How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield

DescriptionCounseling psychologist Dr. T.M. Robinson-Mosley shares how she went from growing up in a home where psychology and sports were inseparable to founding The Playbook, an award-winning mental health performance platform trusted by the NBA, NCAA, NWSL, and the U.S. Air Force. Dr. Mosley talks about her mother and twin aunt being among the only Black psychologists in Alabama, her uncle catching the last out of the 1969 World Series, boxing and rugby as an athlete, building a consulting practice she never planned, and scaling 36 providers across pro sports during COVID. This episode covers the mental health crisis in elite sports, quantifying wellness the way a Fitbit tracks physical health, building winning team cultures, and why ready is not a feeling but a decision. Key TakeawaysReady is not a feeling, it is a decision. Waiting to feel ready may mean never starting.More than 50% of elite athletes report depression and anxiety severe enough to affect their ability to function. The crisis is now.You cannot fight tall. Lean into your actual strengths, even the ones that feel like weaknesses.Building a winning team culture is everybody's everyday work.Seeing people who looked like her doing the work gave Dr. Mosley the belief that nothing was unattainable.Who Should ListenWomen building at the intersection of multiple industries. Founders moving from consulting to scalable tech. Sports professionals and clinicians exploring athlete mental health. Anyone who has waited to feel ready before making a move.Learn more about Dr. Mosley and The Playbook at playbookperformance.coHost: Dreena Whitfield, WhitPR Executive Producer, Writer, and Creative Director: Keena, StruxaMusic: Kinita G, "How I Got Here (Official Podcast Theme)"Subscribe for more conversations on purpose, leadership, and reinvention. (00:00) - Meet Dr. T.M. Robinson-Mosley: From Boxing Rings to the NBA and Building The Playbook (01:26) - What was it like growing up in a home where psychology and sports lived in the same space? (03:48) - What parts of that early world make the most sense in who Dr. Mosley became? (04:57) - What did years of rugby, boxing, and competing show Dr. Mosley about strength and pressure? (07:27) - How did Dr. Mosley build a consulting practice with a private practice inside it? (08:43) - What happens when you become an entrepreneur you never planned to be? (09:42) - How did watching her mother earn a PhD at age six shape Dr. Mosley's entire career? (11:09) - Why does Dr. Mosley say ready is not a feeling but a decision? (11:22) - What is The Playbook and how does it track athlete mental health like a wearable device? (12:20) - Why are more than 50% of elite athletes battling depression and anxiety? (14:10) - How did a mentor at the NCAA give Dr. Mosley her first break in professional sports? (15:53) - How did The Playbook scale to 36 providers across the NBA, NFL, and MLB during COVID? (16:17) - Why is building a winning team culture everybody's everyday work? (17:19) - What does Dr. Mosley want people to say about her legacy? (17:58) - Quick-fire questions

Amber Guyton left corporate financial services, built Blessed Little Bungalow into a full-service design brand, and learned that pricing your worth and protecting your peace are the real work. Today she's one of only 2% of interior designers who are Black, with licensing partnerships at Home Goods, TJ Maxx, and Mitchell Black, celebrity clients, and a design philosophy rooted in soulful maximalism.Key Takeaways:You do not have to scale to be successful; a boutique business built on alignment, creative freedom, and strong values is a powerful model.Only 2% of the interior design industry is Black, and showing up authentically in that space is both representation and strategy.Pricing your worth starts with tracking your time; undercharging does not just hurt you, it affects the entire industry.An ADHD diagnosis, anxiety, and depression do not disqualify you from building something meaningful; they just mean some days the building looks different.In this conversation with Dreena Whitfield, Amber opens up about the leap from corporate to creative entrepreneurship, the imposter syndrome that comes without formal design training, and how soulful maximalism became her signature. She talks about what happened when a hobby started feeling like work, why she chose a boutique model over empire-building, and the invisible battles of entrepreneurship, including a recent ADHD diagnosis.This episode covers: decorating her first home in a single week, growing from $250 e-design mood boards to thousands, how licensing partnerships found her before she went looking, navigating an industry where representation barely exists, the heartbreak of a client relationship gone wrong, choosing creative freedom over brand scripts, designing spaces for first-generation wealth builders, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.If you're a woman navigating the leap from corporate to creative entrepreneurship, a designer wrestling with imposter syndrome or pricing, an entrepreneur building while managing mental health, or a first-generation wealth builder who wants spaces that reflect your identity, this episode is for you.About Amber Guyton: Designer, creative director, and founder of Blessed Little Bungalow. University of Georgia MBA. Former corporate marketing executive. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, HGTV Magazine, and Forbes. Licensing partnerships with Home Goods, TJ Maxx, and Mitchell Black, with a bedding line on the way. Speaker at High Point Market.Follow Amber Guyton at @blessedlittlebungalowWatch the full video episode on Substack: howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@howigotherewdreenawSubscribe to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more conversations on purpose, leadership, and reinvention. (00:00) - Meet Amber Guyton: The Interior Designer Building Blessed Little Bungalow With Soul (01:36) - How did Amber Guyton know it was time to leave corporate and pursue interior design full-time? (04:14) - How did the pandemic push Amber Guyton from side hustle to full-time design business? (05:47) - Why did Amber Guyton choose a boutique design business over scaling? (07:43) - What happens when a creative side hustle becomes a full-time business and stops feeling fun? (09:52) - How did Blessed Little Bungalow start from decorating one house in a week? (12:34) - What is it like being a Black interior designer in an industry that is only 2% Black? (14:37) - How did Amber Guyton build a design career without formal interior design training? (15:42) - What is soulful maximalism and how does it center Black art and identity in interior design? (18:25) - How does designing for first-generation wealth builders differ from traditional interior design? (20:32) - How should interior designers price their work when there is no industry blueprint? (26:24) - How did Amber Guyton land licensing deals with Home Goods, TJ Maxx, and Mitchell Black? (29:44) - What is the long-term vision for Blessed Little Bungalow beyond interior design? (34:23) - How do interior designers manage ADHD, anxiety, and depression while running a business? (39:07) - How do you protect creative standards when clients cut budgets or projects fall apart? (41:26) - What does Amber Guyton want her legacy in interior design to be? (43:40) - Quick-fire questions and closing

Mary Pat Hector started organizing at 12, advised President Obama at 18, and ran for office at 19 — losing by just 22 votes. That loss reshaped her entire path. Today she's CEO of Rise, a national organization fighting for free college and student basic needs across 10+ states, and the founder of Equity for All, a platform helping young people of color in the South gain political power.Key Takeaways:She advised President Obama on criminal justice reform at 18 and has since helped mobilize over 4 million voters through Rise.When a Black woman takes over from a white male founder, the funding dynamics shift overnight.The most impactful skill a young leader can learn is fundraising — without it, you'll always work for someone else.Progressive organizations are facing a post-2024 crisis as foundations pull back out of fear of political retaliation.In this conversation with Dreena Whitfield, Mary Pat opens up about the real cost of being the youngest, the first, and the only in the room. She shares what happened when she stepped into the CEO role after a white male founder — and how fundraising, dynamics, and expectations shifted overnight. She talks about building sisterhood as a leadership survival tool, balancing being a new mom and CEO, and what she's hearing from young people who are losing faith in democracy.This episode covers: growing up in a service-driven household in Atlanta, what it was like in the Oval Office at 18, the emotional toll of running for office as a teenager, founding Equity for All after her election loss, leading a hunger strike at Spelman, her path to leading Rise, navigating progressive fundraising after 2024, the personal sacrifices young leaders make, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.If you're a young person figuring out how to lead, an organizer navigating burnout, or someone who wants to understand what it actually takes to build civic power — this episode is for you.About Mary Pat Hector: CEO of Rise, Founder of Equity for All. Spelman College and Georgia State University graduate. Rise has mobilized over 4 million voters nationwide. She helped register over 500,000 Georgia voters through Black Youth Vote. Led hunger strikes that gained 75,000+ meals for HBCU students. Youngest board member of Headcount.org. Featured on MSNBC, CNN, NYT, Hulu's 1619 Project, Forbes, and more.Subscribe to How I Got Here for more conversations on purpose, leadership, and reinvention.Host: Dreena Whitfield / WhitPR Executive Producer, Writer & Creative Director: Keena Williams / Struxa (00:00) - Meet Mary Pat Hector: The Activist Who Started Organizing at 12 Years (01:22) - How does growing up in a service-driven household shape your leadership? (02:36) - What makes Atlanta a unique city for Black leaders and organizers? (05:06) - What is it like advising the President of the United States at 18 years old? (08:09) - What happens when you run for office at 19 and lose by 22 votes? (13:10) - How losing an election inspired the founding of Equity for All (16:08) - What does Rise do and how did Mary Pat Hector become CEO? (19:28) - What really happens when a Black woman takes over from a male founder? (21:40) - How does a young CEO fundraise with no prior experience? (24:31) - How are progressive organizations adapting after the 2024 election? (26:59) - Why are young people disillusioned with democracy and what can be done about it? (29:01) - What does it cost to be the youngest, the first, and the only in the room? (32:13) - What do young civic leaders sacrifice in their twenties for the work? (34:23) - How do you balance being a CEO, a new mom, and a wife at the same time? (37:09) - How do you separate your identity from your work when service is all you know? (40:29) - What legacy does Mary Pat Hector want to leave for the next generation of leaders? (44:03) - How did Mary Pat Hector's mother shape her into the leader she is today? (45:27) - Rapid Fire: Organizing playlists, dream career paths, and the quotes that keep her going (48:30) - Why it matters to platform the work of Black women in leadership

Dreena sits down with Aniesia Williams, a brand strategist, venture architect, and ecosystem builder who understands how power actually moves.In this conversation, Aniesia reflects on navigating leadership spaces where high-performing Black women are often brought in to fix broken systems without real authority or protection. She shares what it cost her to speak up, the psychological toll of being pushed out, and the lessons she learned building and exiting a service-based business.Together, Dreena and Aniesia explore integrity, ownership, and what it looks like to build systems that truly protect the people inside them. This episode is a powerful reminder that success without alignment still comes at a price.(00:00) - Introduction: Meeting Aniesia Williams and her work (02:02) - Why titles stop mattering after a certain point (04:39) - Learning how power really works inside big institutions (06:13) - The unspoken rules Black women are expected to follow (08:43) - When speaking up makes you a “cultural problem” (11:11) - The psychological toll of being pushed out (15:35) - Building and exiting a service-based business (18:27) - What no one tells you about acquisitions (23:08) - Why integrity matters more than optics (31:18) - Creating Dream Wealth Camp for growth-stage founders (36:07) - What investors actually look for (41:35) - Being coachable without shrinking yourself (44:18) - Learning to be okay with being the villain (47:16) - Quickfire questions and where to find Aniesia

Laila Brock joins Dreena Whitfield for a powerful conversation about leadership, representation, and learning who you are beyond the job.From her early days as a college track captain to shaping some of the biggest stages in sports, Laila reflects on what it means to lead in rooms that were never designed for you. She shares lessons from mentors who poured into her, the responsibility of opening doors for others, and the moment she realized success without rest is not sustainable.This is Laila Brock. And this is how she got here.This episode is a thoughtful reflection on identity, boundaries, burnout, and redefining purpose beyond titles.Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the moments that shape who we become. (00:00) - From the Track to the Boardroom: Laila Brock on Leadership, Representation, and Purpose (01:36) - Introduction and Setting the Stage (01:45) - Early Leadership Lessons at Penn State (03:24) - Influential Figures and Personal Growth (05:10) - Challenges and Triumphs in Operations Roles (08:55) - Transition to Business Development (12:00) - Joining the Atlanta Dream (15:23) - Navigating Leadership as a Black Woman (17:50) - Representing the Ancestors and Future Generations (18:46) - The Rise of Women's Sports (20:15) - Reflecting on Career and Personal Identity (23:02) - Advice for Young Women in Sports (28:23) - Legacy and Impact in Sports (29:33) - Quick Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

How I Got Here with Dreena WhitfieldGuest: Kim Roxie, Founder of LAMIK BeautyIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Kim Roxie, the founder of LAMIK Beauty, to talk about what it means to build with purpose when the path forward is uncertain. Kim shares how opening her first brow and makeup shop with just $500 taught her the importance of perseverance, faith, and learning the business from the inside out.She opens up about navigating foreclosure, living with alopecia, and making the difficult decision to shut down her brick-and-mortar store before rebuilding LAMIK as a clean beauty brand. From Houston to Ulta, Nordstrom, and JCPenney, this conversation reveals the quiet strength behind building something with soul.This is Kim Roxie. And this is how she got here.Episode Chapters (00:00) - Introduction to Kim Roxy and LAMIK Beauty (01:39) - Early Beginnings and High School Days (04:46) - Starting LAMIK Beauty with $500 (07:16) - Challenges and Resilience in Business (17:21) - Pivoting to E-commerce (21:10) - Product Development and Local Manufacturing (24:28) - Brow Duo and Clean Beauty (28:33) - Partnerships with Ulta and Nordstrom (29:56) - Reconnecting with an Old Friend (30:12) - Balancing Business and Education (31:44) - The Power of Connection (33:21) - The Rose Foundation's Impact (37:15) - Personal Growth and Leadership (39:07) - Embracing Individuality in Beauty (44:30) - Future Aspirations and Reflections (50:56) - Empowering Women with Alopecia Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the moments that shape who we become.

How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield Guest: Aamira Garba, Founder of LoveLee WinesIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Aamira Garba, the New Jersey–born founder of LoveLee Wines. They talk about the moment on a New Jersey Transit train that sparked a major life shift, the courage to enter an industry with so few Black women, and the discipline she pours into every bottle.Aamira shares how she blended her first wines without a license, built slowly while raising two daughters, and learned the business from the inside out. From her earliest blends to landing on VinePair’s Top 25 Pinot Noirs in the World, this conversation highlights purpose, persistence, and building a legacy with intention.This is Aamira Garba, and this is how she got here.Episode Chapters(00:00) - Introduction to Aamira Garba and LoveLee Wines (00:30) - The Journey Begins: Discovering Wine (03:06) - Early Challenges and Bootlegging Days (03:43) - Balancing Life and Business (09:47) - Naming the Brand: A Family Affair (11:47) - Building the Brand: Self-Funding and Growth (15:49) - Claiming Space in the Wine Industry (17:52) - Celebrating Success and Overcoming Stereotypes (20:48) - Challenges in the Wine Industry (21:19) - Navigating the Three-Tier System (22:48) - Building Relationships and Sales Skills (24:16) - Finding the Right Vineyard Partner (26:22) - The Wine Making Process (27:31) - Staying Grounded and Inspired (33:03) - Recognition and Self-Acceptance (35:20) - Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the moments that shape who we become.

How I Got Here with Dreena WhitfieldGuest: Nagela Duperval, Founder of OU LA RestaurantIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Nagela Duperval, the Haitian-born entrepreneur behind OU LA — the stunning Caribbean restaurant in Carteret, New Jersey that’s redefining what it means to build something from faith and fire.With no restaurant experience, Nagela spent three years building a $3-million space from the ground up while juggling a full-time job and family. She opens up about betting everything on herself, trusting God through the struggle, and finding her footing in an industry she had to teach herself in real time.From real estate flips to restaurant ownership, from burnout to breakthroughs, this conversation is a story of courage, culture, and conviction — a reminder that even when the path gets hard, purpose always finds a way.This is Nagela Duperval, and this is how she got here.⏱️ Episode Chapters[00:00] Introduction – Dreena welcomes Nagela Duperval and sets up her journey from real estate to restaurants. [01:26] From Port-au-Prince to New Jersey – Carrying Haitian language, culture, and community into a new life. [03:11] The Birth of OU LA – Partnering with Chef Duke and creating a space that celebrates Caribbean flavors. [05:28] The Opportunity – Finding the perfect location and learning commercial real estate the hard way. [06:47] The Financing Battle – Building a $3-million restaurant without investors or SBA loans. [10:06] Faith in the Struggle – How prayer, persistence, and strangers’ belief kept her going. [12:31] Lessons from Real Estate – Partnership, ownership, and being a Black woman in business. [15:00] The Highs and Lows of Flipping – From first wins to costly mistakes that became lessons. [17:47] Risk and Reward – Selling everything to make the dream real. [18:50] Life Inside OU LA – Managing 30 employees, long hours, and weekly payroll pressure [20:11] Food and Story – Haitian dishes, black rice, and how heritage shows up on the plate. [22:06] The Cost of the Dream – Burnout, balance, and learning to trust new leadership. [24:07] Black Women in Food – Speaking at the summit and finding strength through sisterhood. [26:15] Why She Can’t Quit – Faith, debt, and a promise to finish what she started. [27:21] The Impact Moments – When other Black women walk in and say, “Sis, we’re proud of you.” [28:19] Building Legacy – Hopes for her family, future OU LA locations, and believing it will turn around [29:30] Quick Fire – Red snapper, morning flow, and the song that takes her home.Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the pivots that shape who we become.

How I Got Here with Dreena WhitfieldGuest: Tahira Joy Wright, Founder of The Cut LifeIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Tahira Joy Wright, the visionary founder of The Cut Life — the digital beauty community celebrating short hair, self-expression, and the women redefining what it means to show up boldly.From her early days in entertainment PR to building one of the most beloved beauty platforms online, Tahira shares how burnout led to breakthrough — and how a one-week idea grew into a cultural movement rooted in authenticity, community, and faith.This conversation is a story of faith, flow, and finding purpose in the pivot — a reminder that sometimes, the detour is the destination.⏱️ Episode Chapters[00:00] Introduction – Dreena welcomes Tahira Joy Wright and sets up her journey from PR to purpose. [01:20] The Birth of The Cut Life – How burnout from PR led to an Instagram page that became a movement. [03:30] When Passion Meets Purpose – Realizing The Cut Life was more than a hobby — it was a calling. [06:00] From PR Girl to Founder – Lessons from Atlanta’s entertainment industry that shaped Tahira’s business mindset. [11:00] Making the Leap – Leaving the hustle behind to embrace peace, alignment, and entrepreneurship. [14:00] Community Over Algorithms – Why genuine connection, not metrics, fuels longevity. [20:20] Navigating Partnerships and Authenticity – Redefining what brand alignment really looks like. [23:30] Hair, AI, and Human Touch – Tahira on using tech like ChatGPT and Mailchimp AI while keeping her authentic voice. [27:00] Building a Platform for Black Beauty – Centering Black women, culture, and community unapologetically. [31:20] The New Hype Hair – Carrying the spirit of Hype Hair and Black Hair Sophisticates into the digital era. [38:00] What’s Next for The Cut Life – Media projects, stylist directory relaunch, and expanding into TV and film. [42:00] Lessons, Blessings, and Longevity – The power of patience, saving, and sustainable growth. [47:00] Faith and Flow – Tahira’s mantra for staying grounded and trusting the process.Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the pivots that shape who we become.

How I Got Here with Dreena WhitfieldGuest: Chantel Powell, Founder & CEO of Play PitsIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Chantel Powell, founder and CEO of Play Pits, to talk about what it takes to build something from the ground up and keep going when everything falls apart.From styling wardrobes at Tyler Perry Studios to creating one of the most beloved natural deodorant brands in the country, Chantel shares how motherhood sparked her purpose, how faith carried her through loss and a warehouse fire, and how she continues to rise like the phoenix she is.This conversation is a story of resilience, faith, and legacy — a reminder that the hardest seasons often shape the strongest leaders.⏱️ Episode Chapters[00:00] Introduction – Dreena welcomes Chantel Powell and sets up her journey from film to entrepreneurship.[03:10] The Moment That Sparked Play Pits – Her son’s “funk” leads to a kitchen experiment that changes everything.[06:00] From Kitchen Experiments to a Formula That Worked – Testing, feedback, and finding a natural chemist.[11:45] Laid Off and Launching Play Pits – Turning a layoff into a backyard launch moment.[15:10] First Big Break – Unique Jones’ “Because of Them We Can” feature sends sales soaring.[24:00] The Target Journey – The missed meeting that led to an undeniable retail moment.[35:30] The Warehouse Fire – Losing it all, surrendering, and rebuilding through faith.[46:00] Rising from the Ashes – Chantel’s phoenix moment and what legacy means now.[50:45] What’s Next for Play Pits – New products, family inspiration, and faith leading the way.Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the pivots that shape who we become.

#HowIGotHere guest and interior design entrepreneur Rasheeda Gray shares how she was able to turn her corporate skills into a full time creative venture, all while nurturing her family and managing her career. Stream Season 3, Episode 8 to hear more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

In this special episode of How I Got Here, host Dreena Whitfield, the founder and CEO of WhitPR, takes the mic solo to share her personal journey as an entrepreneur and her insights on Black Business Month.Dreena opens up about the challenges and triumphs she has faced in building her agency, emphasizing the importance of diversity and authenticity in the PR industry. She discusses the role of Black agencies, the impact of larger firms encroaching on multicultural work, and the significance of championing Black founders and issues within the community.Tune in to this inspiring episode to gain valuable insights from Dreena on navigating the PR industry, the significance of Black Business Month, and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Summary:Necole Kane is the visionary force behind Necole Bitchie, xo Necole, and the new wellness brand, My Happy Flo. She started her career in entertainment news and celebrity gossip, eventually launching Necole Bitchie, which became the go-to black-focused celebrity website. After the success of Necole Bitchie, she rebranded to xo Necole, focusing on empowering black women with content on mental health, relationships, and more. In 2017, Will Packer acquired xo Necole. Necole has now launched My Happy Flo, a hormone balance supplement for women with periods.Key Takeaways:Necole started Necole Bitchie after moving to a small town and realizing her vision was bigger than working at Walmart.She grew Necole Bitchie to 20 million daily page views through consistency and dedication.The rebrand to xo Necole was driven by a desire to create a platform for black women to discuss topics beyond celebrity news.Necole's acquisition by Will Packer was a result of her viral video and a series of conversations over several months.She faced challenges during the acquisition process, including concerns about alignment and the future of her brand.Necole's latest venture, My Happy Flo, was inspired by her personal experiences with her mother's battle with breast cancer and her own studies in holistic health.My Happy Flo aims to provide black women with a hormone balance supplement that addresses common deficiencies and supports overall reproductive health.Episode WebsiteIn this Episode: In this episode, starting at 0:00:30, we delve into Necole Kane's fascinating journey from aspiring actress to digital media powerhouse. At 0:02:20, discover the inception of her influential blog Nicole B****y, followed by her strategic pivot to Exo Nicole at 0:04:02, highlighting her adaptive business acumen. Necole reveals her effective networking strategies at 0:05:33 and the pivotal viral interview with Chili at 0:06:11 that propelled her into the spotlight.The challenges and transformation from Necole Bitchie to xo Necole are candidly discussed at 0:07:40 and 0:08:47, providing insights into Necole's resilience and vision. A significant moment in her career is the acquisition of xo Necole by Will Packer in 2017, detailed at 0:10:57, marking a new chapter in her professional journey.Necole opens up about her personal struggles, including depression and fear of failure, at 0:12:21, and shares her insights on vision alignment and building the right team at 0:19:44. The episode also explores her venture into women's health with My Happy Flo, addressing the need for education around menstrual cycles and hormonal imbalances, touched upon at 0:25:21.Concluding at 0:34:55, Necole shares her excitement for the future of My Happy Flo and offers personal insights, including her advice to her younger self and her self-care activities, wrapping up with where to follow her journey on social media at 0:37:13. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

In the episode, Christina Rice, the founder of OMNoire, shares her inspiring journey from a career in public relations to building a platform that redefines wellness and community for black women and women of color. She discusses her transition from PR to launching her own agency and the challenges she faced along the way. Christina also talks about the moment she discovered her passion for yoga and how it led her to create Omniwar. She shares her vision for the future of the brand and the importance of community and self-care in the wellness industry.Key Takeaways:Christina Rice transitioned from a career in public relations to launching her own agency before starting OMNoire.OMNoire is a platform that redefines wellness and community for black women and women of color.Christina's passion for yoga and her journey led her to create OMNoire as a safe space for black women to explore wellness and healing.OMNoire offers retreats, a home collection, and an academy to empower and support black women on their wellness journeys.Christina believes in the power of community and self-care and aims to create a one-stop wellness shop through OMNoire.Episode Outline: In this podcast episode, beginning at 0:00:30, we're introduced to Christina Rice, whose varied career journey is admired by host Dreena. From her high school dream of being an attorney, noted at 0:02:38, to opening a Nashville clothing store at 0:04:26, and transitioning to a PR career in New Jersey at 0:07:28, Christina's path is diverse and inspiring.A pivotal moment occurs at 0:10:59 when Christina starts her own agency after being laid off. This period also marks her wellness journey, as she discovers yoga and eventually becomes a certified teacher, a topic touched upon at 0:12:36. Christina's significant venture, Omnoire, aimed at healing for black women, is conceived in early 2016, highlighted at 0:13:32.The episode at 0:21:17 delves into the meaning behind "Omnoire" and Christina's achievements, including planning retreats and securing sponsorships. She shares her experience of focusing solely on Omnoire at 0:16:03 and attributes its success to community care and pioneering in the wellness industry at 0:25:33.Christina discusses expanding Omnoire into home products at 0:44:49 and her vision for it as a comprehensive wellness brand at 0:49:54. She offers advice to entrepreneurs at 0:51:22, emphasizing listening to one's inner voice. The episode wraps up around 0:57:46 with Christina sharing Bali's transformative impact on her wellness journey.Connect with Christina on....Instagram: @christinamriceLinktree: ChristinaRice This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

In this captivating podcast episode, join me as I delve into the extraordinary journey of Michelle Ganey, the brilliant mind behind Lamiga Events. From aspiring lawyer to event planning entrepreneur, Michelle's story is one of following your passion and embracing unconventional career paths. Get ready to be inspired by her insights on building a thriving business, finding a balance between work and family, and creating impactful event designs. Don't miss this empowering conversation on how to navigate the world of event planning with excellence and authenticity. Tune in now!- Michelle's journey from aspiring lawyer to event planner- The importance of family and work-life balance- Finding inspiration and setting price points in the industry- Creating a strong community and building relationships- Embracing niche markets and becoming an authorityEpisode Outline: In this latest episode of "How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield," listeners are treated to the extraordinary story of Michelle Ganey, the creative mind behind Lamiga Events. [00:00:00] The episode begins with Dreena expressing her enthusiasm about having Michelle as a guest. [00:00:00] Dreena starts with an intriguing question to Michelle, asking about her high school yearbook prediction for her future. [00:00:37] Michelle reveals her initial ambition to become an attorney, a path quite different from her current career. [00:00:51] She shares that this aspiration stemmed from her childhood, inspired by the character Claire Huxtable from "The Cosby Show." [00:01:12] The discussion moves to Michelle's academic pursuits, highlighting her college degree in political science. [00:01:29] Michelle also discusses her decision to work full-time after college to support herself independently. [00:02:28]The episode then explores Michelle's transition into event planning, inspired by her personal experience with planning her wedding. [00:02:55] Michelle talks about the lack of established career paths in event planning 23 years ago and her initial focus on milestone celebrations. [00:02:55] Dreena shifts the conversation to the challenges faced by entrepreneurs who juggle a full-time job with their passion projects. [00:05:15] Michelle reflects on the changes in the event planning industry, noting the influence of the movie "The Wedding Planner" and the rise of wedding blogs. [00:05:42] She recounts her experience from 2004 to 2007, when event planning was her side hustle, with a focus on milestone birthday celebrations. [00:11:00]A poignant moment in the episode occurs when Michelle shares advice she gave to a planner struggling to differentiate herself. [00:33:55] Michelle emphasizes the importance of leveraging one's unique qualities as a strength. [00:39:00] Dreena then inquires about the factors contributing to the success of Michelle and Lamiga Events. [00:40:28] The episode concludes with Michelle describing herself in one word and mentioning one of her legacy clients. [00:42:37] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Kamilah Forbes was supposed to be a doctor. She went to Howard University with a plan to study medicine and act on the side. Freshman biology changed that. She walked across campus to the theater department, and the rest is a story of hip hop theater festivals, Def Poetry Jam, HBO, and eventually becoming the Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater in Harlem.Key Takeaways:The clear career path does not always exist in arts and entertainment; sometimes you have to create the lane and build the audience for it yourself.Your biggest collaborators are often already sitting next to you; Kamilah's Howard classmates became her lifelong creative partners and co-builders.Moving a legacy institution forward means shifting from reverence to relevance while honoring everything that came before.Saying yes to a job while seven months pregnant taught Kamilah that there is never a "perfect time" to step into your purpose.The people you build with early in your career often become the people you build with for life.In this conversation, Dreena Whitfield sits down with Kamilah Forbes inside the Apollo Theater to talk about growing up as a first-generation Jamaican American theater kid in Chicago, pivoting from pre-med to fine arts at Howard, and co-founding the Hip Hop Theater Festival to create a space that didn't exist for young voices. Kamilah shares how a job interview to be an assistant to Stan Lathan turned into her first role in television on Def Poetry Jam for HBO, how she rose from talent executive to executive producer, and how a consulting gig at the Apollo eventually led to the opportunity to help shape its future.Topics covered in this episode:Why Kamilah chose Howard University and how HBCUs create spaces for Black identity and creative growthHow hip hop theater was born from young artists who didn't see themselves reflected on existing stagesThe path from Def Poetry Jam to directing and producing across theater and televisionHow the Apollo Theater transitioned from a commercial venue to a mission-driven nonprofitAdapting Ta-Nehisi Coates' "Between the World and Me" from book to stage to HBO filmWhat it means to lead a 90-year-old institution through expansion, including two new theaters at the VictoriaProducing the upcoming Soul Train musical with Questlove and Dominique MorisseauNavigating work-life balance as a working mom at a demanding cultural institutionAdvice for young Black artists: your biggest assets are sitting right next to youWho Should Listen: If you are a creative professional navigating arts and culture, a Black woman in leadership at a legacy institution, someone figuring out how to bridge passion and profession, or anyone interested in the intersection of art, activism, and community building, this episode is for you.About Kamilah Forbes: Kamilah Forbes is the Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater. A Howard University graduate, she co-founded the Hip Hop Theater Festival and has directed and produced across theater and television, including Def Poetry Jam and the HBO adaptation of "Between the World and Me." She is currently producing the Soul Train musical alongside Questlove and Dominique Morisseau.Learn more about the Apollo Theater: https://www.apollotheater.org Follow Kamilah Forbes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamilahfListen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you prefer audio. Watch the full video episode on Substack: https://howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@howigotherewdreenawSubscribe to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more conversations on purpose, leadership, and reinvention. (00:00) - Dreena Whitfield welcomes Kamilah Forbes, Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater (01:11) - How did growing up as a first-generation Jamaican American theater kid in Chicago shape Kamilah Forbes' career? (03:57) - Why did Kamilah Forbes switch from pre-med to theater at Howard University? (05:47) - How do HBCUs like Howard University shape Black creative professionals? (08:18) - What is hip hop theater and how did Kamilah Forbes help create the movement? (11:12) - How did a failed assistant job interview lead Kamilah Forbes to Def Poetry Jam on HBO? (15:15) - How did a consulting gig at the Apollo Theater turn into an Executive Producer role for Kamilah Forbes? (18:09) - What is the vision for moving the Apollo Theater from reverence to relevance? (20:11) - How did Kamilah Forbes adapt Between the World and Me from book to stage to HBO film? (27:10) - What advice does Kamilah Forbes have for young Black artists breaking into the industry? (28:16) - What is next for the Apollo Theater including the Soul Train musical with Questlove? (29:41) - How does Kamilah Forbes balance being a working mom and leading a cultural institution? (34:14) - Quickfire: favorite musical, personal mantra, and what is next for Kamilah Forbes

In the latest episode of the How I Got Here podcast, host Dreena Whitfield sits down with Dayna Bolden, CEO of Define Bold Fitness, to discuss her inspiring journey from a Division One basketball player to a successful fitness entrepreneur. Dayna's story emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and embracing unexpected paths to success. The episode also delves into the rise of influencer careers and the challenges faced along the way. Dayna takes the opportunity to promote her fitness brand, Define Bold Fitness, and kindly asks for support. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and be inspired by Dayna's incredible journey.- Dayna's journey from basketball player to fitness brand CEO- Emphasizing the importance of following passion and unexpected paths to success- The rise of influencer careers and the importance of genuine impact- Building a successful brand and launching a collection- Taking risks and pursuing passion as a full-time influencerNotable QuotesI believe that the important thing is that we stay true to our values.Keywordsrelevant keywords, How I Got Here podcast, interview, Dayna Bolden, CEO, Define Bold Fitness, Division One basketball player, fitness brand, passion, unexpected paths to success, the rise of influencer careers, challenges, genuine impact, support, Drena Whitfield, multi-talented blogger, entrepreneur, influencer, self-care, self-love, empowerment, women worldwide, New York, Under Armour, marketing, athletic company, climbing the corporate ladder, influencer career, change agent, inspiring people, purpose, genuine impact, children's book, personal brand, content creation, documenting, a new collection, leggings, sports bra, zip-up jacket, retail, team, bulk content creation, documenting, growth, impact, community, social media, Define Bold Fitness.Connect with Dayna on....Instagram: @daynaboldenWebsite: www.daynabolden.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Welcome to the latest episode of "How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield," where we delve deep into the inspiring stories of individuals who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields. In this captivating installment, we explore the fascinating journey of none other than Rasheeda Gray, an extraordinary entrepreneur and interior design maven.In this episode, Rasheeda sits down with Dreena to discuss her path to becoming an entrepreneur and the unexpected twists and turns along the way.From high school aspirations in the creative business world to a successful corporate career, Rasheeda shares her personal journey of self-discovery and finding her true passion. Tune in as she opens up about the influences that shaped her career choices, including her aunt's work in a corporate environment, a character on a TV show, and a communications course in high school.Rasheeda takes us through her transition from the insurance industry to interior design, showcasing the importance of embracing different experiences and constantly evolving. She shares her fears, doubts, and the financial preparations she made before taking the leap into entrepreneurship.Join us as we delve into the rollercoaster nature of entrepreneurship and the bravery it takes to pursue your dreams. We'll also explore the day-to-day life of an interior designer, the importance of building a portfolio, and tips for designing your own home on a budget.Don't miss out on this witty, inspiring, and relatable episode featuring the incredible journey of Rasheeda and her passion for interior design. Get ready to be motivated and empowered to chase your own dreams, no matter where life takes you. Tune in now and be inspired!- Rasheeda's background and career path- Early interests and experiences- Transitioning into interior design- Leaving a corporate job to start own business- Challenges and doubts of entrepreneurship- Growth of Gray Space Interiors and real estate development- Daily routine as an interior designer- Advice for entering the design industry- Importance of planning and measurement in design- Believing in oneself and building relationships- Exciting updates and upcoming projectsNotable Quotes"You are crafting your career right now, even as a high school student. You just never know what your experiences will lead you to." - RasheedaKeywordsKeywords: high school, 23 years ago, creative, business world, college, marketing, advertising, entrepreneur, curating, creating, painting, artist, interior design, space planning, sketching, apartment, white box, corporate job, risk taker, partner, health insurance, savings, liquid cashEpisode Outline Rasheeda will be XYZ in ten years. [00:00:36] Trying different careers. [00:09:17] Knowing when to launch Gray Space interiors. [00:12:03] Planning the transition from corporate job to entrepreneurship. [00:12:38] Balancing purpose, passion, and stress. [00:15:24] Similarities between Rasheeda and Dreena. [00:15:56] Three tips for designing a home on a budget. [00:26:19] Goldman Sachs $10,000 small business program. [00:32:58]Connect with Rasheeda on....Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grayspaceinteriors/Website: https://grayspaceinteriors.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield! In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the importance of community support for black businesses and entrepreneurs and the urgent need for a shift in consciousness within the black community.Join us as Dreena Whitfield sits down with the remarkable Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, the visionary CEO of the Village Market. Dr. Hallmon's social enterprise not only supports black businesses but also promotes cultural awareness, making her the perfect guest for this enlightening discussion.Prepare to be inspired as Dr. Hallmon shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey and unwavering vision for the Village Market. From her high school yearbook prediction of owning multiple small businesses and traveling extensively to the reality of making it happen, Dr. Hallmon's story will leave you in awe.But that's not all! In this episode, Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon takes the mic to discuss her experience of moving to Atlanta and building her own brand. She reveals how Atlanta's vibrant arts and culture scene inspired her to become an entrepreneur and the challenges she faced along the way.We'll also explore the transition from education to entrepreneurship, as Dr. Hallmon highlights the importance of economic development and upward mobility within black communities. Her journey from a one-person operation to the thriving Village Market will leave you motivated and ready to take on the world.But wait, there's more! Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon will also share invaluable insights into starting a business, advocating for entrepreneurs, and the unapologetic value that black people bring to society. Her powerful words will resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and community advocates alike.So, if you're ready to embrace the power of community support and witness the transformative shift in consciousness within the black community, don't miss this extraordinary episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield.Tune in now and be part of the movement that empowers black entrepreneurs and showcases their incredible products. Remember, when black people are empowered, every community prospers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired and make a difference.- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey as an entrepreneur and vision for the Village Market- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's experience of moving to Atlanta and building their brand- Importance of authentic self-expression and surrounding oneself with genuine individuals in Atlanta's entrepreneurial spirit- Transition from education to entrepreneurship and the importance of small businesses in lifting communities out of poverty- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey in starting a business and advocating for entrepreneurs- Overcoming self-doubt as an entrepreneur and embracing the privilege- Importance of supporting small black businesses and excellence in supporting black entrepreneurs- Support as a verb and the significance of support in entrepreneurship- Importance of finding and surrounding oneself with supportive and like-minded individuals- Our Village United and the Elevate program for Black businesses- Expansion of the Elevated Cities program nationally- Importance of community support and conscious support for the black community- Shift in consciousness and consistent support for black businesses and individuals Introduction with Dreena Whitfield [00:00:00] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about being a classroom teacher and her dedication to her students [00:07:31] Dr. Key Hallmon discusses the stress and challenges of being an entrepreneur [00:10:02] Dr. Key Hallmon shares her perspective on affirming oneself and being unapologetically for her people [00:13:06] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about the importance of having a vision and expanding beyond one's... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Welcome to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Felicia Hatcher, CEO of Pharrell Williams Black Ambition Opportunity Fund and co-founder of Black Tech Week conference. Hatcher shares her story of overcoming the challenges of being a C student in high school and how scholarships changed her perspective on education. Her experience led her to author the C Students Guide to Scholarships and start her own educational consulting business, teaching nontraditional students how to navigate the college application process. We discuss the impact of biased guidance from counselors on young individuals and how it affected Hatcher's decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of having someone in your corner with higher expectations and belief in your abilities. We also touch on Hatcher's experiences in experiential marketing and social media in the early 2000s, working with brands such as Nintendo and Sony. Hatcher shares her experience of entering the tech space through marketing and eventually launching Code Fever to teach African American and Caribbean youth how to code. We also discuss Black Tech Week and the Black Ambition Opportunity Fund, which invests in black and Latinx startup founders and provides resources and funding for Black-owned businesses. Don't miss this episode full of valuable insights and inspiring stories. Follow Felicia Hatcher on all social media platforms and check out the Black Ambition Prize for entrepreneurial funding opportunities.- Interview with Felicia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition Opportunity Fund- Winning scholarships changed her perspective- Creating opportunities for nontraditional students- Importance of having supportive mentors- Encouragement can change life trajectory- Early exposure to technology and coding- Launching Code Fever to teach coding to youth- Origin of Black Tech Week and its purpose- Journey of starting a frozen dessert business- Overcoming financial difficulties as an entrepreneur- Building an entrepreneurship ecosystem in Miami- Black Ambition Opportunity Fund's mission and programs- Abundant mindset and not creating limitations- Quickfire questions and future projects- Where to follow and subscribe to the speaker Introduction [00:00:23] Starting a business after college [00:09:30] Creating immersive experiences [00:11:55] Social media boom [00:12:06] Jumping into the tech field [00:12:43] Founding Code Fever [00:14:45] Branding strategy: associating with experiences [00:26:19] Planning during financial difficulties [00:32:22]Connect with Felecia on....Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feleciahatcher/Website: https://www.feleciahatcher.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com