Business of the Beat

Mean Ole Lion Media

Hosted by three-time founder, bestselling author, and award-winning industry thought leader Kendra Bracken-Ferguson, Business of the Beat takes you inside the business of beauty and wellness—unpacking the real stories behind starting, growing and accelerating breakthrough brands. Each episode features candid conversations with founders, senior executives, influencers, and operators who are shaping the future of the industry. From funding to failures, pivots to purpose, and hustle to harmony, you’ll get unfiltered insights and actionable strategies to grow and scale with intention. Now in its fifth season with over 180 episodes, Business of the Beat is the go-to resource for all business leaders ready to turn passion into profit and ambition into impact. Subscribe today—and unlock the beauty of your success.

  1. What happens when the hustle that helped build your success begins to compete with your peace?

    4d ago

    What happens when the hustle that helped build your success begins to compete with your peace?

    In this special episode of Business of the Beat, hosts Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and LaShasta Bell invite listeners into an honest conversation about their journey from hustle to harmony. As they continue their wellness-focused season, the duo reflects on the importance of prioritizing mental health, cultivating meaningful connections, and creating space for rest in a culture that often glorifies constant productivity. Kendra and LaShasta share the inspiration behind their upcoming wellness retreat, the challenges they encountered during the planning process, and the difficult but intentional decision to move the retreat to a later date to better align with their vision, values, and the needs of their community. Their transparency offers a powerful reminder that success isn't just about pushing forward—it's about knowing when to pause, reassess, and make decisions rooted in purpose. The conversation also explores the realities of partnership, the importance of self-care for entrepreneurs and professionals, and their commitment to making wellness experiences more accessible and inclusive. Through personal stories and practical insights, they encourage listeners to embrace balance, prioritize their well-being, and build community along the way. Plus, learn how you can participate in their monthly wellness collaborations and join them on the journey toward greater harmony, healing, and connection. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share this episode with your network.

    30 min
  2. The Healing and Shifting Story of Danielle Andisa Johnson

    May 31

    The Healing and Shifting Story of Danielle Andisa Johnson

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and LaShasta Bell sit down with Danielle Andisa Johnson for a powerful conversation about reinvention, wellness, emotional intelligence, and the courage it takes to pivot toward purpose. Danielle shares her remarkable journey from a successful engineering career at NASA to founding Intercom Academy, where she now focuses on wellness, breathwork, and helping individuals and organizations better understand the connection between stress, the nervous system, and overall well-being. The conversation explores the importance of timing, self-awareness, and trusting yourself enough to walk away from stability in pursuit of alignment and fulfillment. Together, they dive into the impact of generational trauma, the mental and physical effects of chronic stress, and why breathwork can be such a transformative tool—especially within communities of color. Danielle also discusses how she bridges the gap between wellness practices and the corporate world through workshops, retreats, and employee wellness initiatives designed to support emotional regulation, mental health, and sustainable success. This episode is an inspiring reminder that prioritizing your peace, joy, and healing is not a luxury—it’s necessary. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    51 min
  3. "L" Stands for Lesson, Lessons Equal Growth

    May 24

    "L" Stands for Lesson, Lessons Equal Growth

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and LaShasta Bell sit down with fashion designer, entrepreneur, and creative visionary Sharon A. Keyser for an inspiring conversation about reinvention, purpose, and the power of trusting your intuition. Sharon opens up about her transition from a stable career as a CPA into the world of fashion and entrepreneurship, sharing how embracing change and listening to her inner voice helped shape her journey. The conversation explores the importance of personal growth, navigating pivots, and recognizing when it’s time to align your passion with your purpose. The episode also dives into Sharon’s innovative digital vision board platform, designed to help people create clarity around their goals through visualization, manifestation, and intentional living. From her self-help mini reads to her successful product lines and future aspirations, Sharon shares valuable lessons on creativity, persistence, timing, and staying open to new possibilities. This episode is a reminder that sometimes your biggest breakthrough begins when you stop ignoring what’s calling you. And while you’re listening, take the next step toward your own goals with Sharon A. Keyser’s Digital Vision Boards. Visit SharonAKeyserOfficial.com and use promo code BOTB526 to receive 15% off your purchase. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    46 min
  4. Leading Without Losing Yourself

    May 17

    Leading Without Losing Yourself

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, hosts Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and LaShasta Bell sit down with award-winning author and entrepreneur Melissa Gonzalez for a powerful conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, wellness, and the importance of self-awareness in business and life. Melissa opens up about her journey from Wall Street to launching her own company, sharing the lessons she learned while building a business, navigating partnerships, and balancing ambition with personal well-being. The conversation dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, including the importance of trust, communication, and community support, while also exploring how personal health challenges became a wake-up call that pushed Melissa to prioritize wellness in a deeper way. Together, the trio discuss the connection between mental and physical health, the transformative power of storytelling, and why vulnerability is essential for authentic leadership. This episode is an honest and inspiring reminder that success means nothing if you sacrifice yourself in the process—and that true leadership starts with knowing yourself first. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    49 min
  5. The Journey of Legacy for Mothers to Daughters

    May 10

    The Journey of Legacy for Mothers to Daughters

    In this Mother's Day episode of Business of the Beat, a message for mothers and their daughters. hosts Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and LaShasta Bell sit down with Francine Mbvoumbo, founder of Mothers to Daughters, for a powerful conversation on legacy, mentorship, and the transformative power of connection. Francine shares her journey from corporate America to building a purpose-driven community that uplifts and supports young women entrepreneurs. At the heart of her work is a bold mission: to empower 100,000 women entrepreneurs by 2035. The discussion explores how redefining motherhood, embracing mentorship, and fostering authentic relationships across generations can create lasting impact. Together, they dive into the concept of generational intelligence—the idea that mentorship is not one-directional, but a reciprocal exchange of wisdom between generations. From understanding heritage to building partnerships that matter, this episode highlights how self-awareness, community, and collaboration can shape both identity and success. This is a conversation about building something bigger than yourself—and bringing others with you along the way. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    45 min
  6. From Hustle to Structure to Harmony: The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program

    May 3

    From Hustle to Structure to Harmony: The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson is joined by LaShasta and Michelle Ngome for an inspiring and insightful conversation on the real impact of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program. LaShasta shares her personal journey through the program—opening up about the challenges, breakthroughs, and growth she experienced along the way. Together, the group breaks down what makes the program unique, from its blend of practical business education to its focus on personal development, accountability, and execution. The conversation highlights the importance of community, transparency, and communication in entrepreneurship, while also tackling common myths about what it really takes to build and sustain a successful business. From financial literacy to the power of networking, this episode offers a clear look at how structured programs can accelerate growth when paired with commitment and consistency. Beyond the business lessons, the discussion also dives into mental health and wellness—an often overlooked but critical part of the entrepreneurial journey—and how resilience and adaptability play a key role in long-term success. Whether you’re considering applying to the program or simply looking to level up your business, this episode provides both practical guidance and real-world perspective. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    46 min
  7. The Power of Boundaries for Growth

    Apr 26

    The Power of Boundaries for Growth

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with celebrity hairstylist and makeup artist Sarai Martinez for a powerful conversation on reinvention, resilience, and the real cost of success in the beauty industry. Sarai opens up about her journey—overcoming personal and professional hardships, taking the leap to build her own business, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. At the core of her story is the importance of community, investing in yourself, and building meaningful relationships that sustain both your career and your well-being. The conversation goes deeper into the often-unspoken realities of burnout, the necessity of setting boundaries, and why mental health must be a priority in high-pressure creative industries. Together, they explore how the definition of success evolves over time—and how staying aligned with purpose can guide that transformation. Sarai also shares her future aspirations, including her goal of becoming an author, and offers insight for anyone navigating the balance between ambition and self-care. This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about how you sustain it. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

    53 min
  8. The Foundation of Beauty is Wellness

    Apr 19

    The Foundation of Beauty is Wellness

    In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Nicole Jones, a trichologist and licensed cosmetologist, to explore the evolving intersection of beauty, health, and entrepreneurship. Nicole shares her journey from aspiring doctor to building a purpose-driven beauty business, revealing how her passion for care and healing found a new path in the beauty industry. Through her work with Studio Nicky Spice, she’s redefining what it means to serve clients—creating a space that goes beyond aesthetics to prioritize total wellness. The conversation dives into the importance of professional training in beauty, the often-overlooked connection between mental health and self-image, and the transformative impact of services like cranial prosthesis in restoring confidence for clients facing medical hair loss. Looking ahead, Nicole outlines her vision for expanding wellness education within the beauty space—bridging the gap between beauty professionals and holistic health practices. This episode is a powerful reminder that beauty isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you feel, heal, and show up in the world.

    29 min
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5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Hosted by three-time founder, bestselling author, and award-winning industry thought leader Kendra Bracken-Ferguson, Business of the Beat takes you inside the business of beauty and wellness—unpacking the real stories behind starting, growing and accelerating breakthrough brands. Each episode features candid conversations with founders, senior executives, influencers, and operators who are shaping the future of the industry. From funding to failures, pivots to purpose, and hustle to harmony, you’ll get unfiltered insights and actionable strategies to grow and scale with intention. Now in its fifth season with over 180 episodes, Business of the Beat is the go-to resource for all business leaders ready to turn passion into profit and ambition into impact. Subscribe today—and unlock the beauty of your success.

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