The Shontavia Show

Trademark lawyer extraordinaire and author Radiance Harris shares some gems about knowing when to quit your job to start a business AND when to work with a trademark lawyer to protect your growing brand. Tweet: "Every single business has trademarks, but it only has its value when it's protected." @radianceharris via @ShontaviaJEsq Visit https://shontavia.com/episode44 for more. Text PODCAST to me at 864-651-9920 to get announcements and insights about starting and growing your business. // Show Summary5:23 How Radiance knew it was time to leave her Big Law employer to start her own law firm8:58 The one thing that helped Radiance more than anything when starting her own business11:00 How Radiance built her customer base from zero14:05 The fundamental things entrepreneurs need to know about trademarks22:00 When Radiance says you should talk to a lawyer (hint: it's probably earlier than you think!)23:40 How much a trademark lawyer ACTUALLY costs26:44 Why it takes 10 months on average to get a trademark approved by the USPTO32:09 Why Radiance says staying focused is the hardest part of entrepreneurship// Show NotesWhere to find Trademark Like a Boss, Radiance's new bookAmazon: https://amzn.to/3rl4yTAWebsite: https://www.radianceiplaw.com/bookWhere to find Radiance HarrisWebsite: https://www.radianceiplaw.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/radianceiplaw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radianceharrisesq/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/radianceharris/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1lo5oBeQ4ajqIBMv3dSbdA?// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Get weekly tips: shontavia.emailWork with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ 

Anne T. Griffin, a product professional in tech and founder of Pivot Grow Hustle, shares her experience starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic while working full time. Find out how she got started, what helped her the most, and the biggest mistakes she's made.  Tweet: "People quit when the timeline doesn't look like the timeline they imagined. But we have to keep going." @annetgriffin via @ShontaviaJEsq Visit https://shontavia.com/episode43 for more. Text PODCAST to me at 864-651-9920 to get announcements and insights about starting and growing your business. // Show Summary7:00 Why the COVID-19 pandemic motivated Anne to start her business8:07 Why Anne stopped giving away her intellectual property and started her own business9:56 How Anne's Pivot Grow Hustle business helps tech professionals find their dream job16:54 The first steps Anne took when she decided to start her business during the pandemic18:11 How the Brand and Business Academy helped Anne get started the right way23:32 The two things Anne would have done differently33:41 Why you shouldn't quit when the timeline doesn't meet your expectations// Show NotesWhere to find Pivot Grow HustleCourse: https://pivotgrowhustle.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/pivotgrowhustleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pivotgrowhustle/Where to find Anne T. GriffinWebsite: https://www.annetgriffin.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/annetgriffin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atgrif/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/annetgriffin/Tech2025: https://tech2025.com/our_team/anne-t-griffin/Watch Anne's Brand and Business Academy testimonial: https://youtu.be/zHLQ_0GrgAA More About Anne T. Griffin:We Got Next with Anne T. Griffin : https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/we-got-next-with-anne-t-griffin/id1364451513?i=1000457345094Anne Griffin - Time for Your Come Up: https://thedrwillshowpodcast.simplecast.com/episodes/anne-griffin-annetgriffin-time-for-your-come-up// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Get weekly tips: shontavia.emailWork with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ 

Stephanie Humphrey, also known as Tech Life Steph, visited the Shontavia Show to discuss navigating her career path, finding her God-given purpose, and knowing when it's time to stay or pivot. Tech Life Steph has LIVED, honey. Stephanie is currently a technology contributor for ABC News where she worked as part of the nationally syndicated Strahan Sara & Keke team, as well as contributing to Good Morning America. Before that, she spent two years as the technology contributor to daytime talk show The Harry Show, hosted by Harry Connick, Jr. She has also been a guest expert on the daytime morning show Home & Family on The Hallmark Channel, and Sister Circle Live on TV One. Helping students is a passion that drives Stephanie, and she has channeled this motivation into a seminar called ‘Til Death Do You Tweet. Her new book “Don't Let Your Digital Footprint Kick You in the Butt!” expands on these concepts.Visit https://shontavia.com/episode42 for more. // Show Summary00:03:00 How Stephanie's unfulfilling career as an engineer led to her first modeling gig00:08:07 When Stephanie knew it was time to leave her engineering job00:15:09 How one 2011 meeting gave Stephanie the idea for her Tech Life Steph brand00:25:03 What Stephanie's business looks like today00:34:13 Why Stephanie thinks everybody needs to be on LinkedIn00:42:46 How to clean up past mistakes you've made online00:47:20 How Stephanie went from her first event with 4 people to having her book featured in Times Square00:55:50 How to leverage unpaid opportunities for paid ones// Show NotesWhere to find Tech Life Steph and her book:Book: Don't Let Your Digital Footprint Kick You in the Butt!: A lesson in what NOT to on the internet to build your personal brand onlineWebsite: https://www.tildeathdoyoutweet.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/techlifestephInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/techlifesteph/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/techlifesteph/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sthumphrey24More About Tech Life Steph:Former engineer Stephanie Humphrey helps people understand technology: https://rollingout.com/2020/04/01/former-engineer-stephanie-humphrey-helps-people-understand-technology/Internet & device solutions for back to school: https://youtu.be/nDCAbvYhMx4// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Get weekly tips: shontavia.emailWork with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ 

Well, it's been a minute. Between the anti-racism protests, COVID, the 2020 election, #ENDSARS, and everything else, life has been a roller coaster. In this episode of the Shontavia Show, Shontavia walks through her brief hiatus, what she's been up to, and what she's learned about surviving and thriving in uncertain times. Visit https://shontavia.com/episode41 for more. // Show Summary00:01:34 Girl, where you been?00:06:49 Join Shontavia's book club00:09:21 The first thing you can do to survive: get educated00:10:38 The three courses I took to make five figures in five months00:17:13 The second thing you can do to survive: pursue economic independence/financial freedom00:22:15 The third thing you can do to survive: do good in the world and give yourself grace// Show NotesJoin Shontavia's Book Club : shontavia.com/bookclubGet The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks on Amazon.comTonya Evans' From Cash to Crypto courseDanielle Leslie's Course from ScratchCourtney Sanders' Project Management Course// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Get weekly tips: shontavia.emailWork with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ 

Denise Woodard, the founder and CEO of Partake Foods, visits the Shontavia Show to talk about her experience as the first Black woman to raise $1 million for a food startup, landing Jay-Z's Marcy Venture Partners as an investor, and Partake's exponential growth in the middle of a pandemic. Founded in 2016, Partake Foods provides cookies that are Gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO and free of the top 14 allergens. Denise found the company after learning about her daughter's allergies and wanting to provide her with healthy, kid-friendly food options. In this episode, Denise walks us through her journey and how she used Google and LinkedIn to find the resources she needed to make Partake a success. Denise also shares some amazing tips for working professionals who are thinking about a business idea while at their full-time jobs. If you have a dream idea swirling in your head, this episode is truly a must listen. Visit https://shontavia.com/episode40 for more. // Show Summary00:02:32 How Denise transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship00:03:40 How Denise's daughter's allergies, and one question from her nanny, gave her the idea for Partake Foods00:06:23 Denise's journey from weekly trade shows to landing Jay-Z's Marcy Venture Partners as an investor00:10:03 How Denise used LinkedIn to scale her startup00:12:34 How focusing helped Denise get Partake's cookies into Whole Foods00:14:48 Figuring out when it's time to hire new employees00:16:16 The experience of fundraising as a black woman startup CEO00:19:28 Denise's two biggest wins thus far with Partake Foods00:22:00 How Denise is giving back through the Food Equality Initiative and HBCU partnerships00:24:42 Why you need to just get started with your business idea// Show NotesWhere to find Partake Foods and Denise Woodard:Website: https://partakefoods.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/partakefoodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/partakefoods/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/partakefoods/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PartakeFoods/Denise's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgwoodard/More About Denise's journey: The Odds Are Stacked Against Women Of Color Seeking Venture Funds. Here's How One Cookie Startup Broke The Mold: https://www.forbes.com/sites/shaynaharris/2020/06/17/jay-z-marcy-venture-partners-vc-funds-start-up-that-sells-at-whole-foods/#769512fb3c1b // Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ 

I visited the Dr. Will Show to talk about my story and journey with entrepreneurship, including quitting my six-figure job, moving to South Africa for several months, and taking a $100,000 pay cut to come back to the United States to teach. I also provide suggestions to educators for they can be entrepreneurial, especially during the COVID-19 era.  Visit https://shontavia.com/episode39 for more. // Show Summary// Show NotesOriginal Episode: https://thedrwillshowpodcast.simplecast.com/episodes/shontavia-johnson-esq-shontaviajesq-the-power-of-one This Educator Made A Documentary About Teachers Turning Toward Entrepreneurship: https://www.forbes.com/sites/robynshulman/2019/04/20/this-educator-made-a-documentary-about-teachers-turning-toward-entrepreneurship/#24aebf6169e7 Where to find Will H. Deyamport, III, Ed.D.:YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrWillDeyamportIII/featuredTwitter: https://twitter.com/iamDrWillPodcast: https://thedrwillshowpodcast.simplecast.com Website: https://www.tdg.education  // Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/

Kanika Tolver, CEO & Author of Career Rehab, comes to the Shontavia Show to drop ALL the knowledge about how to build your personal brand while working full time. As a career coach and full-time tech professional, Kanika is walking the walk and talking the talk. In this episode, she is very transparent about how she got a book deal with a major publisher while working full-time, how she shifted from an employee mindset to a branding mindset, and how becoming a "networking junkie" helped her land a job at one of the best places to work in the world.Kanika also shares her best tips for employees who want to level up in their careers and with their brands. If you have any dreams of expanding beyond the job you currently have, this episode is a must-listen! Visit https://shontavia.com/episode38 for more. // Show Summary02:59 Why Kanika ignored the advice of family, friends and co-workers and quit her "good government job" for a job at Deloitte08:38 How Kanika found her value and worth in her career11:07 Why finding "virtual mentors" is important for your career12:25 How Kanika decided on her side hustle idea while working in the corporate sector17:03 How to build an authentic brand online20:00 How Kanika found an agent and landed her first book deal with Entrepreneur Press27:42 Why people are so unhappy at work right now29:18 The two things you need to do to create a personal brand at work32:53 How to turn your knowledge and expertise into a product or service35:37 Why you should be dating jobs38:43 Why Kanika highlights other people's successes in her latest book, Career Rehab44:00 Why you should fight for the way you want your personal brand represented by others// Show NotesWhere to find Kanika Tolver:Website: https://kanikatolver.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/KanikaTolverBuy Career Rehab: https://amzn.to/2EIFaTPRead Kanika's articles on Entrepreneur.com: https://www.entrepreneur.com/author/kanika-tolver// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tvTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/

This is unapologetically a black women appreciation episode. The world is on fire, but black women entrepreneurs are killing it in their respective fields and giving me inspiration at the same time. I wanted to share a few of the lessons I've learned from six amazing black women entrepreneurs: Tabitha Brown, Rachel Rodgers, Danielle Leslie, Dawn Dickson, Teri Ijeoma, and King Ashley Ann. I know you'll find some inspiration from their stories too!// Show Summary02:19 Lesson #1 from Tabitha Brown: Continue to make your content06:36 Lesson #2 from Rachel Rodgers: Speak your truth13:02 Lesson #3 from Danielle Leslie: "I dream it. I work hard. I grind, I own it." 16:12 Lesson #4 from Dawn Dickson: Invest in yourself and your education23:26 Lesson #5 from Teri Ijeoma: You can talk about God AND business IN your business26:18 Lesson #6 from King Ashley Ann: Authenticity is your superpower// Show NotesTabitha Brownhttps://www.instagram.com/iamtabithabrown/TikTok Star Tabitha Brown Lands Her Own Show on EDN: https://www.blackenterprise.com/tiktok-star-tabitha-brown-lands-web-series-on-ellen-degeneres-digital-network/Rachel Rodgershttps://helloseven.coThis entrepreneur brought in $1 million in June—while building a network of anti-racist small businesses: https://www.cnbc.com/2020/07/17/hello-seven-rachel-rodgers-hits-1-million-forms-anti-racist-pledge.htmlDanielle Lesliehttps://www.danielleleslie.comDawn Dickson https://www.dawndickson.meDawn Dickson's Road to $1 Million Started at the Entrepreneurs Summit: https://www.blackenterprise.com/the-road-to-1-million-can-start-at-the-entrepreneurs-summit/Teri Ijeoma https://investwithteri.comKing Ashley Annhttps://kingashleyann.biz/King Ashley Ann teaches how to monetize social media; hosts annual wealth expo: https://rollingout.com/2017/10/19/king-ashley-ann-teaches-how-to-monetize-social-media-hosts-annual-wealth-expo/ // Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

Jess Avolio, an Ontario-based entrepreneur and branding expert, stops by the Shontavia Show to talk about how she helps creators and entrepreneurs build their brand identity while also publicly supporting anti-racist efforts in her business. Jess drops lots of knowledge for early-stage business owners and entrepreneurs about how to start building a consistent and dynamic brand. From color palettes and social media strategy to fonts and user experience, Jess provides invaluable expertise for people starting from the ground zero.She also talks about how recent anti-racist protests around the world motivated her to take a public stance through her business and the feedback she's gotten from her followers and clients.  // Show Summary01:22 Why entrepreneur Jess Avolio tells people up front that her business is anti-oppressive and anti-racist 03:35 Why Jess decided to leave her corporate jobs for entrepreneurship 07:20 Two methods for setting your rates as a new entrepreneur 11:31 Where Jess thinks new entrepreneurs should start with their branding 13:42 Why Jess thinks user experience is a critical part of the brand process 18:39 Why Jess believes consistency is so important for brands 20:55 How creatives and entrepreneurs can be good clients to their branding professionals 22:44 Why Jess thinks establishing customer trust also includes an anti-racist stance 28:17 Why Jess thinks brands should use their platforms to support anti-oppression and anti-racism // Show NotesWhere to find Jess Avolio:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.avolio/Jess Avolio's website: https://javolio.com/Is my biz anti-oppressive? https://javolio.com/anti-o/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

Professor D. Wendy Greene visits the Shontavia Show to talk about growing her global #FreeTheHair brand while also building a movement to make natural hair discrimination illegal. Through her nearly two decades of dedication, she's worked with lawmakers, lawyers, community leaders, and everyone in between to ensure that African descendants can rock their natural hair in schools and the workplace. Wendy's fascinating story begins with her parents' status as civil rights icons in South Carolina, including her mother's voter registration work during the Jim Crow era and her father's civil rights case being successfully argued before the United States Supreme Court. This background has positioned her uniquely today as one of the world's foremost legal experts on natural hair discrimination. This episode is all about how she's managed to accomplish the herculean task of literally changing the law and positively impacting the world--while also building her own personal brand. // Show Summary02:56 How growing up the child of civil rights activists shaped Wendy's life 09:43 The moment Wendy decided that she was going to change the law to prohibit natural hair discrimination 15:08 Why Wendy had to pivot with her strategy to change American anti-discrimination law 24:42 How to build a movement for EVERYONE while also building a brand for YOURSELF 30:52 The unbreakable connections Wendy sees between #FreeTheHair and #BlackLivesMatter // Show NotesWhere to find Wendy Greene:Twitter: https://twitter.com/professordwendyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/professordwendy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freethehairnow/Free the Hair website: https://freethehair.com/Doris "Wendy" Greene Helped Fight for New York City's Ban on Natural-Hair Discrimination: https://www.teenvogue.com/story/doris-wendy-greene-natural-hair-anti-discrimination-banMade for the moment: Wendy Greene, daughter of anti-discrimination pioneers, to present Angela Davis with Shuttlesworth award: https://www.al.com/news/2020/06/made-for-this-moment-wendy-greene-to-present-angela-davis-with-shuttlesworth-award.htmlThe Official Crown Act campaign: https://www.thecrownact.com/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

Miles Beckler visits the Shontavia Show to talk about exponentially growing your business and brand by creating consistent content. Miles used a content marketing challenge to grow his YouTube subscribers from 0 to +140k in 3 years, and he's turned his platform into an incredible resource for his subscribers and successful business for himself. In this wide-ranging conversation, Miles covers his first failed attempt at entrepreneurship, the multi-million-dollar meditation website and business he and his wife built together, and how he's created a successful business through his YouTube channel. // Show Summary02:17 How Miles went from 0 to +140k YouTube subscribers with his 90 day video challenge 06:30 Why Miles won't rely on social media to build his business 07:56 How to start a business during a global crisis 09:06 Why having an email list and owning your content are two of the most important things for your business. 15:19 How to go from behind the scenes to the face of a brand or business 17:50 Why it's okay for your first pieces of content to suck (everyone's does!) 21:56 Why it's okay to align your purpose and passion with money 28:19 Why Miles says everyone starting out needs to create more content than they consume // Show NotesWhere to find Miles Beckler: https://www.milesbeckler.com/https://www.youtube.com/milesbhttps://twitter.com/milesbecklerMiles's first YouTube video: Evolving Out Loud with Kyle Cease Review-- https://youtu.be/vWJsVHiKXDg90 Day Content Marketing Challenge: https://www.milesbeckler.com/content-marketing-challenge-ideas/The Ask-Angels website that Miles built with his wife, Melanie Beckler: https://www.ask-angels.com/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

This summer, my show will focus on entrepreneurs and business owners who connect their work and/or life to social justice. I can think of none more perfect to start with than Madam C.J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire in America. Madam Walker, who was born two years after slavery officially ended in the U.S., used her business to train women entrepreneurs, fund college scholarships, and support social justice causes.In this episode, I speak with Mrs. A'Lelia Bundles, the author of On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker, the 2001 New York Times Notable Book about her entrepreneurial great-great-grandmother that was the inspiration for Self Made, the 2020 Netflix series starring Octavia Spencer. // Show Summary03:27 How Madam C.J. Walker connected her business success to social justice 05:10 How Madam Walker's close ties to American slavery, and other black entrepreneurs, shaped her views 06:19 How Madam Walker helped create financial independence for her employees 08:38 Current black entrepreneurs taking a public stand in favor of social justice 09:56 How Madam Walker's time in St. Louis shaped her social views 14:19 How Madam Walker helped her sales agents build generational wealth 16:36 How black people can research early family history 20:01 Why A'Lelia Walker, Madam Walker's daughter, deserves her own book 22:45 Why A'Lelia Bundles hoped for "Hidden Figures" from Netflix but got "Real Housewives of Atlanta" with Self Made 31:19 Why A'Lelia Bundles thinks it is so important for black stories to be told 31:59 Why intellectual property ownership is so important // Show NotesWebsites of A'Lelia Bundles: https://aleliabundles.com/ and http://madamcjwalker.com/Netflix's ‘Self Made' suffers from self-inflicted wounds: https://theundefeated.com/features/netflixs-self-made-suffers-from-self-inflicted-wounds/On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker (Lisa Drew Books (Paperback)): https://amzn.to/2V28habAll about Madam C. J. Walker: https://amzn.to/37KO8dO// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Work with me: http://brandandbusinessacademy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of the Shontavia Show, I talk about my own experience during this period of social unrest after America's most recent instances of police violence. It's been hard, and I'm exhausted. This episode provides some suggestions for how businesses and entrepreneurs can balance doing business with publicly committing to social justice and allyship. No, it's not easy, but y'all need to do better, and this episode offers some tangible things you can do to take an authentic stand. One thing I'll be doing moving forward is talking to entrepreneurs who commit to social justice and anti-racism--and use their business platforms to support causes, candidates, and change. // Show Summary01:29 How the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others have impacted me and my family03:30 Racism is alive and well...even in my diverse neighborhood 05:53 Why we can't just continue with business as usual 08:05 How the Shontavia Show will shift in response to the current social unrest 09:59 The history of Black American entrepreneurs (like Thomas Jennings) supporting social causes 12:57 How businesses can navigate during this time 19:50 One thing black entrepreneurs should be doing right now 23:59 How Madam CJ Walker, one of America's most successful entrepreneurs, connected her business to social justice in the late 1800s and early 1900s // Show NotesBlack Folks Had Patents in the 1800s: https://youtu.be/fnyTEU-pWT0?t=10The CEO of Black influencer marketing agency Shade shares tips for how companies can be better allies — and avoid getting ridiculed on social media: https://www.businessinsider.com/shade-ceo-tips-for-how-brands-can-support-black-americans-2020-65 steps to navigate brand messaging in a time of civil unrest so you don't lose customer trust: https://www.businessinsider.com/5-steps-brands-take-social-media-acknowledge-race-injustice-2020-6// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

Harold Hughes, the CEO of startup Bangwagon Fanclub Inc., speaks about going from doing everything on his own to growing the Bandwagon team to now 6 people. He provides some insightful keys on how to successfully choose the right people at the right time. Harold's interview style and questions have been highlighted in Fast Company magazine, and it is clear why! From using creative compensation strategies to hire quality employees when the business had no money, to dealing with new hires who quit before they even start, to investing heavily in employees that may one day leave, Harold lays it all on this line in this episode. // Show Summary04:20 When Harold knew he needed to hire people, and who he started with 06:52 How Harold hired a software developer with no money using deferred compensation 09:12 How to convince other people to work with you for free 11:33 How to choose the right candidates without a formal interview process  15:36 How to choose the right candidates when there is a formal interview process 17:33 Would you rather be King or be rich? One of Harold's favorite interview questions 20:22 How to handle rejection after a candidate takes, and then declines, a job offer 27:16 How to ensure that your employees become your company's biggest evangelists 32:06 Why the transformative power of transparent storytelling is important for black founders // Show Notes Raising Startup Capital with Bandwagon Founder and CEO Harold Hughes: https://shontavia.buzzsprout.com/795392/2884930-15-raising-startup-capital-with-bandwagon-founder-and-ceo-harold-hughesThe Bandwagon Fanclub Team: https://bandwagonfanclub.com/team/9 CEOs share their favorite interview questions: https://www.fastcompany.com/90378682/9-ceos-share-their-favorite-interview-questionsHarold's Twitter thread about hiring: https://twitter.com/OneBandwagonFan/status/1201498739258646528?s=20// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

Startup life is definitely not a straight line, but it can be a very rewarding one. Entrepreneur Craig Walker visits the Shontavia Show to talk about his experience starting, growing, and selling his startup, Vidistar. Craig founded Vidistar in 2004 out of a need to test his unborn child's growth and development, and the company was ultimately acquired in 2018 by Hitachi Healthcare Americas Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi.Craig walks through the early days of his startup, including working full-time to build it, agonizing over the decision to quit his full-time job, and building a successful company that attracted a buyer. If you've ever wondered how startup acquisitions work, this is the episode for you! // Show Highlights 04:37 How entrepreneur Craig Walker came up with the idea for his startup company 07:16 How Craig went from idea to company 09:29 How Craig used his full-time, professional career to support his entrepreneurial endeavors 10:48 When Craig decided to quit his full-time job and work full-time on his startup 12:00 How Craig grew his company exponentially year over year 13:07 How Craig found good mentors while he was building his company 16:42 How Craig sold his startup, Vidistar, to Hitachi 18:44 How Craig and his team decided which inventions to patent 23:51 Craig's advice to new founders and people who want to build startups // Show Notes Hitachi to Expand its Clinical Reporting and Analytics for Diagnostic Imaging with the Acquisition of VidiStar: https://www.hitachi.us/press/hitachi-to-expand-its-clinical-reporting-and-analytics-for-diagnostic-imaging-with-the-acquisition-of-vidistarHitachi affiliate's acquisition of Greenville-based Vidistar a ‘win-win': https://upstatebusinessjournal.com/tech-design/hitachi-affiliates-acquisition-greenville-based-vidistar-win-win/SC Launch: https://www.scra.org/how-sc-launch-works/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

On Thursdays, Shontavia provides thoughts on your questions and reviews interesting things she's read, listened to or watched. On this #ThursdayThoughts episode, Shontavia answers a question about how to start a business when you don't know where to start. In Shontavia's response, she outlines:the questions you need to ask yourself when you hate your job and want to start a business,  one foolproof way to find out what's happening in your industry of choice, and   how to determine what makes you unique in even the most crowded of marketplaces.and much more. Check out the full episode for all of the gems and nuggets being dropped. // Show Highlights: 01:08 The question: How do I start a business when I don't know where to start? 02:59 Why Shontavia reads Wikipedia pages to grow her business and brand 03:52 Questions to ask when you hate your job and want to start a business 06:18 One foolproof way to find out what's happening in your industry or field 07:50 How to determine what makes you unique in even the most crowded of marketplaces 11:52 Taking advantage of free resources when you want to start a business or make a career change 13:23 Finding an accountability partner 14:07 Finding inspiration in other people's successes // Show Notes +50 places you can start when you're broke and don't know where to start, with inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: https://shontavia.com/50-places-you-can-start-when-youre-broke-and-dont-know-where-to-start-with-inspiration-from-dr-martin-luther-king-jr/ Thursday Thoughts: 3 side hustle strategies when you can't quit your day job: https://shontavia.com/thursday-thoughts-3-side-hustle-strategies-when-you-cant-quit-your-day-job/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

What are the biggest fears and frustrations of new side hustle business owners? Artie Freeman, the founder of Ferguson and Freeman Affiliated Apparel, an early stage apparel company, lays his concerns on the table in this episode of The Shontavia Show. From working full-time and building his hustle on the side with his business partner, to protecting their content and brand using intellectual property ownership, to letting go of control, this conversation is quite relatable for working professionals looking to build their business while juggling everything else. This conversation shows us that there's always a path forward for early stage side hustlers.  // Show Highlights 03:32 How one experience at 5 years old led Artie Freeman to his love of fashion and apparel 07:36 Why creating a scalable business has been difficult 08:47 Why finding his ideal cutomer has positively impacted Artie's business 14:53 How to get started protecting your content's copyrights without breaking the bank 16:58 The one resource Shontavia thinks will help if you file your copyright applications on your own 17:47 How to get started protecting your brand's trademarks without breaking the bank 21:45 How to balance your time when you're working full time and building your side hustle 25:31 Why making mistakes with new business projects isn't the end of the world, as illustrated by Disney and Tesla 27:48 How to keep your family happy when you're building your side hustle 29:13 How to involve your kids in your entrepreneurial endeavors 35:31 Why Artie and Shontavia disagree about pricing products // Show Notes Ferguson and Freeman Affiliated Company: https://www.instagram.com/fandf.official/ Finding extra time to start your business: https://shontavia.com/episode20/Copyright.gov fees: https://www.copyright.gov/about/fees.htmlU.S. Trademark Office fees: https://www.uspto.gov/trademark/trademark-fee-information // Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, I speak with Arlan Hamilton, an exceptional venture capitalist and the author of It's About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage. Arlan is the Founder and Managing Partner of Backstage Capital, a fund that is dedicated to minimizing funding disparities in tech by investing in high-potential founders who are people of color, women, and/or LGBT. Arlan's remarkable story includes everything from poverty and housing insecurity to billionaires and history-making University of Oxford scholarships.  We talk about Arlan's background, her new book, and why she's adamant about betting on underestimated founders. // Show Highlights03:08 How Arlan Hamilton's viral Medium article made her a household name in Silicon Valley and with entrepreneurs13:00 How Arlan built a name for herself as a VC while broke and homeless 15:09 What Arlan believes causes the disconnect between VCs and underestimated founders 17:07 The three things Arlan says led her to getting her first investor 18:28 How "writing her own invitation," and some unexpected help from a black woman, helped Arlan land a legendary billionaire investor 22:37 How Arlan's book, It's About Damn Time, is different from most business books 24:02 About How to Raise Capital for your Company from Scratch, Arlan's new course for startup founders 26:39 How Arlan uses money to give back to others by supporting special projects, creating scholarships, and making history // Show NotesBuy the book It's About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage: https://amzn.to/2xvpLD7Dear White Venture Capitalists: If you're reading this, it's (almost!) too late.: https://medium.com/female-founders/dear-white-venture-capitalists-if-you-re-not-actively-searching-for-and-seeding-qualified-4f382f6fd4a7Memo to the Silicon Valley boys' club: Arlan Hamilton has no time for your BS: https://www.fastcompany.com/90227793/backstage-capitals-arlan-hamilton-brings-diversity-to-venture-capital How to Raise Capital for Your Company From Scratch: https://arlanwashere.teachable.com/p/raising-capital-for-your-company-from-scratch/// Internet + Social Media Website: https://shontavia.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

On Thursdays, I provide thoughts on your questions and/or review interesting things I've read, listened to, or watched. On this #ThursdayThoughts episode, I answer a question about how to stop overthinking and second-guessing yourself. My suggestions are to: (1) Start with something low stakes. (2) Use the resources around you, like The OpEd Project, and then (3) Number three, perfect your pitch. Check out the full episode for more. // Show Highlights01:11 - The question: How can I stop overthinking and second-guessing myself when pitching myself to editors? 04:40 - Shontavia's horrible experience with an article she wrote 06:03 - How to start with a low-stakes article in your local newspaper 09:14 - How The OpEd Project helped Shontavia go from local letters to the editor to TIME, Huffington Post, and the Washington Post 11:13 - The one thing you can do to stop wasting time writing full articles // Show NotesHow to Put Yourself Out There: https://www.buzzsprout.com/795392/2444864The OpEd Project: https://www.theopedproject.org/How to Pitch, from The OpEd Project: https://www.theopedproject.org/pitchingHow to Pitch an Article to a Magazine: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-pitch-an-article-to-a-magazine3 Mistakes That Make Editors Throw Your Pitch in the Trash: https://www.themuse.com/advice/3-mistakes-that-make-editors-throw-your-pitch-in-the-trash// Want More? Find Shontavia Johnson at www.shontavia.com Sign up for Shontavia's #MakeItHappenMonday Newsletter at http://www.makeithappennewsletter.com//Social MediaTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsqInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson talks about the top excuses that hold people back from starting their business and building their brand. She also provides the ONE rule she learned from a business coach that can get rid of all of those excuses.  *This episode was pre-recorded in the Fall of 2019. While things have definitely changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, I still believe we are living in an incredible time for entrepreneurs.*Warning, there's a little profanity in this episode. // Show Highlights04:10 Black billionaire Robert F. Smith's advice about creating wealth during these historic times 05:06 An important message about living as history is happening from Hamilton's Schuyler Sisters 05:22 The shocking data on black women and Latina entrepreneurs 07:07 The most popular excuses people make that keep them from starting their business 10:38 The one rule Shontavia learned from her business coach that shifted her entire life and business 13:28 Some homework for listeners and viewers: visit shontavia.com/episode25 to share // Show Notes‘Who is this Robert Smith?': A quiet billionaire makes some noise with $20 million gift to the African American museum:  https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/who-is-this-robert-smith-a-quiet-billionaire-makes-some-noise-with-20-million-gift-to-the-african-american-museum/2016/09/23/547da3a8-6fd0-11e6-8365-b19e428a975e_story.htmlHamilton At The White House "The Schuyler Sisters:" https://youtu.be/_ffjFS_4I8cReport: Women-owned businesses jumped 3,000% since 1972: https://www.fastcompany.com/90224242/report-women-owned-businesses-jumped-3000-since-1972Black Women Entrepreneurs: The Good And Not-So-Good News: https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2018/09/09/black-women-entrepreneurs-the-good-and-not-so-good-news/#46ad5b5a6ffeThe Amazing Power of 'I Don't' vs. 'I Can't': https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidigranthalvorson/2013/03/14/the-amazing-power-of-i-dont-vs-i-cant/#303f8c3dd037Finding extra time to start your business: https://shontavia.com/episode20/// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

On Thursdays, Shontavia provides thoughts on your questions and reviews interesting things she's read, listened to or watched. On this #ThursdayThoughts episode, Shontavia and Nichole Hayden answer a question about how to build a brand internally at work from someone who is just starting her career at a Midwestern law firm. Their advice: (1) make a good first impression by being dependable and communicating early and often; (2) make connections with your colleagues; (3) do good work; and (4) choose the career path that works for you. Check out this episode for more. // Show Highlights01:54 Listener Rachel asks her question about creating a "brand" inside her law firm as a new employee 02:49 Why Nichole thinks first impressions are the most important thing when you're a new employee/law firm associate 05:04 Why being dependable is one of the best things a new employee/law firm associate can do 05:57 Nichole's advice on what to do when you make mistakes 07:11 How to make connections with colleagues at a new employer/law firm 08:41 How to create a reputation at work without going to any social functions 10:20 How Nichole navigated motherhood and law firm life // Show NotesAnswering all of your intellectual property questions with Nichole Hayden, law firm partner: https://shontavia.com/episode23/Where to find Nichole Hayden: https://www.nelsonmullins.com/people/nichole-hayden?#overview// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson speaks with Nichole Hayden, an amazing intellectual property lawyer and law firm partner at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough. Nichole focuses on helping clients obtain patent protection for their inventions and trademarks that effectively protect their brand.Shontavia and Nichole had a wide-ranging conversation about everything from how to find an IP lawyer, how long the whole application processes take, and how to be a good client. If you're an inventor, content creator, or entrepreneur, this episode is definitely for you. // Show Highlights08:25 How long it takes to get a registered trademark or patent09:30 What inventors should do before reaching out to a patent lawyer 10:56 When inventors should reach out to a patent lawyer 12:00 How much it costs to file a patent application 13:09 How a provisional patent application can help you save money up front 15:30 How trade secrets can save you money and protect your invention 18:15 When you should contact a lawyer if you want to protect your trademark (it's earlier than you think!) 22:13 How much it costs to file a trademark or copyright application 23:36 Why Nichole thinks you need to always have an initial conversation with an IP lawyer 24:27 Why choosing a good IP lawyer can save you now AND years down the line 28:14 How startups can decide when to hire an in-house lawyer versus working with one on a contract basis 30:13 Why creating a software- or app-based company is harder now than its ever been 35:28 How IP lawyers decide whether you're a good client 37:43 What you should do once you finally get that registered trademark, copyright or patent // Show NotesWhere to find Nichole Hayden: https://www.nelsonmullins.com/people/nichole-hayden?#overview How to find a good intellectual property lawyer on a budget: https://shontavia.com/how-to-find-a-good-intellectual-property-lawyer-on-a-budget/The Difference Between Copyrights, Trademarks and Patents: https://www.nytimes.com/article/copyrights-trademarks-patents.html// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

On Thursdays, Shontavia provides thoughts on your questions and reviews interesting things she's read, listened to or watched. On this #ThursdayThoughts episode, Shontavia answers a question about how to become an academic entrepreneur and keep your day job at the university. Shontavia's advice: (1) Read your university's conflicts of interest policy; (2) Create an easy-to-digest message; and (3) Position yourself as an expert on your own platform and on other people's platforms. Check out this episode for more. // Show Highlights00:56 BJ's question about establishing yourself as an academic entrepreneur 03:02 Tip #1: Read your university's conflicts of interest policy 04:54 Tip #2: Create an easy-to-digest message 05:37 How the COMPASS Message Box can help you create a clear, public message 07:51 Leveraging TheConversation.com to get published in places like TIME, US News, Newsweek, Scientific American, and elsewhere 09:44 Tip #3: Position yourself on your platform and others as an expert in your field // Show NotesBuild a website you're proud of in 9 steps: https://shontavia.com/build-a-website-youre-proud-of-in-8-steps/The Message Box by COMPASS: https://www.compassscicomm.org/message-box-workbook The Conversation: https://theconversation.comMy articles on The Conversation: https://theconversation.com/profiles/shontavia-johnson-203059/articlesThe OpEd Project: https://www.theopedproject.org/Help A Reporter Out (HARO): https://www.helpareporter.com/// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson talks about why you need a tax ID number from the IRS and how to get one. This won't be the most riveting topic, but it's definitely required listening if you're starting a new business. The last place you want to be is in trouble with the IRS! Check out this episode and decide whether getting a tax ID number is the right next step for you. // Show Highlights01:24 Why you probably need a tax ID number - thoughts from my conversation with a business law expert 05:14 How to determine when the law requires you to get a tax ID number 06:22 The benefits of having a tax ID number, even if the law doesn't require it 10:32 How to get a tax ID number (it's free and you can probably do it yourself!) // Show NotesChoosing a Business Structure: https://shontavia.com/choosing-a-corporate-structure-advice-from-a-business-law-expert/How to get a tax ID number for your business: https://shontavia.com/tax-id-numbers-biz-better-have-my-money/How and Why to Avoid Commingling Personal and Business Funds: https://blogs.findlaw.com/free_enterprise/2017/03/how-and-why-to-avoid-commingling-personal-and-business-funds.htmlDo You Need an EIN?: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/do-you-need-an-einApply for your Tax ID number/EIN online: https://sa.www4.irs.gov/modiein/individual/index.jspPaper Application for Employer Identification Number (Form SS-4): https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson talks about how to find extra time in your day to start your business. If you've ever said, "I'm just too busy right now," or "if I just had more hours in a day" when it comes to pursuing that idea, project, or business idea, this is the episode for you. Shontavia's four suggestions for finding extra time include: (1) eliminating aimless scrolling; (2) using social media to learn, build and grow; (3) being consistent; and (4) learning from others.// Show Highlights: 01:02 Why busy-ness and "no time" are bad excuses  03:53 Why prioritizing other things is okay  05:17 How you can figure out where your time is going: the 3 day audit  06:39 The embarrassing places where I was wasting time and not growing my business  07:25 Where most people are losing time  09:33 How to get your wasted time back  10:28 How to measure how much time you're spending on your phone  12:35 Where you can reclaim your time  16:49 4 things you can do right now to find more time in your day // Show NotesFinding time to start your business: https://shontavia.com/find-time-to-start-your-business-by-finding-lost-time/Find time to start your business: Stop scrolling: https://shontavia.com/finding-time-to-start-your-business-no-more-aimless-scrolling/How to Check Screen Time on Dif­fer­ent Devices: https://www.guidingtech.com/check-screen-time-different-devices/How Much Time Do People Spend on Social Media? [63+ Facts to Like, Share and Comment]: https://review42.com/how-much-time-do-people-spend-on-social-media/How Much Time Do People Spend on Social Media in 2019? [Infographic]: https://medium.com/@JBBC/how-much-time-do-people-spend-on-social-media-in-2019-infographic-cc02c63bede8HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS & FIND TIME FOR THE CREATIVE WORK, TOO: https://www.marieforleo.com/2016/03/time-management/// Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show (pre-recorded long before the COVID-19 pandemic), host Shontavia Johnson talks about using conferences to build your business and brand. She provides advice about how to get the coveted invitation from conference organizers, including how to choose a speaking topic, how to create content around your speaking topic, and how to create "social proof" of your speaking abilities--even if you haven't been invited to speak anywhere yet. Shontavia also provides a list of +100 conferences that can serve as starting points for your research and eventual speaker pitches. 01:37 Story about how attending one conference (where I was told my idea was trash) led to me winning international awards and being invited to the TEDx stage 10:26 The three things you should aim to do as a conference speaker 12:51 How to get the invitation from conference organizers to serve as a speaker 16:14 Why I think you need to create a vision before accepting any speaking engagements18:01 How to choose the topic you plan to speak about in 3-4 words 19:37 Why creating content around your speaking topic is critically important 20:41 The types of content you can create to grow your speaking opportunties 23:29 How to develop some "social proof" of your speaking capabilities 24:16 Where to find conferences to pitch yourself as a speaker// Show NotesCreate your vision: https://shontavia.com/starthere/List of +100 conferences: http://listofconferences.com/Being Prepared For the Future of Events for Speakers and Event Professionals: https://gravityspeakers.com/being-prepared-for-the-future-of-events-for-speakers-and-event-professionals/ How Not to Pitch Yourself as a Speaker: https://archive.yellowco.co/blog/2018/05/07/how-to-not-pitch-yourself-speaker/ How to pitch for speaking opportunities at a conference: 3 tips for success: https://muckrack.com/blog/2019/02/13/how-to-pitch-for-speaking-opportunities-at-conferencesHow to Pitch Yourself (or Your CEO) as a Speaker: https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-pitch-yourself-or-your-ceo-as-a-speaker //Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://

On this week's episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson speaks with Sherrica Sims, who has received more than 13 million views and counting on a viral YouTube video featuring her and her daughter.Seeing the potential opportunity to leverage their millions of views, Sherrica turned her family's viral moment into Simply Sims - a brand based on her family's digital content. Sherrica also founded Go Be Great Productions, a business entity that houses all of their brand and partnership opportunities.To date, the Simply Sims brand has appeared on shows including Ellen, Little Big Shots, and Good Morning America. Simply Sims has also worked with brands like YouTube, Nickelodeon, Kohl's, and #RyansPlayDate. In this episode, Sherrica talks about how she's turned a 3.5 minute video into a dynamic brand and successful business. //Show Highlights02:15 How growing up in a very religious home led Sherrica Sims to finding her own voice03:13 Why Sherrica created the viral video that now has more than 13 million views04:47 How Sherrica received help in making her video go viral06:07 How people make money off of viral videos09:25 How Sherrica capitalized on the new attention from her viral video by listening to her target audience10:33 How 2 years of consistency led to a partnership with YouTube11:44 How Sherrica created a business after her viral video13:16 How having a family brand impacts the Sims family16:01 How to secure brand deals while being true to yourself19:18 How content creators make money online23:02 Three things people need to do if they want to become content creators/influencers24:47 Who's helped Sherrica build her successful business and platform27:51 Where to find the Simply Sims brand online// Show NotesMy 3 year old tries to get out of trouble by telling stories with Tiffany Sims: https://youtu.be/MVs71CBX7J8Simply Sims YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConfdDrYWwZm_rUtTYnf6hwSimply Sims on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplysimsfamily/Simply Sims on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysimsfamily/ Simply Sims on Twitter: https://twitter.com/simplysimsFam Simply Sims on Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@simplysimsfamily //Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson runs through copyrights 101--she talks about why content creators--and everybody who uses/posts things on social media--probably interact with, and create more, copyrighted work than any other type of intellectual property. She also explains why, even though you don't have to register works with the Copyright Office, you might want to think about it. If you've ever wondered if you own any copyrighted work, and what you should do if you do, this episode is for you! 02:05 Missy Elliott's important definition of copyrights!03:21 The importance of copyrights for content creators04:43 Taking it all the way back to the U.S. Constitution05:45 The three things you need to protect your work via copyright law12:17 What you DON'T need to protect your work via copyright law16:14 Why your work can suck and still be copyrighted18:39 Why you may want to pay to register your copyrighted work with the Copyright Office, even though you don't have to21:57 How long copyright protection lasts23:45 What copyright protection gives you26:12 Why you should understand copyright law, even if you have a team of lawyers// Show Notes How to copyright your content: https://shontavia.com/how-to-protect-the-content-youve-created/ Don't put off protecting your work: https://shontavia.com/you-may-be-ignoring-the-most-important-parts-of-your-business/Copyright Protection: What it Is, How it Works: https://fairuse.stanford.edu/overview/faqs/copyright-protection/Copyright Definition: https://www.thebalancesmb.com/copyright-definition-2948254Answers from the U.S. Copyright Office to Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright: https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/index.html//Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/ Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/ YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of The Shontavia Show, host Shontavia Johnson runs through trademarks 101--she talks about why trademarks are one of the most important components of a business, and the different types of trademarks that exist. If you're wondering what a trademark is and whether you have any, check out this episode! *AKAs: please don't be mad about my comment about the SKEE-WEE! It is all in love, and I really respect that your organization has built an amazing intellectual property strategy. I wish the rest of the D9 would do the same :-). Find a full summary and show notes at: https://shontavia.com/16-2/ .01:08 How trademarks protect the relationship between entrepreneur and customer/client.03:16 What is a trademark? The definition and examples04:00 AKA SKEE WEE trademark example (no disrepect to AKAs intended!)05:00 The legal requirements to have a protectable trademark07:34 The 4 trademark categories: arbitrary/fanciful, suggestive, merely descriptive, and generic14:22 4 ways to protect your trademark// Show Notes AKA's “Skee Wee” Sound is Now a Registered Trademark: https://popcultureclass.com/2017/01/12/akas-skee-wee-sound-is-now-a-registered-trademark/Goats on the Roof: Iconic Wisconsin Restaurant Wins Trade Dress Dispute: http://www.dewittllp.com/news-education/posts/2019/12/16/goats-on-the-roof-iconic-wisconsin-restaurant-wins-trade-dress-dispute How to protect and register your trademarks: https://shontavia.com/how-to-protect-and-register-your-trademarks/What does it mean to “use” a trademark?: https://shontavia.com/what-does-it-mean-to-use-a-trademark-little-word-big-question/You can trademark almost anything : https://shontavia.com/you-can-trademark-almost-anything/Secretary of State's Offices: https://tinyurl.com/w4fye7l Registering your business: A directory: https://shontavia.com/where-to-incorporate-your-business-a-directory///Social MediaTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShontaviaJEsqInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shontaviajesq/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shontaviajesq/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shontaviajesq/Tumblr: http://shontaviajesq.tumblr.com/YouTube: https://www.shontavia.tv

In this episode of the #ShontaviaShow, host Shontavia Johnson interviews Harold Hughes, the Founder and CEO of Bandwagon Fanclub, Inc., about raising money in the twenty-first century startup world. Harold, a first-generation Jamaican-American, provides some incredible insights about starting from ground zero after being fired from his six-figure job while his wife was pregnant with their first child. To date, Bandwagon has raised more than $2 million dollars and participated in prestigious programs like Google for Startups, IBM Blockchain Accelerator, and The Founder Institute. In this episode, Harold talks about landing his first investor, finding investors on Twitter, and why mentoring women and black founders is so important to him. // Show Notes Harold Hughes on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OneBandwagonFan/ Bandwagon: https://bandwagonfanclub.com/ Harold's Medium page: https://medium.com/@OneBandwagonFanHere's Your Chance to Invest in the Blockchain Technology Curbing Ticket Fraud: https://www.blackenterprise.com/blockchain-bandwagon-equity-crowdfunding-ticket-fraud/ Bandwagon Aims to Solve Ticket Fraud With The Blockchain: https://cryptobriefing.com/bandwagon-ticket-fraud-blockchain/ Ticket Scalpers, Beware! Blockchain Is Coming for You (#50, Bandwagon): https://gimletmedia.com/shows/the-pitch/kwhaw8‘We Had An Acquisition Offer. We Turned It Down': Bandwagon Founder Harold Hughes On Mogul Watch: https://moguldom.com/157548/bandwagon-blockchain-sports-fan-analytics-company/ The Venture Capital Fundraising Landscape: https://www.siskar.co/blog/2019/11/1/the-venture-capital-fundraising-landscape For Communities Of Color, Startup Funding Efforts Can Hold Promise And Pitfalls: https://www.fastcompany.com/40512319/backing-startups-outside-of-silicon-valley-dont-overlook-families-of-color //Show Outline00:03:34: Harold's childhood in the U.S. and Jamaica 00:06:10: Harold's experience with the "black tax" (income black professionals give to their families to support them) 00:12:44: How Harold originally funded his startup with his own money and an Indiegogo campaign 00:14:04: How getting fired from a six-figure job led to Harold working on his startup full-time 00:20:19: How Harold landed his first 6-figure investor 00:23:54: Using Twitter to land high-profile investors 00:25:57: How Harold used creative recruiting (and a creative salary structure) to hire his first software developer 00:27:05: How to set a valuation for your new startup 00:30:26: How doing a podcast interview landed Bandwagon a new investor 00:32:02: The one service you must use if you're raising money for your startup 00:32:28: How Bandwagon has raised $2 million and its financial philosophy 00:33:30: How Harold built Bandwagon's very diverse team00:37:14: Why Bandwagon turned down an acquisition offer 00:40:15: The mentors who have helped Harold and Bandwagon succeed 00:41:59: Why Harold says his best mentors have been his peers and other startup founders of color 00:43:30: What's next for Bandwagon 00:44:17:&