Just Talking Business with Stephanie van Vark

Stephanie van Vark
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Hard knock small business owner Stephanie van Vark learned entrepreneurship on the job. For thirteen years, through hail, hurricane, persistence and pandemic, she's survived using wit, grit and Southern Charm as her weapons of choice. Listen as Stephanie and a few friends (old, new and fellow entrepreneurs) share stories of pivot, perseverance, survival and redemption in the small business landscape.

  1. FEB 17

    The DEI Series: Roni Bennett Speaks the Necessity of DEI in Modern Business

    In this conversation, Roni Bennett and Stephanie Van Vark discuss the critical role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in business. We explore the historical context of DEI, its importance for business success, and the challenges faced in implementing effective DEI initiatives. The discussion emphasizes the need for authentic engagement, community building, and strategic approaches to ensure that DEI is not just a performative act but a genuine commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. We also address the economic implications of DEI and the necessity for businesses to adapt to a changing landscape. Takeaways 📌DEI is essential for business success. 📌Diverse teams lead to higher profitability. 📌Authenticity in the workplace fosters innovation. 📌Boycotts must be well-organized to be effective. 📌Community building is crucial for support. 📌Economic challenges impact DEI initiatives. 📌Organizations must prioritize inclusivity. 📌Transforming workplace culture requires commitment. 📌Small businesses can lead in DEI practices. 📌Unity among diverse groups is necessary for progress. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DEI in Business 02:54 The Importance of DEI for Business Success 05:44 The Impact of Boycotts and Community Action 08:25 The Evolution of DEI: What Went Right and Wrong 11:16 Transformative Approaches to DEI 13:56 Building Inclusive Communities through DEI 17:03 Navigating the New Business Landscape 22:15 Empowering Small Businesses for Growth 27:49 Building Community and Mutual Support Tell us your best and worst workplace experience when it comes to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion? 👇🏽And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to hear more about the subject. See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    35 min

  2. FEB 11

    Episode 1: The DEI Series: Empowering Communities Through Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

    This series is explores the need (or lack of) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives.  And we're talking the experts about it.  In this conversation, host Stephanie Van Vark speaks with Daniella Pierre from the NAACP Miami-Dade about the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in today's society. Takeaways from this Conversation: ⭐️Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for community growth. ⭐️Historical context shows DEI has roots in civil rights movements. ⭐️Current challenges include legal battles against DEI rollbacks. ⭐️Support for small businesses is crucial for economic development. ⭐️Boycotts can be effective, but community support is vital. ⭐️Engagement in local initiatives can drive change. ⭐️Advocacy for educational access is a priority. ⭐️Networking and mentorship are key for small business success. ⭐️Data shows disparities in access to opportunities. ⭐️The future of DEI requires collective action and investment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DEI and Community Service 02:39 The NAACP's Stance on DEI 05:31 Historical Context of DEI Initiatives 08:35 The Importance of DEI Today 11:26 Legal Actions and Support for Small Businesses 13:51 Impact of DEI Rollbacks on Communities 16:41 Advice for Small Businesses 19:29 Boycotts and Consumer Pledges 22:19 Future Strategies for Economic Empowerment 25:07 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 👇🏽Like, subscribe, and share. See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    33 min

  3. FEB 3

    130. Danielle Jeter, she Left Government to Launch Two Businesses. Here's How.

    In this engaging and thought-provoking conversation, Danielle Jeter, two-time founder and entrepreneur, shares her journey of building a purpose-led career at the intersection of media, community, and impact. She opens up about founding AOI Events and Public Relations and the nonprofit Women in Media Global, and how both ventures work together to create meaningful change. Takeaways ⭐️ Danielle Jeter is a two-time founder with a focus on media and PR. ⭐️ The media landscape is evolving, with more opportunities for women. ⭐️ Mission-driven clients are essential for meaningful work. ⭐️ Balancing a nonprofit and a for-profit can be challenging but rewarding. ⭐️ Personal branding plays a crucial role in business success. ⭐️ Visibility and networking are key to business growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Danielle Jeter and Her Ventures 02:46 The Birth of Women in Media Global 05:37 Navigating the Media Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities for Women 08:15 The Interplay Between Nonprofit and For-Profit 11:14 Mission-Driven Clients: The Heart of the Business 13:52 Balancing Client Needs with Personal Growth 16:46 The Power of Personal Branding in PR 19:32 The WimSpeak Show: Amplifying Women's Voices 22:13 Transitioning from Government to Full-Time CEO 24:56 The Wild West of Podcasting: Opportunities and Challenges To find Danielle Jeter: Instagram @DPGeter See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    35 min

  4. JAN 16

    From Law to Hospitality: How Kevin Kelley Built a 7-Location Restaurant Empire | Kitchen + Kocktails

    What does it take to successfully transition from law to hospitality and build a multi-location restaurant brand? In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Kelley, founder of Kitchen + Kocktails, as he opens his seventh location in Miami and shares the business mindset behind his success. With a background as an attorney, Kevin brings a unique, strategic approach to the restaurant industry, leveraging deep knowledge of entrepreneurship and scalable growth. From gourmet soul food and exceptional service to bold restaurant design and hands-on leadership, Kevin explains how discipline, structure, and financial literacy have helped him navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship in hospitality. He also opens up about the importance of family, leadership, and staying true to your vision while growing a brand. Whether you’re an aspiring restaurateur, business owner, or someone considering a career pivot, this conversation offers powerful insights into restaurant ownership, brand expansion, and business strategy.  Topics Covered Transitioning from law to hospitalityBuilding and scaling a restaurant businessLeadership and hands-on managementEntrepreneurship challenges in the hospitality industryThe southern-inspired menu complete with soul food delicacies and cocktails#KevinKelley #KitchenAndKocktails #RestaurantEntrepreneur #HospitalityBusiness #FromLawToHospitality #RestaurantOwnership #MiamiRestaurants #BusinessMindset #EntrepreneurJourney #BlackOwnedBusiness #JustTalkingBusiness #theentrepreneurspodcast See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    34 min

  5. 08/11/2025

    What does it take to turn artistic passion into a profitable design business? Kenzie Perry tells us.

    Kenzie Perry, shares the business, and the challenges, that lie behind beauty.  Kenzie reveals the real challenges of scaling a creative company  — from navigating supply chains and client demands to standing out in a saturated market. � In this episode, Kenzie shares: * How he navigated the leap from creative talent to CEO in a competitive industry * The challenges of scaling a design brand while maintaining artistic integrity * What it takes to stand out and stay profitable in a $137B+ market � Whether you're a creative, an entrepreneur, or navigating your own design journey, this candid conversation explores the real business behind the beauty. �POWERED BY THE GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU CELEBRATING BLACK BUSINESS MONTH � SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, and COMMENT to support creative entrepreneurs! See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    36 min

  6. 08/04/2025

    How Dr. Saliha Nelson Made Her Small Business Grow Fast!

    Dr. Saliha Nelson is redefining education by fusing youth development with enterprise and innovation. As CEO of URGENT, Inc. and founder of Urgent Academy, a new micro middle school, she has built a mission-driven educational ecosystem that leverages arts, culture, and entrepreneurship to empower urban youth—while modeling a scalable, sustainable approach to impact.  In this episode, we explore: � How transformative learning models are reshaping education � The power of creative education to spark economic opportunity, leadership, and community impact � What it takes to pivot, scale, and sustain a mission-driven educational enterprise See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    46 min

  7. 07/28/2025

    Brother Lyle Muhammad’s Community Model: Safer Streets, Stronger Bottom Lines

    Brother Lyle Muhammad, Executive Director of The Circle of Brotherhood, is a visionary strategist and community architect with over 35 years of experience designing scalable, high-impact violence prevention and reentry programs. His work bridges grassroots organizing and public-private collaboration to drive measurable change in underserved communities.  Mr. Muhammad’s programs have attracted investment from government agencies, nonprofits, and community redevelopment partners.  He's agreed to share his unique ability to align grassroots leadership with institutional funding and measurable outcomes. � If you're interested in scalable models for public safety, workforce development, or justice reform, Mr. Muhammad’s blueprint offers both inspiration and results. See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    36 min

  8. 07/21/2025

    Design. Disrupt. Deliver. | Kenzie Perry of ZeHaus

    Meet Kenzie — a creative force raised in Miami whose passion for art and design sparked the vision behind Ze Haus, a trailblazing brand transforming interiors across the globe. What started as a love for creativity has grown into a thriving design empire. In 2024, Ze Haus contributed to an industry that generated over $137.93 billion in revenue. From innovative wallpaper collections to comprehensive interior design services, Ze Haus delivers beauty, style, and personalized solutions to residential, commercial, and corporate clients alike. 👉 In this episode, Kenzie shares: His creative journey from childhood to CEO How Ze Haus stands out in the $137B+ design industry The power of collaboration with leading manufacturers Tips for merging passion and profit in the world of interior design🎨 Whether you're a creative, an entrepreneur, or just love beautiful spaces, this story will inspire you. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, and COMMENT to support creative entrepreneurs! See this vodcast and others on YouTube @StephanieCreatesTV

    38 min
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About

Hard knock small business owner Stephanie van Vark learned entrepreneurship on the job. For thirteen years, through hail, hurricane, persistence and pandemic, she's survived using wit, grit and Southern Charm as her weapons of choice. Listen as Stephanie and a few friends (old, new and fellow entrepreneurs) share stories of pivot, perseverance, survival and redemption in the small business landscape.

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