Ever felt the weight of trying to fit into a mold that doesn't feel quite right, just to make it in business? Well, let’s talk about flipping that script. In this solo episode of the Black to Business Podcast, our founder and host, Monique T. Marshall, dives deep into "The Power of Authenticity in Business." Monique offers a dive into why being genuine can be a game-changer for your business and your community. For Black entrepreneurs, who often encounter unique pressures and expectations, Monique emphasizes that authenticity isn't just beneficial—it's essential. When you show up as your true ..read more

Imagine you've just recruited a top-notch talent who's eager to join your team and contribute to the growth of your business. Everything seems to be falling into place—until you realize their previous non-compete agreement can undermine this opportunity. This is the kind of scenario many business owners face, and it’s about to become even more relevant with the upcoming regulatory changes.   In this crucial episode of Black to Business, we delve into the FTC Non-compete Rule and the Corporate Transparency Act—two significant regulatory shifts that will impact how you manage your workforce ..read more

Tired of feeling lost when it comes to taxes? We get it! Navigating the intricacies of tax laws can be a daunting task for any entrepreneur, but understanding and properly managing your taxes is essential for the financial health of your business. In this episode, we offer a comprehensive guide to simplified tax-saving strategies that can make a significant difference in your bottom line. Our guest, Ibrahim Mohammed, a tax expert dedicated to empowering small business owners, shares his wealth of knowledge to help you maximize your deductions and minimize your liabilities.   Why is this c ..read more

Ready to master the art of bootstrapping and effectively self-funding your business? In this episode of Black to Business, we're diving deep into the practical strategies and mindset shifts necessary for success. We know that starting and sustaining a business with limited resources can be a daunting task, especially as Black entrepreneurs, we often face additional challenges such as restricted access to external funding and systemic barriers. This episode provides you with the tools and insights to turn those challenges into stepping stones towards a thriving, self-funded business.   Boo ..read more

Wrapping up our annual Black Men Who Lead series, this podcast episode celebrates Black men making strides in both business and community leadership throughout the month of June. As a listener focused on entrepreneurship, you know the journey of starting and growing your own business often includes searching for wisdom, motivation, and actionable strategies. In this special remix, we've curated seven compelling snippets from our previous episodes highlighting impactful conversations with Black men who are trailblazers in their fields. These excerpts are designed to provide you with inspiring i ..read more

In today's world, access to high-speed internet is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. But what happens when entire communities are left behind in the digital age? This episode of the Black to Business Podcast tackles the critical issue of the digital divide that plagues many Black communities and stunts entrepreneurial growth. Our guest, Antwon Alsobrook, is leading the charge to change that and ensure everyone has the broadband access they need to succeed.   As a Black entrepreneur, inconsistent and unaffordable internet access can severely limit your opportunities, from connecting wit ..read more

When you think about funding your business, venture capital might be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, for Black entrepreneurs, accessing traditional VC funding can be an uphill battle, with less than 1% of VC capital going to Black-owned businesses. This episode of the Black to Business podcast dives deep into alternative funding paths that you can take to build and grow your business without relying solely on venture capital. Rodney Williams, the co-founder of SoLo Funds and other successful startups, shares his invaluable insights and personal experiences on how Black-owned businesse ..read more

Financial literacy isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and building a rock-solid foundation for success and economic empowerment, particularly within the Black entrepreneurial community. This episode is all about unlocking the potential of Black entrepreneurship through the amazing power of financial literacy. We’ve got the one and only John Hope Bryant on board to guide us through a journey into resilience, empowerment, and long-lasting success. We’re putting the spotlight on the pivotal role of financial knowledge, especially for Blac ..read more

Isolation is a common struggle for entrepreneurs, especially for Black business owners who face additional barriers and fewer resources. Finding a supportive community is crucial for mental health, staying informed, and fostering innovation. This episode dives into the importance of overcoming isolation and building your network to thrive both personally and professionally.   Joining us to discuss this vital topic is Shadé Akande, the Founder and CEO of ONE X LEAGUE. With over 18 years of experience in HR roles at industry leaders like Google and Walmart, Shadé brings a wealth of knowledg ..read more

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 unders ..read more