A Bright Idea

Amber Key
  • 4.8 (18)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hey Everybody, this is Amber Key and you’re listening to ‘ A Bright Idea’ podcast, a show that sits down with entrepreneurs to hear about the ‘Aha' moment that launched their businesses. In each episode, founders share their story from idea to execution, insights on their industry, and key takeaways for anyone looking to pave their own path. Hear episodes on Wednesdays. You can listen to 'A Bright Idea' anywhere you listen to podcasts. If you are a founder or know someone who has launched a cool business and would like to be featured, email us at jacksonstreetmediaco@gmail.com.

  1. Missing in Action: She Left a $350K Job to Build Something She Could Not Find

    APR 8

    Missing in Action: She Left a $350K Job to Build Something She Could Not Find

    On this week’s episode, I sat down with Jordan Polk, founder and CEO of M.I.A. also known as missing in action - a Detroit-based hair and scalp care brand on a mission to make the outdoors more accessible. A former investment banker and software private equity investor , Jordan left Wall Street to build the category she couldn't find — protection-first haircare for textured hair experiencing damage and dryness while living actively outdoors. Missing in Action’s hero product, HairBlockTM, is a clean, science-forward daily barrier serum that supports against UV, chlorine, salt water, and cold weather.  Jordan placed 2nd at Beauty Tank LA in 2026 and is backed by 20+ years of haircare industry expertise through her advisor network. In this episode, Jordan and I chat about her experience going from private equity to founding Missing in Action. And through her experience in high-finance, she shares her strategies for fundraising, building a credible brand, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Jordan’s Journey 02:00 - Inspiration Behind MIA 05:00 - Customer Feedback in Product Development 08:30 - Leveraging Private Equity Skills 12:00 - Focusing on One Product 15:00 - Funding Strategies 20:00 - Strategic Business Growth 24:00 - Navigating Funding Challenges 28:00 - Building an Inclusive Brand 32:00 - Digital Marketing Strategies 36:00 - Networking for Investment 40:00 - Overcoming Product Challenges 44:00 - Establishing Credibility 48:00 - Personalizing Branding 52:00 - Strategic Investor Engagement 56:00 - Leveraging Partnerships 60:00 - Mindset Shifts for Success 64:00 - Building a Scalable Business 68:00 - Social Media Impact 72:00 - Focused Marketing Approach 76:00 - Lessons for New Entrepreneurs 80:00 - Supporting Jordan and MIA resources Jordan's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jordanismia/ Missing in Action (MIA) - https://www.missinginaction.com/ First Look Ventures - https://firstlookventures.com/ LinkedIn Profile of Jordan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanapolk/ Missing in Action's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebrandismia/

    1h 16m

  2. APR 4

    Laid Off, Not Left Behind

    In this episode of A Bright Idea Podcast, I share my personal experience with being laid off and emphasize the importance of having a backup plan. I discuss mindset shifts, the value of side hustles, and practical tips for financial resilience during career transitions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 02:52 Personal Experience with Layoffs 06:13 The Importance of Backup Plans 08:48 Reframing the Narrative of Entrepreneurship 11:58 Protecting Your Peace with Multiple Income Streams

    31 min

  3. APR 4

    So Curious: Building a Greeting Cards Company Bigger Than Hallmark

    On this week’s episode, I sat down with Justin Shiels, a creative futurist, author, and founder of SoCurious. He creates joy-centered art, analog experiences, and creative practices rooted in self-love and nervous-system care. His work helps people slow down, feel safe, and reconnect with what it means to be human in a digital world.  In this episode - Justin shares how he went from being a creative director - a profession he decided on when he was just 8 years old to founder of So Curious where he emphasizes authenticity, community building, and the power of joy in business. We discuss practical strategies for launching a creative business, the importance of iteration, and how to stay true to your purpose amidst challenges.

    1h 10m
  4. Papi Cuisine: Merging Bold Flavors, Culture, and Innovation beyond Food

    MAR 18

    Papi Cuisine: Merging Bold Flavors, Culture, and Innovation beyond Food

    In this episode of the Bright Idea Podcast, Amber Key interviews Alex Perez, the founder of Papi Cuisine, a unique food brand that merges cultures through Afro-Latin fusion cuisine. Alex shares his journey from humble beginnings in Baltimore to building a successful restaurant and product line. He discusses the importance of storytelling, social media, and community engagement in growing his brand. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced during the pandemic, the mindset shifts required for entrepreneurship, and the definition of wealth beyond monetary success. Alex emphasizes the importance of following one's calling and the impact of fear on decision-making, encouraging listeners to take action despite their fears. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Papi Cuisine and Alex Perez 05:20 The Vision Behind Papi Cuisine 09:48 Baltimore's Unique Food Scene 13:10 Identifying Gaps in the Market 15:03 The Journey from Home Cooking to Business 19:08 The Role of Social Media in Growth 29:02 Transitioning to a Nationally Recognized Brand 29:44 Building a Flavorful Foundation 34:07 Navigating the Pandemic's Challenges 39:39 Mindset Shifts in Business 45:09 Defining Success and Future Aspirations 53:35 Wealth Beyond Money 57:19 Learning from Mistakes 01:00:01 Overcoming Fear to Chase Dreams

    1h 10m
  5. Root Branch Media: How One Woman Bought a City Block Without Investors or Grants - The Power of Belief

    MAR 11

    Root Branch Media: How One Woman Bought a City Block Without Investors or Grants - The Power of Belief

    In this episode of A Bright Idea podcast, Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew shares her inspiring journey as the first black woman to buy a block in Baltimore. She discusses the importance of financial literacy for creatives, the myths surrounding entrepreneurship, and the significance of building a legacy through education and community engagement. Dr. Vonnya emphasizes the need for creatives to understand the business side of their work and how storytelling plays a crucial role in their success. Her vision for Root Branch as a multiverse of opportunities showcases her commitment to empowering the next generation and creating lasting impact in the community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Vanya Pettigrew 03:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:56 Myths and Realities of Entrepreneurship 09:11 The Importance of Business Skills for Creatives 11:50 Owning a Block: A Legacy of Empowerment 14:49 Education and Media: Building Futures 18:09 Creating Opportunities for the Underserved 28:47 Innovative Solutions for Remote Engagement 30:46 Building Trust and Transparency in Mentorship 32:23 Navigating Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship 35:52 The Importance of Diverse Income Streams 39:06 Creating a Sustainable Business Ecosystem 41:18 Supporting Creatives and Community Development 47:39 Legacy and Long-Term Impact 53:03 Embracing Your Unique Expertise

    1 hr
  6. Spigot Guard: The Invention Saving Patients From Deadly Hospital Infections

    MAR 4

    Spigot Guard: The Invention Saving Patients From Deadly Hospital Infections

    In this conversation, Amy Huser discusses her journey as an entrepreneur in the healthcare sector, focusing on her innovative product, SpigotGuard, designed to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). She shares insights from her nursing background, the challenges of developing a medical device, and the importance of patient safety. The discussion also covers the impact of hospital-acquired infections, the significance of clinical trials, and the future of healthcare innovation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spick Guard and Innovation in Medicine05:52 The Journey of a Nurse to CEO11:58 The Day-to-Day Life of a Nurse17:52 Understanding Hospital-Acquired Infections24:10 The Impact of Catheter-Associated Infections25:12 Evidence-Based Practices for CAUTI Prevention27:37 Innovative Solutions to CAUTI Challenges29:04 The Journey of Product Development31:03 Clinical Studies and Efficacy Testing34:19 Global Expansion and Market Adoption37:23 Success Stories and Positive Outcomes40:50 The Device's Versatility Across Care Settings42:18 Navigating Hospital Systems and Distributors45:10 Building a Supportive Network48:08 The Emotional Journey of Entrepreneurship50:06 Future Plans and Exit Strategy52:20 Innovations Beyond CAUTIs56:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

    1h 3m
  7. Why Your Business Needs a Podcast in 2026!!!

    12/03/2025

    Why Your Business Needs a Podcast in 2026!!!

    n this episode of A Bright Idea Podcast, I help your business be the best it can be in 2026 by sharing the transformative power of podcasting for business growth. I cover why every business should consider starting a podcast, learn efficient editing tips for busy entrepreneurs, and understand the importance of building a strong podcast team. I also highlight podcasting as an important marketing tool and share strategies for effective monetization. Tune in for practical insights and tips to enhance your brand visibility and achieve podcasting success.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to A Bright Idea Podcast05:02 Why Every Business Needs A Podcast09:20 Clarifying Your Podcast Purpose13:29 Building A Podcast that Supports Your Brand18:08 Episode Structures That Convert21:53 Finding the Right Guests for Your Podcast26:13 Planning Episodes With A Business Strategy27:12 Recording with Confidence32:41 Editing for Busy Entrepreneurs46:49 Monetizing As A Business Owner40:26 Marketing Your Podcast50:54 Creating A Rate Card for Sponsorships53:52 Building A Podcast Team Resources:How to Stop Letting Everything Effect You by Daniel Chidiac https://amzn.to/49OANmS

    1h 2m
  8. Courtney Ramsey & Co: Celebrating All of Women's Milestones

    11/12/2025

    Courtney Ramsey & Co: Celebrating All of Women's Milestones

    In this episode, we chat with courtney about what led her to photography, emphasizing her polished style and the importance of capturing joy, particularly among Black women. She discusses her dual career as a federal contractor and photographer, highlighting the challenges and rewards of balancing both. Courtney reflects on the influences of the strong women in her family and how they shaped her understanding of beauty and strength. She also delves into her experiences photographing burlesque performers, which taught her about empowerment and body positivity. Throughout the conversation, Courtney emphasizes the significance of creating a comfortable experience for her clients, the importance of continuous learning in her craft, and her desire to help women see their own narratives through her portraits. Ultimately, she aims to celebrate the journey of women and redefine beauty standards, especially for aging women. Chapters 00:00 The Essence of Photography Style 02:59 Navigating Dual Careers: Government and Photography 05:59 The Journey of a Photographer: From Passion to Profession 08:59 Capturing Joy: The Impact of Community Events 11:58 Influences of Womanhood: Family and Representation 15:01 Empowerment Through Burlesque: A Unique Perspective 18:00 Celebrating Women: The Core of Photography 21:10 Creating a Comfortable Experience: The Spotlight Effect 23:55 The Art of Transformation: From Nervousness to Confidence 26:56 A Full-Service Photography Experience 29:47 Empowering Aging Women: Breaking Societal Norms 32:52 Celebrating the Wisdom of Women: Stories of Resilience 36:18 Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs 38:06 Balancing 9 to 5 and Creative Pursuits 41:50 Networking and Community Building 45:23 The Importance of Continuous Learning 50:38 Branding and Client Experience 52:18 Finding Your Niche in Photography 57:18 The Emotional Impact of Photography 01:00:31 Personal Growth Through Creative Work 01:05:30 Legacy and Narrative in Portraits courtneyramsey.co social media: courtneyramsey.co

    1h 19m
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4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Hey Everybody, this is Amber Key and you’re listening to ‘ A Bright Idea’ podcast, a show that sits down with entrepreneurs to hear about the ‘Aha' moment that launched their businesses. In each episode, founders share their story from idea to execution, insights on their industry, and key takeaways for anyone looking to pave their own path. Hear episodes on Wednesdays. You can listen to 'A Bright Idea' anywhere you listen to podcasts. If you are a founder or know someone who has launched a cool business and would like to be featured, email us at jacksonstreetmediaco@gmail.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Amber Key
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Amber Key
  • Show Website
    A Bright Idea

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