Create Your Life Series

Episode Summary Dennis Kimbro shares many rich stories from the thousands of interviews he has done over the last 25 years while conducting research on how black Americans earn their wealth, and what stops those who don’t. He speaks about his life philosophies, how he hopes to see the world change and how he uses his energy and his work to give back to younger black Americans.   Kevin Y. Brown Kev...

Episode Summary Brandon shares his experience and knowledge as an American businessman who has been running his business abroad for five years. He talks about the biggest challenges and the biggest things he has gained from his travels.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award recipient...

Episode Summary Rana talks transparently about her foray into podcasting, what helped her gain an audience and what her strategies where for growth. She speaks insightfully about her own hangups and fears, shedding light on challenges many entrepreneurs face in a humorous and honest way.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Pub...

Episode Summary Ilbert and Jean talk about their business venture, Garcon Couture, a luxury menswear line that is taking New York by storm. In just two years, the two are making strides into the upper echelons of New York’s fashion clientele. The two talk about how to work as a team and keep things authentic in the face of rapid success.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of...

Episode Summary Jennifer takes listeners through the journey of transitioning from working as a corporate lawyer to founding a business she’s super passionate about. She talks about her process of getting out of her own way to start the business, and how important it was for her to have a solid business partner, a strong network of people and strong female role models leading the way.   Kevin Y. B...

Episode Summary Toya takes us through her journey of rising through the ranks at Patchwerk and talks honestly about what she has learned along the way. She offers amazing insights into the music industry and advice for young women seeking a similar career path.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Di...

Episode Summary Mark goes deep detailing his entrepreneurial journey and the many insights he has picked up along the way. He talks about how his past work experiences facilitated his success as an entrepreneur and takes listeners through his meticulous and thorough thought processes.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public...

Episode Summary Kevin and Todd share a view from the inside, transparently talking about what is working and what they’re hoping to improve upon in their respective businesses. They share strategies for getting their first clients and how to stand out in their industries.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT)...

Episode Summary Colin Morgan shares his experience running a successful business. From finding sponsors for his podcast to creating goal setting strategies, following his passion has helped Colin advance as an entrepreneur.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award recipient, internation...

Episode Summary Gregg shares his own journey to podcasting and strategies for others interested in starting their own show. He talks about how to get and keep listeners, how to build and protect your brand, and what it really takes to turn around in 10 years and see you’ve built the life you always dreamed of.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy...

Episode Summary TejPaul Bhatia shares an honest story about his journey from founding to startups to ultimately leaving that world. He talks about what happens when your entrepreneurial dreams take you away from who you truly are, and how having a “normal” job has provided more space in his life for authenticity.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accounta...

Episode Summary Matt shares his journey of creating a successful online media business, including his pitfalls and the insights he gained. He talks about what it takes to wake up at 6 a.m. every day, be your own boss and stay inspired.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award recipient,...

Episode Summary Carl Joseph Black is bringing his financial expertise to the masses through a chatbot, Benjamin, that can answer users’ questions in real-time. He credits his rise to being disciplined and finding the confidence to take unconventional steps to success.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Bei...

Episode Summary Jeani shares openly about the twists and turns that lead her to eventually co-found Creator’s Group. She believes that failure is often a part of entrepreneurial pursuits, and she encourages other entrepreneurs to lean into that uncertainty.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Differ...

Episode Summary John Lee Dumas provides methods for success as an entrepreneur that also can be used in your personal life. He focuses on how to create a daily process for making moves in your business.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award recipient, international speaker, entrepren...

Episode Summary Cassandra practices what she preaches, using fitness and nutrition to help others create better lives for themselves. Her business is built on making others happy and healthy while giving them an unforgettable cultural experience.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award...

Episode Summary Cassandra practices what she preaches, using fitness and nutrition to help others create better lives for themselves. Her business is built on making others happy and healthy while giving them an unforgettable cultural experience.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “Being A Difference” award...

Episode Summary Elise Schuster’s company, Okayso, provides clients with confidential access to experts who cover topics from sexual health to self-image. Using a non-traditional path for a startup, Elise and her co-founder were able to create an innovative app that not only supports positive mental health, but also is funded by a federal grant. The distinct way in which she has achieved success is...

Episode Summary Chris “Stylezz” is passionate about everything he does. Speaking candidly about his podcast, Trappin Anonymous, Chris “Stylezz” isn’t afraid to have difficult conversations. And while he wants to satisfy his audience, his motivation is internally driven.   Kevin Y. Brown Kevin Y. Brown is a National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) Center For Public Trust (CPT) “B...

Episode Summary There are many factors that go into making a successful entrepreneur, including drawing from past experiences and addressing problems that people encounter everyday. Andrea Madho describes both of these circumstances and how they affected her, specifically. She shares her journey from Wall Street to becoming a business owner, but Andrea also reflects on what has made her successful...

Episode Summary Melissa Wahnish went from comedian/actress to Founder/developer. This leap may seem unexpected, but Melissa is a rockstar! Finding time to run several companies with her husband, Todd, participate in Meetups, and raise a family, Melissa gives advice on all matter of issues that women may encounter at work. From overcoming the feeling of imposter syndrome to using her acting skills...

Episode Summary Many cultures dissuade men from expressing emotions, in favor of being the “strong, silent” type. This way of thinking has been carried down through generations, and it has a particularly telling effect on men of color. Jason Rosario and Kevin have a frank discussion about how Jason’s company, The Lives of Men, is promoting healthy masculinity. Additionally, Jason and Kevin share h...

Episode Summary  Alternative energy sources have been gaining in popularity over the past several decades. However, public knowledge still lags behind when it comes to clean energy such as solar. Many people are unaware of the substantial benefits, including a reduction in financial burden, that result from switching to renewable energy. Benoy Thanjan, a juggernaut in the solar energy world, expla...

Episode Summary Mia Hairston has mastered excelling in the workforce. In this episode she discusses how her childhood experience of being raised in a Hispanic culture while being African American shaped her identity. Equipped with her academic and on the job training, she actively works to understand human behavior and meet the needs of the 19,000 memberships she oversees. And, as Mia explains, yo...

Episode Summary Whether you’re a CEO, a founder of a successful startup business, or a high-achieving employee, everyone needs to form partnerships and relationships in the business world. But how do you know if a partnership can be fruitful or if the value you contribute is recognized by your client? Kevin invites Doreen Rainey, Alechia Reese, and Todd Wahnish to this episode of CEO Talks to hash...