Gritfully

What does it really take to grow and sustain a small business in today’s competitive landscape? In this episode of Gritfully, host Denene Rodney sits down with Willie Mae Veasy, President of Covenant Business Concepts, to explore the journey from surviving the grind to thriving with strategy.We dig into the challenges entrepreneurs face, especially women, BIPOC, and immigrant founders, and unpack how to break out of hustle culture, pricing pressure, and the “red ocean” of competition. Willie Mae shares her insights on the Blue Ocean Value Innovation framework (BOVI), offering real-life success stories and practical steps founders can use to carve out uncontested market space.From mindset shifts and execution strategies to the power of partnerships, this conversation is packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs at every stage. If you’re ready to stop competing and start creating, this episode will help you find clarity, originality, and grit.

Money can make or break your business. In this episode of Gritfully, host Denene Rodney sits down with Ramona Cedeno, CPA, CFP, and CEO of FiBrick, to unpack the financial fundamentals every entrepreneur needs to thrive.From separating personal and business finances to understanding taxes, funding, and cash flow, Ramona brings 20+ years of expertise working with Fortune 500s, startups, and small businesses. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build long-term profitability and personal wealth.Tune in for real talk, practical strategies, and financial wisdom to help you lead with clarity and confidence.

Welcome back to Gritfully! In this episode, host Denene Rodney dives into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of running a business—understanding the legal fundamentals that can protect and empower entrepreneurs.Joining us is Gopal M. Burgher, Corporate Attorney at BurgherGray LLP, who brings his expertise in corporate law, financing, mergers and acquisitions, and real estate to the conversation. Together, we’ll break down key legal concepts every business owner should know, from entity formation and contracts to risk management and compliance.Whether you're launching a startup or scaling an existing business, this episode is packed with essential insights to help you avoid costly mistakes and build a legally sound foundation. Tune in and take the first step toward safeguarding your business!

Insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when hit by unexpected circumstances but we’ve got you covered! In this episode ofGritfully, we sit down with Christian C. Nwasike—expert in leadership, executive coaching, and career development—to break it all down. Tune in for valuable insights! Tune in for inspiration, honest conversations, and key takeaways to help you navigate the road to sustainable business success. Let’s redefine grit, together.Follow Grifully on IG @_Gritfully, djr_wanderlust & _behind_the_numbershttps://denenerodney.com/Follow Zebra: Instagram - @Zebra_Strategies, LinkedIn/Facebook - look up Zebra StrategiesDont forget to visit: zebrastrategies.com

In Episode 2 of Gritfully, we explore Restraint and Mindset—keys to preventing small business failure.I’m joined by Dr. Sandi Webster, a powerhouse entrepreneur who’s scaled her business to multi-million-dollar success and shares insights on grit, growth, and resilience.Tune in for inspiration, honest conversations, and key takeaways to help you navigate the road to sustainable business success. Let’s redefine grit, together.Follow Grifully on IG @_Gritfully, djr_wanderlust & _behind_the_numbershttps://denenerodney.com/Follow Zebra: Instagram - @Zebra_Strategies, LinkedIn/Facebook - look up Zebra StrategiesDont forget to visit: zebrastrategies.com

You must have grit to be an entrepreneur! Join host Denene Rodney, founder and CEO of Zebra Strategies, as she explores the relentless determination, passion, and resilience required to succeed as a Black entrepreneur. In this premiere episode ofGritfully, Denene shares her journey, reflects on her father, Karl Rodney's lessons, and uncovers the concept of "grit" through real stories and practical insights.Tune in for inspiration, honest conversations, and key takeaways to help you navigate the road to sustainable business success. Let’s redefine grit, together.Follow Grifully on IG @_Gritfully, djr_wanderlust & _behind_the_numbershttps://denenerodney.com/Follow Zebra: Instagram - @Zebra_Strategies, LinkedIn/Facebook - look up Zebra StrategiesDont forget to visit: zebrastrategies.com