We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 84:

Guest Name: Felicia Cotton

Guest Business: Xoxoxo Cosmetics 

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Felicia Cotton with founder and president of Xoxoxo Cosmetics. Felicia details her upbringing highlighting her love for all things feminine despite growing up with majority male family members. 

Felicia embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2019. Her website went live in February 2020, just before the onset of the pandemic. Operating amidst a time when face masks became a necessity presented its difficulties, particularly as her product centered around lip cosmetics.   Supported by her loyal network of family and friends, who consistently purchased her products and helped spread the word, Felicia navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship. Moreover, she capitalized on the trend of popup shops, which experienced a resurgence during the pandemic. Leveraging this opportunity, Felicia successfully introduced her brand to a wider audience, capitalizing on the evolving landscape of retail amidst the pandemic

If you want to learn more about the process of crafting and manufacturing your own product this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was Felicia like as a child?
2. What is the inspiration behind Xoxoxo Cosmetics?  
3. How did she test her products?
4. What brings Felicia joy?
5. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with xoxoxo Cosmetics 

Visit the website: http://www.xoxoxocosmetics.com/

Follow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/xoxoxocosmetics2020

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 83:

Guest Name: Angelique Warner

Guest Business: A Warner Idea LLC

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Angelique Warner, founder and president of A Warner Idea LLC and the visionary behind GoGoVie premium baby carrier. Angelique details her upbringing, describing herself as inquisitive and a dreamer in her childhood. Not only did she dream vividly, but she could also recall her dreams in great detail; these traits proved to be her asset as she went on to become an inventor in her adult life. 

Angelique led a busy life in early motherhood; she was a mother of three small children and ran an in-home boarding school, with up to 17 children in her home at a time. This busyness bore inspiration. When her children became self-sufficient, she embarked on creating a solution to a common parenting challenge: needing a hands-free customizable carrier. She invented the 7-in-1 hybrid sling & buckled carrier, later dubbed GoGoVie. She recounts the journey of patenting and manufacturing her product, as well as refining its name through different iterations. Recognizing a need, Angelique shifted the target audience from mothers to all parents and caretakers.

Angelique Warner is the USA's first Black female to create & manufacture the only patented 7-in-1 hybrid sling & buckled carrier; boasting a 5-in-1 private, hands-free breastfeeding solution. She continues to create purposeful products that help improve healthcare outcomes for babies through babywearing, bonding & breastfeeding & improving the overall quality of life of the user.

If you want to learn more about the process of  inventing and manufacturing your own product of art this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was Angelique like as a child?
2. What is the inspiration behind GoGoVie? 
3. The patent process 
4. Where does she manufacture her products?
5. What brings Angelique joy?
6. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Angelique and GoGoVie

Visit the website: https://www.gogovie.com

Follow them on Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/mygogovie/?hl=en

Connect with them on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/mygogovie

Connect with her  on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelique-warner-a2928a33/

Read ‘Successful Women Inventors’: 

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 82:

Guest Name: Dr. Jennifer Matthews

Guest Business: Dr. Jennifer Matthews Consulting Agency 

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Jennifer Matthews, who is Founder & CEO of Dr. Jennifer Matthews Consulting Agency. Dr. Matthews comes from a family of law-enforcement as she is the 3rd Generation to pursue a career in this field. Dr. Matthews is a driving force behind digital transformations to solve cases quicker with body-worn cameras. She blends her knowledge of law enforcement, psychology, communication, and leadership development to help organizations and individuals. 

If you want to learn more about navigating the food and beverage industry this is the episode for you. 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. How Dr. Jennifer’s childhood impacted her journey to who she is today?
2. What was Dr. Jennifer’s journey into law-enforcement?
3. What is her perspective on body cameras and the benefits the camera brings?
4. How does Dr. Jennifer uses her influence and knowledge to connect with her community?
5. How her work in digital media helps both civilians and law enforcement? 

To connect with Dr. Jennifer Matthews Consulting Agency 

Visit her website: drjennifermatthews.com  

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennifermatthewsconsulting/

 Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 81:

Guest Name: LaTrina Joshua

Guest Business: Bijou Body Spa

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with  LaTrina Joshua, CEO of Bijou Body Spa. With a profound commitment to healthcare and a passion for helping individuals look and feel their best, LaTrina Joshua has built a career that bridges the realms of medicine and aesthetics. LaTrina details her upbringing and her passion for helping others, a passion instilled in her by her mother and grandmother. This passion led to a career in nursing that lasted 20 years. LaTrina felt a calling to empower individuals in ways that extended beyond traditional medical care In 2019 she began to research and educate herself about non-invasive surgeries and ways to liquefy fat. This desire to enhance people's confidence and quality of life led to the establishment of Bijou Body Spa a medical and aesthetics spa based in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood. 

LaTrina details the offerings at the Bijou Body Spa emphasizing the importance of proportional changes and post-operative care 

If you want to learn more about the importance of holistic care and non-invasive surgery this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was LaTrina like as a child?
2. Larina’s Nursing Experience 
3. Examples of invasive surgery 
4. The impact of these surgeries on family and caretakers 
5. What are some trends within theBijou Body Spa
6. What brings LaTrina joy?
7. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Bijou Body Spa

Visit the website:https://www.liberatedarts.org/

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bijoubodyspa/

Connect with them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bijoubodyspa

Follow them on X: https://twitter.com/Bijoubodyspa

Connect with her on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/latrina-joshua-4b5436a1/

Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #black businesses matter  

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 80:

Guest Name: Tara Levy

Guest Business: Liberated Arts Movement

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Tara Levy, founder of the Liberated Arts Movement. Tara details her upbringing highlighting her early love for art she recounts the moments in her childhood when she spent hours drawing and journaling. As an adolescent, she worked at the Goodman Theater where she nurtured her passion for creative writing. After graduating  Tara transitioned into the education system she was able to teach in various capacities which helped to inspire the Liberated Arts Movement. She outlines the movement's focus, emphasizing its dedication to nurturing, educating, and developing youth and underserved communities.

Tara elaborates on the impactful initiatives of the Liberated Arts Movement, shedding light on her latest venture, Liberated Writers, a combination of her passions. She also highlights key partnerships with organizations such as thee NAACP, Urban League and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, underscoring their pivotal roles in advancing the movement's mission.

Tara highlights the Harvest—an inspiring exhibition showcasing the talents of BIPOC visual and performing artists—initiated with great success in 2022. Tara's narrative not only captures the essence of her journey but also celebrates the collective efforts driving the Liberated Arts Movement forward.

If you want to learn more about the importance of art and liberation in BIPOC and underserved communities this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was Tara like as a child?
2. How is the Liberated Arts Movement structured? 
3. The impact of the Liberated Arts movement? 
4. Liberated Writers-a new initiative 
5. What is the inspiration behind the name “liberated”
6. What brings Tara joy?
7. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Liberated Arts Movement

Visit the website:https://www.liberatedarts.org/

Follow them on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/liberatedartsmovement/

Connect with them on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/liberatedartsmovement

Read ‘All is Well’: https://a.co/d/isDALT1

Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #black businesses matter  

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 79:

Guest Name: Chiquita Hall-Jackson

Guest Business:  Blow the Whistle Law and Hall-Jackson and Associates, P.C.

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Chiquita Hall-Jackson, an award-winning licensed attorney and adjunct law professor, the visionary behind the Blow The Whistle Law social justice movement and the founder of Top Employment Law Firm Hall-Jackson & Associates P.C.  Chiquita details her upbringing revealing that her love for law and value for justice was instilled in her at an early age. She began gaining experience in the law field throughout high school with the help of her various mentors and transitioning from undergrad to Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge. 

Chiquita delves into her groundbreaking achievement as the first Black president of the National Employment Lawyers Association(NELA), shedding light on the hurdles she faced as a Black woman navigating through a predominantly white-dominated space. She candidly shares the concept of 'Pet to Threat,' elucidated in her book "We Gon' Be Alright," which encapsulates the subtle yet pervasive microaggressions she encountered, even from those who supported her ascent. Through her advocacy and the mission of Blow the Whistle Law, Chiquita aims to empower individuals to confront and address workplace injustices, striving towards a more equitable and inclusive environment.

If you want to learn more about employment law and your rights as an employee this this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was Chiquita like as a child?
2. Did Chiquita experience any micro-aggressions as the President of the NELA? 
3. The Term ‘Pet to Threat’ 
4. How to protect employees after her services are provided? 
5. What brings Chiquita joy?
6. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Blow the Whistle Law

Visit the website: https://chiquitahall-jackson.com/

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blowthewhistlelaw/

Connect with them on Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/labor-employment-law/110339025208738/

Connect with them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiquita-hall-jackson/

Read ‘We Gon Be Alright’: https://blowthewhistlelaw.com/we-gon-be-alright/

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 78

Guest Name:  Terrence Chappell

Guest Business: Chappell Communications Group

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Terrence Chappell the Principal of Chappell Communications Group, a social media agency that specializes in socializing nuanced messaging among cultural communities. He partners with clients and organizations to tap into the human experience across advocacy and mission-based work. Terrence recounts his upbringing on the south side of Chicago and how his father emphasized the importance of having and honing a marketable skill. Terrence's professional journey, which started in journalism, took an exciting turn with Effin Vodka, where he played a key role in expanding the LGBT clientele in Chicago. His involvement in the host committee paved the way for him to enthusiastically embrace the position of digital manager, encouraged by his father's wisdom. A stint at Burrell Communications, a significant rite of passage for marketers in Chicago, ultimately led to the establishment of his communication group. 

Terrence delves into the art of nuanced messaging, explaining how Chappell Communications Group tailors approaches for various subsectors, especially focusing on black and brown communities. He shares insights into his incorporation of AI into daily operations, emphasizing its role as a remarkable support tool for quantitative data gathering. However, Terrence candidly acknowledges the limitations of AI, addressing blind spots in humanizing data and biases arising from incomplete inputs. 

If you want to learn more about marketing and nuanced communication this is the episode for you. 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. How did Terrence’s upbringing influence who he is today? 
2. What is nuanced communication?
3. How does he view AI? 
4. Is there room for all of the boutique agency? 
5. Why do black businesses matter?
6. What brings Terrence joy?

Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrence-chappell-b9917321/

Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terrence_chappell/

Stream & Download Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 77:

Guest Name: Abigail Ingram

Guest Business: Polsky Exchange 

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I had the opportunity to talk with Abigail Ingram. Abigail Ingram is the executive director of the Polsky Exchange. Polsky Exchange is the core of The Polsky’s Center community engagement with the Southside of Chicago. This gathering space services local businesses owners and entrepreneurs with co-working spaces, program initiatives and access to resources to support and uplift their journey with entrepreneurship . Abigail's background includes obtaining her Master’s and JD from Depaul University. Although Abigail is deeply educated, she continued to establish opportunities for underrepresented communities by launching the Women in Entrepreneurship Institute (WEI) at DePaul University’s Driehaus College of Business, where she served as the inaugural director. Abigail has a passion for creating and providing opportunities for entrepreneurs. The Polsky Center is fueled by igniting the spirit of innovation and establishing meaningful connections. Abigail dives deep into the opportunities for access and resources and how it is necessary for business to succeed. She talks about how she is leveraging her position to create more opportunities for resources for business owners. 

If you want to learn more about navigating the food and beverage industry this is the episode for you. 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. How did Abigail’s upbringing influence who she is today? 
2. What is the Polsky Center and how does it service the Southside of Chicago?
3. Why is access important for marginalized communities? 
4. How Abigail’s advocacy has influenced evolution for small business owners. 
5. Why is higher education meaningful in leading and expanding different communities?

To connect with The Polsky Exchange 

Visit their website: https://polsky.uchicago.edu/

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polskycenter/

 Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter  

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Episode 76:

Guest Name: Kyra Rénel Hardwick 

Guest Business: The Kyra Company

Summary Style

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I speak with Kyra Rénel Hardwick founder and Managing Consultant of The Kyra Company—a dynamic business development solutions firm committed to a comprehensive approach to addressing operational opportunities within organizations..Kyra reflects on her challenging childhood, emphasizing the resilience that always led her to perceive opportunities. Sharing wisdom with Gen Z, she provides hope and inspiration for a brighter future, highlighting their impactful contribution and embodiment of resilience in her business.

We delve into Kyra's 20-year corporate journey, gaining experience in automotive design, health care, and technology. She also introduces Imagine Excellence, her non-profit focusing on leadership development for 14-18-year-olds, born out of her childhood challenges. Kyra outlines her business model, emphasizing deep client relationships that involve immersing into their company to assess needs, drive operational improvements, and empower teams—ultimately propelling clients to prominence in the corporate realm.

Kyra highlights one of her most recent endeavors Resurgence® Accelerator 

Sponsored By JP Morgan Chase & Co. This initiative is tailored to enhance business growth through education, aiming to create opportunities for business owners to be eligible for access to funding.

If you want to learn more about or need business development this is the episode and business for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was Kyra like as a little girl?
2. The impact of Gen Z.
3. How The Kyra Company functions.
4. The importance of relationship building.
5. Resurgence® Accelerator 
6. What brings Kyra joy?
7. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Kyra

Learn About Resurgence® Accelerator: https://www.resurgenceaccelerator.com/chicago

Visit the website: http://www.thekyracompany.com/

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekyrarenel/

Connect with them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12504868/

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter

We would love to hear from you! Text "BBMFAM" to (312) 300-1300.

Guest Name: Cle Andrea Hayden and Lori Pelzer
Guest Business: Inked Digital Marketing and Girlgobegreat

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Black Businesses Matter, I interview Cle Andrea Hayden, Founder and Chief Digital Strategist of Inked Digital Marketing Agency, and Lori Pelzer, CEO of Girlgobegreat, a Professional and personal development company, and GirlgobegreatAI. The discussion delves into AI, defining it as a technological tool with a focus on data collection algorithms. Cle Andrea sheds light on the digital marketing perspective, viewing AI as a data collection tool that is already widely utilized in the industry. She stresses the significance of considering intergenerational experiences in analyzing and adapting to AI. Lori and Cle Andrea share their initial encounters with AI tools like Chat GPT, highlighting their efficiency and integration into their professional lives. Lori explains as an innovator in the coaching space AI provides her clients with the ability to multiply themselves creating a space for efficiency. The two address the fear surrounding AI for black entrepreneurs. Lori advocates for the use of AI as an equalizer, emphasizing its potential to empower black entrepreneurs. Cle Andrea stresses the need for customized adaptation in black businesses to drive substantial growth. Both offer insights into helping business owners embrace AI as a tool, emphasizing the value of trial and education in the AI adoption process.
If you want to learn more about AI and how to incorporate it in your business this is the episode for you! 

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. AI 
2. How is AI viewed in the digital marketing space?
3. What were their first experiences with AI?
4. How to incorporate AI into your business? 
5. How business owners can embrace AI? 
6. How to address the fear associated with AI? 
7. What brings them joy?
8. Why do black businesses matter?

Stream and download the Black Businesses Matter Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Stitcher, Pandora, and Spotify!

To connect with Lori Pelzer
Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loripelzer/
Connect with them on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Loripelzer
Connect with them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lori-pelzer-86423054

To Connect With CleAndea Hayden and Inked Digital Marketing 

Visit the website: https://www.inkeddigitalagency.com/
Follow them on Instagram:

Support the show

To connect further with me:
Visit my website: Thel3agency.com
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thel3agency
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larvettaspeaks/
Connect with me on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/thel3agency
Be sure to follow our podcast on Instagram. I can't wait to see you join us and take the pledge of #blackbusinessesmatter