Black to Business

In this special episode, led by Monique T. Marshall, founder of Black to Business and the podcast's host, we take a deep dive into the highlights, achievements, and lessons learned in 2023.

THINGS DISCUSSED DURING THIS EPISODE:

• Top podcast episodes of the year.

• Business achievements and milestones.

• Crucial business lessons learned.

• What’s next for Black to Business.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/180

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

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In this episode of the Black to Business podcast, Monique T. Marshall, the founder and host, takes you on a journey into the world of business resolutions. As we approach the new year, Monique shares actionable tips and strategies for setting meaningful goals that will drive growth and success for your business. Drawing parallels between personal resolutions and business aspirations.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Discover why setting strategic goals is crucial for business growth.

• Learn how to connect short-term objectives with your long-term business vision.

• Gain insights into practical steps to break down and achieve your business objectives.

• Understand the importance of reflecting on previous goals and outcomes for continuous improvement.

• Explore the benefits of a comprehensive business review before goal-setting.

• Discover technology and tools that can streamline your goal tracking and monitoring process.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/179

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In this episode, we dive into a crucial aspect of every business owner's journey – strategic delegation. As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves juggling an overwhelming array of tasks, and the concept of delegation can be a game-changer in reclaiming time and propelling our businesses to new heights. Our guest, Tonya Thomas, founder of Team Delegate, a virtual assistant company with over 20 years of experience, joins the show to unpack the essentials of effective delegation, providing actionable insights and real-world examples to empower you on your entrepreneurial path. From dispelling common myths to practical tips on maintaining control of your vision while delegating, this episode is a guide for business owners looking to optimize their workflow and achieve sustainable growth.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• How strategic delegation goes beyond task management, contributing significantly to business growth.

• Insights into outsourcing and virtual assistants, aligning seamlessly with effective delegation and making it accessible for beginners.

• Strategies to overcome the fear of delegation, including specific advice for those hesitant to trust others with critical aspects of their business.

• Practical steps for aligning delegation efforts with your overall business goals, ensuring every task is a step towards success.

• The art of identifying delegable tasks, recognizing the balance between maintaining control and effective delegation, and overcoming emotional attachments to certain tasks.

About Tonya Thomas and Team Delegate:

Tonya Thomas, a business owner with over 20 years of experience, is the driving force behind Team Delegate, a virtual assistant company founded in 2001. Team Delegate partners with entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals, offering virtual executive assistant support to streamline administrative tasks. Tonya's expertise extends beyond task delegation; she specializes in helping CEOs grow their teams, navigate multi-million-dollar revenue growth, and reclaim precious time for major expansion projects. As a seasoned speaker and host of the Unbottleneck Your Business podcast, Tonya is dedicated to empowering business owners through strategic delegation, bringing order to chaos, and unlocking the freedom to focus on business growth.

Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts:

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/178

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

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

The significance of this conversation is not just in the story we unfold but in the relevance it holds for countless dreamers and doers out there. Imagine building a business not with colleagues or partners but with those who share your blood or the bonds of friendship that run just as deep. It's a scenario that demands not just strategic business acumen but a profound understanding of the delicate balance between personal connections and professional endeavors.

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of the Shanklin Hall journey, unraveling the intricacies of how a group of family and friends turned a collective vision into a thriving social club that stands at the intersection of community, creativity, and wellness. Tau Shanklin Roberts, one of the five founders, is sharing insights, challenges, and triumphs that come with intertwining the worlds of business and personal relationships.

THINGS YOU’LL LEARN DURING THIS EPISODE::

• Discover how a group of family and friends transformed a collective vision into the thriving social club, Shanklin Hall.

• Explore the narrative of building a business with family and friends.

• Understand the intricacies of maintaining a delicate balance when your business partners are those who share deep personal connections.

• Gain insights into the intentional communication, transparency, and unique dynamics that define businesses built on familial and friendship bonds.

• Discover the strengths that emerge when business is founded on the foundation of close-knit connections.

About Tau:

Tau Shanklin Roberts aims to be a visionary and prides himself on his expertise to find opportunities through connection and collaboration. He began the journey to bring Shanklin Hall to fruition after serving 10 years as a Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State, where he first began understanding the value and potential that people-to-people connection unlocks. His experiences in foreign lands helped inspire an insatiable curiosity for new ideas, designs, and culture, which he hopes to provide a platform through Shanklin Hall. He holds an MPA from the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University and a BA in Economics from Morehouse College. As a native Washingtonian, he’s also a proud graduate of D.C. Public Schools, receiving a diploma from Benjamin Banneker Academic Senior High School.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/177

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, there are pioneers who shape industries, and today, we're delving into the journey of one such trailblazer—Alvin Jones. Recently honored at the Hip Hop Awards, Alvin is not just an industry veteran; he's the visionary creator behind Rap City, a cultural touchstone in the realm of hip-hop storytelling on Black Entertainment Television (BET).

Alvin's impact goes beyond the beats. For nineteen years, Rap City was the heartbeat of the record industry, providing a platform for rappers to share their stories authentically and making hip-hop a relevant force. As we celebrate the 50th year of hip-hop, the recently premiered Rap City documentary on BET takes center stage, offering a retrospective on Alvin's influence.

Join us as we unravel the layers of Alvin's journey, exploring the evolution of Rap City, the enduring power of storytelling in hip-hop, and the blueprint he offers for entrepreneurs navigating uncharted territories.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Discover the inspirations that sparked the entrepreneurial fire behind Rap City's creation.

• Explore strategies on how Rap City transcended being a music show, becoming a cultural landmark.

• Grasp the strategies behind the profound impact of storytelling in hip-hop, reflecting on its positive influence on the Black community through the evolution of Rap City.

• Gain insights into the mindset of a pioneer, learning strategies for overcoming challenges and persisting.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/176

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In the bustling aisles of toy stores, a father of three, Matthew Goins, confronted a familiar predicament. On a mission to find puzzles reflecting the diversity of his family, he was met with disappointment – rows of generic images that failed to capture his children's uniqueness.

Undeterred, Matthew, a three-time Howard graduate with a background in tech HR, turned frustration into fuel, embarking on a journey that transformed his personal quest into the thriving entrepreneurial venture we now know as Puzzle Huddle.

Join us in this episode of the Black To Business podcast as we dive into the vibrant world of Puzzle Huddle. It's not just about success; it's about resilience, innovation, and the profound impact of community support. Matthew Goins shares the challenges, triumphs, and strategic moves that propelled Puzzle Huddle from frustration to a thriving business in a mere two years.

Matthew Goins' accolades speak volumes about Puzzle Huddle's impact – featured in major retailers, endorsed by Oprah, and thriving in just two years when the original plan anticipated five. This isn't just a success story; it's an exploration of how Puzzle Huddle became a trailblazer, setting the standard for representation and inclusivity in children's entertainment.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Strategies for transforming personal frustrations into a viable entrepreneurial venture.

• The critical role of diversity and representation in children's products as a strategic business cornerstone.

• Insights into the evolution of a home-based venture into a thriving business within a remarkably short span.

• How to align personal values with a business mission, creating resonance and authenticity.

• Practical steps for scaling a business, leveraging strategic approaches applicable across industries.

• Valuable lessons derived from overcoming challenges during a rapid business growth phase.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/175

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

Embarking on entrepreneurship in an industry resistant to change is like navigating uncharted waters, where the odds are stacked against success. In this episode, we unveil the strategies for this entrepreneurial expedition with trailblazer Mahisha Dellinger, who defied the norms of the natural hair care industry with CURLS.

Mahisha founded CURLS in the early 2000s, challenging preconceived notions and proving that innovation thrives even in seemingly saturated markets. As CEO and Founder, she pioneered the natural hair care market, making CURLS one of the first four brands to launch in Target in 2002. Over two decades, CURLS has become a recognized brand in major retailers like Target, Sally Beauty, and ULTA, reaching international markets in Canada, Brazil, Africa, and the UK.

Mahisha's success story is remarkable, reflecting her astute business acumen. Today, CURLS stands as a multi-million dollar brand, offering products tailored to diverse textured hair needs, resonating across age ranges, regions, and multicultural communities.

Beyond the shelves, Mahisha's impact extends through the Black Women Making Millions Academy, a program committed to aiding 25,000 businesses with over $450 million dollars' worth of free resources. Join us as we delve into Mahisha's journey, unraveling the strategies that propelled CURLS to the forefront and offering insights for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to disrupt fixed industries.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Tactics to differentiate and stand out in a competitive industry

• The significance of brand consistency and cultivating customer loyalty

• Practical tips for managing time and energy during the early stages of entrepreneurship

• Strategies for handling setbacks and using them as drivers for success

• The role of cutting-edge products in staying ahead in the market

• Navigating challenges when making the leap into entrepreneurship

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes atblacktobusiness.com/174

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, traditions often play a defining role in shaping industry norms and practices. For many, entering a traditional market can feel like stepping into a time capsule, where established conventions are deeply rooted and resistant to change. The narrative often echoes sentiments of skepticism and caution, questioning whether innovation and modernization can truly find a place in sectors entrenched in tradition.

Now, consider Obi Omile Jr., a disruptor navigating this dynamic landscape with theCut, rewriting the playbook of a traditional industry—the barbershop business. Obi, listed on Forbes 30 Under 30 and a Techstars '18 alum, brings a wealth of experience from the tech and financial services sectors. His journey unfolds in an industry steeped in tradition—the barbershop business. However, his story is not just about transforming haircuts; it's a testament to challenging norms, infusing innovation, and crafting cutting-edge customer experiences.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Strategies for modernizing and innovating within traditional frameworks.

• Tips for adapting technology to diverse business needs for efficiency

• How to overcome challenges in tech integration for non-tech sectors

• Key principles for crafting standout customer experiences in resistant industries.

• How to build trust and transparency with technology in business

So, whether you're in retail, service, or any sector where tradition runs deep, Obi's insights will serve as a compass, guiding you through the uncharted territories of modernization. His success in challenging norms and crafting cutting-edge customer experiences makes this episode a valuable resource for entrepreneurs navigating the delicate balance between tradition and innovation.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/173

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, the concept of building a business with friends often raises a few eyebrows. The common wisdom suggests that mixing business with personal relationships can be a recipe for disaster. However, in this episode of the Black to Business Podcast, we're diving deep into a fascinating and often underestimated aspect of entrepreneurship - the Friendship First Mentality.

Shannon Jones and Yadira Harrison, co-founders of the flourishing hybrid consultancy and agency, verb., are here to challenge the misconceptions and share their remarkable journey. Their story is an inspiring testament to the idea that building a bond with your business partner, particularly if they're a friend, can be the secret ingredient to creating a successful business.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Why building a strong bond with your business partner before you lay the foundation for your business matters.

• The tangible benefits of a friendship-first approach in business, dispelling the myth that you can't do business with friends.

• How Shannon and Yadira's personal journey from colleagues to friends, and eventually co-founders of verb., shaped the success of their business.

• Strategies and practical advice for nurturing and maintaining a friendship-first mentality with your potential business partners.

• Strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance when working closely with a friend in a professional capacity.

• How to handle potential disagreements or conflicts within the context of a friendship-first approach to business.

Shannon and Yadira are living proof that it's not only possible but highly beneficial to have a deep and meaningful friendship with your business partner. Their remarkable success with verb. and their impressive client roster exemplify how their unique friendship-first approach has translated into tangible business success.

If you're an entrepreneur contemplating going into business with a friend, or if you're already in such a partnership and looking for ways to thrive, this episode is an invaluable resource. Shannon and Yadira's insights will inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey, helping you navigate the world of business with authenticity, empathy, and a strong foundation of friendship.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/172

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

In the hustle and bustle of today's entrepreneurial world, where opportunities are vast but challenges can be overwhelming, resilience and operational efficiency are the keys to unlocking success. Black entrepreneurs, particularly those navigating the world of business for the first time, must equip themselves with the knowledge and strategies to thrive, overcome obstacles, and make their mark.

Operational efficiency is the key to sustainable growth. As an entrepreneur, your resources, both in terms of time and money, are limited. Operating efficiently means making the most out of what you have. In this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into optimizing your operations, streamlining processes, and boosting productivity.

Our guest, Sam Pierre, Managing Partner at SMP Global Consultants, a prominent Black-owned management consulting firm, shares his extensive knowledge and expertise in government affairs, energy, and healthcare administration. Sam guides us through the vital role of management consulting in driving positive change within organizations and communities. He offers valuable insights into enhancing leadership effectiveness, navigating disruptions, leveraging emerging technologies, and building resilient and agile organizations.

DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• The crucial role of management consulting in business success.

• Strategies for enhancing leadership effectiveness and driving change within organizations.

• Navigating disruptions and leveraging emerging technologies for a competitive edge.

• Practical steps to build resilience within your business.

• Fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous improvement.

• Measuring resilience using key indicators and metrics.

Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/171

Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!

Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA

Connect with us on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/

Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:

https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist