The Goal Standard

Suprise! I'm pregnant!  In this episode I'm talking all about the ups and downs of pregnancy as an entrepreneur, why I just up and stopped podcasting, and what you can expect from The Goal Standard moving forward. Ready to start your podcast? Grab The Podcast Launch Kit! A simple, step-by-step guide to help you set up and launch your podcast.  https://thegoalstandard.co/launchkit

Atiyah McDaniels dropped out of college three times. The first time, she went for fashion designing. The second time, she went for business.  The third time, she went for communications. It just wasn't for her.   Literally 2 months after dropping out the last time, she had already started her hair business. People would always ask her where she would get her hair extensions from and thought that people should definitely pay her for it.   She set herself apart by creating a professional, upscale and chic brand right from the beginning.  She used her sales skills to bring in revenue and by the end of the first year, she grew over 6 figures.   She's not only in the hair business, but she's also mentoring young entrepreneurs on how to start and grow their business.  I love Atiyah's story because she took her life into her own hands.  Most of us don't realize it until we're $30k in debt. If you're out there looking for a different path, or you're feeling like the life you're living isn't for you, you'll love this episode!   Reach out! Atiyah McDaniels  Email: mtrlgirl@intense-beaute.com  | Instagram: @mtrlgirl and @intensebeaute | Website: www.intense-beaute.com | www.mtrl-girl.com   The Goal Standard Podcast Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_

Have you ever found yourself having conversations so deep with friends and family that you thought someone else should hear the conversation? Do you have strong opinions about specific topics and want your voice to be heard? Are you a professional that wants to tell the world about your profession and allow them to see it in a different light? Do you have a brand and want to reach more people? If you answered yes to any of these, podcasting may be for you. In this episode, I am helping you to figure out if podcasting is the best way to get your thoughts and opinions out into the world. In this episode I discuss: Why I started a podcast Who podcasting is for Why I chose podcasting over other mediums How podcasting can help you grow your brand   Stay in touch! Instagram: @goalstandard_

This week we replayed our episode with Shauntay Parrish of The Glam Kitchen who talks about getting laid off, to creating her food blog and everything in between. She used getting laid off as an opportunity to learn how to blog and demonstrate share her love of cooking to the world. Her blog took off.  That's how The Glam Kitchen was born.  The Glam Kitchen is an online food blog inspiring millennials to be more comfortable in the kitchen.  If you already follow Shauntay, you know her food is mouth-watering!  It's been a labor of love for Shauntay, and she's grown it to over 71k followers on Instagram and has even catered for celebrities like Jess Hilarious. Shaunte has always loved cooking and creating meals for her friends and family, but she never really thought that she could grow her brand into what it is today. Shaunte's story is so interesting because Food Entrepreneurship is quite new, and just starting to take off.  Shaunte is now successfully balancing her 9 to 5 and The Glam Kitchen while working toward becoming a full-time entrepreneur. For anyone looking for tips and advice on how to balance both your passion and your profession, this episode is for you!  How she monetized her blog from the beginning How her catering business started from a celebrity reaching out to her  How to consistently create content that your audience wants.  How to successfully balance your job and business What it's really like to transition to from a 9 to 5  into full-time entrepreneurship   Reach out! The Glam Kitchen Website: theglamkitchen.com | Email: theglamkitchen@gmail.com | Instagram: @theglamkitchen    The Goal Standard Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

This week on the podcast, we have Mimi Johnson, founder of Grind Pretty and the Glamatory. Mimi started her career as a makeup artist and now she helps other women to figure out their passion. If you are transitioning from one field to another, this is the episode for you.    Reach out! Mimi Johnson Instagram: @mimijonline

This week, I'm chatting with my sister Kori about our new business, Temp & Honey! Temp & Honey is a branding and template company for female entrepreneurs. We talk all about our journey to getting the business started.   Follow us! Temp & Honey Instagram: @tempandhoney

Sierra Howard of the I Don't Do Budgets Podcast talks about how she went from 9k in debt to secretly paying it all off.  Sierra talks about how she started developing a really bad spending habit in college and how it got out of control.  It got to the point where she was actually embarrassed to talk to her partner about how much debt she was in. I'm so happy she talked about this because so many of us hide our debt in shame instead of bringing it out to light.   Sierra took everything she learned and now helps people who are in a similar position as her get out of debt and grow their savings and investment portfolio.   Then, she started the I Don't Do Budgets podcast to share stories, advice, and insight into how we look at money.   Here's what we talk about:  How money is talked about in the Black Community  The moment she realized she needed to do something about her debt  How her experience has allowed her to make a business out of helping other people to get out of debt  Why Sierra doesn't do budgets How going into Sephora without a plan is always a   Reach out! Sierra Howard Email: hi@idontdobudgets.com  | Instagram: @idontdobudgets | Website: idontdobudgets.com

On this week's episode, we'll be hearing from Perri Furbert, founder of Gold, the Label. She shares her journey of creating the label from scratch and growing it herself. Perri has had the honor of having her items worn by celebrities such as Ayesha Curry and Charlamagne the God. If you are from a small town trying to make it, this is the episode for you.

If you've ever been told that you can't have a job and run a successful business, Dr. Tega Edwin is here on this week's episode to tell you why that's not true! She changed her career path after realizing she didn't want to be miserable for the rest of her life. She talks to us about how we can do the same!

This week we are talking to Elisha Mcghee, founder of Page Eleven Paper Goods. Despite being afraid and doubting herself, Elisha pushed forward and has been able to get her stationery items into major stores such as Target, TjMaxx, and Marshalls. If you have been doubting yourself and your dreams this is the episode for you.   Reach out! Page Eleven Paper Goods: Instagram-@pageelevenpapergoods Website: https://www.pageelevenpapergoods.com/   The Goal Standard: @goalstandard_ Website: www.thegoalstandard.co

If you're like the majority of us, you probably have a side passion or project that doesn't yet make money, but you've been trying to figure out how to make it work, this episode is for you!   We're talking to Ebony Staten, Tech exec and founder of The Vogue Room, an interior design company dedicated to creating chic, vibrant, and high fashion living spaces.   Ebony walks us through how she started with her interior design passion from when she decorated her first college apartment (I wish she could have helped me decorate mine!).    Not long after, Ebony's business grew within the Charlotte area and has created The Vogue Room Foundation, a full design, and installation for first-gen female college students.  and she had to learn quickly how to balance her WFH tech job with a growing interior design brand.    What we love about Ebony's work is that it really creates spaces that incorporate the personal style and culture of her clients.    If you're trying to balance your passion/project with your full-time job, or you just want some tips on how to make a more comfortable, safe space since you'll be working from home more, this episode is definitely for you.    Here's what we talk about How to balance corporate life and entrepreneurship Why networking is the key to success How to monetize your projects and passions  Steps to create a comfortable, welcoming WFH space in your home Reach Out!   Ebony Staten Website: thevogueroom.co | Instagram: @thevogueroom    The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_   

This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary stories of teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support! In this episode, we’re speaking to Candace June, marketing consultant and founder of Epic Fab Girl, a community for women entrepreneurs.  Candace always had the entrepreneurial spirit, but decided to take the traditional route.  In the beginning of her career, she was recruited to one of the top consulting firms in the US, and realized that she needed to trust in her faith and follow her calling.   After leaving her job with the exact amount of money she needed, she was able to grow her current brand and business into what it is today.  Now, Candace helps other women entrepreneurs to do the same thing.     Here’s what we talk about   Why you should jump out on faith  The biggest marketing mistakes entrepreneurs make  Why following the traditional career trajectory isn’t for everyone Why community is so important Reach Out! Candace Junée | Epic Fab Girl Website: epicfabgirl.com | Instagram: @candacejunee Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

In this episode, we’re talking to Jordan Gustus about her journey into entrepreneurship, and how she grew her branding company to what it is today.  Jordan was working full-time and running her business full time, but she got to the point where she wanted to only work on her business while she was at work.   Eventually, she decided to let go of her job and focus solely on her business.  Like so many of us, Jordan was nervous that at some point she might have to go back to work, but she did it anyway!  Jordan reminds us of the importance of using our time to follow our dreams versus watching them pass us by.  If you’re looking for the inspiration you need to focus on starting and growing your business, or if you’re looking for advice on how to create a strategy behind your visual brand, this episode is for you.  Here’s what we talk about Why starting from nothing is better than not starting How to create a strategy behind your visual brand Why you should charge your worth  How to quit your job and go full-time into you   Reach Out! Jordan Gustus  Website: thejordanariel.com | Instagram: @thejordanariel   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

While starting and growing a business has been great for so many of us, LLC Twitter and so many other people make it seem like you HAVE  to choose.  That’s actually not the case.  You can have both and still love your life.   Just ask Terissa Stewart, tech professional and entrepreneur.  In this episode, Terri gives us the real deal on how she couldn’t figure out how to balance both entrepreneurship and her full-time job at the same time until she got the help she needed.  Now, she’s working in a job she loves while running a social media management business and hosting a podcast helping millennials get better with their money.   If you’re struggling with feeling like you can’t have a 9 - 5 and a business, or you want to know how to balance both, this episode is for you!  This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary stories of teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support!   Here’s what we talk about   Top mistakes entrepreneurs make when they start their business Why you should invest in a business coach  How to balance your career and your business   Reach Out!   Terissa Stewart | 10th Social | The Sovereign Life Instagram: @terri2kool   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary stories of teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support! This week, we’re speaking with Jen & Jay, the founders of Hustle & Heels UK - an organization that aims to support women starting their businesses in the UK and around the world.  The dope thing about this story is that they started Hustle & heels as a way to promote their hair business, but it eventually took on a life of its own.  Now, Hustle & Heels has a community of over 17k women around the world and has also worked with local governments in the UK to develop programs for entrepreneurs. If you’ve had an idea for a while or you want to know more about how to pivot careers, this episode is perfect for you.    Here’s what we talk about How to make mistakes and still get back up  The importance of relationship building Why you need a community to help you grow your business and brand Why investment and support is important when it comes to growing your business.  Reach Out!   Jen & Jay | Hustle & Heels  Website: hhll.co.uk | Instagram: @hhlluk   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support! Representation matters in all areas, but especially in modern media.  In the last few years, we’ve seen a huge increase in the amount of online media created specifically for black women, but only a few have been created in a way that can capture the nuances, struggles, and challenges that we all face.  Black Ballad has done this so well.    This is why I am so excited to have Tobi Oredein, founder of Black Ballad,a UK based digital platform for Black women on the podcast this week.   Black Ballad was created due to Tobi’s realization of the lack of diversity in mainstream media in the UK. Her goal with the platform is to “help Black women in Britain live their best lives”, and I am here for it!   Tobi’s journey to creating Black Ballad is also inspirational as it highlights the challenges that Black Women face in the media industry both as corporate professionals and entrepreneurs.    In this episode we talk about:   How Tobi created her media company Tobi’s experiences as a Black Woman in the UK What it is like to work with brands as a black woman How to get sponsorships from major corporations If you are interested in starting a business, creating a community, or making sacrifices for your dreams, this is the episode for you! Reach out Tobi Oredein: Instagram @iamtobioredein @blackballaduk Website: https://blackballad.co.uk/  The Goal Standard: Instagram- @goalstandard_ Website: www.thegoalstandard.co  

This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support! I'm sure you've heard the saying "You're the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with" by John Rahn. But how important is our community when it comes to being successful? I wanted to investigate how true this really was. I looked at some research being done, and I found out that community and your environment play a huge role in how successful you are. ​In a study done by the New England Journal of Medicine on obesity and social networks, researchers found that a person had a 57% chance of being obese if a close was obese. This shows just how much influence those around us have on who we become as people. But it's not only about our bodies. The reality is that we spend our time and energy, which shape our subconscious mind, exposes us to new ways of thinking, and show us what's possible or not. We may even pick up new habits. So it's so important to make sure the people around us are bringing us closer to success and not further away from it. I'm a big believer that we need people in our inner circle to support, challenge, and inspire us to do better, and that’s what we’re talking about in this live episode.   Here’s what we talk about When I first realized how important your circle is  How to know if you have the right people around you  Why you should focus on creating a small circle of winners Reach Out! Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

This episode of The Goal Standard is supported by Remote Works, a podcast that tells extraordinary stories of teams that made the shift to flexible working. Click here to listen and learn more about this podcast.  Many thanks to Remote Works for their support! In this episode, we’re speaking with Jessica Chinyelu about her journey from club promoting and working with Ciroc to helping influencers, podcasters, and other entrepreneurs with sponsorships. What I love about her story is that when you hear where Jessica started from, it’s hard to see how she transitioned to where she is now.    When you listen to the episode, you’ll be able to see the breadcrumbs and stepping stones that following her faith created.    Jessica’s journey is really important for those of us who are unsure about what our next step in life is, and for those of us who are unsure about what we’re able to accomplish because she shows that every step of the journey gives us the skills we need to get where we need to be. There are so many ways that we can use our skills and gifts, and I love that Jessica was not afraid to keep going and figure out what works for her!    AND as a bonus, Jessica is dropping so many gems around securing sponsorships, so if you’re an influencer or entrepreneur looking to work with brands, you’re going to get so much out of these episodes! Here’s what we talk about   How having faith can actually help you achieve your goals  Why you don’t have to have it all figured out when you start  How to pivot in your career  The biggest misconceptions when it comes to getting sponsors  Why you don’t need a huge following to secure paid sponsorships What partners are ACTUALLY looking for from partnerships Reach Out!   Jessica Chinyelu | The Sponsorship Lady Website: thesponsorshiplady.com | Instagram: @thesponsorshiplady   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

This week we are taking it back to one of my favorite episodes with business coach Jasmine Green.  A huge part of Jasmine's story is that she gave up an opportunity to go to Medical School.  She realized it just wasn’t right for her.  Just as quickly as Jasmine made that decision, she went from a path of financial and professional security as a doctor to starting over from scratch. Jasmine went through a turbulent time trying to figure out what she was meant to do.  She quickly got caught up in a bunch of dead-end jobs, just trying to survive. Jasmine had no sense of direction, identity, and was completely lost and alone. She hit her rock bottom when she ended a relationship and had to up move back home with all of her belongings.  For most people, this would have been enough to put aside any vision of a successful future, but Jasmine always knew that she was meant for more.  So she put a plan in place to live the life she knew she deserved.   Jasmine’s story is so incredibly impactful because no matter what circumstances she was in, she never wavered from doing the work it takes to figure out one's purpose.  She had so many career pivots before she got to where she is today.  Now, Jasmine is working as a successful 7-figure sales coach helping business owners reach multiple six figures. Her purpose is to help her clients become who they need to be to in order to earn the results they desire.  The best part of it all is, Jasmine no longer has to continue to seek and search for clients, opportunities, or income - they all come to her.   Here are some key takeaways How to be secure in your decisionmaking  How to surround yourself with people and resources that are going to uplevel you  Why you need to listen to your intuition to discover your purpose Reach out! Instagram: @goalstandard_

In this week's episode, we are diving into procrastination and how it affects us in our day-to-day lives. We all procrastinate, and it's not for the reasons you think. We've heard the stories about it being in our nature or the fact that we work better under pressure. BUT... Studies show that the real reason for procrastination actually has to do with our emotions. It has more to do with not wanting to experience a certain emotion that we believe will manifest when we start doing what we're supposed to. Pretty deep right? In this episode we discuss: The real reasons why we procrastinate Ways that we can clear our minds and “slay the procrastination dragon” What the professionals have to say about procrastination and how we can fix it If you suffer from procrastination the way I do, this episode may help you to understand that you’re not alone, and also give tips on how to be more productive and how to properly handle moments where procrastination is taking over.   Reach Out!   The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_   . 

This week we are speaking with Aisha Beau Johnson, Digital Content Creator, and Influencer. Aisha specializes in beauty, wellness, travel, and mental health.  In 2016, after being stopped on numerous occasions by fellow women of color inquiring about her makeup and skincare routine, Aisha decided it was time to create her own platform. AishaBeau.com originated as a beauty blog, but slowly manifested itself into a digital destination covering self-care as a whole. From beauty to lifestyle, and personal development, each post emphasizes the importance of internal and external well-being. Aisha’s writing about mental health and personal development has been featured on FastCompany.com, SUCCESS.com, the Shine Text App, Zora Mag, Forge Magazine, Black Girl In Om, and more. Aisha is also working on her debut book.   In this episode we discuss: Resources she learned during her journey Tips on becoming an influencer and creating your brand How she quit her job without a plan and still became successful If you want insight into the life of an influencer including the struggles and challenges or if you are thinking about leaving a position you dislike to do something you love, this episode is for you. Reach Out! Aisha Beau Johnson Instagram: @aishabeau | Website: www.aishabeau.com/ The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_   

This week I decided to take it back and rewind to the chat all about Impostor Syndrome and how it shows up in our lives and businesses especially. Impostor syndrome is something that I’ve dealt with in my previous career, as a wife, and in my current business. You would think that because I’ve had so much success, that I’d have it all together but sis that is the furthest thing from true! In this episode I discuss: My battle with impostor syndrome and how I learned to manage it What happens when impostor syndrome creeps in and how to “get rid of it” How to recognize impostor syndrome when it shows up in your everyday life We are going to get through this together! Reach out! IG: @goalstandard_

In this episode, we’re talking to Jordan Gustus about her journey into entrepreneurship, and how she grew her branding company to what it is today.  Jordan was working full-time and running her business full time, but she got to the point where she wanted to only work on her business while she was at work.   Eventually, she decided to let go of her job and focus solely on her business.  Like so many of us, Jordan was nervous that at some point she might have to go back to work, but she did it anyway!  Jordan reminds us of the importance of using our time to follow our dreams versus watching them pass us by.  If you’re looking for the inspiration you need to focus on starting and growing your business, or if you’re looking for advice on how to create a strategy behind your visual brand, this episode is for you.    Here’s what we talk about Why starting from nothing is better than not starting How to create a strategy behind your visual brand Why you should charge your worth  How to quit your job and go full-time into you   Reach Out!   Jordan Gustus  Website: thejordanariel.com | Instagram: @thejordanariel   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_

In this episode, we’re talking to Kharmika Alston, a Former US diplomat who made a major career pivot into Real Estate.    Kharmika is the founder of Live, Love Durham, a real estate brokerage which believes in transforming our community and creating new cycles of generational wealth.    Before she made the Pivot, Kharmika’s job was working as a US diplomat across the world, including Mexico and Amsterdam. Of course, as a Young Black Woman in this field, there were plenty of difficulties dealing with being treated a certain way within the organization, and promoting policies that she didn’t necessarily agree with.   Right before her last appointment, she realized she couldn’t do it anymore.  So she packed her bags, moved back to North Carolina, and began to figure out her next step.     She’s always wanted to invest and get serious about wealth generation, and she realized that housing prices in Durham NC were increasing.  She wanted something that would give her the entrepreneurial aspect while being able to invest and help build generational wealth within her community.    It wasn’t easy.  It was a lot of work, but she made it happen.  You’ll hear Kharmika give the details on how to make it happen for yourself.  Here’s what we talk about   Why the Real Estate exam doesn’t prepare you for the real world How to go from beginning Real Estate Agent to Successful Real Estate Agent The diversity of the Real Estate Industry How to pivot in your career  How to use social media to sell homes   Reach Out!   Kharmika Alston | Live Love Durham Website: livelovedurham.com | Instagram: @livelovedurham   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_   

Super excited for this episode because it’s with one of my best friends, Shonitria Anthony.  Shonitria is the founder of the Blunt Blowin’ Mama brand.  It’s a podcast, clothing company, and movement for moms who smoke weed, and one of the few Black Woman-Owned brands in the weedpreneur industry. What I love about Shonitria’s brand is that she dispels a lot of the myths around smoking weed during a pregnancy (and how that doesn’t make you a bad mom).  Not only this, but she’s sharing how she ended up getting into the weed industry, the challenges she’s faced, and the advice she gives to anyone wanting to get into this space.  Here’s what we talk about What it’s like being a Black Woman in the weed industry How to leverage what you learn in your 9 to 5 in your business How to know when it’s time to push toward your dreams The misconceptions around moms who smoke weed during pregnancy and breastfeeding Reach Out! Shonitria Anthony | Blunt Blowin’ Mama Website: bluntblowinama.com | Instagram: bluntblowinmama & bbmclothingline   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

We hit 100 episodes!!!  I told myself when I started this podcast that I would do 100 episodes before I quit.  First of all I didn’t think it would take this long to get to this point, but I also can’t believe what we’ve achieved.    Through all the hard work, frustration, wins, and losses, I always tried to maintain some sort of work-life balance.  That was a struggle.  Why?  Because we’re so used to being overworked!    In this episode, I’m sharing some of the research that I did on why we feel the need to work ourselves to the bone, the health implications of this, and what we can do change our mindset.    If you find yourself using overworking as a badge of honor, this is for you!  Here’s what we talk about   The Black Superwoman Complex  Why overworking is a status symbol in 2021 How being overworked is shaving years off your life  How to recognize when you’re overworked The steps you can take to get back to a healthy balance Reach Out!   Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_   

I first met Toneisha while we were both living in Singapore. I was immediately impressed by how she was able to balance working hard in her career, start her business and live her best life at the same time (we were lit in our Pre-Corona, Southeast Asia days!). That’s exactly why I wanted to have her on the show!  In this episode, Toneisha Friday proves that you CAN have it all if you’re willing to work for it. As a communications professional and entrepreneur, she’s sharing her journey, successes, and challenges.  Get your pen and paper out because she’s also giving us tips on how she manages to do it so well.     Her business Blex Technologies is an ecosystem of solutions that helps to empower the black community to take control of their sexual health and wellness.  Essentially, it’s resources for us, by us.   There’s real-time support given by qualified coaches through the app, and There’s also Blex Box, which includes products to help with sexual exploration for yourself and your partner.    The most amazing part of all of this is not the quality brand that Toneisha has built, but the fact that she was able to do this while working a highly demanding job at a global company. AND living her best life.  We were traveling and turnt!    If you’re looking to figure out how you can continue to climb the corporate ladder, live your best life and start your business, this episode is for you.  AND  If you’re looking for more resources about sexual health and wellness, she shares a little advice on this too Here’s what we talk about How to use your 9 to 5 to fund your business Why you need people smarter than you on your team How to outsource all the things that you need to Some of the biggest issues with sex in the black community How to prove yourself in a huge company  Why mentors are key to your success and how to secure the right sponsor   Interested in a blexBox? Currently, they have a revamped Valentine’s Day blexBox available and they're offering 10% off everything this month using the code ‘BLACKHISTORY’   Reach Out! Toneisha Friday Website: blextechnologies.com | Business Instagram: @blex_app | Personal Instagram: @toneisharenae Lene | The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

We had the opportunity to speak with our brand Jakiya Brown Thiaw, founder of The Travelingfro in this episode. Jakiya helped us with The Goal Standard brand, and we love sharing people we know who are amazing at what they do.  We talked to Jakiya about her incredible story, from growing up in North Carolina, to moving to NYC for her dream job at one of the biggest beauty brands in the world.   Even at the points where most stories end, (dream job in the big city), Jakiya’s was just beginning.   After getting bit by the traveling bug, Jakiya took every opportunity she could to see the world until she realized she wanted to travel full time.  She put a plan into place, packed her stuff, and went off on an adventure, slowly but surely creating a brand that would help her finance her adventures.  Now, Jakiya has settled on the content and focuses on helping struggling millennials turn their passion into a dream job and transition into a life of doing more of what they love.  In other words, Jakiya is a brand wiz that helps millennial entrepreneurs get clear and focused on their brand.   We know because she did an incredible job at helping us at The Goal Standard get our whole life together  So if you’re trying to figure out if you should make the job into a new career path, or if you want tips on how to strengthen your personal or business brand, this episode is for you.    Here’s what we talk about How being different can mean that you’re meant for something more How to create a realistic strategy to quit your job and travel the world  The keys to creating a strong brand that resonates with your audience How you can work with Jakiya to get clear on your own brand Reach Out! Jakiya Brown Thiaw Website: Thetravelingfro.com/somethingscoming | Instagram: @travelingfro  The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

If you’re like the majority of us, you probably have a side passion or project that doesn’t yet make money, but you’ve been trying to figure out how to make it work, this episode is for you!   We’re talking to Ebony Staten, Tech exec and founder of The Vogue Room, an interior design company dedicated to creating chic, vibrant, and high fashion living spaces.   Ebony walks us through how she started with her interior design passion from when she decorated her first college apartment (I wish she could have helped me decorate mine!).    Not long after, Ebony’s business grew within the Charlotte area and has created The Vogue Room Foundation, a full design, and installation for first-gen female college students.  and she had to learn quickly how to balance her WFH tech job with a growing interior design brand.    What we love about Ebony’s work is that it really creates spaces that incorporate the personal style and culture of her clients.    If you’re trying to balance your passion/project with your full-time job, or you just want some tips on how to make a more comfortable, safe space since you’ll be working from home more, this episode is definitely for you.    Here’s what we talk about How to balance corporate life and entrepreneurship Why networking is the key to success How to monetize your projects and passions  Steps to create a comfortable, welcoming WFH space in your home Reach Out!   Ebony Staten Website: thevogueroom.co | Instagram: @thevogueroom    The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% what you do about it.  That’s exactly what led our guest Dawn Fitch to create her bath and body brand, Pooka Pure and Simple.  Dawn was working her dream job at Sony Music when she fell ill with MS. Throughout her journey of coming to terms with the illness, She started creating products that would help her adopt a healthier lifestyle.   This led to her creating products to sell to her community, once she realized she had a dope business idea.  Starting with selling at small markets to growing an online brand, Dawn takes us through her story as an entrepreneur, including getting featured as one of the top 20 black beauty brands in Essence, and how she managed to grow her online community, The Best Life Tribe to over 2,400 women.  Dawn’s story is a great reminder that you cannot let what happens to you control you, and you can make the best out of some really difficult situations.  If you’ve been going through a personal struggle, and you want some advice or inspiration on how to turn your situation around for the better, this episode is definitely for you.    Here’s what we talk about  What it’s like to work for a top tier company and how to set yourself apart in the corporate world How dealing with personal struggles can work out for the better What it’s like to be a new entrepreneur  How to make a huge career pivot  How to create an engaging online community Reach Out! Dawn Fitch  Website: pookapureandsimple.com | Instagram: @dawnfitchofficial    The Goal Standard Website: thegoalstandard.co | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

In this episode, we’re talking to Gaynete Jones, an entrepreneur who has seen major success in the online space as a service provider. She’s been featured in Black Enterprise and so many other publications and now she has created a product that’s about to revolutionize the way that women deal with their periods each month. She’s switching to a product-based business and she’s showing us step by step how she was able to do it including a lot of challenges that she faced along the way.     We discuss: What it’s like going from a service-based business to owning a product-based business Differences she has experienced between service and product businesses The importance of educating your audience about your product Deciding what to sell as a product   Stay connected! Instagram: @gaynete| @best.periodt Website: www.gaynete.com | www.bestperiodt.com    The Goal Standard Instagram: @goalstandard_ Website: www.thegoalstandard.co

On today’s episode, The Goal Standard founder Lene Green shares how 2020 impacted her, including quitting her full-time job to focus on her business. She’s giving you an inside look at what went right and what went all the way wrong in her life this year.   In this episode we talk about: What it’s really like to quit your job during a pandemic  The best way to reflect on your past year How she got ghosted by someone she hired What it’s like to hire friends What it’s like to live in Japan  The first year of marriage and what she learned What The Goal Standard is planning for 2021 Reach out!   The Goal Standard Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_ | Twitter: @goalstandard_ 

This week, we’re taking it back to our conversation with Chris-Tia Donaldson, the founder of Thank God It’s Natural, a manufacturer of natural hair products. Chris-Tia shares her journey through the corporate world as a lawyer, running a successful business, and surviving breast cancer.    What makes Chris-Tia’s story so amazing is that she’s had to juggle everything that life threw at her while fighting breast cancer. She talks about keeping her faith and balance, life after becoming a survivor, and what she learned along the way.    Here’s what we talk about: What it’s like to balance your side hustle and your business Surviving breast cancer  The importance of actually dealing with your issues instead of suppressing them  What it's like to be a black woman in corporate America Starting a company from scratch   Chris-Tia’s Book: This Is Only A Test  Natural Hair Products: Thank God It’s Natural    Reach out! Chris-Tia Donaldson Email: christia.donaldson@gmail.com  | Website: https://christiadonaldson.com/ | Instagram: @tginceo   The Goal Standard Podcast Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

If you’ve scrolled through social media and seen the phrase #heyFRIEND, chances are you’ve come across Keisha Mabry. We loved this episode so much that we've brought it back around for you all to hear!   Keisha’s goal is to help you get connected to the people and resources needed to catch your dreams.  Keisha does this as a speaker and through her book ‘ Hey Friend: 100 Ways to Connect to 100 People in 100 Days’.  Most recently, she’s created her one-day conference in St. Louis called ‘MastHerclass’, A day of application and inspiration for entrepreneurs, creatives, and influencers in the Midwest.  Keisha shares her most important tips when it comes to networking as a black woman, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.  She talks about finding what she loves to do, how speaking was the perfect way to get into entrepreneurship, and so much more. What  I love the most about this episode is that even though it wasn’t always easy, she always found a way to weave in her passion:  Mission work and business into her career.  If you know you’re meant for something more, but you don’t know what the next step is, this episode is for you.   Reach out! Keisha Mabry Email:keisha@keishamabry.com |  Instagram: @keishamabry | Website: keishamabry.com   The Goal Standard Podcast Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard   

Jacqueline is a full-time IT professional and Career coach focused on helping black women to climb the corporate letter.  So this episode is perfect if you’re still trying to get your corporate coins and business coins because   Jacqueline is going to show you how to balance both!

This week we are taking it back to a super informative episode! We are speaking with Ticora Davis of The Creator's Law Firm who talks to us about why it’s important for us to trademark our creations as people of color, and how to get it done as cost-effective as possible.  Ticora has actually helped me in the process of trademarking my brand properly. I’m sharing the story, what I went through, and what I learned through my big mistake of not trademarking my brand in the beginning. If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this experience, it’s that the culture vultures are lurking, listening and waiting to swoop in and take credit for what we create.  (not saying that I created the term Glow Up, but a person of color surely did. The owner of the trademark is not a person of color) PROTECT YOUR SMARTS, SIS!  Ticora shows you exactly how to do so in this episode.    Reach out! Ticora Davis Email: clients@creatorslawyer.com | Instagram: @ticoradavis | Website: www.ticoradavis.com/creators-law-firm   The Goal Standard Podcast Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

If you are a Black woman that feels suffocated in Corporate America, this episode is for you. If you feel inferior, undervalued, or unappreciated this episode is also for you. If you know that you deserve more and desire to take the leap of faith and go out on your own, this episode is definitely for you. This week we are talking to Diamond and Lidia of Pothos Beauty, an inclusive beauty and wellness marketplace. These women met while both working in the tech industry.  They both experienced the struggles of being a Black woman in Corporate America and decided that they weren't going to deal with it. These women left their jobs and created a business that they saw a need for.   In this episode we discuss: -Black women advocating to be treated equally in the workspace -How much we have changed from our ancestors when it comes to standing for what we deserve -The journey of starting their own company   Reach out! Instagram: www.instagram.com/pothosbeauty

This week we're taking it back to episode 55 of The Goal Standard Podcast! We’re talking to Tina Fears who tells us the story about how she kept running away from her creative side and toward stability.   This didn’t last long because her purpose kept pulling her back in. She ultimately started her company Stage Ready after leaving college. Stage ready ended up being a full-service base for creatives.  If you know you’re meant to do something different, listen to this episode and use it as the fuel you need to go after your purpose, fearlessly.    Here’s what we talk about:  How her upbringing helped her become who she is today How having parents as entrepreneurs actually motivated Tina to do the opposite  The ups and downs of being an entrepreneur and how to persevere How working a 9 to 5 is actually smart when starting out as an entrepreneur   Reach out! Tina Fears Email: iamtinafears@gmail.com |  Instagram: @tinafears | Website: tinafears.com

If you're interested in learning how to pay off the debt that you've gathered over the years from loans, bills, etc. to give yourself peace of mind, this episode is for you. If you are tired of not being able to focus on your business or other important things in life this episode is also for you. Nicole Jones was not a woman that grew up with a silver spoon, nor did she cash in a trust fund. She was raised by a single mother who had just enough to make ends meet. Due to her upbringing, once Nicole got a taste of money and living life, she never thought about the debt from school that would trail her. Nicole has managed to slay $80K worth of student loan debt! She is an author, a Project Manager at her 9 to 5, and a business owner of 2 businesses, Mediocre to Masterful and The PM Suite. In this episode we discuss: -How Nicole accumulated and paid off $80K in debt -How she balances her businesses while working her 9 to 5 -How she unlearned her bad financial habits and how it helped her get to where she is now   Reach out! Instagram: @mediocretomasterful

If you've ever thought about moving your career or business abroad but weren't sure how to make the move as a mom, this episode is for you.  This week I am talking with Rukiya Mcnair, author of Melanin Migration. Rukiya has taken both her business and her family to several different countries.  This episode is for everyone that has been craving the independence and freedom that moving abroad gives. We discuss: Her journey of learning how to manage being a mompreneur in a different country How she branched into her first work from abroad venture and the tests and trials she endured How her children have adapted to their migrating lifestyle   Reach out! Instagram: @themigratingmom | @melanin_migration   Stay connected! Instagram: @goalstandard_

Have you ever found yourself having conversations so deep with friends and family that you thought someone else should hear the conversation? Do you have strong opinions about specific topics and want your voice to be heard? Are you a professional that wants to tell the world about your profession and allow them to see it in a different light? Do you have a brand and want to reach more people? If you answered yes to any of these, podcasting may be for you. In this episode, I am helping you to figure out if podcasting is the best way to get your thoughts and opinions out into the world. In this episode I discuss: Why I started a podcast Who podcasting is for Why I chose podcasting over other mediums How podcasting can help you grow your brand   Stay in touch! Instagram: @goalstandard_

If you've been dreaming of being in the biggest publications and having your business be known worldwide, this episode is for you. If you've been wondering how the biggest names in your industry got to where they are, this episode is also for you. This week we are speaking with PR Guru, Lindsey Walker. She is dropping all the gems on how to increase brand awareness and publicity in your business. After 8 years in Public Relations, Lindsey has had the opportunity to work with BET, Interscope Records, and other clients whom her agency has been able to get exposed to The NY Times as well as Forbes.  If you want to learn how to get your business out into the world and how to be seen by publications, you'll want to listen in. In this episode we discuss: Lindsey's journey to creating her PR agency How she decided on PR as a career Tips on how to get your branding off the ground in your business   Reach Out: Instagram: www.instagram.com/lindseyawalker  

A few episodes ago I talked to my Virtual Assistant about her transition into full-time entrepreneurship and I realized that I had never told the story of my journey! If you're anything like me, you want to maintain your lifestyle. I knew that I didn't want to go backward and that I wasn't cool with struggling just to leave my 9-5. I knew I needed a plan, so I created one. Within a year I was able to leave my job, move to be with my then-fiancé who is in the army, and work 100% remotely. This episode is for you if you are trying to figure out if it's the right time to leave your job or if you're in need of a guide on how to make a well-prepared transition.   In this episode I discuss: How to leave your 9-5 and venture into full-time entrepreneurship with ease What prompted me to make the transition The logic behind the one-year timeline I created for myself RESOURCES Grab The Exit Plan Guide here Stay connected! Instagram: @goalstandard_

This week we're taking it back to episode 50 of The Goal Standard Podcast! We’re talking to Chelsea Guarriello about her journey from trying to figure out what to do, to growing her dropshipping business from zero to six figures in less than a year. This episode is really interesting because Chelsea really takes us behind the scenes to show us exactly how she got to this point in her life, from her childhood to relationships, and everything in between. Everything that Chelsea decided she wanted, she manifested and created the life she wants. If you’re at a point in your life where you know you want more, but you’re not sure what steps you should take to get there, this episode is for you.   Reach out! Chelsea Guarriello Instagram: @hunigold   The Goal Standard Podcast Email: Hello@thegoal-standard.com | Instagram: @goalstandard_ 

If you’ve been daydreaming about handing in your notice for your 9 to 5 and becoming a full-time entrepreneur, this episode is for you.  If you’ve been working in your business (either part-time or full-time) and you feel like you can’t do it alone, this episode is for you. AND if you’ve been trying to figure out that business idea and have heard the term Virtual Assistant but not sure what it’s about, this episode is for you.  We’re talking to The foundation behind The Goal Standard Iyana Hoskins about being a high-paid VA, how she got there, and what it takes to make 4 figures a month as a virtual assistant.  Iyana’s journey is super relatable and interesting as she talks about going from Ultrasound school to becoming a VA and how she’s able to still use some of the same skills now.  She’s FRESH out of the 9 to 5 world (we recorded this on her last day) so for those of you wondering what that day is like, she’ll tell you.   Here’s what we talk about  The importance of being aligned in your gifts and goals  What a Virtual Assistant is and how to make 4 figures a month How to know if you’d be a good fit as a VA How to know when you’re ready to hire one (hint - you don’t need to be making a milli a month first)    Learn more about Iyana  Iyana is a VA and coach who helps other virtual assistants recognize their value and charge their worth. She’s also the superstar behind The Goal Standard that helps us keep everything together.  Her superpower is taking care of her clients and students to make sure they have everything they need to excel.    Reach out! Instagram: www.instagram.com/iyanahoskins  

This week I decided to chat with you all about Impostor Syndrome and how it shows up in our lives and businesses especially. Impostor syndrome is something that I’ve dealt with in my previous career, as a wife and in my current business. You would think that because I’ve had so much success, that I’d have it all together but sis that is the furthest thing from true! In this episode I discuss: My battle with impostor syndrome and how I learned to manage it What happens when impostor syndrome creeps in and how to “get rid of it” How to recognize impostor syndrome when it shows up in your everyday life We are going to get through this together! Reach out! IG: @goalstandard_

This week I had the pleasure of speaking with Ashley Copeland of Stacks and the City! Ashley is an investor who teaches first-generation working professionals how to make money in the stock and real estate industry.    Ashley grew up in a family with her siblings and her single mother. She never saw her parents have much money and always worried about making sure she had savings to help out if a crisis ever struck. This lifestyle led her to her interest in investing and by the age of 21, she had saved $10K and started her portfolio as well as investing in real estate throughout her 20’s. Today she is worth over $100,000.  Her goal now is to help people make investing work for them in a simple way. In this episode we discuss: How Ashley learned about investing at the early age of 6 How her childhood upbringing played a role in her success How knowing the right people can take you far in life   More on Ashley: Ashley Copeland is a financial literacy expert that focuses on educating professional millennial women of color on how to create financial security with limited resources. She hosts a podcast called Stacks and the City which boasts over 30,000 downloads. Raised by a single mother in rural North Carolina, Ashley learned early about how money can affect your way of life.  Ashley avidly read about personal finance and homeownership throughout her teens and twenties.  As a result, Ashley used $10,000 saved from hours of serving tables and college refunds checks to open her first investment account at 21.  Ashley then purchased her first investment home at 24 and her second the following year with money steadfastly saved from working two jobs. Ashley proudly worked as a server trainer for six years at Founding Farmers and Farmers & Distillers and greatly attributes her experiences there for her financial success.  She is a graduate of Duke University with a BA in History.  Reach out! Website | www.stacksandthecity.co Instagram | www.instagram.com/stacksnthecity Invest in 10 Days with this E-Course:  https://stacks-and-the-city.ck.page/3080de8ef0  

In this week’s episode, we are talking to Jessa Glover, an Intuitive Business Strategist and Coach. Jessa is a 3-time college dropout turned successful entrepreneur, teaching others that it’s okay to go down a different path. Jessa worked her way up the corporate ladder until a corporate layoff led her to start her own business as a virtual assistant.  Jessa pivoted her business after not feeling aligned with her virtual assistant career and decided that coaching was a better fit for her. She now teaches other business owners to build businesses that they are aligned with. When Jessa is not strategizing, coaching, and supporting other entrepreneurs, Jessa enjoys spending time with her son outdoors, taking a saucy dance class, and enjoying the best margaritas Atlanta has to offer.   In this episode we discuss: -The importance of investing and return on investment -Jessa’s journey of discovery to what she wanted to do in life -How “overlearning” can play a negative role in your business -The challenges that new business owners struggle with when building their business Reach out! Jessa Glover www.jessaglover.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessa_glover_  

This week we are chatting with Pauleanna Reid, Celebrity Ghostwriter, mentor, and Senior Contributor for Forbes and The Business Insider. Pauleanna has an amazing story and she uses her story of depression, abuse, suicide attempts, and more to help other women through their tough journeys. Pauleanna knew she wanted to be a writer from a young child however her grades in school cast doubt over her family and she ended up being sent to college by her parents. After 2 years, Pauleanna decided to run with her dreams and left her college education behind. Pauleanna went on to become an amazing writer despite the odds set against her.  Pauleanna not only runs her ghostwriting company, WritersBlok, but she also mentors young women and women in business through her “New Girl On The Block” platform. It is a go-to resource for millennial women to receive assistance with life planning, career strategies, personal brand development, and style advice. With unique teaching methods and a curriculum designed to educate, entertain, and inspire women in transition, New Girl On The Block effortlessly converts shy girls into fly girls.   What we discussed: -Pauleanna’s tough journey through childhood and self-discovery -Her humble beginnings as a blogger -How Pauleanna worked her way to her current status -Her advice on going against what others feel that you should do with your life   Reach out! Pauleanna Reid www.pauleannareid.com | www.newgirlontheblock.com | www.thewritersblok.com Instagram: @pauleannareid

Whether you’ve heard of Trap Yoga Bae or you haven’t we’re super excited for you because this episode is fire!  Britteny, the CEO of Trap Yoga Bae tells us her unconventional story of finding her purpose through teaching Trap Yoga internationally.    She gets candid about how her upbringing and early experiences with Therapy led her on a journey to find herself which resulted in traveling the world, taking a yoga training.  Most interestingly, Britteny shares how a chance encounter with a teacher-led to her instructing her first Trap Yoga class and taking off from there.     Since this first class, Britteny has worked alongside mega stars, and been featured in major magazines such as Essence, Ebony, and OK Africa.    If you’re still trying to figure out what your purpose is, or recognizing that your path to success might be unconventional, this episode is for you.     We’ll talk about    The stigma of therapy in the black community  The pipeline to college and how it might not be right for everyone  How all of our experiences culminate in making us who we are Why being authentic should be your main goal in your business How to pivot during COVID and other difficult times

In this week’s episode I am talking to mompreneur Nicole Lashae about her journey of balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and a full-time job. Nicole has a bachelor’s degree in fine art and interior design, however she learned early that the life of an entrepreneur was the only role that fit.  In this episode we talk about: Nicole’s first business and why she had to let it go How she learned to create a balance between raising her son and fulfilling her purpose as a business owner How to become clear on your purpose and passion Learn more about Nicole: Nicole teaches mompreneurs how to master product development and create scalable sales strategies. Nicole has worked for multi-million dollar product manufacturers for the last 6 years, and now she helps women reach their business goals through private and group coaching. Nicole works with mompreneurs to help them refine their product offering and create strategies that will help them confidently sell their inventory.  Reach out! Nicole Lashae Instagram: www.instagram.com/nicolelashae Website: www.nicolelashae.com