The Value with Kevin Valley

What happens when one of the Caribbean’s top data minds builds a tech platform instead of a consultancy? You get a masterclass in turning information into influenceIn this episode of The Value, Kevin Valley talks with Raquel Seville, founder of Dataffluent, about the role of data infrastructure in shaping how the region scales AI, drives smarter business decisions, and builds valuation-ready companies.They unpack why AI needs local data, how dashboards drive smarter business decisions, and what it takes to move from service provider to tech builder.Topics include:Data strategies for fundraising and valuationUsing AI agents in business workflowsBuilding scalable tools in small marketsLearn more about Raquel at dataffluent.com

Join host Kevin Valley as he dives into the remarkable entrepreneurial journey of Jay Jackson, an award-winning entrepreneur and author. Jay shares his evolution from corporate life to owning a real estate company and establishing RYSE Creative Village, a nurturing hub for creators in music, film, and gaming. Discover his passion for community development and empowering artists, the importance of faith, curiosity, and mentorship, and his vision to bridge the gap between creators and major platforms like Netflix. Tune in for motivational insights, practical advice, and Jay's exciting plans for national expansion of RYSE Creative Village and their empowering efforts through crowdfunding. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 00:51 Welcome to the Podcast 01:06 Introducing Jay Jackson 02:26 Jay Jackson's Philosophy on Dreams and Passion 03:58 Jay Jackson's Early Career and Entrepreneurial Seed 04:27 The Turning Point: Delivery Job Experience 12:41 Venturing into Real Estate 17:42 Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis 20:36 From Real Estate to Salon Ownership 24:14 The Power of Curiosity and Execution 27:56 Leadership and Team Building 32:01 Cubicle to CEO: The Book 42:19 Rise Magazine and Community Impact 44:32 Launching on a National Scale 45:08 Relocating to Atlanta 46:27 Final Event in Orlando 52:04 Building RYSE Creative Village 59:28 Acquiring the School Property 01:06:22 Curating Creativity and Business Savvy 01:13:25 Funding and Crowdfunding Campaign 01:20:33 Long-term Vision and Challenges 01:26:24 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of The Value, Kevin Valley interviews Dareem Jeffrey, the entrepreneur behind EcoWash—a car wash business that uses just two litres of water per vehicle. Dareem discusses his journey from growing up in Trinidad to building a global business, overcoming significant challenges, and empowering youth through innovative business models. Listen in to learn about his unique approach to franchising, the importance of resilience, and the strategies that have driven EcoWash's expansion across multiple countries. Watch this episode on YouTube

Join us for an insightful episode of 'The Value' hosted by Kevin Valley, featuring Aldwyn Wayne, CEO and founder of WiPay Caribbean. Aldwyn shares WiPay's journey from its 2016 inception to its expansion across the Caribbean, West Africa, South America, and the U.S. Discover innovative solutions like Colour Bank and WeFets, and learn how WiPay navigated pandemic challenges and regulatory hurdles. Aldwyn emphasizes the importance of customer feedback, flexible product offerings, and viable execution in startups. Get valuable insights on the FinTech landscape, entrepreneurship, and investment opportunities in the Caribbean. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Discover Check and Payment Processing 00:59 Welcome to the Podcast 02:42 WiPay's Journey and Achievements 04:26 Expansion and Innovations 06:29 Impact of the Pandemic on Business 11:16 Challenges and Strategies in FinTech 21:15 Entering New Markets: Columbia and Ghana 41:58 Building Business Ecosystems 44:27 Acquisitions and Strategic Moves 44:56 Travel Company Acquisition 47:21 Microfinance Company Acquisition 48:53 Valuing Acquisitions 52:55 Understanding Market Needs 59:15 Grenada Bacchanal Explained 01:03:38 Future of Caribbean Fintech 01:13:47 Web3 and Digital Payments 01:16:11 Final Thoughts and Advice Links: WiPay website WiTravel Watch this episode on YouTube

In this episode, we are with Nicholas Rees; a digital payment specialist, chartered accountant, private equity investor, and two-time Olympian from the Bahamas. Nicholas discusses his PPP business model - People, Planet, Profit - and his multifaceted career journey from an Olympic swimmer to founding several businesses, including his successful digital payments platform, Kanoo. He elaborates on his family's storied history, educational background, and extensive entrepreneurial ventures, such as his innovative water company, Everfresh. Nicholas also provides insight into Kanoo's operations, its role in the Bahamian digital currency ecosystem, digital financial inclusion efforts, and strategic acquisitions, including the recent acquisition of Trinidad-based fintech, LUHU. He emphasizes the importance of technology investment in the Caribbean and shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.   Chapters: 02:50 Nicholas Rees' Early Life and Family Legacy 06:31 From Swimming to Business: The Transition 08:28 The Struggles and Triumphs of Starting a Business 10:48 The Water Business: A Social Impact Story 16:05 Educational Pursuits and Career Milestones 24:57 The Birth and Growth of Kanoo 29:21 Kanoo's Vision and Future Plans 31:13 Empowering Businesses with Digital Tools 34:05 The Sand Dollar: Bahamas' Digital Currency 36:57 Challenges and Innovations in Digital Payments 40:03 Financial Inclusion in Remote Areas 45:05 Kanoo's Strategic Acquisitions and Partnerships 57:18 Investment Opportunities in Caribbean Tech 01:01:37 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 01:03:53 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, Kevin Valley engages with Bill Huston, a leading expert in the field of investment crowdfunding and recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the top 19 global crowdfunding professionals. Together, they explore the various forms of crowdfunding—donation, rewards, and investment—and discuss their unique advantages, particularly for underserved communities. Bill sheds light on his journey from Cincinnati to becoming a prominent figure in the crowdfunding industry, emphasizing the significance of community, mentorship, and access to capital. The discussion also highlights the need for increased awareness and education about crowdfunding among government bodies and financiers. Bill outlines strategies to use crowdfunding as a demonstration of due diligence and the role of robust business plans. He acknowledges regional advancements, particularly in the Caribbean, and predicts a future with more opportunities for non-accredited investors through community-driven models. Throughout the episode, Bill underscores that while not everyone may become an entrepreneur, everyone has the potential to be an investor.   Key Takeaways: Investment crowdfunding goes beyond financial returns by contributing to community wealth-building. The 'crowdfit' strategy is effective in helping small businesses hit their initial funding targets by engaging closely with their primary and secondary networks. There is a big opportunity for crowdfunding in international markets, although regulatory challenges need to be addressed. Crowdfunding has the potential to democratize access to investment opportunities, making it crucial for economic growth and community development.   Resources Mentioned: Fund Black Founders Kickstarter Indiegogo WeFunder Raiseway Crowdfund Better 10K Project   Chapters: 02:41 Bill Huston's Early Life and Career07:50 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins14:14 Crowdfunding Ventures and Challenges21:15 The Power of Community Capital31:07 Rewards vs. Investment Crowdfunding39:22 The Power of Crowdfunding40:54 Understanding SAFE Agreements43:12 Challenges in Crowdfunding43:19 The Role of Raiseway44:31 Crowdfunding Statistics45:15 The Importance of Community Support46:03 Crowdfunding Education and Engagement51:19 Crowdfit Investment Strategy55:35 Ideal Products for Crowdfunding01:01:25 Crowdfunding in the Caribbean01:11:06 Future of Crowdfunding01:15:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Subscribe to The Value:Visit https://thevalue.show/subscribe to subscribe. You can also find us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode, we converse with Will Greenblatt, an acclaimed author and public speaking coach who has aided founders in raising over $350 million.   The discussion tackles the ever-present issue of stage fright and offers strategies to manage it effectively. Greenblatt shares his upbringing rooted in acting, his experiences as a child star, and overcoming various life challenges that shaped his approach to public speaking and entrepreneurship.   Emphasizing the importance of founder market fit and personal connection to business problems, Greenblatt provides insights into what investors look for, such as credibility and effective communication. He underscores the emotional aspects of pitching and stresses authenticity and passion in delivering compelling pitches.   The episode is filled with actionable advice on improving public speaking skills, building strong investor relationships, and mastering the art of compelling business pitches.   Chapters: 00:00 Overcoming Stage Fright 00:37 Introduction to the Podcast 01:00 Meet Will Greenblatt 02:06 Will's Acting Journey 02:57 Family Legacy and Early Acting Career 06:40 Challenges of Child Acting 14:58 Coping with Grief and Mental Health 30:30 Therapy and Personal Growth 37:17 The Fear of Public Speaking 38:19 Understanding Anxiety and Its Lies 39:58 Personal Experiences with Stage Fright 43:37 Overcoming Stage Fright: Practical Tips 55:18 The Five Acts Framework for Public Speaking 01:02:52 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Pitching 01:10:20 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   References Watch this interview on YouTube Transform Your Speaking Skills: Gain Confidence, Captivate Audiences and Advance Your Career by Will Greenblatt For more of Will LinkedIn: Will Greenblatt YouTube: Your Public Speaking Coach

This episode features educator and high-performance coach Dr. Shelly-Ann Gajadhar. Dr. Shelly is the founder and Mentor of a women’s mentorship online community of 200+ women called the Go Bravely Mentorship Community and the Author of a daily inspirational book for women entitled Go Bravely: Building Confidence Daily. Having shifted careers from law to business and academia, she blends academic principles with effective management and mindful leadership, delivering rapid results. In this episode, Dr. Shelly talks about her PhD journey and challenges as a black woman pursuing a PhD. in the UK. She imparts her insights on performance management, a crucial skill for entrepreneurs seeking to excel in their endeavours. Moreover, she also dropped a lot of tips on various topics spanning brand identity, task management, and product launches. Get ready to delve into a wealth of knowledge in this episode as we kickstart our journey toward high performance together. Highlights: 00:00 Unlocking Self-Leadership and High Performance 00:57 Podcast Introduction: High-Performing Entrepreneurs 02:32 Journey of Transformation: From Law to Leadership 04:48 Navigating Challenges as a Caribbean Academic in the UK 07:05 Activism and Advocacy: Championing Diversity in Academia 19:25 The Genesis of 'Go Bravely': Turning Mantra into Movement 23:20 Mentorship and Building a Community of Empowered Women 33:02 High Performance Coaching: Legacy, Vision, and Systems 39:04 The Power of Staying in Your Lane 39:45 The Impact of Focusing on Your Audience 40:22 Leveraging Influence Over Imitation 40:51 Redefining Success Through Discipline and Inspiration 41:26 Task Management vs. Time Management: A New Approach 45:16 Planning Your Week for Maximum Productivity 51:48 The Magic of Writing Things Down 56:02 Strategies for Successful Product Launches 01:04:39 From Message to Movement: Upcoming Leadership Bootcamp 01:04:51 Vision and Growth: The Future of Alphastute 01:09:38 Innovative Ideas and Personal Projects 01:12:17 Final Thoughts: The Dream Chose You   References: Episode Video Go Bravely - Londrelle, Shelly-Ann Gajadhar | Spotify Energy Focussed Weekly Planner Go Bravely Mentorship Community Go Bravely: Building Confidence Daily by Dr Shelly-Ann Gajadhar   For More of Dr. Shelly: Website: www.alphastute.com YouTube: Dr. Shelly-Ann Gajadhar

In this episode, we are with the Managing Director of The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB), Nicholas Higgs. Nicholas was also the Director and Chief Operating Officer for the Access Accelerator Small Business Development Center (SBDC), where he led the business development department. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with deep expertise in development finance, research, and capital raising.  Here we delve into investing and raising funds in the Bahamas. Nicholas discusses his journey as a managing director, sharing insights gained along the way. He also emphasizes the importance of networking, tenacity, and expanding one’s horizons. Join us as we look deeper into the Bahamian economy and explore its investment opportunities. Highlights: [02:08] Taking on the role of Managing Director at the age of 31 [05:27] The value of networking and controlling your narrative [12:36] Overcoming fears and getting out of the box [19:00] The power of tenacity [24:43] The art of valuation [29:23]  Nicholas’ insights on raising funds and securing deals [36:07]  The Bahamian economy during the COVID-19 Pandemic [40:43]  The Bahamas Development Bank and its rebranding [43:05]  The Sleeping Giant: Bahamas’ Potential and Opportunities [48:11]  Investing and raising capital in the Bahamas [51:38] Crowdfunding in the Caribbean [53:45] The BDB’s vision and goals [59:22] BDB’s fund allocation [01:00:39] How do you present your business for financing [01:05:19] Common misconceptions about investing in the Caribbean [01:10:57] Nicholas’ upcoming podcast: Mastering Finance   Resources Episode Video Mastering Finance: The Podcast

In this technologically advanced world, everything is getting digitalized. For any business to keep up, it has to learn how to efficiently incorporate technology into its processes.    In this episode, digital marketing and e-commerce specialist Keron Rose sits with us as we delve into the world of digital marketing and e-commerce. Keron is also a writer and a podcast host, and his platforms aim to educate Caribbean entrepreneurs about the technology they need to start a business.   Here, Keron discusses the different digital payment platforms available in the Caribbean and the value proposition they offer. He emphasizes the importance of considering the pros and cons of the various digital payment facilitators and choosing the most suitable for your business.   Highlights: Keron’s journey to digital marketing and e-commerce Exploring the different payment platforms and knowing what suits you Digital tools and strategies to enhance your online presence Utilizing digital tools to build your brand: success stories Challenges in adopting digital payment solutions Understanding how various digital payments work Looking into the value proposition of different payment facilitators Republic Bank’s Endcash digital wallet Weighing payment solutions and consumer behaviour Digital payments: A look into the future The importance of legal conversations on fintech   Resources: Episode Video Digipreneur FM Keron Rose Website

In this episode, we are with Cherie Williams, a Jamaican entrepreneur living in the United States, who has identified a billion-dollar market opportunity in the Caribbean car rental industry through her startup, Veekle. Williams shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the US while balancing being a mother of four. She discusses the challenges and milestones of launching Veekle, a peer-to-peer car rental platform aimed at revolutionizing car rentals in the Caribbean and potentially other developing regions. Williams emphasizes the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and a supportive community in entrepreneurship. The discussion also covers the significance of MVPs (Minimum Viable Products), the power of pitch competitions, and strategies for overcoming setbacks. Williams' story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in turning innovative ideas into successful businesses.   Highlights: 01:59 Guest Spotlight: From Jamaica to a Billion-Dollar Vision 03:48 Cherie Williams' Journey: Education, Entrepreneurship, and Empowerment 08:03 The Birth of Veekle: Revolutionizing Car Rentals in the Caribbean 12:25 Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities Amidst the Pandemic 32:41 Pitching Veekle: Strategy, Storytelling, and Scaling Up 37:01 Future Plans and Expansion: Building a Caribbean-wide Network 39:19 Diving Deep into Financial Modeling and Target Markets 40:05 Tourism Trends and Business Viability 40:53 The Art of Pitching and Seeking Investment 44:54 Expanding Horizons: Beyond the Caribbean 47:03 Navigating the Challenges of a Startup 01:03:13 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Resilience and Learning 01:11:39 Closing Thoughts: Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs   Contact Cherie Williams: LinkedIn: Cherie Williams, CPA, MBA Instagram: @iamcheriewilliams   Find out more about Veekle: LInkedIn: Veekle™ Facebook: facebook.com/justveekle Instagram: @justveekle Twitter: @justveekle

In this episode, we are with the well-known Caribbean media professional and personality Samantha Best. Samantha is widely known as a former prime-time news anchor at CCN TV6, but more than that, she is an accomplished author, content consultant, and insurance agent. It was her ability to connect with the audience and her personal touch that made her one of the most popular media personalities on television and radio. In 2023, she made a career shift as she became a member of the Guardian Group as an insurance agent, making a positive impact on people's lives.   Samantha enjoys empowering people to work smart and make more which is what this episode is about. She shares her journey from her humble beginnings in the media industry to transitioning in different career paths. Moreover, she emphasizes the benefits of insurance and the importance of time management in achieving success.   Key Takeaways: Samantha's life before entering the media industry Finding her path in media and handling the pressures of being a beginner How can you improve your craft You must have different layers and be in different places to build your brand. Learn from your mistakes. Dealing with burnout and negative comments Samantha's journey on rebranding and getting back to her passion Being a woman in media and Samantha's advice to those aiming to get into the media industry Samantha's unique approach to insurance and financial freedom Build a system of content creation that fits your routine. It can be different for everybody. How to manage your time and get organized.   Resources: Episode Video The Balance Block Method: A Guide to Improved Time Management and Productivity by Samantha Best Transform Your Life With Samantha's Balanced Success Checklist    Watch this video on YouTube here   Contact Samantha Best Website: samanthabest.life

In this insightful episode, we are with Ocey Phillips, an expert on digital transformation, focused on assisting companies in keeping up with customer needs in a technologically advanced world. He helps companies grow revenue by matching their perceived value with the problems consumers are looking for solutions to. As an experienced digital consultant with over ten years of successes and failures in the digital, technology, ICT, and telecoms sectors, he is adept at handling various projects and challenges.   As Ocey sits down with us in this episode, we take a deep dive into the Caribbean financial services sector and talk about reinventing the process to adapt to the technologically advanced world. He also shares his insights on managing and adding value to businesses.   Key Takeaways: Defining Digital Darwinism People management through framework and autonomy What inspired Ocey to reinvent himself? Introducing Inifye: A brief overview Key challenges in the Caribbean financial services sector The benefits of reinventing the process and going digital Total customer experience: What determines a value of a company Constantly be proactive with your market research Upscaling your business with a marketplace business model Go into business thoroughly, and understand every aspect. Staying ahead with prompt engineering Business vs. Hobby: What makes a business It is essential to have an understanding of the various business models. Going back to the core business principles Finding value in the Caribbean Fintech sector Challenges in funding within the Caribbean region   Resources: Episode Video Disrupt You: Master Personal Transformation, Seize Opportunity, and Thrive in the Era of Endless Innovation by Jay Samit   Watch this interview on YouTube here

In this episode of The Value podcast, host Kevin Valley is with Jynynn Edwards and Keron Rose of “The Digital World” radio programme on 106.5FM for an insightful interview about his work as a Chartered Business Valuator and podcaster. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to business valuation and entrepreneurship, including: Kevin's professional background in business valuation  Understanding what a Chartered Business Valuator does  Basic steps to building an investible business  Why do small businesses fail to access capital from banks & available alternatives  How to value intellectual property and brands Knowing when to choose a business canvas over a business plan  The story behind the Caribbean Power Lunch Podcast and subsequent transition to The Value Show Views on podcasting as a medium in 2023  Throughout the episode, Kevin shares his expertise on these topics and provides practical advice for entrepreneurs and business owners. He also discusses his mission to educate business owners at scale while working with investors to source profitable opportunities. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the world of business valuation and entrepreneurship and is a must-listen for anyone interested in building a highly valuable and investible business.   Resources: Unlocking Investment Potential: How Chartered Business Valuators Drive Business Success

Kevin Valley visits his high school alma mater to address the current cohort on the topic “What I Have Learnt”. This series was designed to engage young men in conversations with past students on key lessons they have learnt after leaving the school. The speeches take on a well-rounded perspective on life not limited simply to everyday career advice. In this speech, Kevin leaves the students with three potent lessons: Daydreams are powerful; It’s not about you; your purpose is to serve Resilience wins the long game. Smartly intertwined with stories about his own failures, determination, and success, he drives home the key lesson of listening to your inner voice because it knows you best. Feeling a bit uncertain in your journey? Press play for some inspiration.   Resources: From Daydreams to Purpose: How Environment and Resilience Drive Performance

In this episode, Jarrod Best-Mitchell, a sales consultant with almost two decades of experience, shares his insights on the art of sales. He has worked at several top local and international corporations and has trained hundreds of sales professionals in current sales techniques to improve their performance and achieve their goals. His company, Help Me Sell, offers sales team coaching, sales process auditing, and helps C-level executives optimize their LinkedIn profiles. Jarrod firmly believes that "nothing happens until a sale is made" and has a track record that speaks for itself, having generated over 2 million organic views of his content in the last 22 months. He delves into topics such as the importance of mindset in sales, debunking the myth of the sales personality, the real key to learning how to sell, using content to answer customer questions and reach more people, and the importance of using video content to build trust and authority with strangers. He also touches on how to identify your ideal client and close the sale, understanding your value, and pricing appropriately, as well as the importance of data and insights to solving business problems. This episode is a must-listen for business owners, sales professionals, and service providers, as it is filled with powerful insights that can help improve your sales performance and achieve your goals. With Jarrod's impressive track record, you can be sure that the advice he shares is practical and actionable.   Resources: Episode Video Sales Success: Why Personality Is Overrated and Process Is Key Maximizing Your Sales Strategy: Targeting Prospects and Solving Customers' Problems with Data-Driven Insights

The Indomitable Tishauna Mullings takes the interview mic on this episode of The Value.   Self-described as a Jamaican “pracademic” who loves to question orthodoxy, Tishauna loves and believes in academia to the extent it can help create real solutions for people’s lives. She is a social entrepreneur who believes the world is full of too many issues for folks to go into business ONLY for profit.   With a resume as long as it is inspiring, Tishauna wears several hats as a youth leader, community builder, and social development practitioner. Her work centres around building community wealth through rural regeneration. She is the founder of the Little Genius programme and NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services, a social enterprise focused on empowering young people by equipping them with practical skills for employment.   Additionally, Tishauna is a Caribbean 30 under 30 Award recipient, Chevening Scholar, the winner of the 2013/2014 Farm Queen competition, Recipient of the Governor-General’s Award for St. Thomas in 2015, and a delegate for President Barack Obama’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative.   This episode is an inspiring and informative conversation on: How to tap into your potential to make change in the space you live in Tishauna’s testimony of how life coaching impacted her life and how she has used her experience to empower others A brief introduction to her Ready-Set-Go Coaching Model and How it works The Little Genius programme and NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services and their respective social impacts Understanding the value of social enterprises How entrepreneurs can use the cross-subsidization model to meet profit goals while investing in social enterprises Differentiating between Corporate Social Responsibility and Social Entrepreneurship How profit-led businesses can better serve social causes Tune in to this episode as we learn how to build community wealth with Tishauna Mullings.   Resources: Episode Video Article: Building Community Wealth Through Social Entrepreneurship

Operating at the intersection of technology and business analytics, Jason Valley has spent over 2 decades using technology to add value to businesses.  His exemplary career spans the finance, oil & gas, and telecommunications sectors where his projects improved turnaround time on business processes. His unwavering commitment to efficiency and excellence earned him the honour of ‘Employee of the Year’ in 1998 and 2010 while his team was recognized as Best-in-Class globally for process optimization. Following these successes, he ventured into the rewarding world of entrepreneurship seeking to help small to medium-sized businesses optimize their operations. This interview is jampacked with stories, lessons, and advice on: Opening doors for emerging talent using tech The Importance of Passion and Profits in deciding whether to pivot or scale The difference between being "One in a million" vs "One of a million" and what that means for your value The importance of market research and testing seemingly good ideas to identify the right business opportunity Using free trials to sell your Value proposition The importance of a database of leads to build brand awareness and facilitate new business development How to generate client trust with technology How Caribbean service providers can use tech to maximize time and money. Resources: From Accountant to Tech Trailblazer

Steven Jasmin recognized Guyana’s investment potential back when he first arrived in June 2017. The stark similarities between Guyana and Louisiana; the off-shore centre for oil & gas production in the US; made him a believer in Guyana‘s investibility.   5 years after settling in, Steven and his team have a clear understanding of the Guyanese people as well as the opportunities that lie ahead for the "land of many waters". What he brings to the table and offers to multi-generational blue-collar business owners hoping to have a piece of the oil & gas pie, is his ability to speak the language of Fortune 500 companies.    He bridges the gap between local businesses seeking to work with large energy conglomerates by overseeing investments and handling key operational tasks required for big business collaborations.    This episode explores the realities of Guyana’s investibility including Key challenges faced by foreign and local investors; Opportunities for wealth building, investment and economic growth; Capital solutions for investment; Guyana’s diversification options; and The impact of technology on sector development.   Tap in to hear more on Guyana’s investment climate and how Steven and his team are working to create greater opportunities for Investment.    Resources: Article: Investing in Guyana Episode Video

Jay Harris makes an appearance on the podcast to discuss the exciting world of Web 3.  Web 3 or Web 3.0 is referred to as the next generation of the internet’s technical, legal and payment infrastructure. Its focus is on ownership and incorporates technologies and concepts such as decentralization, token-based economies and blockchain.  Our conversation sheds light on some important themes in Web 3 and instructs listeners on the key differences between these digital platforms & technologies.    We discuss: Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, Ethereum, NFTs and the Metaverse (what they are and how they are used)  The first step in building a crypto wallet Mitigating risk in an unregulated market How businesses can capitalize on these digital platforms   Jay Harris is the Founder of the W3 Podcasts (Digital Leaders, Web 3 Leaders & World Tech Forum); audio shows aimed at educating and encouraging Web 3 communities.  The tech expert is an engaging speaker who effortlessly connects with the needs of his audience, inspiring performance, collaboration and change. In fact, many of Jay’s listeners credit him with providing the motivation they needed to launch their Web 3 projects.  In the corporate world, he is known as a creative thinker and provider of robust tech solutions for complex business problems.  Plug into this episode to learn more about the next generation of digital platforms.   Resources Episode Video: https://thevalue.show/video/web3-explained-jay-harris Web3 for Business

Every year, I see top talent leaving the country to go live and work somewhere else. And every year it stings - the loss of opportunity. If you are in a developing country, you've most likely felt this as well, and if you are in a developed country you've probably benefitted from this - the Brain Drain. Here are my thoughts on how to fix this. Click here to join the conversation on LinkedIn.

Kimberly Ofori is a digital entrepreneur and growth step strategist who transformed lessons learnt from her eye-opening entrepreneurial journey into a personal leadership brand.  She serves as the Managing Director at Ofori & Co. - A Strategy Innovation Agency where she helps scale-ups and corporations to innovate their business models and overall strategic positioning in their respective markets. Thanks to her rather unconventional corporate and entrepreneurial career; from climbing the career ladder starting at a very young age to working and living in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe where she founded and sold two companies - she has amassed a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience on what it takes to choose to be in the lead of your own life, in your career and on leading others. This is why she has been coaching leaders and leadership teams on personal leadership using The Lead method, a personal leadership methodology developed by Kimberly herself. Kimberly deep dives into critical business lessons learnt from various ventures and provides brilliant insight into reasons companies fail, selecting the right business model, value chain positioning, and the importance of innovation to remaining resilient.  Kimberly also shared a Five-Factor Model for scaling your business.   Watch this interview on YouTube here   Resources Episode Video Should I Sell My Business?

Have you ever taken the time to develop a business plan, and pitch your idea to investors? Raise a virtual hand. Awesome, were you able to win the investment? Have you ever developed a business idea that needed funding to get off the ground, but never got around to meeting with potential investors? Maybe you were unsure of how to present it, maybe you were afraid, or maybe you just didn’t know where to find investors to fund your idea. Ok, let’s cast a bigger net – have you ever wanted to become an entrepreneur but hit a mental wall when you think “How on earth am I going to get the money to do this?” If none of this applies to you, I appreciate you for clicking through anyway 😊. If you did raise a virtual hand, I am one of you - here's my story.   Articles for reference: Failing to Raise Money Can be the Greatest Thing That Ever Happened How To De-Risk Your Startup For Investors

Milène Paul is a business strategy coach and author of “Now It’s Time to Live My Best Life”,  Her mantra “If they don’t get it, you won’t get it”, pointedly reminds business owners that if you aren’t clear on your value, prospective customers won’t buy into your service. It’s about making sure that your audience gets the message so you can get the business.   We discuss three types of value; absolute, relative and added; and Milène offers 5 steps you should use to effectively pitch your value with more confidence. Rooted in her 10+ years of experience in project management, grants compliance and international development strategy for SMEs in the Caribbean, she has met hundreds of business owners and entrepreneurs. It is where she learned a valuable truth in business: “If they don’t get it, you won’t get it”. Valuable projects have failed to receive financial support because of a lack of clarity and confidence. Convinced that she could do something about it, Milène decided to turn her experience into profitable expertise to fill this void. Now, as a business strategist for female entrepreneurs in the coaching and consultancy industry, she helps her clients pitch, profit and impact with more confidence.   Resources: Episode Video Article: The Best Way to Communicate Your Value Milène Paul YouTube Channel

I am proud to announce the rebranding of the Caribbean Power Lunch podcast to The Value and what to expect in future episodes!   This episode covers: The origin of the Caribbean Power Lunch podcast My decision to dive fully into entrepreneurship Become Investible, the brand What Value means to me The legacy I want to build An introduction of my framework for a valued business

Michael K. Jackson is a global keynote speaker, resilience expert and author. Having overcome significant challenges in his own personal and professional life, Michael walks us through what it takes to Build Back Stronger. This episode is a much-needed lesson on resilience, adversity, and hope as well as uncovering Michael’s P-L-A-N framework: a method for dealing with problems, difficulties, and conflicts on the journey to success.

In his time, Platinum Album selling and Grammy Award-Winning musician, Peter Tosh was well-known for his advocacy for equal rights and the legalization of cannabis. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1987 but his legacy lives on.  “You can talk about things till you're blue in the face, but sometimes you just got to go through it,” says Niambe McIntosh, the youngest daughter of the legend on this episode of Caribbean Power Lunch.  In our discussion, Niambe shares the tumultuous learning curve, challenges, victories, and growth she experienced as the administrator of her father’s brand and legacy.   As a formidable businesswoman and visionary, Niambe serves as - The head of the Peter Tosh Legacy and Brand; - Managing Member of Tosh Holdings LLC (IP); - Board Chairperson for the Peter Tosh Foundation Ltd.; and - The President of PT Capital LLC (Cannabis).   Listen in as she shares the thought-provoking realities of:  - Crafting the direction of a legacy brand,- Understanding the importance of dedicating time and resources to “fixing the past” to create a sustainable future, and - Why she needed to fire her entire team and the journey of building a new strategic team through networking. A video of this interview is available here.

When it comes to raising capital for your venture, the first thing you need to know is that it is NOT all about your pitch.  Preparing to speak to investors is about a lot more than a polished pitch deck. Business owners should also understand how to outline what makes their companies Investible, including how to identify who your customers are, what they need, and how are you are solving their problems. In this episode, Zahra Alleyne walks through the process of developing an Investible business model and what to consider when preparing to present to potential investors.

Founding team Brian and Ingrid Jahra discuss the evolution of CinemaONE, the Caribbean’s first IMAX experience, the pioneering step of becoming the first SME IPO in T&T, and the challenges of building a sustainable, wealth-generating business, while also focusing on future growth and possibilities. In this conversation, we unpacked: Importance of IPOs for SMEs How to get to the IPO? What Is the Process? What the Business Valuation process entails Marketing the IPO Evolution of CinemaOne Growth of the Brand/Success Story How to Develop the Customer Experience For further insights, check out https://kevinvalue.com/are-you-ready-to-take-your-company-public

At one point or another, we’ve all experienced the great inconvenience of car troubles. From car accidents to a blown tire or stalled battery - each one of these scenarios can seriously change the course of your day...right? So how do you turn this everyday occurrence into a multimillion-dollar business? In this “Become Investible” feature, we take a closer look at Total Convenience Management Ltd… from a startup leasing and rental company to the group of companies it manages to date. Every business has the potential to “become investible” - TCM grew its company by understanding the demand for its services and continuing to push the envelope in satisfying its customers. TCM is only one of many stories found right here in the Caribbean.

Can your business survive without you? Did you know that 85% of failed business transitions occur because of poor communication, mistrust, and lack of planning?   Rochelle Clarke is a business advisor who specializes in keeping businesses in business with business continuity planning and transition preparation. Through her company, she ensures that retiring leaders, their incoming successors, and the businesses that support them are ready to move successfully to the next stage of their business’ lifecycle whether by succession or sale.   If the words: "Planning for the Unplanned'' ring clearly when she speaks, then "Be ready" echoes her sentiment.   Transitions may need to occur on any occasion and businesses must be adequately prepared for the change.    The Founder of Succession Strength, and the platform Continuity Strength, International keynote speaker, lecturer, and graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, Rochelle is also the author of "The 5 Critical Succession Conversations: A Comprehensive Guide for the Family Business".   In this episode, we discuss: Business Continuity Planning, Business Transition, Succession Planning and Preparation, The difference between the entrepreneur and the family business owner, and  6 tips for working with family and friends. Succession Strength - Keeping businesses in business for generations.

Conferences, Cannabis, and Mushrooms.These seem disconnected, right?Well, actually, there’s one common factor… “Five or six years down the line, if I do nothing… have I really been a good Caribbean citizen?” – Douglas K. Gordon. Douglas is the founder of CanEx Jamaica Business Conference and Expo, an annual business event that connects top cannabis industry experts, and CEO of Silo Wellness, an alternative, and holistic health company focused on functional mushroom and psychedelic opportunities.In this episode, Kevin Valley speaks with Douglas K. Gordon about the business of natural medicine business while addressing misconceptions and misinformation about cannabis and functional mushrooms.   Controversial? Perhaps. Informative? Yes! This conversation uncovers: Strategies used to create, manoeuvre challenges and expand a premier Caribbean event. The story behind the legacy collaboration with the Marley brand. The mind, body, and soul… Rest, resetting, and restoration through nature.

"Pain will find you, but you determine the length of its visit" - Jay Blessed. Jay Blessed is an award-winning content creator and host of the In My Head Podcast which focuses on mental health. In this timely episode, Kevin Valley and Jay Blessed have an open and frank discussion around: Silent suffering, especially among men, Dealing with pain, and The 12-step healing process.

When everyone you know is having the same problem, the solution might be a successful business.  Kadion Preston, Co-Founder, and CEO of CaribShopper saw an opportunity to solve a common problem among Caribbean merchants and consumers by providing an easier way to buy goods from the United States. When the original business model ran into challenges, the founders pivoted to solve another problem for their customers, now giving Caribbean merchants the opportunity to sell to overseas consumers. This shift, and the drive to find the investment capital to support it, came just before 2020, forcing even further innovation and evolution. Kadion's journey is an example of the importance of embracing the opportunities presented, overcoming tragedy, and understanding that failure is a big part of the formula for success.

Unless a valuation can withstand intense scrutiny - it is just a number.Defensibility is everything.‍Whether you are seeking to raise capital, negotiate investment terms, or sell your business - a defensible valuation is your starting point.   In this episode, I discuss how a valuation engagement is conducted and what determines the value of your business.   Learn more at https://kevinvalue.com

For many entrepreneurs hoping to grow or scale their businesses, successfully sourcing investment capital is a major pain point. What investors are looking for can be a mystery. This episode features a panel discussion with expert investors and finance professionals who give insight into why businesses succeed or fail to attract investment and outline what business owners can do to become more Investible. Panellists include: Chris Williams of PROVEN Investments, Beresford Grey of SYGNUS Capital, Karrian Hepburn-Malcolm of The Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation (UTC), Kriss Marcus of Aspire Fund Management Company Limited, and Vashtie Dookiesingh of The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

In this episode, we discuss how to increase the investibility of your business, create your own wealth engine, and how to protect, extract, diversify, and smoothly transfer that wealth to the next generation. This episode features Zahra Alleyne from Become Investible and Tennille Whiskey from the Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation. Topics covered include: Building an Investible Business Risk Management Wealth Extraction Diversification of Income Streams Wealth Transfer

Can we become investible? I recently sat down with Dike Rostant at TTT News station to discuss the professional services I offer; from business valuations to working with businesses to attract investment. I also offered my perspectives on what is needed to foster a favourable environment for business, how to fortify our private sector, and what drives me to do all that I do.   Resources: TTT News Special - Becoming Investible with Kevin Valley

It is not always about doing things better, but sometimes we simply need to do better things.   This belief is near and dear to the heart of Sian Cuffy-Young, a social entrepreneur who is driven by the need for environmental change and waste management education.   In this episode, we discuss: Sian's journey and reason for becoming an environmental entrepreneur, Reframing her mindset from student and employee to business owner, Social Entrepreneurship: Environment and Business Case, How to get started without funding, An introduction to landfilling, and What's next for Siel Environmental.   Sian recently launched her book "Ky's Magical Adventures" to teach children about waste management and awaken the Eco-Hero within them.

Let's talk about Serial Entrepreneurship. From music to catering to tech to events, Osei Wright-Alexis has brought his business start-up formula to bear on numerous ventures over the last 15 years. Hear him explain how he knows which idea is going to be next, and when it's time to move on.  Once the challenge is gone, serial entrepreneurs are always looking for the next business spark to develop. Bringing an idea to fruition is exciting, but making sure a business is ready before you move takes focus, patience, a thorough understanding of the market, and then sometimes tedious formulation of the systems and processes that underlie successful operation.  Osei walks us through his successes, failures, and lessons, and drops some serious wisdom for those of you who have too many ideas and don't know where to start.

Mind. Your. Business. When breaking out on your own, there is no such thing as being over-prepared.  If you want to start a business and you think you are either too young or too inexperienced, this conversation with Kyle Maloney will show you that none of that matters as much as knowing your business better than anyone else.  His research-based borderline obsessive approach impressed investors who may have been sceptical of investing in a few 20-somethings and underpinned his ability to learn from mistakes to grow a series of better, stronger, successful businesses. In this vault episode of Caribbean Power Lunch featuring Kyle Maloney, we discussed how ChefMade works, the value of being over-prepared, the Tech Beach Retreat conference series, the future landscape of tech in the Caribbean, the plight of F1RST, and harnessing the power of fear.

Leading an active lifestyle from a young age, fighting early-onset diabetes, becoming an academic scholar – Kerrie-Kim Kirton left his secure corporate job in December 2015, to turn his passion for lifestyle fitness into the business known today as All In Fitness.   In this episode, we discussed: Why Kerrie is called the ‘fittest diabetic’  Kerrie’s 9-month search for employment after successfully completing 2 degrees in Economics  Leaving the ‘safety-net’ of the corporate world to pursue your passion  Building customer loyalty & repeat clientele  The philosophy behind the All In Fitness brand Practical advice for those who believe they are “too busy” to exercise. Yes, YOU. An update on what Kerrie is up to now, and Top Tip for entrepreneurs.

What does the word “recession” bring to mind? For many, it evokes saving, shrinking, and worrying about job loss and rising debt. After listening to this conversation with finance professional Maria Daniel and business owner Gerard Edwards, though, you will have a different understanding of the possibilities that a financial downturn can bring for business growth and transformation. In accepting that life in the “new normal” will not be the same, business owners can be empowered to adapt intelligently, making decisions that create opportunities instead of obstacles. You will learn strategies to reach new customers, how to identify your customers’ problems, and how to understand your numbers in a way that puts you in control of your business’ future.

This is a long one, but worth every minute. Terri-Karelle graciously sat with us for over three hours and shared her wisdom and experience on turning failures into opportunities, the importance of being genuine, and how to find power in being your authentic self. From immersing herself in an academic program taught in a language she did not speak in order to pursue her dream, to overcoming the opinions and criticisms of others by standing in her own confidence, Terri's path has at times been far from what was expected, but it has definitely been inspiring.  Terri's zeal for life, her faith in her purpose and gifts, and her comfort with being uncomfortable have all contributed to the success she has achieved so far, and with her approach, the sky is truly the limit. Get your notebook ready, because the gems are truly overflowing from this one!

“Until Everywhere is Free” is a statement that encapsulates the hope of Muhammad Muwakil, a Trinidadian poet, musician and in some ways, a modern-day renaissance man, Who, with the help of many others, is creating a new sound for calypso music. In today’s episode, Muhammad tells us his story about how he is paving his way in the world on his own terms, along the path of his entrepreneurial journey and self-discovery.   Resources: Watch this interview on Youtube

As business owners during these trying times, we are constantly being advised to ‘go digital’ in order to be sustainable and agile. However, putting that into action does not look the same for everyone. Should we start with a website or build an Instagram following? How much does it cost? In this our first Become Investible RoundTable discussion, we discuss how to utilize different digital tools to manage, market, and grow a business, and analyze and leverage data to make the most of digital investments. Both Shelly-Ann Gajadhar and Keron Rose have built and grown their own businesses using different digital strategies. Tune in to learn from their experiences and get the information needed to build out an effective digital strategy for any business.   Resources: Watch this interview on YouTube

We all have a story to tell and a lot to learn from one another. Technology makes conversations and linkages possible more easily, as long as we are willing to listen. In this Season 5 finale, we talk to filmmaker, storyteller and digital media specialist Adrena Ifill, about how to share your story, learn from your history and find your own space in the world and in business. Adrena speaks to the importance of engaging and leveraging the power of the diaspora and making history every day. Get ready to take notes as she shares wisdom for creative entrepreneurs and all business owners on how to determine your worth, price your services, find and interview your clients, and maintain control and power over your professional journey in these more volatile economic times. Adrena Ifill is an award-winning digital media producer and lecturer. She takes history off the shelf and makes it come alive! Her firm, Ifill/DoubleBack Global Group, specializes in preserving and producing culture and history projects.

Who are you? Why are you here? These were the questions posed to Akosua Edwards by a female-driven collective in rural Uganda, where she had gone to take her knowledge as a successful accountant to give advice and guidance to grow their business. Little did she know she would be the one who ended up learning the most, uncovering new truths about the meaning of success, purpose and self-love. The answer, she found, was that “You are here to give out the gift the universe put into you.” Identifying her gift has taken Akosua on a journey from unemployed accountant to successful author and award-winning social entrepreneur. Tune in (LINK IN BIO) to hear Akosua speak powerfully about the impact of a strong community, the freedom that comes from releasing those things that do not drive your purpose, and the role that business can play in creating not only commercial success, but also significant social change.

Money may not buy happiness but it sure does give you options! On this episode, financial planner Melinda Belle reveals simple strategies for debt management, and also shares some tips for budgeting, saving, and giving your money purpose and direction. Find out how to improve your “financial self-esteem”, the power of tracking your spending, and why you should really stop comparing yourself with others. Ever wondered how you can build a business with zero dollars? Tune in to find out!

Aldwyn Wayne is the Founder and CEO of WiPay which provides innovative solutions for e-commerce, online payments and facilitating digital transactions for the unbanked. In this episode, Aldwyn speaks about the need for challenge and competition in the technology space, and the need for input and innovation to elevate the industry in the Caribbean and beyond. Tune in to hear the challenges faced when making his place in the financial space, the power of knowing your worth, making your own path and always working toward and expecting success and excellence. Don’t miss Aldwyn’s take on leveraging the potential of the Internet for wealth creation, and his inspiring, practical advice for all aspiring entrepreneurs who may see obstacles instead of opportunities.   Resources: WiPay Caribbean