Advertise on podcast: Business of the Beat

You know you’re good at what you do. Does your brand make it clear why someone should hire you? On this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes Lauren Balterman, a positioning and brand strategist who draws on 15 years of experience as a therapist to help entrepreneurs communicate their value and become known for their expertise. Lauren traces her journey from mental health practice and professional bodybuilding to building businesses that connect her interests in psychology, wellness, and branding. She shares why credentials alone don’t always translate into customer trust—and how she learned to close the gap between what she could deliver and what people understood about her work. At the center of her approach is the “psychological signature”: the lived experiences, beliefs, and ways of solving problems that distinguish one expert from another. Lauren explains how identifying that foundation can help entrepreneurs sharpen their message while leaving room for their businesses to evolve. Kendra and Lauren also explore two familiar founder challenges: moving into a new field when everyone associates you with your previous company, and choosing a clear focus when you have multiple passions. Plus, they discuss where AI fits into brand building, why human reflection still matters, and how to introduce your work in a way that sparks curiosity and understanding. Listen for a conversation about confidence, reinvention, and building a brand that helps people recognize the value you already bring. Explore Lauren’s work and her Hidden Expert Archetype Quiz at LaurenNicole.life. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

How do you turn a lifetime of creativity into a business that reflects who you are? Jazz Smollett returns to Business of the Beat for part two of her conversation with Kendra Bracken-Ferguson, tracing her journey from working behind the scenes to co-hosting and executive producing Living by Design and building her lifestyle brand, Dreaming of Juniper. Jazz shares how an internship in theater, early production jobs, and mentorship from women in entertainment helped her develop her skills. She recalls creating a cooking show with her brother Jake for Los Angeles city buses, the path to Smollett Eats on Food Network, and how a cookbook appearance opened an unexpected door to Living by Design. The conversation then moves into the realities of becoming a product founder. From testing candles and developing a massage oil candle to launching a room spray and bringing products to Amazon, Jazz discusses learning financial discipline, accessing small-business resources, and building relationships with customers. She also reflects on discovering her ability to connect creative vision with the financial and operational demands of a business. Kendra and Jazz close with the possibilities ahead: deeper community connections, shared experiences, and a lifestyle brand rooted in the ways we eat, gather, travel, and make ourselves at home. Explore Dreaming of Juniper and subscribe to Jazz’s newsletter, On a Random Thursday. Follow @JazzSmollett and @DreamingofJuniper on Instagram. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

What we grow up creating can shape everything we build next. In part one of this conversation on Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes her longtime friend, creative collaborator, and business partner Jazz Smollett to explore the experiences behind her work as a designer, producer, television personality, and founder. The second of six siblings, Jazz shares stories of cross-country moves, family celebrations, and a mother who built furniture, sewed clothes, and taught her children to create what they needed. From homemade meals to the family table that anchored each new home, Jazz reflects on how resourcefulness and intentional togetherness shaped her approach to life. She also traces her path from childhood modeling and acting to studying theater at NYU, with experiences in Cape Town and Amsterdam expanding her understanding of art, identity, and storytelling. Along the way, she discusses finding confidence in her own education and recognizing the value of the Black writers and stories that informed her upbringing. It’s a personal conversation about family, friendship, and creating spaces where people feel seen. In part two, Jazz shares how those foundations became a career in television and a growing lifestyle brand. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

What makes a business stand out in a crowded market? For Danni Fernino, it starts with the person behind the brand. On this episode of **Business of the Beat**, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes the entrepreneur and business owner behind **Visions from Neptune** for a candid conversation about building beauty and wellness brands, choosing the right partners, and recognizing what drives a founder beyond their original idea. Danni shares how growing up in a family of entrepreneurs shaped her independent spirit—and how the challenges of COVID shifted her focus toward helping small businesses thrive. She explains why a founder’s motivation, willingness to adapt, and commitment to the work are central to the partnerships she pursues. Kendra and Danni also explore the hard conversations that come with growth. From helping founders loosen their grip to making decisions that serve the company and the families it supports, Danni introduces her approach to “heart posture”: leading with care while being honest about what needs to change. The conversation connects creative vision with execution, including branding, messaging, design, and the relationships that bring a portfolio of businesses together. Stay for a lively rapid-fire round covering founder red flags, customer retention, trusting your gut, and the “inborn magic” Danni looks for in an entrepreneur. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes Debbi Thomas, mindfulness coach and founder of Haven Inspired, for a conversation about self-awareness, challenging limiting beliefs, and making room for personal growth. Debbi shares her journey from recruiting—including helping others recognize their strengths at Meta—to creating meditation content that speaks directly to Black women. Now pursuing her master’s in counseling at Northwestern University, she reflects on how stepping into a new chapter has challenged old stories about her own capabilities. Together, Kendra and Debbi explore mindfulness beyond meditation: recognizing what you need, noticing how stress shows up in your body, and giving yourself permission to ask for help. They discuss journaling, faith, self-compassion, and the discomfort that can accompany meaningful change—especially when you’re balancing entrepreneurship, family, and your own well-being. Debbi also shares the meaning behind HAVEN: Healthy, Authentic, Vibrant, Empathetic, and Nourished. At the heart of her approach is a reminder that healing begins with being honest with yourself. Sometimes, the next step toward growth starts with acknowledging that you’re overwhelmed and allowing someone to support you. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

In this full-circle episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes back Dr. Omonye Phillips, founder of OmoSilk. When Omonye first appeared on the podcast in 2023, she was balancing motherhood, marriage, a major corporate leadership role, and a growing business inspired by her children’s sensitive-skin needs. Today, she has left corporate America, stepped into entrepreneurship full time, and expanded OmoSilk’s retail footprint to Target.com. Omonye shares what it took to bet on herself, the importance of having a supportive partner and trusted community, and why prayer, exercise, and daily routines keep her grounded through the unpredictable realities of entrepreneurship. She also discusses bootstrapping the company, managing inventory, protecting product innovation, and maintaining OmoSilk’s commitment to premium 100% mulberry silk. From patent-pending bonnet technology and silk wig caps to products supporting people experiencing alopecia, cancer treatment, and sensitive skin, Omonye’s journey demonstrates what can happen when purpose, consistency, and thoughtful innovation come together. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with executive, investor and author Fred Collins for an honest conversation inspired by his new book, Enough: The Journey from Approval Seeking to Authenticity. Fred reflects on how childhood insecurities shaped his pursuit of recognition, corporate success and financial achievement—and the personal cost of constantly chasing more. He shares how the absence and early loss of his father left him searching for validation through promotions, titles and the approval of others, even after he had built an accomplished career. The conversation explores Fred’s transition from leading major global brands to advising emerging founders, particularly women and founders of color. He discusses the differences between corporate resources and entrepreneurial realities, the importance of understanding your strengths and limitations, and why supporting the founder’s vision no longer requires him to be the person receiving the recognition. Fred and Kendra also examine authentic leadership, accountability, vulnerability and the sacrifices families make when professional ambition becomes all-consuming. Through lessons from his own career, Fred challenges listeners to stop defining themselves through titles, money or other people’s expectations—and begin building lives rooted in purpose, honesty and self-acceptance. Because being enough does not mean the work is finished. It means you no longer need achievement to prove your worth. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

What happens when you stop allowing other people—and your own invisible barriers—to define what is possible for your life? In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Tracy-Ann Palmer—also known as TAP the Warrior—a modern Renaissance woman whose journey spans corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, transformational coaching, authorship, and music. Tracy-Ann shares how growing up amid war in Zimbabwe, immigrating to South Africa, surviving domestic violence, and watching her mother battle Alzheimer’s shaped her determination to live fully and help others reach their potential. She also explores the connection between business and creativity, why money represents freedom, and how music became both a source of healing and a way to help others feel seen. The conversation examines authentic leadership, work-life integration, emotional intelligence, community, and the courage required to remove the mask and become who you were meant to be. Tracy-Ann also introduces the African principles of Sawubona—“I see you”—and Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—as reminders that transformation and success are never achieved alone. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Aditi Sharma, co-founder and COO of QOAT, to explore her full-circle journey from growing up in her mother’s salon to building an entirely new category in professional hair care. Aditi shares how her original plans for law school unexpectedly led her to L’Oréal, where mentors gave her the business education and confidence that helped shape her career. After leaving corporate beauty, she founded EGAD Talent, representing hairstylists and helping creative talent translate their influence into valuable brand partnerships. That work eventually reunited her with longtime collaborator Alfredo Lewis and inspired them to create QOAT—the professional hair-color topcoat designed to help stylists protect their work and clients preserve their investment. The conversation explores the difference between having a great idea and building a commercially viable company, the years of development behind a category-defining product, bootstrapping a startup, building with the right co-founder, and why the unglamorous foundations of operations, finance, distribution, and cash-flow management determine whether an innovative product ever reaches the shelf. Aditi also reflects on releasing the pressure of the “shoulds,” recognizing that ease does not mean a path is wrong, and using yoga, self-awareness, and the principle of impermanence to remain grounded while building at startup speed. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Tasha Turner, founder of Wrapped Beauty, to explore a career shaped by beauty, culture, creativity, and a deep understanding of the needs of women of color. Tasha takes us through her journey in the beauty industry, from working at prestigious magazines and witnessing the evolution of beauty standards to recognizing the influence and resilience of women of color in defining what beauty looks like. She and Kendra discuss how beauty and wellness have increasingly intersected—and why understanding the consumer means understanding the full experience of how she lives, feels, and cares for herself. That experience ultimately led Tasha from telling beauty stories to creating beauty solutions. She shares the story behind Wrapped Beauty and her move into product development, including the process of designing an innovative shower cap specifically with textured hair in mind. From protecting hair against water and humidity to testing, refining, and rethinking a product until it truly solves a problem, Tasha offers an inside look at what it takes to turn an idea into something consumers actually need. The conversation also explores authenticity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and the courage to keep creating. For Tasha, building Wrapped Beauty has been more than launching a brand—it has been about trusting her experience, embracing the iterative process, and discovering a new sense of freedom in entrepreneurship. 🎧 Listen to Business of the Beat and hear how Tasha Turner turned years of beauty expertise into a brand designed to solve real problems for textured hair. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Business of the Beat, host Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Malinda Sanna, founder and CEO of LookLook, a consumer insights platform specializing in luxury market research. Malinda shares her unconventional journey from studying classical music and literature to entrepreneurship and building LookLook without outside venture funding. She and Kendra explore how curiosity, community, and genuine human relationships helped shape the business—and why treating research participants as valued members of a community rather than simply data points has become central to LookLook’s approach. Malinda also gets candid about the realities behind entrepreneurship. After experiencing rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, she faced the difficult challenge of downsizing as the market shifted. She reflects on what that experience taught her about leadership, resilience, and knowing when growth isn’t necessarily the only measure of success. The conversation also looks toward the future of consumer insights, including AI’s growing role in market research, the importance of preserving authenticity in an increasingly technology-driven world, and the changing nature of influence as consumers place greater trust in peers and communities rather than traditional celebrity endorsements. And behind all the business strategy is an equally important conversation about the entrepreneur herself. Melinda shares how self-awareness, wellness practices, and creating space outside of work help her navigate the demands of leadership without losing herself in the process. It’s a conversation about building differently, adapting when the market changes, and remembering that even in an age of AI and data, business is still fundamentally about people. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

On this episode of Business of the Beat, hosts Kendra Bracken Ferguson and LaShasta Bell sit down with Jessica Butcher and Amanda Konko, co-founders of Little Seed Match, to discuss how they're creating a more human-centered approach to surrogacy—one rooted in trust, transparency, and meaningful relationships. Drawing from their own fertility journeys, Jessica and Amanda share the inspiration behind building a community that prioritizes connection between intended parents and surrogates, while challenging the transactional nature of traditional surrogacy models. They discuss the cultural stigma surrounding infertility, the importance of inclusivity, and why emotional support is just as critical as medical care throughout the family-building process. The conversation also explores how Little Seed Match is reimagining the future of surrogacy by fostering intentional relationships, creating safe spaces for families and surrogates, and building a community where compassion leads the way. Through candid storytelling and thoughtful insights, they reveal how purpose, faith, and innovation continue to shape their growing movement. Whether you're navigating your own fertility journey, interested in women's health and entrepreneurship, or inspired by founders building businesses with heart, this episode offers a powerful conversation about resilience, connection, and redefining what support truly looks like. Find more conversations like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media App.

On this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson sits down with Shena Moreau for a powerful conversation about the connection between entrepreneurship, emotional well-being, and holistic healing. Together, they explore how unresolved trauma can influence both our personal lives and business decisions, and why true success begins with self-awareness. Shena shares her personal journey of healing, offering insight into the ways trauma can manifest in the body and the importance of integrating both traditional and modern wellness practices. From breathwork and somatic healing to learning how to listen to your body's signals, she explains why healing isn't just personal—it's a leadership strategy. The conversation also explores the unique challenges founders face, including the pressure to stay in control, the importance of intentional rest, and how reconnecting with your emotions can unlock greater creativity, resilience, and purpose. Shena also introduces her new **Embody CEO** program, designed to help entrepreneurs lead from a place of wholeness by embracing a holistic approach to business and life. Whether you're building a company, navigating personal growth, or searching for practical ways to prioritize your well-being, this episode is a reminder that your greatest business asset is you. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share the podcast.

On this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson welcomes Dr. Aisha Pandor, entrepreneur, health tech innovator, and advocate for a more personalized approach to healthcare. Dr. Pandor shares her inspiring journey from an inquisitive child with a passion for science to building innovative health technology solutions while navigating her own experience with chronic health conditions. Together, they explore how personal experiences can fuel purpose-driven entrepreneurship and why community is essential to transforming healthcare. Kendra and Dr. Pandor discuss the powerful connection between gut health, mental wellness, and overall well-being, while challenging traditional approaches to women's health. They also dive into the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and extending ourselves grace as we make decisions about our health and wellness. From breaking long-standing taboos surrounding women's health to embracing a future of personalized care, this conversation is both insightful and empowering for entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and anyone committed to living a healthier, more intentional life.

What if the key to unlocking your next level of success is simply learning to celebrate how far you've already come? On this episode of Business of the Beat, Kendra and LaShasta sit down with entrepreneur and communications expert Lisa Simone Richards for an empowering conversation about overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing confidence, and creating sustainable success as a woman in business. Lisa shares her personal journey from battling self-doubt to building a thriving business and a supportive community for women entrepreneurs. Together, they explore why even the most accomplished leaders struggle with imposter syndrome, how celebrating small and big wins can rewire the brain for greater confidence, and why journaling is one of the most powerful tools for tracking growth and recognizing progress. The conversation also dives into the science of celebration, the connection between the nervous system and entrepreneurship, and how intentional morning and evening rituals can improve focus, productivity, and overall well-being. Lisa also offers insights into co-founding a business with a partner, cultivating gratitude, and developing the mindset needed to visualize success before it becomes reality. Whether you're launching your first venture, scaling your business, or simply looking for the confidence to take your next bold step, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiring reminders that your accomplishments deserve to be recognized. Listen now and discover why celebrating your journey may be the most important business strategy you haven't embraced yet. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app. Follow, rate, comment, and share!