Standing On Business Podcast

In this episode of Standing On Business, Bianca and Amari sit down with Brent Craige, Founder & CEO of Newtral Groundz for a candid conversation about what it really means to build from the ground up - across industries and stages of life.Brent walks us through his journey from his early days in college, to building a media platform, to founding a tech startup, and everything in between. We talk about how each chapter informed the next, the lessons learned along the way, and the hard pivots that shaped his path.This episode goes beyond creativity. Brent breaks down how storytelling and narrative-building operate as business strategy, not just creative tools, and why innovation is a mindset every builder has to develop. He also shares what stepping fully into the CEO role has required at each stage, from leadership to long-term vision.If you’re building something of your own, navigating pivots, or learning how to evolve without losing your foundation, this episode is full of practical insight and real gems!Huge thank you to Brent for joining us!To connect with Brent, check out his links below:Linkedin: (4) Brent Craige | LinkedInNewtral Groundz: Newtral Groundz — The Culture Channel of New Orleans - Newtral GroundzPlug & Profits Substack: Brent Craige | SubstackJazz Bounce Website: Welcome to the Jazz Bounce Lounge - Jazz Bounce LoungeC O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Standing On Business, we’re joined by Josh Owen, co founder of Comfy Stone Films and one of New Orleans’ most intentional community builders. What started as a production company has grown into something much bigger, an ecosystem centered on connection, opportunity, and collaboration.Josh shares how he has built and sustained multiple networking hubs across the city, including Brand Intervention, Hustle & Grind, Networking Group, Entrepreneur Club, and more. We talk about the mindset behind being a true connector, how community fuels business growth, and why relationships are often the most overlooked asset in entrepreneurship.If you are interested in understanding the mind of an expert networker or learning ways to get involved and build meaningful connections in your own city, this episode is a must listen.A big thank you to Josh ([email protected]) joining us, and we hope you enjoy the conversation. C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

We’re back with another episode of the Standing On Business podcast! This one’s a solo episode, and since it’s spooky season, we’re talking all about the career pitfalls, mishaps, and bad habits that can sneak up on you if you’re not careful.From missed opportunities to self-sabotage, this episode dives into the real lessons learned the hard way - and how to avoid letting your career turn into a graveyard of “what ifs.”Grab your notebook, your iPad, whatever you use to take notes - because this one’s full of insight to keep your goals alive and thriving!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this solo episode, Bianca and Amari break down one of the oldest truths in business and entrepreneurship: success often comes down less to what’s in your head and more to who’s in your corner. They share personal stories of doors that opened through relationships, how to build meaningful connections without feeling transactional, and why networking is more about authenticity.From cultivating community to recognizing the power of mentorship and collaboration, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone looking to elevate their career or business. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn conversations into opportunities or how to get in the right rooms, this episode is for you.C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

This week on the Standing on Business Podcast, we’re diving deep into the realities of the creative and entrepreneurial grind—and how that journey sets itself apart from the traditional corporate track.We’re joined by two powerhouse guests who live and breathe the hustle: ✨ Sarai Thompson – Senior Social Media Manager at theSkimm, Founder of The After Party, and Creator/Host of The Girls Room Podcast ✨ Gavon Broomfield – Senior Strategist at Highsnobiety and Founder of The Right Hype platformTogether, we unpack: 🎨 The evolving landscape of the creative/entrepreneurial hustle 🚀 Opportunities + challenges that come with stepping outside the 9–5 mold 🌍 How to balance passion, purpose, and sustainability in your work 🤝 The power of building a network that fuels growth and innovationIf you’re chasing your own venture, balancing a 9–5 with a 5–9, or simply curious about what’s possible beyond the cubicle—this episode is for you.Tune in now and join the conversation!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re flipping the script a little bit. Standing on business isn’t just about the grind—it’s about balance. Yes, we’ve talked a lot about building, working, and staying locked in, but life isn’t meant to be all work. Hobbies and passions outside of your 9-to-5 or hustle matter too.From self-care to creativity to building skills that can actually help you professionally, hobbies give us the balance to show up as our best selves. In Work Hard, Play Harder, Bianca and Amari dive into why it’s important to make space for play, how hobbies fuel growth, and why learning to enjoy life is just as much a part of standing on business as the work itself.No guests this week—it’s just the two of us sharing thoughts, lessons, and stories on balance, creativity, and living fully. Hope you enjoy!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

Surprise, surprise. 🎉Eight months ago, we began this journey—two voices, one vision. Stories stitched with lessons, laughter, and late-night dreams of what could be.Eight is also the number of new beginnings. So today, in honor of Amari’s 30th birthday, we’re giving YOU a gift: Season 2 of the Standing On Business Podcast.Bigger. Bolder. Standing even more solid on the platform we’ve built, we’re kicking things off with a conversation every creative needs—how to build partnerships that actually grow your business. From finding the right collaborators to creating something bigger than yourself, we’re sharing the strategies, mistakes, and wins that got us here.Cheers to growing—together. 🥂 🎥 Watch on YouTubeC O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected] #StandingOnBusinessPodcast #Season2 #NewBeginnings #BirthdayDrop #CreativeCollaborations #BiggerAndBetter #PurposeInAction

In the season one finale of Stand Up On Business, Bianca and Amari close out the first chapter of the podcast with a powerful solo conversation about what it truly means to prioritize your pivot. Building on the last episode’s focus on keeping your day job, this time they dive deeper—exploring purpose, passion, and the courage it takes to embrace change.From the people who’ve supported their journeys, to the challenges, moments of loneliness, triumphs, and accomplishments along the way, they share candid reflections on navigating pivotal moments. This is an honest look at who they are, what drives them, and how you can center your purpose while making bold moves.Thank you for being part of this first season. We can’t wait to continue the conversation with you in season two—coming this fall!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t quit your day job,” but in this solo episode, we’re unpacking why that might not be the bad advice it sounds like. Whether you’re building something on the side or still figuring out your next move, your nine-to-five can be more than just a paycheck—it can be a launchpad.We’re breaking down how to maximize your current role, identify transferable skills, and use your job to fuel your future goals. This one’s for anyone navigating the balance between ambition and stability. We’re not knocking entrepreneurship (we live it), but we’re giving props to the power of being strategic right where you are. C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Standing On Business, we sit down with two incredible guests: Annelle Primm, M.D., MPH, Senior Medical Director, and her daughter India Primm-Spencer, MHA, Clinical Operations Manager in Women’s Health. Both women come from a remarkable legacy of healthcare leaders, including their late patriarch, Dr. Benny Primm, a pioneering anesthesiologist who made significant contributions during the AIDS crisis across multiple presidential administrations.As we continue to honor Mental Health Month, this episode explores the intersection of family, legacy, and mental health. Dr. Annelle Primm and India share their personal journeys in healthcare and their deep-rooted commitment to mental health advocacy. From understanding the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges to knowing when and how to check in with yourself and your community, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Whether you're looking to reflect on your own mental health or better understand how to support those around you, this conversation is full of gems and offers resources to help guide your journey. Listen in as we dive into meaningful discussions around family legacy, mental health, and the power of community.You won’t want to miss this one!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we explore corporate burnout—what it is, how it shows up, and the steps you can take to cope. As Mental Health Awareness Month continues, we discuss how burnout can impact your work, whether you're in a corporate role, running a business, or creating content.We talk about the signs of burnout, why pushing yourself too hard isn’t the answer, and how to find balance through self-care practices. From recognizing when you're at capacity to setting boundaries and asking for help, this episode is a grounding reminder to check in with yourself and prioritize your mental well-being.If you're feeling drained, this episode will help you recharge and take action before burnout takes hold. Tune in for practical tips and honest reflections on navigating burnout in any career!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Standing on Business, we’re highlighting the educators shaping the future—inside and outside the classroom. We’re joined by Mrs. Debbie Broadnax, M.A., Ed.S., a veteran educator and administrator with over 30 years of experience, and Mrs. Dorojen Evans, M.A., a passionate, emerging school leader bringing a fresh, millennial perspective to today’s education system. Together, they share their journeys, their hopes for the future of education, and what they’re doing in their schools to ensure no child is left behind. From tackling reading challenges to nurturing students with diverse talents, these women are deeply committed to creating environments where every child can thrive.This episode is filled with inspiring stories, real talk about the state of education, and powerful reminders that our teachers and administrators are true community servants. After listening, you’ll feel moved to advocate for your local educators and uplift those working every day to educate our future leaders.🎧 Tune in to hear wisdom across generations—and a call to action to support the people doing the work behind the scenes every day. C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we explore how authentic relationships in the workplace can shape your career, shift your perspective, and open unexpected doors. From learning each other’s work styles to building genuine connections that extend beyond the office, we break down why who you know and how you know them really matters.We also get real about what happens when relationships reveal what isn’t for you—like shadowing someone you admire and realizing their path isn’t yours.Whether you’re navigating a corporate job, chasing creative dreams, or figuring out your next move, this conversation is your reminder that success isn’t just about skill—it’s also about connection.🎧 Listen now on YouTube and all streaming platforms!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Standing On Business, we sit down with Dr. Brian L. Pettiford, MD, MBA, MMM, Section Head of General Thoracic Surgery at Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center. A distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon and a trailblazer in medicine, Dr. Pettiford was the third Black graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s general surgery program and the first to complete their cardiothoracic surgery program—breaking barriers in a field where Black representation remains scarce.Dr. Pettiford shares how personal loss ignited his passion for medicine, the challenges of navigating spaces where he was often the only Black professional in the room, and the discipline it takes to thrive in high-stakes environments. Most importantly, he offers invaluable advice to the next generation, emphasizing the power of mentorship, excellence, and lifting others as you climb.This episode is a powerful conversation on perseverance, representation, and what it truly means to stand on business in medicine.🎧 Listen now on YouTube and all streaming platforms!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

It’s just us this week—no guests, just a real conversation between the two of us about something we’ve both experienced firsthand: healthy disruption in corporate spaces. Disrupting the status quo doesn’t always mean causing chaos—it can be a powerful tool for growth, change, and innovation. But how do you challenge systems without being labeled as “difficult”? How do you advocate for what’s right while maintaining your influence?In this episode, we’re sharing our personal experiences in leadership, corporate strategy, and community impact to break down:✅ The difference between reckless disruption and strategic disruption✅ How to push for change without burning bridges✅ Why disruption isn’t always negative—it can actually fuel innovation✅ The key to balancing influence, respect, and impactWe dropped a lot of gems in this one, giving y’all insight into how we approach disruption in our own spaces. Whether you’re in corporate, entrepreneurship, or navigating leadership in any capacity, this episode will help you rethink how to make real change—without losing yourself in the process. Tap in!🎧 Listen now on YouTube and all streaming platforms!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

In this transformative episode of Standing On Business Podcast, we sit down with Bivian ‘Sonny’ Lee III, the Founder & CEO behind Son of A Saint, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting young boys in New Orleans who have lost their fathers.Following our conversation with Deborah Grimes, we now turn the spotlight on Sonny’s own journey—his upbringing, the personal experiences that shaped his purpose, and how they fueled his passion for mentorship. We dive deep into the power of male advocacy, the role of nonprofits in shaping communities, and the life-changing impact of showing up for the next generation.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the importance of legacy, leadership, and lifting others up. Sonny’s story is a testament to what’s possible when mentorship meets action, and how one person’s vision can create a ripple effect of empowerment, transformation, and opportunity.🔥 This is more than just a conversation—it’s a call to action.🎧 Listen now on YouTube and all streaming platforms!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

This episode is a special one! We’re sitting down with our very first guest—Deborah Grimes, Senior Vice President, Chief Health Outcomes and Inclusion Officer at Ochsner Health. Not only is she a powerhouse in healthcare, but she’s also a mentor to both of us, making this conversation even more meaningful.Deborah Grimes takes us through her journey in healthcare, sharing how her diverse educational background shaped her career. But beyond her own path, we get into the real impact of mentorship and sponsorship—how they differ, why they matter, and how they can transform careers.We’re breaking down:✨ What to look for in a mentor (and how to be a good mentee)✨ How to become an impactful mentor yourself✨ When it’s time to move on from a mentor-mentee relationship✨ The key role mentorship plays in career growth, especially for womenThis is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow personally and professionally. We can’t wait for you to hear it! 🎙️Listen now on YouTube and all streaming platforms!C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

What does it really take to be successful? In Episode 2 of the Standing on Business Podcast, we’re diving into “The Science of Success” to unpack the habits, mindset, and strategies that drive high achievers to the top.We’ll explore how to cultivate a winning mindset, navigate challenges with resilience, and unlock your full potential—no matter where you’re starting from. With insights drawn from real-world experiences and practical advice, this episode is all about helping you understand the ingredients for sustainable success.If you’re ready to start building a blueprint for your own journey, this episode is a must-listen.C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]

Episode 1- Standing on Business: Breaking Down the BasicsWelcome to the Standing on Business Podcast! In this debut episode, meet your hosts, Amari Green and Bianca Cook, and get an inside look at the heart and mission of the podcast. We’re breaking down what it truly means to “stand on business” and why it’s more than just a buzzword—it’s a mindset and a way of life.You’ll hear about our personal journeys, the “why” behind this platform, and our vision for building a space where professionals and entrepreneurs can thrive. We’ll also share our call to action for our listeners, how you can join us on this journey, and what to expect in future episodes.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode lays the foundation for everything we’ll explore together.C O N N E C T  W I T H   US:Podcast Instagram: @standonbusiness.podHost Instagrams: @withlove_amari & @withbianca.coLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/standing-on-business-podcast/Email: [email protected]