Business First w/Sonia Alleyne Mean Ole Lion Media

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne talks Digital Marketing with Brenton Thomas, the founder and CEO of Twibi, a digital marketing company. They discuss the evolution of marketing over the past decade, the challenges faced by small businesses in understanding and implementing digital marketing strategies, and the importance of balancing the art and science of marketing. Brenton also shares insights on the use of AI in marketing and the need for businesses to stay updated with the rapidly changing digital landscape. He offers advice on using Google Ads and Facebook Ads for lead generation and revenue generation, respectively.

Nicole Smith, founder of Smitten, discusses the importance of coaching and being good to oneself in both personal and professional life. She emphasizes the need for compassionate listening and giving yourself permission to change and evolve. Nicole shares her own journey from working in the entertainment and sports industries to becoming a coach. She encourages individuals to tap into their desires and develop the skill of taking risks.

In this conversation, Sonia Alleyne speaks to Dave Wooley, a director, producer, author, and serial entrepreneur. They discuss his recent documentary, Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over, and his experiences working with legendary musicians. Wooley shares his journey from starting a business at nine years old to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, overcoming fear, and taking risks. Wooley also talks about the challenges of making the documentary and the trust he built with Dionne Warwick. He encourages listeners to follow their dreams and not give up.

In this conversation, Kia Weatherspoon, founder and CEO of Determined By Design, discusses her approach to design and advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and confidence in her work, rejecting the idea of being limited to speaking during Black History Month. Kia shares how her experiences visiting prisons and serving in the military inspired her to create spaces that are humane and uplifting. She highlights the need for design to address the needs of low-income communities and challenges biases in the industry. Kia's design process is rooted in the narratives and histories of neighborhoods, creating spaces that reflect the essence of the people who inhabit them. Kia discusses the power of design and the impact it can have on people's lives. She shares stories of the positive responses she has received from individuals who have experienced her designs. Kia emphasizes the importance of design in creating equitable spaces and the need for diversity in the industry. She also talks about the significance of trademarking and protecting intellectual property. Kia addresses the challenges faced by major companies in achieving diversity and provides practical steps for creating a more inclusive environment. She shares her experiences in the military and how they have shaped her approach to leadership. Finally, Kia highlights the importance of mental health and the role of therapy in maintaining well-being while advocating for change.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne chats with Vicky Brown, the CEO of eDomineo, Inc., an HR consulting company. They discuss the challenges of staffing for small businesses and the importance of mindset and job descriptions. Vicky shares her background and the story of how she started her own business. They also talk about the role of leadership in employee engagement and the importance of promoting employees. Vicky provides insights into managing family members in the business and offers advice for small business owners.