What Up Doe?! In this special crossover episode between Black Fridays Podcast and Thanks But No One Asked You, hosts Denzell Turner and Britt Hunter sit down with Blake Stoner, founder and CEO of Vngle — a civic insights company on a mission to revolutionize local news. Based in Atlanta, Vngle trains everyday citizens to become verified community reporters, ensuring that real stories from underrepresented neighborhoods are told with accuracy, authenticity, and heart. Blake discusses how his family’s deep history in civil rights inspired his commitment to media equity, how the 2014 Ferguson uprising shaped the creation of Vngle, and why the future of journalism depends on collaboration between communities and technology. He also gives insight into Atlanta’s South Downtown revitalization project and his work building one of America’s next great innovation districts. We’re talking How Vngle empowers communities to share real stories and combat misinformation The evolution of local journalism and the rise of “news deserts” Why civic engagement and entrepreneurship go hand-in-hand The vision for Atlanta’s South Downtown as a tech and cultural hub How storytelling can rebuild trust between people and media This episode dives deep into what it means to build technology with purpose — and why democratizing storytelling is key to shaping the future of cities, culture, and connection. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/vnglestories/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachbhunt_/ Guest Website: https://vngle.com/ Guest Website: https://betheexceptioncoaching.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we sit down with Brittini Ward, Detroit-based poet, designer, and founder of Eye N Eye LLC, a storytelling platform that fuses creativity, healing, and community. Through her work as a multifaceted storyteller, Brittini uses poetry, visual art, and design to help others express their truths and preserve their stories through meaningful mediums. In this conversation, Brittini shares how she discovered her identity as a storyteller, the evolution of Eye N Eye, and the spiritual and creative process behind her latest exhibit, Many Tongues. She opens up about the discipline and patience behind being a creative entrepreneur, how human design influences her workflow, and why collaboration is essential to authentic storytelling. We’re talking * How Eye N Eye helps creatives bring stories to life through art, design, and performance * The spiritual power of patience and alignment in creativity * The inspiration and process behind Brittini’s Many Tongues exhibit * Lessons in business, purpose, and charging your worth as an artist * Why storytelling is a sacred act of community preservation Tap in for an inspiring, soulful conversation about art, identity, and the power of stories to connect, heal, and transform communities. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ 
Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/eyeneyellc/ Guest Website: https://www.eyeneyellc.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we move to the rhythm of culture, history, and healing with Ajara, founder and director of TeMaTe Dance Institute, a Detroit-based organization preserving and teaching traditional West African dance and drumming. What started as a personal passion has grown into a cultural movement that empowers youth, connects generations, and celebrates the beauty of African heritage through performance and education. In this conversation, Ajara shares how dance became her voice, her mission to make the arts accessible to everyone, and the importance of keeping cultural traditions alive in modern Detroit. She discusses how TeMaTe serves as both a creative space and a cultural bridge—bringing people together to celebrate movement, mindfulness, and meaning. We’re talking: * How TeMaTe Dance Institute is preserving African dance traditions in Detroit * Making arts education accessible to every body and every background * How dance connects generations and communities * Why cultural preservation is key to Detroit’s creative future Tap in for a soulful, movement-filled conversation that celebrates culture, connection, and the transformative power of dance. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/tematedance Guest Website: https://www.tematedance.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we tee up with Jason Malone of College Careers and Beyond (formerly The Midnight Golf Program) and Trey Zachary of Trill Golf, two trailblazers using golf to build community, opportunity, and culture in Detroit. From empowering thousands of young people to pursue college success to redefining golf as a space for everyone, both leaders are proving that the game is much bigger than the sport itself. Jason shares how his mother’s vision for The Midnight Golf Program grew from 17 students in Detroit’s Jeffries Projects into a national model of mentorship and education that’s helped nearly 4,000 students reach 165 colleges across the country. Trey breaks down how Trill Golf is reimagining what golf looks like — making it cool, accessible, and inclusive for a new generation through community events and partnerships like their recent collaboration with Detroit Vs Everybody. We’re talking How Midnight Golf is changing lives through mentorship and college success How Trill Golf is building a culture of inclusion and community through the game What golf teaches about life, business, and leadership The growing influence of Black culture and entrepreneurship in golf Tap in for a conversation that celebrates legacy, innovation, and the power of using golf as a vehicle for purpose and progress. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/midnightgolfdet_ccb/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/trillgolf/ Guest Website: https://collegecareerbeyond.org/ Guest Website: https://trillgolfbrand.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we sit down with Denzel McCampbell, a Detroit native, lifelong community advocate, and candidate for Detroit City Council District 7. From his work with Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib to his leadership as a Detroit Charter Revision Commissioner, Denzel has dedicated his career to amplifying community voices and fighting for transparency in government. In this episode, he shares why he’s running for City Council, his vision for a more equitable Detroit, and how his lived experiences shape his approach to leadership. We’re talking: * Why Denzel chose to run for Detroit City Council District 7 * His grassroots approach to politics and commitment to rejecting corporate donations * The importance of investing in Detroit’s neighborhoods, not just downtown * How he plans to bring jobs, mentorship, and resources directly to residents * His vision for a more transparent, community-driven government Tap in for an inspiring and grounded conversation about civic duty, neighborhood empowerment, and the future of leadership in Detroit. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/denzmccampbell Guest Website: https://denzelfordetroit.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we sit down with Lauren Stovall, brand strategist, creative entrepreneur, and self-described “Legacy Preserver” at Hot Sam’s Detroit — the city’s oldest men’s clothier, founded in 1921. For over a century, Hot Sam’s has been more than a store; it’s been a cultural institution where Detroiters have marked life’s biggest moments — from first suits and prom nights to weddings and beyond. Lauren shares her journey stepping into the family business, what it means to carry forward a 104-year-old legacy, and how she’s helping the brand evolve for future generations. With a focus on blending tradition and innovation, Lauren is showing what it means to honor heritage while embracing the creativity needed to keep a business thriving in today’s market. We’re talking: How Hot Sam’s became a cornerstone of Detroit style and culture What it means to be a “Legacy Preserver” in a family-owned business Balancing heritage with fresh ideas to stay relevant after 100+ years The role of fashion as a community connector in Detroit Lauren’s vision for sustaining Hot Sam’s for the next century Tap in for a conversation about legacy, creativity, and keeping Detroit’s stories stitched into the fabric of its future. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/hotsamsdetroit/ Guest Website: https://hotsamsdetroit.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re back in Detroit and sitting inside the Social Media Store, the brainchild of Robert Courtney Collins — entrepreneur, agency founder, and visionary behind Robert Courtney & Associates, CreatorCon, and now a bold new space redefining how creators and business owners access resources. Robert breaks down the vision for the Social Media Store, why timing delays actually helped him refine the concept, and how it’s built to solve real challenges faced by entrepreneurs and creators: access, affordability, and community. We also dive into his lessons from building one of Michigan’s premier social media agencies, launching CreatorCon, and why patience, persistence, and authenticity are the keys to long-term success in the creator economy. We’re talking: The Social Media Store: Why this concept could change the game for entrepreneurs and creators Lessons on patience, community, and creating opportunities instead of waiting for them The difference between a creator, a creative, and an influencer — and why it matters in 2025 Turning passion into profit without losing joy The future of CreatorCon and how it’s shaping conversations around business and creativity Tap in for an honest, forward-looking conversation with one of Detroit’s sharpest minds in social media, business, and branding. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Dedicated Desks: email malika@bamboocowork.com or visit https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/RobertCourtneyCollins/ Guest Website: https://creatorcondetroit.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re on location in Atlanta at the Fanbase headquarters, the Black-owned social media platform founded by Isaac Hayes III. I’m joined by two dynamic voices in leadership and innovation: Britt Hunter, a former Division I basketball star turned leadership coach and host of the podcast Thanks But No One Asked You, and Regnault Sanders, founder of Schoolconomy, an edtech platform gamifying education by rewarding students for academic achievement and wellness. We’re talking: Britt’s journey from athletics to leadership coaching and launching a podcast built on honesty and purpose How Regnault is reshaping education with Schoolconomy and empowering students through tech innovation The power of networking, partnerships, and persistence in scaling ideas from vision to impact Why Atlanta is becoming a hub for Black tech founders and entrepreneurs Tap in for a high-energy, purpose-driven conversation about building, leading, and creating platforms that speak to culture and community. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/thankyousomuchbutno/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/schoolconomy/ Guest Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittbritt-hunter/ Guest Website: https://schoolconomy.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we sit down with Alex Ennis, MBA, Digital Media Manager for the City of Detroit’s Media Services Department. Alex is one of the creative minds helping shape the city’s digital voice through Engage Detroit, the platform responsible for telling Detroit’s story across social media, web, and broadcast. Known for adding authenticity and personality to government communications, Alex and his team are making city updates engaging, relatable, and accessible for Detroit residents. We’re talking: How Alex is helping transform Detroit’s digital presence The strategy and creativity behind the city’s bold social media voice Why authenticity and cultural relevance matter in government communications His vision for the future of digital engagement in Detroit Tap in for a conversation that blends media, culture, and community—and learn how Detroit is reimagining the way cities connect with their people in the digital age. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/ennisalex/ Guest Website: https://detroitmi.gov/departments/media-services-department Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re bringing you another conversation recorded during Black Tech Saturdays’ Coworking Day. Our guest is Christopher Shah, founder of Onyx Tax & Financial Services in Detroit. With years of experience helping individuals and businesses navigate the complex world of taxes and financial planning, Chris is on a mission to make financial literacy and tax strategy accessible to everyone. We’re talking: * The most common mistakes entrepreneurs make with their finances—and how to avoid them * Why tax planning is more than compliance, it’s a tool for building wealth * The importance of financial literacy in Detroit’s small business community Tap in for a practical and insightful conversation about money management, entrepreneurship, and building a financial foundation that lasts. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/onyx_tf/ Guest Website: https://www.facebook.com/OnyxTaxDetroit/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! We’re bringing you one of our conversations recorded live at Black Tech Saturdays’ Coworking Day. Our guest is Grace Moore, founder of Moore Grace Solutions, a purpose-driven financial empowerment firm based in Detroit. As a financial strategist, speaker, and advocate for economic resilience, Grace is on a mission to help families and communities break free from cycles of financial hardship and build lasting legacies of security and wealth. We’re talking: * The inspiration she drew from caring for her father, a Vietnam veteran, and the lessons it taught her about underserved communities * Strategies for breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle, rebuilding credit, and building generational wealth * How Black Tech Saturdays and venture 313 were able to help her bring her vision to life * Advice for women and entrepreneurs who are chasing their vision and purpose Tap in for an inspiring conversation about faith, finance, and the power of walking in your calling to create solutions that uplift others and build legacy. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/mooregracesolutions Guest Website: https://linktr.ee/mooregrace Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re joined by Detroit’s own Delo Brown—comedian, actor, and producer making waves as one of the city’s rising voices in comedy. From studying political science at Michigan State to finding her true calling on stage, Delo’s story is one of risk-taking, resilience, and refusing to wait for permission. After a bold move to Los Angeles that landed her a Revolt TV special within three months. She’s building her own stages, headlining sold-out shows, and proving that ownership in comedy matters. We’re talking: * How Delo discovered comedy after walking away from traditional career paths * The lessons she learned from LA and why Detroit remains the heart of her work * The future of Detroit’s comedy scene and Delo’s vision for it Tap in for a candid, hilarious, and inspiring conversation with a creative who’s rewriting the rules of comedy by doing it her way. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Online Podcast Course: https://linkly.link/2EhT0 Podcast Ebook: https://linkly.link/2EhSz Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/keepitonthedelo/?hl=en Guest Website: https://www.youtube.com/@officialdelobrown Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! We wrap up our Black Business Month series at The Lip Bar Detroit with Part 3, spotlighting three trailblazing Detroit creatives and strategists: Gail Perry-Mason – Founder of Money Matters for Youth, bestselling author, and financial literacy champion who empowers Detroit youth through summer investment camps and programs that teach economics as community power. Erica Banks – Managing Partner of Bankable Marketing Strategies, a Detroit-based MARCOM and PR agency transforming brands with strategic storytelling and compelling visibility. Dr. Germaine Pentsil – Founder of G. Pentsil Consulting, serving non-traditional entrepreneurs in Detroit with business consulting, HR guidance, and organizational development. We're talking: Financial literacy as legacy-building – how Gail Perry-Mason teaches wealth as a tool for freedom and intergenerational empowerment. Marketing with purpose – Erica Banks’s approach to defining brand voices and crafting campaigns that amplify Black-owned businesses in Detroit. Consulting with conscience – Dr. Germaine Pentsil’s journey to guiding the “non-traditional entrepreneur” through strategy, structure, and support. Balancing creativity and strategy – how each woman builds and sustains her business while nurturing community and culture. Tap in for a powerful finale to our series—packed with practical inspiration, bold leadership, and stories that prove another Detroit is possible. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re joined by Sean Gray, Vice President of Small Business Services at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC). Recorded on location at The Lip Bar Detroit during their Black Business Month celebration, this episode highlights Sean’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening Detroit’s small business ecosystem. The DEGC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting business growth, investment, and economic opportunity across Detroit. We're talking: How programs like Motor City Match and BuyDetroit are driving entrepreneurship The importance of inclusive growth and investing in Detroit-based founders Lessons learned from supporting small businesses through challenges like the pandemic How Detroit’s business community can thrive in the years ahead Tap in for a powerful conversation about leadership, opportunity, and building an economy where Detroit entrepreneurs have the tools and support they need to succeed. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/degcallbusiness/ Guest Website: https://www.degc.org/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re joined by the founders of Belong Lending, Detroit’s first Black-owned mortgage company. Born out of a vision to close the wealth gap and rewrite the narrative around homeownership, Belong Lending is making the path to buying a home more accessible, transparent, and culturally rooted for Detroiters. We dive into how the founders came together to build something the city has never seen before, the challenges of disrupting an industry that hasn’t always served Black communities well, and why homeownership is more than just property—it’s about stability, legacy, and generational wealth. We’re talking: The journey of building Detroit’s first Black-owned mortgage company Tackling systemic barriers to Black homeownership Why access to homeownership equals access to power and stability A vision for Detroit where everyone feels they belong Tap in for a powerful conversation about housing, equity, and what it really means to invest in the future of Detroit. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/belonglending?igsh=ZjIyaDZxenA5ZGVm Guest Website: https://belonglending.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, I sat down with Amber M. Lewis, the creative powerhouse behind Social N The City and one of Detroit’s leading voices in digital storytelling and culture. Known for her role as the City of Detroit’s former Director of Digital and Social Media—where she grew engagement by over 400%—Amber has mastered the art of building authentic connections between communities, brands, and culture. Through Social N The City, she’s creating spaces for Detroit’s creator economy to thrive, uplifting Black creatives, and making sure opportunities stay rooted in the city. We’re talking: How the $250 billion creator economy is changing the game for Detroit creatives The vision behind Social N The City and its role in shaping Detroit’s cultural narrative Lessons from building impactful campaigns and events that drive engagement and opportunity How to keep creatives visible, valued, and paid Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, culture, and community power—and learn why Amber believes Detroit’s best stories are still unfolding. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/socialnthecity/ Guest Website: https://socialnthecity.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we’re joined by Matthew Burnett, Founder and CEO of Roundhere.io, the platform designed to connect entrepreneurs with the funding, talent, spaces, and opportunities they need to thrive. A 2X VC-backed founder and serial entrepreneur, Matthew is on a mission to bridge the gap between local founders and the resources that can take their businesses to the next level. We’re talking: * How Roundhere.io is simplifying the journey for entrepreneurs by centralizing access to vital resources * The importance of building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem in Michigan and beyond * Lessons Matthew has learned as a serial founder, and how they shape his leadership today * The ripple effect of empowering small businesses—creating innovation, jobs, and community prosperity * Why collaboration and shared success are the keys to sustainable growth for local founders Tap in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, impact, and building the kind of entrepreneurial ecosystem where ideas turn into realities and success knows no boundaries. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/roundhere.io/ Guest Website: https://roundhere.io/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we're joined by Brooklynn Jackson—a Detroit-born fashionpreneur and the creative force behind FormFit. From launching her first business in high school to creating a viral athleisure brand during the pandemic, Brooklynn has built a name rooted in confidence, community, and culture. Her passion for fashion and empowering others is driving a new generation of entrepreneurs, creatives, and tastemakers in the city. We're talking: * How a Twitter launch turned FormFit into a viral brand * Creating platforms for Detroit creatives through the FormFit Forum and Fashion Show * What it means to build a brand that represents comfort, style, and confidence * Why starting before you're "ready" is sometimes the real power move Tap in for a story that proves when vision meets hustle, anything is possible—especially in Detroit. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd The Law Office of Beverly Beal As part of our Black Fridays fam, you get exclusive savings: * Use Promo Code: BF25 – $25 off all Consultations * Use Promo Code: BF35 – 35% off all Contract Templates Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest IG: https://www.instagram.com/brooklynncobyyy/ Guest Website: https://formfitlifestyle.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations

What Up Doe?! This week on the Black Fridays Podcast, we sit down with George Adams Jr., founder of 360 Detroit Inc. and candidate for Detroit City Council in District 5. Born and raised in the Virginia Park neighborhood, George has spent the last decade turning vision into action—rehabilitating housing, creating jobs, and building parks in the same community that shaped him. Now, he's bringing that same grit and hands-on leadership to the campaign trail. In partnership with Citizen Detroit and Politics on the Go (PoGo), this conversation dives into the policies, purpose, and people that continue to shape her vision for a more equitable Detroit. We're talking: * His journey from community advocate to council candidate * Revitalizing Virginia Park through affordable housing and grassroots development * Why he believes true leadership means listening first, then acting with integrity Tap in for a candid conversation with a leader who doesn’t call himself a politician—he calls himself a servant of the people. Don’t Forget To Tap In With Our Sponsors!! Bamboo Private Suites: https://2ly.link/27SOd The Law Office of Beverly Beal As part of our Black Fridays fam, you get exclusive savings: * Use Promo Code: BF25 – $25 off all Consultations * Use Promo Code: BF35 – 35% off all Contract Templates Stay Connected Show IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackfridayspodcast/ Guest Website: https://georgeadamsjr.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-fridays/id1596422513 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vMobyyYrvRySGy1MbUTrF?si=1ff56aa6689a472d Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/black-fridays/donations