Black To Business

As a Black entrepreneur, you wear many hats. You’re the CEO, the marketer, the customer service rep, the accountant, and everything in between. But at some point, doing everything yourself will slow your business down, limit your growth, and lead to burnout. The truth is, many entrepreneurs wait too long to hire help, and by the time they do, they’re drowning in work with no clear process to onboard someone effectively. That’s why preparing for hiring before you actually need help is critical.   We understand that hiring can feel overwhelming. You might wonder where to start, what tasks to delegate, or how to find the right person. But the key to making hiring smooth and stress-free is having systems in place beforehand. In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly what you need to document, which tasks you should offload first, and how to set your business up so that when the time comes, bringing someone on feels seamless instead of chaotic.   If you want to scale your business, create more impact, and avoid

Diverse teams are powerful, but they don’t run on autopilot. As a Black entrepreneur, you’re building something bigger than yourself, whether it’s a small business, a growing startup, or an industry-disrupting venture. But success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people. And in today’s business world, knowing how to lead people who don’t think or look like you isn’t optional. It’s essential.   We understand that leadership can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re managing a team with different backgrounds, communication styles, and experiences. Many resources focus on how others should lead us, but what about our journey as Black entrepreneurs leading people from all walks of life? That’s why this conversation with Stephanie Chung is so important.   Stephanie isn’t just a powerhouse executive. She’s a history-making leader who has mastered the art of Ally Leadership. From starting in aviation as a baggage handler to becoming the first Black woman to lead a private aviation company, her journey is pro

In this episode, we tackle one of the most transformative topics of our time: how digital currency and blockchain technology are reshaping financial freedom, especially for Black entrepreneurs. With systemic barriers often limiting access to traditional financial systems, the rise of decentralized technologies offers a new path forward. We understand how critical it is for you as an entrepreneur to not only grow your business but also to build sustainable, generational wealth. That’s why this conversation is designed to break down the complexities of digital currency into actionable insights.   Join us as Dr. Tonya Evans, a tenured professor, blockchain expert, and author of Digital Money Demystified, shares her expertise. She dives deep into how this technology can level the playing field, open doors to new markets, and create opportunities that were previously out of reach. Whether you’re just starting to learn about digital currency or considering how to integrate it into your business, this episode provid

Building a powerful personal brand is one of the most effective ways to stand out as an entrepreneur, and in this episode, we’re diving deep into how to do just that. If you’ve ever wondered how to package your expertise, communicate your value, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry, this episode is for you. Crafting impactful brand messaging is essential for positioning yourself as an expert in your field, connecting authentically with your audience, and creating opportunities to grow your business. Toni S. Brown shares her FAST Method (Foundation, Audience, Strategies, Thought Leadership) for building a personal brand that is both authentic and transformative. Her approach breaks down the complexities of branding into simple, actionable steps that you can implement immediately. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your brand messaging as you scale, this workshop-style conversation will help you lay a solid foundation, attract the right audience, and amplify your messag

You’ve built a solid service-based business. Your clients love what you do, and you’re making an impact. But as you think about the future, you’re wondering, “How can I scale without burning out? How can I build something that works for me, even when I’m not actively working?” That’s where adding products to your business comes in.   For many service providers, creating a physical product can feel overwhelming. Where do you even start? How do you choose a product that makes sense for your business? And what if it doesn’t sell? These are all valid questions, and in this episode, we’ve brought on someone who knows exactly how to navigate these challenges.   Anthony Standifer, Co-founder and CMO of mSEED Group, has over 25 years of experience in product formulation and brand development. He’s worked with over 250 brands to turn ideas into tangible, sellable products, and he’s here to share the exact steps you need to take to diversify your business with products. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or freelancer

The start of a new year is more than just setting resolutions. It’s about reflecting on your purpose and aligning your goals with what truly matters. As Black entrepreneurs, our journeys are uniquely layered with challenges, wins, and responsibilities that extend beyond business. This episode is designed to help you tap into your "why," ensuring that your 2025 goals are not just impactful but deeply connected to your vision and mission. In this episode, Monique dives into how revisiting your purpose can lead to clarity, focus, and intentional growth in the new year. Whether you’re feeling excited or overwhelmed by the blank slate of 2025, this conversation will guide you toward actionable steps that align with your greater mission. THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE: How to reflect on your journey and reconnect with your evolving "why." The importance of aligning your goals with your deeper mission. Practical strategies for setting meaningful, purpose-driven goals. Ways to navigate challenges wit

As 2024 comes to a close, this special solo episode is all about reflection, celebration, and intention. It’s been an incredible year for the Black to Business community, and Monique T. Marshall is here to share some of the biggest milestones, the lessons learned, and an exciting look ahead to what’s coming in 2025.   For Black entrepreneurs, closing out the year is more than just wrapping up loose ends, it’s about honoring the work you’ve done, reflecting on the challenges and wins, and setting the stage for what’s next. Whether you’re celebrating a year of growth or regrouping after a tough season, this episode will inspire you to move forward with clarity and purpose. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Insights about the Black to Business audience, including favorite podcast episodes and audience demographics. The significance of consistency in entrepreneurship and how it opens unexpected doors. Reflections on top podcast episodes of 2024 and the lessons they offered. Behind-the-scenes highlights

Grief is a reality that many entrepreneurs face, yet it’s a topic rarely addressed in the business world. Whether it's the profound loss of a loved one, a failed business venture, or significant life changes, grief can deeply impact your emotional, mental, and physical well-being and, ultimately, your ability to lead and grow your business. As a leader, you're not just managing your own emotions but also navigating the grief of your team members, making it vital to foster a culture of empathy and support.   In this powerful episode, Kimberli Gross, founder of Celebrate Still, Inc., shares her journey through grief and how she turned her personal experience into a mission to support others. With over two decades of experience and a specialized background in grief counseling, Kimberli offers practical, step-by-step strategies to help you recognize, process, and navigate grief while maintaining the health of your business. This episode isn’t just about surviving grief—it’s about thriving through it and building

As entrepreneurs gear up for the end of the year, we understand the mix of emotions you're facing. The pressure to close out strong, the uncertainty about next year's direction, and the nagging feeling that your business systems need an overhaul. This episode of the Black to Business podcast cuts through the typical "new year, new you" rhetoric to deliver a practical, actionable framework for assessing where your business truly stands and creating a strategic path forward. We recognize that as a Black entrepreneur, you're not just running a business – you're often blazing trails, building generational wealth, and carrying the weight of being the first in your family to walk this path. That's why this episode focuses on more than just numbers and goals.  THINGS YOU'LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE How to conduct an honest assessment of your business's current financial health Creating systems for tracking revenue and expenses that you'll actually stick to Setting boundaries in your business that protect your

We understand that as a Black entrepreneur, your business is your lifeline, your passion, and your source of financial freedom. But what happens when the unexpected strikes—like a sudden disability? Too often, these scenarios are overlooked in entrepreneurial planning, leaving business owners financially vulnerable. This episode dives into an essential yet rarely discussed topic: how to financially prepare your business for a sudden disability. We explore why planning for disabilities is critical for long-term business success and financial security, especially for Black entrepreneurs who often face unique challenges in accessing resources and support. Tanya Taylor, a seasoned financial coach and wealth expert, brings her personal experiences and professional insights to the conversation. With over two decades of experience, Tanya has seen firsthand the devastating impact of financial unpreparedness—and she’s here to equip you with the tools and strategies to safeguard your business and finances against the u

As entrepreneurs, we’re often so focused on what’s next—whether it’s hitting the next goal, serving our customers, or building for the future that we forget to pause and celebrate ourselves. But entrepreneurship is bold. It’s about betting on yourself, navigating challenges, and creating something meaningful. This journey deserves recognition, and that’s exactly what we’re talking about in today’s short and sweet solo episode. Things You’ll Learn During This Episode Why choosing entrepreneurship is a bold and courageous decision Practical ways to make self-gratitude a daily habit How gratitude can help you stay connected to your vision and legacy Simple practices to shift your focus from stress to appreciation Tune in now to learn how self-gratitude can transform not just your mindset, but also your approach to business. Let’s celebrate the boldness of entrepreneurship together. Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate a

The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time filled with joy and connection for many, it also comes with its fair share of challenges especially for entrepreneurs. From juggling year-end goals and customer demands to balancing personal obligations like family gatherings and holiday shopping, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode, Monique dives into actionable strategies to help you manage the stress and overwhelm of running your business during the holidays.  THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE How to identify the sources of holiday stress in both business and personal life. Tips for setting boundaries that protect your time and energy. Strategies to stay organized and avoid last-minute scrambling. The importance of prioritizing self-care during hectic times. Small, actionable steps to help you stay focused and resilient through the season. The holidays don’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies and a focus on what truly matters,

Building a strong legal foundation is essential for any entrepreneur, and as a Black business owner, you know that protecting your work and ensuring a secure, lasting brand isn’t just a step—it’s a strategy for success. In this episode, we dig into the essentials of creating a legally sound business that not only protects your assets but strengthens your brand. We understand the journey of entrepreneurship can be complex, especially when it comes to legal matters that may feel intimidating or hard to navigate.  In this conversation, Temi Siyanbade, a dynamic business attorney and branding strategist, shares how to establish a solid legal and branding foundation. Temi breaks down critical topics, from selecting the right business structure to trademarking, so you can protect what you’re building and position yourself for growth. Temi brings deep expertise as the founder of Elevated Esquire, a boutique law firm and consultancy based in Houston, Texas, where she helps entrepreneurs strategically position themsel

In this special episode of the Black to Business podcast, we’re addressing something many of us are feeling right now—uncertainty. With recent events impacting our community, it’s normal to wonder what comes next and how to stay focused amidst the shifts around us. As Black entrepreneurs, we’re no strangers to navigating challenges, but times like these can feel particularly intense, especially when our paths are closely tied to the social and economic climate.   THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE: How to recognize and honor your emotions as a business owner during uncertain times Small, intentional actions to stay focused and maintain momentum Tips for setting boundaries around information to protect your energy The importance of community and surrounding yourself with supportive voices How to navigate challenges with a vision that goes beyond just business   Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on

Hitting a wall in your business is something every entrepreneur experiences, but it’s often hard to figure out how to push past it. Whether you’re a new founder or have been at it for years, feeling “stuck” doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s a sign that something needs to shift. This episode dives deep into what it really means to feel stuck, why it happens, and how to identify the key areas in your business where change can create real progress. From understanding where your time and energy are going to refocusing on goals that genuinely move the needle, we explore practical steps to regain momentum and align your daily actions with your big-picture vision.   THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE How to recognize the signs of feeling “stuck” and what they really mean for your business Practical ways to assess where your energy is going and why that matters Steps to refocus on your core business goals for better alignment Tips for finding quick wins that help build momentum How to lean into your str

When you're running a business, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks and feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of things that need your attention. As entrepreneurs, we understand that the journey can be even more challenging when you’re trying to figure out what area of your business to focus on next. This episode dives into how to assess your business’s current needs and identify what’s truly holding you back from making progress. Whether you’ve been in business for a while or are just starting out, knowing what your business needs right now is crucial to staying on track and avoiding burnout.  It’s all about being strategic and understanding that not every business requires the same approach. Some are struggling with marketing, while others are caught up in systems, finances, or even leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn how to pinpoint what needs the most attention in your business right now and how to make intentional progress, rather than trying to do it all at once.  THINGS YOU’LL LEA

Having the right team in place can be the difference between your business thriving or just getting by. Building a high-performing team is essential for any entrepreneur looking to scale and sustain success. But what does it take to create a team that not only meets but exceeds expectations? Whether you already have a team or are in the early stages of building one, understanding how to set the foundation for high performance is critical. In this episode, we sit down with Lakeisha Robichaux, CEO of Chief of Minds, to break down the strategies behind team building, accountability, and leadership. You’ll learn how to develop a clear vision that your team can rally behind, implement accountability without micromanaging, and foster a culture of open communication and trust.  With Lakeisha’s extensive background in organizational development and HR, she offers practical advice on how to get the most out of your team and avoid common pitfalls that can derail your progress. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: The ke

Every small town has its share of untapped potential—local heroes quietly working behind the scenes, creating opportunities and inspiring those around them. In this episode, we explore the immense power of small-town entrepreneurship and how these ventures can lead to significant community impact. It’s a journey filled with unique challenges and rewarding experiences, reminding us that your location doesn’t determine your success; your drive and commitment do. Marquis Forge, founder and CEO of MRaine Industries and Eleven86 Real Artesian Water, embodies this spirit of resilience. He turned his small-town dream into a thriving business, demonstrating how local entrepreneurs can uplift their communities and pave the way for future generations. THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE: The unique challenges faced by small-town entrepreneurs and how to navigate them. Strategies for building a brand that resonates with local communities. The importance of community engagement in driving business success. Ho

In this episode, we dive deep into essential strategies for securing press coverage even when you feel like your business lacks a significant news event. We understand that many entrepreneurs—whether you're just starting out or have been in business for years—often feel that without a major announcement, your story goes unheard. Brennan Nevada Johnson, founder of Brennan Nevada Inc., shares invaluable insights on how to creatively position your business in the media. This conversation is crucial for anyone eager to build visibility, connect with their audience, and leverage public relations as a powerful tool for growth. Brennan emphasizes that every business has a unique story waiting to be told, and finding innovative ways to present that story can lead to increased awareness and credibility. Throughout the episode, you will discover actionable tips that will empower you to take control of your narrative and maximize your opportunities for media exposure, no matter your current situation. THINGS YOU’LL LEAR

Starting a business is no easy feat, and for Black entrepreneurs, the challenges can often feel even more overwhelming. From navigating limited resources and accessing capital, to breaking down barriers in the business world, there’s a lot to handle. On top of these systemic challenges, many new business owners fall into avoidable traps—common pitfalls that can stall progress before it even begins. In this episode of the Black to Business podcast, we’re diving deep into these common mistakes so you can sidestep them and set your business on a path to success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, we understand the importance of laying a solid foundation. You’ve got a dream, and we’re here to help you build it. THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE: Why skipping market research is a huge mistake and how to avoid it. The importance of legally protecting your business from day one. How to manage your finances effectively and treat your business like a business, not a hobby.