The Kickback With Keri

What was supposed to be a 5-6 week pause, turned into a much needed two month break.In this bonus episode, I'm sharing why I took a two-month break from podcasting and what the break taught me about podcast consistency, creative burnout, and building slowly.As a creator building a podcast with a full-time job, I've had to rethink what consistency looks like for me. I also learned that taking a break doesn't necessarily mean losing momentum. Sometimes rest gives you the space to refocus, refine your work, and come back with more creativity.If you're balancing a side hustle with a full-time job or trying to stay consistent as a content creator, this episode is your reminder that you don't have to build at everyone else's pace.Building slowly is still building.

The Kickback With Keri podcast is going on summer break. New episodes will resume at the end of July.In the meantime, please do the following:Listen to a previous episode that you missed.Rate/Review the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.Share this podcast with at least one person.Thank you for being part of this community!📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

Tired of coming out of pocket to fund your business?Grant funding is one of the most overlooked income sources for small businesses and solopreneurs. Most grants offer a way to fund your business without going into debt. This bonus episode highlights five platforms that offer grant funding opportunities and resources to help your business grow. Platforms:Capital KlubHello AliceThe Well WorkFor All Things DigitalBlack Tech Saturdays📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#38: Creators have the power and Hollywood is taking notice. KevOnStage's new deal with Tubi proves it.There was a time when shows couldn't get the green light without studio backing. These days, creators aren't waiting for an industry to validate them.Instead, they are creating their own content and building their audiences and studios and streaming platforms are knocking on their door.This week we’re breaking down comedian and creator KevOnStage's new expansive partnership with Tubi, Jordan Brand scaling back it's first sneaker and the leadership lessons we can learn from Kevin Hart.In this episode, we discuss:What KevOnStage's historic Tubi partnership signals for the creator economyWhy audience ownership matters more than everHow legacy brands like Jordan Brand can remain relevant with the change in sneaker cultureWhy every founder isn't meant to be CEOWhether you own your audience, are working to regain your audience or have to learn how to get out of your own way, the theme is the same: know where the power lies.Resources:Deadline: KevOnStage Signs New Tubi DealAfroTech: KevOnStage Expanded PartnershipBlex Media: Owning His Work & The Creator EconomyHipHop Wired: Jordan Brand to Cut Back on Air Jordan 1 ReleasesLA Times: Inside A Year of Chaos and Turmoil At Kevin Hart's Media Company📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

We’re all trying to make healthier food choices; shopping organic, buying local, and choosing more plant-based options. But what if “plant-based” doesn’t automatically mean healthy?In this hot take, Chunky Vegan founder Camille Hardy unpacks common myths about plant-based foods, the rise of processed ingredients in foods many of us grew up eating, and why spending more on organic food could actually save you more in the long run.Listen to the full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#37: She had the idea that would change her life and did nothing with it for three years.Angelique Warner was in the middle of nursing with a house of 18 kids when a vision came to her. A baby carrier designed to support breastfeeding, postpartum mobility, and mother-child bonding.She saw it clearly. Then let it pass.It wasn't until her youngest was starting preschool that she finally put pen to paper and turned that vision into a reality.Today, Angelique is the first Black woman to create a patented baby carrier designed to support breastfeeding, postpartum mobility, maternal health, and parent-child bonding.Angelique opens up about the realities of the patent process, the mistakes she made filing her own application, navigating expensive attorneys, investor negotiations, and what she learned about protecting intellectual property while building a business.We also discuss how GoGoVie is partnering with hospitals and maternal health organizations to improve postpartum support for moms.In this episode, you'll learn:What the patent process is really like for inventorsWhy protecting your intellectual property (IP) mattersFounder lessons on investors, partnerships, and knowing your valueHow postpartum support tools can improve breastfeeding, mobility, bonding, and maternal healthThe strategy behind landing hospital partnerships and B2B opportunitiesIf you're a founder, inventor, entrepreneur, or someone interested in maternal health innovation, this episode is packed with practical lessons and inspiration.Connect with Angelique: Website → gogovie.com Instagram→ @mygogovie📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#36: After testing 30 brands of human and synthetic hair, there was only one brand that tested negative for heavy metals.Only one. Dosso Beauty.Consumer Reports recently released a second braiding hair report.Not only were the brands tested human and synthetic hair. Some of them were labeled as “non-toxic.”At a time when so many women are looking for healthier beauty options, we trust that if a brand says they are non-toxic, they are really non-toxic.In light of the recent Consumer Reports, Dosso Beauty Founder Kadidja Dosso returns to the podcast to continue the conversation around non-toxic braiding hair.She breaks down the findings of the report, answers your most common questions and discuss the harsh realities of building a clean beauty brand as a Black woman founder.We also discuss:The surprising truth about human hair and why “non-toxic” labels can be misleadingHow braids can impact scalp health, eczema, scalp dermatitis, and psoriasisWhy healthier braiding hair products cost moreThe microaggressions and funding challenges Black women founders face in the beauty industryAfter this episode, you won't walk into a beauty supply store the same way again.Connect with Kadidja + Dosso Beauty: Instagram → @dossobeauty | @kadidja.dosso TikTok → @dossobeautyReference episodes:#15: Te Hidden Risks of Brands No One Talks About#31: Are Your Beauty Products Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxic Ingredients📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#35: Ownership is the real currency.When it’s yours they can’t take it away from you.In this week's Kickback Briefing episode, we’re breaking down BET’s new creator partnership with media entrepreneur JASON LEE, Fear of God’s surprising company reset and what The Doux's latest investment deal reveals about scaling a Black-owned business. This episode we discuss:The blueprint for content creator ownership and leveraging intellectual propertyThe importance of staying aligned with your vision and what it can cost you if you don’tHow going against industry norms can be a set up for successThe nuance of scaling, selling and building generational wealth as a Black business ownerWhether you're building a media empire, resetting a fashion brand, or scaling a beauty business, the through line is the same: the ones who protect what they built are the ones who last.Read→ May Issue of The Kickback With Keri Newsletter Sources Mentioned: Jason Lee in AfroTech, HipHop Wired, The Doux in AfroTech📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

As a business owner or someone who juggles multiple hats, if you’re not careful, you’ll run yourself into the ground. In this Hot Take, Kobi Co. owners Kobi Gregory and Tasha Harris share the self care practices that keep them grounded as well as lessons learned about boundaries when working with family.Listen to the full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#34: In this episode, Keri kicks back with Adrienne Randle, creator Evryday Black Magazine, shares why she ended her popular Black-owned shopping guide to launch an indie bi-monthly magazine that centers everyday Black people, not celebrities. Adrienne opens up about her lifelong dream of running a magazine, the unexpected pivot that began with a holiday shopping guide after pausing her product business and the real challenges of producing an independent magazine; from high printing costs and ongoing content planning months in advance.She also shares how she vets small Black-owned business submissions to weed out businesses that misrepresent themselves as Black-owned, and why she believes everyday Black stories deserve the spotlight just as much as celebrity brands.In this conversation, we talk about:Why small Black-owned businesses deserve just as much recognition as celebrity brandsThe challenge of getting Black men to participate and be featuredHow to shop Black-owned businesses intentionally all year round - not just during Black History Month or JuneteenthThe one word Adrienne hopes every reader feels when they flip through an issueConnect with Adrienne Randle: Website → evrydayblk.com | byadrienne.com Instagram → @evrydayblkmag | @addierawr Facebook → @evrydayblkmag📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#33: Nicole Murphy is a tech founder, speaker, and advocate for collaborative entrepreneurship. She is the Founder and CEO of Barter Black®, a membership-based bartering platform built for Black entrepreneurs to exchange products and services.In this episode, we break down how entrepreneurs can use bartering and community to start, grow and scale their businesses without relying solely on cash. She shares how she turned an idea born during the pandemic into a platform that helps Black entrepreneurs exchange products and services, save money, and build stronger businesses through collaboration.In this conversation, we talk about:How to use bartering as a business growth strategy when funding is limitedWhy community-driven entrepreneurship and collaboration are the keys to building sustainable Black-owned businessesLessons every Black tech founder needs to hear before launching their next app or tech startup ideaThe truth about tech accelerators, startup pitch competitions, and small business grants — and when they're actually worth your timeWhy cutting out the noise and focusing on business implementation over learning may be the best thing you can do for business growthConnect with Nicole Murphy: Website → barterblack.io Instagram → @barterblack.io TikTok → @iamnicolemurphy YouTube → @barterblack📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#32: In this episode we’re talking about the controversy surrounding Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Trick Daddy, Cardi B’s sold-out hair care launch, and Issa Rae’s latest move into TikTok micro-series. Each story teaches powerful lessons in branding and marketing.In this episode, we cover:Why the AKAs booking Trick Daddy was a failureThe importance of knowing your audience and brand alignmentWhy Cardi B’s hair care line sold out in an hour (and what most brands get wrong)How Issa Rae’s TikTok partnership signals a shift in how we consume contentHow to use storytelling to build your brand story.ResourcesYahoo EntertainmentThe GrioYahoo Entertainment/Fast Company📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

When it comes to your skincare, you could be doing more harm than good. In this hot take, licensed esthetician Cameron Cooper breaks down some of the most common skincare mistakes people make every day. From expensive eye creams to overly complicated routines, he reveals the myths that might actually be harming your skin instead of helping it. We discuss why sunscreen isn’t seasonal, why skincare marketing often leaves men out of the conversation, and why a simple routine may be better than a cabinet full of products.Listen to the full episode here📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#31: Did you know that 75% of beauty products marketed to Black women contain harmful chemicals?Clean Beauty for Black Girls founder Hannah McCall shares staggering truths about our favorite skincare, haircare and makeup products, how to switch to non-toxic beauty options without overhauling your entire routine and the legislation that could change the US beauty industry for the better.In this episode, you’ll learn:The two major toxic chemicals Black women should avoidThe difference between “organic,” “clean,” and “natural” labels and why none of them are regulatedA surprising truth about fragrances and parfums hiding in your productsThe best free apps to scan your products and find out what’s really in themWhy the Safer Beauty Bill is a game changer for Black women’s health and US beauty product regulationConnect with Hannah McCall Website → cleanbeautyforblackgirls.org Instagram → @cleanbeautyforblackgirlsResources:ClearyaRedify App (Google)Redify App (Apple)Environmental Working Group📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#30: If you’ve recently been laid off, or you’re thinking about leaving corporate, this episode will teach you how to turn your experience into a profitable consulting business.In this episode, marketing strategist and messaging expert Candice Jackson Long shares how she went from a devastating layoff to building a thriving consulting business, and how you can too.Whether you're starting from scratch or trying to attract better clients, this episode breaks down what it really takes to build a business rooted in your expertise.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to turn your corporate experience into a consulting business that generates incomeThe #1 mistake new consultants make when trying to market their servicesWhy defining the problem you solve is the key to attracting the right clientsHow to build a visibility strategy that converts (not just grows followers)What to focus on first if you're starting a business after a layoffConnect with Candice Jackson Long Website → candicejacksonlong.com LinkedIn → @candicejacksonlong📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#29: In this episode of The Kickback Briefing, Keri breaks down three major stories shaping business and culture right now; from the ongoing Target boycott to a beloved Black-owned fashion brand pausing production, and the controversial legacy of America’s Next Top Model. Along the way, she shares powerful lessons on brand trust, communication in business, and why staying true to your mission matters when building a brand.This week we discuss:What the Target boycott reveals about brand loyalty and public trustWhy “all press isn’t good press” in today’s business landscapeThe communication lessons small business owners can learn from Hanifa’s production pauseThe importance of giving grace when supporting small and Black-owned brandsWhat the America’s Next Top Model documentary teaches about legacy, virality, and staying true to your purposeResources:CNBC USA Today The Cut BET📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#28: Anna Cobb almost lost her life to a synthetic energy supplement. That experience made her to rethink what she was consuming and ultimately led to her creating the first okra sparkling water on the market.In this episode, Anna shares the story behind building O’kra, the wellness beverage brand that went from an idea to being on the shelves at 11 Erewhon luxury grocery stores in California and a nationwide launch in Sprouts in May 2026. We talk about navigating the beverage industry, pivoting until you find product-market fit, and why okra was the best choice to create a beverage brand.In this episode, you'll learn:Pivoting without quitting and the importance of isolation before launchingWhy okra has deeps roots in Black history and the benefits often overlookedWhat beverage founders can learn from brands like Poppi and OlipopHow a viral LinkedIn post helped generate early momentumThe strategy behind securing retail partnerships and scaling🚨 Special Offer: Receive $10 off your O’kra purchase: https://loox.io/z/pjgYoi6CfConnect with Anna Cobb: Website → drinkokra.com Instagram → @drinkokra | @theherbalhottie TikTok → @drinkokra📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#27: What do you do when you can’t find a Mother’s Day card for your friends?For Krystal Henry, founder of Around the Way Parchment, that simple frustration turned into a growing stationery brand built with intention, representation, and community at its core.Krystal shares how she went from blogging about motherhood to launching a greeting card company, winning nearly $45,000 in grants and pitch competitions, and creating space for Black women entrepreneurs in an industry that often overlooks them.We talk about funding, grief, community, manufacturing, and the truth about building a product-based business from the ground up.In this episode, you'll learnHow Around The Way Parchment fills a gap in the greeting card industryWhy grants and non-dilutive funding should be on every founder's radarThe role community, specifically Black women, plays in building a businessWhy all money ain’t good money and the importance of alignmentConnect with Krystal Henry: Website → aroundthewayparchment.com Instagram → @atwparchment TikTok → @atwparchment Facebook → @atwparchmentMentioned In This Episode:Boyd Cru WinesThe Well / She's Well Network: Early Entrepreneur Growth ProgramCommunity College of Baltimore County: Center for Business Innovation and Trade📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

There comes a point in many of our careers when pushing through no longer feels like strength; it feels like survival.Nutrition coach, pharmacist, and fitness instructor Melanie Smith shares what it looked like to navigate burnout, workplace microaggressions, and the quiet signs that something wasn’t right. We talk about the emotional toll of staying too long, the clarity that came through therapy, and how she ultimately prepared to walk away and build her business Moves with Melanie.Listen to the full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

Welcome to the first episode of The Kickback Briefing — a new format breaking down the latest wins, challenges, and stories shaping business and culture and the lessons we can learn from them. This week we discuss:The latest update in the Uncle Nearest $108M loan lawsuitWhether the brand could be forced into a saleNike’s MLK “Honor the King” sneaker controversyThe difference between brand intent vs. cultural impactNetflix signing podcast deals and competing with YouTubeWhat founders can learn from major platform pivotsArticles for Reference:Lexington Herald LeaderDistillery TrailThe Spirits BusinessYahoo SportsTimeTech CrunchBusiness Insider📧 Your curated dose of Black culture, brand spotlights & real inspiration. Subscribe to the newsletter → kerihenderson.com/newsletter🛍️ Shop With Intention. Shop Black-Owned. Products that actually fit into your everyday life → https://bit.ly/12-products-everyday-life📲 Stay in the loop:Instagram → @kerilhenderson | @thekickbackwithkeriYouTube → @kerilhendersonTikTok @thekickbackwithkeriShop Affiliates:Get 10% off Dosso Beauty → https://dossobeauty.com/KERIHENDERSONEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#26: Welcome to the first episode of The Kickback Briefing, a new format breaking down the latest wins, challenges, and stories shaping business and culture and the lessons we can learn from them.This week we discuss:The latest update in the Uncle Nearest $108M loan lawsuitWhether the brand could be forced into a saleNike’s MLK “Honor the King” sneaker controversyThe difference between brand intent vs. cultural impactNetflix signing podcast deals and competing with YouTubeWhat founders can learn from major platform pivotsArticles for Reference:Lexington Herald LeaderDistillery TrailThe Spirits BusinessYahoo SportsTimeTech CrunchBusiness Insider📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

What do you do when you feel like you’re being called to go in a different direction? Don’t ignore the whisper. In this hot take, former celebrity makeup artist Brittany Ingram shares the one piece of advice she leaned into when she felt that she was being called to leave her thriving Hollywood career behind for a life as a stay at home mom, military wife and a more purposeful lifestyle in Japan. Listen to the full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

What do you do when a massive opportunity shows up before your business is ready?In this Hot Take, the founders of Bell’s Reines share why they turned down a request to produce 3 million cookies after one free advertisement and how that decision protected their business. We talk about the reality of scaling too fast, understanding your true capacity, and why infrastructure before income can make or break a food product brand.You’ll hear practical advice for food entrepreneurs navigating growth, funding, and ownership, plus lessons on saying “not yet” without fear or guilt. This episode is a must-listen for founders building sustainable businesses on their own timeline.Listen to full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

Women don’t hold themselves back at work because they lack skill or experience; it’s because they are seeking permission to be themselves.Wardrobe stylist and image consultant Naana Badu shares the limiting beliefs women of color have when it comes to their style and reminds us that professionalism is not defined by your wardrobe; it’s defined by your expertise, authority, and presence.Listen to full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

The rules of investing have changed. In this hot take, Boyd Cru Wines co-founder Jon’ll Boyd breaks down how beginners can start investing with as little as $100 without being an accredited or angel investor.We talk about why investing feels intimidating, how everyday people can invest in small and Black-owned businesses, and the legacy we can build through ownership and access. If you’ve ever wanted to start investing but thought you needed millions, this conversation is for you.Listen to full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#25: This episode is a bittersweet one. After a year of filming three seasons together, Keri’s videographer and producer, Kyle, steps in front of the camera for the first time. They pull back the curtain on their entire podcasting journey; the lessons, the laughs, the late-night edits, the technical mishaps, and the major growth moments that shaped the podcast into what it is today.If you’ve ever thought about starting a podcast or wondered what it really takes behind the scenes, this episode is your blueprint. Together, Kyle and Keri reflect on what they’ve learned about collaboration, creativity, consistency, and taking that leap even when you don’t feel fully ready.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why perfection is overrated and the importance of taking the first stepPros and cons of hosting an interview-style podcastThe power of systems and templates to save time and protect your peaceHow to overcome imposter syndrome when you’re building something newBiggest lessons learned as both a host and videographer to make podcasting easier in the futureThis episode is full of gems, storytelling and behind-the-scenes moments about what it looks like to build something meaningful.Connect with Kyle: Instagram → @incrowd.network📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#24: In this solo episode, Keri reflects on the insights and transformative lessons she's learned from conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives and community leaders through the first three seasons. This episode is packed with actionable wisdom to help you build boldly, take up space, and bet on yourself.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#23: What does it really take to turn your passion into a profitable product line? Ryan Thompson, founder of Astro Blends, unpacks the lessons and sacrifices behind building his seasoning line from scratch while balancing a full-time job, family life, and entrepreneurship. Ryan shares what inspired him to move from private dining to launching his own product-based business, how he learned to price his products correctly, and what it truly means to grow a small brand in today’s competitive market. In this episode, you’ll learn: The process of creating a seasoning lineThe pros and cons of using 3rd party marketplaces to scaleWhy branding and packaging can make or break your businessThe importance of knowing your numbers (costs of goods, profit margins)When to pause and pivot to juggle life’s responsibilities and not burn outConnect with Ryan: Website → primoandcruex.com📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#22: When Ebonie Johnson Cooper noticed how few Black-led nonprofits were being funded, she decided to do something about it. As the founder and Executive Director of the Young, Black, and Giving Back Institute (YBGB), she’s leading a movement that’s empowering the next generation of Black philanthropists and closing the racial funding gap in the nonprofit sector.Whether you're a nonprofit leader seeking funding opportunities, someone passionate about giving back, or simply curious about how to make a meaningful impact in your community, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration that will transform how you think about philanthropy.In this episode, you’ll learn:How giving circles work and why pooling resources creates greater impactThe real reasons why Black-led organizations struggle to access fundingThe significance of August 28th in Black History and why the day is the largest in funding for Black-led nonprofitsHow Millennials and Gen Z are redefining givingPractical ways to give back regardless of income levelConnect with Ebonie: Website → youngblackgivingback.org | give828.org LinkedIn → @eboniejohnsoncooper IG → @ybgb_institute📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#21: What happens when you build a business around purpose instead of profit? In this inspiring episode, Keri kicks back with Brian Taylor, founder and CEO of Goldiata Creative, a Baltimore-based social impact marketing agency helping mission-driven brands amplify their message and measure their impact.Brian shares how he went from playing football to founding a 7-figure agency, and why he believes real success is measured by how much good you do, not just how much you earn.This episode dives into his journey, the lessons learned along the way, and how he’s helping organizations use marketing to create real community change.In this episode, you’ll takeaway:Why choosing purpose over profit can still lead to incredible financial growthHow to build a company culture that aligns with your mission and valuesThe biggest marketing mistakes small business make and how to fix themHow data and storytelling work together to create measurable social impactConnect with Brian: Website → goldiata.agency LinkedIn → @briantaylor0📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#20: How does a TikTok creator turn his passion for Black-owned brands into the #1 marketplace for Black-owned spirits?In this episode, Keri sits down with Charles Everett, the founder of urfriendcharles.com, to share how he built a thriving e-commerce platform, one bottle at a time.Charles opens up about how his idea started during the pandemic, what it takes to build partnerships in a highly regulated industry, and how he’s helping consumers discover and shop hundreds of Black-owned liquor, wine, and non-alcoholic brands.In this episode, you’ll learn:The challenges of launching an e-commerce platformThe unthinkable hurdles and costs small businesses face to launch their spirits productsWhy non-alcoholic beverages are becoming more popularHow to use A.I. to enhance shopper experiencesThe power of community and collaboration in brand growth.A portion of all proceeds from UrFriendCharles, including purchase will go directly to GOODProjects, a Washington, D.C nonprofit breaking the cycle of generational poverty by helping families and youth create self-sufficient lives.Connect With Charles Website → @urfriendcharles.com IG → @urfriendcharles TikTok → @urfriendcharles📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#19: In this episode, we’re diving deep into personal branding, career ownership, and the power of visibility with marketing strategist and LinkedIn expert Portia Obeng.From graduating during the recession to becoming a sought-after speaker and personal brand coach, Portia shares how she went from marketing products to helping people market themselves. We talk about why relying on job security is no longer enough, how to build a strong personal brand that opens doors, and the importance of being seen, especially for Black women navigating corporate spaces.You’ll learn:How to define your personal brand and communicate your valueThe biggest mistakes people make on LinkedIn (and how to fix them)How to show up online without feeling like you’re “bragging”Ways to build a professional network and get noticed for new opportunitiesWhy joy, community, and creativity are essential parts of career growthWhether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or building your own lane, this episode will inspire you to own your story, show up confidently, and take control of your career narrative.Connect with Porita: Website → portiaobeng.com LinkedIn → @portiaobeng📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#18: In this solo episode, Keri pulls back the curtain on how The Kickback with Keri came to life; from a spontaneous newsletter idea to a full platform amplifying founders, creatives, and change-makers who are building something bigger than themselves.What started as a passion project became a space for connection, culture, and community. Keri opens up about her pivot from a career in fashion styling to launching a media platform that celebrates Black-owned brands, spotlights purpose-driven entrepreneurs, and creates space for joy, representation, and progress.Tune in to hear:The real story behind The Kickback — and why community building matters now more than everHow Keri turned curiosity into a thriving brand in three yearsWhy amplifying Black voices and small businesses is a form of economic empowermentThe power of building platforms rooted in purpose, not pressureWhether you’re a founder, creative, or someone finding your next chapter, this episode will remind you that sometimes the best things are built by accident and sustained by community.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#17: After wrapping up an interview, the conversation kept flowing—and what unfolded was too real not to share. In this bonus episode, Keri opens up about:How she got started in fashion styling and why she chased that dream all the way to LAWhat it really felt like to walk away from a 10-year pursuit when passion fadedThe importance of community, and why it ultimately shaped her next chapterHow The Kickback came to be and where she sees it going in the futureThis is a story about pivots, letting go, and choosing purpose over titles. If you’ve ever felt like you were at a crossroads in your career or questioning what’s next, this episode will remind you that it’s okay to evolve and start fresh.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

The Kickback With Keri is back!We are intentionally spotlighting founders, creatives, and change-makers who are building something bigger than themselves and creating impact that lasts. In between guest episodes, you’ll catch reflective moments from behind the scenes, real-time lessons, and unfiltered takes on the journey of building and becoming.

What happens when you choose peace over the pressure to hustle?In this hot take with Jlani Jewels Founder Lani Nesbitt, we talk about her decision to leave New York City, the epicenter of grind culture and the fashion industry, for a slower, more intentional life in Miami.We dive into the mental health wake-up call, how quality of life became a non-negotiable, and the surprising ways this shift helped her business grow. If you've ever questioned the 9-to-5 grind or wondered what success could look like on your own terms, this one’s for you.Listen to full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

What does it really take to build a meaningful community, especially when you're competing with attention spans, and social media noise?In this hot take, I kickback with CoTripper founder Krystin Hargrove to talk about the challenges of building a community. From starting small to creating a safe space, we unpack why real connection takes time, intention, and ownership. You’ll learn what most people get wrong and why access to your community outside of social media is not optional.Listen to the full episode here.📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

When it comes to sales you don’t need a fancy script, someone else’s blueprint, or hours of YouTube University. In this week’s hot take, Renee Goings, current Director of Operations at Done Dissertation shares what truly works when it comes to converting potential clients.Renee reveals her number one sales strategy and her surprising goal on discovery calls. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or creative entrepreneur, this clip will help you rethink what it really means to "sell."Listen to full episode hereConnect with Renee Goings:Website → thedonedissertation.comInstagram → @donedisscoachLinkedIn → @donedissertationYouTube → @donedissertation📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

AI is here to stay, but are you using it the right way?Yvonne Pearson PinkDollhouse Marketing breaks down the top mistakes marketers are making right now and why unchecked AI tools can hurt your brand and your career.Listen to full episode hereConnect with Yvonne Pearson:Website → pinkdollhousemarketing.comInstagram → @yvonne_creativemarketerTikTok → @yvonne_creativemarketer📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

Hot take: You don’t need millions of followers to land brand deals.Yvonne Pearson of PinkDollhouse Marketing and host of Coffee With Yvonne podcast breaks down 4 proven steps to secure brand sponsorships for your podcast, newsletter, and social media—no matter your follower count.Listen to full episode: https://bit.ly/kickbackwithkeri-yvonnepearsonConnect with Yvonne Pearson:Website → pinkdollhousemarketing.comInstagram → @yvonne_creativemarketerTikTok → @yvonne_creativemarketer📧 Your curated dose of Black culture, brand spotlights & real inspiration. Subscribe to the newsletter → kerihenderson.com/newsletter🛍️ Shop With Intention. Shop Black-Owned. Products that actually fit into your everyday life → https://bit.ly/12-products-everyday-life📲 Stay in the loop:Instagram → @kerilhenderson | @thekickbackwithkeriYouTube → @kerilhendersonTikTok @thekickbackwithkeriShop Affiliates:Get 10% off Dosso Beauty → https://dossobeauty.com/KERIHENDERSONEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

Hot take: You don’t need millions of followers to land brand deals.Yvonne Pearson of PinkDollhouse Marketing and host of Coffee With Yvonne podcast breaks down 4 proven steps to secure brand sponsorships for your podcast, newsletter, and social media—no matter your follower count.Listen to full episode: https://bit.ly/kickbackwithkeri-yvonnepearsonConnect with Yvonne Pearson: Website → pinkdollhousemarketing.com Instagram → @yvonne_creativemarketer TikTok → @yvonne_creativemarketer📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

📧 Your curated dose of Black culture, brand spotlights & real inspiration. Join the newsletter → kerihenderson.com/newsletter📲 Stay in the loop:Instagram → @kerilhenderson | @thekickbackwithkeriYouTube → @kerilhendersonTikTok @thekickbackwithkeriShop Affiliates:Get 10% off Dosso Beauty → https://dossobeauty.com/KERIHENDERSON🖤 Enjoying the podcast? Leave a tip here.

#16: What does it take to create a luxury retreat that feels personal, intentional, and rooted in culture?In this on-location episode, Keri visits Wellspring Manor & Spa, a stunning Black-owned bed and breakfast in Prince George’s County, Maryland, for a powerful conversation with co-owner Lisa Brown Alexander. Tucked away on a once-abandoned estate, Wellspring is now a thriving hub for art, wellness, and celebration, welcoming guests to experience hospitality that feels like home and healing.Lisa shares how she and her husband transformed a once-abandoned estate into a vibrant boutique retreat where guests feel “seen, safe, and celebrated,” and reflects on the personal and business lessons they’ve learned along the way.In this episode, we cover:Why Prince George’s County, MD was the ideal home for a luxury Black-owned retreatHow they overcame early neighborhood resistance and built community trustThe art, food, and music events that make Wellspring Manor stand outWhat it means to run a hospitality business with intention during seasonal shiftConnect with Wellspring Manor & Spa: Website → wellspringmanor.com IG → @wellspringmanorandspa FB → @wellspringmanor📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#15: In this powerful episode, Keri kicks back with Kadidja Dosso, founder of Dosso Beauty, to unpack the hidden dangers of traditional braiding hair and how she created the first clinically tested, non-toxic alternative for protective styles.Kadidja shares her journey from personal frustration to product innovation, breaking down how she launched a hypoallergenic braiding hair brand that’s redefining beauty and wellness for Black women everywhere.Whether you're a beauty lover, entrepreneur, or just tired of the itch, this conversation is your reminder that the products we use should protect us, not harm us.In this episode:What’s really in most braiding hair (and why it causes irritation)The science behind Dosso Beauty’s clean, non-toxic solutionKadidja’s strategy for manufacturing, marketing, and retailHow storytelling, press, and purpose helped scale her product-based businessConnect with Kadidja + Dosso Beauty: Get 10% Off Your Purchase → dossobeauty.com/ Instagram → @dossobeauty | @kadidja.dosso TikTok → @dossobeauty📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#14: Oftentimes, businesses are born out of a personal need.In a world where convenience often trumps nutrition, one mother’s mission to find real, healthy baby food led to the creation of Chunky Vegan by founder Camille Hardy; a plant-based, farm-to-table baby food brand that’s redefining what we feed our little ones.In this powerful episode, Keri kicks back with Camille to explore how her frustration with shelf-stable baby food sparked a movement rooted in fresh ingredients, local farming, and purposeful nutrition..What you’ll take away:Best practice Camille used to secure farm partnershipsLearn how to read food labels and shop for organic produceWhy plant-based food isn’t always the healthiest alternative to meat based productsHow Chunky Vegan naturally discovered an untapped secondary marketThis episode is a masterclass in understanding what's really in our food and how to make truly healthy choices for ourselves and our families.Connect WIth Camile Hardy: Website → chunkyvegan.net IG → @chunkyvegan_babyfood📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#13: What if a candle could do more than smell good — what if it could heal, inspire, and build community?In this soulful and inspiring episode, Keri kicks back with the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Kobi Co., a Black-owned candle and self-care brand based in Minneapolis. Founders Kobi Gregory and Tasha Harris share how they launched their aromatherapy-focused business during the height of the pandemic — blending scent, sound, and soul to create products rooted in healing and purpose.We talk about turning a side hustle into a brick-and-mortar store, finding balance in a self-care business, navigating burnout, and using entrepreneurship as a vehicle for community care and giving back. Whether you’re building a brand or rebuilding your peace, this conversation will leave you inspired to move with intention.In this episode, you'll learn:How they overcame lack of retail experience to build a successful businessSelf care practices to avoid burnoutWhy its important to give back through scholarships and partnershipsHow to ignore outside noise and scale at your own paceConnect with Kobi Co: Website → lovekobico.com Instagram → @lovekobicoResources: The E-Myth Revisited Sistah Biz Global Network📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#12: Why firing the wrong clients helped this event CEO hit his highest revenue year.In this episode, Keri and Andrew unpack what happens when you set real boundaries, fire misaligned clients, and fully step into your value as a creative entrepreneur.Andrew Roby, an Army veteran turned renowned event planner, speaker, and coach based in Washington, DC. shares his journey from military service to building a premier event planning business. He opens up about the early struggles with cash flow, how he learned to redefine his ideal client, and why storytelling is the heart of every unforgettable event.Whether you're an aspiring event planner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, this episode is packed with powerful lessons on pricing your services, attracting the right clients, and building a sustainable business rooted in purpose and authenticity.What you’ll take away:Red flags that mean it’s time to fire a clientHow to protect your energy and enforce boundariesWhy Andrew changed his entire client base (and what it did for his income)The mindset shift from freelance to CEOConnect With Andrew Roby Website →andrewrobyevents.com IG → @andrewrobyevents FB @AndrewRobyEvents TikTok → @andrewrobyevents📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#11: You don’t have to be rich to have an estate plan.In this episode, Keri kicks back with Meredith Hill, founder and principal attorney of The Hill Law Group, located in the DMV, for a powerful conversation on estate planning, wills, and trusts — especially for those who think they don’t need them (yet). They break down the real differences between a will and a trust, debunk common estate planning myths, and explain why having a plan in place is essential for millennials, parents, homeowners, and even college students.Meredith also shares her inspiring leap from burnout at a federal government job to launching her own law firm, the emotional journey of entrepreneurship, and why estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for everyone.What you’ll take away:Why you need an estate plan no matter your age or marital statusHow to determine if a will or a trust is the best option based on your goalsWhy you should never use online legal templatesThe mental financial challenges of starting a law practiceConnect with Meredith and The Hill Law Group: Website → thehilllawgroup.com Instagram → @hilllawgroup Facebook → @MeredithHillLawGroup📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#10: How much of your skincare routine is actually working and how much is just hype?In this episode Keri kicks back with DMV-based esthetician Cameron Cooper of Skin by Cam to talk all things skincare. From SPF myths and product recommendations to the real truth about whether your eye cream is worth the money.Cameron also opens up about his journey as a Black male esthetician in a female-dominated industry, how he built a booked-out skincare business starting from home, and the marketing moves that helped him grow.Whether you're a skincare beginner, looking for affordable product recommendations, or just tired of following a 10-step routine that isn’t working, this episode breaks it all the way down.In this episode, you'll learn:The simple skincare routine you can follow for glowing skinWhy facial treatments aren’t just for women (men should get them too!)How to determine the right products based on the season and your skin typeWhat estheticians need to know to grow a skincare businessConnect with Cameron Cooper: Website → skinbycam.com Instagram → @skin.by.cam TikTok → @skinbycam YouTube → @skinbycam1358📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show

#9: How do you know when it’s time to leave your corporate job and take a leap of faith? Between the microagressions experienced as a Black woman in corporate America and growing passion for wellness and fitness, Melanie Smith knew she wanted something different. She had to ask herself, “is it time to bet on myself?”In this episode, Melanie, who is an integrative nutrition coach, pharmacist and fitness instructor, shares the microaggressions and burnout that led to her breaking point, what the transition to full-time entrepreneurship really looked like, and how she's helping other women heal their minds and bodies through holistic wellness.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job that drains you, this conversation will remind you that it’s okay to choose yourself.What you’ll take away:The emotional toll of staying too longHow to prepare mentally and financially for a career pivotPractical wellness tips that you can start applying todayHow integrative nutrition can support your physical and emotional healthConnect with Melanie Smith: Website → mymoveswithmelanie.com Instagram → @moveswithmelanie TikTok → @moveswithmelanie YouTube → @moveswithmelanie📲 Connect with me kerihenderson.com/links📧 Subscribe to The Kickback With Keri Newsletter kerihenderson.com/newsletterEnjoying the podcast? Support the show