STL Hustle Insider

H Cortez Springer
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship

STL Hustle Insider is the podcast spotlighting the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, and community builders moving St. Louis forward. Hosted by Cortez Hustle, this show goes behind the scenes with local entrepreneurs, small business owners, community leaders, artists, organizers, and everyday builders who are creating impact across the city. Each episode explores the story behind the work, the St. Louis connection, the lessons learned along the way, and the ways the community can support what is being built. This is more than a podcast. STL Hustle Insider is a local media platform created to document the real hustle, real impact, and real stories shaping St. Louis from the inside out. Subscribe, share, and nominate someone we should feature. STL Hustle Insider The people, businesses, and movements building St. Louis.

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    Rahn Williams on Food Safety, Brand Standards, and Building Black Excellence Through Systems

    Rahn Williams on Food Safety, Brand Standards, and Building Black Excellence Through Systems A good business does not grow by accident. It grows when the systems, standards, people, and leadership are strong enough to operate beyond the owner. In this episode of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Rahn Williams, founder of Stokeswill Consulting, for a conversation about food safety, restaurant operations, brand standards, Black excellence, community networking, and the systems that help businesses grow. Rahn shares his St. Louis story, from growing up with chronic allergies and asthma, using creativity as an outlet, graduating from Hazelwood East, attending Southeast Missouri State, and learning from early experiences that shaped his worldview. The conversation then moves into business, where Rahn explains how working with his father in McDonald’s operations helped him understand systems, leadership, people, and the difference between working in a business and working on a business. Today, through Stokeswill Consulting, he helps food service entrepreneurs, restaurants, and community partners strengthen operations, meet food safety requirements, improve brand standards, and build toward growth. In This Episode Cortez and Rahn talk about: Who Rahn Williams isStokeswill Consulting and the work Rahn doesGrowing up in St. Louis and graduating from Hazelwood EastLiving with chronic allergies and asthmaCreativity as an escape through writing, short stories, drawing, poetry, and hip-hopTouring as a spoken word artist and releasing musicHow his mother helped him stay on track in school despite missing days because of illnessAttending Southeast Missouri State in Cape GirardeauExperiencing racism in North County and Southern MissouriHazelwood East, Black awareness, and the Black Awareness Support GroupHow exposure to African students helped expand Rahn’s worldviewWorking for his father at McDonald’sWhy he did not appreciate restaurant work at firstLearning leadership through managementSeeing McDonald’s from a district-manager-level viewWhy business is about leadership and peopleHow McDonald’s taught him the power of systemsWhy restaurant owners need systems that work when they are not thereRahn’s role as a ServSafe instructor and proctorFood handler, food manager, and alcohol certificationWhy certification is only one part of real food safetyWhat customers should look for when entering a restaurantWhy smaller restaurants need checks and balancesWhy outside evaluations can help restaurant owners improve and growThe role of brand standards in customer experienceParking lots, windows, greetings, uniforms, order accuracy, service, restrooms, and timingWhy brand standards are more than food safetyRahn’s Top Five STL restaurant picksStokeswill Community Partners Networking EventRahn’s business collective and community partnershipsHow to connect with Stokeswill ConsultingKey Takeaways Systems allow a business to operate even when the owner is not physically present.Food safety certification matters, but the real work is putting food safety into daily practice.Restaurant growth requires checks, balances, evaluations, training, leadership, and accountability.Owners should not be trapped in every operational role forever. Their job is to build, expand, and improve the business.Brand standards begin before a customer ever tastes the food.Clean windows, parking lots, greetings, uniforms, restrooms, order accuracy, and service timing all shape the customer experience.Black excellence in business is not just talent or ambition. It is standards, systems, consistency, leadership, and community connection.Community partnerships can help entrepreneurs share resources, build networks, and create more opportunities together.Featured Guest Rahn WilliamsFounder, Stokeswill ConsultingServSafe Instructor / ProctorFood Safety, Brand Standards, and Restaurant Operations Consultant Rahn Williams is a St. Louis native, Hazelwood East graduate, creative, spoken word artist, hip-hop artist, consultant, and founder of Stokeswill Consulting. Through Stokeswill Consulting, Rahn helps food service businesses and entrepreneurs strengthen food safety practices, complete certifications, improve operations, evaluate brand standards, and build systems that support growth. Guest Links Stokeswill Consulting: https://stokeswill.comPhone: 314-348-8833Resources Mentioned Stokeswill ConsultingServSafeServSafe Food HandlerServSafe ManagerServSafe AlcoholMcDonald’sMcDonald’s UniversitySoutheast Missouri State University / SEMOHazelwood East High SchoolGranemann Elementary SchoolVocational RehabilitationBlack Awareness Support GroupSoul Vi Poetry CollectiveKathy’s KitchenElicious RestaurantSt. Louis Fish & ChickenChicago Fish & ChickenMiami GrillStokeswill Community Partners Networking EventUpward Bound100 Black MenSLU / Saint Louis UniversityJust FiveCustom Merchandise MarketsShot by Derrick100 American DreamsHarvest Time Farms and FellowshipEpisode Sponsors STL Virtual Resource Center https://stlouishustleinsider.com/vrc Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit:https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor Music Attribution Music featured during the break: https://the3kngz.bandcamp.com/track/see-me-prod-by-cry-story Chapters Note: Chapter timestamps are estimated and capped under the full 45-minute show length, including intro, outro, and commercials. Please adjust to match the final edited audio export. 00:00 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider00:45 - Who is Rahn Williams?01:30 - Stokeswill Consulting and Rahn’s St. Louis roots02:30 - Growing up with allergies, asthma, and creativity04:30 - Writing, poetry, hip-hop, and creative escape06:00 - Hazelwood East and Black awareness08:00 - SEMO, college life, and growing up10:00 - Racism, standing up, and life lessons13:00 - Break and music from Rahn Williams14:00 - Transitioning into business15:00 - Working in his father’s McDonald’s17:00 - Learning leadership and people management19:00 - McDonald’s systems and business operations21:00 - Stokeswill Consulting and ServSafe training23:00 - Food safety certification and daily practice25:00 - What to look for before eating at a restaurant27:00 - Why mom-and-pop restaurants need checks and balances29:00 - Getting owners out of the store31:00 - Brand standards and customer experience34:00 - Why systems support online branding36:00 - Rahn’s Top Five STL restaurants38:00 - Stokeswill Community Partners Networking Event41:00 - Just Five and community business shoutouts43:00 - How to connect with Rahn Williams44:30 - Closing words from Cortez Hustle About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is a St. Louis podcast and local media platform hosted by Cortez Hustle and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. The show spotl...

    Rahn Williams on Food Safety, Brand Standards, and Building Black Excellence Through Systems

  2. Aug 13

    Osunlade on Yoruba Records, Afro House, AI & Protecting the Soul of Music

    Osunlade joins STL Hustle Insider for a wide-ranging conversation about music, St. Louis, ownership, soul, and creative evolution. He talks about growing up in North St. Louis, being adopted and raised as an only child, finding music as his outlet, learning piano at seven, attending Beaumont, playing in bands, being influenced by funk and Prince, and eventually leaving St. Louis for Los Angeles. Osunlade also discusses working with major artists, moving through the traditional music industry, realizing that major-label pressure was pulling him away from his own sound, becoming a Yoruba priest, launching Yoruba Records, and building a label rooted in ancestral reverence, spirituality, soul, and independent ownership. The episode also explores AI in music, stem separation, remixes, DJ culture, how technology is changing music, and why human musicianship, mistakes, live instruments, and emotional interpretation still matter. Featured Guest OsunladeFounder, Yoruba RecordsMusician, Producer, DJ, Artist, and Creative Osunlade is a St. Louis-born musician, producer, DJ, artist, and founder of Yoruba Records, a label founded in 1999 specializing in deep soulful house. His career has taken him from North St. Louis to Los Angeles, New York, London, Milan, Croatia, Australia, and stages around the world. Through Yoruba Records and his own creative work, Osunlade has helped shape and influence the sound and movement now widely connected to Afro House, soulful house, spiritual music, and global dance culture. Guest Links Yoruba Records on Bandcamp: https://yorubarecords.bandcamp.comYoruba Soul on Bandcamp: https://yorubasoul.bandcamp.comInstagram: @yorubasoulofficialTikTok: @yorubasoulofficialTwitch: Yoruba Soul TVMixedCloud: Search “Osunlade”Streaming platforms: Search “Osunlade”Upcoming album: Neon Box Documentary: Big Giant Wave About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is a St. Louis podcast and local media platform hosted by Cortez Hustle and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. The show spotlights the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, leaders, entrepreneurs, and movements building St. Louis from the inside out. Through real conversations and local storytelling, STL Hustle Insider brings attention to the builders, visionaries, and community movers shaping the future of the region. Subscribe, recommend a guest, sponsor the show, or stay connected at:https://stlhustleinsider.com Legal Disclaimer STL Hustle Insider is produced and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. All show content, including video, audio, graphics, branding, and related media, is copyrighted property of iHustle Media Group LLC unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, sponsors, advertisers, or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or official position of iHustle Media Group LLC, STL Hustle Insider, its partners, affiliates, or sponsors. Content shared on this show is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, medical, mental health, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions based on anything discussed. Mentions, interviews, sponsorships, advertisements, products, services, events, or resources featured on STL Hustle Insider do not automatically constitute an endorsement, guarantee, or warranty by iHustle Media Group LLC. By watching, listening to, sharing, or engaging with STL Hustle Insider content, you acknowledge that iHustle Media Group LLC is not responsible for any actions, decisions, outcomes, or results based on the information presented. © iHustle Media Group LLC. All rights reserved.

    Osunlade on Yoruba Records, Afro House, AI & Protecting the Soul of Music

  3. Aug 6

    Smooth 1432 on Cornhole, Brotherhood, Mental Health, and Building Safe Spaces for Men

    Sometimes the game is not really the game. In this special STL Hustle Insider spotlight episode, Cortez Hustle sits down with four men connected through Smooth 1432, a collective using cornhole, conversation, mentorship, education, therapy, and brotherhood to create safe spaces for men and young people across the St. Louis region. This episode features Mike Elliott, Earl Docket, Jay McDaniels, and Josh Gilliam. Each man brings his own brand, profession, and calling to the table, but together they represent a larger movement: men showing up for other men, young people, families, schools, and communities. Through Smooth 1432, Cornhole with Smooth, Fly Beyond Limits, The Breakfast Club, Vertical Therapy LLC, and 1432 The Podcast, this group is using something unexpected — cornhole — as a conversation starter for deeper topics like mental health, marriage, fatherhood, depression, trauma, purpose, education, mentorship, and community connection. Earl Docket shares his work as an educator, coach, founder of Fly Beyond Limits, and creator of The Breakfast Club, a school-based mentorship effort focused on young Black male students, mental health, behavior, attendance, and self-worth. Jay McDaniels, founder of Cornhole with Smooth, explains how he discovered cornhole during COVID, why he is introducing the sport to inner-city youth, and how cornhole can open doors to confidence, scholarship opportunities, discipline, and purpose. Josh Gilliam, owner of Vertical Therapy LLC, talks about therapy, men’s mental health, confidentiality, trauma, and the importance of creating safe spaces where men and young people can process what they are carrying. Together, these conversations show how Smooth 1432 is building something bigger than an event. It is a movement of men using play, purpose, and presence to reach the community. In This Episode Cortez talks with the Smooth 1432 collective about: What Smooth 1432 is and why it existsCreating safe spaces for men to connect, talk, and try something differentHow cornhole became a tool for community engagementWhy men need spaces outside of work, home, and marriage where they can be honestThe pressure of being the only Black man in professional environmentsWearing a “mask” in certain spaces and needing time to decompressMarriage, communication, and growing together as a coupleThe role of 1432 The Podcast in conversations around marriage and men’s livesEarl Docket’s work as an educator and coachFly Beyond Limits and the meaning of “First Love Yourself”Depression, mental health, and the realities facing young peopleThe Breakfast Club and mentoring young Black males in schoolReducing suspensions, referrals, and chronic absence through intentional supportWhy parents should not be afraid of IEPs and individualized supportThe importance of consistency at homeJay McDaniels’ journey from traditional sports to cornholeCornhole with Smooth and bringing the game into schoolsWhy cornhole is mental, strategic, and accessibleScholarship opportunities and nontraditional sports pathwaysUsing cornhole as a conversation starter around purpose and identityJosh Gilliam’s work through Vertical Therapy LLCWhy men need therapy and confidential spaces to talkHow trauma affects children and young peopleWhy therapy helps people stop dancing around the issue and address the real thingSmooth 1432’s larger mission around men, youth, mental health, and communityKey Takeaways Cornhole may be the activity, but connection is the mission.Men need safe spaces where they can talk honestly without judgment.Being the only Black man in a professional environment can create pressure, exhaustion, and emotional weight that often goes unseen.Marriage requires more than telling people to communicate. Couples have to learn how to communicate as they grow and change.Young people need adults who will listen to what they need, not just tell them what they need.IEPs and educational supports should not be treated with shame. They can help children receive the individualized support they need to succeed.Cornhole gives youth another pathway to confidence, teamwork, discipline, competition, and even scholarship opportunities.Therapy is not weakness. It is a confidential space where men and young people can process trauma, loss, development, and life.Smooth 1432 is showing that creative intervention can meet men and young people through something simple, then open the door to deeper conversations.Featured Guests Mike ElliottSmooth 1432 / 1432 The Podcast Mike Elliott is part of Smooth 1432 and 1432 The Podcast. His work centers on creating spaces where men, especially married men and Black men navigating professional environments, can connect, talk, and build community. Earl DocketFounder, Fly Beyond LimitsEducator and Coach Earl Docket, also known by many young people as Coach Docket, is an educator entering his 23rd year in education. He serves at KIPP Inspire Academy and is the founder of Fly Beyond Limits, which stands for First Love Yourself Mentorship and Leadership. He also leads The Breakfast Club, a mentorship effort focused on supporting young Black male students. Jay McDanielsFounder, Cornhole with Smooth Jay McDaniels is the founder of Cornhole with Smooth LLC, a podcast and brand using cornhole to reach youth and community members in a new way. Through the Cornhole with Smooth Youth Academy, Jay is introducing the game to schools and using it as a tool for purpose, confidence, mental focus, and opportunity. Josh GilliamOwner, Vertical Therapy LLCLicensed Professional Counselor Josh Gilliam is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Vertical Therapy LLC. His work focuses on helping men and young people process trauma, loss, life development, emotional struggles, and the internal battles people often carry in silence. Guest Links Smooth 1432: [Add official website link]Smooth 1432 Instagram: [Add link]Smooth 1432 YouTube: [Add link]1432 The Podcast: [Add link]1432 The Podcast Instagram: [Add link]1432 The Podcast TikTok: [Add link]1432 The Podcast YouTube: [Add link]Cornhole with Smooth Email: cornholewithsmooth@gmail.comCornhole with Smooth Facebook: [Add link]Cornhole with Smooth Instagram: [Add link]Cornhole with Smooth TikTok: [Add link]Fly Beyond Limits: [Add link]Earl Docket Instagram: [Add link]Earl Docket Facebook: [Add link]Fly Beyond Limits Email: [Confirm full email address]Vertical Therapy LLC Instagram: [Add link]Josh Gilliam / Vertical Therapy website: [Add link] Resources Mentioned Smooth 14321432 The PodcastCornhole with SmoothCornhole with Smooth Youth AcademyFly Beyond LimitsThe Breakfast ClubVertical Therapy LLCNAMI St. LouisKIPP Inspire AcademyJob CorpsSt. Louis Virtual Resource CenterSTL Virtual Resource CenterCornholeIEPs / Individualized Education PlansYouth mentorshipMen’s mental healthBlack male mental healthMarriage and communicationYouth mental healthEpisode Sponsors St. Louis...

    Smooth 1432 on Cornhole, Brotherhood, Mental Health, and Building Safe Spaces for Men

  4. Jul 30

    Devon Moody on The 89th Collective, Community-Rooted Innovation, and East St. Louis Ownership Ep. 6

    What happens when someone stops waiting for community to be built somewhere else and decides to bring the resources home? In Episode 6 of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Devon Moody, founder of The 89th Collective, for a conversation about East St. Louis, small business, family legacy, motherhood, village-building, ownership, innovation, and creating space for people who need to know they belong. Devon shares how growing up as the youngest of ten, the daughter of a cobbler and a cosmetologist, shaped her understanding of entrepreneurship from an early age. Small business did not just inspire her. It helped pay for her life, sent her to college, and taught her how deeply local enterprise can impact a family and a community. This episode is for entrepreneurs, community builders, creatives, consultants, business owners, parents, students, and anyone who believes innovation does not have to be disconnected from the neighborhood. It can be rooted in it.    In This Episode Cortez and Devon talk about: Who Devon Moody is beyond the business titleGrowing up as the youngest of ten with seven older brothersBeing raised by a cobbler, a cosmetologist, and a family of entrepreneursHow small business paid for Devon’s life and opened doors for herLessons from her father, mother, and grandmotherTreating everybody with dignity, regardless of titleEast St. Louis pride, East Boogie, and the City of ChampionsStarting a candy store at 10 years oldTurning skills into opportunities through clothes, hair, papers, taxes, and serviceAttending the University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignNavigating a predominantly white institution as a Black womanThe importance of the “Black House,” CBSU, and safe community spaces on campusRelaunching a student retention program and seeing mentees complete degreesBecoming pregnant senior year and still finishing schoolWhy village is everything, but village must be reciprocalAsking for help without shameThe origins of The 89th CollectiveWhy timing mattered for opening a co-working and community business spaceOpening The 89th Collective on 618 Day in 2025Serving thousands of people across generations in the first yearWhy Devon calls The 89th Collective a legacy launch padHonoring her grandmother as the “original CEO mom”What community-rooted innovation meansWhy innovation can be as simple as improving a process or solving a problemWhy Black entrepreneurs should not only create, but ownMoving from fear to ownershipWhy it is okay to serve community and build wealthDevon’s Top Five All ESTL recommendationsHer final word to people who think they do not belong   Featured Guest Devon MoodyFounder, The 89th Collective Devin Moody is a native of East St. Louis, Illinois, a mother, daughter, consultant, community builder, and founder of The 89th Collective. Her work is rooted in helping people improve their quality of life by learning how to monetize their gifts, build legitimate businesses, access resources, and connect with community. Through The 89th Collective, Devin is building a legacy launch pad for entrepreneurs, creatives, youth, business owners, and community members in East St. Louis and the surrounding region. Guest Links The 89th Collective: https://the89thcollective.comThe 89th Collective on Facebook: @the89thcollective  Episode Sponsors The 89th Collective This episode was recorded at The 89th Collective Studios in East St. Louis, Illinois. The 89th Collective supports entrepreneurs and business owners with space for classes and workshops, business mailbox services, community connections, networking, memberships, and access to resources. Learn more at:https://the89thcollective.com Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit:https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor     Music Attribution Break music mentioned in this episode: “Different This Time” by LateefListen at:https://LateefLive.com    00:00 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider00:34 - Who is Devin Moody?01:21 - Growing up in East St. Louis01:42 - Youngest of ten and daughter of entrepreneurs02:42 - Business lessons from family03:10 - Treat everybody with dignity04:41 - Growing up with older siblings06:05 - East St. Louis, East Boogie, and City of Champions06:45 - Starting a candy store at 1007:29 - East St. Louis High School and student life08:41 - University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign09:29 - Navigating a PWI as a Black woman10:18 - The Black House, CBSU, and safe spaces12:29 - Student retention and the power of community13:53 - Becoming pregnant senior year16:11 - Building a village as a college student17:56 - Asking for help without shame20:14 - Break and music from Latif21:00 - Welcome back from The 89th Collective Studios21:45 - Why East St. Louis needed this ecosystem22:12 - The early vision for a co-working space23:30 - Timing, obedience, and bringing resources home24:20 - Opening The 89th Collective on 618 Day25:28 - Serving thousands of people across generations26:19 - Gratitude after the first year26:38 - Honoring Devin’s grandmother and the original CEO mom28:10 - Community-rooted innovation29:19 - Ownership, culture, and Black entrepreneurship30:00 - Serving community and building wealth31:45 - Moving out of fear and into legitimacy32:29 - Owning the systems around what we create33:44 - Devin’s Top Five All ESTL34:09 - Personal Touch Boutique35:00 - Delicious food truck35:30 - Eastside Chop Suey and St. Louis-style rice36:53 - Big Mama’s BBQ37:26 - Skate King / Skate City38:17 - Freestyle: You belong39:25 - The 89th Collective address and contact40:25 - Closing words from Cortez Hustle About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is a St. Louis podcast and local media platform hosted by Cortez Hustle and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. The show spotlights the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, leaders, entrepreneurs, and movements building St. Louis from the inside out. Through real conversations and local storytelling, STL Hustle Insider brings attention to the builders, visionaries, and community movers shaping the future of the region. Subscribe, recommend a guest, sponsor the show, or stay connected at:https://stlhustleinsider.com Legal Disclaimer STL Hustle Insider is produced and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. All show content, including video, audio, graphics, branding, and related media, is copyrighted property of iHustle Media Group LLC unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, sponsors, advertisers, or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or official position of iHustle Media Group LLC, STL Hustle Insider, its partners, affiliates, or sponsors. Content shared on this show is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, me...

    Devon Moody on The 89th Collective, Community-Rooted Innovation, and East St. Louis Ownership Ep. 6

  5. Jul 23

    Carla Reid on Real Estate, Tax Sales, and Building Community Brick by Brick

    Carla Reid on Real Estate, Tax Sales, and Building Community Brick by Brick Real estate is not just about property. In the right hands, it can become a tool for legacy, stability, community repair, and generational opportunity. In Episode 5 of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Carla Reid, founder of Brick X Brick Collective, for a powerful conversation about motherhood, social work, real estate investing, tax sales, ethical development, and what it means to build community with intention. Carla shares her journey from growing up in St. Louis, becoming a mother at 15, finishing school alongside her daughter years later, working in social services, managing property for her mother, and eventually stepping into real estate investing for herself. This episode is for anyone interested in real estate, community development, legacy building, affordable housing, tax sale education, and the belief that everyday people can learn the game and build something that lasts. In This Episode Cortez and Carla talk about: Who Carla Reid is beyond the business titleHer identity as a mother, daughter, community champion, social worker, investor, and developerGrowing up in the West End of St. Louis CityBeing raised by parents who worked in social work and nursingAttending Oakville Senior High through the desegregation programBecoming a mother at 15How shame, responsibility, support, and resilience shaped her journeyWhat parents can do when a young person’s life takes an unexpected turnThe importance of support systems for young mothersHow Carla’s father taught her the meaning of community through family fish friesWhy community starts at homeWorking full-time in social work while continuing schoolCarla and her daughter both graduating in 2018How her mother’s real estate decision introduced her to property managementManaging a four-family property and building relationships with tenantsWhy Carla stopped managing properties for some out-of-state investorsChoosing to invest with integrity and provide quality housingHow Carla discovered tax sale investingThe mindset shift required to become a real estate investorThe difference between St. Louis City tax deed sales and St. Louis County tax lien salesWhy Carla used her own money to acquire but borrowed money to renovateHer first tax sale property, renovation, refinance, and equity strategyHow social work influenced the way she thought about families affected by tax salesTax sale overages and why families need to understand what may be owed to themThe setup for Brick X Brick Collective and helping everyday people understand real estateKey Takeaways A difficult beginning does not define the rest of your life.Strong support systems can change the future for young parents and their children.Community is not just a public idea. It starts with how families care for, introduce, and support one another.Social work and real estate may seem separate, but Carla’s story shows how both can be rooted in service.Real estate investing can be done with integrity when the goal includes quality housing and community impact.Tax sales can be a legitimate acquisition strategy, but they require education, patience, research, risk awareness, and the right professional support.Being prepared matters. Opportunity is only useful when you are in position to act on it.Legacy building often starts with one property, one decision, and one willingness to learn.Carla’s social worker mindset pushed her to think not only about the investor, but also about families affected by the tax sale process.Featured Guest Carla ReidFounder, Brick X Brick Collective Carla Reid is a mother, daughter, community champion, social worker, investor, developer, and founder of Brick X Brick Collective. Rooted in St. Louis, Carla brings together her background in social work, property management, real estate investing, and community advocacy to help people better understand real estate, tax sales, ownership, development, and legacy building. Guest Links Brick X Brick Collective: FacebookReid & Co. Properties: WebsiteCarla Reid on Facebook: ProfileBrick X Brick Collective registration or resource link: Skool CommunityResources Mentioned Brick X Brick CollectiveSTL Virtual Resource CenterSt. Louis Community CollegeUniversity of Missouri–St. Louis / UMSLFlorida A&M UniversitySt. Louis City Juvenile Detention CenterMissouri social services / case managementSt. Louis City tax deed saleSt. Louis County tax lien saleNorth Point neighborhoodJustine PetersonInvest STLUMSL Neighborhood Leadership FellowsTax sale overagesLatifLive.comEpisode Sponsors STL Virtual Resource Center This episode was recorded at the STL Virtual Resource Center Studios in St. Louis, Missouri. The STL Virtual Resource Center is designed to help St. Louis area entrepreneurs find resources in one place, including funding resources, networking events, co-working spaces, business development support, and other tools to help move their businesses forward. Sign up or learn more:  https://ihustlemg.com/vrc Relentless Defensive Firearm Academy Social Lead Web by iHustle Media Group Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit: https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor Music Attribution Break music mentioned in this episode: “Different This Time” by LateefListen at: https://LateefLive.com Chapters Note: Chapter timestamps are approximate and based on the transcript provided. Please adjust to match the final edited audio export. 00:00 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider00:28 - Who is Carla Reid?01:27 - Growing up in the West End of St. Louis City01:54 - Oakville, the desegregation program, and high school02:32 - Becoming a mother at 1503:40 - Finding out she was in labor06:01 - Encouragement for young mothers07:18 - What parents and caregivers can learn08:47 - Shame, disappointment, and support10:08 - Growing up around social work and service10:29 - Family fish fries and Carla’s first lesson in community11:32 - Community starts at home12:59 - School, work, and social services14:20 - The support system that made progress possible15:12 - Returning to finish her degree16:07 - Carla and her daughter graduate in 201816:46 - Break and music from Latif17:12 - “Different This Time” by Latif18:00 - Welcome back from STL Virtual Resource Center Studios19:00 - How Carla got started in real estate20:00 - Managing her mother’s four-family property21:30...

    Carla Reid on Real Estate, Tax Sales, and Building Community Brick by Brick

  6. Jul 16

    Calvin Dantley on Collaboration, Networking, and Building Better Leaders in St. Louis

    St. Louis gets called a “crabs in the barrel” city sometimes, but Calvin Dantley has not experienced it that way. In this episode of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Calvin Dantley, entrepreneur, connector, husband, father, and founder of Master Systems, for a conversation about collaboration, networking, branding, sales, learning and development, and helping first-time managers become stronger leaders. Calvin shares his journey from Pittsburgh to St. Louis, how entrepreneurship runs through his family, what he learned from his father being known as “the picture guy,” and how that shaped his understanding of branding. He also opens up about sales, curiosity, making meaningful connections, and building Master Systems into a learning and development company focused on supporting new and first-time managers. This episode is for entrepreneurs, business owners, managers, team leaders, connectors, and anyone who believes St. Louis grows stronger when people stop gatekeeping and start making the right introductions. In This Episode Cortez and Calvin talk about: Why collaboration and non-gatekeeper culture matters in St. LouisCalvin’s background as an entrepreneur, dad, husband, and connectorMoving from Pittsburgh to St. LouisWhy St. Louis and Pittsburgh feel similarGrowing up as a third-generation operatorHis grandfather’s pharmacy business and his father’s photography companyThe branding lesson Calvin learned from his father being called “the picture guy”Calvin’s journey through Temple University and economicsEarly sales experience, including CutcoMoving through direct sales, business-to-consumer, business-to-business, tobacco, and health and wellnessHow each career stop helped shape the business he is building nowWhy curiosity helps Calvin connect people and solve problemsThe difference between networking and wasting people’s timeThe origin and evolution of Master SystemsMoving from in-person workshops to e-learning after COVIDBuilding animated videos, courses, voiceover work, and a learning libraryWhy Master Systems focuses on first-time managersThe challenges new managers face when leading people they used to work besideCalvin’s Top Five STL recommendationsWhy business owners should seek out local resources and relationshipsKey Takeaways Collaboration works best when people make thoughtful introductions that actually add value.Branding is not just a logo. It is what people remember you for.Curiosity is a business advantage when it helps you ask better questions, listen carefully, and connect problems to solutions.Every career stop can become part of the toolkit for the business you are building.First-time managers often need support with accountability, one-on-ones, performance conversations, and leading former peers.St. Louis has more business resources than many owners realize, but people have to go out, network, ask questions, and get connected.Growth is not the same as scaling. To scale, business owners and leaders need systems, training, and stronger teams.Featured Guest Calvin DantleyFounder, Master Systems Calvin Dantley is an entrepreneur, husband, father, connector, and learning and development professional. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Calvin moved to St. Louis in 2011 and has built deep roots in the local business community. Through Master Systems, Calvin helps organizations support new and first-time managers with practical training, learning resources, and development tools designed to help leaders grow with more confidence and clarity. Guest Links Master Systems: https://mastersystems.us/Calvin Dantley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvin-dantley/Episode Sponsors The 89th Collective This episode was recorded at The 89th Collective Studios in East St. Louis, Illinois. If you need a small event space, a business mailing address, memberships, local vendor discounts, or a place to connect with other entrepreneurs, visit: https://the89thcollective.com Relentless Defensive Firearm Academy, helping responsible citizens across St. Louis train safely, legally, and confidently through firearm safety education, Missouri CCW classes, and self-defense training. Learn more at RelentlessSTL.com or call 314-314-8485. Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit: https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor Music Attribution Break music mentioned in this episode: “Halo” by LateefListen at:https://LateefLive.com Chapters Note: Chapter timestamps were not included in the transcript. Please adjust these to match the final edited audio export. 00:00 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider00:45 - Introducing Calvin Dantley02:00 - Who is Calvin Dantley?03:15 - From Pittsburgh to St. Louis05:00 - Entrepreneurship in Calvin’s family07:00 - The branding lesson from “the picture guy”09:00 - Temple University, economics, and sales11:00 - From tobacco to health and wellness13:00 - How each career stop shaped Master Systems15:00 - Break and music from Latif16:00 - Welcome back from The 89th Collective Studios18:00 - Collaboration over crabs in a barrel20:00 - Curiosity, networking, and making better introductions23:00 - The rules of meaningful connection25:00 - The origin of Master Systems28:00 - COVID, e-learning, animated videos, and digital training31:00 - Serving first-time managers34:00 - The challenge of leading former peers37:00 - Calvin’s Top Five STL41:00 - Freestyle, resources, and workforce development43:00 - Closing words from Cortez Hustle About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is a St. Louis podcast and local media platform hosted by Cortez Hustle and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. The show spotlights the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, leaders, entrepreneurs, and movements building St. Louis from the inside out. Through real conversations and local storytelling, STL Hustle Insider brings attention to the builders, visionaries, and community movers shaping the future of the region. Subscribe, recommend a guest, sponsor the show, or stay connected at:https://stlhustleinsider.com Legal Disclaimer STL Hustle Insider is produced and owned by iHustle Media Group LLC. All show content, including video, audio, graphics, branding, and related media, is copyrighted property of iHustle Media Group LLC unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, sponsors, advertisers, or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or official position of iHustle Media Group LLC, STL Hustle Insider, its partners, affiliates, or sponsors. Content shared on this show is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, medical, mental health, tax, investm...

    Calvin Dantley on Collaboration, Networking, and Building Better Leaders in St. Louis

  7. Jul 9

    Trey L. Scott on Emerging Business Leaders, Cash Mobs, and Meaningful Impact in St. Louis

    Trey L. Scott on Emerging Business Leaders, Cash Mobs, and Meaningful Impact in St. Louis Impact is not always meaningful. But when it is intentional, organized, and rooted in community, it can change the way people see themselves, their neighborhoods, and their local businesses. In this episode of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Trey L. Scott, founder and co-founder of Emerging Business Leaders, for a conversation about East St. Louis roots, community activation, cash mobs, faith, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and what it means to come back home and pour into the people who shaped you. Trey shares how a promise made with his friends years ago became part of the foundation for Emerging Business Leaders, a collective focused on youth development, economic development, civic engagement, storytelling, business support, and helping overlooked people push their vision forward. This is a conversation for entrepreneurs, organizers, community leaders, small business owners, faith-driven builders, and anyone who knows that local change does not happen by accident. It happens when people decide to get up, show up, and do the work. The conversation covers Trey’s East St. Louis upbringing, his move to Glasgow Village, his time at Riverview Gardens and Lincoln University, his call to ministry, the formation of EBL, the power of cash mobs, the role of civic engagement, and the importance of supporting St. Louis businesses with more than words. Trey also opens up about personal loss, building a business to honor legacy, advocating for Clean Slate legislation, creating a mobile “new-age chamber of commerce,” and encouraging entrepreneurs to take the first step even when they feel burned out, unsupported, or unsure. In This Episode Cortez and Trey talk about: Why meaningful impact requires intentionTrey’s identity as a son, father, brother, entrepreneur, preacher, citizen, and follower of ChristGrowing up in East St. Louis and seeing the Arch across the riverMoving from East St. Louis to Glasgow VillageWatching neighborhoods change over timeTrey’s time at Riverview Gardens High SchoolThe Wolf Pack promise to come back home and pour into the communityTrey’s call to ministry and the mentors who saw something in him earlyWhat Emerging Business Leaders is and why it existsHow EBL became a collective of entrepreneurs and community activatorsThe origin of the cash mob conceptHow EBL uses cash mobs to support local businesses with customers, content, exposure, and connectionWhy cash mobs are about more than one day of revenueThe upcoming cash mob bus tour conceptWhy EBL is being described as a mobile, new-age chamber of commerceFerguson, B Juice, STL Run Crew, and the connection between health and community workWhy civic engagement is part of business leadershipTrey’s personal loss and how it shaped his workAdvocacy around Clean Slate and second chances for formerly incarcerated individualsThe importance of stepping up as the next generation of community leadersTrey’s Top Five STL recommendationsHis final word to entrepreneurs who are tired, uncertain, or waiting to startKey Takeaways Meaningful impact happens when people move with intention, not just activity.Local business support should include dollars, visibility, content, relationships, and repeat customers.Community activation requires more than events. It requires systems, people, trust, and follow-through.Civic engagement matters because policies directly affect businesses, neighborhoods, schools, public safety, housing, and opportunity.Emerging Business Leaders is building a model that blends entrepreneurship, community organizing, storytelling, advocacy, and economic development.Small businesses do not always need only money. Sometimes they need structure, bookkeeping help, branding, marketing, relationships, and access.The next generation cannot only admire previous leaders. At some point, it has to step into the gap.Entrepreneurs do not need to have everything figured out before they begin. They need to take the first step.Featured Guest Trey L. ScottFounder and Co-Founder, Emerging Business LeadersAlso known as “The TikTok Preacher” Trey L. Scott is an entrepreneur, preacher, father, community activator, and founder/co-founder of Emerging Business Leaders. Rooted in East St. Louis and shaped by his experiences in Glasgow Village, Riverview Gardens, Lincoln University, ministry, entrepreneurship, and personal loss, Trey is committed to pouring back into the people and communities that helped shape him. Through Emerging Business Leaders, Trey and his team support local businesses, youth development, economic development, civic engagement, storytelling, advocacy, and community-based entrepreneurship. Guest Links Emerging Business LeadersFacebookInstagramTikTok: [Add link] Episode Sponsors The 89th Collective This episode was recorded at The 89th Collective Studios in East St. Louis. If you have a business but you are still using your home address, The 89th Collective offers mailing address services, memberships, access to resources, co-working opportunities, events, and space for entrepreneurs to connect and get work done. Learn more at:https://the89thcollective.com This episode is sponsored by Relentless Defensive Firearm Academy, serving the St. Louis area with firearm safety education, Missouri CCW classes, self-defense training, and private or group instruction for responsible citizens. Their mission is to help people train safely, legally, and confidently, with education and responsibility at the center. Learn more at RelentlessSTL.com or call 314-314-8485. Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit:https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor Music Attribution Break music mentioned in this episode: “Sweet Love” by LateefListen at: LateefLive.com Chapters Note: Chapter timestamps are approximate and based on the transcript provided. Please adjust to match the final edited audio export. 00:01 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider00:18 - Introducing Trey L. Scott and meaningful impact00:53 - Who is Trey L. Scott?01:35 - Citizenship, ownership, and community responsibility02:20 - Growing up in East St. Louis02:51 - Seeing the Arch from across the river03:18 - Moving to Glasgow Village03:47 - Watching neighborhoods change04:17 - Riverview Gardens, overachievement, and searching for identity05:16 - The Wolf Pack promise05:45 - Coming back home and the roots of EBL06:58 - Trey’s church background and early mentorship07:27 - Senior Chief Amitine and the call to ministry08:26 - Ministry, growth, and becoming a man09:12 - Break and music from Latif09:58 - “Sweet Love” by Latif10:08 - Welcome back from The 89th Collective Studios10:55 - What is Emerging Business Leaders?11:17 -...

    Trey L. Scott on Emerging Business Leaders, Cash Mobs, and Meaningful Impact in St. Louis

  8. Jul 2

    Nancy Jordan on Faith, Purpose, Business, and Building What God Gave You

    Nancy Jordan joins STL Hustle Insider to talk about building a life and business around purpose. She opens up about growing up with faith, pursuing law, realizing the legal system was not fully aligned with her deeper mission, and discovering her purpose through helping people start businesses.    What if the thing you keep doing to help people is not just a gift, but part of your assignment? In this episode of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with Nancy Jordan, CEO of Grow Business Development LLC, for a conversation about faith, purpose, entrepreneurship, marriage, community economics, and mission-driven alignment. Nancy shares how her journey took her from childhood faith to law school, to working in difficult areas of the legal system, to discovering that helping people build what God placed inside them was not just something she enjoyed. It was the work she was called to do. This episode is for entrepreneurs, leaders, believers, nonprofit builders, corporate professionals considering entrepreneurship, and anyone trying to move from scattered ideas to clear, purpose-driven action. The conversation also covers her book, Six Success Goals for Business: Six Elements for Godly Success, her work with entrepreneurs around the world, the power of community economics, her upcoming From Employee to Entrepreneur workshop, marriage lessons after 23 years, and her favorite St. Louis recommendations. In This Episode Cortez and Nancy talk about: Who Nancy Jordan is and why purpose has always shaped her lifeHer early faith journey and coming to know the Lord at six years oldMoving through different Midwest cities before settling in St. LouisWanting to become a judge before fully understanding the legal pathWhat working around divorce, custody, domestic violence, and orders of protection taught herThe difference between what the law can do and where grace and faith step inHow volunteering at church helped her discover her real assignmentTurning helping people into a business without losing the heart of the workLearning not to take a God-given vision and try to build it without GodMeeting her husband Will and lessons from 23 years of marriageHer book, Six Success Goals for Business: Six Elements for Godly SuccessWhy SMART goals did not fully resonate with her and how her own system was developedCoaching and supporting entrepreneurs in other countriesInvest Change and the power of savings groups, trust, and community economicsThe upcoming From Employee to Entrepreneur workshopNancy’s Top Five STL recommendationsHer final encouragement for anyone carrying a God-given visionKey Takeaways Purpose may already be showing up in the work you naturally do to help others.A successful career path can still feel disconnected from the deeper work you are called to do.The law may be designed to resolve and separate certain matters, but Nancy’s mission has been rooted in building, restoring, and supporting relationships.Entrepreneurs often receive the vision from God, then make the mistake of trying to build it in their own strength.Goals should not just sound impressive. They should honor God, become practical, and be built into daily action.Community economics works when people establish trust, shared rules, and a commitment to building together.Marriage requires keeping God first, even above the needs and expectations placed on a spouse.If God gave you the vision, He did not make a mistake, but you may still need people to walk with you as you build it.Featured Guest Nancy Jordan - CEO, Grow Business Development LLC Author, Six Success Goals for Business: Six Elements for Godly Success Nancy Jordan is a faith-driven entrepreneur, attorney by training, wife, mother, business development leader, author, and purpose advocate. She has been connected to St. Louis for more than 30 years and has helped entrepreneurs, organizations, churches, communities, and leaders move from vision to execution. Through Grow Business Development LLC, Nancy helps people clarify what they are called to build, create goals that are grounded in faith and action, and move forward with structure, strategy, and support. Guest Links Six Success Goals for Business: Six Elements for Godly Success: https://sixcessgoals.com/From Employee to Entrepreneur Workshop: https://claritystartsnow.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancymjordan/ Resources Mentioned Grow Business Development LLCSix Success Goals for Business: Six Elements for Godly SuccessInvest ChangeFrom Employee to Entrepreneur WorkshopThe 89th CollectiveTruman State University, formerly Northeast Missouri State UniversitySIU School of LawJoyce Meyer’s Dream CenterTower Grove ParkSt. Louis toasted ravioliSaint Louis ZooSt. Louis-style Chinese foodJazz venue in the Central West End: [Confirm venue name]LatifLive.comEpisode Sponsors The 89th Collective This episode was recorded at The 89th Collective Studios in East St. Louis, Illinois. If you have a business but do not have a business address, The 89th Collective offers mailing address services, memberships, business resources, event space, co-working space, Wi-Fi access, and a place for entrepreneurs to get work done. Learn more at:https://the89thcollective.com Interested in sponsoring STL Hustle Insider?Visit:https://stlhustleinsider.com/become-a-sponsor Music Attribution Break music mentioned in this episode: “Different This Time” by LateefListen at:https://LatifLive.com Chapters Note: Chapter timestamps are approximate and based on the two-part transcript provided. Please adjust to match the final edited audio export. 04:56 - Welcome to STL Hustle Insider05:47 - Who is Nancy Jordan?06:49 - Young Nancy, faith, and purpose08:23 - From Chicago to St. Louis09:06 - Wanting to become a judge09:33 - Law school and difficult legal work10:18 - What the law can do and where grace steps in11:24 - Discovering purpose through helping others12:30 - Turning purpose work into paid business12:55 - Building with God, not just in your own strength14:21 - Meeting her husband, Will16:37 - Marriage lessons after 23 years18:26 - Break music from Latif18:26 - Welcome back from The 89th Collective Studios19:44 - Nancy’s book, Six Success Goals for Business20:48 - Why SMART goals did not resonate with her22:42 - The story behind the “success goals” name23:01 - Entrepreneurship around the world24:52 - The risk and resilience of global entrepreneurs25:51 - Invest Change and community economics27:52 - Pooling resources and rebuilding trust28:55 - From Employee to Entrepreneur workshop30:29 - Who the workshop is designed for31:48 - Nancy’s Top Five STL recommendations34:57 - Freestyle, Nancy’s final word35:44 - If God gave you the vision, He did not make a mistake36:38 - Closing About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is...

    Nancy Jordan on Faith, Purpose, Business, and Building What God Gave You

  9. Jun 25

    James Dickerson on Faith, Resilience, Entrepreneurship & Overcoming Adversity Ep 001

    James Dickerson’s story is about faith, grief, business, resilience, and the strength to keep going when life gives you every reason to stop. In this episode of STL Hustle Insider, Cortez Hustle sits down with James Dickerson for a powerful conversation about overcoming adversity, walking by faith, building successful businesses, and staying rooted in purpose through life’s hardest moments. James shares how his entrepreneurial mindset started early, from creative business ideas as a young man to later building and exiting successful businesses. But this conversation goes far beyond business. He opens up about the impact of the crack epidemic on his community, the role mentorship played in shaping his life, the importance of faith, and how he continued to serve, lead, and grow through grief and personal loss. This episode is a reminder that resilience is not about avoiding pain. It is about getting back up, leaning into purpose, and continuing to move forward with faith, community, and a reason bigger than yourself. In This Episode James Dickerson’s early entrepreneurial venturesHow a bike rental idea revealed his business instinctsThe impact of the crack epidemic on his community and lifeThe role of faith in overcoming adversityBuilding and exiting successful businessesWhy does a business become more valuable when it can operate without the ownerThe importance of mentorship and spiritual foundationHow personal loss shaped James’ perspective on purposeCommunity service, leadership, and giving backFinding hope after grief and setbacksKey Takeaways Finding an itch in the marketplace and scratching it can lead to success.A business that can operate without the owner becomes more valuable.Resilience means getting back up after loss, grief, and setbacks.Faith and community service can shape both personal and professional growth.Mentorship and strong relationships can transform lives.Purpose can help carry you through seasons that success alone cannot fix.Episode Sponsors This episode of STL Hustle Insider is made possible by our episode sponsors and community partners who believe in supporting local stories, local businesses, and the people helping move St. Louis forward. Sponsored by:Manly Mo-Jo — Premium Skincare & Wellness Brand for men.Website: ManlyMo-Jo.com Additional Support From:iHustle Media Group — AI Systems & Marketing Integration for Local BusinessesWebsite: iHuslteMG.com Interested in sponsoring a future episode of STL Hustle Insider?Learn more at: https://stlhustleinsider.com/sponsor Featured Guest James Dickerson Connect with James:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdickersonTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/jamesdickerson Resources Mentioned Bishop E. Dwight K. — Mentor and spiritual guidehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dwightk The 89th Collective — Event Space in East St. Louishttps://the89thcollective.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest introduction02:08 Who is James Dickerson?03:09 Walking the entrepreneurial journey with faith04:36 First speaking engagement and early success05:55 Early entrepreneurial ventures: Bike rental business08:36 Impact of the crack epidemic and community involvement11:35 Community service: Shutting down crack houses13:22 The importance of mentorship and faith in transformation14:45 Overcoming loss, grief, and resilience18:34 The power of mentorship and spiritual foundation19:18 Building and exiting successful businesses21:51 Resilience in the face of personal tragedy24:36 The passing of James Dickerson’s daughter25:34 Finding hope and purpose after loss26:54 Closing thoughts and inspiring message About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is a St. Louis podcast and local media platform hosted by Cortez Hustle, spotlighting the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, and movements building the city from the inside out. Music Attribution Music used in this episode is royalty-free/licensed for use by STL Hustle Insider. Track: HaloArtist/Creator: LaTeefWebsite: LaTeefLive.com All music is used in accordance with the applicable license terms.2AKGZLMVLBPM9IAX Subscribe, recommend a guest, sponsor the show, or stay connected at:https://stlhustleinsider.com

    James Dickerson on Faith, Resilience, Entrepreneurship & Overcoming Adversity Ep 001

  10. Episode 1

    Welcome to STL Hustle Insider | The Stories Building St. Louis

    Welcome to the official trailer episode of STL Hustle Insider, the podcast spotlighting the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, and community builders moving St. Louis forward. In this trailer, host Cortez Hustle introduces the vision behind the show, why this platform is being built, and what listeners can expect from future episodes. STL Hustle Insider was created to document the real stories behind the hustle happening across the city and the region — from entrepreneurs building from the ground up to community leaders creating opportunities for others. This episode is an invitation to be part of the first wave. Whether you were born and raised in St. Louis, moved away but still claim the city, recently arrived, or are thinking about making St. Louis home, this podcast is designed to give you a front-row seat to the people and stories shaping the region. If you believe local stories deserve a bigger platform, subscribe now, share the show, and nominate someone building something meaningful in St. Louis. In This Trailer, We Cover:  Why STL Hustle Insider was created  The mission behind spotlighting St. Louis stories  Who the podcast is designed to feature  Why this platform is bigger than just interviews  How local businesses, creatives, nonprofits, and community builders will be highlighted  Why listeners should subscribe before the first full episode drops  How to nominate someone for a future feature About This Episode This trailer sets the tone for STL Hustle Insider and introduces the heart behind the platform. Hosted by Cortez Hustle, this show will take listeners inside the stories, behind the brands, and around the city to meet the builders, dreamers, leaders, and local voices helping move St. Louis forward. The goal is simple: document the hustle, celebrate the impact, and help more people discover who is building something meaningful in and around St. Louis. Episode Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to STL Hustle Insider 00:12 Why St. Louis needs to tell its own stories 00:30 Who this podcast will spotlight 00:49 Why this is bigger than a podcast 01:08 Who should listen 01:26 What to expect from future episodes 01:45 Subscribe and become one of the first 100 insiders 02:00 Nominate someone building something meaningful in St. Louis About STL Hustle Insider STL Hustle Insider is the podcast spotlighting the people, businesses, and movements building St. Louis. Hosted by Cortez Hustle, the show features conversations with entrepreneurs, small business owners, creatives, nonprofit leaders, and community builders who are creating impact across St. Louis and the surrounding region. Each episode goes inside the story, behind the brand, and around the city to highlight the real hustle shaping the future of St. Louis. Subscribe to STL Hustle Insider Stay connected to the people, businesses, and movements building St. Louis. Official Website: https://stlhustleinsider.com Follow the Show: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stlhustleinsider Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stlhustleinsider Subscribe and Listen: [Apple Podcasts Link] [Spotify Link] [YouTube Link] [Other Podcast Platform Links]

    Welcome to STL Hustle Insider | The Stories Building St. Louis

Trailer

About

STL Hustle Insider is the podcast spotlighting the people, businesses, creatives, nonprofits, and community builders moving St. Louis forward. Hosted by Cortez Hustle, this show goes behind the scenes with local entrepreneurs, small business owners, community leaders, artists, organizers, and everyday builders who are creating impact across the city. Each episode explores the story behind the work, the St. Louis connection, the lessons learned along the way, and the ways the community can support what is being built. This is more than a podcast. STL Hustle Insider is a local media platform created to document the real hustle, real impact, and real stories shaping St. Louis from the inside out. Subscribe, share, and nominate someone we should feature. STL Hustle Insider The people, businesses, and movements building St. Louis.

Information

  • Creator
    H Cortez Springer
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © iHustle Media Group LLC
  • Show Website
    STL Hustle Insider