how have you learned from them? [Dont Miss This]
14:51 What have been some #EpicLessons?
17:34 What does your business focus on beyond Pay Per Click & Google based ads?
18:34 How long have you been running UpStart?
18:45 What's 3 pieces of advice you'd want to give a college student who aspires to be an entrepreneur?
21:13 Is there a pattern or formula to being successful as an entrepreneur?
21:30 How do you define success?
22:28 How do you go about finding employees that care about your company the way you do?
25:00 How has being a business owner affected your family life?
26:30 Ike explains why we must become business owners and not business operators
28:00 What are some books you've read that have inspired you most?
29:30 What's something small you've done this month that you're proud of?
29:58 Tell us an app, software or tool you use everyday that you can't live without?
31:40 Ike shares one action that aspiring trailblazers should commit to this week to help you blaze your trail?
Ike Anderson's Full Bio
Ike Anderson has been a âserial entrepreneurâ since age nine, when he enlisted the âpower of duplicationâ with several other boys, creating a direct sales candy company that grew into an international business with an evolutionary distribution model, before he was 15. In the same spirit, he is now the CEO and founder of UpStart Internetâ˘, a niche Internet Marketing and Digital Advertising Agency that serves clients in creating their vision with laser-focused accuracy by maximizing online user experience and strategy. He oversees the day-to-day operations and manages the agency's Search Engine Optimization architecture, and a top-notch team of creative, and analytical staff.
Ikeâs lifelong commitment to developing transparent and focused professional relationships has allowed business to grow, almost exclusively, by word of mouth and has supported the acquisition of six other companies to ensure the best of all services to his clients. Coupled with knowledge, intuition, and skill, Upstart Internet, under Andersonâs leadership, fulfills the demands of an ever-evolving global marketplace and Internet with an inspired vision for success, further expansion and a meticulous plan for its fulfillment. With a vision of collaboration and huge belief that âwe are always better togetherâ infused in everything he does, Ike and his team are making global impact for their clients and the not-for-profit corporations he mentors.
His involvement with Martial Arts since the age of six and being part of a tight-knit family, taught him discipline, how to work through adversity with respect, and how to create win-win opportunities for all involved; all translating into enormous results. He continues to be involved in his local community, is a champion for the highest and best outcomes, and looks forward to entering the political arena to champion causes that will move humanity forward. He has provided keynote address and public speaking in a variety of venues that are a call to action.
Tiffany F. Southerland is a lawyer by training and change agent at heart. She attained 3 degrees from 2 different Ivy League universities, before starting her career as an attorney at an AMLaw 100 law firm in Philadelphia. She transitioned from practicing law to a career in higher education as Associate Director of Admissions, Diversity and Inclusion at a law school and later returned to the law firm where her career began as Manager of Professional Recruitment.
Tiffany's Episode Outline:
02:50 What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
03:30 Did you envision becoming a lawyer, coach or speaker at an early age?
04:40 What is like being a black woman with multiple degrees from two different Ivy League schools?
07:00 How can young girls best position themselves to get accepted to an Ivy League university?
08:30 Why did you choose the educational path of studying Human Development and Social Work, before going to law school?
11:15 Did your educational path inspire the trifecta of writing, speaking and coaching?
12:20 Why did you decide to do a TEDx talk?
15:00 What was the reception to your TEDx talk?
16:15 What steps did you take and are still working on to continue to become a great public speaker?
18:00 How can someone wanting to do a TEDx go about securing that opportunity?
19:30 Do you have coaches and mentors who help guide you and hold you accountable to your own goals?
20:45 What's on your vision board for the next 10 years and beyond?
23:30 What's something small you've done this month that you're proud of?
25:00 Why is volunteering so important to you and giving back of your time, talents, and treasures?
26:15 Impart an inspiring parting message that will help our community to blaze their trail
Full bio at: tbpod.com/tiffanysoutherland
Rahfeal's Episode Outline:
03:30 Why were you homeless and what was it like to be on the streets with no place to call home?
05:25 Take us through the transition from being homeless to a global leader and entrepreneur?
10:00 What are you creating through your influence and platform?
12:00 How can we tap into our true potential in life and business?
14:20 Is there a difference between joy and happiness?
16:30 One of the biggest mistakes you've made as an entrepreneur?
20:00 Describe the changes of a transformation that we must go through to pivot, plan and pursue our purpose and passion?
24:00 When we look out 10 years, what should we expect from you?
Rahfeal Gordon has come a long way from his hardships of being homeless in the streets of Newark, New Jersey â U.S.A. He is recognized as one of the top international speakers and advisors for world leaders and entrepreneurs who are impacting the world. For over a decade, Rahfeal has been leveraging the core fundamentals that promote productivity and impact. He provides in-depth strategies and key insight into the environmental and physical circumstances that impact an individual's personal and business performance.
International Award Winning Entrepreneur
Rahfealâs stellar resume begins with the establishment of his first successful company, Infinite Productions, while attending Arts High School in New Jersey at the age of 15. The company mission was to develop events that provided unity within the high school and college campuses.
In 2001, Rahfeal established his first non-profit organization entitled âTeam Infinite (T.I.)â, on the campus of Montclair State University and Bloomfield College. In addition to the success of Team Infinite, in 2005, he established the Rahfeal C. Gordon Scholarship Foundation. The Scholarship is designed to benefit high school and college students with average grades, but exhibit exceptional business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.
In 2008, Rahfeal launched RahGor Motivations & Publishing, a company that provides global speaking platforms, management, consulting, and book publishing services for individuals who have powerful stories, testimonies or expertise in a particular field. He has written fourteen (14) published books that focus on personal development and global leadership. Following the establishment of the RahGor brand, Rahfeal was tapped to be a featured entrepreneur in the AMC Theaters distributed film, TEN9EIGHT, produced by Award-winning producer Mary Mazzio.
Recently, Rahfeal released his new book entitled, âSKYSCRAPER: GOING BEYOND YOUR LIMITS TO REACH GREATNESS.â He became the Global Ambassador of the International Hub in Oslo, Norway, which houses and provides resources for start-up entrepreneurs from 21 different countries. Rahfeal also co-founded the Voices for World Peace organization - A platform that brings together a diverse group of global leaders and youth to work in solidarity to eradicate issues such as extremism, terrorism, and inequality by sharing ideas and creating strategies to bring peace and unity to areas of conflict around the world.
Nicole's Episode Outline:
03:55 What is it about academia and being an educator that's so fascinating to you?
05:50 Are you able to give your students more than the knowledge to prepare for college? Are you able to relate some of your experiences to them as well?
06:30 What's been the biggest thing you've identified as holding your students back from achieving their maximum potential?
09:00 Are you challenged with helping your students to develop their soft skills?
11:00 As an entrepreneur, what's the biggest mistake you've made and how did you overcome it?
14:00 Do you have coaches and mentors that help guide you and your business forward? What's your support system like?
19:30 What is your advice to an aspiring entrepreneur wanting to plan, grow, and succeed on their journey?
23:00 What can we look forward to from you on your vision board for the next 10 years and beyond?
35:10 Nicole imparts an inspiring final word to help us blaze our trail
36:40 How will the world be different because you pursued what you were most passionate about?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Robin Sharma
Brian Tracy
Instagram: @thelcshow
Nicole's Favorite Books:
No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline by Brian Tracy
Democracy Matters: Winning the Fight Against Imperialism by Cornell West
Connect with Nicole:
AIM Educational Services website
Nicole Campbell's personal website
Nicole on Instagram: @nicolemclarencampbell @nicspire @aimeduservices
Nicole McClaren Campbell's Bio
Nicole Campbell is an educator, entrepreneur and professional speaker. Driven by a passion for empowerment, she represented Jamaica at MITâs Junior Summit and was selected to address then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan at just 13 years old. She was subsequently featured in local and international media, including CNN and Nickelodeon and was chosen as one of "20 Teens Who Will Change the World" by Teen People Magazine.
She is a graduate of the St. Andrew High School for Girls, and completed her high school studies at Phillips Academy 'Andover' in Massachusetts, before going on to earn an undergraduate degree in Economics from Princeton University in 2006. Nicole also studied at Stanford Universityâs Summer Institute and the University of London, where she earned a Masters Degree in Globalization and Development.
Nicole returned to Jamaica immediately to join the Ministry of Education where she served as Senior Policy Analyst to the then Minister of Education, now Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness. At 25, Nicole resigned from the Ministry to start AIM Educational Services - with just two students. Nicole sites her decision to tap into her passion for human development in education as one of the best sheâs made. Today, AIM sees hundreds of students and delivers an average return of over 5000% to parents â results Nicole attributes to a strong, motivated team whose focus remains on possibilities, not problems. She recently started the AIM Higher Foundation with a mandate to identify, develop and empower promising low-income students so that they too can access unlock their potential through access to tertiary education.
Parents seek Nicole for the impact she has on their teenagers â how she pushes them to adopt empowering perspectives and to create possibilities for their futures, with their present actions. Her passion for empowerment extends beyond the classroom to the boardroom and beyond. Noted for her no-nonsense, yet practical approach, Nicole addresses corporate and public audiences on the subject of maximizing potential in their personal and professional lives. Each year she speaks at high schools across Jamaica and has spoken for companies including Access Financial, Caribbean Broilers, JMMB, Sagicor Jamaica and Scotiabank. She also serves as a Board Member of the Early Childhood Commission and the CHASE Fund in Jamaica. In her own words, âeverything that I do is really an extension of my passion to empower people - to me, nothing can match the excitement and sense of fulfillment I get from helping people to grow in confidence and realize their potential.â
She is wife to reggae artiste Assassin aka Agent Sasco (Jeffrey Campbell), mom to 4-year old LC, 3year-old Joshua and âbonus-momâ to 10-year-old Ally. She loves taking videos of her kids and posting them to her favourite social media platform: Instagram. A self-professed inspirational quote junkie, her personal motto is âAIM High and Be Boldâ and her mission is to squeeze every ounce of life, from life.
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In this episode, I asked Ace questions like:
05:25 Why is buying a business more profitable than building a business from scratch?
08:15 How can someone buy an existing business with no money down?
13:30 Ace describes his revenue sharing model with his clients
14:20 How can you grow a business, then sell it for maximum value?
17:00 What's one of the biggest mistakes you've ever made buying or selling a business?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
-The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries
-Slack
-LinkedIn Groups
-Alvin's Favorite Books:
Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?: How Reginald Lewis Created a Billion-Dollar Business Empire
Ace Chapman Links:
-AceChapman.com
-Ace Chapman on Snapchat: Ace.Chapman
-Ace Chapman email: ace[at]acechapman[dot]com
-Ace Chapman on: Instagram/Twitter - @acechapman
-YouTube: search - Ace Chapman
Ace Chapman's Bio
Rescuing small businesses is all the rage on television. Whether it's Jon Taffer with Bar Rescue, or Tabitha Coffey's Salon Takeover. Despite the fact that none of them do it, these TV shows are fueling interest in a new trend. Move over Real Estate Flippers, Ace Chapman is building a nationwide group of business flippers.
Ace bought his first business at 19 with some savings from a summer job and caught the business buying bug. He leveraged $3,000 he saved working the summer before college into buying a business for $70,000. Over the last 16 years he has bought 40 businesses. Everything ranging from a Mortgage Company to a Clothing Retailer.
And right now he is seeing an explosion in the market for businesses under $2,000,000. "There are millions of Baby Boomer business owners who will bring their business to market in the next decade so they can retire. During the recession, many baby boomers wanted to sell their company but decided to hold off until better economic times."
At the same time many entrepreneurs are realizing the risks associated with starting from scratch are too high and are deciding to buy an existing profitable business instead.
Business sales saw a spike in 2013. While we saw a 68% increase in 2013 according to BizBuySell.com, business brokers expect 2014 to be even bigger. And while private equity firms are well positioned to take advantage of this increase in inventory, very few are paying attention to what Ace calls the Micro-Private Equity Market.
Ace began working with first time business buyers of business buyers and helping them find, do due diligence, and finance small business acquisitions. "I have had a lot of people who find me and ask to invest in my deals. I'd rather show you what I am doing than take your money and have to split my returns."
Since starting his network of business buyers, he has helped members close deals all over the country. From 2 Sylvan Learning Centers in Seattle, to a software company in Pittsburgh and from a fitness gym in Huntsville, to a Catholic retailer in South Dakota, these were all deals done in recent months by the network.
Business buyers are attracted to buying a business instead of starting one for obvious reasons.
It's easier to get financing to buy an existing business than to start a new one. Bankers and investors are more comfortable in dealing with businesses which already have proven work results.
Starting a new business requires investments in a period of 3 to 6 months, and many entrepreneurs never get to the period of earning. When buying an existing business you have an idea of what your salary is going to be on day one.
Business buyers do not have to go through hiring and training new employees, developing operation systems, and marketing plans. They start day one improving the business instead of building each department from scratch.
Still Ace says buying a business is risky, especially if you do not know what you are doing. "Whenever you are buying a business you are looking at the past, there is no guarantee that those numbers reflect the future", says Chapman. "You should find a business broker or advisor who has your best interest at heart. The more experience you and your advisors have, the easier it is to find the hidden landmines in any business.
Alvin Irby, an elementary teacher turned comedian / social entrepreneur, is a southern transplant living in New York City. In 2013, Irby founded Reading Holiday Project Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit literacy organization, and created Barbershop Books, a nationally recognized literacy program that places child-friendly reading spaces in barbershops. This innovative program has been featured on NBC, CBS, Black Enterprise Magazine and CNN. In addition to performing stand up and managing Barbershop Books, Irby gives motivational talks to middle and high school students and delivers keynote talks about cultural competency, early literacy, Black Male Achievement, and social entrepreneurship at national conferences across America.
In this episode, I asked Alvin: * 02:45 Was being a teacher your dream as a child? * 03:40 What inspired your desire to teach? * 06:00 What inspired Barbershop Books? * 08:45 Where do you turn to for mentorship, coaching and support? * 10:00 Was the transition from your full time as a teacher to Barbershop Books a long process? * 13:45 What have been the biggest lessons you've learned about yourself through this transition from teacher to founder of the Reading Holiday Project? * 15:30 What do you do to get out of your own head with fears when the fear begins to creep in? * 18:00 What advice would you give to a teacher who has an entrepreneurial idea? * 22:30 How do you define success? * 23:30 What are you most grateful for right now? * 24:45 What is on your vision board for Barbershop Books for the next 5 years and beyond?
Links and resources: * Barbershop Books Website * Barbershop Books on: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram * Alvin's Favorite Books: + On Writing: 10th Anniversary Edition: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King + Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee + Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger
Alvin Irby's Bio Alvin is the Founder of Reading Holiday Project, Inc. and Chief Reading Inspirer at Barbershop Books Barbershop Books is a community-based literacy program that creates child-friendly reading spaces in barbershops for boys ages 4-8. Alvin and the Barbershop Books brand look to leverage the cultural significance of barbershops in Black communities to help black boys identify as readers. This innovative approach connects black men and families to black boysâ early reading experiences. It also improves boysâ access to culturally relevant, age appropriate, and gender responsive childrenâs books, while increasing the amount of time boys read for fun. Reading Holiday Project, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works to close the reading achievement gap for black boys. Barbershop Books is the organizationâs first program. Alvin Irby, an elementary teacher turned comedian / social entrepreneur, is a southern transplant living in New York City. As the middle child of three rambunctious kids, he quickly discovered his gift for making people laugh. Irbyâs smart brand of comedy draws on his eclectic educational, professional, and life experiences. Since moving to New York City in 2007, Irby has completed two Masters degrees, performed at comedy clubs, festivals, and colleges throughout the United States, taught kindergarten and 1st grade, and served as Education Director at the Boys Club of New York. In 2013, Irby founded Reading Holiday Project Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit literacy organization, and created Barbershop Books, a nationally recognized literacy program that places child-friendly reading spaces in barbershops. This innovative program has been featured on NBC, CBS, Black Enterprise Magazine and CNN. In addition to performing stand up and managing Barbershop Books, Irby gives motivational talks to middle and high school students and delivers keynote talks about cultural competency, early literacy, Black Male Achievement, and social entrepreneurship at national conferences across America. Irby was one of nine national finalists (out of more than 600 comedians) selected by NBC to perform in the 2015 StandUp NBC Finale Showcase at the Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles, CA. Irbyâs clever social commentary and hilarious observations have made him one of comedyâs freshest new voices. Alvin Irby fuses education, comedy, public speaking, and social entrepreneurship to make people laugh and to help create transformative learning experiences for underserved children. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show.
Representative Edwin âEdâ Narain is a dedicated member of the Tampa Bay community and has served in various civic leadership roles for more than two decades. I've known him personally for almost 20 years from our time working together in Student Government at USF.  In November 2014, Ed was elected to the Florida House of Representatives as the State Representative for District 61 and he is presently running for the Florida State Senate District 19 race, with hopes of making a bigger difference for his community, city and the state of Florida. Listen on iTunes, Google Play Music, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Ed: 02:45 What are you most grateful in your life right now? 06:25 Was there a specific moment when you realized what you were born to do? 07:45 What have been some of the biggest things you learned about yourself since taking the State Representative seat? 09:30 How do you find the right people for your team? 10:50 How do you prepare for really big moments speaking publicly? 12:30 How do you remain in a confident and positive mindset throughout the pressures of an election season? 14:30 What's one of the biggest mistakes you've made as a politician and leader? 16:20 How do you make time for your wife and children, in the midst of this busy election season? 17:20 What are some of the key attributes someone should be looking at Ed Narain for? Why Ed and why now? 26:20 An inspiring message from Ed Narain on the 3 Fs, taking action and just doing it! Links and resources: EdNarain.com Ed Narain on: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Edwin's Book Recommendation: All Labor Has Dignity" (King Legacy) by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Edwin Narain's Bio Edwin âEdâ Narain is a dedicated member of the Tampa Bay community who has served in various civic leadership roles more than two decades. The oldest of three sons born to Aubron and Yvonne Narain (Fort Lauderdale, FL), Ed moved to Tampa in 1994 to attend the University of South Florida. There he was elected President of the Student Body (1997-98) and was voted USFâs First Fall Homecoming King. While at South Florida, he partnered with the United Way to develop the first Student driven United Way campaign and received the Department of Student Affairs first Student Leadership Award. In 2015, he received the USF Presidentâs African American Advisory Committeeâs Ike Tribble Kente Alumni Award. Ed works has worked with several organizations that are committed to helping children and the working poor. He is a member of the Childrenâs Board of Hillsborough County, and served for several years on the Hillsborough County Head Start Policy Council and the Hillsborough County Community Action Board. A Life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., in 2008 he was honored as the Tampa Alumni Chapterâs Man of the Year. In 2010, he earned the alumni chapterâs Leadership Award for guiding the chapter to its first Southern Province Chapter of the Year Award as President. Professionally, Ed is a Regional Director with AT&T and is a three-time Florida Top Performance Manager of the Year (2009, 2010 & 2013). He has also earned two AT&T Summit Awards given to performers within the top two percent of the company (2005, 2013). A member of Leadership Floridaâs College Leadership Florida (Class I) and Connect Florida (Class IV) statewide leadership programs, Ed earned a BA degree in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration from Saint Leo University. In 2013, he completed a Leadership Certificate and earned a Jurist Doctorate degree from Stetson University College of Law where he also received the Deanâs Award for outstanding service to the law school. In November 2014, Ed was elected to the Florida House of Representatives as the State Representative for District 61. As a freshman legislator, Ed was elected Chairman of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus,
Cornell Thomas is the perfect example of turning a loss into a win. Two weeks away from playing professional basketball in Europe, Cornell suffered a career ending injury that derailed his dream. Growing up with adversity his whole life allowed Cornell to get past âWhy Meâ and focus on âWhat Nowâ. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Cornell: 02:45 What happened during the years between 2003 and 2010? What was that valley like between basketball and coaching? 11:00 What has been the most amazing thing that's happened since you started the Power of Positivity movement? 16:00 Do you think most people today are unhappy with themselves and their lives? 19:30 Tell us about your Positivity Summit and what you are trying to create with and through this event? 27:00 What do you do to keep pushing yourself to new and higher heights with your work? 30:50 How were you able to get your family to buy into your big entrepreneurial dreams? 32:50 How do you define success? 33:20 What are you most grateful for in your life right now? Links and resources mentioned: Cornell-Thomas.com Cornell on: Twitter, Instagram Cornell's Fav Books: How to Be Interesting: (In 10 Simple Steps) by Jessica Hagy The Art of Non-Conformity: Set Your Own Rules, Live the Life You Want, and Change the World by Chris Guillebrea Cornell Thomas's Bio Cornell is a father, husband, author, speaker, and coach. Cornell thought his purpose in life was to play professional basketball. In 2003 he received a contract to play professional basketball in Portugal. A dream he had would finally come to fruition.  But two weeks before he was supposed to leave he suffered a career ending injury. Little did he know, that injury would help him find his true purpose in life. In 2010, he decided he wanted to start a new movement. He began writing his own motivational quotes. Those quotes eventually led him to starting and writing a blog, and the blog led to him writing his first book âThe Power Of Positivity-Controlling Where The Ball Bounces.â This helped Cornell realize his true purpose, to inspire and motivate others. Cornell now speaks all over the United States, sharing his story with people from all walks of life. He dares others to say and think 'What Now', instead of 'Why Me' when they find themselves faced with adversity. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Phaon Spurlock serves as the Communications Manager for the Multicultural Marketing department at Prudential Financial. He is also the Founder of LuxuriousPROTOTYPE Online Menâs Lifestyle Magazine and Owner of BKLYN LEAGUE Menâs Apparel, Accessories and Home Goods. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed a lot and I asked Phaon several questions, including:  What was your dream as a child?  What have been the biggest lessons you've learned about yourself while working in your corporate marketing gigs, that carried over and helped you create the magazine and your new brand, BKLYN LEAGUE?  What was the big opportunity you saw most other fashion entrepreneurs missing, that sparked the idea and led you to creating BKLYN League?  How do you impose life balance, eating right, exercise and the other important elements of a healthy life, when you're required to work an extra 6-8 hours some days to make your entrepreneurial dream a reality?  What are you most grateful for right now?  What can we look forward to with you? Are there any big dreams and goals on your vision board for the next 10 years and beyond that you'd care to share with us? Links and resources mentioned: BKLYNLeague.com Phaon on: Twitter, Instagram BKLYN League on: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook LuxuriousPrototype on: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, website Phaon's Fav Book: The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded Phaon Spurlock's Bio Phaon Spurlock serves as the Communications Manager for the Multicultural Marketing department at Prudential Financial. He is also the Founder of LuxuriousPROTOTYPE Online Menâs Lifestyle Magazine and Owner of BKLYN LEAGUE Menâs Apparel, Accessories and Home Goods. Phaonâs professional background includes marketing and communication experience working with Seedco, Alloy Media & Marketing, Major League Baseball, New York State Senate, USA Network and McDonalds. He holds a BS in Biology from Southeastern Louisiana University and a Marketing Certificate from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He also serves as a junior board member at the Eagle Academy Foundation. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc, Carnegie Hall, New Jersey Performing Arts Center LGBT Advisory Council and Ivy. Phaon has a passion for community service and philanthropy which is why he spends much of his time volunteering for Hashtag Lunch Bag, Impulse Group NYC and Eagle Academy and contributing to the American Museum of Natural History, 20/20/20, Order of Malta, MoCADA, Black Lives Matter Movement, Evidence Dance Company and the Guggenheim Museum. He was recently listed as one of the 100 Modern Men of Distinction for Black Enterprise Magazine, one of the 6 Young Professionals on the Rise â Success in the Career Jungle 2014 & 2015 and Top 50 New Media Moguls â Rainbow Fashion Network 2014. Phaon is a Brooklyn, NY resident and a Baton Rouge, LA native. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Maurice Cherry is the founder and principal at Lunch, a multidisciplinary studio in Atlanta, GA that helps creative brands craft messages and tell stories for their targeted audiences, including fostering relationships with underrepresented communities. Past clients and collaborators include Vox Media, NIKE, Mediabistro, Site5, SitePoint, and The City of Atlanta. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed a lot and I asked Maurice several questions, including: 02:00 What are you most grateful for in your life right now? 03:30 What are you hoping to create through your brands? 05:25 What are you most passionate about when building these platforms? 06:25 What have been some of the biggest lessons you've learned? 11:00 Are you able to monetize the podcast? 12:30 What have you been doing in your business in the past 6 months to 1 year that have brought you to the success you're experiencing today? 19:15 Is it still important that we establish a solid brand identity? Why?? 24:00 Share a road block, challenge or fear you had and how you overcame it to move forward 30:00 Share a couple lessons that someone listening who is wanting to pivot needs to know to grow and succeed on their journey? 32:30 What can we look forward to with you in 10 years and beyond? Links and resources mentioned: MauriceCherry.com Lunch: YepItsLunch.com Podcast: RevisionPath.com Maurice's Fav Books: Creative Strategy and The Business of Design Unlabel: Selling You without Selling Out The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers Design is a Job The Five  Love Languages Maurice Cherry Bio Maurice Cherry is the founder and principal at Lunch, a multidisciplinary studio in Atlanta, GA that helps creative brands craft messages and tell stories for their targeted audiences, including fostering relationships with underrepresented communities. Past clients and collaborators include Vox Media, NIKE, Mediabistro, Site5, SitePoint, and The City of Atlanta. Maurice is a pioneering digital creator who is most well-known for the Black Weblog Awards, the Web's longest running event celebrating Black bloggers, video bloggers, and podcasters. Other projects of Maurice's include the award-winning podcast Revision Path, 28 Days of the Web, and The Year of Tea. His projects and overall design work and advocacy have been recognized by NPR, News One, CNN, AIGA, HOW, Print, The Atlanta-Journal Constitution, and The Los Angeles Times. Maurice is also an educator, and has built curricula and taught courses on web design, web development, email marketing, WordPress, and podcasting for thousands of students over the past ten years. Maurice was named one of Atlantaâs âPower 30 Under 30âł in the field of Science and Technology by the Apex Society, one of HPâs â50 Tech Tastemakersâ in conjunction with Black Web 2.0, and was selected by Atlanta Tribune as one of 2014's Young Professionals. Maurice holds a Bachelorâs degree in Mathematics from Morehouse College and a Masters degree in telecommunications management from Keller Graduate School of Management. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Tameka Montgomery was appointed by President Obama to lead the Office of Entrepreneurial Development at the U.S. Small Business Administration. In her capacity as Associate Administrator, she is charged with driving programs and policies that support national entrepreneurial training and education programs such as Small Business Development Centers, Womenâs Business Centers, Regional Innovation Clusters, ScaleUp America, online education and the national SCORE mentoring program. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed a lot and I asked Tameka several questions, including: 03:10 Could you tell us a little about what it is that you do in your day to day at SBA? 05:50 What have been the biggest lessons you have learned about yourself during the term of this appointment? 07:00 Could you maybe dispel the myth about SBA providing direct funds and loans, and maybe explain a few of the ways the SBA is able to assist a startup & existing business with getting access to capital? 08:45 What % of SBA guaranteed loans are going to minority and women owned businesses? 11:45 How can we go about gaining access to SBA guaranteed loans / funding? 13:20 How can we connect with local Small Business Development Centers? 13:55 Are these local centers and agencies independent of the Small Business Administration? 14:15 The costs of working with business advisors through SBA and their partner resource agencies 15:30 The scope of the resources available to individuals locally across the U.S. 17:15 Tell us about some of the biggest mistakes you've seen entrepreneurs making as it relates to marketing their business? 18:30 Are Small Business Development Centers able to assist with the market research needs of business owners? 20:00 What are some effective strategies that you and your team have been able to work with businesses across the country and help them not only experience staying power, but help them grow steadily over time? 22:30 What would be 2 or 3 fundamental lessons you'd want me to take hold of in the process of that pivot to entrepreneurship? How can I begin to lay the right foundation to grow and succeed on my entrepreneurial journey? 27:00 What's next for you? Are there any big goals and plans on your vision board that you'd care to share with us? Links and resources mentioned: Small Business Administration website Tameka Montgomery on LinkedIn Tameka's Fav Resource: Trip Case App Tameka's Fav Books: The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller  Tameka Montgomery Bio Associate Administrator, Office of Entrepreneurial Development US Small Business Administration. In 2013, Tameka Montgomery was appointed by President Obama to lead the Office of Entrepreneurial Development at the U.S. Small Business Administration. In her capacity as Associate Administrator, she is charged with driving programs and policies that support national entrepreneurial training and education programs such as Small Business Development Centers, Womenâs Business Centers, Regional Innovation Clusters, ScaleUp America, online education and the national SCORE mentoring program. Ms. Montgomery believes that small businesses truly are the economic backbone of our nation.  She has a passion for equipping individuals with the tools needed to achieve the American Dream of building a successful and thriving small business. Prior to her appointment, Ms. Montgomery was the executive director of the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation as well as the executive director of the nationally recognized Denver Metro Small Business Development Center (Denver Metro SBDC) for more than seven years. While there, she provided vision, leadership and strategic direction to develop and deliver programming and services for small businesses. Under Montgomeryâs leadership,
Dr. Christi Hay, MD MPH is a board certified general pediatrician.  She attended Stanford University for undergrad and University of Virginia for medical school.  She's worked in academia as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics for The George Washington University, and also worked in private practice for several years.  A few years ago she left a busy practice to begin Palisades Pediatrics, and she now focuses her time on providing personalized pediatric care to her patients right in their very own home.  Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Dr. Hay several questions, including: 03:15 What are you most grateful for right now? 04:00 What ignited the desire to be a doctor and to focus on pediatrics? 05:45 What are some of the big lessons you learned while working at Childrenâs? 08:20 Tell us a little more about Palisades Pediatrics? 11:45 Where did you get business guidance to pivot to where you are now? 14:45 Do you have a support system and people who help to hold you accountable today? 15:45 How do you fight through the self doubt and challenges that come, how do you push through that? 21:15 Before starting your practice, did you actually do research to see if potential patients would like home visits? 25:00 What are a couple fundamental steps other doctors need to know to lay the right foundation for setting up their own practice? Links and resources mentioned: Palisades Pediatrics website Palisades Pediatrics on Facebook Dr Hay's Fav Resource: SmartPhone Calculator App Dr Hay's Fav Books: Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg  Christi Hay's Bio & TEDX Talk Dr. Christi Hay is a native of California, who now calls the Washington Metropolitan area home. She received a Bachelorâs Degree in Human Biology from Stanford University, a Masterâs Degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan and her Medical Degree from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Dr. Hay completed a pediatric residency program at Childrenâs National Medical Center in Washington, DC. She is a board certified general pediatrician. Dr. Hay has worked in academia for The George Washington University as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics. In this capacity, Dr. Hay taught pediatric residents, medical and physician assistant students. Dr. Hay also worked in private practice in the Spring Valley area of Washington, DC for several years. Dr. Hay enjoys all aspects of pediatrics but she has special interests in developmental delays, early childhood literacy, breastfeeding, reactive airway disease/asthma, nutrition and fitness.  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Melissa Carter is the founder of "IGNITE WITH MELISSA", LLC. She holds an MBA and is a former music industry corporate executive turned Life Empowerment and Strategy Coach. After years of morbid obesity preventing her from tying her own shoes, depression, failed relationships, and a core belief system of not being "good enough," Melissa embarked on a 150-pound weight loss journey that inspired a career and life transformation.  Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Melissa several questions, including:  What are you most grateful for right now?  What ignited a desire in you to want to get into the music industry?  What are some of the big lessons you learned while working with these music brands?  How do you explain what's inside you, that allowed you to get up each day with positive gratitude and fight the natural urges ... that ... most of us have to remain in the place of comfort... eating what we love to eat ... making a 1,000 excuses why we can't change our outward appearance?  Talk about your support system that helped you through your dark valleys?  What are you doing today as a Holistic Life Coach and what does your day to day look like?  You're having a bad day, bad week, bad month. You're facing business challenges, family issues, someone you know is ill, life is happening ... right ... How do you handle your clients and your work and push through those moments when life is happening?  Do you think that despite losing your relationship and the pain of going through other loss, you gained clarity and revealed your purpose? Links and resources mentioned: IgniteWithMelissa.com Melissa on Instagram Melissa on Twitter Melissa's Fav Books: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck Melissa Carter's Bio Melissa Carter is the founder of "IGNITE WITH MELISSA", LLC. She holds an MBA and is a former music industry corporate executive turned Life Empowerment and Strategy Coach. After years of morbid obesity preventing her from tying her own shoes, depression, failed relationships, and a core belief system of not being "good enough," Melissa embarked on a 150-pound weight loss journey that inspired a career and life transformation. Melissa recreated her whole life from the inside out.  Facing her deepest fears, demons, and past through her Believe.Commit.Live  process she rewrote and rewired her thought patterns, self care practice and belief system that now supports her living a powerful life. A life of purpose, love, abundance and contribution. She now pays forward what she believes is a second chance at life through her Life Empowerment and Strategy coaching practice. Through her three-step approach to life, Melissa is confident that you can transform YOUR life to be anything you want as long as you BELIEVE.COMMIT.LIVE with love, integrity, dedication, and gratitude and of course a KEEP IT REAL and POSITIVE attitude.  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Koki Adasi is a motivated and dedicated real estate agent. In 2008, Koki was recognized by REALTOR Magazine as one of the thirty most talented, up-and-coming realtors in the U.S. In 2009 he provided real estate expertise on CNN's The Situation Room and NPR, and in 2010 he appeared on an episode of HGTV's television show House Hunters. Since that time Koki has lent his expertise to several different media outlets including: Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine, The Gazette and Real Estate Radio. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Koki several questions, including: 01:30 What are you most grateful for right now? 03:15 Why are you passionate about the work you're doing in real estate? 06:00 What have been some of the biggest lessons you've learned as a real estate agent? 07:15 How do you define success? 09:00 What have been some of the basics steps you've been practicing in the last 6 months to a year, that have helped you pave the way for the success you're now experiencing? 11:20 Why are people choosing to do business with Koki & Associates? Why do you think they're paying you and your team for your services versus choosing to work with another agent? What sets you apart? 15:00 Tell us a story about one road block, challenge, or fear that you experienced? What happened and what did you do to overcome it and move forward?? 18:30 Do you have coaches or mentors today who help to guide you & your business and hold you accountable toward achieving your goals?? 20:10 At what point did you decide on seeking out coaches & mentors? Why do you think you are able to produce at a higher level because of your coach & mentors?? 21:45 Koki shares his amazing journey & lessons learned from basketball Links and resources mentioned: Kokiisthekey.com Koki on Twitter Koki on LinkedIn Koki's Fav Resources: Instagram Koki's Fav Books: The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod The Success Principles(TM) - 10th Anniversary Edition: How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be by Jack Canfield  Koki Adasi's Bio Koki Adasi is a motivated and dedicated real estate agent who places customer satisfaction as his number one priority. Having grown up in the DC area -- attending Magruder High School and Mount Saint Mary's University -- Koki is perfectly situated to provide professional guidance and area knowledge to his clients. He first entered the real estate business in 2006 while looking for a career that would allow him to combine two of his passions: people and real estate. In 2008, Koki was recognized by REALTOR Magazine as one of the thirty most talented, up-and-coming realtors in the U.S., in 2009 he provided real estate expertise on CNN's The Situation Room and NPR, and in 2010 he appeared on an episode of HGTV's television show House Hunters. Since that time Koki has lent his expertise to several different media outlets including: Washington Post, Washingtonian, The Gazette and Real Estate Radio. He currently is on the Board of Directors for the Greater Capitol Area Association of REALTORSŽ and is Co-Chair for the National Association of REALTORSŽ Meetings and Conference Committee Outside of real estate, Koki's time is spent with his family, in volunteer activities or on the basketball court. He has served on the Board of Directors for YMCA Youth & Family Services since 2006, and was recognized by the Greater Capital Area YMCA as Philanthropist of the Year in 2011. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally,
Dr. Marquita M. Qualls has over 25 years of leadership experience in consulting, coaching, and motivating people who want to produce order out of their chaos. Though a scientist by training, she commands a masterful understanding of the human aspects needed to thrive in todayâs fast-paced and competitive business environment. She founded Entropia Consulting, a small management consulting firm that focuses on helping individuals become more productive and effective leaders. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Dr. Qualls several questions, including: What was your dream growing up? What inspired you to pursue a degree in Chemistry? What are some of the biggest lessons you learned about yourself during your years with Glaxo? Tell us about your transition from Glaxo to starting your own consulting business? What is the exact problem your clients are having and how are you able to help provide a solution through your coaching services? Share one of your road blocks that caused you to have to take a major detour. What happened and how did you overcome it and get back on track? How do you learn to love doing hard work you don't want to do? Why is learning a super power? What does successful leadership look like? What can we look forward to with you? Are there any big dreams and goals on your vision board for the next 5-10 years and beyond that you'd care to share with us? Links and resources mentioned: Marquita Qualls on Entropia Consuting Marquita Qualls on Twitter Marquita Qualls on LinkedIn Marquita's Fav Resources: Schedulista Marquita's Fav Book: Oh, The Places You'll Go!  Marquita M. Quall's Bio Marquita M. Qualls, Ph.D. has over 25 years of leadership experience in consulting, coaching, and motivating people who want to produce order out of their chaos. Dr. Qualls possesses the rare combination of strong technical ability and impressive soft skills. Though a scientist by training, she commands a masterful understanding of the human aspects needed to thrives in todayâs fast-paced and competitive business environment. Her technical side drives an ability to gather perspectives and analyze feedback, while at the same time connecting with clients and guiding them towards achieving results. This has enabled her to function and make seamless transitions between the scientific and non-technical worlds. She has a gift for listening to what's not being said and asks the probing questions to help you arrive at a solution. Her style is often described by her clients as energetic, engaging, and empowering. She understands what it takes to be an extraordinary leader. She is a former National President of a professional technical organization and was a member of the team that created the Leadership Development SystemÂŽ for the American Chemical Society, the world's largest scientific society. She has also served on the editorial advisory board of Chemical & Engineering News, The Chemical Science Roundtable of the National Academies, and an Entrepreneur in Residence with Innovate Mississippi . Dr. Qualls has consulted with teams and coached professionals within governmental, educational, corporate, and nonprofit sectors including the Department of Homeland Security, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Jackson State University, P&G, Purdue University, The Dow Chemical Company, and American Chemical Society, Association of Women in Science, NOBCChE and SACNAS. Dr. Quallsâ professional career was rooted at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the world. During nearly a decade at GSK, she held roles of increased global responsibility spanning drug development, technology evaluation, program management, strategy development, and people development. She founded Entropia Consulting, a small management consulting firm that focuses on helping individuals become more productive and effective leade...
Lorine Pendleton is a seasoned business development executive with extensive experience in the legal, internet/new media and entertainment industries. She is the US Director of Business Development for the largest global law firm in the world.  She is also an active angel investor who invests and advises women and minority-led companies. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, I asked Lorine these questions: What was your dream as a child? Did you always have dreams of being a lawyer? What are the biggest things you learned about yourself in your time at Londell McMillan PC? Why transition from being a practicing attorney to your present role with Dentons? Do you have mentors today? When did you begin learning about the process of being an investor? Explain what an angel investor is and does? What are the most important metrics that you're looking for as an angel and that help you decide whether you're going to take action and invest with a founder? How do you keep from falling into and getting stuck in comfort zones with work? What do you do to push yourself to new and higher heights? Share a couple fundamental lessons that black women and minority founders need to know, to grow their business and raise funds. 00:00 -  What can we look forward to with you? Are there any big dreams and goals on your vision board for the next 10 years and beyond that you'd care to share with us? Lorine shares 8 alternate sources to seek funding beyond traditional angel / venture capital (V.C.) funding: Government Grants Small Business Research Innovation Program Business Technology Transfer Program Economic Development Agencies Startup Competitions Verizon Powerful Answers Competition Startup Accelerator Programs Crowd Funding Websites Links and resources mentioned: Lorine Pendleton on Twitter Lorine Pendleton on LinkedIn Lorine's article on Black Enterprise Lorine - AngelList Lorine's Fav Resources: Evernote Lorine's Fav Book: The Startup Checklist: 25 Steps to a Scalable, High-Growth Business; Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?: How Reginald Lewis Created a Billion-Dollar Business Empire  Lorine Pendleton's Bio Lorine Pendlenton is a seasoned business development executive with extensive experience in the legal, internet/new media and entertainment industries.  She is the US Director of Business Development for the largest global law firm in the world.  She previously worked at Simpson Thacher, one of the oldest and most prestigious law firms in the US.  Previous stints include working at a number of startups such as SelectMinds, developer of web-based social network programs for corporations acquired by Oracle and Community Connect, the publisher of the leading ethnic social networking websites BlackPlanet, AsianAvenue, and MiGente, acquired by Interactive One. She is a former practicing attorney at Londell McMillan PC, a leading entertainment boutique law firm, where she structured and negotiated multifaceted entertainment and media deals on behalf of her clients such as Prince, Spike Lee, Ruff Ryders Records, Faith Evans, Stevie Wonder and Chaka Khan. Lorine is an active angel investor who invests and advises women and minority led companies.  Her portfolio includes Cisse Trading, Traklight, Hire an Esquire and Nextwave Rising Tide Fund.  She is an alumna of Pipeline Angels, an angel investing bootcamp which trains women to become angel investors and increase diversity in the US angel investing community. Lorine served on the board of directors for the National Black Programming Consortium, which provides funds and distributes films and TB programs relating to African Americans with principal funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting/PBS. She also served on the board of Living Labs Foundation, which organized the TEDxHarlem conference in Harlem in 2012.
Indigo Ocean Dutton is the founder of Aspiratech, Awaken Business Consulting, and Phone Buddies Peer Counseling Community. She is the author of Being Bliss and Micro Habits for Major Happiness. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Indigo and I discussed: 03:00 -  Whether there was any significance or meaning to the name Indigo Ocean 04:00 -  Her life's story leading up to her time spent in Bali 09:00 -  What provided the winning mindset to achieve so much after leaving Bali 13:45 -  How she went from being a 1099 business consulting contractor making $23/hr, moved up to $75/hr and then jumped ship to running her own show and getting a $300k contract inside of 2 years 25:00 -  What gets her out of her comfort zone and reaching for new and higher heights 29:30 -  She shares two (2) effective foundation steps every new entrepreneurs must get right Links and resources mentioned: Indigo's Website Indigo Ocean on LinkedIn Indigo Ocean on Twitter Indigo Ocean on YouTube Indigo's Fav Book: The Power of Myths by Joseph Campbell Indigo Ocean's Bio Indigo Ocean Dutton, MA is the founder of the Aspiratech corporate business technology consulting and training firm and Awaken Business Consulting business development programs for spiritually oriented entrepreneurs. Indigo is also the founder of the Phone Buddies Peer Counseling Community, one of her service projects. She is also the author of Being Bliss and Micro Habits for Major Happiness. Indigo received her MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the CA Institute of Integral Studies and her BA in International Commerce from Brown University. Indigoâs background working with youths stretches over several decades. Most recently she has taught meditation to incarcerated teenagers as an instructor at Mind, Body Awareness Institute, developed and taught a teen entrepreneur development workshop at Berkeley Youth Alternatives, and served on the Board of Directors of Future Leaders Institute. Before returning to CA in 2007, Indigo worked as a school based Behavioral Health Specialist for the state of Hawaii. Indigo began volunteering in her teens, creating a county Youth Council at the age of 15 and a summer crafts camp for younger children later that same year. She has been a dance teacher, land trust community builder, and radio talk show host, among her many work/service endeavors over the years. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Kelly Leonard is a speaker, trainer, award-winning CEO, and former Fortune 500 Vice President. A certified public accountant (CPA-inactive) and corporate trainer with over twenty-five years serving government, non-profit, private and public industries [including Fortune 100], Kelly has an innate ability to connect with diverse audiences across disciplines. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Some of the questions I asked Kelly: 06:00 -  Was being an entrepreneur and business woman your dream as a kid? 08:00 -  What were some of the big lessons you learned about business and about yourself [as a CPA]? 10:00 -  Take us through the transition from CPA to CEO of your own company? How did that unfold and over what period? 13:40 -  Are there any rituals or routines that help to sharpen your mind and keep you grounded? 14:45 -  Is Taylor Leonard Corporation more of a lifestyle brand? 16:00 -  Could you share with us one of your road blocks that caused you to have to take a major detour.  Tell us about that challenging time, what happened and how you were able to overcome it and get back on track? 20:00 -  How has family had an effect on shaping the business woman that you are today? 21:45 -  Why is LinkedIn so valuable for those that learn to use it effectively? 24:15 -  What could we put into practice today to make LinkedIn more effective for us? Links and resources mentioned: Taylor Leonard Corporation Website Kelly Leonard on LinkedIn Kelly Leonard on Twitter Kelly's Fav Book: The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson; How To Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie Kelly Leonard's Bio Kelly Leonard is a speaker, trainer, award-winning CEO, and former Fortune 500 Vice President. A certified public accountant (CPA-inactive) and corporate trainer with over twenty-five years serving government, non-profit, private and public industries [including Fortune 100], Kelly has an innate ability to connect with diverse audiences across disciplines. Prior to becoming CEO of Taylor-Leonard Corporation (T-LC), Kelly held leadership positions with GE Capital, Kaiser Permanente, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Currently, Kelly oversees T-LC's [LinkedIn] training and business development practices. Kelly has personally trained 5,000+ participants using the same methodologies that resulted in her firm generating $500,000+ in new consulting revenue in their core IT competency (Customer Relationship Management) within the first 24 months of strategy implementation. Although Taylor-Leonard Corporationâs clients include government agencies, non-profits, and publicly traded companies, Kellyâs most passionate about leveraging the best practices of multinational enterprises to be a catalyst, compass, and connector of new business development and expansion for entrepreneurs and the small business community. Kelly is a wife and mother of two teenagers. In addition to serving as marriage mentors in their local church, Kelly and her husband, Jerome, are Area Developers for Nehemiah Project; a global non-profit organization whose mission is to build and equip kingdom businesses globally using Christian business training, education, and coaching tools.  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Keion Jackson is an Author and Senior Writer for Hallmark Cards.  He's also a playwright, having written and produced his first play, Gumbo House, that debuted in theaters in Kansas City, MO in March 2016.  Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: 01:30 -  His dream as a kid growing up in Port Allen, Louisiana 03:00 -  What Keion does in his day to day as a Senior Writer at Hallmark Cards 05:00 -  What inspired him to write his first play, Gumbo House 07:00 -  What he learned about himself in his first independent project with the play 09:00 -  What he does to keep from falling into comfort zones as a writer, having written for different mediums 10:30 -  Tips on how to avoid writer's block and produce something original, creative and worth reading 13:40 -  How faith influenced his career 15:00 -  How he got involved writing about faith and authoring a book for Hallmark Cards Links and resources mentioned: Keion's Hallmark Book, Because Jesus Shop from Keion's collection Keion Jackson on Twitter Keion's Fav Resources: RhymeZone.com, Thesaurus.com Keion's Fav Book: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi A portion of Gumbo House proceeds was donated to lowernine.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the long-term recovery of the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans, Louisiana in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the levee breaches of 2005.  Keion Jackson's Bio Keion Jackson is an author of the Hallmark book, Because Jesus.  He is a Senior Writer for Hallmark's Creative Writing Studios, where he's been employed since graduating from Clark Atlanta University in 2008.  Keion is originally from Port Allen, Louisiana, and has a twin sister.  He knew from a very young age that he was meant to be a writer. Keion was selected by Hallmark, to write about his faith.  But that said, he's a very creative, extremely funny, down to earth guy that you immediately feel like you know. Keion is also a playwright, and wrote / produced his first play, Gumbo House, directed by Teresa Leggard, in March 2016 in Kansas City, MO.  Keion is also now working through his first documentary on christian hip hop.  We are excited and can't wait to see both his play in a theater near us and hopefully his documentary on Netflix in the next year or so.  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Tiffany Hardin developed Gild Creative Group, a consultation firm providing cultural engagement activation strategies for brands & advertisers. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: 04:30 -  What provided her a winning mindset on such a big stage 09:15 -  What inspired her to start her own consulting firm 12:30 -  Gild Creative Group and what she does as the Cultural Engagement Strategist 19:30 -  Mentors that are helping guide her forward 20:30 -  How family affected her entrepreneurial journey 22:15 -  Some of the biggest lessons she learned while building Gild 25:20 -  Fears of failing to achieve set goals or responsibilities that follow 28:30 -  How she keeps herself from falling into comfort zones with her work 31:20 -  2 things Tiffany is working on right now as part of her future vision/goals Links and resources mentioned: Tiffany Hardin's Website Gild Creative Group She Knows Now Tiffany on Twitter Tiffany's Fav App: Weather App Tiffany's Fav Book: Million Dollar Women: The Essential Guide for Female Entrepreneurs Who Want to Go Big Tiffany Hardin Bio Tiffany Hardin developed Gild Creative Group, a consultation firm providing cultural engagement activation strategies for brands & advertisers such as Mother Industries, Civic Entertainment and Doner Agency. Additionally, she consults creative talents such as media savant, Karen Civil, fashion expert, Vanessa Simmons, and, hip hop artist, Kris Kasanova on developing their brand as a business, as well as, developing key brand partnerships. Dedicated to paying it forward, she is also an adjunct professor at NYU- Clive Davis School of Recorded Music. Hardin is the founder of She Knows Now, a platform dedicated to collecting and sharing the insights of confident, driven women who share what they each know for sure. She served on the boards of SoundCtrl, Music Unites, Council of Urban Professionals, and AdColor, and, currently serves on the leadership board of Live in The Grey. She is an avid speaker on Influencer Marketing, Women in Entrepreneurship, Music & Branding, Social Media Marketing, and Music/Tech at conferences such as Social Media Week, Internet Week, SXSW, AdColor and Adweek. Hardin had previously held positions at Violator Management, Monami Entertainment and Translation LLC prior to her entrepreneurial endeavors. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn PHOTO CREDIT: SAM TEICH
Dr. Jason Carthen is a former NFL football player for the New England Patriots and a highly sought-after international speaker in the areas of leadership, motivation and identifying your purpose in life. He has delivered his own unique brand of inspiration, passion and practical ideas to people in over 1000 audiences worldwide. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: 05:00 -  Dr. Jason's dream as a kid 06:00 -  Lessons learned playing under New England Patriots Coach Bill Parcells 09:00 -  Difficulty letting go of football and pivoting to the next chapter of his life 12:00 -  Mentors that guided him through his transitional years after football 13:00 -  What Dr. Jason attributes to his tremendous success today 14:45 -  How family factors into his entrepreneurial endeavors 17:30 -  What Dr. Jason does to keep pushing forward to new and higher heights 19:30 -  Steps someone starting over or pivoting needs to know 36:45 -  4 foundations for success Links and resources mentioned: Jason Carthen Website Dr. Jason on Instagram Dr. Jason on Twitter Dr. Jason's Facebook Page Send a text "ispeaklife" to 38470, to sign up to his daily quotes Jason's Fav Apps: Evernote, ScreenFlow Jason's Fav Books: MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom, 52 Ways to Tackle Leadership for Your Success!: Lessons in Leadership and Life (Lessons for Leadership and Life Book Series) (Volume 1) Jason Carthen, Ph.D. Bio Known as The Leadership Linebacker⢠Dr. Jason Carthen is a former professional football player for the New England Patriots and a highly sought-after international speaker in the areas of leadership, motivation and identifying your purpose in life. He has delivered his own unique brand of inspiration, passion and practical ideas to people in over 1000 audiences worldwide. He is the Founder of Speak Life Universityâ˘, which provides Business & Leadership Development programs for anyone interested in increasing their capacity to influence others positively through exceptional leadership. A prolific author, Dr. Jason has written over 150 articles and published three books related to leadership, business and personal development. His fourth highly anticipated book, Destiny Focused Leadership⢠details the key behavioral traits of successful leaders that want to live and leave a legacy for their followers. He is also the author of several best-selling Online Courses addressing Leadership, Business and Sales strategy. No matter where he may be speaking or who his audience may be, the foundation of Dr. Jasonâs message remains the same. You can achieve any goal, you can overcome any obstacle and you can find solutions to your toughest challenges by suspending your beliefs about what is possible and what is not when it comes to achieving your Destiny! Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Shawn Dove serves as the CEO of the Campaign for Black Male Achievement (CBMA), a national membership organization dedicated to ensuring the growth, sustainability and impact of leaders and organizations focused on improving the life outcomes of Americaâs Black men and boys.  Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: 05:45 -  Shawn's dream as a young black child 08:05 -  Who Shawn describes as his most valuable mentor growing up in New York 10:30 -  CBMA's back story and what he does in his day to day role 15:35 -  The biggest lessons he learned about himself in the process of growing CBMA 20:00 -  How great leaders can continue to have vision and be successful 24:00 -  Shawn's blind spots as a leader 26:00 -  Why it's so important to lead with generosity in your relationships 29:00 -  What to do when speaking publicly, to make ourselves unforgettable 32:30 -  What he'd do if he were the head of our nation's educational system 36:40 -  The effects of being a husband and father of 4 children on his career journey 47:00 -  Shawn's inspiring poem: "Discover your G-Spot and Become a Gold Digger" Links and resources mentioned: Campaign for Black Male Achievement Shawn on Twitter Shawn's Fav App: Apple's Podcast App Shawn's Fav Book: Think and Grow Rich: A Black Choice - Dennis Kimbro Shawn's Bio Shawn Dove serves as the CEO of the Campaign for Black Male Achievement (CBMA), a national membership organization dedicated to ensuring the growth, sustainability and impact of leaders and organizations focused on improving the life outcomes of Americaâs Black men and boys. Started by the Open Society Foundations in 2008 as the nationâs largest philanthropic initiative on this issue, Doveâs leadership has propelled CBMA into becoming an independent entity, growing its membership to more than 4,000 leaders representing over 2,000 organizations nation-wide. For more than a decade, Dove has demonstrated catalytic leadership in helping to establish and develop the field of Black Male Achievement. He has served as a lead organizer of the Executivesâ Alliance to Expand Opportunities for Boys & Young Men of Color; brokered a partnership between Open Society Foundations, Bloomberg Philanthropies and the City of New York to launch the NYC Young Menâs Initiative; and helped seed the launch of the White Houseâs My Brotherâs Keeper Initiative. Under Doveâs direction, CBMAâs efforts led to the creation of the nationâs first-ever Black Male Achievement fellowship for social entrepreneurs in partnership with Echoing Green, and he played a key role in the formation of Cities United, a national strategy that facilitates partnerships between mayors, municipal leaders and community-based organizations to eliminate violent deaths of Black men and boys in over 70 cities. Prior to heading up the Campaign for Black Male Achievement, Dove held over 20 years of leadership experience as a youth development professional, community-builder and advocate for children and families. He began his professional career as Executive Director of The DOME Project, a NYC-based youth development organization, then went on to become Director of Youth Ministries for First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, NJ, where he managed the 7,000-member institutionâs youth development initiatives, strategic partnerships and cross-ministry collaborations. Dove also served as the New York Vice President for MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership, during which time he successfully doubled the organizationâs membership of mentoring programs and created The Male Mentoring Project, a city-wide public awareness and recruitment strategy to grow more African American and Latino male mentors in New York City. As Creative Communities Director for the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts, Dove led and managed the technical assistance,
Host Stephen Hart shares a unique story and discusses the 5 core themes evident in the first fourteen interviews of the podcast. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Today's Show Notes: It was on my heart today to share a story with you all to set the stage for what I wanted you to take away most from today's episode. This story was originally told by a man by the name of Dr. Russell Herman Conwell, and he told this story more than 6,000 times all around the world. Dr. Conwell went on to become the founder of Temple University in Philadelphia. I was introduced to Dr. Conwell by his now famous inspirational lecture, Acres of Diamonds, and it has inspired me in so many ways and I'd like to take a couple minutes at the beginning of this episode today, to share a brief summary of this inspiring story with you. This is a true story of a persian farmer named Ali Hafed who was a wealthy man.  One day Ali Hafed heard tales about the exciting stories of other African settlers who had made millions by discovering diamond mines.  Now after he had heard all about diamonds, & how much they were worth ... he quickly became discontented.  Realizing the African continent was rich in diamonds, the farmer became determined to have a mine of diamonds for himself and so he sold his farm, left his family and went in search of diamonds. Ali Hafed spent the rest of his life wondering Africa and Europe, searching for diamonds without success.  Finally, broke and desperate, he threw himself into a tidal wave in Barcelona and drowned. Meanwhile, the man who had purchased Ali Hafed's farm, one day led his camel into the garden to find water to drink and as the camel put its nose into the shallow waters of that garden's brook, he found a large and unusual black stone in the stream which cut through the property.  It turned out to be a great diamond of enormous value.  and then he'd discovered that his farm was covered with all sorts of beautiful and valuable gems.  It was to become one of the world's richest diamond mines of all time.  the largest diamonds on earth came from that mine. You see, Ali Hafed had owned literally acres of diamonds but had sold them for practically nothing, to go in search of them elsewhere. If Ali Hafed had only taken the time to study, to know what diamonds looked like in their rough state, and thoroughly explored his land, his gardens and the streams he owned, he would have had the millions he sought, right on the land he'd been living on. The message of this story, that I hope to impart to you today is that each of you listening today, is at this moment, standing in your own acres of diamonds. Together, we have heard so far from 14 trailblazers who are each experiencing success in their own lives.  They are each successfully mining their own acres of diamonds. If we can extract some wisdom from those interviews and have the patience to intelligently and effectively explore how that can be applied to the work we are doing today, we will most definitely find the riches we seek, whether financial or intangible or both. As Earle Nightingale once said on this very topic: "Before we go running off to what we think are greener pastures, let's make sure that our own is not just as green, or perhaps even greener.  while we are looking at other pastures, other people are looking at ours." Somewhere within the work you are doing today, there lurks an opportunity which could bring you everything you could possibly want for yourself and your family. I hope that these past 14 weeks have blessed you, as much as it's been a blessing to me.  I would never have guessed that in the first 3 months of this podcast,  we would have had an opportunity to talk with so many brilliant and amazing trailblazers who have pushed through their biggest failures and challenges to experience success. In the past few days, I discovered that the Trailblazers Podcast has already been download...
Clarence Wooten is a Serial Entrepreneur, Investor and Public Speaker in Palo Alto, California. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Clarence Wooten's Bio Clarence Wooten is a serial internet entrepreneur who has been creating and building Internet startups since 1998. Back then he co-founded and was CEO of ImageCafe.com, an online superstore of pre-fabricated websites for small businesses. ImageCafe was acquired for $23 million by Network Solutions/Verisign in November 1999, 7-months after launch and just before the dot com bubble popped. After being an entrepreneur based in Maryland his entire career, Clarence moved to Palo Alto, CA in early 2011 -- to the heart of Silicon Valley, with the goal of doing it bigger and better. In pursuit of this goal, he recently founded VentureFund.io where he serves as CEO; and co-founded Progressly where he serves as Chairman. VentureFund.io is a real-time traction marketplace that makes it easy for founders to build relationships with investors simply by sharing a live-feed of their startup's growth data. Our goal is to reduce selection bias and make access to capital performance driven. Clarence is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and was honored as a distinguished alumnus in 2010. In this episode, we discussed: 03:18 -  What Clarence does in his day to day roles at VentureFund.io and Progressly 05:18 -  Why he's enjoying the work he's currently doing 06:00 -  Who inspired his direction to go into business and investing 07:27 -  The biggest lessons he learned as a business owner over nearly 20 years in business 09:45 -  A story about an early roadblock on his career journey that almost tanked his business and how Clarence pushed through 11:35 -  When he began learning about the investor side and the process of becoming an investor 14:45 -  Explained what VentureFund.io is and does 15:50 -  Clarence defines "startups" 16:45 -  Explained the Traditional (TVR) and Traction methods for raising assets for  your startup 22:15 -  What might be contributing most to businesses that are failing 23:50 -  How he keeps pushing himself to new and higher heights Links and resources mentioned: ClarenceWooten.com Clarence Wooten on Twitter VentureFund.io Progressly Clarence's Tool:  Techmeme.com Clarence's Fav Book: Once You're Lucky, Twice You're Good: The Rebirth of Silicon Valley and the Rise of Web 2.0 Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Everette Taylor, Founder and CEO of MilliSense, also leads Growth and Marketing at Microsoft.  Previously, Everette was the Chief Marketing Officer for Sticker Mule, and also started the business website GrowthHackers. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: 04:00 - Everette's inspiration to begin his own marketing firm 04:55 - Who mentored him in his formative years in business 05:53 - Some of the lessons he's learning right now while building MilliSense 07:15 - He talked about a past challenge with GrowthHackers and what he did to overcome that 09:00 - We discussed why product market fit is so important to young businesses 10:00 - He shared some insight on growth hacks for social media 12:00 - What small business owners can begin to do to build their social media communities 14:35 - We also talked about how he stays motivated and keeps from getting stuck in comfort zones 15:20 - What is on Everette's vision board for the next 10 years? Links and resources mentioned: EveretteTaylor.com Everette on Twitter Everette on Instagram Google Analytics Kissmetrics Everette's Fav App: Google Analytics Everette's Fav Book: Hooked by Nir Eyal & Ryan Hoover Everette's Bio Today, I'm pumped to finally have Everette Taylor on the podcast. He is a young, powerful influencer, Entrepreneur and Marketing Executive.  Presently, he is Founder and CEO of MilliSense (named after his mother Millicent) and leads growth and marketing for new projects at Microsoft. Throughout his career, Everette has maintained a strong track record of helping companies grow through creative data-driven marketing. He has been called a"marketing genius" by Forbes, a "marketing star" by Fortune Magazine, a "visionary businessman" by The Huffington Post, and "an innovator who's changing the consumer marketing game" by Black Enterprise. Everette formerly served as Chief Marketing Officer for the popular e-commerce company Sticker Mule and also started the business website GrowthHackers with renown entrepreneur Sean Ellis and led marketing for the platform, taking it from zero to a thriving community that catapults the ideas and strategies of today's marketers to help them think outside of the box and establish their value in the industry. Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Candace Mitchell, CEO and Co-Founder of Techturized, Inc., is a 2016 Forbes 30 under 30 recipient, and a business woman that's pushing hard to make her signature brand, Myavana, a household name among women of all ethnicities. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Candace's Bio Candace Mitchell is Co-Âfounder and CEO of Techturized Inc., a highÂ-tech hair company based in Atlanta, GA. Their first product, Myavana, is a personalized hair care service that recommends products and services based on scientific analysis of consumerâs hair type and texture. She was recently named on the 2016 Forbes 30 Under 30 list in the category of Retail and EÂ-Commerce. She graduated from Georgia Tech in 2011 with a B.S. in Computer Science. Her technology background includes undergraduate research in IT security and human computer interaction. Sheâs a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and leverages her passion for education to inspire youth to pursue STEM fields. Sheâs worked for Fortune 500 companies such as Siemens and PepsiCo, yet after a year in Corporate America, she decided to follow her dreams and vision of becoming an entrepreneur. The company has participated in the top startup accelerators in the country, DreamIt Ventures and Flashpoint @ Georgia Tech, and placed 1st in pitch competitions at SXSW Interactive, Technology Association of Georgia Business Launch, Shark Pitch Atlanta, PowerMoves NOLA, DREAM Project 2013 Conference, and landed a finalist spot at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference and the Southland Conference sponsored by Silicon Valley publication PandoDaily. They have been featured nationally on âThe Realâ daytime talk show, Forbes Magazine, MSNBCâs Melissa Harris ÂPerry show, ESSENCE magazine, Ebony Magazine, Black Enterprise, and Business Insider. Here's a sneak peek into today's episode: #BlackGirlMagic @candyvmitchell a @forbes 30under30 CEO shares her brand @Myavanahairhttps://t.co/FAhUNWgX2S pic.twitter.com/H091rlDVQb â Trailblazers Podcast (@tbpod) April 21, 2016 In this episode, we discussed: 04:30 -  What inspired her to go from a degree in Computer Science, to getting into entrepreneurship and starting her own business 08:10 -  How Candace transitioned from a full time in  corporate to making her startup a full time commitment 11:20 -  How business and personal mentors have help her grow and keep on track 14:05 -  How Candace went about getting capital to start the business and her advice to other entrepreneurs on preparing for that 16:10 -  Candace discusses the process of knowing your market through customer discovery 18:00 -  She shared a failure in business that helped her growth as an entrepreneur and leader 23:20 -  Getting into the 2016 Forbes 30 under 30 and what that's meant for her brand 25:15 -  How she's managed to market the brand in cost effective ways 28:45 -  What young girls and women with an interest in STEM can do to equip themselves for success Links and resources mentioned: Myavana.com CandaceVictoria.com Candace on Twitter Indra Nooyi - Chairman and CEO, PepsiCo Candace's Fav App: Google Calendar Candace's Fav Book: Super Rich by Russel Simmons Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
C. David Moody, Jr, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of C.D. Moody Construction Company, Inc., a Black Enterprise BE 100s listed company for several consecutive years.  Mr. Moody is a graduate of both Morehouse College and Howard University.  Today, he runs one of Atlanta's top private companies, responsible for helping build several iconic landmarks. Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we also discussed: 04:30 -  Mr. Moody's experiences at both Morehouse College and Howard University 08:20 -  His plans and preparation before going into business for himself 09:35 -  The 10 lessons he learned while navigating the challenges and failures of running a business 10:20 -  How he overcame challenges of construction 12:45 -  What he attributes to his success and the success of his business 15:20 - What is success for him approaching 60 years of age 16:00 -  How he got his family to buy into his big dreams 18:00 -  What contributes to the high percentage of businesses today that are failing 21:00 -  What new business owners need to know to lay a better foundation to grow and succeed in business 22:30 -  Mr. Moody being abused as a child 23:30 -  How he fought through the decades of fear and finally got to a point where he could share his secret  with the world 29:20 -  His goals for Moody Speaks 32:10 -  An inspiring message of HOPE Mr. Moody was so humble and inspiring throughout this talk.  Here is a man who has accomplished so much, yet he came across as someone who felt blessed, and still appears to be hungry and eager to keep pushing toward his goals.  I especially loved his input on his idea of success as he nears 60, and how that's different than what he considered success in his 20s, 30s, 40s. Of course, this interview covered so much more than business, and I was delighted that I had this opportunity to help him share his platform for reaching out to the survivors of childhood abuse.  I learned a great deal in the process, and I firmly believe that this interview can and will help business professionals, business owners, survivors of abuse, and so many more. Links and resources mentioned: C.D. Moody Construction Company website Moody Speaks website David Moody on Instagram David Moody on Twitter David's Fav Book: The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge by Tony Dungy David's Bio Charles David Moody, Jr. is the President and Chief Executive Officer of C.D. Moody Construction Company, Inc. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Mr. Moody lived there until he was 14 years old. At that time, his family moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where the University of Michigan employed his father. Mr. Moody graduated from Huron High School in 1974 and received his B.S. in Psychology from Morehouse College in 1978. After receiving his Bachelor of Architecture and five year professional degree from Howard University in 1981, he returned to Ann Arbor to work as an architect/field engineer for Bechtel Power Corporation. While in Ann Arbor, he also taught structural design and mechanical systems at Washtenaw Community College. In 1983, Mr. Moody relocated to Atlanta. In 1986, he completed his first project at Dobbins Air Force Base for the bonding company, after the untimely death of his employer, George Brown. At that point, Mr. Moody decided to establish his own firm. The first project of C.D. Moody Construction Company, Inc. was a joint venture with Otis Bellamy, of Bellamy Brothers, on the Underground Atlanta project in 1987. Since then, C.D. Moody Construction Company has grown from $1 million to over $70 million in annual revenues. C.D. Moody Construction Company has been ranked in the Black Entreprise Top 100 list for several consecutive years as one of the Nation's largest black owned businesses. The company provides a wide range of construction services including design/build, new construction, renovation,
Professor Monica F. Cox Ph.D. is the Inaugural Chair of recently created Department of Engineering Education at The Ohio State University. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Summary Bio: Dr. Monica Cox is a Professor and the Inaugural Chair in the Department of Engineering Education at The Ohio State University Her research is focused on the use of mixed methodologies to explore significant research questions in undergraduate, graduate, and professional engineering education; to explore issues of intersectionality among women, particularly Women of Color in engineering; and to develop, disseminate, and commercialize reliable and valid assesment tools for use across the engineering education continuum. In 2011, she became the first African American woman to earn tenure in the College of Engineering at Purdue University In 2008 she also earned a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), which is the highest honor bestowed by the US Government on outstanding scientists and engineers Monica is the Founder and CEO or Prepared to Be A Pioneer, where she serves as a speaker and consultant Here's a sneak peek of what's inside today's episode: Prof Monica F. Cox Ph.D is such an amazing, yet approachable Pioneer for Women in #STEMhttps://t.co/ioadq3pWqj pic.twitter.com/nIZMgqVATA â Trailblazers Podcast (@tbpod) April 20, 2016 In this episode, we discussed: 04:00 -  The point she recognized her interest in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) 05:00 -  Her early stage mentors, including her parents and professors at Spelman College 06:50 -  Her strategic approach to attaining the degrees she did and her desire to become a University President since the age of 19 07:45 -  We spoke about her new job at Ohio State and what her day to day there is like right now 10:15 -  We talked about perseverance and how she was able to push ahead through some of her road blocks as a pioneer 15:45 -  How often she looks at her goals and tracking them 17:20 -  We talked about what we as a community and for those of us as parents, can begin doing to expose our children to S.T.E.M. Links and resources mentioned: Prepared to Be a Pioneer website Monica Cox on Twitter Dr. Cox's Fav Book: Rework by Jason Fried Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! [Photo credit belongs to Brent Russell] Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Clarence Bethea is the Founder and CEO of Upsie.  The Upsie app and platform protects your devices and appliances at affordable prices. Their mobile app is revolutionizing the warranty industry. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Clarence's Summary Bio: Clarence is the Founder & CEO of Upsie, which is a free mobile app that now gives us the power of making warranty decisions directly to the consumer Clarence has worked with several startups and Fortune 500 companies & previously helped launch other ventures, including 2nd Chance Staffing; 43 Hoop and Gravelick He had this frustrating laptop warranty experience, and realized there was a significant opportunity to reinvent the warranty industry. And so using his wealth of business knowledge and new found passion for improving the warranty experience, he worked to make warranty purchasing simple, fun and educational for consumers. Hear a sneak peak of Clarence in this episode: 'When you surround yourself with #winners you just start to win' @clarence_bethea @UpsieHQ https://t.co/XkDLKHEFJe pic.twitter.com/8JBowX09rZ â Trailblazers Podcast (@tbpod) April 24, 2016 In this episode, we discussed: What inspired Clarence to get into entrepreneurship What he was doing prior to Upsie and how his prior failure helped his start with Upsie His process to go about raising funds to get Upsie started Talked about a fear he had getting Upsie going and how Clarence overcame it How he's been able to bring brand awareness to Upsie The effect of family on his life and business How Clarence keeps motivated and out of comfort zones Why it's important to volunteer & give back Much more Links and resources mentioned: Upsie website Upsie on Twitter Upsie Discount Code: Twitter15 Clarence's Fav Book: The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Tyvi Small is the Director of Diversity & Community Relations, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Tyvi's Summary Bio: My guest on today's episode is Tyvi Small, the Director of Diversity & Community Relations at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.  His advice in this session, will help you with building diverse connections, overcoming fears, developing relationships and he also shares the importance of blooming where you are planted and mentoring & sponsoring others in our community. Tyvi graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Communications and a Master's Degree in Education He's currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Prior to his time in Knoxville, he was the Education Coordinator and Assistant to the Mayor for the City of West Palm Beach, FL Tyvi is also very involved in his community: He serves on the board of directors of the Knoxville Area Urban League and Leadership Knoxville He's an active member and board member of the Knoxville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. He's also a board member of the Development Corporation of Knox County  In this episode, we discussed: 03:30 -  What Tyvi does within his role at the University 09:15 -  His advice on getting a board of directors, mentors and sponsors 11:15 -  An example of how his sponsor, Phyllis Nichols, helped his growth by connecting him with others of influence 19:40 -  Tyvi's fear of public speaking and how he overcame it 21:00 -  Lessons he learned from Susan Packard, Co-Founder of HGTV at the Women in Business Summit 28:50 -  The two people he'd most like to have dinner with, alive or from the history books 33:00 -  How the decision to attend college turned into a defining moment on his journey 34:45 -  Dr. Samuel Wright's influence on us both attending the University of South Florida 35:25 -  Some of the things Tyvi does to keep from getting stuck in comfort zones 36:45 -  Setting, writing and looking at your goals and getting accountability partners to realize your goals 39:20 -  Fundamental lessons to lead his team 46:20 -  Why it's important to volunteer & give back 47:00 -  Blooming where you're planted [47:00] Links and resources mentioned: Tyvi Small - University of Tennessee page Tyvi's Fav Books: The Go-Giver, Expanded Edition: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea Leadership Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Craig The BarberÂŽ is Founder and Editor-In-Chief of TheMensRoom.com, and Hollywood's top source for men's grooming needs. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Craig The Barber's Summary Bio: On this episode, I was thrilled to interview a dear friend, Craig Whitely, known to the world as Craig The BarberÂŽ. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of TheMensRoom.com. Craig the BarberÂŽ is Hollywoodâs top source for menâs grooming needs. He's worked with several prestigious salons and barbershops in the Los Angeles area where his clientele grew to include many of Hollywoodâs most famous faces and names He's lent his services to events such as Diddyâs annual 4th of July âWhite Partyâ and Michael Jordanâs Celebrity Golf Tournament He's a frequent contributor to Menâs Health magazine Craig has served as the spokesperson for two global brands, Lab Series by Estee Lauder and Philips Norelco, He creates, produces and hosts exclusive how-to videos for eHow⢠Style, He is a contributing educator to the Paul Mitchell Schools and he has flown around the world to consult with corporations and host consumer events His baby though, TheMensRoom.com, is a site dedicated to the art of barbering and style for men Without a doubt, a very accomplished professional and an all around great person, who I'm excited to have had, to share some of his wisdom with us. In this episode, we discussed: 04:30 -  When he first discovered his desire to become a master barber 07:40 -  Why he didn't pursue barbering straight out of college 09:45 -  Whether he's more afraid of failing to achieve a goal he set OR being more afraid of the larger responsibilities that came if he achieved those goals 11:00 -  Something he feared on his journey that he had to overcome to experience growth in his business and what he did to overcome those fears 14:15 -  The point he moved from being a barber in a shop to becoming a registered trademark & grooming expert 19:30 -  How/why he built themensroom.com and his social media community 24:00 -  His routines and daily rituals 26:00 -  A failure on his journey, how he overcame it and got back on track 31:00 -  A defining moment on his journey 33:30 -  What social media has done for his brand 35:10 -  How he keeps from getting stuck in a comfort zone 37:30 -  How he manages goals & holds himself accountable to achieving goals 40:20 -  A book he's read in the past year that inspired him 40:45 -  Something small he's done that he's proud of 42:30 -  An online resource he uses everyday 43:10 -  Why it's important to volunteer & give back 44:10 -  His inspiring message to motivate us Links and resources mentioned: Craig The Barber website TheMensRoom.com Craig The Barber on Facebook Craig's Fav Book: Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe / Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Dalen Spratt is the Co-Founder and Owner of Loren Spratt, a company that specializes in both film and fashion.  He's most notable for his role on Destination America's hit show, GhostBrothers. Listen on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn In this episode, we discussed: What was Dalen's passion and dream as a kid? [2:30] What inspired fashion and film? [3:30] Dalen talks us through the Loren Spratt process [6:30] Some of the people that inspired Dalen to get into fashion [8:50] What inspired his involvement in film [10:15] BIG lessons he learned earlier on his journey when he was failing A fear on his journey he had to overcome and how he overcame it to grow his brand [17:50] A defining moment on his journey [20:00] How family affected his business/career [22:10] How he keeps from getting caught in comfort zones along the journey [24:00] How he pushes himself to get his 2016 goals achieved [25:00] An inspiring message to motivate us [32:30] Links and resources mentioned: Loren Spratt website Loren Spratt on IG Dalen Spratt on IG Dalen's Reading The 4-Hour Workweek right now Duolingo is the app Dalen's using to learn a foreign language  Dalen's Bio: In this episode of the Trailblazers Podcast, I'm honored to have interviewed Mr. Dalen Spratt from Loren Spratt. Dalen is a young multi-talented entrepreneur on the move: He is the Co-Founder /Co-Owner of Loren Spratt, a company that specializes in both fashion and film Dalen's first television show, a comedic paranormal investigative series, called GhostBrothers debuted on Destination America on April 15th and airs on Fridays at 10pm and became the #1 Premier of all time for the network. Loren Spratt has been featured on or in Essence.com, VH1, BET, Starz, the NAACP awards, The Grammys, Spike TV and much more I am delighted to have him on the show to share his wisdom as a young MBA, with a modern digital footprint.  His journey is quite remarkable, as this Clark Atlanta University graduate, has developed a men's fashion line, that offers a very concierge like experience to men seeking a tailored suit and a very personal experience in the process. You'll certainly be inspired by his focus, mindset and transparency.  Though this young 20-something still has a great deal of years + opportunity ahead of him, you can hear the experience and knowledge he's gained so far as an entrepreneur in this interview.  I value Dalen's real life stories, his honesty and acceptance to be vulnerable about his fears, failures and challenges on his journey. From the beginning of this call, before I hit the record button, he was just so excited for me to ask anything and help give his all to this interview and for that I'm eternally grateful. Tweetables of Dalen Spratt: [Tweet "Just because you have money does not mean you have to spend it @dalenspratt #entrepreneur #blackprofessional"] [Tweet "Be one of the few that doesn't count themselves out. The pool is a lot smaller than you really think it is! #entrepreneur @dalenspratt"] [Tweet "Getting comfortable will get you left behind #entrepreneur #comfortzones @dalenspratt"] [Tweet " Make it happen.  Always!  With a smile on your face @dalenspratt #cx #entrepreneur"]  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn I am thrilled about today's guest, Lakesha Cole. She's a business woman, mother of 3 and Marine Corps spouse and was selected as the 2014 Military Spouse of the YearÂŽ for her entrepreneurial prowess, volunteer efforts, and her support of the military community. She really does represent the millions of past and present military spouses who continue to thrive in a wartime environment, and dedicate their lives and families to service and giving back. I really enjoyed my talk with Lakesha, given her very unique story ... she is the CEO and owner of She Swank Too, which is a curated online children's boutique for girls. This dream-to-reality of owning a boutique started as an idea six years ago and today her brand has traveled to customers in all 50 states and four countries and as we'll cover in a few minutes, it lead to the opening of her first successful pop-up shop in Okinawa, Japan where she and her family are currently stationed. She was selected into the Military Entrepreneur Program by Inc. magazine and also featured on The Today Show with Kathie Lee & Hoda.  She's been published in Military Spouse Magazine and also featured by Ebony as The Coolest Black Family in America, No. 59  In this episode, we discussed: The actions she took as a new entrepreneur to bring her idea to reality Why she started an online business How she grew and moved her business from California to Virginia, then to Japan All the difficulties and challenges of moving her business overseas How social media helped her business What she did after losing nearly 90% of her customer base and having to hit the reset button  Tweetables of Lakesha Cole: [Tweet "Build your network before you need it @momwifepreneur #tbpod #business"] [Tweet "We communicate our why with our customers...why we do what we do @momwifepreneur #entrepreneur"] [Tweet "How @momwifepreneur lost 90% of her customers and kept going #womanentrepreneur"]  Links and resources mentioned: Lakesha Cole website She Swank Too  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. Please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes & Stitcher! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. Finally, donât forget to subscribe to get automatic updates! Itâs free! Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn
So I won a raffle at Traffic & Conversion Summit, and my prize:Â
15 minutes in an open booth conversation with Pat Flynn of The Smart Passive Income. Freak out moment for sure! I was only podcasting for 3 weeks at this point and totally went fan boy.Â
Hear my voice crackle and my nerves come through in this excited moment to have a conversation with someone I truly admire and respect as a dad, husband, business man and podcast godfather.
On todayâs episode, my friend Dr. Nekeshia Hammond gives us some great insights into how she built her practice over the past seven years, while also multi-tasking her role and responsibilities as a wife, mother and an entrepreneur.
Dr. Hammond is a licensed psychologist, speaker, and author, as well as the owner of Hammond Psychology & Associates, P.A., a private practice dedicated to helping children, teens, families, and adults. She has owned her business for the past seven years, and she has enjoyed helping numerous families.
I AM SO EXCITED TO INTRODUCE TODAYâS SUPER SPECIAL GUEST, DWAYNE WATKINS OF TEAMDWP STUDIOS. Dwayne is a published and award winning, International Wedding & Lifestyle Photographer.
Dwayne captures emotions in a wedding that will have you feeling like you were actually there. The colors, the feeling, and the energy come alive in every photo he captures.
Essence magazine awarded him the Bridal Bliss Award â Best Photographer 2015 and he was featured in a Huffington Post article for 28 FairyTale Wedding Photos that capture the magic of love [Dec 2015 â #23]. Beyond his accolades, Dwayne is an amazing person that I knew would be a terrific guest for this show because of his drive, his ambitious but humble character, and just being an all-around great guy.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSSED: * The people that inspired him to get into photography * Daily rituals that help to sharpen his mind * The big lessons learned as a photographer and business man * Why wedding photography is the hardest style of photography you can choose * The reasons he credits with experiencing success
Today's guest is Donald C. Kelly, founder and host of The Sales Evangelist podcast. Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn He has interviewed 200+ sales leaders and serves a worldwide audience of sales professionals.  He has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine, Huffington Post, and Yahoo Finance to name a few. Donald is a successful sales coach and the creator of the TSE Hustler's League that has helped train and equip sales professionals and entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence needed to find more customers, close deals and earn the money they deserve. Donald is also an energetic public speaker and well known figure among podcasters, having hosted the Podcast Movement conference for the past two years. Donald has been an inspiration and podcast mentor to me, inspiring me and silently nudged me to pursue this podcast to get published. It felt absolutely right and an honor to have him be our first guest, to share a very important lesson that every future trailblazer must have the ability to do ... sell yourself!  You've got to know how to tell your story in a manner that makes you valuable to others. In this episode, I asked Donald questions like: What's behind the negative mindset toward 'sales'? Share one truth that has held constant throughout your sales journey? What are 3 effective skills we can begin to hone to become better at selling ourselves? What advice would you like to impart to those people new to business?  Tweetables of Donald C. Kelly Quotes: [Tweet "Don't look at a failure as the end, look at it as a stepping stone to something greater @donaldckelly @tbpod #trailblazersFM"] [Tweet "Selling Tip - Ask your prospect the appropriate questions and listen! @donaldckelly @tbpod #trailblazersFM"] [Tweet ".#Wisdom - Dont be afraid of trying... of failing... of doing @donaldckelly @tbpod #trailblazersFM"]  Links and resources mentioned: LIMITED TIME OFFER: Free 30-Minute Sales Strategy Session The Sales Evangelist Podcast  Thanks for Listening! We appreciate you visiting our site today and for helping to bring awareness to the Trailblazers.FM podcast. If you've listened to this episode and have feedback you'd like to share, we encourage you to share your thoughts. Leave a note in the comment section below or shoot us a quick message! Also, please leave an honest review for The Trailblazers Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show. And finally, donât forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates! Itâs free!
We believe in challenging the perception of black success. Trailblazers.FM accelerates the rise of successful black professionals from within our own community.  We are challenging the status quo by exploring stories of todayâs most successful black professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders.  With Trailblazers.FM, youâve got access to 100+ interviews that are already in your pocket. Extract the knowledge, resources and tools from these accomplished professionals and gain the know-how, confidence and motivation you need to blaze your very own trail.  We happen to make these stories available for free through podcasts. Want to listen to one?  Visit TBPod.comÂ