Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray

Nathan Cox has built an impressive family of businesses along the Gulf Coast as founder and chairman of 68 Ventures, but he’s quick to credit the people around him for that success. This week on Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray, Nathan joins Dani and Chelsey for a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, and what it really means to “Bet on You.” He shares why he surrounds himself with people who aren’t afraid to challenge him, reflects on the demands of building successful businesses, and talks about the importance of having the right team in place. Plus, we get a look at his upcoming Chasing Greatness event, returning to Mobile in January, and how it encourages people to invest in their own personal and professional growth.

What does it take to turn artistic talent into a successful business, especially when your creations can take months or even years to bring to life? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray, Dani Dials sits down with internationally renowned sculptor Benjamin Victor, whose work includes four sculptures in the U.S. Capitol's National Statuary Hall. Benjamin takes us behind the scenes of his creative process, from the initial vision to the intricate work of transforming an idea into a bronze sculpture. He also shares the entrepreneurial side of his career, including the business decisions, investments, and challenges involved in making a living as an artist. And of course, we talk about his life-size Jimmy Buffett sculpture, created for the National Maritime Museum in Mobile, Alabama, and what went into capturing the spirit of such a beloved musician. Whether you're an artist, an entrepreneur, or simply curious about the stories behind remarkable works of art, this episode offers a fascinating look at what happens when creativity becomes a career. Tune in for a conversation about the art of sculpting and the business of bringing a vision to life!  To explore more of Benjamin's incredible work or inquire about commissioning a sculpture of your own, visit https://benjaminvictor.com/

Access to funding can be one of the biggest challenges for someone starting a business, growing an existing one, or purchasing their first home. But what if some of the things you believe about qualifying for a loan aren't necessarily true? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray, Dani Dials sits down with LaWanda Jones from Renaissance Community Loan Fund (RCLF) to talk about helping entrepreneurs and first-time homebuyers access financing. The conversation explores some common misconceptions about qualifying for loans, the challenges that can keep people from pursuing financing, and how RCLF works with borrowers who may need a different path than traditional lending. If you've been thinking about starting a business, need funding to grow, or dream of owning your first home, this is a conversation worth hearing. You may have more options than you realize, and understanding what's available could change your next step. Tune in to learn what you need to know before ruling yourself out! To learn more about business loans, home loans and resources offered through RCLF, visit: https://www.rclfms.com/

Chambers of Commerce do a lot more than ribbon cuttings and networking events. At their best, they help create communities where businesses and the people behind them can thrive. In this episode of Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray, Dani Dials and Chelsey Sayasane sit down with North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kristina Pittman and Shane Hadley, owner of Baldwin Gulf Coast Pest Control. Kristina shares what goes into leading a Chamber and why supporting local businesses, creating community experiences and improving quality of life are all connected. Shane offers the perspective of an entrepreneur who has been involved with the Chamber for more than a decade and shares how his idea for "Dragons on the Delta" grew into a new community event. It’s a conversation about what can happen when business owners get involved, bring their ideas to the table and work together to build a stronger community. Learn more about North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce: https://northbaldwinchamber.com/

There’s more to recovery after breast cancer treatment than many people realize, and returning to exercise can be part of that journey. In this episode of Entrepreneurial Shades of Gray, Dani Dials and Chelsey Sayasane welcome back Rita-Nicole Wright, owner of Beyond Group Fitness in Saraland, for another pink-inspired conversation. Rita talks about working with breast cancer survivors as they return to fitness, some of the things trainers need to consider after surgery and treatment, and how she helps women safely rebuild strength and confidence. The conversation also catches up on what’s new at Beyond, including Rita’s recent addition of reformer Pilates, and her upcoming Pilates at the Bragg event on October 5th. It’s a conversation about fitness after treatment, meeting people where they are, and what it can look like to move forward stronger. Learn more about Beyond Group Fitness: https://beyondgroupfitness.com/