ideaHUb Innovators Podcast

In this episode, we're joined by Fenton Jagarnauth, owner of Fenton Jagnan LLC. Fenton has always been around business and business owners. Using the knowledge that he had in the past and realizing that he could profit from merging technology and carpentry, he started Fenton Jagan, LLC, a cabinet manufacturing company. According to Fenton, understanding your customers is the most challenging part about being an entrepreneur. The most rewarding part about being an entrepreneur is loving what he does. Fenton feels as though when someone loves his product, he feels as if he has accomplished something great and is going in the right direction. He advises another entrepreneur to pay attention to what advice is given to him. Understanding that you cannot or should not try to reinvent the whee,l and learn from other people’s mistakes.

In this episode, I’m joined by Acqullia A. Bailey, award-winning chef and founder of Quilla’s Catering, Inc.—a full-service catering company that’s been serving the tri-state area with heart and flavor for over 30 years.From soulful Caribbean dishes to elegant event planning, Acqullia has built a brand that feeds both the body and the community. Her story is one of resilience, service, and culinary excellence.🎧 Tune in for a deliciously inspiring conversation!About AcqulliaAcqullia A. Bailey, married to Everton Bailey; mother to daughters Sabra and Evera Bailey. Acqullia is a graduate of the New York Restaurant School, completing courses in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management. She is also the chef and owner of Quilla’s Catering, Inc., a full-service, home-based catering company located on Long Island, New York, successfully serving the tri-state area for 31 years! Quilla’s Catering, Inc. is a Certified New York State Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise- 2015.(“MWBE”)Quilla’s Catering, Inc. prides itself in providing tantalizing and delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts, featuring traditional Caribbean and Soul Food dishes, along with offering event planning consultation and services, for any occasion, to numerous churches, organizations, businesses, schools, universities, and private individuals.Clients include Hempstead Union Free School District (MBK), Epiphany Blue, JP Morgan Chase, Molloy College, United Way L.I, LIAACC, NYC MTA, Stony Brook University, Town of Oyster Bay Gap Program, and many more.“WE BRING THE PERSONAL TOUCH TO ANY AFFAIR WITH AS MUCH FLAIR AS YOU DARE!”Acqullia received the First Place Prize Award ($2,500) of Hofstra University’sEntrepreneurial Assistance Program’s Spring 2018 Capital One Bank Business Plan Competition. Acqullia was a cooking instructor at the ABGS Middle School, Hempstead, NY, for the Empire State Grant’s MBK Afterschool Program 2018-2020. Also, former President of the Hempstead Chamber of Commerce, 2017-2019. Acqullia was “Chef” at Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace and answered food questions at “Ask Quilla,” a food advice link on the website: www.Sams24-7.com.Acqullia was featured in Hempstead Living’s Spring 2012 edition article entitled “Quilla’s Catering Gets a New Heart and Second Chance.” Acqullia was a volunteer cooking instructor at the Hempstead Boys and Girls Club and Family and Children’s Association. Promise Project (VHI) After School Prog. and SummerCamp, 2008-2015. Acqullia catered a private luncheon for Governor David A. Patterson and Family in 2008. Acqullia was featured in Newsday’s “Who’s Cooking” food column dated April 22, 2007, and Newsday’s food section article entitled “Chef’s Soul Food Picnic” dated July 4, 2007. In 2002, Quilla’s Catering hosted a lavish “Culinary Sampling Presentation” highlighting event venue decorating and food garnishing flair. Acqullia was featured on FOX TV’s Good Day New York’s “Women Who Work From Home” segment in 1998. In 1996, Acqullia provided craft services for the “Damon Wayans HBO Special”. Acqullia has conducted “LIVE” food demonstrations at the Hempstead Public Library and the Baldwin Public Library featuring “Healthy and Delicious” recipes, Caribbean Fare, Soul Food Dishes, Fresh Fruit Flower Arrangements, Simple Chicken Dishes, and more.

In this episode, I’m joined by Janna Rodriguez—a powerful voice in early childhood education, civic engagement, and community empowerment.From working on political campaigns at 14 to founding Innovative Daycare Corp, Janna has built a career rooted in service, equity, and advocacy. Her work bridges education, policy, and small business—making her a true champion for families and the future.🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, purpose, and creating impact from the ground up.About Janna Janna Rodriguez is a seasoned advocate for early childhood education with over two decades of experience in political activism, healthcare, and community engagement. Her journey began at the age of 14 when she volunteered for local and national political campaigns, including roles with Congressman Gregory Meeks and various state and county races. Her early start in politics provided her with a strong foundation in government policy and civic engagement. Parallel to her political endeavors, Janna launched a career in healthcare at 16, working at renowned institutions such as South Nassau Communities Hospital and Nassau University Medical Center. By 18, she was the youngest Nursing Assistant and later became the youngest Cardiac Monitor Technician in her department, showcasing her ability to excel in diverse fields. Her passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from CUNY York College, where she also served as Treasurer of the Student Government Association for two years. Janna further solidified her commitment to early childhood education by obtaining a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education at Brooklyn College, set to be completed in December 2025. As the Owner and Provider of Innovative Daycare Corp in Freeport, NY, Janna has dedicated herself to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive. Her role involves not just day-to-day operations but also advocating for better childcare policies and practices. Previously, she co-owned Juliet Little Angels, LLC, where she gained extensive experience managing early childhood programs. Janna is actively involved in organizations such as The CDA Council, NAEYC, Small Business Majority, Childcare Changemakers, and The CSEA/VOICE Union. She leverages her deep knowledge of government regulations, media strategy, and community dynamics to advocate for policies that support early childhood education and small businesses. With her extensive background, Janna Rodriguez stands as a powerful advocate for children, families, and communities, driven by a passion for education, equity, and empowerment.

Today’s guests are Dawn Kelly, and her partner and daughter, Jade Duncan, owners of The Nourish Spot Inc., a healthy food and beverage haven in Queens, NY. Dawn launched the Nourish Spot with her two children after a 35+ year career in PR and communications. From corporate boardrooms to community-based entrepreneurship, Dawn has transformed her passion for wellness and service into award-winning business success—all while uplifting youth and advancing economic equity.🎧 Tune in to hear how she’s nourishing her community, one smoothie and one person at a time.

In this episode, we're joined by Sean Phillips—a seasoned Sales and Marketing executive who made the leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship.After decades with top brands like Coca-Cola, MTV, and NBCUniversal, Sean founded Genesis Signs & Graphics, a full-service, minority-owned commercial sign company based in Farmingdale, NY. He brings creativity, strategy, and community impact to everything he does.🎧 Tune in for a story of reinvention, legacy, and entrepreneurial vision.About SeanSean Phillips has been a creative Sales and Marketing executive for over 30 years, having worked for many Fortune 500 companies, including Kodak, Coca-Cola, MTV, BET, Turner Broadcasting, and NBCUniversal. Wanting to control his own destiny, Sean left corporate America in 2016 to begin his entrepreneurial career. In 2017, Genesis Signs & Graphics was born, and as Owner & CEO, Sean is responsible for sales development and client relationships for the business. Genesis Signs & Graphics is a full-service, minority-owned commercial sign company in Farmingdale, NY, producing a complete range of sign solutions for a wide variety of client types and industries. When he’s not out growing the sign business, Sean can be found behind a set of turntables, DJing an event, or making music mixes at home. A proud graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, Sean has also been an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., whose purpose is to make a social and economic impact in the community. And if there’s any time leftover, you might catch Sean on the golf course practicing for retirement. A native of Westbury, Sean currently lives in Freeport with his wife and business partner, Sharen, and their two sons, Miles and Justin, who are both in college. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Godson Michel, President of Blue Surge Marketing Agency and founder of BlackLongIslandBusiness.com.From turning a sneaker hustle into a million-dollar e-commerce success to being named a 2024 Top 50 Black Marketer, Godson has become a force in growth marketing and community empowerment.🎧 Tune in as he shares insights on scaling businesses, representation, and making meaningful impact through marketing.BIOGodson Michel, President of Blue Surge Marketing Agency, launched his career by turning a college-funding sneaker business into a million-dollar e-commerce venture, gaining recognition in as a Growth Marketing Consultant. He also serves as the founder of the BlackLongIslandBusiness.com. Previously, he co-owned Shades of Long Island, promoting diverse voices, and was honored as a Top 50 Black Marketer in 2024 by the African American Marketing Association. A member of 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, he has completed the Ascend Long Island business accelerator and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Supplier Diversity Mentoring Program.

In this episode, we're joined by Virginia Gonzalez, co-founder of Aris Construction—a trusted residential and commercial construction company known for its quality craftsmanship and commitment to safety.An immigrant from Guatemala with a passion for building, Virginia turned a long-held dream into a thriving business alongside her husband, proving that determination and vision can lay the foundation for success.🎧 Tune in to hear her journey of grit, growth, and building from the ground up.

Today’s guest is a true force of faith and beauty—Dbora, founder of Dbora Cosmetics and Women in Power, joined by her business partner and son, Romee Gooden.For over 20 years, Dbora has built an inspiring cosmetics empire rooted in self-worth, service, and empowerment. From working with royalty and celebrities to uplifting women in shelters, hospitals, and underserved communities, she’s on a mission to help women feel confident—inside and out.🎧 Get ready for a conversation filled with purpose, elegance, and unstoppable faith.INSTAGRAM: @ROMEEGOODENYOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@romeegooden?si=xdFJYzrUAJKUiTQGFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063903228998

In this episode, we're joined by Clifford Exil, Founder and CEO of JetEx Mechanical LLC—a veteran and minority-owned certified business making major waves in HVAC, plumbing, and general construction.With over 15 years of industry experience and contracts with clients like the MTA, Columbia University, and Honeywell, Clifford is building more than just infrastructure—he’s investing in communities and future talent through workforce initiatives and global partnerships.🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on building a mission-driven, multimillion-dollar enterprise.LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jetex-mechanical-llc/WEBSITE: https://jetexmechanical.com/

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Joy Williams—a powerhouse at the intersection of wellness, entrepreneurship, and community leadership.Joy is the Associate Director of Community Engagement at Hofstra University’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Founder & CEO of SoulJoy Wellness, a lifestyle brand empowering Black women in mind, body, and soul. With deep roots in service, strategy, and innovation, Joy shares how she’s using her platform to address health disparities, uplift entrepreneurs, and build purpose-driven communities.

In this episode, we're joined by Avi Mukherjee, Hofstra University’s Pre-Award Grants Manager and past Assistant Director of Grant Writing and Management at Hofstra's Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.With over eight years of experience supporting interdisciplinary research and strategic initiatives, Avi joins us to share expert tips on navigating the world of grant writing—how to position your ideas, build strong proposals, and secure funding to fuel innovation.🎧 You won’t want to miss this practical and insightful conversation!

In this episode, we're joined by Paul Williams—a dynamic CEO, multi-business owner, tech strategist, and national community leader. As the force behind Absolutely Trophies Inc. and GI Integrated Computer Solutions, Paul has built businesses that serve everyone from major institutions to local communities. But his influence doesn’t stop there—he’s also the founder of the Inner City Handball Association, a Hall of Fame athlete, and a nationally recognized mentor and nonprofit leader.About PaulPaul Williams, CEO of Absolutely Trophies Inc. MBE located in Bayside Queens is a custom recognition awards builder, promotional products provider and custom sports apparel supplier . Paul’s is also CEO of GI Integrated Computer Solutions Inc. a small business IT consulting company specializing in hardware and software solutions. Paul is a native of Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn and current Brooklyn resident. He is an alumnus of Brooklyn Technical H.S., Hunter College, Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business Program and Hofstra Ascend Program. Paul has an Associate degree in Physics, and Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Paul has a strong sense of giving back to the community that has helped him obtain success and welcomes teen interns annually in his businesses . In 1991, Paul founded the 33-year-old Inner City Handball Association Inc., a 501C3 charity which educates, mentors and serves hundreds of young athletes each year through the sport of Handball, in addition to serving on the Board of Managers for the Jamaica Queens YMCA. Paul also is the current Chairman of the New York Athletic Club Elite Handball team helping to develop world class Handball champions. Paul is a National USHA Handball and NY State Handball Hall of Fame member. He was also the first African American to serve on the board and as Vice President of the United States Handball Association and as President of the World Handball Council. Paul is also a recipient of the 2022 Queens Borough President & United States Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards for Community Service. You can connect with him on social:INSTAGRAM@ichandballhttps://www.instagram.com/absolutelytrophies/ FACEBOOKhttps://www.facebook.com/AbsolutelyTrophiesInc/# LINKEDINhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/absolutelytrophies WEBSITEhttps://www.absolutelytrophies.com/ MEDIA HIGHLIGHTShttps://www.blackenterprise.com/how-this-entrepreneur-reinvented-himself-to-become-a-winner-in-the-trophy-business/ 

This episode features Frederick Towles, an accountant, author, speaker, and finance coach committed to helping others unlock their full potential.As the founder of The Towles Group Inc., Frederick empowers individuals and small businesses with the tools they need for financial freedom, leadership, and long-term success. He also leads a non-profit, Unlimited Expectations Inc., where he teaches youth about money and entrepreneurship.Connect with Frederick on his social accounts:INSTAGRAM - @mrtowles @towlesgroupTIKTOK - @fredtowlesYOUTUBE - @fredericktowles2933LINKEDIN - Frederick TowlesWEBSITE - www.thetowlesgroupinc.comFACEBOOK - facebook.com/TheTowlesGroupIncTWITTER - www.twitter.com/TTGInc

In this episode, we're joined by Coralie Saint-Louis—a journalist-turned-media and tech entrepreneur with a mission to reshape how we consume news.Coralie is the creator of Enpak, a social media app delivering real-time, verified local news from accredited journalists—designed to build more informed and civically engaged communities. With deep roots in Haiti and a passion for inclusive media, Coralie is leading the way in tech for good.Connect with her on her social channels:Instagram: @enpaksocialTikTok: @enpaksocialYouTube: @tdnmediaLinkedIn: Coralie Saint-Louis and Enpak SocialWebsite: https://enpaksocial.com/

Today on the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, we have the privilege of speaking with Vanessa Best, an award-winning entrepreneur and the CEO & Founder of Precision HealthCare Consultants. Based in Baldwin, New York, Vanessa’s company has become a trailblazer in healthcare quality improvement, regulatory compliance, and ensuring equitable access to care. Serving 39 states and 11 countries, Precision HealthCare Consultants works with top organizations like CMS, CDC, and major hospital systems, driving innovative solutions that improve healthcare outcomes for underserved communities.Join us as we discuss Vanessa’s incredible journey, from growing her company to becoming a recognized leader in the healthcare industry, to her commitment to mentorship and empowering young professionals. She’s an advocate for health equity, a supporter of women entrepreneurs, and an inspiration to all who aim to break barriers in business and healthcare.BioVanessa Best, CEO & Founder, Precision HealthCare ConsultantsVanessa Best is an award-winning entrepreneur and the CEO & Founder of Precision HealthCare Consultants, a leading firm specializing in healthcare quality improvement assurance, regulatory compliance, and equitable access to care. Headquartered in Baldwin, NY, the company has expanded to serve 39 states, 11 countries, and three continents, delivering innovative solutions that drive healthcare excellence and inclusivity across diverse populations.A trailblazer in the healthcare industry, Vanessa has successfully positioned Precision HealthCare Consultants as a trusted federal government vendor, securing both prime and subcontracts with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and nationwide health agencies, hospital systems and insurance companies. Recently, her company expanded its impact by hiring a Medical Director with Clinical Trials Recruitment and Surveillance pharmaceutical experience, reinforcing its mission to improve healthcare access and outcomes for underserved communities through strategic partnerships and data-driven solutions.Additionally, Precision HealthCare Consultants is a recognized expert in Market Access Plans, helping pharmaceutical and life sciences companies expand their reach into healthcare deserts. Through targeted strategies, the firm assists these organizations in navigating regulatory pathways, optimizing payer engagement, and ensuring that innovative therapies reach the communities that need them most.Vanessa’s journey is deeply personal—driven by the legacy of her late mother, who instilled in her the value of hard work, resilience, and giving back. Inspired by trailblazers like Madam C.J. Walker, she continues to break barriers, empower others, and transform the healthcare industry through innovation, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to health equity. 

On this episode of the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, our host, Dr. Lutisha Vickerie, sits down with Kenia Osorio-Wellington of Kear Solutions. The idea for “Kear Solutions” came from a suggestion from Kenia’s father-in-law. He saw that there was a big opportunity to clean commercial offices. Many people were unhappy with the cleaning services they had, and Kenia knew she could provide a much better level of service. Kenia says, “We want them to come into the office the next day and feel like they walked into a clean healthy environment.” Even though she hated helping her mom clean when she was younger, Kenia knew this was a great opportunity to provide a quality service and provide for her family; so, her and her husband started Kear Solutions.For Kenia, the most challenging part of being a business owner is making sure she defines and sticks to her priorities and goals. She has to balance a lot of different elements of life (including two kids who are both under the age of two!) and it can be hard to make sure God, friends, family, and work are all aligned. That said, Kenia finds being a business owner to be very rewarding and has loved being able to give back to the community by creating jobs and providing quality services. She loves “doing life” with all of her employees and makes sure that she builds personal relationships with each of her employees.In five years, Kenia has plans for her business to be thriving and fully competing with other business. She also hopes that her business can make a big impact in the Corridor and can help create many jobs for her community. In the Ascend program, Kenia is enjoying building lots of new connections who can help her achieve her goals. About the program she says, “I felt blessed to be surrounded by great entrepreneurs who decided to say yes no matter what the circumstances are.” She also says that Ascend is providing her with a space to really learn and critically think about how to grow her business.Kenia says that starting and owning a business is like raising a child, but it is worth it! To aspiring entrepreneurs, she encourages them to take the leap and use their gifts and talents to make a difference in the world. She also urges entrepreneurs to not focus on the money; rather to focus on what they are passionate about because that is how their business will succeed.Kenia is extremely busy with parenting, working a regular part-time job, and running a business, but she still makes sure to set aside time for herself. She loves reading, praying, and meditating. She also gets massages with her employees once a month to help relax from the hard work they do on a daily basis.

On this episode of the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, our host, Dr. Lutisha Vickerie, sits down with Marie Saint-Cyr, owner of Saint-Cyr Art Studio.Marie E. Saint-Cyr is a visionary artist, muralist, and the Founder & CEO of Saint-Cyr Art Studio. Marie has transformed public spaces through large-scale murals while fostering art education and community engagement. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, she built a million-dollar mural company in just three years, participated in over 11 business development programs, and continues to create opportunities for artists. Join us as we explore her journey in bridging art, business, and community impact.About MarieIn 2018, Marie graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and studied Studio Art at the Lorenzo De Medici in Florence, Italy. In just 3 years Marie was awarded a one-year residency with the Haiti Cultural Exchange, an art and business fellowship with the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, started her $1M mural company, participated in 11+ Business development programs such as Goldman Sachs and Tuck School of Business; all while creating employment opportunities for artists and engaging communities in the mural making process. When she is not painting or running her business, Marie can be found traveling the world and trying out new foods! 

We open the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast with Dr. Richard N. Hayes, Executive Director of Hofstra University's Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and an Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Frank G. Zarb School of Business. Dr. Hayes has transformed Hofstra’s entrepreneurship program, through impactful initiatives like the Ascend Long Island Program, the Hofstra-Digital Remedy Venture Challenge, and the Scott Skodnek Business Development Center. With global teaching experience and accolades in entrepreneurship, Dr. Hayes is a true leader in fostering learning, research, and venture growth in business.