Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey

Co-Hosts: Angela & Clarita - A CME Accounting LLC Podcast

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

    3D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. Letting Go of Fear and Limiting Beliefs | Author, Photographer, International Speaker & Breakthrough Coach Beth Brown

    MAR 5

    Letting Go of Fear and Limiting Beliefs | Author, Photographer, International Speaker & Breakthrough Coach Beth Brown

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Beth Brown Host: Clarita  Today’s guest is Beth Brown; a bestselling author, breakthrough coach, international speaker, and professional photographer. She is also a Women Empowerment Award recipient. As a speaker and workshop facilitator, Beth works with women and men to move away from limiting and disillusioned belief systems and begin shining their brightest light. Her work focuses on helping people reconnect with who they truly are, beyond the stories they may have carried for years. Beth openly shares her journey of healing after sexual assault and heartbreak in order to inspire others on their own healing and self-discovery paths. Through her work, she helps individuals sever connections with pain, unforgiveness, and fear allowing them to redefine themselves as lovable, worthy, and powerful. Beth’s faith-driven approach is what makes her work deeply transformational, offering both practical guidance and spiritual grounding for those seeking healing and growth. What We Talk About in This Episode • Beth’s early years as a photographer and how she continues to refine her craft  • What first drew her to photography, coaching, and public speaking  • What pivoting looks like throughout an entrepreneurial journey  • Being honest about personal limitations as an entrepreneur  • How business owners can continue to grow and develop while staying aligned with their purpose Connect with Beth Brown Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/levelupwithbeth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@levelupwithbeth Website: https://levelupwithbeth.com TEDx Talk https://youtu.be/-5g742hvsLM?feature=shared  #BeginBuildBlossom #EntrepreneurJourney #PurposeDrivenBusiness #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset  #PersonalGrowth  #HealingJourney  #OvercomingFear

    44 min
  6. From Nanny to Founder: Bringing Calm to Weddings with The Wedding Nanny NYC

    FEB 26

    From Nanny to Founder: Bringing Calm to Weddings with The Wedding Nanny NYC

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Sandra Weir Host: Clarita  Founded by Sandra Weir, The Wedding Nanny NYC provides tailored childcare services for weddings and special events. Today on Begin, Build, Blossom: Your Business Journey, we’re joined by Sandra, the founder behind a service shaped by over 10 years as a professional nanny and designed to bring calm, care, and joy to one of life’s biggest celebrations. Her clients describe her work best: she creates a safe, joyful, and seamless childcare experience, keeping kids happy and supported so adults can relax and fully enjoy the day. In essence, she brings calm and helps celebrations flow with professionalism, warmth, and intention. This conversation is about recognizing a need, trusting your experience, and building something meaningful that truly serves families. What We Talked About: Recognizing and fulfilling a need and the practical steps Sandra took to bring the idea to lifeThe transition from full-time employee to full-time entrepreneurGrowing and leading a teamThe challenges that come with doing something new or differentHow networking led to collaborations and new opportunitiesWhat success means to her, beyond revenueFor anyone who has ever thought, “There’s a need here…” but wasn’t sure what to do next, this episode is for you. Sandra shows us what it looks like to: Build from experienceServe with intentionStep into leadershipCreate a business that supports both families and celebrationsIt’s a reminder that sometimes your business idea is already in your hands, you just have to give it structure and space to grow. Connect with Sandra: Website: https://www.theweddingnannynyc.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theweddingnannynyc Email: theweddingnannyny@gmail.com

    39 min
  7. How to Build the Business Behind Your Music and Succeed: Insights from Ronald "Boo" Hinkson

    FEB 20

    How to Build the Business Behind Your Music and Succeed: Insights from Ronald "Boo" Hinkson

    Send us Fan Mail Happy 47th Anniversary of Independence to the Government and People of Saint Lucia! In observance of Saint Lucia's Independence Anniversary this episode features a legendary Saint Lucian.  Guest:  Ronald “Boo” Hinkson - Master Guitarist, Musician & Entrepreneur  Episode Host: Angela  In this episode, we sit down with Ronald “Boo” Hinkson, legendary Saint Lucian guitarist, composer, and cultural icon for an insightful conversation about artistry, discipline, and the business of building a musical career. Boo explored and reflected on his early beginnings, the formation of the Tru Tones, the global stages he has graced, and the principles that have guided him through decades of success. Some of What We Covered The importance of being a good human being, even in the face of challengesGrowing up in a deeply musical family and how music found himThe origins of “Boo” and the early spark that shaped his identityThe formation of the Tru Tones and the story behind the nameBecoming a voting member of the Grammy AcademyPerforming at Super Bowl XIII and opening for major artists like George BensonThe power of discipline and how it informs every choice he makesHis commitment to supporting young musicians and exposing them to opportunities beyond their usual environmentsUnderstanding music as a business and how creatives can make it work for themWhy building the right team (lawyer, publisher, manager, image consultant, agent) determines the level of success a creative can achieveWhy everything he does is “Saint Lucia first”The value of reading widely and how it shapes his understanding of the worldBooks Mentioned The Mis Education of the Negro by Carter G. WoodsonWinners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World by Anand GiridharadasThe Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi KleinThe Return of Ordinary Capitalism by Nicholas XenosCritique of Pure Reason by Immanuel KantKey Takeaways Discipline is a superpower that shapes your craft, your choices, and your longevityCreativity thrives when supported by structure, strategy, and the right teamYour roots can be your greatest asset in building a global identityMentorship is essential for sustaining a creative ecosystemReading widely expands your worldview and deepens your artistryFollow and connect with Boo:  Website: https://rbhinkson.com Instagram: @boo.hinkson Facebook: @ronald.hinkson.1

    1h 37m

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!