In the latest episode of Born To Be Dope, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Carlena Davis, the founder of Spillin' The Sweet Tea, to discuss her journey from a small-town girl in North Carolina to a prominent food content creator. With a rich background in Southern cooking and an inspiring story of resilience, Carlena shares how she turned her childhood experiences and love for food into a thriving business, all while navigating the challenges of social media.

The Roots of a Culinary Passion  

Carlena Davis grew up in Kingston, North Carolina, where her parents owned a funeral home. This unique upbringing taught her the importance of hard work, empathy, and community. After school, she would help her mother cook, learning valuable skills in the kitchen. "Food has been a big part of my life...everything is centered around food," Carlena recalls, highlighting how family gatherings and church events revolved around cooking and sharing meals.

The Birth of Spillin' The Sweet Tea  

In 2017, Carlena started her food blog, Spillin' The Sweet Tea, as a way to document her mother’s recipes. "I started studying her in the kitchen...because I knew a day would come when she wouldn't remember how to make these dishes," she explains. The blog began as a passion project but transformed into something more significant during the pandemic. In 2020, she shifted her focus to creating video content on TikTok, capturing the attention of food lovers everywhere.

Navigating Social Media  

Carlena's journey on TikTok began with simple cooking videos. Initially, she faced challenges like negative comments and misunderstandings about her cooking methods. "I had made some smoked turkey wings and people were quick to criticize. But it was those comments that actually helped me grow my following," she notes. Rather than being discouraged, Carlena embraced the feedback, using it as motivation to connect with her audience and share authentic cooking experiences.

The Viral Moment  

A turning point for Carlena came when she recreated a beloved dish from her hometown called a "pig and a pup" during the pandemic. This copycat recipe went viral, leading to an interview with a local news station. "I was just like, I might have something here," she reflects. This moment solidified her status as a content creator and opened doors to new opportunities in the culinary world.

Lessons Learned and Future Goals  

Throughout her journey, Carlena has learned the importance of perseverance and authenticity. She emphasizes that success does not require fame; rather, it stems from passion and hard work. "You don't have to be famous to be successful," she reminds listeners, encouraging aspiring creators to embrace their uniqueness.

Carlena Davis' journey from a small-town upbringing to a successful food content creator is a testament to the power of passion and resilience. By sharing her family's recipes and stories, she has built a community that values authenticity and creativity in cooking. Key takeaways include the importance of following your passion, embracing feedback, and staying true to yourself in the face of challenges. Carlena’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their unique talents into a thriving business.

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In this episode of the Born to Be Dope Show, host Ryan C. Greene engages in a heartfelt conversation with JoJo Crews, the host of the Prince of Pop Culture Podcast. JoJo shares his journey from aspiring musician to thriving media personality, offering insights and inspiration for anyone pursuing their passions against all odds.

The Early Years  

JoJo Crews recalls his childhood in Washington D.C., where his love for music began at a young age. Growing up on Saratoga Avenue, he found inspiration in the sounds of Whitney Houston and Salt-N-Pepa. Living across from the original BET Studios fueled his dreams of a future in entertainment. By the time he reached high school, JoJo had his heart set on becoming an artist, believing that he was destined for a career in music.

The Pursuit of Music  

JoJo actively chased his dreams throughout high school, participating in plays and honing his craft as a singer. He recalls vividly his audition experiences for shows like American Idol, where he camped out overnight to showcase his talent. Despite his passion, reality set in when he realized that pursuing a career in music would require more than just talent; it needed stability. This led him to seek jobs that would pay the bills, pushing his dreams to the back burner.

Life Changes and Responsibilities  

When JoJo became a parent, his priorities shifted dramatically. Taking on the role of a father was a turning point that forced him to focus on providing for his family. He worked various jobs, including a long tenure at a non-profit organization, where he found stability but felt lost in terms of his true calling. JoJo's journey reflects the struggle many face when balancing dreams and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of persistence even when life gets complicated.

A Turning Point  

The loss of his mother in 2013 was a profound moment that altered JoJo's life trajectory. This tragedy served as a catalyst for change, prompting him to seek outlets for his grief. He started a blog, which unexpectedly opened doors to opportunities in the media industry, including covering red carpet events. JoJo’s story illustrates how adversity can lead to new paths and reignite passions that had been sidelined.

Building a Career in Media  

Through his blog and connections made along the way, JoJo Crews transitioned from aspiring artist to a respected media figure. His experiences in the entertainment industry, combined with his natural charisma, allowed him to carve out a niche for himself. JoJo emphasizes the importance of networking and staying true to oneself in the journey toward success.

JoJo Crews' journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of pursuing one’s passions despite setbacks. Whether it’s through the loss of a loved one or the challenges of adulthood, JoJo’s story inspires others to keep pushing forward. The key takeaways from his experience are clear: embrace your unique journey, stay connected to your passions, and never underestimate the impact of your story on others.

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In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, understanding and protecting your intellectual property (IP) is crucial for success. In a recent episode of the Born to Be Dope podcast, host Ryan C. Green spoke with attorney Karin Coger about the significance of IP and how entrepreneurs can safeguard their unique creations.

Understanding Intellectual Property: Intellectual property encompasses various forms of creation that individuals or businesses produce. Karin Coger breaks it down simply: trademarks protect your brand and logo, copyrights safeguard your content, and patents cover your inventions. For instance, when you think of McDonald's, both the name and its iconic golden arches are trademarked elements that protect the brand's identity. Similarly, copyrights apply to everything from written content to videos and even choreography, ensuring that creators retain rights over their work.

Identifying Your Intellectual Property: Many entrepreneurs are unaware of the intellectual property they already possess. Karin emphasizes the importance of identifying all aspects of your work that can be protected. This includes proprietary systems, teaching materials, and even online content. For example, if you’ve written a book or developed a unique training module, those can be protected under copyright law. Failing to secure these rights can lead to others using your work without permission, which is a risk no entrepreneur should take.

Monetizing Your Creativity: Karin outlines a three-step framework for coaches and consultants to turn their expertise into a lucrative venture. The first step is to identify your IP, as discussed. After identifying your valuable assets, the next steps involve protecting and monetizing them. This could mean filing for trademarks on your brand and logo or securing copyrights for your digital content. For instance, if you’re a TikTok creator, while you can’t copyright every single video, you should protect your brand signature and any catchphrases or unique content that become associated with you.

Navigating the Viral Landscape: In today’s digital age, many creators aspire to go viral without a clear plan for protecting their content. Karin highlights the example of the "Hock Tuah Girl" phenomenon, where a spontaneous catchphrase became wildly popular. Creators like her can still file for trademark registration even after their content has gone viral, as long as they can prove they were the first to use the phrase in commerce. This illustrates the importance of being proactive about IP, especially in an era where trends can change overnight.

Protecting your intellectual property is not just about safeguarding your creations; it’s about ensuring the longevity and success of your business. By understanding what constitutes IP, identifying your own assets, and taking steps to protect and monetize them, you can set yourself up for success in your entrepreneurial journey. Key takeaways include the importance of trademarks and copyrights, the necessity of identifying all forms of IP, and the proactive measures creators should take to protect their work in a viral-driven world.

Get Karin’s Trademark Tracking Assistant GPT, Regina: https://reginatmda.karincogeresg.co 

Use Code: BORNTOBEDOPE to get free access as long as you write a review once you’ve used the tool. 

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In the rapidly evolving world of public speaking, standing out is more crucial than ever. In a recent episode of the "Born to be Dope" podcast, Brian J. Olds, the founder of Black Speakers Network, shared valuable insights on how speakers can future-proof their careers by embracing authenticity and leveraging modern technology. This blog post distills those insights into actionable strategies for aspiring and established speakers alike.

Understanding Your Unique Value Proposition: One of the central themes discussed in the podcast is the importance of authenticity in the speaking industry. Brian emphasizes that many speakers fall into the trap of imitating successful figures instead of discovering their unique voice. He recalls his own journey, noting that he initially felt pressured to conform to a mold, wearing suits and adopting the speaking styles of established speakers. However, he learned that true success comes from embracing one’s individuality and allowing personal experiences to shape one’s narrative.

Finding Your Speaker Sweet Spot: Brian introduced a powerful concept known as the "speaker sweet spot," which is the intersection of passion, expertise, and market demand. He explains this using a Venn diagram analogy, where:
- Passion represents what lights you up inside.
- Expertise captures your life experiences and knowledge.
- Market Demand encompasses what people are willing to pay for and what the world needs.
By focusing on this intersection, speakers can develop a message that not only resonates with their audience but also generates income.

The Importance of Market Demand: A significant takeaway from the podcast is the need for speakers to understand market demand. Brian pointed out that many aspiring speakers struggle to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. He advises that finding the right niche is essential. According to him, it’s not enough to be passionate or knowledgeable; there must be a genuine demand for what you offer. Testing the market through small experiments—like workshops or webinars—can provide insight into what resonates with potential audiences.

Overcoming the Fear of Failure: Brian also addressed a common psychological barrier among entrepreneurs: the fear of failure. He argues that many individuals fear public failure more than failure itself. This fear can stifle creativity and innovation. He encourages speakers to embrace failure as part of the learning process. For instance, if a workshop doesn’t attract a large audience, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s an opportunity to learn rather than a reflection of one’s worth.

Leveraging Technology: The podcast highlights how technology can aid speakers in their journey. Platforms like Instagram now offer features such as A/B testing, allowing users to experiment with different content to see what works best. Brian emphasizes the importance of utilizing these tools to refine one’s approach and better understand audience preferences.

Brian J. Olds’ insights provide a roadmap for speakers looking to navigate the complexities of the industry. By embracing authenticity, understanding market demand, and leveraging technology, speakers can not only future-proof their careers but also create a lasting impact. The key takeaways from this discussion are:
1. Embrace your unique voice and experiences.
2. Identify your "speaker sweet spot" by finding the intersection of passion, expertise, and market demand.
3. View setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures.
4. Utilize technology to test ideas and refine your approach.

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In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, one vital skill often overlooked is the ability to maintain focus. In the latest episode of the Born to Be Dope Show, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Paul Burrow, known as Paul the Connector. Together, they delve into the importance of focus and clarity in business and how these elements can drive success.

The Roots of Entrepreneurship  

Paul shares his entrepreneurial journey, which began in his childhood surrounded by family businesses, including a flower shop and a beauty salon. This early exposure instilled in him the essence of entrepreneurship. He later pursued graphic design and marketing, ultimately leading him to establish his own business dedicated to helping other entrepreneurs. This background emphasizes the importance of understanding the foundations of business, which is essential for anyone looking to succeed in today's competitive market.

Helping Others Succeed  

Paul's business focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in building sustainable communities through their ventures. He believes that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for creating opportunities not just for oneself but for others as well. This philosophy aligns with his commitment to helping business owners achieve financial independence and realize their dreams. He explains that the goal of any entrepreneur should be to create pathways for others to follow, fostering a culture of support and growth.

The Importance of a Strong Back Office  

In discussing the pitfalls many entrepreneurs face, Paul highlights the necessity of having a robust back-office system. He notes that having a great product or service isn't enough; businesses need effective systems in place to manage customers and operations efficiently. Paul emphasizes the value of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, which help businesses streamline processes and maintain organized communication with clients. He recommends resources like My Automation Suite for entrepreneurs seeking to improve their operational efficiency.

Focus and Clarity Transformation System (FACTS)  

To help entrepreneurs stay on track, Paul introduces his Focus and Clarity Transformation System (FACTS). He explains that sustained focus on specific tasks leads to better results. Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of distraction and often abandon strategies prematurely, which hinders their growth. By adopting FACTS, entrepreneurs can maintain clarity about their objectives and create a structured plan to achieve them.

Valuing Your Services  

A recurring theme in their conversation is the challenge of pricing services appropriately. Paul advises entrepreneurs to understand their worth and the value they bring to clients. He suggests conducting market research to gauge pricing trends while ensuring that the services offered provide significant value to customers. This approach not only justifies higher prices but also fosters better client relationships.

Networking: Building Relationships Over Transactions  

Paul, known as Paul the Connector, shares insights on the power of networking. He believes that building strong relationships in business is more crucial than merely focusing on profits. By prioritizing connections and fostering deep relationships, entrepreneurs can create transformative experiences for their clients and partners. This approach can lead to opportunities that may not be accessible through financial means alone.

In this enlightening discussion, Paul the Connector offers valuable insights into the importance of focus, clarity, and relationships in entrepreneurship. By implementing effective systems, valuing services appropriately, and prioritizing connections over transactions, entrepreneurs can create a sustainable path to success. Key takeaways from this episode include the significance of maintaining focus on specific business goals, the need for robust back-office systems, and the value of building meaningful relationships within the business community.

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In the latest episode of the Born to Be Dope podcast, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Mike Powell, a leader in mentoring and personal development, to discuss his transformative journey in leadership through the sport of golf. With over 20 years of experience through his nonprofit, Lifting As We Climb, Mike shares how he is now merging effective leadership training with the skills and community found in golf.

1. The Foundation of Giving Back  

Mike Powell co-founded Lifting As We Climb in 2003, a mentoring program aimed at empowering young people through sports. By leveraging sports as a platform, they reached large numbers of kids and emphasized the importance of academic and social development alongside athletic prowess. Mike explained, "We wanted to impact kids in the classroom, on the field, and in life." This holistic approach has led many participants to achieve significant milestones, including scholarships and professional opportunities.

2. Evolving the Message  

Over the years, Mike's focus has evolved while maintaining the core message of helping individuals become more productive. He emphasized that while the methods and venues for delivering this message have changed, the intent has remained constant. Mike noted, "The way that we're delivering it has grown; I still do goal-setting workshops, but now it's more about working with clients internally rather than public sessions."

3. Navigating Change in Leadership  

The discussion also touched on the challenges of public perception in the age of social media. Mike highlighted that just because something is not visible online doesn't mean it isn't happening. He said, "You can't judge success just by what you see someone post. Many entrepreneurs are hard at work behind the scenes, and sometimes they go quiet to focus on their craft."

4. The Rise of Fairways to Success  

As Mike’s personal journey evolved, particularly through the lens of fatherhood and his daughter's involvement in golf, a new idea emerged—Fairways to Success. Set to launch in 2026, this program aims to teach leadership skills through golf. Drawing parallels between the sport and leadership, Mike aims to create an immersive experience that combines learning to play golf with valuable leadership lessons. He described the excitement, saying, "Golf is hot right now; it’s not the nerdy sport it used to be. It’s becoming a community where young professionals gather."

5. Key Lessons from Golf  

Mike outlines several key lessons from the game of golf that translate into valuable leadership skills:

   - What's in Your Bag? Just as golfers must know their clubs, leaders must understand their strengths and weaknesses. Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.

   - Playing the Lie: Adaptability is key in golf as conditions change. Similarly, leaders must be able to navigate varying situations and challenges effectively.

   - Building Community: Golf fosters connections and maturity among players, providing a unique opportunity for networking and personal development.

Conclusion:  

Mike Powell’s journey exemplifies the power of adaptability and the importance of mentorship. By combining his experience in leadership with the lessons learned from golf, he is paving the way for future leaders through the Fairways to Success program. As he prepares to launch this initiative, his story reminds us that growth often comes from unexpected places, and the key to success lies in understanding our unique tools and how to use them. 

Key Takeaways:

- The importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership.

- Adapting to change and navigating new environments is essential for personal growth.

- Engaging with communities can provide invaluable networking opportunities and shared learning experiences.

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Join host Ryan C. Greene as he sits down with Marcellus "Bassman" Shepard, a multi-talented voice actor, syndicated broadcaster, pit master, and father, on the Born To Be Dope podcast. In this captivating episode, Marcellus shares his inspiring journey from his early aspirations as a news broadcaster at Morgan State University to becoming a renowned voice in the entertainment industry. Discover how Marcellus navigated the competitive world of radio and voice acting, securing roles in commercials, films, and his own nationally syndicated show, "Cool Jazz Countdown." Along the way, Marcellus and Ryan delve into the influence of jazz on hip hop, the importance of meaningful messages in music, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Get ready to be motivated as Marcellus encourages listeners to master their craft, embrace their unique talents, and be unapologetically great in their pursuits.

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00:00 Ryan C. Green's show helps you thrive.
04:26 Struggled with math, pursued broadcasting instead.
09:14 Discussing journey to national syndication, proving critics wrong.
12:24 Legacy hosts dominate public radio airtime slots.
13:13 Pitching show, research, and success in radio.
18:39 Using God-given name, adopted radio alias.
20:50 Discovered professional voice actors and sought training.
24:42 Coaching is essential for successful voiceover work.
27:32 Selected for gig after audition; live directed session.
31:11 Learning from background acting shaped my career.
33:57 Couldn't miss work, family on set is special.
36:12 Opportunity for creators to showcase work.
42:21 Casting for Born to Be Dope visual mixtape.
44:18 Celebrating hip hop's unapologetic and greater influence.
49:00 Interested in jazz, open to learning more.
52:01 Stopped watching award shows and commercial radio.
55:18 Kendrick Lamar's song speaks to finding strength.
57:21 Syndicated jazz show and conversations now available.

In Episode 7 of Ryan C. Greene's BORN TO BE DOPE podcast, host Ryan C. Greene sits down with branding strategist Tiffany Bethea for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Tiffany shares her journey of transitioning from faith-based nonprofit marketing to coaching women on monetizing their talents, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step and overcoming fear. Supporting her message with personal anecdotes and industry know-how, Tiffany discusses the profound impact of hip-hop culture, the role of AI in business, and the significance of community in entrepreneurship. The episode is packed with valuable advice on finding purpose, solving problems, and building an authentic brand. Don't miss the musical interlude featuring uplifting lyrics about dreaming big, as well as details on the upcoming "born to be dope" visual mixtape and live summit. Join the conversation and be inspired to master, magnify, and monetize your expertise!

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00:00 Master, magnify, monetize expertise, celebrate being you.
05:48 Jumped in to fix parents' church marketing.
07:18 Received calls from women, pastors, and leaders.
10:27 Solving problems drives product and service sales.
13:56 Identifying target audience, not everyone is target.
18:20 Transitioning focus to visual content for audience.
20:43 Trusting my gift to serve others.
25:35 Educate yourself about AI, it's beneficial.
28:01 Get Munch turns long video into short.
31:21 New baby, community, successful return to work.
34:43 Entrepreneurship can be lonely, seeking community.
36:12 Author Media Camp: Grow your book's impact.
40:24 Grew up with hip hop, inspiring transformation.
43:58 Seize the moment, face fear, it's now.
47:59 Understanding hip hop's origins is crucial.
49:51 Overcome analysis paralysis and take first step.

In the latest episode of Ryan C. Greene's BORN TO BE DOPE!, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Dr. Donald E. Grant Jr., an esteemed leader in the fields of nonprofit, academia, and the private sector. We dove into the critical need for ongoing professional development at the highest levels of leadership, discussing how executive coaching can create environments ripe with creativity and profitability. Dr. Grant and I also explored the essential value of diversity in leadership, sharing insights on how varied perspectives can enrich and strengthen leadership dynamics. Our conversation was not just about the mechanics of leadership but also about the profound impact of embracing diverse backgrounds and ideas to foster more dynamic and effective leadership environments.

Our dialogue took a deeper dive as we tackled the complex relationship between race, mental health, and systemic racism, with Dr. Grant bringing his expert perspective from his work in psychology through his company, Mindful Training Solutions. We confronted the stark realities faced by black and brown boys in foster care and the broader implications of systemic racism on the psychological well-being of the black community. This episode was a powerful mixture of serious discussion, empowerment, and humor, reflecting our shared experiences. We navigated through the nuances of the current political landscape, the colonization of hip hop culture, and the evolving requirements of leadership in a diversifying society. This conversation wasn't just an episode; it was a journey that highlighted the importance of challenging the status quo and the power of our voices in creating a more inclusive, understanding, and empowering future.

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00:00 From biology to psychology, teaching, and systems.
08:04 White replacement theory fuels white superiority ideology.
15:04 Example of white supremacy in healthcare outcomes.
20:28 Studied mental health needs of black men.
24:36 Embracing personal identity and overcoming challenges as author.
28:54 White supremacy blinded people fueling US Capitol events.
33:05 Six-week author media camp boosts book's reach.
39:54 Harvard reflects America; leader faced challenges.
42:36 Diversifying c-suite means fewer seats for whites.
50:21 Executive coaching helps improve productivity and success.
53:14 Media camp helps authors build thriving platforms.
59:15 Discussion on mental health and hip hop.
01:08:16 Mentor reignited civil rights, shaped personal identity.
01:11:24 Hip hop represents diversity and choice in blackness.
01:14:41 Overcoming obstacles to achieve dreams and success.

In this week’s episode of Ryan C. Greene's BORN TO BE DOPE! we have a truly inspiring guest joining us. It's the one and only Tracey Lee, a talented MC who has experienced the highs and lows of the music industry. In this episode, Tracey takes us on a journey through his life and music career, sharing personal stories and reflections that will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned his purpose or felt alone in his pursuit of his dreams.

Tracey opens up about his early influences in hip-hop, crediting LL Cool J as the first rap superstar and even a superhero-like figure. While also sharing the impact of other legendary MCs like Kool G Rap, Rakim, KRS One, Chuck D, Big Daddy Kane, Ice Cube and Scarface. Then we get into his new album “Different” and the motivation behind it.

During our conversation, Tracey Lee reveals a fascinating connection to Puff (yes, that Puff), and speaks on his involvement with some influential figures in the music industry. 

We also explore the deeper themes that Tracey Lee explores in his music. He opens up about his faith and spirituality, and how questioning his purpose and navigating the effects of isolation changed his perspective on the world and his family. We hear about his resilience and determination to continue pursuing his gift from God, even when faced with adversity.

Join us as Tracey Lee takes us on an unforgettable journey filled with passion, self-discovery, and the unbreakable spirit of a true artist. This is an episode you don't want to miss, as we dive into the heart and soul of an extraordinary individual who has defied the odds and continues to shape the hip-hop culture we know and love. 

#BornToBeDope #Different #RyanCGreene #TraceyLee #HipHop50 #DifferentIsDope

Get Tracey Lee’s new album DIFFERENT exclusively at www.traceyleemusic.com 

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00:01:37 Isolated, soul searching, new perspective, moving forward.
00:05:42 LL Cool J, rap superstar, influenced me.
00:08:56 Failed high school deals led to sports broadcasting.
00:10:07 Puff Daddy, Mark Pitts, D Dot signed deal producing The Theme.
00:15:37 Daddy transforms, supports, guides, and loves unconditionally.
00:17:04 Record industry favors relationships over individual artists.
00:19:46 Proud of hip hop culture recognition, but negatives arise from money and generational shifts.
00:24:41 Successful chart run, collaborations with Notorious BIG and Busta Rhymes, but limited promotion potential due to politics.
00:26:35 Second album funded, featuring Kanye West, Korrupt, Buckshot.
00:30:11 Confusion about collaboration with Big on record.
00:34:05 People noticed me and spread the word.
00:38:36 Faith-based person questions purpose, seeks acknowledgement.
00:40:57 Receiving unexpected checks helped pursue law school.
00:43:54 Excitement for new album and success goals.