How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield

How I Got Here with Dreena WhitfieldGuest: Chantel Powell, Founder & CEO of Play PitsIn this episode, Dreena sits down with Chantel Powell, founder and CEO of Play Pits, to talk about what it takes to build something from the ground up and keep going when everything falls apart.From styling wardrobes at Tyler Perry Studios to creating one of the most beloved natural deodorant brands in the country, Chantel shares how motherhood sparked her purpose, how faith carried her through loss and a warehouse fire, and how she continues to rise like the phoenix she is.This conversation is a story of resilience, faith, and legacy — a reminder that the hardest seasons often shape the strongest leaders.⏱️ Episode Chapters[00:00] Introduction – Dreena welcomes Chantel Powell and sets up her journey from film to entrepreneurship.[03:10] The Moment That Sparked Play Pits – Her son’s “funk” leads to a kitchen experiment that changes everything.[06:00] From Kitchen Experiments to a Formula That Worked – Testing, feedback, and finding a natural chemist.[11:45] Laid Off and Launching Play Pits – Turning a layoff into a backyard launch moment.[15:10] First Big Break – Unique Jones’ “Because of Them We Can” feature sends sales soaring.[24:00] The Target Journey – The missed meeting that led to an undeniable retail moment.[35:30] The Warehouse Fire – Losing it all, surrendering, and rebuilding through faith.[46:00] Rising from the Ashes – Chantel’s phoenix moment and what legacy means now.[50:45] What’s Next for Play Pits – New products, family inspiration, and faith leading the way.Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the pivots that shape who we become.

#HowIGotHere guest and interior design entrepreneur Rasheeda Gray shares how she was able to turn her corporate skills into a full time creative venture, all while nurturing her family and managing her career. Stream Season 3, Episode 8 to hear more! 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 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

Summary:Necole Kane is the visionary force behind Necole Bitchie, xo Necole, and the new wellness brand, My Happy Flo. She started her career in entertainment news and celebrity gossip, eventually launching Necole Bitchie, which became the go-to black-focused celebrity website. After the success of Necole Bitchie, she rebranded to xo Necole, focusing on empowering black women with content on mental health, relationships, and more. In 2017, Will Packer acquired xo Necole. Necole has now launched My Happy Flo, a hormone balance supplement for women with periods.Key Takeaways:Necole started Necole Bitchie after moving to a small town and realizing her vision was bigger than working at Walmart.She grew Necole Bitchie to 20 million daily page views through consistency and dedication.The rebrand to xo Necole was driven by a desire to create a platform for black women to discuss topics beyond celebrity news.Necole's acquisition by Will Packer was a result of her viral video and a series of conversations over several months.She faced challenges during the acquisition process, including concerns about alignment and the future of her brand.Necole's latest venture, My Happy Flo, was inspired by her personal experiences with her mother's battle with breast cancer and her own studies in holistic health.My Happy Flo aims to provide black women with a hormone balance supplement that addresses common deficiencies and supports overall reproductive health.Episode WebsiteIn this Episode: In this episode, starting at 0:00:30, we delve into Necole Kane's fascinating journey from aspiring actress to digital media powerhouse. At 0:02:20, discover the inception of her influential blog Nicole B****y, followed by her strategic pivot to Exo Nicole at 0:04:02, highlighting her adaptive business acumen. Necole reveals her effective networking strategies at 0:05:33 and the pivotal viral interview with Chili at 0:06:11 that propelled her into the spotlight.The challenges and transformation from Necole Bitchie to xo Necole are candidly discussed at 0:07:40 and 0:08:47, providing insights into Necole's resilience and vision. A significant moment in her career is the acquisition of xo Necole by Will Packer in 2017, detailed at 0:10:57, marking a new chapter in her professional journey.Necole opens up about her personal struggles, including depression and fear of failure, at 0:12:21, and shares her insights on vision alignment and building the right team at 0:19:44. The episode also explores her venture into women's health with My Happy Flo, addressing the need for education around menstrual cycles and hormonal imbalances, touched upon at 0:25:21.Concluding at 0:34:55, Necole shares her excitement for the future of My Happy Flo and offers personal insights, including her advice to her younger self and her self-care activities, wrapping up with where to follow her journey on social media at 0:37:13. 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

In this captivating podcast episode, join me as I delve into the extraordinary journey of Michelle Ganey, the brilliant mind behind Lamiga Events. From aspiring lawyer to event planning entrepreneur, Michelle's story is one of following your passion and embracing unconventional career paths. Get ready to be inspired by her insights on building a thriving business, finding a balance between work and family, and creating impactful event designs. Don't miss this empowering conversation on how to navigate the world of event planning with excellence and authenticity. Tune in now!- Michelle's journey from aspiring lawyer to event planner- The importance of family and work-life balance- Finding inspiration and setting price points in the industry- Creating a strong community and building relationships- Embracing niche markets and becoming an authorityEpisode Outline: In this latest episode of "How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield," listeners are treated to the extraordinary story of Michelle Ganey, the creative mind behind Lamiga Events. [00:00:00] The episode begins with Dreena expressing her enthusiasm about having Michelle as a guest. [00:00:00] Dreena starts with an intriguing question to Michelle, asking about her high school yearbook prediction for her future. [00:00:37] Michelle reveals her initial ambition to become an attorney, a path quite different from her current career. [00:00:51] She shares that this aspiration stemmed from her childhood, inspired by the character Claire Huxtable from "The Cosby Show." [00:01:12] The discussion moves to Michelle's academic pursuits, highlighting her college degree in political science. [00:01:29] Michelle also discusses her decision to work full-time after college to support herself independently. [00:02:28]The episode then explores Michelle's transition into event planning, inspired by her personal experience with planning her wedding. [00:02:55] Michelle talks about the lack of established career paths in event planning 23 years ago and her initial focus on milestone celebrations. [00:02:55] Dreena shifts the conversation to the challenges faced by entrepreneurs who juggle a full-time job with their passion projects. [00:05:15] Michelle reflects on the changes in the event planning industry, noting the influence of the movie "The Wedding Planner" and the rise of wedding blogs. [00:05:42] She recounts her experience from 2004 to 2007, when event planning was her side hustle, with a focus on milestone birthday celebrations. [00:11:00]A poignant moment in the episode occurs when Michelle shares advice she gave to a planner struggling to differentiate herself. [00:33:55] Michelle emphasizes the importance of leveraging one's unique qualities as a strength. [00:39:00] Dreena then inquires about the factors contributing to the success of Michelle and Lamiga Events. [00:40:28] The episode concludes with Michelle describing herself in one word and mentioning one of her legacy clients. [00:42:37] 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 this captivating episode of How I Got Here, join host Dreena Whitfield as she sits down with Kamilah Forbes, the extraordinary executive producer of the iconic Apollo Theater in Harlem. Prepare to be inspired as Kamilah takes us on a journey from her early days as a theater kid to her current role at the Apollo.Discover how Kamilah's passion for both medicine and acting led her on a unique path, ultimately solidifying her love for the theater. From participating in makeshift Star Wars plays to being cast as an Ewok, Kamilah shares the pivotal moments that shaped her desire to tell the stories of black and brown people in the theater.Explore the power of HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and their transformative impact on Camila's career and personal growth. Learn how Howard University played a vital role in shaping her journey, providing her with lifelong friends and collaborators.Join us as Kamilah Forbes delves into the world of hip-hop theater and the creation of the Hip-Hop Theater Festival. Witness how she and her friends pioneered their own work and built a vibrant community around hip-hop theater.Experience the magic of the Apollo Theater as Kamilah shares her role in the institution's rich history. From working on renowned television shows to directing and producing for theater, Camila's journey is a testament to embracing one's passion and defying expectations.Uncover the importance of diversity and inclusion in the programming of the Apollo Theater. Kamilah Forbes highlights the need for aesthetic diversity, showcasing artists from different backgrounds and generations, as the theater strives to remain relevant in today's cultural conversation.Don't miss this thought-provoking episode as Kamilah Forbes opens up about the cultural impact of the Apollo Theater. Join her in discussing the challenges of building upon its established brand and her work in adapting Ta-Nehisi Coates' book, "Between the World and Me," into a live staged version at the Apollo.Discover the incredible journey behind the creation of the performance "Between the World and Me" and its timely release during the 2020 elections. Learn how Kamilah Forbes and her team pivoted amidst the pandemic to produce a powerful film version that ignited urgent conversations within the Black community.And be sure to stay tuned as Kamilah Forbes reveals the upcoming renovations and developments happening at the Apollo Theater. From new spaces to the highly anticipated production of "Soul Train," there is no shortage of excitement and innovation at this iconic institution.Join us on this captivating episode of How I Got Here as Dreena Whitfield and Kamilah Forbes delve into the magic, history, and legacy of the Apollo Theater. Brace yourself for an extraordinary conversation filled with inspiration, empowerment, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.- Kamilah Forbes' journey from aspiring doctor to theater producer- The power of art and healing- Early experiences in theater, including a Star Wars play- The impact of seeing "Once on This Island"- Changing career paths and the role of Howard University- The lack of representation in traditional theater- Creating the Hip Hop Theater Festival- Transitioning to the entertainment industry and working with influential artists- The importance of diversity and inclusion at the Apollo Theater- Redefining the perception of the Apollo Theater brand- Work-life balance as a working mother- Encounters with Black Santa on 125th Street- The magical experience of working at the Apollo Theater- Quickfire questions and insights into the hosts' favorites and personal quotes- Collaboration and the convergence of cultural arts and activism- Advice for up-and-coming artists- Future plans for the Apollo Theater, including the Soul... 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 latest episode of the How I Got Here podcast, host Dreena Whitfield sits down with Dayna Bolden, CEO of Define Bold Fitness, to discuss her inspiring journey from a Division One basketball player to a successful fitness entrepreneur. Dayna's story emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and embracing unexpected paths to success. The episode also delves into the rise of influencer careers and the challenges faced along the way. Dayna takes the opportunity to promote her fitness brand, Define Bold Fitness, and kindly asks for support. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and be inspired by Dayna's incredible journey.- Dayna's journey from basketball player to fitness brand CEO- Emphasizing the importance of following passion and unexpected paths to success- The rise of influencer careers and the importance of genuine impact- Building a successful brand and launching a collection- Taking risks and pursuing passion as a full-time influencerNotable QuotesI believe that the important thing is that we stay true to our values.Keywordsrelevant keywords, How I Got Here podcast, interview, Dayna Bolden, CEO, Define Bold Fitness, Division One basketball player, fitness brand, passion, unexpected paths to success, the rise of influencer careers, challenges, genuine impact, support, Drena Whitfield, multi-talented blogger, entrepreneur, influencer, self-care, self-love, empowerment, women worldwide, New York, Under Armour, marketing, athletic company, climbing the corporate ladder, influencer career, change agent, inspiring people, purpose, genuine impact, children's book, personal brand, content creation, documenting, a new collection, leggings, sports bra, zip-up jacket, retail, team, bulk content creation, documenting, growth, impact, community, social media, Define Bold Fitness.Connect with Dayna on....Instagram: @daynaboldenWebsite: www.daynabolden.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," 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 another inspiring episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield! In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the importance of community support for black businesses and entrepreneurs and the urgent need for a shift in consciousness within the black community.Join us as Dreena Whitfield sits down with the remarkable Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, the visionary CEO of the Village Market. Dr. Hallmon's social enterprise not only supports black businesses but also promotes cultural awareness, making her the perfect guest for this enlightening discussion.Prepare to be inspired as Dr. Hallmon shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey and unwavering vision for the Village Market. From her high school yearbook prediction of owning multiple small businesses and traveling extensively to the reality of making it happen, Dr. Hallmon's story will leave you in awe.But that's not all! In this episode, Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon takes the mic to discuss her experience of moving to Atlanta and building her own brand. She reveals how Atlanta's vibrant arts and culture scene inspired her to become an entrepreneur and the challenges she faced along the way.We'll also explore the transition from education to entrepreneurship, as Dr. Hallmon highlights the importance of economic development and upward mobility within black communities. Her journey from a one-person operation to the thriving Village Market will leave you motivated and ready to take on the world.But wait, there's more! Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon will also share invaluable insights into starting a business, advocating for entrepreneurs, and the unapologetic value that black people bring to society. Her powerful words will resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and community advocates alike.So, if you're ready to embrace the power of community support and witness the transformative shift in consciousness within the black community, don't miss this extraordinary episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield.Tune in now and be part of the movement that empowers black entrepreneurs and showcases their incredible products. Remember, when black people are empowered, every community prospers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired and make a difference.- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey as an entrepreneur and vision for the Village Market- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's experience of moving to Atlanta and building their brand- Importance of authentic self-expression and surrounding oneself with genuine individuals in Atlanta's entrepreneurial spirit- Transition from education to entrepreneurship and the importance of small businesses in lifting communities out of poverty- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey in starting a business and advocating for entrepreneurs- Overcoming self-doubt as an entrepreneur and embracing the privilege- Importance of supporting small black businesses and excellence in supporting black entrepreneurs- Support as a verb and the significance of support in entrepreneurship- Importance of finding and surrounding oneself with supportive and like-minded individuals- Our Village United and the Elevate program for Black businesses- Expansion of the Elevated Cities program nationally- Importance of community support and conscious support for the black community- Shift in consciousness and consistent support for black businesses and individuals Introduction with Dreena Whitfield [00:00:00] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about being a classroom teacher and her dedication to her students [00:07:31] Dr. Key Hallmon discusses the stress and challenges of being an entrepreneur [00:10:02] Dr. Key Hallmon shares her perspective on affirming oneself and being unapologetically for her people [00:13:06] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about the importance of having a vision and expanding beyond one's... 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

Join me, Dreena Whitfield, on the latest episode of How I Got Here as I sit down with Mimi Brown, a journalist, TV personality, and show producer, to discuss her journey in the media and entertainment industry, and her upcoming projects. In this episode, Mimi shares her experience growing up as the only black girl in her classes in Alaska and her journey from being an assistant to Omarosa to becoming a red carpet reporter for Us Weekly and eventually landing a job at Fox LA. We emphasize the importance of networking and hard work in the industry, and Mimi highlights the significance of being versatile and prepared in the newsroom. We also dive into the changing media landscape and the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the industry. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with one of the industry's most dynamic women. Tune in to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield and follow Mimi Brown TV on social media for more updates on her upcoming projects.- Mimi's journey in media/entertainment- Growing up black in Anchorage, Alaska- Discovering industry after leaving Alaska- Networking in the industry- Hard work and preparation in journalism- Highlighting underrepresented voices- Hosting "Culture Conversations"- Importance of being versatile in newsroom- Importance of newswriting skills- Changing media landscape- Voices in the media- Staying current and relevant- Mimi's upcoming projects and goals Introduction [00:00:26] Relationship with Amarosa [00:08:34] Transition to media industry [00:09:10] Becoming media personality [00:10:33] Attracted to free swag [00:13:16] Transitioning from producer to host [00:23:58] Learning different facets of production [00:24:07] Paper planning vs digital planning [00:30:49] Shifts in media consumption and industry landscape [00:31:08]Connect with Mimi on....Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimibrowntv/Website: https://mimibrown.tv/ 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

Welcome to How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield. In today's episode, we explore the journey of Fatou Barry, founder of the PR Girl Manifesto and co-founder of Hold the Press. Barry's mission is to create a safe space for communications professionals, especially young black women struggling with staying in the PR industry. She believes in the importance of representation and diversity in the field, and her advocacy group, Hold the Press, is committed to improving just that.Barry's story is about perseverance and finding her happy medium in the communications department. Working in the communication space while an undergrad, Barry quickly learned the value of working independently and being an all-hands-on-deck team player. This eventually led to her founding the PR Girl Manifesto, which has grown to over 40,000 followers. If you want to join a community of communications professionals, look no further than the PR Girl Manifesto's website. So tune in, listen to Barry's inspiring journey, and learn the importance of representation, diversity, and advocacy in the PR industry.- Fatou Barry: Founder of PR Girl Manifesto and Hold the Press- High school dream of fashion PR- Found a happy medium in communications- First job at a French-owned denim brand- PR Girl Manifesto launched in 2014- Nonprofit creates safe space for comms professionals- Hold the Press advocates for diversity in the PR industry- Joy in influencing change- Community front and center for growth- Encourage flexibility and exploration in the industry- Find and follow at PR Girl Manifesto website Introduction [00:00:40] Praise for Speaker 1 [00:00:56] Importance of representation [00:01:00] Gaining confidence as a communication specialist [00:09:29] Unique aspect of Whip PR [00:09:33] Small team and transition to a nonprofit [00:27:00] Black PR professionals jumping through hoops [00:33:31] Using black PR professionals to get black business [00:33:55] Passion for supporting the next generation [00:36:17] Importance of personal and professional development and relatable content [00:39:08] 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

We’re kicking off season three of How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield with Trina Small, founder, and CEO of Supermom Culture.Trina dreamed up the idea for Supermom Culture when clothing brands didn’t speak to moms of all kinds — single, divorced, of all ages and abilities. So her brand celebrates the moms who get it all done, even when sh*t hits the fan.When she got a call from Good Morning America to appear on the show and sell 10,000 units, she was still producing each shirt from the guest bedroom in her house. The pandemic dried up the t-shirt supply chain, and she’d never scaled her business to that production level. Still, Trina knew she was going to figure it out. Listen as Trina tells us how her previous career path helped her navigate her apparel business, why social media has been key to the success of Supermom Culture, and how the community of Supermoms has been key to bringing the brand to the next level.Connect with Trina on…Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heytrinasmallFollow Supermom Culture on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supermomculture/?hl=en Get your Supermom on: https://supermomculture.com/ About the Host:Dreena Whitfield has a proven ability to create tangible outcomes that help clients exceed expectations. Her diverse career has led her to spearhead the communications and marketing efforts for leaders in the nonprofit, corporate, and political sectors and small businesses internationally.With more than a decade of experience, Dreena and the WhitPR team have a proven ability to spot opportunities for our clients to grow their brand recognition in saturated markets that align with their overall objectives. The Huffington Post named Dreena as one of their “Top 25 African American Millennials in PR to Watch.”Follow Dreena, WhitPR, and the show on all the socials:@dreenawhitpr, @whitpr & @howigothere_Join The WhitPR Collective: www.whitprcollective.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

In this episode of How I Got Here, Dreena welcomes Shelby Larkin-Reid, an Emmy-nominated television producer and entertainment executive with over 20 years of production experience in non-scripted content. Shelby is also the Director of Global Partnership Development at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park.  Starting as a high school intern at her local CBS affiliate in Nashville, TN, Shelby grew to become an associate producer by the age of 23. After realizing that majoring and working in economics wasn’t the path for her, she was driven to revisit her passion of television production. Listen in as she tells the story of how she became the confident, powerful, Black female producer she is today while sharing expert advice for those of you who want to follow a similar career path in entertainment.“It’s so important to know… what sort of environment you thrive in. If you don’t thrive in that type of environment, it’s definitely not the place for you.”-  Shelby Larkin-ReidYou’ll hear about the impacts going to Spelman College in Atlanta had on Shelby’s career trajectory and how she dealt with her family’s disapproval of her career choice, as well as how branded content and brand partnerships are developed. Plus, she describes what a day in her life looks like as the Director of SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park! “When you start and you go with the passion, your career will grow exponentially.”-  Shelby Larkin-ReidConnect with Shelby:Connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelbylarkinreid Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamshelbyrenee Resources Mentioned:SoFi Stadium: https://www.sofistadium.com About the Host:Dreena Whitfield has a proven ability to create tangible outcomes that helps clients exceed expectations. Her diverse career has led her to spearhead the communications and marketing efforts for leaders in the nonprofit, corporate and political sectors, as well as small businesses internationally.With more than a decade of experience, Dreena and the WhitPR team have a proven ability to spot opportunities for our clients to grow their brand recognition in saturated markets that are in alignment with their overall objectives.The Huffington Post listed Dreena as one of their “Top 25 African American Millennials in PR to Watch.”Follow Dreena & WhitPR on all the socials:@Dreenawhitpr & @whitprJoin The WhitPR Collective: www.whitprcollective.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

Have you ever thought of buying a one way ticket to follow your dreams? Just like today’s guest, that could be the move that launches your career to new heights! In this episode of How I Got Here, Dreena welcomes Sandra Lajoie, the Vice President of Communications at NBC, Bravo, and Oxygen. If you love reality TV shows, Sandra is most likely the powerhouse behind your all-time favorites. As an immigrant from Port Au Prince, Haiti, who grew up in New York and Massachusetts, Sandra sheds light on the impacts of the devastating accident that left her blind in one eye and caused her family to immigrate to the US. She talks about what The American Dream means to her and her family, the challenges she went through as a young girl, and how that led to her building a successful career in communications and media relations.“Where I started is definitely not where I ended. I think that’s a lesson in life in itself because it is okay pivot, it is okay to change directions, but you have to listen to your spirit and know what’s right for you and what isn’t.”-  Sandra LajoieYou’ll gain insight into Sandra’s experience as a temp worker, how she got promoted from executive assistant to publicist at Warner Bros., and her top recommendations for people who want to break into the communications industry (+ tips for growing and learning FAST!).Plus… What does a day in the life of Sandra Lajoie, the VP of Communications, look like? How many fires did she have to put out while working with The Real Housewives? What role does social media play in a strong PR strategy? Tune in to find out!“If you’re going to go after your dreams, don’t go in with a Plan B, go in with a Plan A and stick to the Plan A.”-  Sandra LajoieConnect with Sandra:Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lajoiesandra Connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-lajoie-9b429214 About the Host:Dreena Whitfield has a proven ability to create tangible outcomes that helps clients exceed expectations. Her diverse career has led her to spearhead the communications and marketing efforts for leaders in the nonprofit, corporate and political sectors, as well as small businesses internationally.With more than a decade of experience, Dreena and the WhitPR team have a proven ability to spot opportunities for our clients to grow their brand recognition in saturated markets that are in alignment with their overall objectives.The Huffington Post listed Dreena as one of their “Top 25 African American Millennials in PR to Watch.”Follow Dreena & WhitPR on all the socials:@Dreenawhitpr & @whitprJoin The WhitPR Collective: www.whitprcollective.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

What is it like to work alongside President Obama in The White House, you ask? Tune in to find out! In this episode of How I Got Here, Dreena welcomes Stephanie L. Young, a Social Impact Strategist and Executive Director of When We All Vote, a non-partisan voting initiative created by Michelle Obama. Stephanie is on a mission is to change the culture of voting and to increase participation in each and every election to close the race and age gaps among voters. From The White House to NBC Universal to BET Networks, Stephanie has succeeded in various communications roles for the past 12 years. Listen in a she sheds light on the most pivotal moments in her career, how she started working on political campaigns, what it’s been like to be a Black woman in politics.“You can be a 20-something year old person and go work on a campaign. They are consistently looking for good talent, you just gotta know somebody... I just thought I didn’t have any experience but that’s what campaigns love, they love people with no experience to come on and do a lot of work.”-  Stephanie YoungYou’ll gain insight into Stephanie’s experience working for the Obama Administration, how she maintains a work/life balance in her political communications career, and what empowers and fuels her to continue building her career despite the challenges of this field. She emphasizes the importance of taking risks in your career, trusting yourself, and diversifying your work experience. Plus, Stephanie shares exciting details on the upcoming Culture of Democracy Summit in June!Connect with Stephanie & When We All Vote:Visit her website: www.stephlyoung.comFollow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/slynnyoung Follow her on Twitter: www.twitter.com/stephlyoung Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/slynnyoung Visit When We All Vote’s website: www.whenweallvote.org Follow When We All Vote on Instagram: www.instagram.com/whenweallvoteFollow When We All Vote on Twitter: www.twitter.com/whenweallvote Connect with When We All Vote on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenWeAllVote Resources Mentioned:Rock the Vote: www.rockthevote.orgLearn more about Couch Party: https://bit.ly/39rinvl Join The Culture of Democracy Summit (June 10-13, 2022): https://secure.everyaction.com/tkNJo3vpnEiKhR58s69N6Q2 About the Host:Dreena Whitfield has a proven ability to create tangible outcomes that helps clients exceed expectations. Her diverse career has led her to spearhead the communications and marketing efforts for leaders in the nonprofit, corporate and political sectors, as well as small businesses internationally.With more than a decade of experience, Dreena and the WhitPR team have a proven ability to spot opportunities for our clients to grow their brand recognition in saturated markets that are in alignment with their overall objectives.The Huffington Post listed Dreena as one of their “Top 25 African American Millennials in PR to Watch.”Follow Dreena & WhitPR on all the socials:@Dreenawhitpr & @whitprJoin The WhitPR Collective: www.whitprcollective.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

In this TalkBack, Dreena talks about her experiences with disappointments along her career journey and how she got through, past and over them. Dreena is transparent about where she still struggles and provides tips how to survive disappointments on the road to success.  Link to full episode:https://pdcn.co/e/www.buzzsprout.com/1560203/9401011-glowing-up-from-fox-news-to-black-love-with-codie-elaine.mp3?download=true About the Host:Dreena Whitfield has a proven ability to create tangible outcomes that helps clients exceed expectations. Her diverse career has led her to spearhead the communications and marketing efforts for leaders in the nonprofit, corporate and political sectors, as well as small businesses internationally.With more than a decade of experience, Dreena and the WhitPR team have a proven ability to spot opportunities for our clients to grow their brand recognition in saturated markets that are in alignment with their overall objectives.The Huffington Post listed Dreena as one of their “Top 25 African American Millennials in PR to Watch.”Follow Dreena & WhitPR on all the socials:@Dreenawhitpr & @whitprJoin The WhitPR Collective: www.thewhitprcollective.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