GRINDSET Podcast KUDZUKIAN

This episode of Grindset explores the remarkable journey of Miss Betty Joyce "BJ" Chester-Tamayo, the vibrant owner of Alcenia's, a soul food restaurant that has become a cultural icon in Memphis, Tennessee. Celebrating 27 years of success, Miss BJ shares her personal and entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming tragedy to building a beloved community hub. Through a blend of love, resilience, and a commitment to exceptional customer service, Alcenia's not only serves delicious soul food but also acts as a testament to the power of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship.

In this insightful episode of Grindset, hosts Williams Brack and Dana James Mwangi engage with Chef Monique Williams, the co-owner and culinary mastermind behind the acclaimed restaurant Biscuits & Jams. This dialogue sheds light on the complexities and challenges of the food service industry, emphasizing the importance of quality, customer service, and team dynamics. Chef Mo shares her journey from family-inspired cooking to establishing a successful restaurant, revealing the significance of legacy, innovation, and communal effort in achieving business success. The conversation also explores Chef Mo's approach to menu creation, team morale, and navigating the industry as a Black female entrepreneur. Through her story, listeners gain valuable insights into the resilience, creativity, and leadership required to thrive in the competitive world of culinary entrepreneurship.

In this inspiring episode of Grindset with Dana and Brack, we delve into the remarkable journey of Mrs. Elaine Turner and her daughter Alana, the dynamic duo behind Heritage Tours and the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. Discover how they overcame legal challenges and societal barriers to establish the first African American tour company in Tennessee. We explore their unwavering commitment to preserving Memphis' rich African American history and culture, sharing insightful stories that reveal the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the African American community. Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Heritage Tours, a true testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the importance of knowing one's history. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a history enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons and an inspiring glimpse into a journey that intertwines heritage, activism, and business acumen.

In this captivating episode of Grindset, we witness a significant moment as the torch is passed from outgoing host Cynthia Daniels to incoming host Dana James Mwangi. Cynthia, a renowned event planner and a pillar in the Memphis community, shares her inspiring journey of uplifting local businesses and creating landmark events like the Memphis Black Restaurant Week. With over $2.5 million in economic impact, her initiatives have not only boosted local businesses but also brought the community together. Dana, poised to take over, reflects on the importance of these stories in shaping the entrepreneurial landscape of Memphis. This episode is a celebration of the city's vibrant business community and a testament to the power of networking, community involvement, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passion. Join us as we delve into the stories, lessons, and triumphs that define entrepreneurship in Memphis.

On this episode of Grindset, we are joined by Princeton James, founder of Princeton James Productions. He gives us insight into his career and journey and learn the ins and outs of owning and operating a production company.

On this episode of Grindset, we are joined by Leonard Watkins, Owner and President of Stellar Security Services. They dive into his career goals and what it looks like to run a successful business today. We also learn all things about Stellar Security Services and the security industry.