So Ambitious

Celebrate the indomitable spirit of Black ambition with this special “Best Of” episode, showcasing our founders’ unwavering power of bold belief in the face of doubts and naysayers! Tune in to discover riveting tales of resilience and triumph, as our guests share inspiring narratives of overcoming adversity on the path to success. Don't miss out on this uplifting journey of determination and achievement! KEY POINTS - Ep 203: Beats to Eats: Derrick Turton a.k.a. Chef Teach’s Journey from Music Mogul to Mac & Cheese Maestro - Ep 205: Grown From Ground Up: Shannon Allen’s Culinary Venture with a Purpose - Ep 209: Money, Privilege, and Advocacy: Ana Pompa Alarcón’s Guide to Entrepreneurship and Social Justice in Tech - Ep 211: Empowering Black Voices in the Fragrance World with Exalté Parfum Founder Funmi Monet RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

In this episode of the So Ambitious Podcast, host Felecia Hatcher sits down with Corey Arvinger, CEO of Support Black Colleges, to dive into his remarkable journey from college party promoter to the helm of a thriving e-commerce brand. Corey shares insights into the evolution of Support Black Colleges and how it blossomed into a full-blown brand with a powerful message of support for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The conversation dives deep into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, with Corey offering candid reflections on navigating adversity, including overcoming the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and rebounding from significant financial setbacks. Tune in to gain valuable insights into Corey's unique approach to marketing and brand building, including his strategies for forging connections with major influencers and A-list celebrities. Corey also opens up about the importance of legacy and honoring the sacrifices of his ancestors, highlighting his unwavering commitment to leaving a lasting impact on his family and community. With engaging anecdotes and actionable advice, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the mind of a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to making a difference in the world. KEY POINTS [1:28] - Corey’s entrepreneurial evolution from throwing parties in college to Support Black Colleges [4:03] - How Support Black Colleges Became A Full-Blown Brand [7:27] - Navigating and sharing the real highs & lows of entrepreneurship [11:34] - Thriving amidst adversity: How Support Black Colleges beat the pandemic odds [16:47] - Losing over $40k in one day: How to find the strength to persist in entrepreneurship [20:41] - How Corey finds balance and enjoyment in his work [22:05] - Corey's approach to marketing and building a brand [24:01] - Corey's secret sauce to networking and relationship-building with celebrities [30:56] - Starting from scratch: Why Corey had to shut his website down [32:45] - How to strike a balance between friendships and management [34:14] - The biggest lesson learned from working with Tyler Perry [35:47] - 3 songs that define Corey’s perspective on life and business [38:51] - Corey’s key lessons on failure: Trying things publicly with confidence & consistency [40:17] - Honoring ancestors' sacrifices and building a legacy QUOTABLES “A lot of current entrepreneurs on social media make it seem easy and fun 100% of the time, and I think it is honestly really unfair to those who are interested in going into entrepreneurship because they're going with the false preset.” - Corey Arvinger “It's about legacy; What can I leave to my family and my next generation behind me? How can I change the trajectory of where my family is going?? - Corey Arvinger “Having the right team is so important. You could have a great product with the wrong team and things will not get accomplished at a high level.” - Corevy Arvinger GUEST RESOURCES Corey Arvinger IG | @coreyarvinger X | @mrarvinger LinkedIn | @coreyarvinger TikTok | @coreyarvinger Support Black Colleges IG | @supportblackcollege RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Today, we are joined by Funmi Monet, the brilliant mind behind Exalté Parfum, a groundbreaking perfume brand that has been making waves in the luxury perfume space. In this episode, Funmi shares her insights on navigating the fragrance industry, from the inception of her brand to its meteoric rise in the social media sphere. With a keen focus on community building and content creation, Funmi shares the essence of confidently crafting content that resonates with authenticity and ultimately builds a loyal community. She also dives into the intricate science of fragrances, highlighting their profound psychological impacts and the art of curating a personalized fragrance wardrobe for various occasions. Funmi emphasizes the importance of breaking barriers, particularly as a Black woman in the luxury fragrance space. She shares invaluable insights into pricing products based on their worth, not succumbing to external criticism, and staying steadfast in pursuing one's ambitious vision. Funmi Monet's story is an inspiring testament to the power of having the audacity to dream big for yourself and risking your reputation in the name of staying true to your vision. KEY POINTS [1:25] - Funmi Monet’s content creation and community building journey [3:14] - Finding your content comfort zone: How to create content confidently [5:14] - The science of fragrance and its psychological impacts [7:05] - Building your fragrance wardrobe: How to craft essential scents for every occasion [10:41] - How to master the subtle art of fragrance in business relationships [16:37] - Breaking barriers as a Black women in the luxury fragrance space [20:10] - Value over voices: How to price yourself based on worth, not critics [24:50] - What success looks like for Funmi Monet and her brand [27:09] - Finding your North Star and trusting your vision despite the doubters [30:24] - Funmi on risking your reputation in pursuit of your ambitious vision QUOTABLES “No one else has to see your vision but yourself.” - Funmi Monet “You don't have to shrink yourself because of what people think you should do to fit an audience they think that you deserve.’ - Funmi Monet GUEST RESOURCES Funmi Monet | Shop Exalté IG | @funmimonet TikTok |/@funmimonet YouTube | @funmimonet RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

In this episode of the So Ambitious Podcast, we dive into the dynamic journey of Dominick Ard’is, the innovative mind behind ACT House, a team formation platform, accelerator and VC providing tools and resources to founders to match with co-founders, build their team, and secure their first check. From his upbringing as a military brat to his diverse career spanning management consulting, politics, and now entrepreneurship, Dominick shares the transformative moments that shaped his multifaceted path. With a portfolio of 50 companies and a total of over $4M in investments through the ACT House Accelerator program, Dominick reveals insights into the keys to starting a successful company and the 3 things that make or break its success. Dominick also opens up about his unique approach to personal and professional growth, from adopting a uniform to streamline decision-making to reflecting on life through heartfelt typewritten letters. Dominick also shares his philosophy of incremental progress, highlighting the power of aiming for 2% better every day, and as he explores what success truly means, Dominick will leave you with profound reflections on the essence of investing in human potential and the audacity to reshape the world through passion, support, and relentless determination. KEY POINTS [1:43] - Who was Dominick Ard’is before ACT House? [5:12] - Grad school to start-up: Dominick’s career transitions into entrepreneurship [11:37] - The story behind ACT House's inception and its impact on entrepreneurship [15:58] - The 3 things that make or break a start-up company’s success [18:37] - How to learn and grow from your entrepreneurial failures [21:28] - 3 reasons why Dominick wears a uniform as an entrepreneur [26:35] - Writing letters to the month: How Dominick's typewriter reflections inspired intentional living [28:15] - Dominick reflects on what it means to have invested in 35 companies through ACT House [30:53] - How tapping into the power of 2% in goal setting will result in massive gains [33:19] - What success means to Dominick Ard’is QUOTABLES “Everything starts at the human. And oftentimes, we look at a founder as a founder first instead of a human first.” - Dominick Ard’is “The reality is this entity can be bankrupt tomorrow, but that person isn't bankrupt. And so if you invest in the human, you get an opportunity to actually see them take this vessel to the next level.” - Dominick Ard’is GUEST RESOURCES ACT House IG | @theacthouse X | @theacthouse LinkedIn | @theacthouse Dominick Ard’is IG | @iamdardis LinkedIn | @dardis RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

In this episode of So Ambitious, we are joined by Ana Pompa Alarcón, CEO of Founders Registry, as she shares her journey of advocating for marginalized founders and creating impactful solutions in the tech industry. From her beginnings at Rikers Island to supporting our Black Ambition finalists, Ana's story is one of fierce advocacy, resilience, and empowerment. In this conversation we uncover how she navigates the complexities of entrepreneurship and addresses systemic issues faced by minority founders that sometimes even stem from minority organizations. We talk about the importance of using privilege to open doors for others and the need for diverse communities to support each other and work together to create change in the industry. Ana also discusses challenges faced by early-stage entrepreneurs, especially those from diverse backgrounds, in navigating the venture space, and provides insights on how to make the best decisions for their companies while dealing with financial desperation and toxic relationships with money. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in raising capital, advocating for social justice, and empowering underrepresented communities. Tune in to hear Anna's powerful story and insights on building a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem. KEY POINTS [1:56] - How Ana is supporting systemically purposefully marginalized founders in raising capital [2:55] - Ana’s entrepreneurial roots - how her first company started out of Rikers Island [6:38] - How do you get someone that you recently met to introduce you to an investor? [10:12] - Resources and tools to help you negotiate better on your behalf [12:11] - Grappling with privilege gaps and lack of diversity and in VC industry [18:12] - Dealing with disillusionment of organizations’ support (of lack thereof) of marginalized founders [23:46] - How can we create more transparency between founders and investors? [26:04] - Addressing money wounds and toxic relationships with money in the VC space [30:04] - Ana on self-care as an advocate and entrepreneur [32:25] - Who is Ana uninterrupted? QUOTABLES "People need to walk the walk. And if they're not doing this, they need to suffer the consequences, and the consequence is deal flow. Do not take money from people that will throw you under the bus the second they have the opportunity." - Ana Pompa Alarcón “Whatever privilege you have, whether that's money, education, skin, color, race - use that privilege to open doors.” - Ana Pompa Alarcón “I do not believe that we should shame anyone who has been marginalized for where they get the money from.” - Ana Pompa Alarcón "I truly believe that, [and] there's data to back up that, if all indigenous Brown, Black people, Muslims, Arabs would work together and have each other's back, the buying power, the purchasing power that we have, we could take over the economy." - Ana Pompa Alarcón GUEST RESOURCES [megaphone] Ana Pompa Alarcón IG | @ana_pompa_alarcon LinkedIn | @ana-pompa-alarcon-rawls Founders Registry IG | @founders_registry RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

In this episode, we sit down with Evan Leaphart, founder of Kiddie Kredit, co-founder of Black Men Talk Tech, and recent million-dollar grant recipient of the 43North accelerator program. With such a robust portfolio, what does it entail to lead not just one but two major initiatives that make such a significant impact on the world? Discover how Kiddie Kredit is reshaping credit education by addressing the needs of over 90 million credit-challenged Americans burdened by $1 trillion in credit card debt. Evan stresses the significance of proactive credit education, positioning Kiddie Kredit as a preventive measure rather than a reactive solution in the credit industry. You will also learn how Evan cultivates personal connections to forge partnerships with industry giants like Equifax and Discover, and follow him along his transformative fundraising journey, where a small but powerful shift in mindset towards mission alignment empowered him to navigate the fundraising landscape with confidence and purpose. Tune in as Evan discusses the challenges he faced throughout his many entrepreneurial journeys, how he navigates the complexities of the fundraising world, and the invaluable lessons he learned along his path to success. Get ready to be inspired by the trailblazing entrepreneur shaping the future of the tech industry! KEY POINTS [1:08] - Evan’s entrepreneurial journey to founding Kiddie Kredit [2:51] - How Kiddie Kredit addresses credit card issues that 90 million Americans face [5:55] - Evan Leaphart’s role as co-founder of Black Men Talk Tech and the inspiration behind it [7:55] - What drives Evan’s pursuit of impact through Kiddie Kredit and Black Men Talk Tech [9:22] - Evan’s secret to building is deep resources and support system [11:45] - How Evan cultivated his relationships in funding and investments [13:28] - Evan on navigating shifts in power dynamics in the venture capital space [16:45] - Keeping up with the pace and pressures of being an entrepreneur [18:34] - Challenges faced by Black founders in the venture space and the need for true equality [20:32] - Winning 43North: Evan's process & journey leading up to winning the million-dollar investment [23:34] - Evan’s insights & advice on building partnerships with major corporations like Discover and Equifax QUOTABLES “4 out of every 10 Adults don't know what goes into their own credit score, and for the first time in US history, credit card debt surpassed $1 trillion.” - Evan Leaphart “10 seconds you spend thinking on how great you are is 10 seconds lost on how much better you could be.” - Evan Leaphart GUEST RESOURCES Evan Leaphart Kiddie Kredit Black Men Talk Tech LinkedIn | @evanleaphart IG | @evanleaphart X | @evanleaphart RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

In this episode, we are joined by Amber Cabral, renowned DEI expert, author, entrepreneur, and founder of Cabral Co., as she brings us into the intricate world of diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering invaluable insights on creating genuinely inclusive spaces within organizations. Drawing from her rich career budding from her impactful work at Walmart, Amber emphasizes the transformative power of intentional actions, feedback loops, and storytelling in fostering workplace environments that prioritize true belonging and equity. Throughout this conversation, you will discover the tools she employs for navigating challenging conversations with grace, gain a glimpse into her book writing process, and understand the profound influence of storytelling in reshaping narratives around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Amber also reveals her roadmap for individuals and organizations to shift from a deficit-framed to an asset-framed perspective, laying the foundation for meaningful progress in the realm of DEI. Tune in as Amber shares her authentic and passionate approach to equity work, envisioning a world where everyone feels empowered to engage in crucial conversations centered around DEI. KEY POINTS [1:32] - Amber Cabral's diversity career & founder journey [3:10] - Bridging diversity gaps and redefining DEI in Walmart [5:35] - How to navigate heavy situations and tough conversations in DEI [9:39] - What are corporations doing wrong and right in DEI? [12:01] - Can diverse startups get diversity wrong too? [14:50] - How to give and receive feedback effectively in DEI work [18:45] - Amber’s writing process for Allies and Advocates and Say More About That [23:26] - The importance of storytelling in equity work [25:25] - How to move DEI from deficit-framed to asset-framed stories [28:39] - Who is Amber Cabral uninterrupted? QUOTABLES “Starting a tough conversation very often is made easier by asking a question.” - Amber Cabral “People assume that apologizing does not have anything to do with equity, but we've all seen organizations apologize really badly.” - Amber Cabral GUEST RESOURCES Amber Cabral IG | @bamcabral LinkedIn | @ambercabral X | @BamCabral Tune in to the Guilty Privilege Podcast! Grab a copy of Amber’s books at Amazon! Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture Say More About That: ...And Other Ways to Speak Up, Push Back, and Advocate for Yourself and Others - RESOURCES [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Jay Bailey started his first business at 12, bought his first house at 19, and made his first million at 23. But the true turning point in his narrative came when he chose significance over success, recognizing that the real impact lay in building enduring legacies for fellow Black entrepreneurs. This audacious decision marked a profound chapter in his story, reflecting a commitment to empower others with the same bold vision. In this episode, Jay Bailey lets us in on the compelling legacy crafted by Herman J. Russell, the visionary founder of the Russell Center, and his commitment to building an institution that will impact many generations to come. Jay also reveals powerful insights on nurturing high-level relationships, building lasting legacies, and the power of access, opportunity, and exposure when given to Black businesses and entrepreneurs. Jay Bailey's journey echoes a powerful truth – that success finds its highest form in the enduring impact one leaves behind for others. Join in on the conversation as we embrace the spirit of empowerment and leaving legacies that resonate through time. KEY POINTS - (1:36) Jay’s early successes and failures in entrepreneurship - (5:25) The trinity of transformation: Access, opportunity, and exposure - (7:45) The RICE mission to create a sanctuary for Black entrepreneurs to fail and fly - (10:43) Why RICE refers to their entrepreneurs as stakeholders - (12:14) Carrying forward Herman Russell’s powerful legacy - (16:33) Biggest lessons learned and responsibilities shouldered on building a family legacy - (17:53) Jay on the responsibility of building legacy for yourself and for others - (19:50) The importance of trusting in your vision and before it is fully realized - (21:58) Biggest success stories and entrepreneurs to emerge & flourish from the support of RICE - (25:23) RICE's commitment to ensuring that partners properly support their deserving stakeholders - (28:06) Navigating the world of authentic high-level relationships: Insights & tips from Jay himself - (35:47) What success looks like to Jay Bailey (and the last thing Jay Bailey failed at) - (39:17) Jay’s roots of relationship nurturing: How Jay cultivates authentic & enduring connections QUOTABLES “For everything that was done and sacrificed for us to be here right now, we don't have the right to fail.” - Jay Bailey “I went from living in a 10,000 square foot home at 26 to literally living in a nine by nine storage unit at 28. But it was there that I understood this concept of success and significance.” - Jay Bailey “There are very few times in life where you get to be a part of something you know will outlast you. There are even rare moments where you get to be a part of something that could potentially change the course of history. And then there are the rarest moments where you could potentially be the best in the world at something.” - Jay Bailey “Loss creates leaders, and most incredible developments are born out of pain.” - Jay Bailey “Plant seeds that will grow trees whose shade you may never sit on.” - Jay Bailey RESOURCES Jay Bailey | Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs LinkedIn | @jaybailey [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Profound and enduring impact lies at the intersection of entrepreneurship and advocacy - and there is no better testament to this than the story of Shannon Allen. Shannon Allen is the visionary founder of Grown, a healthy fast-casual restaurant franchise that has not only disrupted but redefined the culinary landscape in Miami. Shannon's story goes beyond entrepreneurship; it is a powerful testament to the transformative potential when business acumen meets a deep commitment to positive change. In this episode, Shannon shares her journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial family in Connecticut to becoming an advocate for diabetes awareness and healthy eating. She recounts the life-changing moment her son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and how it propelled her into becoming an advocate, raising awareness and funds for diabetes research. Shannon also discusses the inception of Grown and her vision to scale it as a healthy alternative to traditional fast food. Join in on the conversation as Shannon's resilience, determination, and commitment to making a positive impact shine through, serving as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and advocates. KEY POINTS - (2:02) Shannon’s family background and their entrepreneurial roots - (5:36) Shannon on her initial resistance to entrepreneurship and owning a business - (9:08) How motherhood changed the way Shannon viewed legacy - (12:24) The origin story of Grown: Shannon’s venture into advocacy & revolutionizing the food industry - (23:56) Wearing both hats of entrepreneur and advocate - (28:34) Doing it anyway: How Shannan overcame obstacles & naysayers when building her business - (36:24) Shannon’s definition of success and the future of Grown - (41:51) Shannon on dealing with public closures, learning from losses, and loving risks - (48:42) What’s next for Shannon and the future of Grown? QUOTABLES “Having black ambition is so key because it's so easy to believe that we don't belong here. It's so easy to fall into this belief system that there are limits on what we can accomplish, and it's so easy to forget who we really are.” - Shannon Allen “Of all the venture money that's raised in this country. We know the numbers - only 2% of those dollars ever even touch women's hands. And Black women, we don't even get to sniff it.” - Shannon Allen “I think true entrepreneurs are not risk averse. We love risks. We are like, throw me out of the plane and I'll build the parachute on the way down.” - Shannon Allen RESOURCES Shannon Allen IG | @swalkerwil Grown IG | @grown Lunchology IG | @lunchology.co [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Although notoriously known as the King of Spicy Tweets, Brian Brackeen, seasoned entrepreneur and General Partner at Lightship Capital, has built a track record of raising billions in support of Black businesses and entrepreneurs, making waves that resonate far beyond the confines of 280 characters. In this interview, Brian Brackeen provides an intimate look into his journey as he recounts the pivotal moment of his removal as CEO, offering profound insights into the distinctive challenges encountered by Black founders. Brian also discusses the crucial theme of legal preparedness, stressing the importance of contracts and protections for founders, especially those from underrepresented communities, to fortify themselves against unjust removals from their own ventures. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, legal wisdom, and a deeper understanding of the journey toward a more equitable tech industry. Tune in for a dynamic exploration of Brian Brackeen's remarkable journey and his impactful contributions to the tech and startup ecosystem. KEY POINTS (1:21) - Brian’s role at Lightship Capital and his journey from Philly to Apple and IBM (4:05) - Brian on his move to the Miami startup ecosystem for venture capital raising (8:33) - Starting Kairos: how it shifted from a time clock company to facial recognition technology (10:03) - How to best structure a board and fortify yourself as a founder (12:10) - Brian on the day of his removal from the Kairos board (14:13) - Bridging disparities in legal preparation, transparency, and support for Black founders (17:29) - Fostering transparency and shedding light on inappropriate board removals (19:41) - Brian on the privilege of having safety nets for white vs minority founders (21:32) - The origins of Black Tech Week in providing opportunities & resources for Black entrepreneurs (25:03) - The origin story of Candice & Brian Brackeen and 6 years of building their legacy (27:55) - Creating visibility & opportunities, and featuring the stories of Black founders through Black Tech Week (31:42) - What’s next for Brian Brackeen and Black Tech Week? QUOTABLES “One of the problems of venture and startups in general is that it's highly designed for the young white male founder.” - Brian Brackeen “Unfortunately, one of the worst parts of my job is I probably take between 8 and 12 calls a year, every year, from a founder who has been inappropriately removed asking me for my help.” - Brian Brackeen RESOURCES Brian Brackeen Twitter | @BrianBrackeen IG | @lightship.capital Linkedin | @brianbrackeen [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Meet the man who made Mac & Cheese cool - Derrick Turton a.k.a. Chef Teach, went from managing music artists to becoming the culinary force behind the World Famous House of Mac in Miami. Renowned for his exceptional mac and cheese, Chef Teach's story is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the pursuit of passion. In this episode, Derrick imparts invaluable lessons learned from the music industry that laid the groundwork for his triumphs in the culinary world. You’re going to learn the secret sauce behind House of Mac's branding success and Derrick’s key to mastering the art of cultivating and leveraging relationships. Derrick also gets vulnerable as he shares the poignant moment that sparked his renewed focus on legacy-building after the passing of his father and the biggest storms he had to weather to keep his employees and legacy alive through COVID. Get ready to uncover the roots of Derrick's fearlessness and relentlessness in entrepreneurship as he busts the biggest myths on entrepreneurship and imparts crucial wisdom on pursuing passion over chasing monetary gains. Tune in for an episode filled with entrepreneurial gems and the savory tales behind House of Mac's rise to culinary stardom. KEY POINTS (1:26) - Derrick Turton's transition from music mogul to culinary sensation, Chef Teach (3:24) - Derrick’s biggest lessons from managing artists that led to successfully running House of Mac (5:02) - How the passing of his father prompted Derrick’s renewed focus on building a legacy (7:20) - How Derrick created culture, community, and an empire from Mac & Cheese (11:46) - Where Derrick gets his fearlessness & relentlessness in entrepreneurship from (17:45) - The secret behind Derrick’s branding strategy & success (19:31) - Mastering the art of cultivating and leveraging relationships in entrepreneurship (21:36) - House of Mac’s evolution from food truck to restaurant empire (26:07) - How Derrick weathered the storm through COVID and kept his company afloat (33:52) - Derrick busts the biggest myth about entrepreneurship (35:35) - Derrick’s insights on the importance of pursuing passion over chasing monetary gains QUOTABLES “Outside of the comfort zone is where the magic happens.” - Derrick Turton “Culture is different. It's not one size fits all.” - Derrick Turton RESOURCES Derrick Turton IG | @bigteach718 House of Mac IG | @worldfamoushouseofmac [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

[APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now In this episode, Felecia Hatcher is joined by Necole Kane - a retired celeb blogger, media mogul, founder of My Happy Flo, and the queen of making pivots. From being the brains behind Necole Bitchie to crafting xoNecole, which she later sold to Will Packer Media, Necole spills the beans on navigating the rollercoaster of business & personal transformations. Necole’s journey is a masterclass in embracing change and turning your failures into fuel for success. She doesn't sugarcoat the challenges she faces at each turn, but rather, she shines a light on how to keep pushing forward when the world seems to revel in your missteps. From handling the naysayers to finding your deeper purpose in business, Nicole shares the gritty details of her story like never before on the So Ambitious podcast. Get ready for some real talk on dealing with the messy parts of entrepreneurship, public scrutiny, and facing failures head-on from someone who's not just weathered storms but turned them into opportunities for growth and resilience. KEY POINTS (2:33) - Necole’s interrupted moment: the day she quit her celebrity gossip blog (9:12) - How Necole navigated her very public pivots and the pressure of deciding “What’s Next?” (16:06) - Necole on selling her website xoNecole.com and seeing it exist without her (21:32) - The inspiration, mission, and vision of My Happy Flo (28:57) - Setting a new tone on how to care for Black women (31:11) - Necole on permitting herself to take a break from her brand (38:03) - Who is Necole Kane uninterrupted? QUOTABLES “You can't get to the top of the next mountain without coming down off of one.” - Necole Kane “When you ask God to use you, you can't choose how he uses you.” Necole Kane “Success looks differently to everybody on why they started it and what the ending is supposed to look like.” - Felecia Hatcher “Sometimes your purpose has to be way greater than your comfort zone.” - Necole Kane RESOURCES Necole Kane | My Happy Flo IG | @hellonecole [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

[APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Imagine a world where Black and Hispanic innovators are provided with the resources, mentorship, and backing to thrive without any interruption. In just 3 years, Black Ambition Prize has not only invested in nearly 100 entrepreneurs but has also offered support to over 750 innovators. During this time, the initiative has also granted nearly $6 million to founders dedicated to reshaping the landscape of industries such as product development, healthcare, media, and web technology, influencing their trajectory, mindset, and performance. In this episode, we take a glimpse into the mind of Felecia Hatcher, visionary CEO of Black Ambition, as she sits down with Sherrell Dorsey, Founder of The Plug, to some exciting light on the impact and future of Black Ambition Prize as well as what to expect from the lineup of entrepreneurs and leaders for Season 2 of the So Ambitious Podcast. You will also uncover the intricacies of her transition from founder of Black Tech Week to CEO of Black Ambition Prize, steering the organization into an epoch of empowerment for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs and founders. Join in on the conversation and discover the ground-breaking path to uninterrupted Black Ambition that Felecia Hatcher is forging today. KEY POINTS (1:33) - Felecia’s journey to CEO of Black Ambition (4:20) - Celebrating 100 Black Ambition Prize winners & 750 entrepreneurs supported in 3 years (5:41) - New opportunities for HBCUs and the next cohort of the Black Ambition Prize (7:20) - What to expect in Season 2 of the So Ambitious Podcast QUOTABLES “Every entrepreneur is different as a result of the pandemic. And so there's new challenges, new opportunities that have sprouted up that we as an organization also have to make sure that we're supporting them at the highest level.” - Felecia Hatcher “We should be allowed to tell successful stories about Black and Brown people as well their most ambitious moments.” - Felecia Hatcher RESOURCES Sherrell Dorsey IG | @sherrell_dorsey [APPLICATIONS OPEN!] | Are you building a high growth business in tech healthcare, AI, media entertainment, or consumer goods and services? If so, we'd like to help you scale. Don't miss your chance to win $1 million, capital coaching, and access to an amazing community of diverse innovators! Apply for the 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition now Felecia Hatcher IG | @feleciahatcher Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

Step into the dynamic world of Season 2 of the So Ambitious podcast, an electrifying exploration of stories driven by our community of Black Founders and Entrepreneurs. Founded by Pharrell Williams, Black Ambition has unleashed a wave of impact, propelling nearly 100 entrepreneurs with unique tales of tenacity and innovation. Launching on 26 February 2024, join us in Season 2 of the So Ambitious Podcast as we celebrate the audacity to dream and build. This new season promises an unfiltered dive into the minds of visionary founders, navigating challenges and seizing opportunities, all while crafting a legacy where ambition reigns supreme. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of inspiration as we decode the secrets of success and amplify the voices of those who refuse to be interrupted on their journey to greatness. Season 2 of the So Ambitious Podcast launches 26 February, 2024 - we’ll see you there. RESOURCES: Black Ambition IG | @blackambitionprize So Ambitious is produced by EPYC Media

From a high school talent show that landed him in the presence of music industry vet Teddy Riley to becoming one of the most influential and successful music producers and businessmen of the 21st century. We close out our first season of the So Ambitious Podcast with an intimate conversation between Black Ambition’s CEO Felecia Hatcher and musician, producer, and serial entrepreneur, Pharrell Williams. https://pharrellwilliams.com/Sponsored by Heineken USA.

From selling beautifully crafted yarn bracelets as a pre-teen to becoming our 2022 $1M Black Ambition Grand Prize Winner, Camille Bell, shares her remarkable journey of betting on herself and persevering. "We're creating award-winning formulas that are personalized to different skin and lip tones so everyone can achieve the color they want," says Camille. The founder of cosmetics company Pound Cake sits down with Felecia in this episode to break down crowdfunding and turn lessons into launchpads. https://poundcakecosmetics.com/ Sponsored by Heineken USA.

From pushing furniture sales at a Miami design showroom to venturing out on her own to create a full-service interior design studio bringing in seven-figure projects. Eilyn Jimenez, Sire Design's founder and creative director is no stranger to rough starts. "Being ambitious, at least for me, represents not only what I can bring to the table for myself, but also what I can bring to the table for somebody else," says Eilyn. In the episode, she talks to Felecia about staying authentic, cultivating trust and nurturing deep relationships when building a business from scratch. https://www.siredesign.com/ Sponsored by Heineken USA.

From pushing papers at a local Maryland radio station to apprenticing under Whoopi Goldberg's cannabis line, Mennlay Golokeh Aggrey is on a path to nurture a more inclusive cannabis industry with regenerative product. In this episode, Mennlay talks with Felecia about the benefits and science behind her product Xula Herbs, and her quest to promote hemp products that support comfort and relief during hormonal cycles. “I was immersed in this cannabis culture from, from seed to sale,” says Mennlay. “And that influenced how I saw myself, being close to this plant that I had been using for a very long time.” With 16+ years of inter-disciplinary cannabis experience, the two talk viable products, creative marketing efforts, and finding innovation in ancestral pathways. https://www.xula.us/Sponsored by Heineken USA.

From a shout-out by Beyonce to securing partnerships with Facebook and Louis Vuitton, Jeffrey LaBeija and Marcus LaBeija of the Royal House of LaBeija know the power of visibility in building a brand. In this episode, they talk with Felecia about the multimillion dollar business of ballroom. “Who we are as Black queer people isn't necessarily always celebrated,” says Marcus. “It's always associated with shame or guilt or remorse. In ballroom, it’s associated with a grand prize and cash.” These leaders from drag’s first house talk to Felecia about trademarks, mutually beneficial partnerships, and how entrepreneurship is inherent to being Black in America. https://www.royalhouseoflabeija.com Sponsored by Heineken USA.

From folding T-shirts at Abercrombie & Fitch to running Issa Rae’s record label, Benoni Tagoe has learned the value of both pursuing work that you love and uplifting others. “It feels great to see other people succeed based off of a dream and a vision that you had,” the head of business development for Hoorae Media and president of Raedio tells Felecia in episode 5. “And to see that your dream and vision help other people, that's the ultimate feeling. That's what it's really all about.” He talks to Felecia about Insecure’s impact on the music industry, the importance of reading contracts, and always putting artists first. https://hoorae.co Sponsored by Heineken USA.