ideaHUb Innovators Podcast

Hofstra University
  • 0.0 (0)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The ideaHUb Innovators Podcast showcases the stories of thriving minority-owned businesses across Long Island, New York, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to share their journeys, challenges, and successes. Through in-depth conversations, each episode explores the unique experiences of business owners navigating growth, innovation, and scalability from a diverse perspective. Powered by Hofstra University—Long Island’s largest private university—this podcast fosters meaningful discussions that inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

  1. 11/09/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Fenton Jagarnauth, Fenton Jagan LLC

    In this episode, we're joined by Fenton Jagarnauth, owner of Fenton Jagnan LLC. Fenton has always been around business and business owners. Using the knowledge that he had in the past and realizing that he could profit from merging technology and carpentry, he started Fenton Jagan, LLC, a cabinet manufacturing company.  According to Fenton, understanding your customers is the most challenging part about being an entrepreneur. The most rewarding part about being an entrepreneur is loving what he does. Fenton feels as though when someone loves his product, he feels as if he has accomplished something great and is going in the right direction. He advises another entrepreneur to pay attention to what advice is given to him. Understanding that you cannot or should not try to reinvent the whee,l and learn from other people’s mistakes.

    25 min

  2. 11/06/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Acqullia Bailey, Quilla’s Catering

    In this episode, I’m joined by Acqullia A. Bailey, award-winning chef and founder of Quilla’s Catering, Inc.—a full-service catering company that’s been serving the tri-state area with heart and flavor for over 30 years. From soulful Caribbean dishes to elegant event planning, Acqullia has built a brand that feeds both the body and the community. Her story is one of resilience, service, and culinary excellence. 🎧 Tune in for a deliciously inspiring conversation! About Acqullia Acqullia A. Bailey, married to Everton Bailey; mother to daughters Sabra and Evera Bailey. Acqullia is a graduate of the New York Restaurant School, completing courses in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management. She is also the chef and owner of Quilla’s Catering, Inc., a full-service, home-based catering company located on Long Island, New York, successfully serving the tri-state area for 31 years! Quilla’s Catering, Inc. is a Certified New York State Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise- 2015. (“MWBE”) Quilla’s Catering, Inc. prides itself in providing tantalizing and delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts, featuring traditional Caribbean and Soul Food dishes, along with offering event planning consultation and services, for any occasion, to numerous churches, organizations, businesses, schools, universities, and private individuals. Clients include Hempstead Union Free School District (MBK), Epiphany Blue, JP Morgan Chase, Molloy College, United Way L.I, LIAACC, NYC MTA, Stony Brook University, Town of Oyster Bay Gap Program, and many more. “WE BRING THE PERSONAL TOUCH TO ANY AFFAIR WITH AS MUCH FLAIR AS YOU DARE!” Acqullia received the First Place Prize Award ($2,500) of Hofstra University’s Entrepreneurial Assistance Program’s Spring 2018 Capital One Bank Business Plan Competition. Acqullia was a cooking instructor at the ABGS Middle School, Hempstead, NY, for the Empire State Grant’s MBK Afterschool Program 2018-2020. Also, former President of the Hempstead Chamber of Commerce, 2017-2019. Acqullia was “Chef” at Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace and answered food questions at “Ask Quilla,” a food advice link on the website: www.Sams24-7.com. Acqullia was featured in Hempstead Living’s Spring 2012 edition article entitled “Quilla’s Catering Gets a New Heart and Second Chance.” Acqullia was a volunteer cooking instructor at the Hempstead Boys and Girls Club and Family and Children’s Association. Promise Project (VHI) After School Prog. and Summer Camp, 2008-2015. Acqullia catered a private luncheon for Governor David A. Patterson and Family in 2008. Acqullia was featured in Newsday’s “Who’s Cooking” food column dated April 22, 2007, and Newsday’s food section article entitled “Chef’s Soul Food Picnic” dated July 4, 2007. In 2002, Quilla’s Catering hosted a lavish “Culinary Sampling Presentation” highlighting event venue decorating and food garnishing flair. Acqullia was featured on FOX TV’s Good Day New York’s “Women Who Work From Home” segment in 1998. In 1996, Acqullia provided craft services for the “Damon Wayans HBO Special”. Acqullia has conducted “LIVE” food demonstrations at the Hempstead Public Library and the Baldwin Public Library featuring “Healthy and Delicious” recipes, Caribbean Fare, Soul Food Dishes, Fresh Fruit Flower Arrangements, Simple Chicken Dishes, and more.

    42 min

  3. 11/02/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Janna Rodriguez, Innovative Daycare

    In this episode, I’m joined by Janna Rodriguez—a powerful voice in early childhood education, civic engagement, and community empowerment. From working on political campaigns at 14 to founding Innovative Daycare Corp, Janna has built a career rooted in service, equity, and advocacy. Her work bridges education, policy, and small business—making her a true champion for families and the future. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, purpose, and creating impact from the ground up. About Janna  Janna Rodriguez is a seasoned advocate for early childhood education with over two decades of experience in political activism, healthcare, and community engagement. Her journey began at the age of 14 when she volunteered for local and national political campaigns, including roles with Congressman Gregory Meeks and various state and county races. Her early start in politics provided her with a strong foundation in government policy and civic engagement.   Parallel to her political endeavors, Janna launched a career in healthcare at 16, working at renowned institutions such as South Nassau Communities Hospital and Nassau University Medical Center. By 18, she was the youngest Nursing Assistant and later became the youngest Cardiac Monitor Technician in her department, showcasing her ability to excel in diverse fields.   Her passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from CUNY York College, where she also served as Treasurer of the Student Government Association for two years. Janna further solidified her commitment to early childhood education by obtaining a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education at Brooklyn College, set to be completed in December 2025.   As the Owner and Provider of Innovative Daycare Corp in Freeport, NY, Janna has dedicated herself to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive. Her role involves not just day-to-day operations but also advocating for better childcare policies and practices. Previously, she co-owned Juliet Little Angels, LLC, where she gained extensive experience managing early childhood programs.   Janna is actively involved in organizations such as The CDA Council, NAEYC, Small Business Majority, Childcare Changemakers, and The CSEA/VOICE Union. She leverages her deep knowledge of government regulations, media strategy, and community dynamics to advocate for policies that support early childhood education and small businesses.   With her extensive background, Janna Rodriguez stands as a powerful advocate for children, families, and communities, driven by a passion for education, equity, and empowerment.

    36 min

  4. 10/30/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Dawn Kelly & Jade Duncan, The Nourish Spot

    Today’s guests are Dawn Kelly, and her partner and daughter, Jade Duncan, owners of The Nourish Spot Inc., a healthy food and beverage haven in Queens, NY. Dawn launched the Nourish Spot with her two children after a 35+ year career in PR and communications.  From corporate boardrooms to community-based entrepreneurship, Dawn has transformed her passion for wellness and service into award-winning business success—all while uplifting youth and advancing economic equity. 🎧 Tune in to hear how she’s nourishing her community, one smoothie and one person at a time.

    47 min

  5. 10/28/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Sean Phillips, Genesis Signs & Graphics

    In this episode, we're joined by Sean Phillips—a seasoned Sales and Marketing executive who made the leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship. After decades with top brands like Coca-Cola, MTV, and NBCUniversal, Sean founded Genesis Signs & Graphics, a full-service, minority-owned commercial sign company based in Farmingdale, NY. He brings creativity, strategy, and community impact to everything he does. 🎧 Tune in for a story of reinvention, legacy, and entrepreneurial vision. About Sean Sean Phillips has been a creative Sales and Marketing executive for over 30 years, having worked for many Fortune 500 companies, including Kodak, Coca-Cola, MTV, BET, Turner Broadcasting, and NBCUniversal. Wanting to control his own destiny, Sean left corporate America in 2016 to begin his entrepreneurial career. In 2017, Genesis Signs & Graphics was born, and as Owner & CEO, Sean is responsible for sales development and client relationships for the business. Genesis Signs & Graphics is a full-service, minority-owned commercial sign company in Farmingdale, NY, producing a complete range of sign solutions for a wide variety of client types and industries.  When he’s not out growing the sign business, Sean can be found behind a set of turntables, DJing an event, or making music mixes at home. A proud graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, Sean has also been an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., whose purpose is to make a social and economic impact in the community. And if there’s any time leftover, you might catch Sean on the golf course practicing for retirement.  A native of Westbury, Sean currently lives in Freeport with his wife and business partner, Sharen, and their two sons, Miles and Justin, who are both in college.

    39 min

  6. 10/26/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Godson Michel, Blue Surge Marketing Agency

    In this episode, I’m joined by Godson Michel, President of Blue Surge Marketing Agency and founder of BlackLongIslandBusiness.com. From turning a sneaker hustle into a million-dollar e-commerce success to being named a 2024 Top 50 Black Marketer, Godson has become a force in growth marketing and community empowerment. 🎧 Tune in as he shares insights on scaling businesses, representation, and making meaningful impact through marketing. BIO Godson Michel, President of Blue Surge Marketing Agency, launched his career by turning a college-funding sneaker business into a million-dollar e-commerce venture, gaining recognition in as a Growth Marketing Consultant. He also serves as the founder of the BlackLongIslandBusiness.com. Previously, he co-owned Shades of Long Island, promoting diverse voices, and was honored as a Top 50 Black Marketer in 2024 by the African American Marketing Association. A member of 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, he has completed the Ascend Long Island business accelerator and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Supplier Diversity Mentoring Program.

    47 min

  7. 09/28/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Virginia Gonzalez, Aris Construction

    In this episode, we're joined by Virginia Gonzalez, co-founder of Aris Construction—a trusted residential and commercial construction company known for its quality craftsmanship and commitment to safety. An immigrant from Guatemala with a passion for building, Virginia turned a long-held dream into a thriving business alongside her husband, proving that determination and vision can lay the foundation for success. 🎧 Tune in to hear her journey of grit, growth, and building from the ground up.

    26 min

  8. 06/22/2025

    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast | Clifford Exil, JetEx Mechanical LLC

    In this episode, we're joined by Clifford Exil, Founder and CEO of JetEx Mechanical LLC—a veteran and minority-owned certified business making major waves in HVAC, plumbing, and general construction. With over 15 years of industry experience and contracts with clients like the MTA, Columbia University, and Honeywell, Clifford is building more than just infrastructure—he’s investing in communities and future talent through workforce initiatives and global partnerships. 🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on building a mission-driven, multimillion-dollar enterprise. LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jetex-mechanical-llc/ WEBSITE: https://jetexmechanical.com/

    40 min
See All (19)

About

The ideaHUb Innovators Podcast showcases the stories of thriving minority-owned businesses across Long Island, New York, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to share their journeys, challenges, and successes. Through in-depth conversations, each episode explores the unique experiences of business owners navigating growth, innovation, and scalability from a diverse perspective. Powered by Hofstra University—Long Island’s largest private university—this podcast fosters meaningful discussions that inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

Information

  • Creator
    Hofstra University
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 ideaHUb Innovators Podcast
  • Show Website
    ideaHUb Innovators Podcast