Why Your Story Matters As A Small Business Owner - Ep. 162 w/ Mark S. Lee

What Up Doe?! This week, we’re tapping in with Mark S. Lee, a Detroit-based marketing and business expert, media personality, and trusted voice for small businesses across the city. With more than 25 years of experience in corporate marketing, entrepreneurship, and consulting, Mark has become a go-to authority on branding, customer relationships, and business growth. He’s the founder of The Lee Group, a Detroit-centered consulting firm focused on helping small and minority-owned businesses build sustainable strategies, and he’s been featured on outlets like CBS Detroit and PBS sharing insights on the local business landscape. This conversation dives deep into marketing fundamentals, Detroit’s small business ecosystem, and what entrepreneurs need to survive and scale in uncertain times. We’re talking: What marketing really means and how relationship-based marketing drives business growth How Detroit small businesses can build sustainable marketing strategies with limited capital The state of small businesses in Detroit, including access to capital, failure rates, and growth challenges Why networking, strategic planning, and advisory boards are critical for entrepreneurs Practical advice for entrepreneurs preparing for economic uncertainty in 2026 and beyond Join us for a masterclass-style conversation on marketing, media, and small business strategy, packed with real-world insights for entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals looking to build something that lasts in Detroit. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email [email protected] or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leegroup/ Guest Website: https://www.leegroupinnovation.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d