Black Tech Green Money

Ep. 209 Morgan DeBaun is a serial entrepreneur, executive and corporate advisor. As the Founder & CEO of Blavity Inc., the leading digital media company for Black culture and millennials, Morgan has grown the company into a market leader for Black media, reaching over 100 million readers per month through a growing brand portfolio whichincludes: Blavity News, 21Ninety, AfroTech, Travel Noire, Shadow & Act, and Blavity TV. Her book, Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedom, is out today. Click to find it on Amazon. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 208 Thai Randolph is a groundbreaking CEO, award-winning producer, and serial entrepreneur who has mastered the art of turning culture into capital. As the co-founder and former CEO of HARTBEAT, Thai led the merger of Kevin Hart’s entertainment companies into a $650 million media empire, raising one of the largest funding rounds ever by a Black woman in the process. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 207 Megan Holston-Alexander is a partner at Andreessen Horowitz where she leads the Cultural Leadership Fund (CLF), Silicon Valley’s first venture capital fund consisting exclusively of Black cultural leaders and organizations committed to Black wealth generation. Megan oversees CLF’s dual missions of connecting the world’s greatest cultural leaders including athletes, entertainers, musicians and C-level executives, to the best new technology companies and engaging and elevating African Americans in the technology industry. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 206 Justin Grant is a Corporate Executive and Author of Company Men, A Wellness Guide for Black Men in Corporate America - which is out now. In this conversation, we explore how Black men (and women for that matter) can leverage their corporate careers to build generational wealth and how mandates like full return-to-office policies impact Black professionals. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 205 Carolyn Rodz is a Latina entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Hello Alice, an AI-powered platform that connects small business owners to capital, mentorship, and opportunities. With over 1 million entrepreneurs on the platform and partnerships with major corporations, Hello Alice is proving that diversity isn’t just good for business—it’s essential. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 203 Omar Johnson is the marketing genius who helped turn Beats by Dre from a $20 million startup into a $1.1 billion global icon, ultimately leading to its $3 billion acquisition by Apple. As the former Chief Marketing Officer at Beats by Dre and VP of Marketing at Apple, Omar has crafted some of the most legendary marketing campaigns in sports and music culture, working with icons like LeBron James, Chris Rock, and Eminem. From his groundbreaking ambush marketing strategies to his work in fusing music, sports, and tech, Omar has reshaped how brands connect with consumers. And now, as the founder of ØPUS Intelligence, he’s continuing to drive change—building world-class brands, championing diversity, and pushing for equity in corporate America. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 202 Carter Cofield and George Acheampong are financial experts behind Melanin Money, dedicated to helping Black entrepreneurs and professionals build lasting wealth. Together, they're building the #1 Financial Education Community Designed to serve aspiring Melanin Millionaires. Carter Cofield is the Owner & Lead Advisor of Cofield Advisors, LLC, where he helps creative entrepreneurs take control of their finances so they can focus on their zone of genius. He’s a CPA and Personal Financial Specialist (PFS), providing a one-stop shop for tax strategy, wealth building, and financial freedom. George Acheampong is the Founder of Capitalwize and the Melanin Millionaires Club, a financial education platform helping 100,000 people of color achieve their first million in net worth. As a Forbes contributor and award-winning wealth manager, he’s revolutionizing traditional financial advice to accelerate wealth-building for Black professionals and entrepreneurs. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 201 Lauren Harwell Godfrey, Founder and Designer at Harwell Godfrey, shares how her background in advertising and fine dining shaped her journey into fine jewelry, creating a brand known for bold, geometric designs inspired by the African Diaspora and crafted with ethically sourced gemstones. On this episode, Lauren speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about building a luxury brand with purpose, the role of technology in jewelry design and production, and how she balances artistry, philanthropy, and business growth—while keeping storytelling at the heart of it all. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 200 On this episode, AfroTech’s Will Lucas looks back on how Black Tech Green Money became a reality from a simple thought in the mind, and we look back on how the show has grown, its impact, and even get a re-listen of the very first episode. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... Black Tech Green Money! Ep. 186 In this episode of Black Tech Green Money, AfroTech's Will Lucas chats with Nicky Saunders, Content Strategist at Deeper Than The Brand, to explore the powerful strategies behind turning social media followers into loyal customers. Nicky, best known for scaling motivational speaker Eric Thomas’s online community from 300K to 2M, shares her insights on how entrepreneurs and small business owners can grow their digital footprint with authenticity and purpose. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 199 Tyrre Burks, Founder and CEO at Player's Health, explains how his personal experiences as a collegiate and professional athlete inspired him to create a platform that prioritizes athlete health and safety, revolutionizing risk management and insurance solutions for sports organizations. On this episode, Tyrre speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about his mission to create safer environments for athletes, including the role of technology in modernizing the sports insurance industry, addressing abuse prevention in youth sports, and fostering greater transparency in risk management. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 198 Erin Harkless Moore, Managing Director of Investments at Pivotal Ventures, a Melinda French Gates company, discusses her work leading fund and direct investment decisions to drive social progress in the U.S. Erin breaks down the economic potential of the $648 billion care economy, highlighting the massive opportunity for innovation across childcare, eldercare, mental health, and women’s health.  On this episode, Erin speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about her perspective on how the convergence of AI, public policy, and inclusive entrepreneurship can accelerate progress, and why creating a more diverse tech ecosystem can unlock solutions to some of society’s most urgent problems. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 197 Will Lucas is the Brand Manager at AfroTech and Black Tech Green Money, sharing insights on how Black professionals and entrepreneurs can build lasting wealth through technology. But beyond the mic, he’s also a seasoned entrepreneur running multiple businesses, including Creadio, a marketing technology agency, and TolHouse, a private social club designed for the creative and entrepreneurial class in Toledo, Ohio. On this solo episode, Will reflects on the lessons of 2024 and shares his strategic game plan for 2025. He discusses how to avoid burnout, the importance of building systems for sustainable growth, and why staying stagnant means falling behind. Plus, he highlights how his businesses are leveraging AI for efficiency, how he’s scaling his real estate ventures, and why creating space in your life is key to achieving your goals. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Hawkins, aka Hawk, is a former NFL wide receiver, having played 6 seasons in the league with teams like Bengals, the Browns, and the Patriots. Today, he’s a media personality AND co-founder at StatusPro, an athlete led technology company, which makes software for training and consumer entertainment.  On this episode, Hawk speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about how to secure A-List celebrity investors, NFL contracts, and the future of VR gaming. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2024 draws to a close, we look back on some of the memorable moments from the last 12 months of Black Tech Green Money! This week's compilation features wisdom from C David Moody, Monique Idlett, Erica Duignan Minnihan, and Udonis Haslem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fonz Morris is Lead Product Designer, Global Conversion at Netflix. He’s an entrepreneur and self-taught designer, leading one of the most impactful teams inside one of the biggest tech and media companies on the planet. He’s travelled all around the world on his self-driven educational adventures, and prior to joining Netflix, he led a design team at Coursera. On this episode, Fonz speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about unlocking success as a product designer and the tools you’ll need, how impactful travel has been to his design worldview, and how to design for conversion. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

--Originally aired on March 1st, 2022-- On this episode, Will Lucas, AfroTech Brand Manager and host/producer of Black Tech Green Money discusses the differences between various crypto wallet types, and which you should go with if you prefer simplicity over security. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2024 draws to a close, we look back on some of the memorable moments from the last year of Black Tech Green Money! This week's compilation features wisdom from Lanny Smith, Nicky Saunders, and John Hope Bryant.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 196 Jamé Jackson is a community manager at LinkedIn, helping thousands of professionals amplify their voices and build their personal brands. But that’s just her 9-to-5. As the founder of TheBlondeMisfit and Misfit Creative Media, she’s an award-winning journalist, actor, and content creator who’s turned her side hustle into a global brand. On this episode, Jamé shares how Black representation in media is evolving, why creators need to protect their contributions, and how AI is shaping the future of storytelling. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building a large business in the beauty, barber, and wellness industries is no easy feat. These sectors are ripe for competition, and historically, don't scale. On todays episode, Will Lucas, Brand Manager at AfroTech talks with entrepreneurs who've built million dollar enterprises in an industry that is known for being a hodge-podge of hustlers with no actual business operations to see how they did it, and you can too. *Originally published April 5, 2022* Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tré Baker is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and author dedicated to advancing Black economic leadership and fostering innovation. With a diverse portfolio of over 80 angel investments and extensive experience founding and operating companies across industries like renewable energy, blockchain, and consumer goods, Tré is a seasoned leader in the startup ecosystem. As the former Managing Director of the Build in Tulsa Techstars Accelerator, Tré championed early-stage companies and fostered an ecosystem of innovation in Tulsa's tight-knit and resource-rich startup community. On this episode, Tré speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about the role of AI in shaping Black economic self-determination, building sustainable startup communities, strategies for investing in pre-seed companies, and the lessons he’s learned from his entrepreneurial journey. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucasFollow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aaron Samuels is Founder and Managing Partner of Collide Capital, a $66M fund, and the first VC fund to be simultaneously backed by Amazon, Alphabet, and Twitter. He is also the co-founder and former COO of Blavity, the largest global Black media company for Millennials and Gen-Z, and AfroTech, the world’s largest Black tech conference. Aaron began his professional journey as a spoken word artist before transitioning into strategy consulting at Bain & Co. and later serving as a Product Manager at TeleSign. On this episode, Aaron speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about his journey to becoming a venture capitalist, the creation of his $66 million fund, and the opportunities and challenges in supporting underrepresented founders in today’s legal and economic landscape. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucasFollow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.comLearn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Hope Bryant is an entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist, best known for his work in economic empowerment and financial literacy. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE, Inc., a nonprofit organization providing financial literacy and economic education to underserved communities. Bryant has been a vocal advocate for financial inclusion and has worked tirelessly to uplift communities through initiatives aimed at improving credit scores, increasing homeownership, and fostering entrepreneurship. In this episode of Black Tech Green Money, Bryant talks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about the nature of money, describing it as a "coward" that seeks safety and high returns. He emphasizes the importance of building relationship capital and the value of strategic partnerships. Bryant also discusses the misconceptions around debt, explaining the difference between good and bad debt, and highlights the importance of financial literacy as a new civil rights issue. He encourages listeners to think beyond making money to building wealth through investments in education, relationships, and smart financial strategies. The conversation underscores the need for a comprehensive business plan and the significance of creating scalable businesses to foster long-term economic growth in the Black community. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 192 Ameer Brown is the co-founder and CTO of Breakr, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing the way artists, influencers, and brands connect to break new music and shape culture. Breakr is backed by prominent investors like Nas, Andreessen Horowitz, and Slow Ventures, and has created opportunities for creators and brands alike, helping them save costs, streamline processes, and build direct-to-creator relationships at scale. On this episode, Ameer speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about the inspiration behind Breakr, the journey to securing support from industry giants, and the challenges of disrupting the music-tech space as a Black entrepreneur. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 191 Mandela SH Dixon is a startup executive, investor, and board member. She's the former CEO of All Raise and Founder Gym, where she focused on making tech more inclusive and accessible for underrepresented founders. As one of the first Black women to raise venture capital in Silicon Valley, Mandela has paved the way for countless others and now serves as an executive coach, helping high-performing founders and executives lead with purpose. She MC'd the very first AfroTech in 2016. On this episode, she chat's with AfroTech's Will Lucas about life since that first AfroTech. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shontay Lundy is the Founder and CEO of Black Girl Sunscreen, a pioneering brand created to address the sun care needs of Black and Brown skin. Launched in 2016, Black Girl Sunscreen has grown from a single product to a trusted line available in major retailers like Target and Ulta. On this episode, Shontay speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about building Black Girl Sunscreen from the ground up, including the challenges of funding her vision and breaking into the beauty industry. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... Black Tech Green Money! Marketing Strategist Mahdi Woodard is an innovative thinker with broad business acumen and in-depth marketing and branding experience. He serves as a marketing Consultant and Chief Marketing Officer, and was previously a Marketing Brand Analyst and Associate Brand Manager at Mars Petcare which is home to Iams, Pedigree and more, and he was Brand Manager at Newell Brands, home to Rubbermaid, Graco, and Paper Mate. His social media profiles teach others how to grow online and monetize their content. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DeMarcus Shawn is one of the funniest people on Tik Tok, reaching over 6.6 million followers on TikTok and a million more on Instagram. Known for his relatable humor, DeMarcus has become a master of online entertainment, crafting skits and engaging videos that resonate across audiences and platforms. But his path to full-time content creation wasn’t always straightforward. In this episode, DeMarcus speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas to share insights on what it takes to grow massive followings on multiple platforms, build a sustainable income through content creation, and stay authentic while adapting to the demands of the digital world. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

C. David Moody, Jr., is the President and CEO of C.D. Moody Construction, one of the largest Black-owned construction companies in the nation. With a career that spans over three decades, Moody has built iconic projects like the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Maynard H. Jackson International Concourse, while navigating the complexities of the construction industry. On this episode, Moody speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about lessons on how Black entrepreneurs can thrive in competitive industries, securing major contracts, and leveraging technology for growth. Moody also opens up about his personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and how it has shaped his approach to leadership and community service. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 187 Ross Mac is the founder of Maconomics, a financial literacy media company dedicated to empowering urban communities. He brings a wealth of knowledge as a former Wall Street professional for Morgan Stanley and Grosvenor Capital. Ross talks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about the importance of finding reliable financial information, taking advantage of emerging financial technologies, and the foundational steps to building wealth. Tune in for a rich discussion on wealth-building, entrepreneurship, and the misconceptions that often hinder our financial growth. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers actionable insights to help you succeed. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 185 Aaron Russell is Director, Edge Network Infrastructure at Meta. He’s been with the tech giant for nearly a decade. Aaron has initiated and led critical Internet infrastructure projects connecting the unconnected people in the emerging markets, especially in Africa. Aaron is a creative; a former contributor for Huffington Post, a filmmaker, and a diversity and inclusion champion at Meta. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 184 Udonis Haslem is a three-time NBA Champion, Miami HEAT legend, and NBA TV Analyst. He's now teaming up with Wells Fargo and the Rebuilding Together organization to make a lasting impact in the community by providing critical home repairs and safety modifications for families in need. Udonis is a businessman, philanthropist, and advocate for underserved communities, and this partnership furthers his efforts to uplift and inspire the next generation in his hometown of Miami, Florida. Plus a look back to my chat with Derrick Faulcon of Cloudy Donut. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sheena Allen is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, investor, and creative architect. Her fintech startup, CapWay, focuses on creating economic access and opportunities for all through inclusive financial products and services, including banking, content, payments, and more. With Capway, she became the youngest female in America to own and operate a digital bank. Today she’s working on AI tools and other technology to help non-technical or early coders create mobile applications. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reign Ventures is an early stage investment firm that focuses on women and minority-led startups, investing at the Seed and Series A Stage in promising technology and tech-enabled startups with high-potential founders. Monique Idlett is the Founder and Managing Partner, Erica Duignan Minnihan is Founder and General Partner. Monique is a globally recognized entertainment pioneer. Prior to founding Reign Venture Capital she served as CEO to Mosley Brands and Mosley Music Group, home to a multi-platinum roster of artists, including iconic producer Timbaland, One Republic, Nelly Furtado, and others. She brings over two decades of unprecedented success as a CEO working in entertainment, marketing, press, and entrepreneurship. Erica has been an active investor in and advisor to early-stage companies for over 15 years. Before launching Reign, she was Founding Partner of 1000 Angels, Managing Director at DreamIt Ventures and Executive Director at both STAR Angel Network and Golden Seeds. Prior to beginning a career in venture, she practiced Investment Banking at Citigroup, Credit Suisse and Cantor Fitzgerald. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Telva McGruder is the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at General Motors, and has spent more than 28 years at the company - starting as an engineer. Today, she’s focused on weaving DEI into the fabric of the company, working in partnership with internal and external leaders to champion the broad and diverse workforce. On this episode recorded at the 2022 AfroTech Conference in Austin Texas, Telva speaks with Blavity Co-founder and COO Jeff Nelson about corporate commitments to DEI, electric vehicles, and why Black people should care about the future of EV. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 179 Randall Yarborough is a multidisciplinary designer with professional experience in sporting equipment, apparel, and footwear. He was Senior Footwear Designer at YEEZY, working under Ye (Kanye West), and recently launched his own company, Joyshed, an athletic shorts brand. On this episode, Randall speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about the technical aspects of design and how to balance moving fashion design forward artistically while still driving market demand. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Nelson is known as “the Relatable CTO” for his ability to take very complex technology solutions and help others understand how and why to implement them to benefit themselves and their businesses. Jeff is driving innovation in technology, business, culture, and public policy. Along with being known as “the Relatable CTO”, Jeff is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Blavity Inc, the leading company for Black culture and millennials, and the Founder and CEO of Cinchapi Inc., a real-time software platform for data discovery, analytics, and automation. His companies have combined to raise over $13 million in venture funding, generated millions in recurring revenue and created dozens of jobs for women and underrepresented people. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rodney Williams is Co-Founder and President at Solo Funds, one of the leading financial technology companies for underserved communities. On this episode, Rodney speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about how to launch a fintech startup MVP with no venture capital, how challenging disruption can be in a highly regulated industry, and finding success when facing existential threats. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chaucer Barnes is Chief Marketing Officer of Translation + United Masters, the parent company of award-winning creative agency Translation, and artist services platform UnitedMasters. In creating a new normal for the way brands and creators alike mint and trade cultural capital, Chaucer applies tools and lessons from every chapter of his life – as a media planner, brand strategist, creative director, partnership architect, and independent musician. In this episode, Chaucer speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about how advertising has embraced culture, the challenges marketers and advertisers face with trying to break through the noise, and strategic content creation. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mckeever 'Mac' Conwell is Founder & Managing Partner of RareBreed Ventures, a pre-seed fund that invests in exceptional founders primarily outside of large tech ecosystems, typically first money in, or, at least earlier than most investors. He’s one of the most prominent voices in tech on X (formerly Twitter), and his funds success is largely founded on his public persona. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 174 In this episode of Black Tech Green Money, I dive into the essential gear you need to start a highly rated podcast. Whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade your setup, I’ve got you covered with recommendations for every budget. I’ll walk you through the best recording software, hardware recorders, microphones, audio interfaces, storage solutions, hosting services, and communication tools to ensure your podcast sounds professional and runs smoothly. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com Links to the items I mentioned in the episode: Apple Logic Pro X [LINK] Adobe Audition [LINK] Audacity [LINK] Zoom H6 Six-Track Portable Recorder [LINK]RODECaster Pro [LINK] Tascam DR-05 [LINK] Shure SM7B [LINK] Rode NT1 [LINK] Sennheiser e 835 [LINK] Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 [LINK] LaCie Rugged USB-C, 4TB [LINK] Libsyn [LINK] Riverside.fm [LINK] Zoom [LINK] Google Meet [LINK] Podbean [LINK] Soundcloud [LINK] Dropbox [LINK] Google Drive [LINK] SanDisk SD Memory Card [LINK] Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD [LINK] Blue Yeti USB Microphone [LINK]See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 173 In this episode of Black Tech Green Money, Ceci Kurzman talks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about her impressive background as a private investor, entrepreneur, and independent board member. With a history as a former music executive and talent manager, Ceci has guided the careers and business strategies of some of the biggest artists in the world and has held board positions with prominent companies like Revlon, Cirque du Soleil, Warner Music Group, and United Talent Agency. Ceci shares her insights on the current media landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with innovation in the media sector. They discuss the pitfalls of the venture model, the impact of overvaluation, and the importance of sustainable business practices. Ceci also explores the future of media, emphasizing the role of individual content creators and the democratization of social media platforms. As the leader of Nexus Management Group, Ceci explains why she focuses on growth stage companies and how she leverages her brand-building expertise to add value to these businesses. She delves into her transition from the music industry to private investment, her operational involvement with portfolio companies, and her dedication to expanding diversity on corporate boards. This episode offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in media innovation, investment strategies, and the importance of representation in boardrooms. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 172 Brandon Butler is Partner + Chief Culture & Innovation Officer @ Majority // CEO @ Butter.ATL, an Atlanta-based media company covering all things Atlanta, from sports and news to food and music. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram at @willlucas Learn more at AfroTech.com https://instagram.com/afro.tech Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 171 Damali Peterman is a highly regarded and sought-after lawyer, mediator, negotiator, educator, and speaker with nearly 20 years of experience in the alternative dispute resolution field. She is the founder and CEO of two companies—Breakthrough ADR, and Damali Law. On this episode of Black Tech Green Money, Damali talks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about the high stakes negotiations, getting compensated at the level you deserve, and the evolution of mediation. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 170 John Hope Bryant is an entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist, best known for his work in economic empowerment and financial literacy. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE, Inc., a nonprofit organization providing financial literacy and economic education to underserved communities. Bryant has been a vocal advocate for financial inclusion and has worked tirelessly to uplift communities through initiatives aimed at improving credit scores, increasing homeownership, and fostering entrepreneurship. In this episode of Black Tech Green Money, Bryant talks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about the nature of money, describing it as a "coward" that seeks safety and high returns. He emphasizes the importance of building relationship capital and the value of strategic partnerships. Bryant also discusses the misconceptions around debt, explaining the difference between good and bad debt, and highlights the importance of financial literacy as a new civil rights issue. He encourages listeners to think beyond making money to building wealth through investments in education, relationships, and smart financial strategies. The conversation underscores the need for a comprehensive business plan and the significance of creating scalable businesses to foster long-term economic growth in the Black community. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 169 Fonz Morris is Lead Product Designer, Global Conversion at Netflix. He’s an entrepreneur and self-taught designer, leading one of the most impactful teams inside one of the biggest tech and media companies on the planet. He’s travelled all around the world on his self-driven educational adventures, and prior to joining Netflix, he led a design team at Coursera. On this episode, Fonz speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about unlocking success as a product designer and the tools you’ll need, how impactful travel has been to his design worldview, and how to design for conversion. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 168 Lanny Smith is founder and CEO at Actively Black and Active Faith, both wildly successful athleisure brands doing numbers. An unlikely fashion mogul, Lanny is a former college star basketball player and pro athlete, but this wasn’t the road he chose, but, he’s found his path. On this episode, Lanny speaks with AfroTech’s Will Lucas about the fresh lane of athleisure, how he’s creating a movement, and building a table versus asking for a seat. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 167 Dr. Nashlie Sephus is the Applied Science Manager for the Amazon AI team focusing on fairness in AI. Based in Atlanta, she formally led the Amazon (A9) Visual Search and AR teams, which launched Part Finder, the visual search tool for replacement parts) on the Amazon Shopping App in 2018. The team for Part Finder came from from Atlanta-based startup Partpic in 2016, where she was the CTO. Dr. Sephus received her Ph.D. from the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2014 On this episode, Dr. Sephus speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about fairness in AI, her work in Jackson, Mississippi, and how tech is not Black, white, but instead, GREEN. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 166 Kobie Fuller is General Partner at Upfront Ventures. He’s got deep expertise in enterprise SAAS and frontier technologies including AR/VR. Previously, he was Chief Marketing Officer at REVOLVE, one of the largest global fashion e-­commerce players based in Los Angeles. He’s got deep interest in artificial intelligence, and he’s placing bets on startups building in the space - even building some projects of his own. On this episode, Kobie speaks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about frontier technologies, investing in AI, and what kind of startups are interesting to VCs like him. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 165 Ryan Leslie is a Grammy nominated musician and producer, and founder at SuperPhone which helps creatives and businesses increase engagement, drive revenue, and build better relationships with SMS / MMS marketing. On this episode, Ryan talks with AfroTech's Will Lucas about the economics of the music industry, why artists are selling their catalogs, and how creatives get wealthy. Follow Will Lucas on Instagram: @willlucas Follow Black Tech Green Money: @blacktechgreenmoney, @btgmpodcast Learn more at AfroTech.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.