Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew, HonD, is the CEO and founder of the Root Branch empire, which includes the award-winning Root Branch Media Group and multiple ventures spanning media, education, and community development. With 27 years of experience as a filmmaker, writer, producer, and director, she has created content for networks like Discovery and TV One, and served clients across government and corporate sectors. A University of Maryland alumna and 2023 Baltimore Leadership Class graduate, she holds an honorary doctorate in Business Philosophy. Dr. Pettigrew is a board member for the Red Cross of Central Maryland and a respected member of the National Association of Black Journalists, National Association of Women Business Owners, and other national organizations. She was named a 2023 Top 100 Woman in Maryland.

In this episode, Leonard and Vonnya discuss:

• How Root Branch Media Group grew from a vision to a full Baltimore city block
• Using media to close learning gaps during the pandemic
• Scaling a mission-driven business from 3 to 40+ employees
• The power of storytelling in small business marketing and youth education
• Redefining legacy without children, through entrepreneurship and impact

Key Takeaways:

• Root Branch didn’t just start as a business—it began with a family road in rural South Carolina and evolved into a thriving, intentional ecosystem spanning media, education, and real estate. It’s a living tribute to heritage, purpose, and generational growth.
• When schools shut down during the pandemic, Dr. Pettigrew responded with innovation—adapting Root Branch’s media arts education for virtual learning and maintaining opportunities for both students and displaced teaching artists.
• For Dr. Pettigrew, media isn’t merely a product—it’s a powerful tool for shifting narratives, building economic access, and preserving legacies within marginalized communities.
• Purchasing an entire city block wasn’t just a real estate move—it marked a historic milestone. Dr. Pettigrew became the first Black woman to own a full block along Baltimore’s waterfront, anchoring Black-owned innovation in the heart of the city.
• Her success didn’t happen in isolation. Surrounding herself with seasoned professionals, seeking mentorship, and staying connected to collaborative peer networks gave her the insight and courage to scale boldly and sustainably.

“I believe that this whole ordeal has been a blessing, and that I was chosen for a purpose, and a part of fulfilling that purpose is to share it and to help others on a path to gain just as much success.”

- Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew

Connect with Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew:

Website: https://rootbranchmediagroup.com/home 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-vonnya-pettigrew-hond-75161664/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootbranchmg/ 

Connect with Leonard Raskin:

Website: https://www.raskinglobal.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonardraskin/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaskinGlobal 

Email: [email protected]  

Leonard’s BOOK: FiduciWho?: What a Real Fiduciary Will Tell You about How to Protect, Grow, Enjoy, and Transfer Your Wealth

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

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