Send us a text

How does a spirited girl from Nigeria rise to become a leading voice in global sustainability and marketing? Meet Nnenna Hemeson, the Global Director of Sustainability, Brand, and Marketing at NatPower, who shares a compelling narrative of resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion. Listen as Nnenna recounts her early days, navigating the expectations of a traditional African household while fostering a thirst for creativity and innovation. Her journey underscores the balance of standing up for one's beliefs and the profound impact of a dedicated mind on global industries.

Discover the powerful tension between creative passions and parental expectations as Nnenna details her path from excelling in pharmaceutical analysis to leading marketing campaigns for top-tier clients. Her story offers a masterclass in negotiation, the value of education, and the essence of understanding customer needs. From selling hats as a young entrepreneur to driving major marketing initiatives, Nnenna's experiences provide a blueprint for leveraging one's talents while navigating career obstacles.

Join us for an insightful exploration of sustainable marketing and the role it plays in climate action. Nnenna reveals the innovative projects she's spearheading in renewable energy and shares actionable advice on promoting sustainable behaviour. Through her platform, HHS, she empowers the younger generation to advocate for environmental responsibility. This episode is packed with personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability, marketing, or simply seeking inspiration from a trailblazing leader.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

What if your heritage could be the key to unlocking your potential? Our latest episode of the Black Rise Podcast features the incredible Michelle Gayle, a beacon of resilience and achievement. Michelle opens up about her upbringing in Northwest London with her Caribbean parents, sharing how her father's empowering stories of their Maroon ancestry instilled a profound belief in resilience and success. Discover how these narratives of resistance against colonisers have become a cornerstone in Michelle's life, shaping her journey as a musician, actress, and changemaker.

Imagine being chosen to fight simply because you exude strength. Michelle recounts her tumultuous school years where conflict seemed inevitable, until a transformative moment with her headmistress, Mrs. Best. This episode highlights the pivotal role of positive influences and the nurturing environment of a stage school that fostered Michelle’s talents. From a school singer to landing a role in “Grange Hill,” Michelle’s story is a testament to the power of dedicated educators and a strong support system in overcoming challenges and unlocking potential.

Finally, we delve into Michelle's disciplined path to success and her journey of financial independence at 14. By seizing opportunities with creativity and empowerment, Michelle navigates the entertainment industry’s systemic barriers with resilience and adaptability. We also explore the broader importance of understanding African history beyond narratives of enslavement and the necessity of allies in elevating marginalised voices. Join us for an episode that promises elevation, motivation, and empowerment, as we celebrate collective growth and the impact of rising together.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

Can the experiences of growing up in a mixed heritage family shape your path to corporate success? Today, we uncover the transformative journey of Kate Philpot, Vice President of Global Sales Enablement at Getty Images. Kate dives deep into her Ghanaian and Irish roots, offering a personal lens on the complexities of navigating childhood in a predominantly white society during the 60s and 70s. Her story sheds light on how her family's emphasis on education and resilience forged not only her path but also the contrasting paths of her brother, who turned to entrepreneurship due to a strong mistrust of authority.

As we journey through Kate's career, we discuss her pivot from HR to sales, underscoring the value of transferable skills and the pivotal role of robust training programs. Kate shares candid anecdotes about working in male-dominated environments, emphasising the importance of confidence and resilience. We also tackle the broader challenges of achieving true diversity in corporate settings and the indispensable role of Employee Resource Groups in fostering community and support for minority employees. Kate’s insights provide a roadmap for young Black professionals aiming to break barriers in the corporate world.

Additionally, we reflect on the persistent socio-economic hurdles that Black professionals face, particularly the need to be exceptionally outstanding to reach the same levels as their white counterparts. The episode concludes with an empowering message: by normalising excellence among Black professionals, we pave the way for future generations. Join us as we inspire listeners to stay connected, strive for excellence, and create impactful change within their communities.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered how to transform your unique skills into a powerful asset for your career? Join us in this inspirational episode of the Black Rise podcast as we sit down with Mahari Hay, a seasoned leader in the financial services sector and Director in the Innovation and Transformation team at Lloyds Bank Group. Mahari's journey from Kingston, Jamaica to a successful career in the UK is nothing short of remarkable, and he shares his insights on leveraging diverse abilities to propel your professional journey.

From humble beginnings to leadership, Mahari's story is a testament to the power of cultural heritage, community support, and staying true to one’s roots. Listen as we discuss the impact of his cultural background and the unwavering support of his mother, which played a crucial role in his rise. Mahari's experiences, from creative design to finance, offer valuable lessons on the importance of adaptability and the strength found in a supportive network.

We also shine a light on the financial struggles faced by immigrant families and how resilience and community can overcome these challenges. Discover Mahari’s ascent from a call centre employee to a director, illustrating the significance of internal mobility and personal growth in large organisations. The episode wraps up with a powerful discussion on empowering Black communities through finance and the incredible work of the BOLD network, which supports Black professionals in achieving their dreams. Mahari’s story is an inspiring reminder of the importance of collaboration, authenticity, and continuous growth.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

What if a chance encounter on Craigslist could redefine your entire career? Join us on the Black Rise Podcast as we chat with Dominick Kennerson, Senior Vice President of Health Tech at HSBC Innovation Banking, whose remarkable journey from El Paso, Texas, to the heights of health tech leadership is nothing short of inspiring. Born into a military family and raised in the vibrant yet challenging streets of Washington DC, Dominick's story is a testament to resilience and the power of seizing unexpected opportunities.

Throughout this episode, Dominick opens up about the crucial role of personal growth, education, and discipline in his success. From navigating diverse socio-economic backgrounds to excelling in rigorous academic environments, Dominick shares the pivotal moments that shaped his path. He recounts his educational odyssey, from battling algebraic physics to discovering a passion for healthcare business during his Master's in Health Administration. His experiences in hospital management and health tech startups reveal the emotional weight and empathetic challenges of the medical field, underscoring the importance of maintaining a human connection in healthcare.

But Dominick's journey doesn't stop there. We explore his move to London, where he faced the challenges of scaling up UK healthcare startups amidst the limitations of the venture capital trust system. His insights on creative fundraising and the future of health tech innovation are invaluable. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of education and discipline. Tune in to hear Dominick's incredible story and gain insights that could inspire your own path to success.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

What if you could transform your business by mastering customer retention and leveraging cutting-edge technology? Our guest, Marie Feliho, Director of Customer Experience at Virgin Media O2, reveals how she navigated her journey from Benin to a thriving career in marketing and technology. We discuss the vital importance of knowing your best customers and how technology can revolutionise their experiences. Marie’s story is not just about professional success but also showcases the power of diversity in driving business growth and innovation.

Inspired by a fierce female character from an American TV series, Marie’s career journey is nothing short of captivating. From small-town Besançon to the bustling streets of Lyon and Paris, Marie’s transition to England marks a pivotal chapter filled with challenges and triumphs, including battles with discrimination during job interviews. She offers a unique perspective on cultural differences between France and England, shedding light on media representation and societal acceptance, and providing a broader context on racial and ethnic barriers.

We also explore crucial strategies for aligning departmental goals to create a seamless customer experience. Marie emphasises breaking down organisational silos and unifying data insights across departments to enhance customer journeys. We dive into the critical need for adaptability in this fast-paced industry, illustrated by BlackBerry’s downfall. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is a treasure trove of advice on data literacy in marketing, securing budgets, and running low-cost experiments to drive transformative change in your business. Join us for an episode brimming with valuable lessons and inspiring stories!

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered about the grit it takes to rise from humble beginnings and make a mark in the elite world of business? Franklin's story is one of relentless ambition and the pursuit of knowledge, a tale shared in the company of Franklin Asante. This episode pulls back the curtain on the myths of prestigious banking and celebrates the success of Black talent in the corporate climb, all while fostering inclusivity and diversity in spaces where it's needed most.

Every chapter of his journey, from the influence of his Ghanaian grandmother's wisdom to the power of Toastmasters in honing communication skills, has been a stepping stone. Franklin, a private banker whose passion for authorship is as strong as his commitment to financial inclusivity, joins the conversation, adding depth to our exploration of resilience and the transformative power of storytelling. Together, we also dissect the evolving face of banking, where once rigid walls are making way for a rich tapestry of backgrounds and cultures.

But what does it truly take to ascend the rungs of success? The answers lie not in a universal blueprint but in cultivating personal strategies rooted in resilience, problem-solving, and a bulletproof work ethic. His journey to authoring "The Money Ladder" is a testament to building a personal brand that stands the test of time, offering listeners a roadmap for financial literacy and savvy investment strategies. Join us for an honest dialogue that will leave you inspired to navigate your own path to triumph, armed with the insights of those who've already paved the way.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

From the roots of ambition instilled by her parents to the blooming success of her seven-figure tech enterprise, Oyin Adebayo's story is one of unyielding determination and strategic brilliance. Join us, as we engage with Oyin in an enlightening conversation on how her favoured status as the first child came with towering expectations that she transformed into a driving force for her entrepreneurial journey. Get ready to be inspired by Oyin's story, which underlines the pivotal influence of early family dynamics in forging a trailblazing path in the business realm.

The cultural tapestry of Oyin Adebayo's life is rich and varied, stretching from the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria to the dynamic bustle of the UK. This episode takes you on a journey of adaptation and growth, as Oyin contrasts the educational and cultural differences between these two worlds. Her activism in her youth blossomed into a passion for economics and management, and the seeds of community service planted during her university years have grown into initiatives that champion women and technology. Listen as Oyin shares her experiences of nurturing dreams in unfamiliar soil and the love for one's homeland that transcends borders.

This conversation is more than just a tale of personal success; it's a blueprint for empowering a million women in tech by 2030. We unravel the intricacies of manoeuvring through governmental contract landscapes and the strategies that turn bureaucratic mazes into runways for policy and societal transformation. Oyin provides a glimpse into an upcoming tech platform promising to revolutionise the integration of learning, rewards, and job opportunities. Her insight is a lighthouse for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the complex waters of tech and business, illuminating the path to not only financial prosperity but meaningful societal impact as well.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

Sometimes, the realisation hits you: time is more valuable than money. That epiphany became a cornerstone of our latest conversation on the Black Rise podcast, as we welcomed Jerran Whyte from Belvedere Wealth Management to share his insights on building wealth and financial independence. Together, we unpacked the importance of a robust asset portfolio and financial literacy, especially when starting without the advantage of inherited wealth. This episode is more than just about numbers; it's a beacon of motivation for those striving to secure a sustainable lifestyle and reshape the narrative of Black success in business.

Jerran Whyte's story, rooted in his Jamaican heritage and a household brimming with ambition, is a testament to the transformative power of family values. This episode peels back the layers of Jerran's upbringing, from the influence of his mother's financial wisdom to his father's entrepreneurial zest, to reveal the driving forces behind his business acumen. We delve into how a solid Christian foundation and the competitive spirit nurtured among three brothers have sculpted Jerran into the change-maker he is today—a narrative that serves as a blueprint for cultivating a determined and successful mindset.

Wrapping up our empowering dialogue, we address the elephant in the room—why wealth management is often misunderstood as a service reserved for the elite. By shedding light on the legacies of cultural icons like Jay-Z and Beyoncé, we underscore the shift from wealth accumulation to legacy building. We close the chapter with a discussion on the critical role of financial literacy and the responsibility of creating a legacy that extends beyond personal wealth to encompass community upliftment and generational empowerment. Join us on this enlightening journey and witness how personal experiences interweave with the mission of transforming taxpayers into wealth creators, one powerful episode at a time.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more

Send us a text

From overcoming homelessness to embracing the power of property investment, my journey has been a testament to the resilience and determination that defines success. In this candid conversation with property investment expert Sarah Stephen, we peel back the layers of wealth disparity within the Black community and showcase the transformative potential of strategic partnerships. Sarah brings her inspiring narrative to the table, demonstrating how a foundation of family support and strategic navigation can lead to empowerment and financial independence.

Our dialogue traverses from the early sparks of a business mindset in my youth, through the challenges that honed my adaptability, to the strategic realm of property investment and co-investing. Alongside my stories, Sarah shares her expertise, offering an insider's perspective on navigating the real estate industry as a woman of color. We dissect misconceptions around property investment, discuss the benefits of commercial real estate, and highlight how co-investing can help break down financial barriers.

Wrapping up this empowering episode, we reflect on the broader implications of financial literacy and the role of community in wealth building. The encouraging narrative of the Reaboof Property Group exemplifies the power of collective effort, while our discussion underlines the importance of starting small and committing to financial education. As you join us on this enlightening journey through Black Rise, remember our collective potential to create meaningful change and redefine the future with excellence and impact. Sarah's profound insights are a call to action—an invitation to rise together and embrace the opportunities before us.

Support the show

Experience Business Differently

Black Rise is not just a podcast but an extension of our Business platform. We are on a mission to bridge the gap between businesses and the immense potential of Black talent. We provide a dynamic platform where businesses and individuals can connect, collaborate, and prosper with Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and black-owned companies. We strive to showcase the value, creativity, and innovation that Black talent brings to the table, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, diversity, and mutual success.

Register now for early access and join a community of trailblazers. Get exclusive features, connect with like-minded individuals, and elevate your journey with Black Rise. Don't miss out—click the link below to secure your spot!

Click here to find out more