ideaHUb Innovators Podcast

In this episode, we're joined by Fenton Jagarnauth, owner of Fenton Jagnan LLC. Fenton has always been around business and business owners. Using the knowledge that he had in the past and realizing that he could profit from merging technology and carpentry, he started Fenton Jagan, LLC, a cabinet manufacturing company.  According to Fenton, understanding your customers is the most challenging...

In this episode, I’m joined by Acqullia A. Bailey, award-winning chef and founder of Quilla’s Catering, Inc.—a full-service catering company that’s been serving the tri-state area with heart and flavor for over 30 years. From soulful Caribbean dishes to elegant event planning, Acqullia has built a brand that feeds both the body and the community. Her story is one of resilience, service, and culina...

In this episode, I’m joined by Janna Rodriguez—a powerful voice in early childhood education, civic engagement, and community empowerment. From working on political campaigns at 14 to founding Innovative Daycare Corp, Janna has built a career rooted in service, equity, and advocacy. Her work bridges education, policy, and small business—making her a true champion for families and the future. 🎧 Tu...

Today’s guests are Dawn Kelly, and her partner and daughter, Jade Duncan, owners of The Nourish Spot Inc., a healthy food and beverage haven in Queens, NY. Dawn launched the Nourish Spot with her two children after a 35+ year career in PR and communications.  From corporate boardrooms to community-based entrepreneurship, Dawn has transformed her passion for wellness and service into award-winning...

In this episode, we're joined by Sean Phillips—a seasoned Sales and Marketing executive who made the leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship. After decades with top brands like Coca-Cola, MTV, and NBCUniversal, Sean founded Genesis Signs & Graphics, a full-service, minority-owned commercial sign company based in Farmingdale, NY. He brings creativity, strategy, and community impact...

In this episode, I’m joined by Godson Michel, President of Blue Surge Marketing Agency and founder of BlackLongIslandBusiness.com. From turning a sneaker hustle into a million-dollar e-commerce success to being named a 2024 Top 50 Black Marketer, Godson has become a force in growth marketing and community empowerment. 🎧 Tune in as he shares insights on scaling businesses, representation, and maki...

In this episode, we're joined by Virginia Gonzalez, co-founder of Aris Construction—a trusted residential and commercial construction company known for its quality craftsmanship and commitment to safety. An immigrant from Guatemala with a passion for building, Virginia turned a long-held dream into a thriving business alongside her husband, proving that determination and vision can lay the fo...

In this episode, we're joined by Clifford Exil, Founder and CEO of JetEx Mechanical LLC—a veteran and minority-owned certified business making major waves in HVAC, plumbing, and general construction. With over 15 years of industry experience and contracts with clients like the MTA, Columbia University, and Honeywell, Clifford is building more than just infrastructure—he’s investing in communi...

Today’s guest is a true force of faith and beauty—Dbora, founder of Dbora Cosmetics and Women in Power, joined by her business partner and son, Romee Gooden. For over 20 years, Dbora has built an inspiring cosmetics empire rooted in self-worth, service, and empowerment. From working with royalty and celebrities to uplifting women in shelters, hospitals, and underserved communities, she’s on a miss...

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Joy Williams—a powerhouse at the intersection of wellness, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Joy is the Associate Director of Community Engagement at Hofstra University’s Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Founder & CEO of SoulJoy Wellness, a lifestyle brand empowering Black women in mind, body, and soul. With deep root...

In this episode, we're joined by Avi Mukherjee, Hofstra University’s Pre-Award Grants Manager and past Assistant Director of Grant Writing and Management at Hofstra's Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. With over eight years of experience supporting interdisciplinary research and strategic initiatives, Avi joins us to share expert tips on navigating the world of grant writing—h...

In this episode, we're joined by Paul Williams—a dynamic CEO, multi-business owner, tech strategist, and national community leader. As the force behind Absolutely Trophies Inc. and GI Integrated Computer Solutions, Paul has built businesses that serve everyone from major institutions to local communities. But his influence doesn’t stop there—he’s also the founder of the Inner City Handball As...

This episode features Frederick Towles, an accountant, author, speaker, and finance coach committed to helping others unlock their full potential. As the founder of The Towles Group Inc., Frederick empowers individuals and small businesses with the tools they need for financial freedom, leadership, and long-term success. He also leads a non-profit, Unlimited Expectations Inc., where he teaches you...

In this episode, we're joined by Coralie Saint-Louis—a journalist-turned-media and tech entrepreneur with a mission to reshape how we consume news. Coralie is the creator of Enpak, a social media app delivering real-time, verified local news from accredited journalists—designed to build more informed and civically engaged communities. With deep roots in Haiti and a passion for inclusive media...

Today on the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, we have the privilege of speaking with Vanessa Best, an award-winning entrepreneur and the CEO & Founder of Precision HealthCare Consultants. Based in Baldwin, New York, Vanessa’s company has become a trailblazer in healthcare quality improvement, regulatory compliance, and ensuring equitable access to care. Serving 39 states and 11 countries, Precision...

On this episode of the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, our host, Dr. Lutisha Vickerie, sits down with Kenia Osorio-Wellington of Kear Solutions.   The idea for “Kear Solutions” came from a suggestion from Kenia’s father-in-law. He saw that there was a big opportunity to clean commercial offices. Many people were unhappy with the cleaning services they had, and Kenia knew she could provide a much bette...

On this episode of the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast, our host, Dr. Lutisha Vickerie, sits down with Marie Saint-Cyr, owner of Saint-Cyr Art Studio. Marie E. Saint-Cyr is a visionary artist, muralist, and the Founder & CEO of Saint-Cyr Art Studio. Marie has transformed public spaces through large-scale murals while fostering art education and community engagement. A graduate of the Fashion Instit...

We open the ideaHUb Innovators Podcast with Dr. Richard N. Hayes, Executive Director of Hofstra University's Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and an Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Frank G. Zarb School of Business. Dr. Hayes has transformed Hofstra’s entrepreneurship program, through impactful initiatives like the Ascend Long Island Program, the Hofs...