Barbara Clarke Ruiz, an activewear designer turned entrepreneur, shares her journey and the launch of her lifestyle brand for dogs called Lick You Silly Products and found success on Amazon. Barbara emphasizes the importance of finding the right suppliers, creating standout packaging, and telling a compelling story to build a successful brand. She also shares advice for creative entrepreneurs and the importance of finding a supportive circle of mentors and advisors. Barbara talks about her love for her job and the importance of listening to your gut and finding time for self-reflection. Barbara emphasizes the value of relationships and staying connected in the industry.

In this conversation, Sonia Alleyne talks with Theresa Merritt-Watson, author of the book 'Black Tech, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Leaders in Technology.' They discuss the importance of teaching African-American history to young students and the lack of representation of African-American figures in mainstream education. They also touch on the importance of critical thinking skills and nurturing a child's passion. Theresa shares her experiences as a parent and offers insights into effective parenting strategies. She also talks about her organization, Synergy Training Solutions, which focuses on advocating for African-American students and providing support for parents and educators. Theresa emphasizes the need for change and empowerment within the African-American community.

In this episode of Business First with Sonya Alleyne, Sonya interviews Shawn Townsend, the president and CEO of the Restaurant Association, Metropolitan Washington. They discuss the opportunities and challenges in the restaurant industry, particularly in Restaurant Association, Metropolitan Washington. Shawn shares his background in the restaurant business and his experience as the director of the mayor's office of nightlife and culture. They also talk about the impact of the pandemic on restaurants, the elimination of the tip credit system, and the future of the industry. The episode concludes with a discussion of upcoming events and resources for restaurant owners. DC Restaurant Summer Week Starts August 12, 2024

Andrea Baskett-Pee, founder of Atwasi, a Jamaican luxury travel concierge, discusses the opportunities and challenges in the tourism industry. She shares her journey of moving to Jamaica and starting a tech consultancy before transitioning into the tourism industry. Andrea emphasizes the importance of showcasing the authentic culture, history, and land of Jamaica to travelers. She also highlights the need for more equity and transparency in the tourism industry, particularly in supporting smaller businesses. Andrea plans to expand Atwasi to other Caribbean islands and eventually to parts of West Africa.

Dr. Raymona H. Lawrence is the CEO and founder of Raymona H. Lawrence Coaching, a speaker, corporate trainer, consultant, and professor of health policy and community health. She challenges broken systems that hinder people from reaching their potential, drawing from her experiences as an African-American woman with sickle cell disease. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of disrupting broken systems and creating change in communities. She works with large companies to improve engagement and build authentic connections with communities. In her work with women-owned businesses, she helps them connect the dots and build teams to ensure success. Dr. Lawrence's future focus is on building psychological safety within teams and continuing to challenge broken systems.

Chef Rock Harper discusses the importance of reclaiming culinary rights and decolonizing our tongues. He shares the history of fried chicken and its negative portrayal in media, as well as the lack of Black-owned fried chicken restaurants in the industry. Chef Rock emphasizes the need for representation and economic empowerment in the food industry. He also talks about his restaurant, Queen Mother's Fried Chicken, and the intentional use of high-quality ingredients to serve a great product. Chef Rock discusses the importance of focusing on a core product or concept in the restaurant industry, the challenges of running a restaurant with a wide variety of menu items, and the need for sufficient capital in the industry. He also shares his background and journey in the culinary world, including his time working with B. Smith. Chef Rock emphasizes the power of knowing your customer and solving their problems, as well as the importance of collaboration and maximizing revenue streams in the food business. He also discusses his future goals, including expanding into media and creating spaces for community gathering and creation.

Angelo Ellerbee discusses his work in the music industry, including his efforts to enhance communities through education and the performing arts. He shares stories of working with artists like James Mtume and Melba Moore, emphasizing the importance of relationships and mentorship. Ellerbee also talks about his book, 'Before I Let Go: Life Lessons from an Industry Guru,' which aims to inspire and motivate readers to appreciate the gift of life. He highlights the need for Black people to support and uplift each other, and shares his plans for future projects in film and TV.

Sonia and her guest Marcia Cole talk launching a business. So if you are planning launching a business or just recently launched one this is your episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Business First podcast with your host, Sonia Alleyne! In this episode, we have a special guest, Shalita Grant, an incredibly talented actress and the proud owner of Four Naturals. Join us as we delve into Shalita's inspiring journey, from her successful acting career to the launch of her own company. Shalita Grant has captivated audiences with her incredible performances on screen, showcasing her remarkable talent and versatility. However, behind the scenes, Shalita faced a common yet significant challenge - dealing with hair issues on set. Determined to find a solution, she embarked on a remarkable entrepreneurial venture that would soon become Four Naturals. In this engaging conversation, Shalita Grant shares her experiences as an actress and how her personal struggles with hair issues led her to identify an unmet need in the market. With her passion for natural hair care and the desire to empower others facing similar challenges, Shalita courageously took the leap and founded Four Naturals. Tune in to the Business First podcast as Sonia Alleyne sits down with Shalita Grant, the talented actress and owner of Four Naturals, and discover the fascinating story of how she turned her passion into a thriving business. Get ready for an engaging conversation that will leave you inspired to pursue your dreams, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sonia chats with construction business owner Ladi Goldwire. Yes you read it correctly and she is running things and making her presence known in this male dominated business. Hear her story this week on Business First.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continuing our goal to help make your business bigger better and bolder, Bob Ingram brings his experience in media publishing, diversity and inclusion and as a business consultant to the podcast. Join Sonia for some great stories and some great advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Veteran retail business owner talks about her transition from the music business and drive to find financing to create her latest venture the Happy Mango.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Sonia and her guest Debra Hare-Bey talk lessons learned in failure and how to turn those lessons into success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week a fresh take on the haircare business. Leah Davis gives us some insight on her style and how she shares what she's learned from years of experience with her students. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sonia talks to Grooming Salon owner Darius Davie about his take on grooming at his business Groom Guy. He discusses his business model, unique partnerships and plans for the future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A true Hustle to Handling Business story. Lisa literally started on the streets on New York which is where she developed her ""street smarts"". Hear her evolving story this week on Business First with Sonia Alleyne.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is where the music business and child care intersect. It only happens when you have a focused, talented business woman that is determined to get it done. If you have a main gig and a side hustle you hope to turn into a main hustle this is your episode. Business First with Sonia Alleyne. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Sharon Soloman stops by to talk about her Mind Body and Soul candles. Sonia discusses Sharon's focus, the community in Brooklyn, inspiration from her Dad and the companies rebrand.  This is the podcast where we put Business First. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Business First Podcast talks with master Brander Christopher Augmon. While the fashion industry is a tough nut to crack His story may remind you of your own but hopefully his definitely determination will. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Business First Podcast, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with the extraordinary Salma Salma Qarnain, a true powerhouse and pioneer in the worlds of both entertainment and science. Salma Qarnain is not your typical Hollywood success story; she's an award-winning actress, producer, a rocket scientist, and a co-founder of Black Man Films. But she's so much more than just her impressive titles. Salma's journey is a remarkable one. As a rocket scientist, she's been at the forefront of groundbreaking technological advancements. And as an actress, she recently completed a major Broadway stage play for "Life of PI," a testament to her versatility and talent in the entertainment industry. However, what truly sets Salma apart is her unwavering commitment to improving authentic representation for Black People and South Asians in Hollywood. She's on a mission to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes, striving to create a more inclusive and diverse Hollywood landscape. Salma's unique perspective, experience, and vision make her a force to be reckoned with in both business and entertainment. Join us as we delve into the life and career of Salma Salma Qarnain, and discover the inspiring story of a woman who's changing the game and making waves in multiple industries. You don't want to miss this captivating conversation about pushing boundaries and redefining success.