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    UnBossed

    Every Black woman has a story to tell, and every story has a journey.

    UNBOSSED goes deep into the stories, beyond the awards and attention, to highlight the known and those you need to know.

    Host, Marquita Harris (ESSENCE's Senior Editor of Work and Money) dives into the professional and personal lives of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, self-starters and beyond. Let's talk about it - money, ambition, careers, entrepreneurship, debt and more.

    Join the conversation. #unbossedpodcast

    enESSENCE Podcast Network44 Episodes

    Episodes (44)

    What Should Be The Biggest Difference Between You And Everyone Else In The Room? Excellence.

    What Should Be The Biggest Difference Between You And Everyone Else In The Room? Excellence.

    Dia Simms is the former President of Combs Wine and Spirits, where she oversaw the execution of all Cîroc Ultra Premium Vodka, DeLeón [DE LAY-ON] Tequila and spirits innovation projects for the company. Under Dia’s leadership - the company experienced over 1000% growth, going from obscurity to one of the most globally recognized vodka brands. She’s now a trailblazer in the cannabis industry as the CEO of BRN Group - catapulting new cannabis brands into market.

    How did she spin a career from the Department of Defense to Diddy to delivering new cannabis brands to market? She maintained excellence in everything she did and rose through the ranks like a supernova. Check out the episode to hear her story. It’ll inspire you - no doubt about it. Let us know what you think of the episode using #UnbossedPodcast!



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    There Are No Limits When We Own Our Own!

    There Are No Limits When We Own Our Own!

    Impacting culture has to extend beyond the immediate. No one has done this better than Percy Miller aka Master P who is the founder of No Limit Records and P. Miller Enterprises. He’s an entrepreneur, a former basketball player, and rapper and we can all learn a little something from this well-rounded businessman. This episode is from a conversation at the 2019 Entrepreneur Summit in Atlanta, where he and and his friend and business partner, Mr. James Lindsay shared details about creating the popular Rap Snacks chips brand, their expansion into the food industry, and their efforts to create more opportunities within our community. One big takeaway? Ownership is key! Grab and use the keys these guys offer in this interview. And be sure to use #UnbossedPodcast on social to let us know!

     


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    If They Don't Know You Personally, Don't Take It Personal

    If They Don't Know You Personally, Don't Take It Personal

    If you've ever wondered how exactly to respond to naysayers when your star is on the rise, this episode is for you. The legend, Mona Scott Young has been in the entertainment game a LONG time and has seen and accomplished A LOT due to a diverse upbringing, a whole lot of grit, and a zest for living life to the fullest. She famously cofounded Violator Records with business partner Chris Lighty (rest in peace), and became instrumental to the lives and careers of hip hop heavyweights like Missy Elliott, LL Cool J, 50 Cent and more.

    For the last 10 years, Mona has captivated an even broader audience as the CEO of Monami Entertainment and creator of the reality superseries Love & Hip Hop. She’s truly unbothered by naysayers, and proud to provide platforms for others to shine. Once you hear her speak you don’t want her to stop. Mona's life story is a well of wisdom for anyone who wants to do life and business their way. Chat with host, Marquita Harris on social media using #UnbossedPodcast and let her know what you think of the episode! Apple listeners, please leave a review!


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    Shoestring Budgets Still Make Dreams Happen

    Shoestring Budgets Still Make Dreams Happen

    In the Digital Age, there is very little we can’t find, learn, or create with just the click of a button. Yet, very many of us still suffer from the fear that our dreams are limited to what the opportunities that the gatekeepers give us. If you’re one of those people then this episode of Unbossed is definitely for you. Award-winning actress and filmmaker, Numa Perrier used every resource available to her, not waiting for Hollywood to ‘give’ her a chance. She made her own as the creator of Black & Sexy TV, the first Black web series production company on the Internet, before it was cool. With a tiny budget and the threat of eviction over her head. Now, she’s the producer, director, and star of her first indie feature based on her life. Not only has her film ‘Jezebel’ taken the film festival circuit by storm, it caught the eye of Ava DuVernay - producing/directing royalty, and Netflix! You have got to hear her story. Her story is a blueprint for making your own way in the world. And a testament to the fact that when you do what you love, the funding will come.


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    How To Beat “Numbers” Impostor Syndrome As A Young Entrepreneur

    How To Beat “Numbers” Impostor Syndrome As A Young Entrepreneur

    Is fear causing you to avoid all things budgets, balance sheets, and bookkeeping for your business? Do you think the numbers might somehow prove you’re not meant to run a business? If that sounds familiar then you definitely need to hear Trinity Mouzon Wofford’s (@trinitymouzon) story. She’s not even 30 yet and she’s a testament to the fact that you’re never too young to run a successful business doing what you love. Trinity is co-founder of Golde - the health and beauty company that uses superfoods as its core ingredient, promoting good health and beauty. Trinity is also the youngest Black woman to launch a line at Sephora.


    Listen to her story and let the impostor syndrome melt away. Use #UnBossedPodcast to share your thoughts on the episode and how you’re beating impostor syndrome!


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    The State of the Black Female Entrepreneur - A Heart-to-Heart with 3 Black Women Founders

    The State of the Black Female Entrepreneur - A Heart-to-Heart with 3 Black Women Founders

    Black women are a force to be reckoned with in business and some of the highest drivers of commerce. So, when you get us together in one room to discuss our entrepreneurial journeys - the outcome is nothing short of powerful.


    We’re excited to close out the decade with this dynamic conversation from Essence Fest 2019’s E Suite. Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole (@pinky907); NaturAll Club founder Muhga Eltigani (itsmuhga); and The Lip Bar founder, Melissa Butler (@melissarbutler) graced this panel discussion with vulnerability, grace, and their personal testimonies. If you’re in search of words of wisdom to help propel you into your own entrepreneurship odyssey in 2020, take a listen and be inspired. Use #UnBossedPodcast to share your entrepreneurship tips of the decade and let’s keep the momentum going!


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    A Rock Solid Work Ethic Propels True Leaders Forward

    A Rock Solid Work Ethic Propels True Leaders Forward

    Becoming the best in the business begins by working for and with the best in the business. Diligence and patience can often be overlooked in a world that seems to value microwaveable careers. Camille Yorrick’s trajectory is a case study on why the exact opposite is necessary for any true leader. Her career spans a couple of decades and more than a few big wins within the music industry - from working with artists like Mariah Carey in her early days to Beyonce and Childish Gambino more recently. In this interview, Yorrick describes the work ethic that made it all happen.


    Let us know what you think of the episode using #UnBossedPodcast.


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    Learning To Delegate Is A Boss Move

    Learning To Delegate Is A Boss Move

    We all know that building a business is no easy feat. We have so many i’s to dot, t’s to cross and obstacles to hurdle. Understanding the value of the team and learning to delegate to those we trust are paramount to business success and our own mental health and wellness. No one knows this better than Backstage Capital founder, Arlan Hamilton (@arlanwashere) who has met and exceeded her business goals many times over. Two things she very clear on? Acknowledging and utilizing her support system and not micromanaging. Listen to this episode to hear her story and grab some nuggets for business success.


    Let UnBossed host Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) know what you think using #UnBossedPodcast!


    This episode is sponsored by Nationwide.


    Key Takeaways:

    • 12:19 - How Arlan stayed motivated through over a decade of homelessness
    • 29:37 - Separating the strengths from the weaknesses to delegate
    • 30:52 - What being UnBossed means to Arlan


    Plus stick around, for BONUS career tip segment (Sponsored by Nationwide)


    Valeisha Butterfield-Jones (WEEN) + Kristi Martin-Rodriguez (Nationwide) share their tips for building and leaving a legacy in your professional and personal lives, from starter to retirement.

    Key Takeaways:

    • 47:30 - Valeisha shares how her first (and still) mentor (Kevin Liles) motivated her to move from intern to SVP, in the music industry
    • 51:44 - The Do’s & Don’ts of giving and getting mentorship
    • 55:42 - The REAL difference mentorship and sponsorship
    • 1:10:17 - Managing burnout


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    How Black Women Can Close The Wage Gap

    How Black Women Can Close The Wage Gap

    It’s no surprise that Black women are successfully climbing up the professional ladder, however finding the ideal support continues to be a challenge. In this episode, host Marquita Harris (@mar_har_) sits down with Vinita J. Clements, Senior VP of Human Resources for Nationwide, and Michele Thornton Ghee, EVP of Business Development for Endeavor Global Marketing to get candid conversation and straight answers about what Black women can do to close the wage gap, and the importance of taking calculated risks at every stage of your career. It’s never too late!


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    Boardrooms Are Built By People Who Get In The Game Early

    Boardrooms Are Built By People Who Get In The Game Early

    C-suite success comes with hard work, perseverance...and long-game vision. One thing that keeps many of us from becoming fruitful moguls or mavens is the inability to look ahead and learn crucial business elements EARLY in the game. This week’s guest, Monique Mosley (@Monique_Mosley_), CEO and Founder of Reign Ventures has had no problem with seeing and setting up the future. During her long career she’s kept a boss mindset by learning all the crucial elements to business success EARLY. Her career boasts success both in entertainment and venture capitalism because of her intentionality and the very specific mindset she outlines on this episode. Click ‘Play’ to hear her tips for building your own table. Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend, comment, and tell Unbossed host, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) what you think using #UnBossedPodcast!


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    Don’t Be Afraid To Protect Your Ideas

    Don’t Be Afraid To Protect Your Ideas

    Intellectual property theft has long been a problem in our community, specifically when it comes to Black women. As today’s guest explains, no one is going to vouch for your work and worth like you. If you want to be a true boss you must first understand the value of protecting what you create. Host, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) talks with Lisa Davis, Esq., a seasoned entertainment lawyer with clients like legendary rap group, Public Enemy and Black author extraordinaire, Terry McMillan. Davis is clear that time has been up for Black people being cheated out of our intellectual property and is on a 20+ year mission to ensure that we see the wealth and dividends of our creative process instead of making others wealthy due to our own ignorance of the process and pitfalls.


    Use #UnBossedPodcast to share your thoughts and even your experiences with knowing your value and protecting your IP! Don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe!


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    Getting Laid Off Can Sometimes Be A Blessing

    Getting Laid Off Can Sometimes Be A Blessing

    If you’ve ever experienced unemployment you understand the fear and even PTSD it can create. Having the rug pulled from beneath your career and finances can leave you reeling and wondering what the future holds. It can also be a blessing in disguise, nudging some of us toward an entrepreneurial path. This week’s guest Rakia Reynolds (@rakiareynolds) founder and CEO of Skai Blue Media (www.skaibluemedia.com), is no stranger to braving the business owner trail. Her brief experience with unemployment led her to ask herself how she could prevent having her world turned upside down ever again. How could she ensure that her children would grow up financially secure? How could she stake her claim in an industry that didn’t necessarily have a designated space for all of her gifts and talents? There was no choice but to carve that space for herself. If you’re asking yourself the same questions, you DEFINITELY need to hear this episode.


    Follow your UnBossed host, ESSENCE Work & Money editor, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) and let her know what you think of the episode using #UnBossedPodcast! Share, comment and subscribe!


    2:46 - What was Rakia's very first job?

    9:45 - How Rakia rolled a TV production skills over to magazines!

    11:24 - How a setback became Rakia's genesis as an entrepreneur

    16:31 - Rakia's vision for Skai Blue Media + some of her clients

    24:17 - What it took for Rakia to start and effectively run a successful agency


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    Multi-Passionate? Your Path Doesn’t Have To Be Linear To Be Successful

    Multi-Passionate? Your Path Doesn’t Have To Be Linear To Be Successful

    Facebook COO, Sheryl Sandberg, once said that career paths are beginning to resemble a jungle gym rather than the ladders of our parents’ generations. We’re searching for more and are more inclined than ever to sculpt holistically fulfilling lives - careers included. Many of us are becoming comfortable blazing career paths that tap into our gifts. But there are still so many who are afraid to step into the unknown and take a chance on their passions. Umindi Francis Denis (@umindi360), founder and CEO of UFCG (@ufcgpr) - the international strategic brand consulting firm, knows all about following her passions to cut the trail best suited for her. From being a Neurobehavioral Psychology major at Temple University, to a successful run in investment banking, to becoming a PR expert, Umindi has experience in spades and story after story of how her desire to follow her dreams is the best decision anyone could ever make.


    Let us know what dreams you’re following and how linear (or nonlinear) your career path has been! Use #UnBossedPodcast and make sure to follow UnBossed host, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_)!


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    Sticking To Your Vision When Everyone Has Opinions

    Sticking To Your Vision When Everyone Has Opinions

    When everyone has opinions, it’s easy to get sidetracked from your vision for your life and business. Who we are as thinkers, leaders, visionaries, and innovators is vast and multi-faceted. So, what does it take to stay out of the box? Carly Cushnie (@CarlyCushnie), CEO of Cushnie - the luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand, stopped by UnBossed to discuss just that. As the visionary boss behind the highly sought-after brand (Forever First Lady Michelle Obama has worn Cushnie!), Carly gets real with UnBossed host, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) about her start in fashion, her vision for the brand, and how she’s brought a lifelong dream to life with a small staff and a determination to be truly unbossed. Use #UnBossedPodcast to share how you block out the noise in your business and life!


    • 5:40 - Carly describes coming to New York City
    • 15:54 - How Cushnie was created
    • 22:49 - Cushnie, the brand that dressed Michelle Obama
    • 27:03 - How Carly stays out of pigeonholes



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    Being A Boss Means Learning To Build...From The Ground Up

    Being A Boss Means Learning To Build...From The Ground Up

    Do you consume more than you create? Are you being interrupted by technology or are you utilizing it to disrupt unviable systems? How do you ensure that you get a healthy slice of the pie no matter what industry you’re in? On this episode of UnBossed, serial entrepreneur and social change agent, Sevetri Wilson (@sevetriwilson), offers insight into how she built her businesses: Solid Ground Innovations (SGI) and Resilia - a New Orleans-based technology startup, and how you can begin to think more like a builder and less like a consumer. Having bootstrapped her first business with no capital and becoming the first Black woman in New Orleans to raise over $1,000,000 in venture capital, Wilson’s career is a masterclass in growing healthy businesses from the ground up using the bricks and mortar of hard work, grit, and passion for social change.


    Use #UnBossedPodcast to tell us what you learned from this episode and follow host, Marquita Harris (IG: @marquita_harris_).



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    What Means More To You - Having a Title or Making an Impact?

    What Means More To You - Having a Title or Making an Impact?

    In a world where titles and salaries often eclipse purpose in the workplace, it’s time to bring impact back to the forefront. On this episode, marine biologist and ocean conservationist, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (IG: @ayanaeliza) shares her definition for living in your purpose and doing meaningful work, and the importance of creating your own lane, with or without a title. Learn more about Dr. Johnson’s work with Ocean Collectiv (@oceancollectiv) and follow UnBossed host, Marquita Harris (IG: @marquita_harris_) using #UnBossedPodcast to let us know your thoughts on the episode and how you’re making impact! 


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    Got A Dream? Let’s Talk About Funding It

    Got A Dream? Let’s Talk About Funding It

    For 14.1 million adults in the U.S. who don’t have a bank account, funding a startup or even purchasing a home is a distant dream. Though, one woman aims at closing the “unbanked” gap. In this episode, FinTech entrepreneur Sheena Allen (@whoIsSheena) explains how she’s serving our community with her app CapWay, and dishes on how we can all get the money we need to get our ideas off the ground floor. Visit capway.co. to learn more and follow host Marquita Harris (IG: @marquita_harris_) and tell us what you think of the episode using #UnBossedPodcast


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    You May Have Contacts, But Do You have Connections

    You May Have Contacts, But Do You have Connections

    During a time where social media was reigning and on the rise, ColorComm founder Lauren Wesley Wilson decided to do something different - build a community, in real life. On this episode, host Marquita Harris sits with Lauren to reflect on her personal journey, and how she took a need to connect Black voices in her industry and built a media rolodex worthy of a mogul.


    As always, reach out to Marquita (@marquita_harris_) on social (and share your Unbossed journey with us. Be sure to use #unbossedpodcast.


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    Never Be Ashamed To Talk About Money

    Never Be Ashamed To Talk About Money

    There are three things that you should never be ashamed of - valuing your worth, living in your purpose and talking about money. On this episode, host Marquita Harris sits with Chase Consumer Banking CEO, Thasunda Brown Duckett, to chat about her personal journey to ensure that Black women exceed their passion and earning potential, and how following her purpose guided her to change her parents' financial habits, just a few years before their retirement. 


    As always, reach out to Marquita (@marquita_harris_) on social (and share your Unbossed journey with us. Be sure to use #unbossedpodcast.


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    Blavity's CEO Morgan DeBaun Gives Lessons on Leveling Up

    Blavity's CEO Morgan DeBaun Gives Lessons on Leveling Up

    Starting a Business is Nice. Maintaining a Business is Hard Ass Work

    As Blavity celebrates its 5th anniversary, CEO, Morgan DeBaun (@morgandebaun) gives goal chasers a reality check on what it takes to maintain a business beyond titles and business cards. Spoiler alert: You have to work hard AND smart. 

    Host, Marquita Harris (@marquita_harris_) sat with Morgan for an honest conversation about the “freedom” of entrepreneurship. After listening to this episode, be sure to sign up for more gems on how to stay in business, through Morgan’s Work Smart program. Sign up at morgandebaun.com.

    As always, reach out to Marquita (@marquita_harris_) on social (and share your Unbossed journey with us. Be sure to use #unbossedpodcast.

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