Black to Business

Join us as we chat with some of today's top entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders within the Black community as they share tips and resources to help start and grow Black businesses.

286: How Black Founders Can Use Bartering to Stretch Resources & Build Stronger Businesses w/ Nicole Murphy 01/08/2026

286: How Black Founders Can Use Bartering to Stretch Resources & Build Stronger Businesses w/ Nicole Murphy If you have ever looked at your to do list and thought, “I know what my business needs next, I just do not have the money for it yet,” this episode will feel familiar. Stretching resources is not about cutting corners, it is about making smart decisions in a system where Black founders often have to do more with less. For many Black entrepreneurs, building a business means navigating limited access to capital, smaller margins for error, and the pressure to figure everything out on your own. That reality can slow growth and lead to burnout, even when the vision is clear. This episode speaks directly to that experience and introduces bartering as a practical way to keep moving forward without waiting on funding, grants, or permission. Joining us for this conversation is Nicole Murphy, founder of Barter Black®, a tech platform and community designed to help Black entrepreneurs exchange products and services using trade credits instead of cash. Nicole shares how the pandemic revealed just how fragile many Black businesses were when income stopped overnight, and why she believes collaboration and structure are essential to building stronger, more sustainable businesses. This conversation focuses on how bartering can be used intentionally to stretch resources, protect your value, and build support around your business in a way that actually works. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: What bartering really means in a business context and how it differs from favors How Black founders can use bartering to stretch limited resources without lowering their value How to identify skills, products, or resources you already have that others need What to clarify upfront so bartering stays professional and respectful How to protect your time and relationships when exchanging value How to think through when bartering makes sense and when paying is the better move Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/39644435

285: The Audacity to Trust Yourself in Business 01/01/2026

284: Before You Plan, Pause 12/25/2025

283: How to Stop Starting Over & Work With What You Already Have 12/18/2025

283: How to Stop Starting Over & Work With What You Already Have There is a quiet frustration a lot of entrepreneurs are carrying right now. The work is happening. Effort is being put in. Progress is not obvious yet. So the instinct becomes to scrap everything and start again. New idea. New offer. New strategy. New direction. In this solo episode of the Black to Business podcast, we are slowing that impulse down and telling the truth about what is really happening when you feel the need to start over. After speaking with more than 200 Black entrepreneurs on this podcast, one pattern shows up again and again. The founders who eventually find their footing are not constantly resetting. They stay long enough to learn. They adjust with intention instead of reacting out of pressure. This conversation is about resourcefulness, self-trust, and building forward instead of burning everything down when things feel uncomfortable. Inside this episode, we talk honestly about why starting over feels productive, how outside noise and urgency can cloud decision-making, and how to tell the difference between a thoughtful pivot and panicking too soon. This is not about forcing something that is clearly not working. This is about recognizing when you already have more than enough to move forward and learning how to work with it. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why starting over often feels like progress even when it keeps you stuck The real difference between pivoting with intention and reacting out of pressure How constant resets prevent you from gathering the information you actually need What it looks like to leverage your existing work, relationships, and systems Why trusting yourself is a business skill, not just a mindset How to strengthen what you already have instead of abandoning it too soon If you have been feeling the urge to scrap everything because things are moving slower than expected, this episode will help you pause, reassess, and move forward with more confidence. You do not need to start over to grow. Sometimes you need to stay. Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/39445920

282: Moving in Silence Is Not a Flex & Why Hiding Your Work Hurts Your Business 12/11/2025

281: How to Let Go of the Mindset That Held You Back This Year 12/04/2025

280: Grateful, But Not Done Yet 11/27/2025

279: How to Build an Online Community You Actually Own w/ D’Angelo Senat 11/20/2025

279: How to Build an Online Community You Actually Own w/ D’Angelo Senat Many Black entrepreneurs know what it feels like to consistently show up online, grow a following, build connection, and still feel like the space you are building on does not fully belong to you. The rules change, your reach shifts, and suddenly everything you worked for feels like it is sitting in someone else’s hands. This episode speaks to the founder who wants stability, ownership, and the freedom to build without worrying about algorithms or disappearing access. D’Angelo Senat joins us to break down what it takes to create an online community that is truly yours. He is the Founder and CEO of AllPeep, an open-source platform designed to help leaders own their data, their conversations, and their digital presence. His journey as an engineer and builder who has supported thousands of founders gives him a unique perspective on how ownership shapes the future of your business. He shares what real ownership looks like, why it matters for Black entrepreneurs, and how to create a space that grows with you. This conversation offers clarity for the entrepreneur who wants to strengthen their brand, deepen their community, and create a digital home that cannot be taken away. There is real power in ownership, and this episode walks you through how to claim it. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why building your community on rented platforms limits your growth and impact What it really means to “own” your community and how to start shifting your mindset Step-by-step actions to create a digital space that you control from day one How to keep your audience engaged and connected without relying on social media algorithms The power of data ownership and how it protects your brand and creative work How community ownership helps Black entrepreneurs build legacy, not just visibility Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/39105885

278: How to Keep Showing Up When Sales Feel Slow 11/13/2025

277: What Every Black Founder Should Know Before Raising Their First Venture Capital Round w/ James Norman 11/06/2025

277: What Every Black Founder Should Know Before Raising Their First Venture Capital Round w/ James Norman You’ve probably heard the phrase “raise capital to scale your business” more times than you can count. But when it comes to venture capital, most Black founders quickly realize that the rules, access, and exposure are not the same. The reality is that getting VC funding is not about how hard you work, it is about how strategically you prepare and how well you understand the game you are walking into. In this episode, we are breaking down what that really looks like with James Norman, Managing Partner at Black Operator Ventures and a 3x founder who has seen both sides of the table. James has built and led companies for nearly three decades and now invests in extraordinary Black founders who are building tech and tech-enabled businesses that change industries. During this conversation, James gives a real-world breakdown of what venture capital actually is, how to know if it is right for you, and what to have in place before you ever pitch an investor. He also shares what it means to be a Black founder in rooms that were not built for us, how to maintain your power dynamic during fundraising, and why the most successful founders focus less on chasing checks and more on building excellence. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: The real meaning of venture capital and how it differs from loans, grants, and bootstrapping How to determine if your business model and growth potential fit the VC path What VC readiness truly looks like before you start pitching Why your mindset and power dynamic matter just as much as your pitch deck The realities of being a solo founder, how to build the right support team, and what investors actually look for How to navigate life after funding, from scaling your team to keeping control of your vision Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/38928115

276: Now What? Turning Your Consistent Content Into Results During the Holiday Season 10/30/2025

275: What Creating Consistent Content Taught Me About My Audience (and Myself) 10/23/2025

275: What Creating Consistent Content Taught Me About My Audience (and Myself) If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the things, posting, planning, showing up, and still wondering if it’s working, this episode will give you real clarity. This week, Monique is pulling back the curtain on what publishing over 270 podcast episodes and sending weekly emails has taught her about showing up consistently. You’ll learn why content is not just about being seen, but about building something that people can come back to again and again. Content is how you: Learn who your audience really is Build long-term trust Clarify your message Guide people back to your offer, your site, or your platform Daily posts are not the requirement. A system that fits your life and business goals is what will help you stay consistent. In this episode, you’ll learn: How consistency revealed who Monique’s audience actually was Why posting daily is not necessary for growth or visibility What it means to guide your audience back to something you own How to stay consistent with content as a solo entrepreneur or small team A challenge to help you build a schedule you can stick to Bonus: Monique is hosting a live Quick Win Workshop on Wednesday, October 29. You’ll walk away with a 30-day content plan that fits your business even if you’re doing it solo. Sign up at (If you’re catching this after the live event, that link will direct you to replays or upcoming sessions.) Looking for a ready-to-go system? The 30 Days of Content in Hours Shortcut is now available at . It’s the same method Monique uses to plan content for the podcast, newsletter, and social platforms. Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/38751060

274: How to Use Content to Build Credibility 10/16/2025

273: The Power of Visibility & Consistent Content For Black Founders 10/09/2025

273: The Power of Visibility & Consistent Content For Black Founders Visibility can make or break your business. You can have the best product or service, but if people don’t see it, they can’t support it. This week’s episode of the Black to Business podcast dives into why visibility is power and how consistent content builds credibility for Black founders. Because for us, being visible isn’t just about posting more. It’s about being remembered, trusted, and chosen for what we bring to the table. Many Black entrepreneurs are still building without access to big teams, media features, or industry connections. The game has changed though. Digital tools and social media have given us the power to create our own platforms and control our own narratives. If staying consistent feels overwhelming, this conversation will help you simplify it. You’ll walk away understanding how to make visibility a natural part of your business, not another task on your list. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why visibility is the new currency of credibility for Black founders How to use consistent content to build trust, recognition, and opportunity What makes visibility feel hard and how to move through that fear How to define what visibility looks like for you without burning out Why social media is a powerful equalizer when you learn to use it intentionally How to use tools and AI to stay visible and consistent, especially in busy seasons Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/38518195

272: How to Create Consistent Content Without the Overwhelm 10/02/2025

271: The Selfish Leader: How Prioritizing YOU Can Help Your Business Grow Rapidly with/ Dawn Christian 09/25/2025

270: Why Business Owners Can't Ignore AI & Tools And Trends To Look Out For w/ Stacy Kirk 09/18/2025

269: Making Money While Making a Difference: Scaling and Sustainability for Social Justice Organizations w/ Jasmine Crowe-Houston 09/11/2025

269: Making Money While Making a Difference: Scaling and Sustainability for Social Justice Organizations w/ Jasmine Crowe-Houston You want to build something that actually changes lives, and you also need it to pay the bills. You have felt the pressure to choose one or the other, purpose or profit, when what you really want is both. This episode is for you if you are wrestling with questions like how do I fund my mission, how do I prove my impact, and how do I scale without losing the heart of why I started. In this conversation, you will learn from Jasmine Crowe-Houston, award winning social entrepreneur and founder and CEO of Goodr. Jasmine has built a technology powered company that has redirected more than 25 million pounds of food and delivered nearly 40 million meals by connecting surplus to need, and she has opened dozens of free Goodr Grocery Stores that bring dignified, affordable access to healthy food. She breaks down the real story behind making money while making a difference, from pricing and partnerships to data and mindset, and she is refreshingly honest about what it takes for Black founders to build and sustain social impact at scale. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: How to choose a problem worth solving and translate it into a clear, fundable business model Ways to price a social enterprise by mapping your customer’s current spend and proving cost savings What metrics to track so you can show both social outcomes and business results How to approach investors versus foundations and what to emphasize with each audience Practical strategies to scale impact while staying rooted in community and mission Mindset habits that help you push through rejection, protect your energy, and lead for the long term Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37890930

268: How to Write Your First Book to Build Your Credibility & Authority w/ Geo Derice 09/04/2025

268: How to Write Your First Book to Build Your Credibility & Authority w/ Geo Derice You may have thought about writing a book but quickly shut it down with reasons like “I’m not a writer,” “I don’t have time,” or “Who would even read it?” The reality is, a book is one of the most powerful tools you can have as a business owner because it shifts how people see you. A book makes people stop, listen, and lean in. It builds credibility in rooms where you might have felt invisible and it gives you authority without you having to keep proving yourself. In this conversation, best selling author and international speaker Geo Derice gets practical and real about becoming an author as a business strategy. Geo shares how he went from being overlooked to booked by adding the word author to his title, and why your story already lives in your conversations, it just needs packaging. He walks you through defining your ideal reader, choosing the right idea now, building an outline that saves you time and money, and publishing professionally without wasting coins. We also dig into using your book to open doors, from client work to speaking to partnerships, so you sell less and serve more. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why writing a book instantly elevates your credibility as a business owner The common misconceptions about becoming an author and how to move past them How to choose the right book idea when you have too many to pick from Practical steps to structure and finish your first draft without overwhelm The difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing and which path makes sense for beginners How to use your book as a tool to attract clients, partnerships, and speaking opportunities Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37903830

267: Beyond The Grind: Creating A Sustainable Life & Business Through Holistic Wellness w/ Lauren Wells 08/28/2025

267: Beyond The Grind: Creating A Sustainable Life & Business Through Holistic Wellness w/ Lauren Wells When you're running a business, it’s easy to get caught up in long hours, constant hustle, and putting your own needs last. But here’s the truth: lasting success starts with taking care of yourself. Prioritizing your mind, body, and spirit isn’t a luxury, it's essential for growth. In this episode, we sit down with Lauren LC Wells, founder and chief wellness officer of Hervival, a holistic wellness and leadership company dedicated to helping women especially those in underserved wellness spaces thrive. Lauren’s journey took her from studying nursing to working as a fitness trainer in NYC, and eventually building a thriving wellness community. What started as a movement has grown into an app and now a membership hub that helps people prevent burnout, reduce stress, and live with purpose. Lauren breaks down what holistic wellness really means for entrepreneurs, the impact of grind culture on your wellbeing, and why putting yourself first is the smartest business decision you can make. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep in the hustle, this conversation offers guidance and practical steps to create a sustainable path that fuels both your purpose and your success. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: What holistic wellness means in entrepreneurship How grind culture impacts your health and success Simple, actionable steps to prevent burnout How to set boundaries and make wellness a non-negotiable The mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to thrive beyond the hustle Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37704955

266: Doing the Inner Work: Rewiring Your Nervous System To Lead Without Burning Out W/ Lauren Dike 08/21/2025

265: Investing At Your Own Pace: A Beginners Guide To Alternative Investments That Fit Your Comfort Zone w/ Stephanie A. Dorsey 08/14/2025

265: Investing At Your Own Pace: A Beginners Guide To Alternative Investments That Fit Your Comfort Zone w/ Stephanie A. Dorsey When people think of investing their mind usually goes to stocks, bonds and crypto. But what if we told you there's more to it. That you don't have to invest in any of those three to create long lasting wealth at your own pace without having to submit to peer pressure or needing a large sum to start. In this episode we’re joined by Stephanie Dorsey, Co- founder and CEO of Margins Capital, an alternative investment firm that helps people invest alternatively. Stephanie’s journey spans from working in Afro Ecuadorian communities teaching them about managing money and investments. This ultimately led Stephanie to leading consumer banking innovation at Capital One and ultimately founding her own investment firm. In this episode Stephanie breaks down what alternative investments really are, how to get started and why the wealth gap exists and how we can begin to close it. Whether you’re a beginner or have felt shut out of traditional investing circles, this conversation will help you understand how to invest with confidence and complete clarity so that you feel confident in your investments. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: What alternative investments are and why they matter How to start investing without a lot of money or experience The value of investing at your own pace and comfort level Stephanie’s simple and effective framework for choosing the right investments How to filter out peer pressure and invest with clarity and confidence Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37703705

264: How to Take Time for Yourself While Managing a Business (Or Two) w/ Cristina Jerome 08/07/2025

263: Your Business Can’t Grow If You’re Avoiding the Hard Stuff 07/31/2025

262: The Quiet Work & What To Do When Nothing Looks Like It’s Working 07/24/2025

261: The Underlying Value in Blending Style, Sustainability, & Technology w/ Daryl (DJ) Riley Jr. 07/17/2025

261: The Underlying Value in Blending Style, Sustainability, & Technology w/ Daryl (DJ) Riley Jr. As a Black entrepreneur, you’ve probably felt the pressure to pick one lane or play it safe. But what if your breakthrough is actually in the blend? When bold style, conscious sustainability, and smart technology come together, they create real power in your brand and purpose. Whether you’re building a product or offering a service, your audience is craving more than just a look or a label. They want meaning, function, and innovation. This episode helps you explore how to build with all of that in mind. In this powerful conversation, we’re joined by Daryl “DJ” Riley Jr., engineer, innovator, and co-founder of Tendaji, a fashion tech company known for its solar-powered wireless charging apparel. DJ shares how a college senior design project grew into a nationally recognized business, why sustainability and culture matter at every stage, and how Black entrepreneurs can create value-driven brands across any industry. If you’ve ever wondered whether your big idea was too different or too early, this episode will help you believe in your vision and take action. DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why blending style, sustainability, and tech creates long-term business value How to turn a college project into a nationally recognized innovation Practical ways to embed purpose and culture into your product or service How to stay committed to your mission even when you face setbacks The mindset shifts needed to pursue bold, innovative ideas How tech and sustainability will shape the future of Black entrepreneurship Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37435205

260: People First Leadership: Why Leaders Must Prioritize People Over Processes w/ Dr. Sam Adeyemi 07/10/2025

259: The Mid-Year Check-In You Didn’t Know You Needed 07/03/2025

258: Learning How YOU Work 06/26/2025

258: Learning How YOU Work Let’s be real. A lot of us have been out here trying to follow someone else’s version of success. Copying the routines. Following the “rules.” Pushing ourselves to work in ways that don’t even feel natural. But if your business still feels off, it might not be about doing more. It might be about working differently. Working in a way that actually supports how you move. In this solo episode, Monique is getting into the step that too many early-stage entrepreneurs skip: learning how you personally work best. This isn’t about another hustle routine or productivity hack. It’s about tuning into your rhythm, your energy, and your capacity and building a business that actually fits your life. Especially as Black entrepreneurs, we’ve been told to push through, power up, and work twice as hard. But we don’t often hear that it’s okay to pause, reflect, and choose a way of working that protects your peace. That’s what this conversation is about. If you’ve been checking all the boxes but still feel drained or stuck, this is your reminder that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why many Black entrepreneurs feel stuck mimicking productivity instead of finding flow How to identify your natural work rhythm and align your schedule around it The difference between being productive vs. performing productivity for validation Practical ways to create systems that match your energy instead of drain it How to build flexibility into your routine so it supports you through changing seasons Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast! Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → Connect with us on Instagram: Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter: /episode/index/show/blacktobusinesspodcast/id/37155230

257: What Does Entrepreneurial Freedom Really Mean (and Look Like)? 06/19/2025

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