Welcome to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast – your go-to source for empowering stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, creators, and community leaders worldwide. Hosted by Taryell Simmons, an entrepreneur and renowned advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, alongside Adesola Akindele, an economic strategist, serial entrepreneur, and mentor dedicated to fostering growth and self-sufficiency. With experience from top industry names like Google and Techstars, Taryell and Adesola have helped countless individuals transition from jobs to thriving businesses.
Each episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast dives into real-life journeys of Black innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who are making an impact. Through insightful, culturally relevant conversations, you’ll gain actionable advice and learn step-by-step strategies to help build, market, and monetize your ideas. This podcast is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking to connect with and learn from the best in the Black and Pan-African community.
If you’re ready to gain confidence, inspiration, and practical tools to RISE in your business journey, subscribe to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast today. Every episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate your entrepreneurial path with a community-focused approach.
Key Features:
-Empowering Stories: Hear from Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, artists, and community activists.
-Expert Guidance: Taryell and Adesola bring years of experience to help you grow your business.
-Actionable Insights: Get practical tips to turn your vision into reality, from idea to monetization.
Join the movement to unite, empower, and ignite your entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe now and let’s rise together! 🔥
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Welcome to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast – your go-to source for empowering stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, creators, and community leaders worldwide. Hosted by Taryell Simmons, an entrepreneur and renowned advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, alongside Adesola Akindele, an economic strategist, serial entrepreneur, and mentor dedicated to fostering growth and self-sufficiency. With experience from top industry names like Google and Techstars, Taryell and Adesola have helped countless individuals transition from jobs to thriving businesses.
Each episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast dives into real-life journeys of Black innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who are making an impact. Through insightful, culturally relevant conversations, you’ll gain actionable advice and learn step-by-step strategies to help build, market, and monetize your ideas. This podcast is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking to connect with and learn from the best in the Black and Pan-African community.
If you’re ready to gain confidence, inspiration, and practical tools to RISE in your business journey, subscribe to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast today. Every episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate your entrepreneurial path with a community-focused approach.
Key Features:
-Empowering Stories: Hear from Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, artists, and community activists.
-Expert Guidance: Taryell and Adesola bring years of experience to help you grow your business.
-Actionable Insights: Get practical tips to turn your vision into reality, from idea to monetization.
Join the movement to unite, empower, and ignite your entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe now and let’s rise together! 🔥
What if fear wasn’t something to fight—but something to understand? In this empowering episode, Taryell Simmons sits down with Nicholas Dillon, award-winning speaker, executive coach, and founder of Believe Wellness Center, to explore the “sexy side of fear.” Discover how to transform fear into fuel, the mindset shifts that lead to lasting success, and the tools Nicholas uses to help leaders and entrepreneurs thrive emotionally and professionally. Tune in for wisdom, strategies, and the reminder that fear is just the beginning of your breakthrough.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Dasean, a commercial real estate developer, and Collins, community strategist and co-creator of Experience Encanto—a two-day art stroll and artisan market that’s rewriting the narrative in Southeast San Diego. Brooke shares the origin story of the event, the challenges she overcame, and the wins that reminded her why this work matters. Learn how this grassroots movement is empowering Black and Brown creatives, healing through culture, and planting economic seeds in historically underinvested neighborhoods.
Tune in and get inspired to launch your own story-driven movement.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons interviews Hope Wiseman, the youngest Black woman to own a cannabis dispensary in the U.S. Hope shares her groundbreaking journey of launching Mary & Main, navigating the challenges of regulated industries, and empowering Black and brown founders through her platform, Legal and Licensed. With insights on mindset, resilience, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring and emerging leaders who want to build with intention and leave a legacy.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, we welcome keynote speaker, travel creator, and startup growth strategist Patrika Alis Cheston. From microaggressions in tech to building a brand that empowers others, Patrika shares how she took ownership of her career journey. Tune in for powerful insights on personal growth, brand building, resilience, and thriving as a Black woman in tech and entrepreneurship.
What does it take to transform pain into purpose—and purpose into a movement?
In this soul-stirring episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons welcomes Garnett Rogers Sr., acclaimed spoken word poet, author of The Transition, and founder of Hussle Hard Publishing. Born in Sacramento and raised with grit, Garnett shares how he overcame life’s trials and evolved into a modern-day John the Baptist—delivering poetic sermons of hope, healing, and divine purpose.
Tune in to hear how Garnett’s faith, storytelling, and raw vulnerability created a platform that now influences the masses. Whether you’re navigating grief, building your creative empire, or seeking spiritual direction, Garnett’s journey offers a powerful blueprint for turning adversity into art—and art into action.
🔥 Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about resilience, publishing, spiritual growth, and Black entrepreneurship in the creative space.
What’s the biggest mistake Black entrepreneurs make when launching their brand? In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Taalib Saber, a leading attorney, FIFA sports agent, and community advocate, to unpack the legal foundations every business owner needs. From business formation and contract tips to the power of Pan-African advocacy and creative storytelling—Taalib shares how to build, protect, and empower your legacy.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with the multihyphenate mogul Thomas Howard, aka DJ Doc. From military service to music and podcasting, Doc shares his incredible journey of resilience, reinvention, and rising through service. Discover how podcasting became his secret weapon for scaling businesses and why helping others has always been his north star. You’ll also hear about his companies Yemayá Organic, Deep Soul Sound Productions, and R.O.C. Media. If you're looking for a dose of strategy, soul, and sound business insight—this one’s for you.
From epic gaming playthroughs to building a loyal online community, Tylan Witherspoon shares his journey of becoming a paid content creator. In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons chats with Tylan about the real-life challenges of growing a brand on YouTube, building community, navigating algorithms, and staying authentic in a competitive digital space. Learn how Tylan stayed resilient, the tools that helped him succeed, and his advice for aspiring Black content creators looking to make their mark.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Kelli Lester, Co-founder of Onyx Rising, to discuss the power of inclusive leadership. From navigating workplace shifts to fostering environments that empower employees, Kelli shares insights on creating lasting organizational impact. Learn seven traits of inclusive leaders, strategies for managing change, and how intentional inclusion fuels innovation.
What truly separates thriving beauty brands from those that barely break even? In this power-packed episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Anthony Standifer, co-founder of mSEED Group, to uncover the hidden blueprint behind beauty brand success. With decades of experience in product manufacturing, brand positioning, and growth strategy, Anthony shares how small businesses can scale without compromising quality.
Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to take your beauty business to the next level, Anthony drops actionable gems on everything from retail partnerships to funding solutions and avoiding common pitfalls.
What if the key to pain relief was in your hands—literally? In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Dr. Njideka N. Olatunde, a Master Reflexologist and holistic pain relief advocate, to discuss the transformative power of Reflexology-Touchology™. Learn how she’s helped thousands of chronic pain sufferers break free from medication, the barriers she’s overcome, and how wellness and entrepreneurship can coexist.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with filmmaker and storyteller Tanisha Cardwell. Tanisha shares her journey from event coordination to becoming an independent filmmaker, the challenges she faced breaking into the industry, and how she’s using storytelling to connect audiences to meaningful missions. Get inspired by her strategies for success, impactful projects, and advice for aspiring Black and Pan-African creatives.
In this powerful episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Dr. Kimberly Walker—psychiatrist, Rapid Transformational Therapy® (RTT) practitioner, and empowerment coach—to explore her courageous pivot from burnout to breakthrough.
With over 30 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Walker shares how years of microaggressions and hidden emotional blocks eventually led to a profound moment of reckoning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her discovery of RTT helped her identify and overcome the unconscious limiting beliefs that had silently shaped her path. Now, she’s using that same methodology to support high-achieving women of color in unlocking their fullest potential.
Tune in for actionable insights on navigating burnout, reclaiming self-worth, and transforming your mindset so you can live Unblocked & Unbound™.
In this powerful episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Dr. Kimberly Walker—psychiatrist, Rapid Transformational Therapy® (RTT) practitioner, and empowerment coach—to explore her courageous pivot from burnout to breakthrough.
With over 30 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Walker shares how years of microaggressions and hidden emotional blocks eventually led to a profound moment of reckoning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her discovery of RTT helped her identify and overcome the unconscious limiting beliefs that had silently shaped her path. Now, she’s using that same methodology to support high-achieving women of color in unlocking their fullest potential.
Tune in for actionable insights on navigating burnout, reclaiming self-worth, and transforming your mindset so you can live Unblocked & Unbound™.
What does it truly mean to lead with purpose in today’s world? In this compelling episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons is joined by Leroy Roberts—Caribbean-born author, speaker, and global leadership strategist—who shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming a thought leader and changemaker.
From building high-performing teams to advocating for financial inclusion and empowering underserved communities, Leroy breaks down the lessons he’s learned through decades of cross-sector experience. You’ll learn how storytelling fosters connection, why mentorship is a game-changer, and how representation can redefine leadership in the Black and Pan-African diaspora.
Whether you’re leading a company, a community, or yourself, this episode offers actionable strategies and soulful reflections to help you lead with vision, authenticity, and heart.
What does it truly mean to lead with purpose in today’s world? In this compelling episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons is joined by Leroy Roberts—Caribbean-born author, speaker, and global leadership strategist—who shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming a thought leader and changemaker.
From building high-performing teams to advocating for financial inclusion and empowering underserved communities, Leroy breaks down the lessons he’s learned through decades of cross-sector experience. You’ll learn how storytelling fosters connection, why mentorship is a game-changer, and how representation can redefine leadership in the Black and Pan-African diaspora.
Whether you’re leading a company, a community, or yourself, this episode offers actionable strategies and soulful reflections to help you lead with vision, authenticity, and heart.
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Dr. Pamela Buchanan—physician, TEDx speaker, and mental health advocate—shares her inspiring journey of overcoming burnout, autoimmune challenges, and systemic pressures. Dr. Buchanan dives into the importance of self-care for entrepreneurs, especially Black women, and explains how prioritizing wellness boosts capacity, reduces burnout, and even increases profitability. Discover actionable strategies for building a sustainable, healthy lifestyle while navigating entrepreneurship and leadership
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Dr. Pamela Buchanan—physician, TEDx speaker, and mental health advocate—shares her inspiring journey of overcoming burnout, autoimmune challenges, and systemic pressures. Dr. Buchanan dives into the importance of self-care for entrepreneurs, especially Black women, and explains how prioritizing wellness boosts capacity, reduces burnout, and even increases profitability. Discover actionable strategies for building a sustainable, healthy lifestyle while navigating entrepreneurship and leadership.
What does it mean to be truly fearless in pursuing your dreams? In this powerful episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Kenyan-born fashion creative Haze Baraza, founder of Styled by Haze B and Haus of Baraza. Haze shares her journey from childhood dreams of being a designer to building an empowering brand that helps people slay with confidence, style, and self-love. She dives deep into overcoming self-doubt, navigating the fashion industry, and living a life of abundance and authenticity. Tune in as we discuss resilience, representation, and the power of embracing who you are.
Welcome to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast – your go-to source for empowering stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, creators, and community leaders worldwide. Hosted by Taryell Simmons, an entrepreneur and renowned advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, alongside Adesola Akindele, an economic strategist, serial entrepreneur, and mentor dedicated to fostering growth and self-sufficiency. With experience from top industry names like Google and Techstars, Taryell and Adesola have helped countless individuals transition from jobs to thriving businesses.
Each episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast dives into real-life journeys of Black innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who are making an impact. Through insightful, culturally relevant conversations, you’ll gain actionable advice and learn step-by-step strategies to help build, market, and monetize your ideas. This podcast is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking to connect with and learn from the best in the Black and Pan-African community.
If you’re ready to gain confidence, inspiration, and practical tools to RISE in your business journey, subscribe to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast today. Every episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate your entrepreneurial path with a community-focused approach.
Key Features:
-Empowering Stories: Hear from Black and Pan-African entrepreneurs, artists, and community activists.
-Expert Guidance: Taryell and Adesola bring years of experience to help you grow your business.
-Actionable Insights: Get practical tips to turn your vision into reality, from idea to monetization.
Join the movement to unite, empower, and ignite your entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe now and let’s rise together! 🔥
