Episode 57 - Empowering Communities through Health Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Workforce Development - with Blair Durham of Black BRAND

In this episode of The Health Literacy 2.0 Podcast, Seth Serxner welcomes Blair Durham, co-founder and CEO of Black BRAND, to discuss the intersection of workforce health literacy, economic empowerment, and community development, with a special focus on narrowing the racial wealth gap in Hampton Roads.Blair Durham is a dynamic leader who has spent the past decade building Black BRAND - Hampton Roads’ Regional Black Chamber of Commerce - into a powerhouse for business and professional development. With a background in psychology and sociology, and a keen passion for social equity, Blair is leading transformative initiatives in entrepreneurship, workforce preparation, access to capital, and financial sustainability that aim to strengthen and expand Black-owned businesses while fostering regional economic growth.Seth and Blair explore the strategies and outcomes of Black BRAND’s work, touching on the vital importance of health literacy in personal and collective economic success. Their conversation offers powerful insights for anyone interested in building healthier, more resilient, and inclusive communities.Key takeaways from their conversation:☑️ Black BRAND is committed to addressing gaps in business development, professional advancement, and entrepreneurship for the Black community - while simultaneously promoting regional economic growth.☑️ Black BRAND has facilitated millions of dollars in grants and loan access, and is now working to build its own financial institution to better serve graduates and local businesses.☑️ With over 700 entrepreneurs supported since COVID and targeted initiatives for women in workforce development, Black BRAND meticulously tracks outcomes to demonstrate real impact to funders and the community.☑️ Blair emphasizes that Black BRAND’s focus on workforce readiness and inclusive economic development transcends political winds, serving a broad business case that benefits all.☑️ Recognizing that health literacy is the single greatest determinant of health outcomes, Black BRAND integrates wellness initiatives - from educational forums to healthy workplace practices - into its broader economic mission.☑️ The organization is pioneering efforts to raise awareness among business owners about the critical connection between their personal well-being and professional success.Blair’s optimism and clear-eyed vision highlight the power of community-rooted partnerships and targeted action to advance both health and economic well-being.Links:Blair Durham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-durham-15528a17a/Black Brand: https://www.blackbrand.bizLearn About EdLogicsWant to see how EdLogics' gamified platform can boost health literacy, drive engagement in health and wellness programs, and help people live happier, healthier lives?Visit EdLogics.About The Health Literacy 2.0 PodcastImproving health literacy — the ability to understand and act on health information — is key to improving health outcomes and lowering costs. Together with business and community leaders, we'll explore effective, behavior-changing solutions that can improve health literacy — and drive engagement in corporate and public health and wellness programs. The Health Literacy 2.0 Podcast is produced by the HR podcast production agency.