Entrepreneurial Appetite

What if you could broaden your definition of design to encompass everyday life and systemic change? Join us in this enlightening episode where we welcome Dr. Terresa Moses, editor of the groundbreaking anthology "Blackness State of Black Design," and Shawn Rhoder, founder of Nomad Inc., as they share their unique perspectives on the intersections of Black identity and design. Dr. Moses discusses the critical catalyst behind her anthology, driven by the profound impact of George Floyd's murder, while Shawn Rhoder emphasizes the need to recognize design beyond traditional confines. Together, they explore how the Black experience can serve as a powerful and valid research methodology, advocating for the inclusion of Black voices in design and publishing.

As we navigate the complexities of creating community-centered designs, we underscore the necessity of empathy and intentionality. Our guests reflect on a poignant case study illustrating the pitfalls of well-meaning but misguided community interventions, and we delve into the ways the pandemic has reshaped our connections. Through heartfelt anecdotes, we stress the importance of designing spaces that facilitate relationship-building and highlight the often-overlooked art of stewardship. Moreover, we discuss the importance of understanding and respecting the relational dynamics of various cultures to foster truly inclusive environments.

Finally, we address the emotional journey of building trust within the Black community, especially in tech and design sectors. Our conversation examines the influence of systemic barriers like white supremacy and capitalism on trust and collaboration. By fostering open communication and establishing community agreements, we aim to build stronger networks that contribute to collective liberation. Additionally, we explore the challenges of maintaining authenticity in Black design amidst a capitalist landscape, stressing the need to amplify Black voices to preserve the genuine spirit and aesthetic of Black culture. This episode promises to inspire and educate, offering valuable insights into the multifaceted world of Black design.

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Ready to uncover the paths of Black leadership in corporate America? This episode promises a deep dive into   Dr. Chuck Wallington's transformative journeys with special guest host Jewel Love. 

Join our guest host, Jewel Love, as he sits down with Dr. Chuck Wallington, the author of "A Seat at the C-Suite Table: Insights from Leadership Journeys of African Americans." This compelling conversation unravels the unique challenges that Black executives face, dispelling the myth of meritocracy in corporate circles. Through Dr. Wallington's extensive research involving interviews with 30 Black male executives, we gain profound insights into the critical role of networks and connections in career advancement. Discover the necessity of mentorship, coaching, and sponsorship while navigating the complex dynamics of corporate culture.

What does it take to drive systemic change in US corporations? Dr. Wallington emphasizes the collective effort required to address racial disparities, highlighting actionable steps toward inclusivity and representation. Reflecting on his career, he shares personal anecdotes about leading talented teams and fostering a culture of belonging. This episode not only honors the dedication of Black leaders but also underscores the importance of everyone’s involvement in promoting meaningful change. Tune in for an enriching conversation beyond surface-level discussions, offering actionable insights and inspiration for all.

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Ever wondered how it feels to walk the hallowed halls of Harvard only to drop out and then return to walk the stage at graduation? Meet Rahsaan King – a Harvard dropout, entrepreneur, and inspirational figure whose story is anything but ordinary. Our conversation unwraps his journey from an eager high-schooler with big dreams to a struggling Harvard student grappling with mental health, imposter syndrome, and a sense of alienation. 

Rahsaan's resilience and strength saw him through some of the darkest days of his life, and he shares the transformative experience he had after joining the Harvard Polo Club. Tackling the world of the elite, Rahsaan discovered that success goes beyond the confines of a classroom, and it was this realization that helped him complete his degree while managing his budding business. His story is not just about overcoming personal challenges, it's a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of determination.

Finally, we trace Rahsaan's current mission of transforming a healthcare desert into a potentially thriving oasis back in his hometown, Houston. His experiences at Harvard are now shaping the lives of people in his community. This episode serves as a testament to Rahsaan's unyielding spirit – an inspiring chapter for anyone looking for a spark of motivation and a reminder that it's never too late to rewrite your story. Join us as we delve into Rahsaan's compelling journey – a tale filled with obstacles, triumphs, and one man's unwavering spirit of resilience.

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Are you ready to be inspired by the profound journey of Ron Kelley, the founder and CEO of the National Mentoring Foundation? Join us as Ron shares his incredible story from championing hip-hop in San Antonio to becoming a beacon of black intellectualism and entrepreneurship. His deep insights about the value of education for black males and the transformative power of tenure for black men will leave you moved and motivated.

Ron's passion for mentoring is palpable throughout the discussion. He speaks with candor about his involvement with Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, Freemasonry, and his own company - platforms that have enabled his mentoring initiatives to flourish. Listen as Ron gives us a glimpse into the power of building community through organizations, alumni connections, and the strength of a brotherhood committed to success.

But the conversation doesn't end there. Ron is a prolific writer and a voracious reader. A treat for the bibliophiles among us, he discusses his 10+ books and current reads that have ignited self-pride and respect for black women within him. Finally, we delve into the secret sauce for staying motivated, pursuing your passion, and sustaining growth. A riveting discussion with Ron Kelly awaits you, a mentor whose journey transcends entrepreneurship and seeps into the heart of the community.

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What if you could transform your life by choosing the right college? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Monique Cannon Broadnecks, founder of I Embrace Education, and Aisha Roscoe, host of NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday and author of "HBCU Made." We kick things off with Monique's compelling story of guiding students from San Antonio to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Aisha shares her heartfelt journey to Howard University amidst the chaos of the DC sniper attacks, and how this choice shaped her into the person she is today. They both reflect on the unique challenges and cultural shocks faced by HBCU students, emphasizing the transformative power of Howard's School of Communications and the sense of community instilled through vibrant homecoming events.

Ever wondered how Oprah Winfrey, Stacey Abrams, and April Ryan rose to prominence? This episode highlights the pivotal role of HBCUs in shaping successful careers, drawing from the poignant stories featured in Aisha's book, "HBCU Made." From Oprah's inspiring commencement speech at Tennessee State to April Ryan’s relatable journey as a radio station worker at Morgan State, we delve into how these institutions nurture talent through a blend of family, faith, and campus life. We also explore the meticulous selection of essays in the book, designed to maintain momentum and offer diverse perspectives, blending serious insights with light-hearted anecdotes.

Discover the broader impact of HBCUs on individuals and communities with our special guests. We'll discuss the nurturing environment of these institutions that turn students into successful professionals, regardless of their high school achievements. The episode also touches on the increasing competitiveness of top HBCUs, the unique camaraderie among alumni, and the significance of Vice President Kamala Harris's representation. Finally, we consider the future potential of HBCUs and the timeless relevance of "HBCU Made" as a resource for high school guidance counselors and prospective students. Tune in for a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy and transformative power of HBCUs.

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What if Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) hold the key to saving our democracy and our planet? This episode promises to reveal compelling insights into how HBCUs foster socially responsible leaders equipped to tackle both. Join us as we celebrate Dr. Langston Clark's 40th birthday with a mission to secure 40 new donors for the From A&T to PhD Endowed Scholarship, supporting educators on their journey to graduate degrees. Hear transformative stories from A&T alumni and discover the scholarship's powerful impact on their careers.

You'll also gain unique perspectives from Dr. Wilson, who shares his experiences navigating the cultural and academic landscapes of Morehouse College and Harvard Divinity School. Understand the stark contrasts and learn about the importance of fostering inclusive environments in higher education. We emphasize the evolving role of HBCUs in shaping leaders who prioritize communal progress, especially in times when predominantly white institutions struggle with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Finally, we explore the metaphorical "fluttering veil" over HBCUs—are these institutions on the brink of their finest hour or facing decline? Delve into the financial sustainability of educational institutions, comparing the fortunes of HBCUs and well-endowed colleges like Grinnell. Learn about the critical role of strategic leadership in securing financial stability and how investing in the goodness of graduates can drive societal change. This episode is a call to support educational opportunities for Black educators and underscores the transformative power of education.

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What if securing over $200,000 in scholarships was just the beginning of an inspiring journey? Join us as we sit down with Abidemi Awojuyigbe, a Nigerian-born graduate of Prairie View A&M and prize winner of the Black Ambition Contest. Abidemi shares her incredible story of overcoming the financial hurdles international students face, and how her relentless pursuit of scholarships not only funded her education but also ignited her passion for helping others through the creation of the Scholist App.

Moving from the University of Houston to Prairie View A&M University, Abidemi discovered a unique landscape of opportunities specifically designed for students of color. We delve into the innovative programs like HBCUvc and Black Ambition that provide unparalleled support for HBCU students and graduates. Abidemi opens up about how these programs helped her excel in her entrepreneurial journey, and we discuss the strategic advantages that HBCUs offer over less prestigious PWIs, especially in fields like engineering and science.

In our conversation, we explore the game-changing features of the Scholist App, from its snooze function for scholarship reminders to its marketplace for personalized scholarship consultants. Abidemi's dedication to making educational opportunities accessible to all students, including undocumented, non-traditional, and transfer students, is truly inspiring. We also highlight the vibrant culture of innovation and entrepreneurship at HBCUs, particularly at Prairie View A&M University, and how these institutions are nurturing the next generation of successful entrepreneurs. Don't miss out on this empowering episode filled with insights and inspiration!

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Embark on an inspiring expedition with Anita Jarman, the creator of the Ji Li Project and a passionate Ph.D. student. Our conversation reveals how her global odyssey, from the bustling streets of Beijing as a student journalist to the hallowed halls of Georgetown, has illuminated the essence of cross-cultural experiences in fostering both personal and professional development. Anita's narrative is a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit she encountered among young Africans in China and a testament to the transformative power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities in shaping leaders who bridge continents and cultures.

In this episode, we delve into the heart of student growth with the Ji Li Project's transformative journey. Witness how a simple blogging initiative blossomed into a crucial haven for students navigating academia and the workforce, especially amidst the challenges of a global pandemic. The 1890 Project takes center stage, as we honor the intellect pervading HBCU campuses, drawing inspiration from educational pioneers like Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. Anita and I dissect the nuances of guiding students to celebrate their achievements through published works and the profound impact of nurturing the next generation of scholars.

As our dialogue takes a deeper turn, we explore the intersections of corporate America, government, and the entrepreneurial landscape within the education sector. I share my own experiences in the trenches of philanthropy, from raising substantial funds to dreaming big with an educational endowment aimed at empowering graduate students. We underscore the importance of community and strategic collective action in bolstering HBCUs and pay homage to the alumni whose significant contributions continue to advance these vital institutions. Join us for this enriching discussion that celebrates the brilliance of HBCU students and the dedication required to ensure their legacies thrive.

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Embark on an inspiring journey with the dynamic Ebonie Johnson Cooper, a true Aggie icon and a visionary in philanthropy and nonprofit education. Our latest episode captures her profound experiences from student life at A&T to her influential work on the Obama campaign and the creation of Young Black and Giving Back. Ebonie's story is a beacon of dedication, showcasing how one's collegiate roots can germinate into a career that redefines the landscape of Black philanthropy and leadership.

This episode is a must-listen for those curious about Ebonie's innovative approach to intergenerational leadership in black organizations. Imagine the vibrancy and strength of nonprofits that mirror the communities they serve, with board members from all walks of life bringing their unique perspectives to the table. Ebonie touches on the necessity for these organizations to authentically represent their black community, ensuring at least 50% black staff and board members, while still valuing the richness of diverse voices. The discussion sparks a deeper understanding of the power of age diversity, mentorship, and the critical role of an inclusive narrative within philanthropy.

As the conversation progresses, we unwrap the layers of community impact through the lens of audiobooks and storytelling. Ebonie's profound insights into the role of literature in shaping entrepreneurial and social endeavors are both refreshing and enlightening. Join us in celebrating the successful strides made by Young Black and Giving Back, diving into their strategic use of board matrices, and the heartwarming tales of how giving circles and audio narratives are forging tighter bonds within our communities. Don't miss this thought-provoking exploration that intertwines the threads of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community service.

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What if you could wear "racial battle armor" to better navigate societal challenges? Join us for an enlightening episode with Dr. Langston Clark as we explore the powerful role Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play in shaping resilient, successful individuals. Dr. Clark shares the inspiring story behind the From A&T to PhD Endowed Scholarship at North Carolina A&T State University and discusses the increased financial commitment to the scholarship in June and July. We'll hear from alumni and authors, capturing the essence of HBCUs' impact through personal testimonials and in-depth conversations.

We dive into the nurturing environments of HBCUs like Florida A&M University and North Carolina A&T State University, where students gain invaluable mentorship and develop critical skills in research, statistics, and data analysis. Drs. Marybeth Gassman and Levon T. Esters join us to discuss her journey in supporting HBCUs through the MSI Elevate program and her pivotal role as a mentor and advocate for minority-serving institutions. Together, we explore the generational legacy of HBCU attendance and the profound impact of these institutions on personal and professional growth.

We also highlight the broader community impacts of HBCUs as anchor institutions, focusing on their roles in economic development, community support, and educational outreach. From agriculture and extension systems to the vital philanthropy efforts led by figures like Mackenzie Scott, HBCUs are making a lasting difference. Finally, we turn our attention to the future, emphasizing the rise of Black women in leadership roles within HBCUs and the importance of continued support and equity-driven initiatives. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of the lasting influence of HBCUs and the collective efforts needed to sustain their legacy.

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