Advertise on podcast: Business First w/Sonia Alleyne

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with 90s R&B artist Yvette Michele for a soulful and inspiring conversation about her return to music and her new single, “Mr. DJ.” Yvette reflects on the nostalgia of the 90s era while sharing what it takes to navigate today’s fast-paced, technology-driven music industry. She opens up about overcoming insecurities, staying authentic in a constantly evolving landscape, and how community support has played a key role in her journey. The conversation also dives into Yvette’s unique ability to blend her creative talents with her background in technology and marketing—showing how artists can build sustainable careers beyond just the music. She discusses her songwriting evolution, the importance of perspective, and the personal growth tools that have helped her reclaim her voice. Looking ahead, Yvette shares her excitement for new collaborations and expanding her reach internationally, particularly in the UK and beyond. This episode is a powerful reminder that reinvention is always possible—and that your voice still matters, no matter where you are in your journey. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this dynamic episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with visionary entrepreneur Jeff Watkins, the force behind Overflow—an AI-powered film distribution platform reshaping the industry. Jeff shares his journey of building a disruptive model that leverages AI to amplify storytelling, empower creators, and open doors for underrepresented voices in film. From navigating fear and taking bold risks to developing proprietary tools that increase efficiency, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to innovate in a rapidly evolving landscape. The discussion also highlights the critical role of community in supporting diverse storytellers, the power of authentic narratives, and how AI is becoming a true equalizer across industries. Jeff reflects on the importance of inner work, overcoming ego, and committing to continuous self-learning as key drivers of both personal and professional growth. If you’re interested in innovation, storytelling, and building with purpose, this episode delivers both inspiration and strategy. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Be sure to follow, rate, comment, and share to stay connected and inspired.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with entrepreneur and restaurateur Andre Truss to discuss how discipline, leadership, and purpose shaped his journey from the United States Marine Corps to building a thriving restaurant business. Andre shares how the leadership principles he learned in the Marines helped him design strong business systems, build effective teams, and create a culture rooted in authenticity and community. The conversation explores the importance of structure, intentional leadership, and spiritual grounding in sustaining long-term success in business. Through personal stories and practical insights, Andre explains how thoughtful system design and a commitment to people can transform a simple idea into a scalable and impactful enterprise. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app and be sure to follow, rate, comment, and share.

In this dynamic episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with visionary entrepreneur Jeff Watkins, the force behind Overflow—an AI-powered film distribution platform reshaping the industry. Jeff shares his journey of building a disruptive model that leverages AI to amplify storytelling, empower creators, and open doors for underrepresented voices in film. From navigating fear and taking bold risks to developing proprietary tools that increase efficiency, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to innovate in a rapidly evolving landscape. The discussion also highlights the critical role of community in supporting diverse storytellers, the power of authentic narratives, and how AI is becoming a true equalizer across industries. Jeff reflects on the importance of inner work, overcoming ego, and committing to continuous self-learning as key drivers of both personal and professional growth. If you’re interested in innovation, storytelling, and building with purpose, this episode delivers both inspiration and strategy. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Be sure to follow, rate, comment, and share to stay connected and inspired.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with entrepreneur and restaurateur Andre Truss to discuss how discipline, leadership, and purpose shaped his journey from the United States Marine Corps to building a thriving restaurant business. Andre shares how the leadership principles he learned in the Marines helped him design strong business systems, build effective teams, and create a culture rooted in authenticity and community. The conversation explores the importance of structure, intentional leadership, and spiritual grounding in sustaining long-term success in business. Through personal stories and practical insights, Andre explains how thoughtful system design and a commitment to people can transform a simple idea into a scalable and impactful enterprise. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app and be sure to follow, rate, comment, and share.

In this episode of *Business First*, sleep strategist and corporate wellness expert **LaShasta Bell** joins the conversation to break down why sleep is one of the most overlooked drivers of success in business and life. LaShasta shares powerful insights into how sleep impacts our mental clarity, physical health, and emotional resilience—especially for entrepreneurs and professionals who often operate in “hustle mode.” She explains how chronic sleep deprivation affects productivity, decision-making, and long-term wellness, and why companies must begin prioritizing rest as a core part of corporate wellness strategies. Throughout the discussion, LaShasta offers practical tools and actionable strategies for improving sleep habits, integrating wellness into workplace culture, and shifting from constant hustle to a more sustainable rhythm of harmony and balance. If you’ve ever sacrificed sleep in the name of productivity, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what true performance and success really look like.

On this inspiring episode of Business First Podcast, Rick Ross shares how he transitioned from success in the music industry to becoming a serial entrepreneur committed to community impact through running, education, and service. Rick breaks down the importance of mastering the business side of music, creating unforgettable customer experiences in his running store, and building a nonprofit rooted in access, opportunity, and wellness. From entrepreneurship to purpose-driven leadership, this conversation highlights how serving others, promoting health, and staying grounded in mission can turn passion into lasting impact for both business and community.

In this episode of #BusinessFirst, host #SoniaAlleyne sits down with award-winning filmmaker and music supervisor #LinnetteHarrigan for a powerful conversation at the intersection of #Music, #Film, and #Business.

In this episode of #BusinessFirstPodcast, host #SoniaAlleyne sits down with #KimDickerson and #DeniseKaigler, co-founders of #MahoganyMates, a social engagement business creating intentional spaces for Black singles over 50 to build real, meaningful connections. The conversation explores their old-school approach to dating in a digital world, the realities of launching a niche business, and the importance of fostering community over algorithms. Kim and Denise break down Mahogany Mates’ programming — from local in-person events to online mingles — and address the stigma surrounding singlehood, particularly among #BlackMen, while challenging outdated narratives about relationships and aging. This episode also offers honest reflections on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the vision behind building a business rooted in connection, purpose, and cultural understanding.

In this episode of the **Business First Podcast**, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with Vanessa and Dallas Streeter, the mother-and-son duo behind **PJs for the Culture**, a pajama brand rooted in cultural pride and representation. Vanessa and Dallas share the inspiration behind creating holiday pajamas that reflect Black culture and identity, and how a simple idea turned into a growing business. The conversation explores the realities of product development, from concept to production, and the challenges they faced bringing their vision to life. They also discuss what it’s like navigating entrepreneurship as a family, balancing roles as mother and son while building a brand together. Along the way, they reflect on the overwhelming support from their community, the importance of listening to customer feedback, and how that feedback continues to shape their business decisions. Looking ahead, Vanessa and Dallas share their plans for expansion, new product lines, and how they hope to continue creating products that celebrate culture while building generational impact. This episode is an inspiring look at family, entrepreneurship, and building a business with purpose.

In this episode, Sonia Alleyne interviews Joel Boissier, the VP of Business Development and Partnerships at CHIP, a fintech platform designed to connect individuals with financial professionals. Joel shares his background as a financial advisor and discusses the importance of accessible financial advice, especially for communities of color. The conversation covers how CHIP operates, the significance of finding the right financial advisor, and the resources available through the platform. Joel emphasizes the need for financial education and the role of CHIP in fostering financial literacy and support for both individuals and small businesses. In this episode of the Business First Podcast, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with Joel Boissier, Vice President of Business Development and Partnerships at CHIP, a fintech platform focused on connecting individuals and small businesses with trusted financial professionals. Joel shares his background as a financial advisor and explains how that experience shaped his mission to make quality financial guidance more accessible—particularly for communities of color that have historically been underserved by traditional financial institutions. The conversation breaks down how CHIP works, why finding the right financial advisor matters, and how personalized financial support can lead to stronger long-term outcomes. This episode also explores the importance of financial education, building confidence around money decisions, and the role technology can play in closing knowledge and access gaps. Joel highlights the tools and resources CHIP offers to empower individuals and entrepreneurs to take control of their financial futures.

In this re released episode of Business First, Sonia sits down with artist and entrepreneur Sharon A. Keyser, owner of #SKCreationsLLC, to explore how a childhood love of sewing blossomed into a thriving fashion and lifestyle brand. Born and raised in #WashingtonDC, Sharon learned to sew from her great-grandmother, sparking a lifelong passion for textiles, bold colors, and beautiful fabrics. Over the years, her creativity led her to develop original designs that now appear on everything from apparel and bags to home décor, tech accessories, linens, and more. Sonia and Sharon talk about the early days of her craft, the evolution of her business, and the joy of turning artistic passion into a sustainable creative enterprise. If you love stories about artistry, entrepreneurship, and staying true to your gifts, this conversation is for you. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

In this episode of Business First, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with Brian Thompson, founder of Brian Thompson Financial LLC, for a powerful conversation on authenticity, alignment, and the entrepreneurial journey—especially for LGBTQ+ business owners. Brian opens up about his transition from tax attorney to financial planner, sharing how embracing his true self reshaped his life and business. Together, they explore the role of personal values in driving meaningful work, the courage it takes to build a purpose-led business, and the transformative breakthroughs clients experience when they align money with identity. Brian also reflects on the importance of gratitude, community, and support systems for entrepreneurs navigating uncertainty and growth. This inspiring conversation offers a deeply human look at what it means to build a business—and a life—that reflects who you truly are. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share.

In this re-release of the Business First Podcast, host Sonia Alleyne sits down with Chef Rock Harper, award-winning chef, restaurateur, and culinary trailblazer, for an inspiring conversation on reclaiming culinary rights and honoring the cultural legacy of soul food. Chef Rock dives deep into the rich history of fried chicken—its roots in African American tradition, its global influence, and its power as a symbol of resilience and creativity. He also discusses the challenges and triumphs of running Black-owned food businesses and why specialization and authenticity are key to long-term success in today’s restaurant industry. From his journey as a Hell’s Kitchen champion to the growth of his acclaimed restaurant Queen Mother’s Fried Chicken, Chef Rock shares valuable lessons on leadership, purpose, and building community through food. As he continues to expand his culinary footprint, including the upcoming launch of D.C.’s first no-phones bar, Chef Rock remains a voice for empowerment and innovation in the food world. This episode is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose — and purpose into legacy. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment, and share to keep the conversation growing.

In this inspiring episode of the Business First Podcast, Sabrina Lamb, CEO of Wekeza, shares her mission to close the wealth gap for the African diaspora through accessible, multilingual financial education. She opens up about the creation of Wekeza, the importance of teaching financial literacy in native languages, and her vision for a global, pan-African investment platform that empowers communities to build and sustain generational wealth. Sabrina also reflects on her transformative time in Tulsa—once the home of Black Wall Street—and how that experience deepened her understanding of financial liberty and the “soul work” behind true economic empowerment. With future plans to make investing more inclusive and community-driven, this episode is a masterclass in purpose, vision and empowerment. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app. Follow, rate, comment and share to keep the conversation growing.