UnBossed

Black women have been excellent in business for years but only recently have industries begun the slow shift to welcoming us as we climb the ranks. Bonita Stewart, Vice President of Global Partnerships at Google is one woman who has - as she calls it - “a mindset of not being othered.” Instead, she says, “I don’t mind being the pioneer but I won’t be the only one.” Her path to success in the tech world is marked by determination and close examples like her father. On this episode of UnBossed Bonita shares the lessons she’s learned as a trailblazer and the commitments she’s made to bringing others with her straight to the top. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imani See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We love when we get to dig into the stories of Black women who’ve demanded fair pay since...childhood and built thriving businesses serving their community from scratch. That’s right, childhood. Today’s guest, Sherrell Dorsey (@sherrell_dorsey), the founder of The Plug Daily - started getting paid from a little girl, and hasn’t accepted anything less than her full worth since. But that doesn't mean that it's Easy Street. There are real sacrifices and stretched checks that go along with entrepreneurship. And Dorsey's business - The Plug Daily - is a service that “investigates and reports on Black tech trends, stories, and breaking news with a rigor and analysis you won’t find elsewhere.” Data, diversity and quality journalism are the foundational tools Dorsey employs to make sure underserved and under-covered entrepreneurs and their companies get the shine they deserve amidst the technology boom. Keep listening to hear Sherrell’s story. #UnBossed Podcast UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysProducers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

No matter what our career goals may be, we all strive for one thing - success! On today’s special episode of UnBossed, Monika Johnson - the Associate Vice President of Nationwide Financial, and Patrice Washington - Personal Finance Expert, each share how they’ve created their own blueprint. We tackled topics like discovering your true passion(s), when to make a career transition and the importance of discovering opportunities within obstacles. This episode of UnBossed is sponsored by Nationwide. UnBossed Host:Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysProducers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether you bus tables at a local restaurant or sit amongst the most influential policymakers in the nation, who you are matters. The work that you do matters. An incredible reminder of this truth is Massachusetts Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (@ayannapressley) whose impressive political rise, commitment to radical Black joy, and creating systemic solutions to systemic issues have reinvigorated hope for so many. Keep listening to grab each and every gem she brought with her to UnBossed. Let us know what you think of this episode using #UnBossedPodcast! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysProducers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Working harder and “leaning in” is simply not enough for US to earn the paychecks we deserve. This week, UnBossed is graced by the presence of Minda Harts (@mindaharts), author of the best-selling book, “The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table”. The career revolutionary has experienced it all: from microaggressions to imposter syndrome - and she wants every Black woman to know that not only are we in demand, but we don’t have to take what we’re given. Let us know what you think of this episode using #UnBossedPodcast! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysProducers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSocial:@randa_writes See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

August 13, 2020 is Black Women's Equal Pay Day. We’ve armed ourselves with the education, experience, and energy to break glass ceilings and now it’s time our paychecks and growth track in our careers reflect as much—no excuses, no delays, no holds barred. On this episode, we're bringing you a full Black Women's Equal Pay Day compilation episode featuring Minda Harts, Juliette Jones, Lauren Simmons, Sherrell Dorsey, Arian Simone, Arlan Hamilton, and Dia Simms. Get your notebook and get inspired! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSocial:@randa_writesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Lift as you climb” are to live and work by. For Black women in the workplace, having mentors to reach out to is crucial. It is indeed a key ingredient for personal success. This week’s guests Vicki Chancellor,President of McDonald’s Operator’s National Advertising Fund; Elizabeth Campbell, McDonald’s Senior Director of Marketing and Cultural Engagement; Mary Blackford, founder of Market 7 and Pine-Sol Legacy Winner; Cassandra Lewis Brand Manager of PineSol and Shaunte Mears-Watkins VP of Marketing for Clorox. These women give a WEALTH of insight into how mentorship has helped them rise and what they are doing in their positions and communities to reach back for others. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSocial:@randa_writesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Those who excel in life rarely do so by playing it safe. The same can be said for Noëlle Santos (@1st.noelle), the 33-year-old proprietress of the only bookstore in The Bronx, a community of over 1 million people. On this episode, Noëlle breaks down how she brought a bookstore home to her community in a time when many (mistakenly) thought indie bookstores weren’t thriving - and how she did it all without giving up even a little bit of her own interests, style, or convictions. (Bonus: There may or may not be a rap buried somewhere in this episode!) Use #UnBossedPodcast to tell us, what’s the goal you’re tunnel visioning toward like Noëlle? UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imani See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Very rarely do most consider that advocacy work can be a full 9 to 5 career choice. Janaye Ingram, Airbnb’s Director of National Partnerships knows better than anyone that her commitment to community and advocacy work is more than simply serving a weekend a month. From serving as an Americorps VISTA, to working with the National Action Network under Reverend Al Sharpton, to her time as Miss New Jersey - speaking and driving important initiatives across the state and country, Ingram has built a career that centers making a positive impact on the community while driving organizational and company goals forward. Let us know what you think of the episode using #UnBossedPodcast. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Executive Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSocial:@randa_writesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered many a business since it influenced a nationwide shutdown in March 2019. It’s struck fear in the heart’s of small business owners whether they’re brand new or have been open for a long time. Melba’s Restaurant (@melbasharlem) in Harlem has found its way through the pandemic, not unscathed but not closed for good either. How did its founder and namesake, Melba Wilson navigate the unsure waters of a pandemic? What keys can be learned for what’s to come? Check out the episode to hear how this beloved Harlem restaurateur is placing faith over fear and fighting for her community in this episode. Use #UnBossedPodcast to let us know what you think of the episode. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSocial:@randa_writesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are investments the best or easiest way to start a business? It's debatable. What's certain is that with the right preparation, planning, and love from your community you can build a thriving business. Just ask Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon (@drkeyhallmon), founder of thriving The Village Market (@thevillagemarketatl) in Atlanta, Georgia. On today’s episode Dr. Key breaks down how she decided to do something about the lack of Black businesses being showcased in Atlanta...without a single dollar of investor money, just donations from her own village. She also discusses how The Village Market has successfully pivoted during a global pandemic and national racial unrest. Keep listening after Dr. Key’s interview for another special Bonus Boss segment with Blackbird House founder, Brigid Coulter, sponsored by Pine-Sol. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imani See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A business isn’t successful if it isn’t profitable and too often women fear how they will be perceived if they ask for what their time and efforts are worth. But as this week’s guest, Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche (@thebudgetnista) says, “the more you make, the more you can do.” And trust, she knows of what she speaks, having experienced financial setbacks and teaching others how to overcome them as she did. Now, she helms a series of businesses that serve women who want to become financially free. Keep on listening to hear her thoughts on getting paid for your service, saving for retirement, and ‘voting with your money’ and so much more. And stick around afterward [55:41] for our BONUS BOSS Segment with WestRiver Managing Director, Richelle Parham. Sponsored by Pine-Sol. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The greats aren’t the greats because they played it safe. They mastered their craft and became known for their mastery, much like this week’s guest, Jermaine Dupri (@jermainedupri). In this episode, the hitmaker producer gives real life anecdotes and advice on how to gain the respect you deserve in your field - including a DOPE come-to-Jesus moment with the legendary soul singer, Aretha Franklin. Get into it and I hope you’ve got a notebook ready! Use #UnBossedPodcast to let us know what you think of the episode! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner:@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For ages, we’ve accepted that to start from the bottom means to accept well beneath the pay you are worth.This week’s guest, Lauren Simmons (@lasimmons), is making it her mission to shed some light on financial best practices for young women. And she’s doing it with a wealth of experience and she’s not even 30 yet. At 25 she was the only Black woman and youngest trader on the New York Stock Exchange Floor - history-maker. And as you’ll hear, making history wasn’t necessarily her goal. Her career is marked by strategic choices - including advocating for herself to make more money while trading at the New York Stock Exchange. She’s got great tips and tricks for young women who want to take full control of their finances and their career paths. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycDesigner@profoundly_imaniSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re inundated with information about taking care of our personal finances but what can financial health look like for couples? Should couples use joint accounts? Should they keep their money separate? Who pays the bills? How much should a couple invest in their business? Today’s guests Codie Oliver and Tommie Oliver have made a name for themselves by creating Black Love - the acclaimed docu-series shining a spotlight on the nuances of love and relationships. They give a 360-degree look into their money decisions both as business partners and as husband and wife from how much to save to how to create more income streams. Use #UnbossedPodcast to chime in and let us know some of the money tips and tricks you use in your relationship! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Building a career worthy of respect takes equal parts knowing your value and forging relationships with the right people. So, how do you know you’re making the right decisions and connecting with the right people? How do you make sure you’re valuing yourself at all times? Today’s guest has stories in spades about just that. Juliette Jones (@msjuliettejones) is the Executive Vice President of Urban Promotions at Atlantic Records and she got there by knowing exactly who she is and what she wants. From her first internship at MCI (a throwback!) to her current position, she’s excelled using her smarts, bomb ass work ethic and friendships with some of the best in the business to innovate in hip hop. Juliette has created a brand by just being true to herself and her trajectory, a skill no masterclass or influencer can really teach you. Get into this episode and I hope Juliette’s story inspires you as much as it inspired me. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s safe to say that most of the cannabis spaces that have opened up since its legalization are lacking two things: Melanin and patience. Conferences, VC funders, promoted businesses are all unequivocally white while Black cannabis entrepreneurs have been pushed aside. There are also a lot of people who think they’ll strike gold from the jump when they come into the cannabis business. WRONG. Enter tech, advertising, and business savant, Mary Pryor and CANNACLUSIVE - the cannabis imagery and education platform she founded with business partners Tonya Rapley and Charlese Antoinette. After experiencing the chronic and debilitating pain of autoimmune disease, Mary took her ingenuity, passion for uplifting her community, and her real lived experiences and channeled them into not just a digital platform but a movement to make the cannabis space more inclusive and accessible. Keep on listening and as always, let us know what you think of the episode on social media using #UnBossedPodcast! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnyc See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Working with your friends can either be the worst thing you’ve ever done or the best decision you’ve ever made. Fortunately, for actress and dynamic entrepreneur Keisha Knight Pulliam (@keshiaknightpulliam) and businesswoman extraordinaire, Arian Simone (@ariansimone), they walk the line of business partners and best friends seamlessly. With a friendship that spans over 20 years and about the same amount of time put into their own ventures, Arian and Keisha wanted to help women of color-led businesses in a practical way. So, they created the Fearless Fund - a venture capital fund that invests in WOC businesses seeking pre-seed, seed level or series A financing. The are bridging the gap in venture capital funding for women of color founders. To hear just how deep their friendship goes and how beautifully it lends itself to a successful VC fund - keep on listening. UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do you do when you experience a setback that you never saw coming? Today’s guest, Pinky Cole, knows all too well what it means to start over and literally rise from the ashes. She started with a small Jamaican American fusion restaurant in Harlem - has firsthand insight on what it can look like to rebuild an entire vision from the ground up after losing her first restaurant. Now she’s the owner and operator of one of the most famous food trucks and restaurants in Atlanta - Slutty Vegan. Hers is an inspiring brand of resilience and grit. And her journey from child hustler to self-taught restaurateur is a lesson for entrepreneurs everywhere. It’s not over until you quit. Want to know exactly how Pinky’s story unfolded? Keep on listening and don’t forget to use #UnBossedPodcast on all social media to keep the conversation going. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For years in entertainment, Blackness was an afterthought and actors had to make do with stylists who were ill-equipped to style, let alone maintain the health of their hair. Enter 3rd-generation hairstylist and all-around badass businesswoman, Kim Kimble (@kimkimblehaircare). She’s the epitome of an entrepreneur who saw a need and became the answer. We chatted at the Essence & New Voices Entrepreneurship Summit in Atlanta, and it was such an insightful conversation. Her years of experience equipped her to take it a step further and create haircare products that spoke to the health of all Black hair and not just for celebrities. It’s refreshing to see businesses and brands succeed because they serve a need just like Kim Kimble Haircare. Use #UnBossedPodcast to let us know what you think of the episode! UnBossed Host:@marquita_harris_Producer:@misstiffsaysAssociate Producers: @ashleylatruly@shadesofshan_Bookings:Audio:@anthonyfrasier@regardingjoshMusic:@gscdotnycSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.