Black to Business Black to Business

Navigating the alcohol and spirits industry can be complex, especially for Black entrepreneurs. Monique sits down with industry leaders Dia Simms and Erin J. Hall to discuss how you can break into this lucrative field. Despite making up 15% of the U.S. population and being long-time consumers, Black individuals remain significantly underrepresented in the spirits industry, occupying only about 7% of the roles. This episode is designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to explore untapped opportunities, whether you're currently in the industry, considering entry, or simply want to understand its dynamics better.
 
Dia and Erin founded Pronghorn, a leading accelerator program investing in Black-owned brands to drive $2.4 billion of economic value over the next decade. Global beverage alcohol leader Diageo backed Pronghorn in 2021, committing $200 million based on the achievement of key milestones within a ten-year plan to diversify the spirits industry. Pronghorn offers cash investments, education, and partnerships with industry leaders to help Black entrepreneurs succeed. You'll hear about their journey, valuable insights from their experiences, and how Pronghorn has secured deals and partnerships resulting in a 5% increase in Black representation. 
 
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
Untapped opportunities in the spirits industry for Black entrepreneurs.
The role of local press and smaller platforms in building brand awareness.
Strategies for managing distribution channels effectively in the spirits industry.
The significance of understanding market data and targeting specific audiences.
The importance of producing culturally forward content as a Black-owned vendor.
Tips on leaning into technology and innovation in flavor and packaging.
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/201
 
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
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Cue the celebration! We're thrilled to mark our 200th episode milestone, and it's all thanks to incredible listeners like you. Your support and engagement have fueled our journey, and we couldn't have done it without you.
 
To celebrate this special occasion, we've curated a selection of the most impactful moments from some of our top episodes spanning 2023-2024. These snippets are packed with actionable advice and insights to empower you on your entrepreneurial journey.
 
Here's a sneak peek at what you'll learn in this power-packed episode:
 
Practical tips for starting a business as a new and first-generation Black entrepreneur
The importance of focus and mastering your niche for success
Strategies for getting your business backend in order and streamlining your operations
Essential HR tips for small businesses
Navigating the challenges of business closure with grace and resilience
Building confidence and communicating effectively in any business setting
Planning for retirement as an entrepreneur and securing your financial future
Unleashing your inner brilliance and tapping into your full potential
 
Thank you once again for your unwavering support and for joining us on this incredible journey. Here's to the next 200 episodes and beyond!
 
If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts:
 
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/200
 
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
Connect with us on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/ 
 
Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:
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In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, where every connection counts and every relationship could mean the difference between success and stagnation, understanding the power of social capital is not just advantageous—it's a game-changer. As a Black entrepreneur, you're keenly aware of the importance of forging genuine connections in an environment where opportunities can sometimes feel scarce. Building meaningful relationships isn't just about networking; it's about cultivating a network that supports your growth, opens doors to new opportunities, and fosters a sense of community. In this episode of the Black To Business podcast, we're diving deep into the art of leveraging social capital to cultivate meaningful relationships in business, because we understand the unique challenges you face and the vital role that relationships play in your entrepreneurial journey.
 
Joining us is Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew, a powerhouse in the world of network weaving and relationship-building. With a rich background in leadership, nonprofit management, and philanthropy, Dr. Froswa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. As the co-founder of HERitage Giving Circle and Power in Action - Dallas, as well as the founder and owner of Soulstice Consultancy and The Reconciliation & Restoration Foundation, her impact extends far beyond the realm of entrepreneurship. Dr. Froswa's work has been recognized in Forbes, Ozy, Bustle, Huffington Post, Modern Luxury, and other media outlets, underscoring her status as a thought leader and influencer in her field.



DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
The importance of relationships and how they contribute to business success.
Practical strategies for building and leveraging social capital effectively.
The difference between networking and truly cultivating genuine connections.
The concept of network weaving and how it benefits entrepreneurs.
Tips for identifying key players and nurturing relationships.
Overcoming challenges in relationship building.
Measuring the effectiveness of relationship-building efforts.
So, whether you're a seasoned business owner looking to expand your professional network or a budding entrepreneur eager to forge strategic partnerships, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you cultivate meaningful relationships that drive success in your business endeavors. Tune in and get ready to unlock the full potential of your network!
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/199
 
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
Connect with us on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/ 
 
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Ever felt like you're stuck in a never-ending cycle of pitching your business to potential clients, only to hear crickets in response? Or maybe you've poured your heart and soul into crafting the perfect marketing campaign, only to see it fall flat? As entrepreneurs, we've all been there. The struggle to connect with our audience, convert leads into customers, and ultimately boost sales can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. But what if there was a game-changing strategy right at our fingertips, just waiting to be unleashed? Enter the power of storytelling in business. In this episode, we're diving deep into this transformative tool with Akeem Shannon, a trailblazing entrepreneur who knows firsthand the impact storytelling can have on your bottom line.
 
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
Understanding the concept of "storyselling" and its distinction from traditional sales techniques.
Key elements of crafting a compelling business story that resonates with your audience.
Practical steps for incorporating storytelling into your sales strategies, especially if you're just starting out.
Building brand loyalty and long-term customer engagement through the art of storytelling.
Tailoring storytelling efforts to different target audiences effectively.
Leveraging storytelling to attract customers, build partnerships, and attract top talent.
 
Akeem Shannon's journey from a college dropout to a successful entrepreneur is inspiring and relatable. After facing setbacks, including losing his college scholarship, Akeem found himself working for $10 an hour at a local cell phone shop. However, he didn't let these challenges define him. Instead, he leveraged the sales skills he learned to excel in Fortune 500 companies, eventually transitioning to entrepreneurship. Despite initial struggles, Akeem scaled his company, Flipsitk, from a single mall kiosk to being recognized as one of Inc Magazine's Top 50 Fastest Growing Consumer Brands. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, storytelling, and determination in business.
 
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/198
 
🙏🏿 Support: 
This episode is sponsored by Harvard Business School Executive Education.
Transformation requires a catalyst. For thousands of business leaders, Harvard Business School Executive Education has been that catalyst. Here, senior leaders join in a transformational learning experience, networking with executives from around the world.
During the day, participants take part in dynamic lectures led by distinguished faculty. In the evening, the learning continues in unique on-campus living groups. And a wide range of virtual leadership programs offer the types of interactivity and connectivity formerly reserved for in-person engagements.
Prepare for the next step in your career. Learn More.
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
Connect with us on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/ 
 
Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:
https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

It’s time to reclaim your time by streamlining and automating your business. We understand the entrepreneurial feeling that you have to do it all; juggling multiple responsibilities, managing limited resources, and striving for success in a competitive marketplace. That's why in this episode we delve into the world of streamlining and operations, aiming to simplify your business processes and supercharge your efficiency. We're getting the expert insights from Marie Lewis, the owner of Royal Executive Assistant Inc., a seasoned entrepreneur who specializes in helping businesses optimize their operations for maximum productivity and growth. Marie shares her top tips on how to take advantage of technology and delegation to make the most of your time.
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
Practical strategies for cutting through the clutter and eliminating inefficiencies that hold you back.
The long-term benefits of investing in automation and efficiency tools, and how they can pave the way for sustainable growth.
How to overcome common challenges and roadblocks when implementing streamlining and operations improvements in your business.
Actionable tips to implement streamlining and operations improvements in your own business.
How to harness the power of delegation as a streamlining strategy.
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at  https://blacktobusiness.com/197
 
Support: 
 
This episode is sponsored by Harvard Business School Executive Education. 
 
Transformation requires a catalyst. For thousands of business leaders, Harvard Business School Executive Education has been that catalyst. Here, senior leaders join in a transformational learning experience, networking with executives from around the world.
During the day, participants take part in dynamic lectures led by distinguished faculty. In the evening, the learning continues in unique on-campus living groups. And a wide range of virtual leadership programs offer the types of interactivity and connectivity formerly reserved for in-person engagements.
Prepare for the next step in your career. Learn More.
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
Connect with us on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/ 
 
Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:
https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist

Do you know your ABC’s? Well you’re about to learn the A to Z’s of e-commerce. According to Forbes, small and medium-sized businesses account for approximately 42% of total e-commerce sales in the United States. It's time your business gets a piece of the pie, and we have the perfect person to give it to you! Jance Chartae is a retail strategist and e-commerce coach with a unique blend of expertise in retail sales, management, and online business development. In only 4 years, Jance has grossed $850,000 in online boutique sales, over $2 million in digital product sales and has served more than 7,000 customers worldwide. In this episode, you will learn how to identify your niche, leverage social media, analyze data effectively, and scale your business for growth. If you've ever considered taking your business online or if you're already in the online game but want to get your business to the next level you don’t want to miss this episode.
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
The importance of starting your e-commerce business with a focused niche to navigate the ebb and flow of marketing effectively.
Strategies for scaling your e-commerce business, including purchasing strategies for cost savings and product selection backed by data.
How to leverage social media and other digital platforms to connect with your audience and foster meaningful relationships.
How to utilize analytics and data insights to refine your marketing strategies, optimize product offerings, and enhance the overall customer experience.
The importance of clear communication and brand messaging in the virtual space to avoid misunderstandings and build trust with customers.
Insights into the power of affiliate marketing and crafting engaging content to build brand loyalty.
Don't miss out on the resources mentioned in this episode by checking out the show notes at blacktobusiness.com/196/
 
Support: 
 
This episode is sponsored by Harvard Business School Executive Education. 
 
Transformation requires a catalyst. For thousands of business leaders, Harvard Business School Executive Education has been that catalyst. Here, senior leaders join in a transformational learning experience, networking with executives from around the world.
During the day, participants take part in dynamic lectures led by distinguished faculty. In the evening, the learning continues in unique on-campus living groups. And a wide range of virtual leadership programs offer the types of interactivity and connectivity formerly reserved for in-person engagements.
Prepare for the next step in your career. Learn More.
 
Thank you so much for listening! Please support us by simply rating and reviewing our podcast!
 
Got a question? We’d love to answer it in an upcoming Q&A. Simply record your quick question → https://blacktobusiness.com/QA 
 
Connect with us on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/blacktobusiness/ 
 
Don’t miss an update! Sign up for our weekly newsletter:
https://blacktobusiness.com/mailinglist