Black Bridge Mindset

Send us Fan MailOn the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ welcome Chef J.C. Pinckney, CEO of The Bougie Palate, a Tampa-based luxury catering and private chef brand inspired by her Barbados roots and love of Louisiana Creole cuisine. J.C. shares how she started cooking for friends during COVID, formalized the business in 2022, and learned entrepreneurship through free one-on-one support from the SBDC, including financial literacy, pricing strategy, and post-event “autopsies.” She explains why she avoids opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant, how she prices luxury catering (including retainers and paid tastings), and what customers often misunderstand about catering costs. J.C. discusses staffing, project management systems, marketing through social media and word of mouth, catering events up to 700+ people, and her goals to open a commissary/ghost kitchen, expand revenue streams, and create a cookbook and cooking classes.Website: https://thebougiepalate.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebougiepalateThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts introduce Erica Hughes, founder of Morningstar Counseling Services in Louisville, Kentucky, a practice supporting teens and adults through depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions with a gentle, empowering approach. Erica shares her path from sociology and criminology studies to Child Protective Services, then earning a master’s in mental health counseling and opening her private practice in 2018 without a formal business plan. She discusses learning business essentials like finding mentors, hiring support, getting an accountant, managing taxes, insurance, networking, and social media, and balancing therapy work with leadership, motherhood, and boundaries. The conversation covers increased openness to therapy post-COVID, especially among Black clients and men, how to suggest therapy sensitively, and ways to reduce stigma. Erica also highlights her children’s book, “The Courage Within,” and her goals to expand into hospitals and corporate mental health education.Instagram: @mstar_counselingWebsite: Morning Star Counseling 00:00 Podcast Cold Open00:27 Madrid Jet Lag Banter01:40 Meet Erica Hughes03:17 Louisville vs Chicago Check In04:19 Morningstar Services Team05:23 From CPS to Counseling09:01 Launching the Practice11:19 Moving Through Fear14:15 Therapy in Black Communities18:00 Entrepreneur Lessons Learned21:10 Creating a Safe Space22:24 Therapist Self Care Boundaries23:28 Minority Hurdles Ahead23:54 Breaking Into Louisville25:06 Building Without A Plan27:08 Mentors And Mistakes28:17 Boundaries And Self Care30:39 Friends As Employees32:37 Finding The Right Therapist35:02 Proud Of Morningstar36:18 Bigger Vision Ahead37:38 Talking About Therapy39:33 Dispelling Black Stigma42:22 Children's Book Journey44:16 Where To Find Erica45:22 Culture And ClosingThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Blackbridge Mindset Podcast, the hosts discuss Midwest weather and long TSA lines at Atlanta’s airport before welcoming Chicago-based people and talent leader Deshawn Barrett, Director of Talent Development at SpotHero, with 15+ years in HR and talent roles at ADP, PowerReviews, Victoria’s Secret/PINK, and more. Deshawn explains HR as a broad system beyond hiring and firing, covering benefits, fair pay, growth and development, compliance (including I-9s), policies, and balancing business needs with employee support. He shares guidance for entrepreneurs on when to use fractional HR or hybrid office manager roles, what to look for in a first HR hire, how culture is built through behaviors and feedback (not perks), and how leaders set the tone. He also advises addressing toxic high performers quickly, and emphasizes knowing your business and desired culture before hiring.00:00 Podcast Welcome00:27 Spring Weather Banter01:41 ATL Airport TSA Chaos04:01 Meet Deshawn Barrett06:24 Deshawn Origin Story10:18 What HR Really Does15:06 When to Hire HR15:51 Quick Like and Follow16:27 Fractional HR Options19:47 Hiring Your First HR33:01 Culture vs Perks35:27 Feedback Without Negativity36:48 Accountability and Listening38:54 Culture of Fear Warning40:07 Lead by Example41:12 Recognition and Rewards43:17 Preparing to Hire HR45:49 Templates and Shortcuts47:21 Like and Follow Break47:57 Retaining Your HR Leader53:08 Toxic High Performers57:17 Advice Before First Hire01:00:05 Contact and Closing RitualThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailKevin Tyler on Building Bay & BNE, Fractional Marketing, and Storytelling That Moves PeopleThe Blackbridge Mindset Podcast hosts catch up and introduce guest Kevin Tyler, a marketing strategist and founder of Bay & BNE, a Santa Monica boutique consultancy named after Bay and Bicknell streets and the nearby historic “Inkwell” beach space. Kevin explains how the company’s name reflects lineage, identity, and the importance of storytelling in modern branding, emphasizing that businesses should practice the same storytelling they sell. He shares his path from varied agency and higher-ed roles to entrepreneurship after leaving a toxic DC agency on December 18, 2024, using 2025 to validate his concept before forming an LLC and scaling with freelancers. Kevin defines fractional marketing, discusses pricing evolution, vetting and rejecting misaligned clients, and advises entrepreneurs to invest in clear messaging and strategy to reach audiences where they already are.00:00 Welcome to Blackbridge00:27 Catching Up and Travel Plans01:40 Airport Chaos Talk02:37 Meet Kevin Tyler04:15 Bay and BNE Origin Story06:11 Storytelling as Strategy07:18 Why He Went Solo10:34 Launching the Consultancy13:03 Cutting the Golden Handcuffs15:39 What Fractional Marketing Means17:42 Favorite Brand Projects22:14 Marketing That Moves People24:41 Pricing and Value27:06 DIY Branding on a Budget29:38 Marketing Yourself Through Community31:46 Client Fit and Red Flags34:05 1000 Dollars Marketing Plan35:24 Marketing Truths and Shortcuts36:52 Creativity as Fuel38:18 Where to Find Kevin38:48 Podcast and Book Shoutouts40:34 Food Favorites and Travel41:41 Referrals and Closing RitualInsta: @bayandbicknellWebsite: www.bayandbicknell.comThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailSeason two of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast kicks off with hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ welcoming Spencer, founder of Twisted Twigs by Spencer, a handcrafted wreath and garland business built around unique designs and the stories behind them. Spencer shares how a long-time hobby and encouragement from friends and family led him to launch, how each piece begins with a short story and theme, and why customer service and communication are central to his brand. He discusses costs, vendor research, budgeting, timelines, turnaround expectations, customization workflow, and using website analytics and social media to guide marketing. Spencer describes early validation through pop-ups and neighbor sales, upcoming seasonal collections, and goals like farmers markets and pride events, and he leaves a question for the next guest about defining moments in business.Web: https://www.twistedtwigsbyspencer.comFacebook Twisted Twigs By Spencer Insta @twistedtwigsbyspencerThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailMandy Ralston: Innovating Autism Care with Tech and Big Data | Black Bridge Mindset Podcast Welcome to another engaging episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, where we explore the powerful intersection of culture, entrepreneurship, and business. In this episode, hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ are joined by an extraordinary guest, Mandy Ralston. Mandy is a queer neurodivergent serial entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in behavior analysis. As a certified behavior analyst, Mandy has founded and scaled multiple clinics focused on applied behavior analysis (ABA) for autism and other developmental disabilities. Dive deep into Mandy's journey of entrepreneurship, her cutting-edge tech startup Non-Binary Solutions, and the role of big data and AI in transforming autism care. Learn about the importance of diverse perspectives, personalized medicine, and get valuable insights into how to start and scale a business in the healthcare field. If you're looking for serious inspiration and actionable advice, this episode is a must-watch! 00:00 Welcome to the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast00:38 Saturday Morning Catch-Up03:33 Introducing Our Special Guest: Amanda Mandy Ralston06:41 Mandy's Journey into Behavior Analysis11:46 Building and Scaling Clinics15:54 Starting Non-Binary Solutions20:09 Navigating the Startup World30:38 The Importance of Social Media and Networking31:47 Why a Tech Company?33:03 The Surge in Autism Providers33:59 The Role of Technology in Autism Diagnosis35:17 Big Data and Personalized Medicine36:04 Understanding Autism Spectrum37:44 Intensity of Applied Behavior Analysis40:30 Managing Bias in Professional Settings45:19 Entrepreneurial Influences and Journey49:55 Introducing Noetic AI52:56 Advice for Parents and Clinicians55:32 Lightning Round and Closing RemarksGuest’s Socials:Website: Nonbinary Solutions , Amanda RalstonFacebook: Nonbinary SolutionsInstagram: nonbinary_solutionsThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ sit down with Keith Lamar Jr., founder and managing attorney of the Law Offices of Keith Lamar Jr. Keith shares his journey from a DA to owning his successful law firm, offering insights on entrepreneurship, community engagement, and the importance of having a strong mindset. From tackling his LSAT fears to landing an unexpected sponsorship with the Money Team, Keith’s story is filled with inspiration and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and attorneys alike. Tune in to hear about his game-changing approach to personal injury law and how he stands out in a saturated market. Don’t miss his tips on team management, marketing yourself, and maintaining a strong community presence. 00:00 Welcome to the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast03:03 Weekend Adventures and Rising Costs05:11 Introducing Our Esteemed Guest: Keith Lamar, Jr.08:05 Keith Lamar's Journey to Becoming an Attorney11:46 Building and Expanding a Successful Law Firm15:16 The Importance of Mentorship and Team Building30:26 Advice for Aspiring Attorneys and Entrepreneurs32:13 Building Momentum: Early Wins and Challenges32:33 Taking the Leap: Starting from Scratch32:58 Hustling for Clients: Creative Strategies34:27 Pandemic Impact: Adapting to New Realities34:52 Faith and Endurance: Staying Motivated39:05 Marketing and Community Involvement43:54 The Realities of Being a Lawyer51:24 Speed Round and Final ThoughtsGuest's Socials:WEBSITE: HTTPS://WWW.LAMARLAWOFFICES.COM/Facebook: @lawofficeofkeithlamarjrInstagram @simplykeithThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the latest episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast! Hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ dive into a riveting conversation with Columbus-based photographer Ray LaVoie. Discover how Ray turned his passion for photography into a thriving business, tackled challenges, and the importance of surrounding yourself with a reliable network. From discussing imposter syndrome to navigating the complexities of corporate America and maintaining authenticity in a world increasingly influenced by AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don't miss out on Ray's practical advice for budding photographers and entrepreneurs alike.00:00 Welcome to the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast03:11 Corporate Frustrations and Upcoming Plans04:49 Excitement for the Beyonce Concert07:17 Introducing Special Guest: Ray LaVoie08:37 Ray LaVoie's Journey into Photography11:37 Transition from Corporate America to Photography15:25 Networking and First Big Client20:40 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome24:08 Navigating Business as a Minority25:43 Choosing the Right Talent for the Job27:56 Solo Entrepreneur vs. CEO30:35 The Importance of a Reliable Network32:49 Advice for Aspiring Photographers36:49 Challenges in Photography43:38 Quick Fire Questions47:50 Final Thoughts and FarewellGuest's Social MediaWebsite: https://www.raylavoie.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RayLavoiePhotoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/raylavoieThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ welcome John Larkin, CEO and partner of Electronic Systems Consultants (ESC). John shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his start in the Air Force to creating a successful fire protection empire. The discussion covers the importance of having a passion for your business, the challenges of entrepreneurship, strategic growth, and the value of mentorship. Tune in for insights on building a business from the ground up, maintaining a family-oriented company culture, and managing work-life balance.00:00 Welcome to the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast01:09 Celebrating Podcast Milestones04:13 Introducing Today's Special Guest: John Larkin05:58 John Larkin's Journey: From Air Force to Fire Protection10:43 Building a Business from Scratch11:10 Navigating Financial Challenges13:46 The Importance of Passion and Opportunity18:23 Scaling and Evolving the Business23:56 Overcoming Challenges and Building a Strong Team30:56 Understanding Financial Basics31:43 The Importance of Mentorship32:24 Paying It Forward33:23 Building Company Culture38:29 Managing Employee Expectations44:57 Balancing Payroll and Personal Time55:22 Lightning Round and Closing RemarksGuest's Website: http://www.esc-oh.comThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ have a lively and inspiring discussion with Dr. Kwane Watson, founder and CEO of Kare Mobile, Inc. Dr. Watson shares his journey from a young entrepreneur to a pioneering dentist with a focus on mobile oral healthcare. They discuss the inception of Kare Mobile, the challenges faced, innovative solutions for underserved communities, and the importance of representation in the dental field. Tune in for gems on entrepreneurship, resilience, and breaking barriers in healthcare innovation.Guest's Socials:Website: https://karemobile.com/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kare.mobile/?hl=enFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/karemobiledentalAlso, check out Dr. Watson's current venture and opportunities in his latest video found here:https://youtu.be/RIHaUKdZPRk?si=IqNESAM4XQGshcmYThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast where culture, entrepreneurship, and business intersect to fuel inspiration! In this must-watch episode, your hosts Mike, Ken, and CJ sit down with Afra Smith, the visionary founder and CEO of The Melanin Project. Discover Afra's incredible journey from being bogged down by debt and financial hardship to becoming a beacon of financial empowerment. She shares practical tips on changing your financial mindset, the power of community collaboration, and her unique A-O-D-E-C approach to financial wellness. Learn how to control your financial future, build generational wealth, and break free from financial constraints. This episode is packed with actionable insights and motivational stories that will inspire you to take charge of your financial life. Don't miss out! Guest's Socials:Website: https://www.themelaninproject2053.com/Instagram: @_themelaninproject2053Facebook: @themelaninproject2053Thank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailJoin hosts Mike, CJ, and Ken on the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast as they celebrate culture, entrepreneurship, and business! In this episode, they welcome Sunny Jackson, the dynamic owner and creative director of Chicago-based The Sunniest Designs. Sunny shares her inspiring journey, from humble beginnings without equipment to running one of the most celebrated floral design companies. Tune in to hear about her challenges, unique business approaches, and how she's transforming the floral industry. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and flower enthusiasts! 🌼 Guest's Socials:Website: http://www.thesunniestdesigns.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesunniestdesigns/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesunniestdesignsThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailJoin us on this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, where culture, entrepreneurship, and business intersect to fuel inspiration. Co-hosts CJ, Ken, and Mike introduce special guest George E. Ross Jr., the mastermind behind the House of Ross Coffee Bar and Cigar Lounge in Paducah, Kentucky. Discover George's journey of turning a long-held dream into reality, the challenges faced during the process, and the importance of community and collaboration. Learn about the unique blend of coffee and cigars that creates a relaxing atmosphere for meaningful conversations. Plus, get insights on writing a business plan, the value of networking, and continual learning. Don’t miss out on George's inspiring story and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs!Website: The House of Ross Coffee Bar and Cigar LoungeInstagram: The.House.of.RossFB: The House of Ross Coffee BarThank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailWelcome to another exciting episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, where culture, entrepreneurship, and business fuels inspiration! 🎙️ Today, we’re thrilled to host Sandy Daniels, the creative force behind Symphony Love, a bold and culturally inspired women’s fashion brand based in Chicago. Sandy shares her fascinating journey from childhood sketches to launching Symphony Love officially in 2023, overcoming self-doubt and harnessing the power of vision boards. 🌟 Follow along as Sandy talks about her unique designs, upcoming fashion shows, and her plans for life and business coaching. Whether you're building a business, breaking barriers, or seeking some serious inspo, you're in the right place! 🔥👗Follow Symphony Love:Website: symphonylove.comFacebookInstagramEmail: [email protected] you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Black Bridge Mindset Podcast, hosts CJ from Columbus, Ken from Atlanta and Mike from Chicago introduce their inspiring guest, David Mollema. Known for his vibrant personality and entrepreneurial prowess, David is the CEO of Epic Photography and Events, Destination Dream Makers, and Number 8 Tea + Co. The discussion delves into his ventures, his innovative use of AI and tech, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from early business mistakes. They explore his approach to addressing market needs, specifically in destination weddings, and his success in the premium tea market. David shares insights on maintaining motivation, navigating intellectual property issues, and overcoming challenges, such as hacking incidents. The hosts also share personal anecdotes, and the episode ends with a fun segment called the 'Wakanda Peace Pause.'Thank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen

Send us Fan MailIn this inaugural episode of the Blackbridge Mindset Podcast, hosts Mike, CJ, and Ken introduce their vision and bring on their first guest, Ronita Coleman. Ronita, a mechanical engineer by training, turned her career towards real estate development and community impact. She shares her journey from buying her grandparents' house to establishing a thriving career in Detroit's commercial real estate sector. The conversation covers her significant achievements, such as rehabilitating the historic Casa del Rey into affordable housing, the importance of community engagement, and the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur. They also delve into the role of resilience, the crucial partnership with her husband, and her approach to managing work-life balance. The episode concludes with a Q&A lightning round and a unique 'Wakanda Peace Pause' tradition.Be ready to take notes as Black Bridge Mindset's journey begins. Thank you for listening! Follow our socials! FacebookInstagramYouTube TikTok Contact us: Email: [email protected]  Hosts:Mike CJKen