GRINDSET Podcast

In this episode of Grindset, hosts Dana James Mwangi and Williams Brack interview Edward Bogard, founder of SoGiv, the world's first nonprofit shoe design company. Edward shares his inspiring journey from a high school artist to a professional shoe designer, combining his passions for footwear and philanthropy. Discover how SoGiv creates unique custom shoes for nonprofits, with 100% of profits going to charity, and the impact this has had on organizations like the Mid-South Food Bank and Stax Music Academy. Edward's story exemplifies creativity, social entrepreneurship, and the power of giving back.

In this heartfelt episode of Grindset, hosts Dana James Mwangi and Williams Brack sit down with Stacey Saed, the founder of Anastasis. Stacey shares her profound journey of moving 20 times, her inspiration from Steve Harvey, and how she turned personal pain into a business that helps others find comfort and home in new spaces. Anastasis offers much more than packing and organizing; it's about easing emotional transitions and creating inviting environments. Tune in to hear Stacey's powerful story and discover how her company stands out by addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of relocation.

In this engaging episode of Grindset, hosts Dana James Mwangi and Williams Brack sit down with Yo Clark, the passionate owner and practitioner at Any Body Yoga. Yo shares her inspiring journey into the world of yoga, detailing how she built a thriving community-focused studio from the ground up. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including serious injuries, Yo's dedication to yoga and her students shines through. Listeners will learn about the business side of running a yoga studio, the importance of community, and the holistic benefits of yoga. Tune in for a blend of entrepreneurship, wellness, and heartfelt stories that highlight the transformative power of yoga.

In this episode of Grindset, hosts Dana James Mwangi and Williams Brack dive into the inspiring entrepreneurial journey of Chasity Monroe, the owner of Pink Noir Beauty Supply and Cosmetics. Chasity shares her experiences, from her initial inspiration working at Procter & Gamble to overcoming challenges and redefining the beauty supply industry in Memphis. Listen as she discusses her dedication to customer service, community empowerment, and the importance of mental health in sustaining her thriving business. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the power of community support.

In this engaging episode of Grindset, Dana Pointer, CEO of PreserverPartners LLC., delves into the non-traditional approach of asset management her firm takes, serving high net-worth individuals and institutional clients. She highlights the challenges and triumphs of convincing traditional institutions to embrace innovative investment strategies, especially in a high interest rate environment. Dana also shares powerful insights on entrepreneurship, the significance of resilience in the face of rejection, and the importance of authenticity and diversity in the workplace.

This episode of Grindset explores the remarkable journey of Miss Betty Joyce "BJ" Chester-Tamayo, the vibrant owner of Alcenia's, a soul food restaurant that has become a cultural icon in Memphis, Tennessee. Celebrating 27 years of success, Miss BJ shares her personal and entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming tragedy to building a beloved community hub. Through a blend of love, resilience, and a commitment to exceptional customer service, Alcenia's not only serves delicious soul food but also acts as a testament to the power of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship.

In this insightful episode of Grindset, hosts Williams Brack and Dana James Mwangi engage with Chef Monique Williams, the co-owner and culinary mastermind behind the acclaimed restaurant Biscuits & Jams. This dialogue sheds light on the complexities and challenges of the food service industry, emphasizing the importance of quality, customer service, and team dynamics. Chef Mo shares her journey from family-inspired cooking to establishing a successful restaurant, revealing the significance of legacy, innovation, and communal effort in achieving business success. The conversation also explores Chef Mo's approach to menu creation, team morale, and navigating the industry as a Black female entrepreneur. Through her story, listeners gain valuable insights into the resilience, creativity, and leadership required to thrive in the competitive world of culinary entrepreneurship.

In this inspiring episode of Grindset with Dana and Brack, we delve into the remarkable journey of Mrs. Elaine Turner and her daughter Alana, the dynamic duo behind Heritage Tours and the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. Discover how they overcame legal challenges and societal barriers to establish the first African American tour company in Tennessee. We explore their unwavering commitment to preserving Memphis' rich African American history and culture, sharing insightful stories that reveal the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the African American community. Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Heritage Tours, a true testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the importance of knowing one's history. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a history enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons and an inspiring glimpse into a journey that intertwines heritage, activism, and business acumen.

In this captivating episode of Grindset, we witness a significant moment as the torch is passed from outgoing host Cynthia Daniels to incoming host Dana James Mwangi. Cynthia, a renowned event planner and a pillar in the Memphis community, shares her inspiring journey of uplifting local businesses and creating landmark events like the Memphis Black Restaurant Week. With over $2.5 million in economic impact, her initiatives have not only boosted local businesses but also brought the community together. Dana, poised to take over, reflects on the importance of these stories in shaping the entrepreneurial landscape of Memphis. This episode is a celebration of the city's vibrant business community and a testament to the power of networking, community involvement, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passion. Join us as we delve into the stories, lessons, and triumphs that define entrepreneurship in Memphis.

On this episode of Grindset, we are joined by Princeton James, founder of Princeton James Productions. He gives us insight into his career and journey and learn the ins and outs of owning and operating a production company.