Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? Lessons from your Local Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

Brianna Jovahn
  • 5.0 (25)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Ever wonder how Dallas’s most successful brands actually got built? What's Good goes behind the scenes with local founders to uncover the raw stories and specific strategies they used to grow in the DFW market. Whether you’re building in 'Big D' or scaling a business elsewhere, these raw stories of resilience and innovation offer a blueprint for any entrepreneur driven to move forward. In each episode, you’ll learn answers to questions like: • What’s it like to be an entrepreneur in Dallas? • How do Dallas creatives and entrepreneurs build their brands? • What are the challenges and rewards of running a business in Dallas? • What advice do local entrepreneurs have for starting a business? • How can I find inspiration from successful business owners? • What are the common traits of successful entrepreneurs? • How does the Dallas business community support local innovation? • What are some practical tips for networking and growth? • How do business owners in Dallas stay resilient through challenges? • What unique opportunities exist for Dallas creatives and business owners? • What resources are available for the Dallas local community to build a successful business? Don't forget to Follow, Share, Rate, and Review!

  1. 4d ago ·  Bonus

    You Can Sit With Us: Building the Dallas Girl Gang with Amanda Smith

    In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Smith, entrepreneur, community builder, and founder of Dallas Girl Gang, to explore how authentic relationships can become the foundation of successful businesses and thriving communities. Amanda shares her journey from the classroom to entrepreneurship, the pivots that shaped her career, and why intentional networking is about far more than exchanging business cards. She also offers an inside look at the mission behind Dallas Girl Gang and what it truly takes to create a community where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Episode Timestamps; 00:00 Make People Feel Welcome 00:52 Meet Amanda Smith 01:33 From Teacher to Founder 03:31 Motherhood and New Ventures 04:45 Networking vs Community 07:46 Reaching All of DFW 10:35 Partnerships Drive Events 11:46 What Dallas Girl Gang Is 12:57 Boss Vision Conference Plans 14:55 Building Trust and Feedback 19:17 Listen to Your Community 20:25 Find Your People and Connect Guest Details Amanda Smith is an entrepreneur, community builder, and the founder of Dallas Girl Gang, a thriving network that connects, supports, and empowers women through meaningful relationships, events, and opportunities. She is also the co-founder of The Playbook Co, where she helps businesses and communities grow through intentional strategy and authentic connection. Connect with Amanda Smith: Dallas Girl Gang: https://dallasgirlgang.myflodesk.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandasindallasThe Playbook Co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybookco/ Looking to expand your network and become part of a supportive community? Learn more about Dallas Girl Gang and connect with Amanda Smith to discover upcoming events and opportunities to build meaningful relationships. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone looking to grow their network, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring conversations that encourage connection, leadership, and community. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    You Can Sit With Us: Building the Dallas Girl Gang with Amanda Smith

  2. Jul 13

    Financial Foundations: Building Wealth and Resilience with William Bramblett

    In this episode, we sit down with William Bramblett, a financial professional, to discuss the importance of risk management, personalized financial planning, and preparing for long-term success. William shares how his early experiences with money shaped his career, his journey from intern to financial advisor, and the process he uses to help clients make informed financial decisions. From managing fluctuating income as a business owner to understanding the benefits of a Solo 401(k), this episode offers practical guidance for anyone looking to strengthen their financial future. Key Takeaways William Bramblett’s journey into the financial services industry.Early family influences and financial conversations that shaped his perspective on money.Exploring career opportunities before finding the right professional path.The transition from internship to building a career in financial planning.Understanding risk management and evaluating financial goals before making recommendations.Financial planning strategies for business owners with fluctuating or variable income.The purpose and benefits of a Solo 401(k) for self-employed professionals and business owners.Clearing up common misconceptions about financial planning and long-term wealth building. Guest Details William Bramblett is a financial professional who helps individuals, families, and business owners develop personalized financial strategies through comprehensive planning and risk management. His client-focused approach emphasizes education, thoughtful decision-making, and long-term financial confidence. Connect with William Bramblett: Email: william.bramblett@nm.com Phone: (972) 834-2085 Whether you're a business owner navigating variable income or simply looking to make more informed financial decisions, connect with William Bramblett to learn more about personalized financial planning and risk management. If you found this episode valuable, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone who could benefit from these financial insights, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing expert conversations that empower listeners to build a stronger financial future. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Financial Foundations: Building Wealth and Resilience with William Bramblett

  3. Jun 8

    Stop Using ChatGPT for Contracts! Legal Tips for Entrepreneurs | Asia Wright

    Are you exposing your small business to massive legal risks without even knowing it? Former Deloitte auditor turned Fractional General Counsel, Asia Wright, breaks down the exact legal foundations you need to build and scale your business fearlessly! SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and wealth-building insights! In this episode, we sit down with Asia Wright, attorney and founder of The Wright Choice Firm, to break down the legal realities entrepreneurs often overlook when building a business. Asia shares common misconceptions about attorneys, the most frequent contract mistakes she sees, and how she helps clients assess and manage risk with confidence. This conversation highlights the importance of legal foundations, continuous learning across industries, and making informed decisions that protect and strengthen your business in the long term. ⏳ Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!): 00:00:00 - Introduction & Are Lawyers Misunderstood? 00:02:20 - Who is Asia Wright? From Accounting to Contract Law 00:05:46 - The Ripple Effect of Contract Law & Fractional General Counsel 00:07:27 - The Danger of ChatGPT & Legal Templates 00:12:03 - Understanding Your Business Risk Factor 00:13:42 - The Two Biggest Business Risks: Partners & Contractors 00:16:41 - Why You Need a Trademark Search NOW 00:20:11 - Entrepreneur Highs: Securing Series Funding & Celebrity Investors 00:23:35 - Entrepreneur Lows: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Raising Prices 00:27:01 - Affirmation: "I Can Do Hard Things." 00:30:32 - How to Connect with Asia Wright 00:32:45 - Motivational Moment: Protection is a Foundation Guest Details Asia Wright is an attorney and founder of The Wright Choice Firm, a legal practice dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and business owners protect their companies through strategic legal guidance, risk assessment, and contract support. She is committed to making legal knowledge more accessible and empowering clients to make informed business decisions. Connect with Asia Wright: Website: www.thewrightchoicefirm.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewrightchoicefirm/ Ready to protect and strengthen your business with the right legal foundations? Connect with Asia Wright at The Wright Choice Firm to ensure you make informed, confident decisions. If this episode gave you valuable insights, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with fellow entrepreneurs, and leave a review — your support helps us continue delivering impactful conversations for business owners. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Stop Using ChatGPT for Contracts! Legal Tips for Entrepreneurs | Asia Wright

  4. Jun 3

    Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Transitioning from Corporate | Marian Diop

    Are you a professional woman struggling with imposter syndrome as you transition into your own business? Marian Diop shares how to build the systems, mindset, and confidence you need to make the leap! 👇 SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and business insights! In this special Wild Card Wednesday bonus episode, Brianna Jovahn welcomes you to the newly rebranded "Dallas, Texas What's Good" podcast! Today she sits down with Marian Diop, a photographer and business coach who shares her incredible journey of moving from Hawaii to DFW. Marian discusses her time doing corporate insurance consulting, the reality of navigating male-dominated spaces fresh out of grad school, and how she successfully transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship. They dive deep into why creative entrepreneurs must embrace business systems and how the "Marian Method" helps women align their mindset, marketing, and visual branding. Marian also drops a massive perspective shift on photography: a brand photoshoot isn't just about looking pretty—it's a direct return on investment (ROI) that builds your confidence and changes the way you answer the phone and close deals! ⏳ Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!): 00:00:00 - Intro & Podcast Rebrand to "Dallas, Texas What's Good" 00:01:05 - Who is Marian Diop? (Moving from Hawaii to Texas) 00:03:05 - Navigating Corporate Insurance Consulting with an MBA 00:05:47 - Transitioning to Full-Time Photography & Leaving Corporate 00:07:50 - Why Creatives Must Learn Sales & Business Systems 00:09:18 - Changing How Women See Themselves Through Photography 00:13:13 - The True ROI of Professional Branding Photos 00:14:29 - The Marian Method: Coaching Women in Business 00:16:41 - Testimonial: Launching a Business with Confidence 00:18:51 - Final Advice: Do Hard Things 00:19:22 - How to Connect with Marian Diop 🔗 Connect with Marian Diop: Website: www.themarianmethod.com If this bonus episode helped you rethink your business systems or branding, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a fellow woman in business who needs a confidence boost! More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Transitioning from Corporate | Marian Diop

  5. Jun 1

    Why 90% of Businesses Fail in 10 Years (And How to Survive!) | VR Small

    Are you unknowingly setting your business up to fail by skipping your foundation or discounting your services? VR Small is here to help you smash those survival statistics! SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and wealth-building insights! In this episode, we sit down with VR Small, founder of the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center (VWEC), to discuss entrepreneurship, financial independence, and building sustainable businesses that create long-term impact. VR shares how her understanding of entrepreneurship has evolved through working with veteran women, the importance of strong business foundations, and the role sales plays in transforming ideas into profitable ventures. This conversation highlights the power of mentorship, strategic growth, and empowering women entrepreneurs to create lasting wealth and success. Episode Timestamps; 00:00 Performance-Based Funding 00:25 Welcome and Icebreaker 01:05 Veteran Women and Access 03:03 Meet VR Small 06:04 Building Programs That Work 07:17 VWEC to Virtual Platform 09:17 AI Tracking and Modular Learning 13:00 Credit Lines and Financial Literacy 15:14 Advisors and Long-Term Mentorship 17:47 Foundation Before Fast Money 22:29 Smashing Survival Statistics 29:31 Sales Systems That Convert 36:20 Coupons That Convert 36:48 Discounts And Brand Value 37:47 Client Values And Research 38:57 Know Your Sales Cycle 40:08 Highs Mentorship Impact 43:31 Lows Staffing And Funding 46:08 Rumors About Millions 51:15 Free Advice: Be Intentional 57:01 Women Helping Women Win 01:00:14 Motivational Moment: Faith 01:07:35 Final Wrap And Support VR Small is the founder of the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center (VWEC), an organization dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs—especially veteran women—build strong businesses, create financial independence, and achieve long-term success. Through mentorship, education, and business development support, VR empowers entrepreneurs to scale with confidence and sustainability. Connect with VR Small and VWEC: Website: www.veteranwomensec.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteranwomensecPhone: 469-777-VWECEmail: info@veteranwomensec.org Ready to strengthen your business foundation and grow with purpose? Learn more about the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center and connect with VR Small for resources, mentorship, and support. If this episode inspired you, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with fellow entrepreneurs, and leave a review — your support helps us continue amplifying stories that empower and educate business owners. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Why 90% of Businesses Fail in 10 Years (And How to Survive!) | VR Small

  6. May 25

    How to Build Wealth & Scale a Beauty Business with Heather Weatherspoon

    In this episode, we sit down with Heather Weatherspoon, esthetician, entrepreneur, and founder of a mentorship and scholarship-based community, to explore her journey in the beauty industry and beyond. Heather shares how she built a thriving esthetics business performing up to 120 Brazilian waxes a week, and how that foundation evolved into a mission to educate, mentor, and empower other estheticians. From building wealth to giving back, this conversation dives into pivoting, purpose, and creating sustainable impact through business and community. Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!): 00:00:00 - Introduction & Making $100K in 10 Months 00:01:29 - Reactions to Doing 120 Brazilian Waxes a Week 00:03:50 - Leaving Pharmacy School for the Esthetics Industry 00:06:19 - Business Foundations & The Power of Quiet Time 00:07:07 - What it Really Means to Pivot in Business 00:10:04 - Market Research: Taking Corporate Strategies to Build Your Dream 00:12:29 - Transitioning to Educator & Working with Her First Mentee 00:15:09 - Building a Mentorship Curriculum Beyond State Board Prep 00:17:16 - The Scholarship Foundation & Job Placement 00:19:30 - 31 Ways to Make Money as an Esthetician 00:20:51 - Entrepreneur Highs: Mentees Reaching Six Figures 00:22:31 - Entrepreneur Lows: The JCPenney Black Friday Pivot 00:25:09 - One Free Advice: Make Time for Yourself 00:26:00 - Motivational Moment: "I Think Therefore I Am." Heather Weatherspoon, known as The Lady Brazilianaire, is an esthetician, entrepreneur, and educator dedicated to empowering beauty professionals through mentorship, business education, and community support. She is the founder of a scholarship-based mentorship program designed to help estheticians build wealth, confidence, and sustainable careers in the industry. Connect with Heather Weatherspoon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_lady_brazilianaire/LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/theromanticeyelashgirlWebsite: www.theeladybrazilianaire.com If this episode inspired you to think differently about business, beauty, and building community, make sure to connect with Heather Weatherspoon and explore her mentorship platform. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with someone in the beauty or entrepreneurship space, and leave a review — your support helps us continue highlighting stories of impact and growth. Let's Connect! More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    How to Build Wealth & Scale a Beauty Business with Heather Weatherspoon

  7. May 18

    From the NFL to FinTech: How AI is Democratizing Wealth | Ben Malena

    In this episode, we sit down with Ben Malena, a former NFL player turned fintech entrepreneur, to explore his journey from professional sports into the world of financial technology. Ben shares how he leveraged his marketing background to build a data-driven solution that helps users better understand and improve their finances. From identifying market gaps to choosing a B2B model via banks, this conversation highlights innovation, resilience, and the power of data to drive meaningful financial change. Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!): 00:00:00 - Introduction & The NFL to FinTech Transition 00:06:28 - Who is Ben Malena? Marketing & College Startups 00:10:56 - The Vision for Algo Pair: Why is it So Hard to Grow Wealth? 00:17:46 - The "Zelle" Strategy: Pivoting from B2C to B2B 00:24:24 - The 7 Pillars of Financial Literacy & Democratizing Wealth 00:26:48 - Meet "Celine": How Generative AI is Changing Personal Finance 00:37:26 - Rethinking Money: Savings is a Lifestyle, Not a Deposit 00:43:27 - Entrepreneur Lows: The Art of the Pivot in a Startup 00:49:36 - One Free Advice: Don't Quit & Finish Through 00:55:35 - How to Connect with Ben Malena & AlgoPear 00:56:52 - Motivational Moment: Proverbs 3:5 Ben Malena is a former NFL player and fintech entrepreneur, currently leading innovation at AlgoPear, a platform that helps individuals better understand and optimize their financial decisions with data-driven insights. By combining his background in sports, marketing, and technology, Ben is creating tools that empower smarter financial habits. Connect with Ben Malena: Website: www.algopear.comEmail: malena@algopear.com Curious about how data can transform your financial decisions? Explore AlgoPear and discover how smarter insights can lead to better outcomes. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with someone interested in fintech and innovation, and leave a review — your support helps us continue sharing impactful stories and insights. Let's Connect! Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    From the NFL to FinTech: How AI is Democratizing Wealth | Ben Malena

  8. May 13 ·  Bonus

    HR Secrets for Small Businesses with Krishna Powell

    In this wildcard episode, we sit down with Krishna Powell, business strategist and HR expert, to explore what it truly takes to grow a business beyond the startup mindset. Krishna shares how entrepreneurs can transition from operating small to building companies with strong systems, departments, and intentional culture. From defining company values early on to aligning teams around a shared vision, this conversation offers practical insights for business owners ready to scale with structure and purpose. ⏳ Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!): 00:00:00 - Introduction to Wild Card Wednesday & Krishna Powell 00:01:22 - Managing a Multi-Generational Workforce 00:02:42 - You Don't Have to Do It All: Shifting to a CEO Mindset 00:03:52 - Why You Need HR Before You Hire an Employee 00:07:36 - Stop Copying Corporate America's Employee Handbooks! 00:08:36 - The Unlimited PTO Loophole Mistake 00:10:42 - Transformation Story: Setting Boundaries with Friends & Family 00:15:19 - Why Every Employee Must Contribute to Your Bottom Line 00:18:41 - Why Entrepreneurs Need a Business Coach AND a Therapist 00:22:01 - One Free Advice: Remembering Your "Why" 00:24:35 - How to Connect with Krishna Powell Krishna Powell is a business strategist and HR expert dedicated to helping entrepreneurs build structured, scalable businesses with strong leadership and intentional company culture. Through her work, she supports business owners in developing systems, teams, and strategies that foster sustainable growth and long-term success. Connect with Krishna Powell: Website: www.hr4yoursmallbiz.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krishna_powell/ Ready to build a business with stronger systems, culture, and leadership? Connect with Krishna Powell to learn how intentional structure can transform your company’s growth and success. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with fellow entrepreneurs and leaders, and leave a review — your support helps us continue bringing valuable business insights and inspiring conversations to the community. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    HR Secrets for Small Businesses with Krishna Powell
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Ever wonder how Dallas’s most successful brands actually got built? What's Good goes behind the scenes with local founders to uncover the raw stories and specific strategies they used to grow in the DFW market. Whether you’re building in 'Big D' or scaling a business elsewhere, these raw stories of resilience and innovation offer a blueprint for any entrepreneur driven to move forward. In each episode, you’ll learn answers to questions like: • What’s it like to be an entrepreneur in Dallas? • How do Dallas creatives and entrepreneurs build their brands? • What are the challenges and rewards of running a business in Dallas? • What advice do local entrepreneurs have for starting a business? • How can I find inspiration from successful business owners? • What are the common traits of successful entrepreneurs? • How does the Dallas business community support local innovation? • What are some practical tips for networking and growth? • How do business owners in Dallas stay resilient through challenges? • What unique opportunities exist for Dallas creatives and business owners? • What resources are available for the Dallas local community to build a successful business? Don't forget to Follow, Share, Rate, and Review!

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