How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield

In this special episode of How I Got Here, host Dreena Whitfield, the founder and CEO of WhitPR, takes the mic solo to share her personal journey as an entrepreneur and her insights on Black Business Month.Dreena opens up about the challenges and triumphs she has faced in building her agency, emphasizing the importance of diversity and authenticity in the PR industry. She discusses the role of Black agencies, the impact of larger firms encroaching on multicultural work, and the significance of championing Black founders and issues within the community.Tune in to this inspiring episode to gain valuable insights from Dreena on navigating the PR industry, the significance of Black Business Month, and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

In the episode, Christina Rice, the founder of OMNoire, shares her inspiring journey from a career in public relations to building a platform that redefines wellness and community for black women and women of color. She discusses her transition from PR to launching her own agency and the challenges she faced along the way. Christina also talks about the moment she discovered her passion for yoga and how it led her to create Omniwar. She shares her vision for the future of the brand and the importance of community and self-care in the wellness industry.Key Takeaways:Christina Rice transitioned from a career in public relations to launching her own agency before starting OMNoire.OMNoire is a platform that redefines wellness and community for black women and women of color.Christina's passion for yoga and her journey led her to create OMNoire as a safe space for black women to explore wellness and healing.OMNoire offers retreats, a home collection, and an academy to empower and support black women on their wellness journeys.Christina believes in the power of community and self-care and aims to create a one-stop wellness shop through OMNoire.Episode Outline: In this podcast episode, beginning at 0:00:30, we're introduced to Christina Rice, whose varied career journey is admired by host Dreena. From her high school dream of being an attorney, noted at 0:02:38, to opening a Nashville clothing store at 0:04:26, and transitioning to a PR career in New Jersey at 0:07:28, Christina's path is diverse and inspiring.A pivotal moment occurs at 0:10:59 when Christina starts her own agency after being laid off. This period also marks her wellness journey, as she discovers yoga and eventually becomes a certified teacher, a topic touched upon at 0:12:36. Christina's significant venture, Omnoire, aimed at healing for black women, is conceived in early 2016, highlighted at 0:13:32.The episode at 0:21:17 delves into the meaning behind "Omnoire" and Christina's achievements, including planning retreats and securing sponsorships. She shares her experience of focusing solely on Omnoire at 0:16:03 and attributes its success to community care and pioneering in the wellness industry at 0:25:33.Christina discusses expanding Omnoire into home products at 0:44:49 and her vision for it as a comprehensive wellness brand at 0:49:54. She offers advice to entrepreneurs at 0:51:22, emphasizing listening to one's inner voice. The episode wraps up around 0:57:46 with Christina sharing Bali's transformative impact on her wellness journey.Connect with Christina on....Instagram: @christinamriceLinktree: ChristinaRice This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Kamilah Forbes was supposed to be a doctor. She went to Howard University with a plan to study medicine and act on the side. Freshman biology changed that. She walked across campus to the theater department, and the rest is a story of hip hop theater festivals, Def Poetry Jam, HBO, and eventually becoming the Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater in Harlem.Key Takeaways:The clear career path does not always exist in arts and entertainment; sometimes you have to create the lane and build the audience for it yourself.Your biggest collaborators are often already sitting next to you; Kamilah's Howard classmates became her lifelong creative partners and co-builders.Moving a legacy institution forward means shifting from reverence to relevance while honoring everything that came before.Saying yes to a job while seven months pregnant taught Kamilah that there is never a "perfect time" to step into your purpose.The people you build with early in your career often become the people you build with for life.In this conversation, Dreena Whitfield sits down with Kamilah Forbes inside the Apollo Theater to talk about growing up as a first-generation Jamaican American theater kid in Chicago, pivoting from pre-med to fine arts at Howard, and co-founding the Hip Hop Theater Festival to create a space that didn't exist for young voices. Kamilah shares how a job interview to be an assistant to Stan Lathan turned into her first role in television on Def Poetry Jam for HBO, how she rose from talent executive to executive producer, and how a consulting gig at the Apollo eventually led to the opportunity to help shape its future.Topics covered in this episode:Why Kamilah chose Howard University and how HBCUs create spaces for Black identity and creative growthHow hip hop theater was born from young artists who didn't see themselves reflected on existing stagesThe path from Def Poetry Jam to directing and producing across theater and televisionHow the Apollo Theater transitioned from a commercial venue to a mission-driven nonprofitAdapting Ta-Nehisi Coates' "Between the World and Me" from book to stage to HBO filmWhat it means to lead a 90-year-old institution through expansion, including two new theaters at the VictoriaProducing the upcoming Soul Train musical with Questlove and Dominique MorisseauNavigating work-life balance as a working mom at a demanding cultural institutionAdvice for young Black artists: your biggest assets are sitting right next to youWho Should Listen: If you are a creative professional navigating arts and culture, a Black woman in leadership at a legacy institution, someone figuring out how to bridge passion and profession, or anyone interested in the intersection of art, activism, and community building, this episode is for you.About Kamilah Forbes: Kamilah Forbes is the Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater. A Howard University graduate, she co-founded the Hip Hop Theater Festival and has directed and produced across theater and television, including Def Poetry Jam and the HBO adaptation of "Between the World and Me." She is currently producing the Soul Train musical alongside Questlove and Dominique Morisseau.Learn more about the Apollo Theater: https://www.apollotheater.org Follow Kamilah Forbes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamilahfListen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you prefer audio. Watch the full video episode on Substack: https://howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@howigotherewdreenawSubscribe to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more conversations on purpose, leadership, and reinvention. (00:00) - Dreena Whitfield welcomes Kamilah Forbes, Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater (01:11) - How did growing up as a first-generation Jamaican American theater kid in Chicago shape Kamilah Forbes' career? (03:57) - Why did Kamilah Forbes switch from pre-med to theater at Howard University? (05:47) - How do HBCUs like Howard University shape Black creative professionals? (08:18) - What is hip hop theater and how did Kamilah Forbes help create the movement? (11:12) - How did a failed assistant job interview lead Kamilah Forbes to Def Poetry Jam on HBO? (15:15) - How did a consulting gig at the Apollo Theater turn into an Executive Producer role for Kamilah Forbes? (18:09) - What is the vision for moving the Apollo Theater from reverence to relevance? (20:11) - How did Kamilah Forbes adapt Between the World and Me from book to stage to HBO film? (27:10) - What advice does Kamilah Forbes have for young Black artists breaking into the industry? (28:16) - What is next for the Apollo Theater including the Soul Train musical with Questlove? (29:41) - How does Kamilah Forbes balance being a working mom and leading a cultural institution? (34:14) - Quickfire: favorite musical, personal mantra, and what is next for Kamilah Forbes

Welcome to the latest episode of "How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield," where we delve deep into the inspiring stories of individuals who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields. In this captivating installment, we explore the fascinating journey of none other than Rasheeda Gray, an extraordinary entrepreneur and interior design maven.In this episode, Rasheeda sits down with Dreena to discuss her path to becoming an entrepreneur and the unexpected twists and turns along the way.From high school aspirations in the creative business world to a successful corporate career, Rasheeda shares her personal journey of self-discovery and finding her true passion. Tune in as she opens up about the influences that shaped her career choices, including her aunt's work in a corporate environment, a character on a TV show, and a communications course in high school.Rasheeda takes us through her transition from the insurance industry to interior design, showcasing the importance of embracing different experiences and constantly evolving. She shares her fears, doubts, and the financial preparations she made before taking the leap into entrepreneurship.Join us as we delve into the rollercoaster nature of entrepreneurship and the bravery it takes to pursue your dreams. We'll also explore the day-to-day life of an interior designer, the importance of building a portfolio, and tips for designing your own home on a budget.Don't miss out on this witty, inspiring, and relatable episode featuring the incredible journey of Rasheeda and her passion for interior design. Get ready to be motivated and empowered to chase your own dreams, no matter where life takes you. Tune in now and be inspired!- Rasheeda's background and career path- Early interests and experiences- Transitioning into interior design- Leaving a corporate job to start own business- Challenges and doubts of entrepreneurship- Growth of Gray Space Interiors and real estate development- Daily routine as an interior designer- Advice for entering the design industry- Importance of planning and measurement in design- Believing in oneself and building relationships- Exciting updates and upcoming projectsNotable Quotes"You are crafting your career right now, even as a high school student. You just never know what your experiences will lead you to." - RasheedaKeywordsKeywords: high school, 23 years ago, creative, business world, college, marketing, advertising, entrepreneur, curating, creating, painting, artist, interior design, space planning, sketching, apartment, white box, corporate job, risk taker, partner, health insurance, savings, liquid cashEpisode Outline Rasheeda will be XYZ in ten years. [00:00:36] Trying different careers. [00:09:17] Knowing when to launch Gray Space interiors. [00:12:03] Planning the transition from corporate job to entrepreneurship. [00:12:38] Balancing purpose, passion, and stress. [00:15:24] Similarities between Rasheeda and Dreena. [00:15:56] Three tips for designing a home on a budget. [00:26:19] Goldman Sachs $10,000 small business program. [00:32:58]Connect with Rasheeda on....Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grayspaceinteriors/Website: https://grayspaceinteriors.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Welcome to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Felicia Hatcher, CEO of Pharrell Williams Black Ambition Opportunity Fund and co-founder of Black Tech Week conference. Hatcher shares her story of overcoming the challenges of being a C student in high school and how scholarships changed her perspective on education. Her experience led her to author the C Students Guide to Scholarships and start her own educational consulting business, teaching nontraditional students how to navigate the college application process. We discuss the impact of biased guidance from counselors on young individuals and how it affected Hatcher's decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of having someone in your corner with higher expectations and belief in your abilities. We also touch on Hatcher's experiences in experiential marketing and social media in the early 2000s, working with brands such as Nintendo and Sony. Hatcher shares her experience of entering the tech space through marketing and eventually launching Code Fever to teach African American and Caribbean youth how to code. We also discuss Black Tech Week and the Black Ambition Opportunity Fund, which invests in black and Latinx startup founders and provides resources and funding for Black-owned businesses. Don't miss this episode full of valuable insights and inspiring stories. Follow Felicia Hatcher on all social media platforms and check out the Black Ambition Prize for entrepreneurial funding opportunities.- Interview with Felicia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition Opportunity Fund- Winning scholarships changed her perspective- Creating opportunities for nontraditional students- Importance of having supportive mentors- Encouragement can change life trajectory- Early exposure to technology and coding- Launching Code Fever to teach coding to youth- Origin of Black Tech Week and its purpose- Journey of starting a frozen dessert business- Overcoming financial difficulties as an entrepreneur- Building an entrepreneurship ecosystem in Miami- Black Ambition Opportunity Fund's mission and programs- Abundant mindset and not creating limitations- Quickfire questions and future projects- Where to follow and subscribe to the speaker Introduction [00:00:23] Starting a business after college [00:09:30] Creating immersive experiences [00:11:55] Social media boom [00:12:06] Jumping into the tech field [00:12:43] Founding Code Fever [00:14:45] Branding strategy: associating with experiences [00:26:19] Planning during financial difficulties [00:32:22]Connect with Felecia on....Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feleciahatcher/Website: https://www.feleciahatcher.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Welcome to the latest episode of How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield! This week, we dive into the crucial topic of managing work and personal life, setting boundaries, and the importance of balance when it comes to managing time and mission. Our guest, the self-proclaimed Chief Estrogen Officer and founder of high-tech feminine care company, Feminine, Arion Long, shares her inspiring journey of success and the importance of setting boundaries.In this episode, you'll get a unique perspective on the challenges of balancing personal and professional life and how to prioritize big opportunities over smaller ones. You'll also hear about Long's early academic achievements, including going to college at the age of 15, and how she overcame challenges like not attending the best school district.Long's story is filled with powerful words like passion, success, and perseverance. Her story will leave you inspired and motivated to achieve your own goals. So, tune in to this must-listen episode of How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield and hear from Arion Long herself on how to balance work and personal life, set boundaries, and achieve the success that lasts a lifetime.- Managing work and personal life- Setting boundaries- Importance of balance- Early academic achievements- Upbringing in diverse NYC- Passion for science- Entrepreneurial Journey- Launching eco-friendly feminine products- Pitching and securing funding- Importance of storytelling- Launching a new product during a pandemic- Being a scrappy entrepreneur- Building an advisory board- Preparedness for opportunities- Femly's dashboard and potential retail expansion- Time management and setting boundaries- Personal growth and reflection- Social media handles and resources. What did you write in your high school yearbook? [00:00:27] Gunning for world domination [00:00:47] Black excellence personified; Tell me about your college experience. [00:09:01] Social interactions as a younger student in college. [00:09:38] How to tell stories; Use examples as a model. [00:25:27] Tip on being a "b***h" when trying to get grants. [00:25:40] Give classes or webinars on grant writing. [00:25:47] Reimagining the period care experience; Coin shortage. [00:30:09] Everything is an ode to being a scrappy black woman. [00:33:05] Day [00:33:13] Provider, nurturer, supporter, protector; Winter and a thick husband. [00:36:03]Connect with Arion on....Instagram: www.instagram.com/femlyLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/femlyceo/Website: www.femlybox.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com

Join Dreena Whitfield in an engaging interview with Shanae Ingleton Smith, a trailblazing media entrepreneur. Shanae shares her journey from dreaming big in Calgary to starting her own agency in Toronto. She turned her blog into a booming business, mastering marketing, advertising, and social media. After maternity leave, she fearlessly launched her own company, Kensington Gray. Get inspired by Shanae's finance-to-success story and her captivating insights on entrepreneurship. Tune in now!Notable Quotes- "I was always very intentional, and I believed I would always envision myself and manifest things, and I always wanted bigger and better for myself." Shannae Ingleton-SmithKeywordsKeywords: Shanae Ingleton Smith, trailblazing, creator, strategist, multi-hyphen, entrepreneur, media space, Calgary, marketing, PR, CEO, success, influencer, followers, agency, manage, deals, opportunities, Gray Effect, talent.Episode Outline Growing up with big aspirations [00:01:16] Planning her exit strategy [00:07:08] Discovering the potential of being an influencer [00:08:33] Starting the agency by chance [00:09:11] Dreaming big with her husband [00:10:57] The benefits of signing with her agency [00:23:56] Proudly talking about the agency's success [00:24:13] Measuring the success of a campaign [00:30:20]Connect with Shannae on…Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontoshay/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannaeingleton/ Kensington Grey: https://www.kensingtongrey.co/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com