Business First w/Sonia Alleyne

In this inspiring episode of the Business First Podcast, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with Yachtze Luchin, founder and CEO of Unite Oil and Gas International, to explore the importance of access, representation, and purpose in the energy sector. Yachtze shares his powerful journey—from overcoming a challenging upbringing to building a thriving career in engineering and ultimately founding a mission-driven oil and gas company. Together, they discuss the systemic barriers in the industry, the value of diversity in leadership, and how entrepreneurs can balance profitability with social responsibility. Whether you're an emerging business owner, a corporate leader, or someone passionate about building impact-driven enterprises, this episode is filled with actionable insights and motivating takeaways.

In this impactful episode of the #BusinessFirstPodcast, host #SoniaAlleyne sits down once again with entrepreneur and visionary #RobertBlackwellJr. to explore the vital role of economic empowerment in the #BlackCommunity. Reflecting on the enduring legacy of #BlackWallStreet, Blackwell challenges outdated charity models and calls for a shift toward building human and social capital as the foundation for lasting prosperity. He highlights the importance of organizations like #TecsDotLove in fostering entrepreneurship and free enterprise, while also addressing the failures of government systems to create real economic opportunity. Blackwell urges Black communities—especially #BlackWomen—to hold elected officials accountable and unite around the shared goal of economic success. This conversation is a call to action for those committed to closing the wealth gap, supporting Black-owned businesses, and demanding a seat at the economic table.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with wine industry trailblazer Stephanie Browne, founder of Divas UnCorked, and author of the newly released book Sipping Sense. Stephanie shares her inspiring journey through the world of wine—from breaking barriers as a Black woman in a predominantly white industry to creating inclusive spaces that celebrate culture, community, and connection through wine. They explore how wine appreciation has evolved, particularly among women and people of color, and why storytelling is at the heart of wine culture. Stephanie also dives into her book, which blends her passion for wine, healthy cooking, and entertaining, and previews her podcast that highlights diverse voices shaping the wine world. From her early days to future plans for immersive wine tours and deeper community engagement, this episode is a toast to purpose-driven business and cultural celebration. Find more inspiring conversations like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app, available now in the App Store or Google Play.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Kelli Lester, co-founder of Onyx Rising, about the importance of change management, financial wellness, and inclusive leadership. Kelli shares her journey of embracing change, the significance of financial education, and the strategies her firm employs to help individuals and organizations achieve their goals. The conversation delves into personal stories of overcoming financial challenges, the need for a mindset shift regarding money management, and the essential traits of inclusive leadership. In this conversation, Kelli Lester discusses the importance of self-awareness in leadership, the need to amplify diverse voices, and the significance of feedback in personal and professional growth. She emphasizes the connection between head, heart, and hands in effective leadership and shares her future plans for a podcast focused on inclusive leadership. The discussion also touches on the challenges of navigating change and the importance of teaching resilience to the next generation.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Byron McGowan, a cattle farmer and arborist, about the historical context of Black farmers in the U.S., the challenges they face today, and the importance of educating consumers about sustainable farming practices. Byron shares his personal journey into agriculture, the stigma surrounding farming careers, and the lessons he learned from his military service. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency in sourcing food and the significance of customer service in the farming industry. In this conversation, Byron McGowan shares his journey from a fascination with the outdoors to becoming an arborist and running McGowan Farms. He discusses the importance of understanding food labels, the dangers of arborist work, and his vision for expanding his farm to support local communities. Byron emphasizes the need for education and empowerment in agriculture, especially for young people, and addresses the impact of tariffs on local farming operations. The conversation concludes with a call for community support and connection.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Shante Bacon, a communication strategist and founder of One35 Agency. They discuss Shante's journey through entrepreneurship, the impact of COVID-19 on her personal and professional life, and the importance of building genuine relationships in business. Shante shares insights on her agency's advocacy for black-owned businesses and media, as well as her experiences in the music and film industries. The conversation highlights the transformative nature of their campaigns and the significance of community engagement in achieving success. In this conversation, Shante Bacon discusses the importance of understanding audience migration, the significance of knowing one's core identity, and the necessity of finding a supportive community. She shares personal experiences of navigating loss and how it has transformed her approach to business. Shante emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to empower themselves through education, particularly in public relations, to effectively communicate their unique value.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne talks with Freedom Farlow Cook and Tom Cook, the creative duo behind Freedom Rites Productions. They discuss their latest play, 'Take No Tea for a Fever,' and explore the dynamics of their partnership, the journey of playwriting, the challenges of directing, and the importance of support in creative endeavors. The conversation also touches on the marketing aspects of theater and the aspirations for future projects, including potential film adaptations.

As the nation witnesses a troubling shift in corporate commitments to DEI, with major brands like Target and Walmart pulling back from inclusive marketing strategies, the ripple effects are real—especially for Black-owned brands and advertising agencies that have long been advocates for authentic representation. In this timely re-release, @TDeveaux, CEO of the legendary @Burrell_Comm, speaks powerfully on the role of Black businesses in the advertising world, the evolving nature of marketing to Black audiences, and the urgent need for brands to stay the course—not retreat—on equity and inclusion. DeVeaux explores the art of storytelling, the necessity of cultural immersion in campaign building, and how Black creatives have long set the tone for innovation in the industry. She also reflects on the unique challenges of aligning with larger corporate brands, navigating systemic roadblocks, and carving out space for purpose-driven leadership. As attacks on DEI intensify, this conversation is more relevant than ever—a rallying cry to keep Black voices, agencies, and communities front and center in the future of advertising.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Jackie O. Asare, a seasoned public relations expert, about the evolution of PR and marketing, the importance of cultural sensitivity in messaging, and the critical role of listening in crafting effective communication strategies. They discuss the differences between marketing and PR, the impact of influencers, and how small businesses can leverage event coordination and social media to enhance their storytelling and brand presence. Jackie shares insights on creating excitement around brands and the journey that led her to become a public relations expert. In this conversation, Jackie O. Asare shares her journey through the music industry, highlighting the importance of relationships, networking, and the challenges faced along the way. She discusses her transition to independent publicity and offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for a mindset shift and the significance of being present in every experience. Jackie also reflects on the lessons learned from her career and the necessity of adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Thurman Trotman, an expert in SharePoint, about the challenges business owners face in solving their own problems. Thurman shares his journey into the IT field and how he became a SharePoint specialist. He emphasizes the importance of organization in business and how SharePoint can streamline processes, automate tasks, and serve as a powerful tool for document management. The conversation also highlights the value of hiring an expert to navigate the complexities of SharePoint and the transformative moments clients experience when they implement effective solutions. In this engaging conversation, Therm (aka Mr. SharePoint) shares his journey from uncertainty to becoming an IT guru, emphasizing the importance of technology in improving processes. He reflects on his transformative experience in the military, which helped him discover his passion for learning and strategy. Therm discusses the significance of intentionality in personal growth and the benefits of journaling for clarity. He concludes with advice for business owners to find their passion and layer their work on top of it, highlighting the necessity of SharePoint in modern business.

**Rerelease: Business First Podcast with Sonia Alleyne & Robert Blackwell Jr.** In this episode of *Business First*, host **Sonia Alleyne** sits down with **Robert Blackwell Jr.** to discuss the power of **Black entrepreneurship** in addressing economic disparities. Blackwell emphasizes the importance of **aspirational leadership**, the historical role of **Black business owners in civil rights movements**, and why **economic integration** is key to lasting change. As **DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives face increasing challenges from the Trump administration**, Blackwell questions their effectiveness and argues that **real economic empowerment comes from business ownership, not programs**. He shares insights on **building sustainable businesses, engaging customers, and training future leaders** to think critically. This conversation also dives into his **unique journey—from tech entrepreneur to table tennis company founder—and the fundamental balance of love and money in business.**

In this episode, Dr. Eden-Reneé Hayes, a business strategist and coach, discusses the current landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the business world. She emphasizes the importance of understanding DEI as a framework for respect and fairness, rather than a preferential treatment system. Dr. Hayes highlights the business case for DEI, noting that diverse teams drive innovation and better decision-making. She shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, the skills she brought with her, and the common pitfalls businesses face in implementing DEI practices. The conversation concludes with a focus on the future of pluralism in business and the need for hope in challenging times. Some links discussed in this episode: https://www.mass.gov/doc/multi-state-guidance-concerning-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-accessibility-employment-initiatives/download http://pluralismsolutions.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M30iSJRHFfM https://www.employmentlawwatch.com/2025/03/articles/employment-us/court-clarifies-that-dei-executive-orders-are-temporarily-blocked-for-all-federal-agencies/ An appeals court said the EO's can stand, but warned that if agencies do proceed with banning DEI that they could be violating the US constitution (free speech specifically): https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-court-allows-trump-enforce-ban-dei-programs-now-2025-03-14/

In this episode, Ty Woods shares her inspiring journey from homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur and business coach. She discusses the importance of resilience, community support, and the power of believing in oneself. Ty emphasizes the need for small businesses to get their finances in order and prepare for upcoming funding opportunities, particularly through grants and proper credit management. She also highlights the significance of establishing systems and standard operating procedures to build a sustainable business. In this conversation, Ty Woods discusses the importance of mission statements in organizations, the vision behind his platform BusinessGrants.com, and the innovative technology being developed to assist small businesses in securing grants. He shares his personal success story with Airbnb, emphasizing the role of creativity in business. Ty also highlights the challenges of coaching clients, particularly regarding mindset, and outlines his results-driven coaching process. The discussion touches on funding goals for his business and the significance of being mission-focused. Finally, Ty shares insights on balancing multiple businesses and personal life.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonya Alleyne talks with Mark Money Green, a prominent figure in the hip hop industry. Mark shares his journey from aspiring musician to influential agent and manager, discussing his experiences with iconic artists and the evolution of hip hop. He emphasizes the importance of passion, trust, and intuition in navigating the music business, while also reflecting on the challenges and sacrifices he faced throughout his 40-year career. Mark's insights provide valuable lessons for anyone in the entertainment industry or business in general. In this engaging conversation, Mark Money Green shares his journey from an unexpected start in the music industry to becoming a successful agent and entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of positivity, the challenges of starting a business, and the joy of supporting emerging artists. Mark reflects on the global impact of hip hop, the evolution of artist compensation, and the lessons learned from his experiences. He emphasizes the role of faith and resilience in overcoming adversity and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Mark also shares his commitment to continuous learning and his future aspirations, including the development of the Hip Hop Museum.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne speaks with Emmy award-winning producer Dario Harris about his upcoming documentary, 'Legacy of Land,' which explores the history of his family, particularly his great grandparents, James and Bessie Ham. Dario shares insights into his journey as a filmmaker, the importance of family legacy, and the lessons learned from his military experience. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, storytelling, and the impact of family history on personal identity and purpose.

In this episode, John Speaks returns to discuss the closure of his restaurant, Hyperion Public, and the subsequent legal battles he faces due to alleged harassment and systemic racism. He shares his experiences of intimidation from local authorities after publicly identifying his business as Black-owned. John emphasizes the importance of standing up against systemic injustices and aims to set a precedent for minority-owned businesses through his lawsuit. He also reflects on the personal toll of losing his business and the stress it has caused, while encouraging others to fight for their rights and seek empowerment through knowledge and community support.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne engages with Germaine Miller-Summers, founder of Hope of Vision Publishing, to explore the transformative power of storytelling and the journey of becoming a published author. Germaine shares her transition from a successful career in the music industry to establishing her own publishing company, emphasizing the importance of following one's inner guidance and the therapeutic nature of writing. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of publishing, the significance of problem-solving in business, and the necessity of listening to one's intuition. In this conversation, Germaine Miller-Summers shares her transformative journey from the entertainment industry to the world of publishing. She discusses the importance of recognizing when to leave a familiar environment for personal growth and the lessons learned in her publishing career. Germaine emphasizes the power of storytelling and the significance of allowing individuals to embrace their own journeys. She outlines the services offered by her company, Hope of Vision, and introduces the 90-Day Book Creation program designed to help aspiring authors navigate the publishing process.

In this engaging conversation, Melba Moore reflects on her illustrious career spanning over five decades, breaking barriers in Broadway, R&B, and television. She shares insights into her latest project with her daughter, the evolution of her career, and the impact of social media on her audience reach. Melba offers valuable advice for aspiring artists navigating the modern entertainment landscape and discusses her future aspirations, including a desire to explore comedy and continue her musical journey.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne chats with Clarisse Peria Mekongo, a multi-disciplinary artist and owner of Culture Boutique. Clarisse shares her journey from Cameroon to the United States, her passion for various art forms, and the challenges she faced as an immigrant artist. She discusses the importance of cultural expression in her work, the materials she uses, and her vision for the future of Culture Boutique as a space for creativity and personal growth.

In this episode, Gina Brown shares her inspiring journey of love and entrepreneurship with her husband, Steve, as they build their apparel brand, My BK Life. From their childhood friendship in Brooklyn to reconnecting and starting a business together, Gina discusses the importance of community, the challenges of balancing work and personal life, and their future aspirations for the brand. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in business and the power of social media in connecting with customers.

Barbara Clarke Ruiz, an activewear designer turned entrepreneur, shares her journey and the launch of her lifestyle brand for dogs called Lick You Silly Products and found success on Amazon. Barbara emphasizes the importance of finding the right suppliers, creating standout packaging, and telling a compelling story to build a successful brand. She also shares advice for creative entrepreneurs and the importance of finding a supportive circle of mentors and advisors. Barbara talks about her love for her job and the importance of listening to your gut and finding time for self-reflection. Barbara emphasizes the value of relationships and staying connected in the industry.

In this conversation, Sonia Alleyne talks with Theresa Merritt-Watson, author of the book 'Black Tech, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Leaders in Technology.' They discuss the importance of teaching African-American history to young students and the lack of representation of African-American figures in mainstream education. They also touch on the importance of critical thinking skills and nurturing a child's passion. Theresa shares her experiences as a parent and offers insights into effective parenting strategies. She also talks about her organization, Synergy Training Solutions, which focuses on advocating for African-American students and providing support for parents and educators. Theresa emphasizes the need for change and empowerment within the African-American community.

In this episode of Business First with Sonya Alleyne, Sonya interviews Shawn Townsend, the president and CEO of the Restaurant Association, Metropolitan Washington. They discuss the opportunities and challenges in the restaurant industry, particularly in Restaurant Association, Metropolitan Washington. Shawn shares his background in the restaurant business and his experience as the director of the mayor's office of nightlife and culture. They also talk about the impact of the pandemic on restaurants, the elimination of the tip credit system, and the future of the industry. The episode concludes with a discussion of upcoming events and resources for restaurant owners. DC Restaurant Summer Week Starts August 12, 2024

Andrea Baskett-Pee, founder of Atwasi, a Jamaican luxury travel concierge, discusses the opportunities and challenges in the tourism industry. She shares her journey of moving to Jamaica and starting a tech consultancy before transitioning into the tourism industry. Andrea emphasizes the importance of showcasing the authentic culture, history, and land of Jamaica to travelers. She also highlights the need for more equity and transparency in the tourism industry, particularly in supporting smaller businesses. Andrea plans to expand Atwasi to other Caribbean islands and eventually to parts of West Africa.

Dr. Raymona H. Lawrence is the CEO and founder of Raymona H. Lawrence Coaching, a speaker, corporate trainer, consultant, and professor of health policy and community health. She challenges broken systems that hinder people from reaching their potential, drawing from her experiences as an African-American woman with sickle cell disease. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of disrupting broken systems and creating change in communities. She works with large companies to improve engagement and build authentic connections with communities. In her work with women-owned businesses, she helps them connect the dots and build teams to ensure success. Dr. Lawrence's future focus is on building psychological safety within teams and continuing to challenge broken systems.

Chef Rock Harper discusses the importance of reclaiming culinary rights and decolonizing our tongues. He shares the history of fried chicken and its negative portrayal in media, as well as the lack of Black-owned fried chicken restaurants in the industry. Chef Rock emphasizes the need for representation and economic empowerment in the food industry. He also talks about his restaurant, Queen Mother's Fried Chicken, and the intentional use of high-quality ingredients to serve a great product. Chef Rock discusses the importance of focusing on a core product or concept in the restaurant industry, the challenges of running a restaurant with a wide variety of menu items, and the need for sufficient capital in the industry. He also shares his background and journey in the culinary world, including his time working with B. Smith. Chef Rock emphasizes the power of knowing your customer and solving their problems, as well as the importance of collaboration and maximizing revenue streams in the food business. He also discusses his future goals, including expanding into media and creating spaces for community gathering and creation.

Angelo Ellerbee discusses his work in the music industry, including his efforts to enhance communities through education and the performing arts. He shares stories of working with artists like James Mtume and Melba Moore, emphasizing the importance of relationships and mentorship. Ellerbee also talks about his book, 'Before I Let Go: Life Lessons from an Industry Guru,' which aims to inspire and motivate readers to appreciate the gift of life. He highlights the need for Black people to support and uplift each other, and shares his plans for future projects in film and TV.

Earlier this season Ted Santos joined the pod to discuss his book Here's Why You Can't Find Love. In this conversation, Ted Santos returns to discuss the problems that businesses are facing and how the pandemic has highlighted the need for a new approach. He emphasizes the importance of viewing employees as assets and investing in their development to increase their value. Ted uses examples from companies like American Express and Apple to illustrate how organizations can transform and innovate in the face of disruption. He also highlights the impact of these skills on personal relationships and suggests that businesses have the opportunity to reduce the divorce rate by training employees in conflict resolution and communication.

Kenneth Johnson, founder of East Coast Executives, discusses his work in diversity recruitment and the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in corporate America. He also shares his inspiration for creating Black Box, a career platform for Black men, and his role as a TEDx Harlem licensee. Johnson emphasizes the importance of AI in creating opportunities for marginalized communities and the need for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. He encourages entrepreneurs to dream big and highlights the power of community businesses. Listeners are encouraged to support Johnson's work by downloading the Black Box app and connecting with East Coast Executives and TEDx Harlem on social media.

Tiffany Y-esha Griffin, a TV and film producer, discusses the inspiration behind launching the ACE Network and the challenges she faced. She emphasizes the need for positive and empowering content in the media and shares insights on her creative process and the importance of taking action. Tiffany also provides details on how to support the ACE Network through various platforms.

Robert Blackwell Jr. discusses the importance of entrepreneurial participation in the modern economy to address poverty in the black community. He emphasizes the need for black entrepreneurs to create an aspirational roadmap for young people and advocates for doing business with black entrepreneurs in proportion to their talent. He challenges the effectiveness of diversity and equity programs and highlights the historical role of black entrepreneurs in funding movements and creating economic opportunities. He also addresses the principles of business and the need for customer engagement in local businesses. Robert Blackwell Jr shares insights on business, civil rights, and community development. He emphasizes the importance of following successful models, training people to think, and solving emotional or financial problems in business. He also discusses the impact of the civil rights movement and the need for economic integration. Additionally, he shares his journey of starting a table tennis company and the importance of love and money in business.

Larisse Brown, founder of C-Track Training, discusses the importance of communication and leadership skills in the workplace. She shares her background and how she realized the need for better communication skills after focusing solely on academics. Brown emphasizes the significance of effective communication in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and influencing others. She also highlights the importance of self-leadership and being assertive in the workplace. Brown's coaching business focuses on helping women develop their communication and leadership skills, navigate office politics, and establish themselves as valuable contributors in their organizations.

In this conversation, the owners of Peel Haus, an aesthetic and plastic surgery center on Capitol Hill, discuss the business of aesthetic and plastic surgery. They talk about the growth of the industry, the influence of social media and technology, the importance of inclusivity, and their journey of starting the business. They also highlight the unique aspects of their practice and the positive response from the community. Peel Haus Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery is a medical spa located in Washington, D.C. The founders, Wendy Pittman, Sorelle Cooper, and Sonya Lowery-Young, each bring unique expertise to the business. Wendy has 24 years of experience in the aesthetic medicine industry and played a role in the development of Botox Cosmetic. Sorelle is a family nurse practitioner with a background in family medicine and a passion for aesthetics. Sonya has a background in graphics and beautification and became an esthetician later in life. The team at Peel Haus is focused on providing evidence-based, scientifically proven treatments and therapies that enhance the natural appearance of their patients. They are also interested in the future of aesthetics, including regenerative medicine and biohacking.

In this conversation, the owners of Peel Haus, an aesthetic and plastic surgery center on Capitol Hill, discuss the business of aesthetic and plastic surgery. They talk about the growth of the industry, the influence of social media and technology, the importance of inclusivity, and their journey of starting the business. They also highlight the unique aspects of their practice and the positive response from the community. Peel Haus Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery is a medical spa located in Washington, D.C. The founders, Wendy Pittman, Sorelle Cooper, and Sonya, each bring unique expertise to the business. Wendy has 24 years of experience in the aesthetic medicine industry and played a role in the development of Botox Cosmetic. Sorelle is a family nurse practitioner with a background in family medicine and a passion for aesthetics. Sonya has a background in graphics and beautification and became an esthetician later in life. The team at Peel Haus is focused on providing evidence-based, scientifically proven treatments and therapies that enhance the natural appearance of their patients. They are also interested in the future of aesthetics, including regenerative medicine and biohacking.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne talks Digital Marketing with Brenton Thomas, the founder and CEO of Twibi, a digital marketing company. They discuss the evolution of marketing over the past decade, the challenges faced by small businesses in understanding and implementing digital marketing strategies, and the importance of balancing the art and science of marketing. Brenton also shares insights on the use of AI in marketing and the need for businesses to stay updated with the rapidly changing digital landscape. He offers advice on using Google Ads and Facebook Ads for lead generation and revenue generation, respectively.

Nicole Smith, founder of Smitten, discusses the importance of coaching and being good to oneself in both personal and professional life. She emphasizes the need for compassionate listening and giving yourself permission to change and evolve. Nicole shares her own journey from working in the entertainment and sports industries to becoming a coach. She encourages individuals to tap into their desires and develop the skill of taking risks.

In this conversation, Sonia Alleyne speaks to Dave Wooley, a director, producer, author, and serial entrepreneur. They discuss his recent documentary, Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over, and his experiences working with legendary musicians. Wooley shares his journey from starting a business at nine years old to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, overcoming fear, and taking risks. Wooley also talks about the challenges of making the documentary and the trust he built with Dionne Warwick. He encourages listeners to follow their dreams and not give up.

In this conversation, Kia Weatherspoon, founder and CEO of Determined By Design, discusses her approach to design and advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and confidence in her work, rejecting the idea of being limited to speaking during Black History Month. Kia shares how her experiences visiting prisons and serving in the military inspired her to create spaces that are humane and uplifting. She highlights the need for design to address the needs of low-income communities and challenges biases in the industry. Kia's design process is rooted in the narratives and histories of neighborhoods, creating spaces that reflect the essence of the people who inhabit them. Kia discusses the power of design and the impact it can have on people's lives. She shares stories of the positive responses she has received from individuals who have experienced her designs. Kia emphasizes the importance of design in creating equitable spaces and the need for diversity in the industry. She also talks about the significance of trademarking and protecting intellectual property. Kia addresses the challenges faced by major companies in achieving diversity and provides practical steps for creating a more inclusive environment. She shares her experiences in the military and how they have shaped her approach to leadership. Finally, Kia highlights the importance of mental health and the role of therapy in maintaining well-being while advocating for change.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne chats with Vicky Brown, the CEO of eDomineo, Inc., an HR consulting company. They discuss the challenges of staffing for small businesses and the importance of mindset and job descriptions. Vicky shares her background and the story of how she started her own business. They also talk about the role of leadership in employee engagement and the importance of promoting employees. Vicky provides insights into managing family members in the business and offers advice for small business owners.

Summary In this episode, Sonia Alleyne interviews Nadine Gale, an attorney and communication strategist, about the importance of making real connections and networking. They discuss the narrative of independence and the challenge of asking for help, particularly for black women. Nadine emphasizes the need for community and reframing networking as community building. They also explore the importance of knowing oneself, being authentic, and nurturing relationships. Nadine suggests joining organizations and finding one's tribe as ways to build connections.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne interviews Serena Quick, the first Black woman to own a Chick-fil-A franchise in the Pennsylvania tri-state area. Serena shares her journey from being a serial entrepreneur to owning a Chick-fil-A franchise, highlighting the importance of mentors and inspiration. She discusses her upbringing in a tough environment and how she overcame challenges to pursue her dreams. Serena emphasizes the significance of understanding every aspect of a business and the value of self-care and rest. She also shares the impact of coaching and therapy in her personal and professional development. Serena concludes with her powerful legacy statement.

Summary In this episode, Sonia Alleyne interviews Matthew Scott, a business investment and personal finance journalist, about small business tax breaks. They discuss the challenges small businesses face in getting their paperwork together for tax obligations and the importance of record keeping. Matthew shares a list of 10 tax breaks that almost anyone can benefit from, including internet and phone expenses, subscription costs, travel expenses, meals, auto expenses, health insurance, marketing and advertising, education, interest payments, and legal and professional fees. He emphasizes the need for good record keeping to track expenses and maximize deductions. The episode concludes with Sonia expressing her gratitude for Matthew's expertise and the possibility of having him back on the show in the future.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne has a conversation with Sonia Francis, the CEO and founder of Body Sculpting by Simone. They discuss the importance of post-op care in body sculpting procedures and the lack of awareness about its significance. Sonia shares her background as a nurse and how it led her to start her own business. She also talks about the challenges she faced in building the business and her plans for expansion.

Best friends turned business partners, Taia Rashid and Dapahne Carter, share their journey of starting a liquor company called Cashid Beverage. They discuss the importance of faith, having expectancy over fear, and the support of their husbands in their entrepreneurial journey. They emphasize the value of building strong partnerships and the need for open communication and understanding. The duo also talks about the inspiration behind their brand, the experience, and their plans for future expansion. Their story serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges. In this conversation, Daphane Carter and Taia Rashid discuss their brand Daphne Lemoncello and their journey as entrepreneurs. They talk about their potential book, the challenges of simply preparing family dinners, and their love for cocktails.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne talks with Ryane LeCesne, a mindset coach and founder of Inspire Brand Consulting. They discuss the importance of mindset in achieving success and overcoming self-doubt. Ryan shares her personal journey and the influences that led her to become a coach. They explore the concept of victimhood and how it can hinder personal growth. Ryan emphasizes the need to embrace one's brilliance and not hide it. The conversation highlights the importance of self-talk and developing a positive inner dialogue.

In this conversation, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson discusses her journey as an entrepreneur and the importance of execution, understanding your superpower, and building a strong team. She also addresses the challenges and opportunities for Black businesses in the beauty industry. Kendra shares insights into her company, Brain Trust, and its various offshoots, including the Brain Trust Founder Studio and Brain Trust Fund. She emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and staying grounded in personal values. Listeners are encouraged to connect with Kendra through her website and social media channels. Also in this conversation, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson discusses her book 'The Beauty of Success' and shares insights on building a personal brand, the power of networking, and her upcoming book tour.

In this conversation, Tara DeVeaux, the CEO of Burrell Communications Group, discusses the importance of black businesses and the challenges they face in the advertising industry. She highlights the evolution of the industry and the changing landscape of marketing, emphasizing the need for understanding and representing the black audience. DeVeaux also emphasizes the role of creativity and storytelling in branding, as well as the concept of immersion in creating engaging brand experiences. She shares insights on aligning with larger brands and maintaining work-life balance. DeVeaux concludes by expressing her vision for Burrell and the legacy she hopes to leave.

Join Sonia as she shares more from her upcoming book on branding your business.

This week Sonia welcomes Tiffany Houser. Tiffany is passionate about people and transformation. As an executive & leadership coach, entrepreneur, and a woman of color, Tiffany knows firsthand about the roller coaster ride of self-worth. As the founder of EVOLVE, Tiffany coaches senior leaders who are ready to experience powerful breakthroughs around their self-worth, authentic leadership style, vision, and purpose. Listen and evolve your business from the great conversation on the Business First Podcast.

In this episode of the Business First Podcast, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with the extraordinary Salma Salma Qarnain, a true powerhouse and pioneer in the worlds of both entertainment and science. Salma Qarnain is not your typical Hollywood success story; she's an award-winning actress, producer, a rocket scientist, and a co-founder of Black Man Films. But she's so much more than just her impressive titles. Salma's journey is a remarkable one. As a rocket scientist, she's been at the forefront of groundbreaking technological advancements. And as an actress, she recently completed a major Broadway stage play for "Life of PI," a testament to her versatility and talent in the entertainment industry. However, what truly sets Salma apart is her unwavering commitment to improving authentic representation for Black People and South Asians in Hollywood. She's on a mission to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes, striving to create a more inclusive and diverse Hollywood landscape. Salma's unique perspective, experience, and vision make her a force to be reckoned with in both business and entertainment. Join us as we delve into the life and career of Salma Salma Qarnain, and discover the inspiring story of a woman who's changing the game and making waves in multiple industries. You don't want to miss this captivating conversation about pushing boundaries and redefining success.

Treats and Tricks here as Sonia goes one on one with you on how to build your brand. Listen in right now to the Business First podcast hosted by Sonia Alleyne.