WakesetGO!

Mercedes checks in with wakesetGO listeners in this episode as she discusses her start up joinIN a new social connection app, now available in the App Store and Google Play . Inspired by her own experiences moving to new cities and traveling abroad, Mercedes opens up about the challenge of building meaningful connections and finding a sense of belonging as an adult. With more people working remote...

In this episode of WakesetGO!, Conrad Alagaban talks about what it really takes to build wealth and more importantly, how to sustain it and pass it on. As the admin of a thriving 20,000+ member community, DFW Business Professionals Networking, Conrad shares what he’s learned about building influence, leading with purpose, and creating spaces where people can grow both financially and personally. W...

In this episode of wakesetGO! , host Mercedes chats with Alkan, the founder of Mailsoftly, about what it really takes to build a SaaS company from the ground up. From finding product–market fit to validating ideas and learning through trial and error, Alkan shares the unfiltered reality of the startup journey. What started as an idea after beginning his entrepreneur journey as a consult became a t...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jay Todd , a motivational speaker and educator who is on a mission to change the way we support youth through mental health advocacy. Jay opens up about what fuels his passion for helping young people heal, overcome trauma, and find the support they need to thrive in today’s world. We dive into the challenges facing inner-city school systems and why mental health r...

In this episode of wakesetGO! we dive into the intersection of Tech, Art, and Community with our guest based in France, Eli, CEO of Conspicuis. Learn how Eli was motivated to launch her business in the mental health space and discover how she built the resilience to go for it! Conspicuis transforms emotions into art using AI, and users can get started for free by visiting conspicuis.com Conspicuis...

In this inspiring episode of wakesetGO! , host Mercedes sits down with Doaa, a dynamic business leader from Saudi Arabia, to explore her journey of building her own confidence, embracing change, and redefining career paths. Doaa shares how she navigated a major career shift, and overcame self-doubt to wakesetGO! for it in her path in Saudi Arabia. We also learn how her home country is evolving and...

At just 31, Chelsea Walker , a medical scientist by day but known online as @theModLittleMelanin, survived a life-altering stroke. In this wakesetGO! episode, Mercedes has a candid conversation with Chelsea about how she uses fashion as a form of therapy, why she’s choosing goals over rigid plans, and how she's thriving as a macro influencer despite the odds. Chelsea discusses how passionate s...

In this special Earth 🌍 Day episode, we chat with Staroyce Nealy, co-founder of Global One Urban Farming , a social good nonprofit based in Kansas City, Missouri. Staroyce shares her journey of purchasing 1.1 acres after working to save up to focus on a dream of hers to have her own garden. That garden promotes healthy eating, which we dive into the natural ingredients in many of the plants at th...

 In this episode of wakesetGO! , host Mercedes Allen sits down with Dr. Holly P. Battrum, a Doctor of Eastern Medicine and Licensed Acupuncturist based in Kansas City. As the founder of Sjökort Health & Wellness, Dr. Battrum blends ancient practices with modern insights to help people heal, grow, and thrive. We explore her journey into holistic health, what drives her to wakesetGO each day, an...

On this episode Mercedes chats with Dr. Chandresh Patel, a clinical researcher with a background in biomedical engineering. Together, they discuss topics surrounding vaccines, the misconceptions about artificial intelligence, and the anxiety fueled by social media regarding everyday products and ingredients. Dr. Patel sheds light on how individual bodies may react differently to vaccines, emphasiz...

With the advanced use of technology, community building is easier, but also tougher for those who crave in-depth connections. In this episode, Mercedes explains what being parasocial is and how it can affect our online relationships. Also listen in as Mercedes breaks down the pros and cons of building communities online, vs. in person. Some of the pros to building online communities include tracki...

This episode discusses your "goat" whoever that may be some of our favorite entertainers, icons, and athletes have experience losing at some point. What makes them want to stay competitive makes them so great, and should motivate you as well to believe in your dreams just as much. Mercedes discusses how you can use challenges as your charge up to wakesetGO! after everything you set your mind to. A...

On this episode Mercedes discusses Walmart's brand refresh that was recently rolled out. Along with discussing other large companies, and how they resonate with their audiences by their logo, and use designs to cause customers to act/buy/purchase. With the use of mobile apps, many companies like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Target are having a chance to market to consumers at a faster rate than ever...

The Chinese New Year is a yearly celebration that occurs during the new moon, Jan. 21th -Feb 20th. Mercedes discusses traditions of the lunar year, where its celebrated, even how DEI laws affects how it is celebrated this year. With 2025 being the year of the snake, this is a good moment to prepare and set yourself up for long-term success. Enjoy the breakdown of how being thorough this year can h...

In this episode, we tackle the big question on every business owner's mind: What happens if TikTok goes away? While the potential ban looms, savvy entrepreneurs know the key to success is a diversified online presence. Tune in as we explore actionable strategies to prepare your business for any platform shifts, ensuring you stay afloat and continue connecting with your audience. Discover how t...

With the Superbowl approaching, Mercedes analyzes the success "it" factor that is common when it comes to coaches, and successful business owners. They not only embrace failure, but have a winning mindset. If you never give up, you build the resilience needed to go farther. Just because you are in a losing season, doesn't mean you are a loser. We also dive into company exploration as we see how Ap...

This episode Mercedes discusses tips and strategies to thrive in the current as well as any economy. As entrepreneurs its important to have a positive mindset that understands the power of community, and creativity. Though recent decisions of companies to remove DEI are happening rapidly, Mercedes breakdown the importance of using your voice to ensure talented people are not overlooked based on th...

In this episode of wakesetGO! hosted by Mercedes, we dive deep into the often-overlooked importance of rest and mental health, taking a closer look at how it played a pivotal role in the life of Olympic champion Simone Biles. Mercedes explores Simone’s bold decision to step back from the Tokyo Olympics, focusing on her mental well-being—a move that shocked the world but ultimately led her to come...

Your host Mercedes, Unpacks all things design, ai, and business strategy with graphic designer Robert Price, the visionary behind RP74 Creative. Bringing over 30 years experience in the design world we gain insight into how to wakesetGO! for it, as well as key elements to keep in mind when starting a business. In this discussion, Robert shares his insights on what makes design memorable and how it...

In the latest episode of wakesetGo!, hosted by Mercedes, we commemorate the conclusion of Women's History Month by engaging with Ariel Young, the innovative founder behind Copper and Brass Paper Goods. Ariel shares her remarkable journey from her roots as a school psychologist to becoming an entrepreneur dedicated to infusing the stationery industry with the vibrancy and joy of African America...

Prelude: When it comes to talking about diversity, it can make different people uncomfortable for whatever reason, however in order to support innovations in business, and technology, its important to highlight businesses no matter what the demographic is or ethnicity. ------------- In an increasingly diverse world, discussing diversity and inclusion can be a sensitive subject, yet it is essential...

On this solo episode Mercedes discusses how Warren Buffett, and Richard Branson both are very strict when it comes to their goals, so much they eliminate any distractions to be successful. One strategy discussed is the 2 list method, where Warren Buffet's lesson is put into place. Another story is shared about how Richard Branson turned down opportunities to make $$$ because it was not apart o...

Join your host Mercedes as she shares how pivoting has helped her on her journey, and how she tunes out the noise to make moves needed for personal growth. Listen in for a motivational boost that will inspire you to assess your goals, adjust your mindset, and take the steps necessary to turn your dreams into reality. - Remember, in the game of life and success, it's not just about taking risks...

In this episode, we are thrilled to have Johanna Voss, a distinguished Influencer Talent Manager who has been full-time in her business as an entrepreneur for over 10 years. Johanna shares her journey and experience navigating the intricate world of influencer marketing, representing diverse talent and connecting them with brands that resonate with their audience. Her expertise spans across strate...

In this episode, Mercedes talks about how complex and often misunderstood the concept of quitting is. Far from being a sign of defeat, we explore how strategic quitting can be a pivotal decision in the journeys of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Smart quitting and failure can be used as a stepping stone the difficult decision to quit projects or ventures that were not serving their...