Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey

Co-Hosts: Angela & Clarita - A CME Accounting LLC Podcast
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Welcome to 'Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey' – the podcast that shares wisdom and support from entrepreneurs. Join me as we explore valuable insights, resources, and motivation to inspire your own venture. Let's build a supportive community together.What sets this podcast apart? This podcast is not just about stories but about providing support and a sense of community while we all figure out Beginning, Building or Blossoming in the business world.The episodes are designed to guide us through the different stages of the entrepreneurial journey – Beginning, Building and Blossoming. In each episode, we'll focus on one or all of these crucial phases, ensuring that we all get practical tips and insights that we can apply to our own business.First up, the "Begin" segment. We'll explore the initial steps of beginning a business. From idea generation to crafting a business plan, we'll cover it all. As the host - I'll be asking questions that resonate with anyone contemplating the entrepreneurial leap, giving all of us the tools to turn our vision into a reality.Next, we move on to the "Build" section. Scaling a business is a delicate art, and we'll uncover strategies to take our enterprises to new heights. Whether anyone is looking to expand their team, explore new markets, or enhance their product line, our guests will share their experiences and advice to help us scale effectively.And finally, we'll tackle the "Blossom" phase. Success means different things to different people, and we'll explore various definitions of success in the business world. From achieving financial milestones to making a positive impact on our community, our conversations will inspire you to define and achieve each individual's version of success.Remember, our journey starts here, but it doesn't end here. Let's do this together!

  1. The Power of Community and Confident Selling with Jac White

    5D AGO

    The Power of Community and Confident Selling with Jac White

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Jac White  Host: Clarita  Today we are joined by Jac White, a sales and business development expert with over 20 years of experience helping women grow their businesses with confidence. Jac has built her career around helping women turn their natural strengths into authentic, effective sales skills; skills that don’t just sound good, but actually drive revenue and real client growth. She is the founder of the HoneyBees Group and host of the Girls Make Bank podcast, where she continues to empower women to show up, sell confidently, and build businesses that support their lives. With experience across brands like LearnVest, DailyCandy, The New York Times, and Armani Exchange, along with startups and consulting, she brings both corporate insight and an entrepreneurial perspective. She’s also a recognized thought leader, with features in Forbes, Huffington Post, and Entrepreneur. What we talked about:  Her personal journey into entrepreneurship  The first step service providers should take once they decide to start their business  Selling with confidence and truly valuing your services  What we should—and shouldn’t—be willing to do when it comes to selling and evolving as service providers  Pivoting and evolving your business over time  What success means to her at this stage of her journey  The ecosystem women are building through community and connection  Hosting in-person breakfasts for women building businesses  Creating space through virtual meetups and ongoing community support Connect with Jac: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacwhite Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjacwhite Podcast: https://www.honeybeesgroup.co/girlsmakebank Website: https://www.honeybeesgroup.co

    45 min
  2. Valarie Brandes & Jacaranda Books: Publishing Diverse Voices Globally

    APR 25

    Valarie Brandes & Jacaranda Books: Publishing Diverse Voices Globally

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Valarie Brandes, CEO & Founder, Jacaranda Books Host: Angela Episode Summary :  In this inspiring episode of Begin Build Blossom, we discover how Valarie Brandes, founder of Jacaranda Books, built a global publishing house rooted in diasporic excellence. Valarie shares insights on publishing diverse Black voices worldwide, balancing family and entrepreneurship, and growing Jacaranda from a home office to an international powerhouse. Learn about her journey, the influence of her Dominican heritage, and how Jacaranda published 20 books in 2020 (#Twentyin2020) while creating a lasting legacy in the literary world. What We Talked About Balancing family life while building a businessThe inspiration behind the name JacarandaThe power of networking in your field of interestPublishing diverse voices globallyHow Jacaranda published 20 books in 2020 (#Twentyin2020)Building a core global team for diasporic excellence and legacyWhy the commercial side of any enterprise mattersA Book That Impacted Valarie the Most The Bluest Eye by Nobel Prize‑winning author Toni MorrisonConnect with Jacaranda Books Catch Jacaranda Books in Trinidad & Tobago at the Boca Film Festival from April 29 – May 4, 2026   Festival Website: https://www.bocaslitfest.com Social Media:  TikTok: @jacarandabooks X: @jacarandabooks Facebook: Jacaranda Books Art Music Ltd Instagram: JacarandaBooks

    58 min
  3. Building Wealth with Intention: Insights from a Finance Professional’s Journey

    APR 17

    Building Wealth with Intention: Insights from a Finance Professional’s Journey

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Christine Limuti Host: Clarita  Christine is a finance professional and entrepreneur with over 15 years of combined experience in entrepreneurship, cash flow management, business strategy and operations, and financial forecasting. Her work is centered on supporting individuals, families, and business owners in building and sustaining financial wealth while also focusing on multi-generational wealth, asset preservation, stewardship, and meaningful, long-term investing. She is also a wife and mother of four, with children ranging in age from 3 to 13. Her approach to both life and business is grounded in her core values of faith, family, and stewardship. Beyond her professional work, Christine is a marathon runner, a barre and Pilates instructor, and a mental health advocate. She enjoys a good read, a true crime podcast, and spending quality time over food and drinks with her tribe. At her core, she believes in seeking good or creating it and in embracing our limitless capabilities. What we talked about:  Why building the right team (financial advisors, accountants, mentors, and leadership support) is essential as you grow  How having trusted professionals in your corner can shift the way you make decisions and move through challenges The importance of building an advisory team you trust and treating that support as a key part of your business The role of mentorship in helping you gain clarity, confidence, and direction in both business and life  Recognizing that you may be more ready than you think  How thoughtful, prudent planning can reduce stress and create a stronger foundation for your business and personal life  What it means to be intentional with your time and energy as a business owner  How to begin recreating the stability of W-2 benefits, including planning for retirement, insurance, and long-term security Connect with Christine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-limuti Website: https://theatriumfinancialgroup.nm.com Email: christine.limuti@nm.com

    35 min
  4. Redefining Success with Britny Virginia: Purpose, Creativity & Navigating the Arts with a Disability

    APR 9

    Redefining Success with Britny Virginia: Purpose, Creativity & Navigating the Arts with a Disability

    Send us Fan Mail Guest:  Britny Virginia - Poet, Writer, Creator. Episode Host: Angela  In this episode of Begin, Build, Blossom, we chat with the remarkable Britny Virginia, an international poet, writer, workshop facilitator, and creative producer whose work is rooted in disability, culture, and faith. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Britny has transformed her lived experience into a powerful creative engine, using storytelling to inspire confidence and shift perspectives. Her artistic portfolio spans poetry, theatre, and film. Her short film “Dancing Shoes” was selected for the London International Film Festival, and her play “Up In The Mango Trees” was featured in the Bloomsbury Festival and shortlisted for the Women’s Playwriting Prize 2025. In this conversation we explored Britny’s creative journey and the business behind building a life in the arts, including: How living with Cerebral Palsy has shaped her voice, resilience, and artistic lens;Finding confidence through creativity & helping others discover their own;Storytelling as advocacy, healing, and cultural connection;Navigating the creative industry as a disabled person, and the importance of representation;Faith as a grounding force in her work and life; andRedefining  or even replacing  the word “success”, moving away from external validation and toward purpose, impact, and joy. Follow Britny's journey via the links below: Website: Writer | Britny Virginia Instagram: britnyvirginia🇱🇨🇱🇨 (@britnyvirginiaa) Email: britnyvirginiaa@gmail.com

    44 min
  5. How to Build and Scale with Purpose - A conversation with Dr. Carlton Brown — Entrepreneur, Consultant, Speaker & Author

    APR 2

    How to Build and Scale with Purpose - A conversation with Dr. Carlton Brown — Entrepreneur, Consultant, Speaker & Author

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Dr. Carlton Brown — Entrepreneur, Consultant, Speaker & Author Episode Host: Angela  In this episode of Begin Build Blossom, we sit down with Dr. Carlton Brown a dynamic thought leader, entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and author whose work spans business strategy, leadership development, and transformational thinking. Dr. Brown brings a rare blend of academic insight, lived entrepreneurial experience, and creative vision. His journey is marked by resilience, reinvention, and a deep commitment to helping individuals and organisations unlock their potential. His efforts are rooted in culture, which stems from his Jamaican heritage. He has launched and scaled businesses, advised leaders, and is author of the thought‑provoking book "The Race Paradox: Why Organisations Fail On Race". Dr. Brown has dedicated his career to empowering others to lead with clarity and intention. In our conversation, we explore the mindset behind sustainable entrepreneurship, the realities of building a business in today’s landscape, and the personal philosophies that have shaped his path. Whether you’re at the beginning of your business journey or looking to elevate your next chapter, this episode offers grounded wisdom and practical inspiration. We spoke about:  Dr. Brown’s entrepreneurial beginnings and early influencesThe mindset required to build a sustainable businessHow creativity fuels innovation and leadershipThe role of personal development in business successNavigating challenges, setbacks, and reinventionAdvice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leadersBooks Mentioned:  ​The Magic of Thinking Big by David J Schwartz​It's Possible by Les Brown Outliers by Malcom Gladwell Tipping point by Malcolm Gladwell Bounce by Matthew Syed The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Jeremy Irons, et al.How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Atomic Habits by James Clear To connect with Dr. Brown and associated brands:  The Black Business Conference - The UK Black Business Entrepreneurs Conference Aspire Consultancy - Home | Aspire Marshal and Brown - Marshall & Brown LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/carltonbrown1

    47 min

  6. MAR 26

    The Journey - Mid‑Season Reflections with Angela and Clarita

    Send us Fan Mail We’ve reached the midway point of Season 3, and we’re taking a moment to pause and reflect. In this episode, Angela and Clarita share a lighthearted yet thoughtful conversation about the journey so far. We look back on the incredible guests we’ve learned from, the impact the podcast is having, and the real challenges that come with showing up consistently. This mid‑season check‑in offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at what it takes to keep building despite limitations and setbacks. We also share feedback from listeners and explore why creating this space continues to matter. This episode is an open invitation to the community to help shape what comes next. We’d love to hear: What’s been resonatingWhat you want more ofWho you’d love to hear on the podcastQuestions you’d like us to ask future guestsLet’s continue building the kind of community we all need on this journey. Follow on Instagram: @beginbuildblossom

    47 min
  7. Humble Beginnings, Global Impact: How Simmone Frederick Is Building a Wellness Movement

    MAR 19

    Humble Beginnings, Global Impact: How Simmone Frederick Is Building a Wellness Movement

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Simmone Frederick Episode Host: Angela  In this episode of Begin Build Blossom, we sit down with Simmone, the founder of two wellness-focused brands, Fresh Squeeze, an all-natural, sugar-free cold-pressed juice company and AUERA, a clean, natural facial care line. Simmone’s entrepreneurial journey began at a young age, driven by creativity, independence, and a desire to support herself through school. Over time, she explored multiple ventures, each one helping her refine her vision and align with her deeper purpose. Today, she is building more than just businesses—she’s creating a global movement centred on health, wellness, and self-acceptance. Her mission is to empower people to make healthier choices and feel confident in their own skin, inside and out.  You’ll Learn How Simmone early side hustles into purpose-driven businessesThe inspiration behind launching Fresh Squeeze and AUERAHow to recognise and trust your internal passionWhy true motivation goes deeper than money or successWhat it really takes to build a brand with impactKey Takeaways Every step of your journey shapes your purposePassion becomes clearer through action, not overthinkingBuilding a business rooted in meaning creates longer-lasting impactConnect & Follow Follow Simmone’s journey and explore her brands: AUERA Instagram: AUERA (@aueraskin.lc) Email: aueraskin@gmail.com Fresh Squeeze  Instagram: Fresh Squeeze 🍋🍍🍏🍐🥭🥝 (@freshsqueezejuices)  Email: freshsqueezejuice4you@gmail.com

    37 min
  8. Preparing for Life After Work: The Emotional Side of Retirement with MORO Founder Jhanell Biggs

    MAR 12

    Preparing for Life After Work: The Emotional Side of Retirement with MORO Founder Jhanell Biggs

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Jhanell Biggs Episode Host: Clarita  In this episode of Begin, Build, Blossom, we sit down with Jhanell Biggs, Founder and CEO of MORO. Jhanell started MORO after recognizing an important gap in how we prepare for retirement. While financial planning is often a major focus, she realized that money is only part of the equation. Many people reach retirement financially prepared but emotionally unprepared for the lifestyle change that comes with leaving the workforce. Through MORO, Jhanell provides non-financial retirement lifestyle coaching, helping individuals think through the personal, emotional, and identity shifts that can come with retirement. Her work focuses on helping people transition into this next chapter with clarity, purpose, and a vision for the quality of life they want to create. During our conversation, Jhanell shares: What led her to start MORO and the gap she saw in traditional retirement planningWhy the non-financial side of retirement is often overlookedThe kinds of lifestyle questions people should consider before retiringWhat working with MORO can look like for individuals preparing for retirementHer vision to partner with corporations and organizations to help employees prepare for the emotional and lifestyle aspects of retirement, not just the financial onesThis conversation is a thoughtful look at what it means to transition into retirement and how preparing for life after work goes beyond just numbers. Learn more about Jhanell’s work at:  https://www.trymoro.com #RetirementPlanning #LifeAfterWork #RetirementLifestyle

    43 min
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About

Welcome to 'Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey' – the podcast that shares wisdom and support from entrepreneurs. Join me as we explore valuable insights, resources, and motivation to inspire your own venture. Let's build a supportive community together.What sets this podcast apart? This podcast is not just about stories but about providing support and a sense of community while we all figure out Beginning, Building or Blossoming in the business world.The episodes are designed to guide us through the different stages of the entrepreneurial journey – Beginning, Building and Blossoming. In each episode, we'll focus on one or all of these crucial phases, ensuring that we all get practical tips and insights that we can apply to our own business.First up, the "Begin" segment. We'll explore the initial steps of beginning a business. From idea generation to crafting a business plan, we'll cover it all. As the host - I'll be asking questions that resonate with anyone contemplating the entrepreneurial leap, giving all of us the tools to turn our vision into a reality.Next, we move on to the "Build" section. Scaling a business is a delicate art, and we'll uncover strategies to take our enterprises to new heights. Whether anyone is looking to expand their team, explore new markets, or enhance their product line, our guests will share their experiences and advice to help us scale effectively.And finally, we'll tackle the "Blossom" phase. Success means different things to different people, and we'll explore various definitions of success in the business world. From achieving financial milestones to making a positive impact on our community, our conversations will inspire you to define and achieve each individual's version of success.Remember, our journey starts here, but it doesn't end here. Let's do this together!

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  • Creator
    Co-Hosts: Angela & Clarita - A CME Accounting LLC Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey
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    Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey