By Shelvy Glenn
Photo Credit-https://www.pinterest.com/pin
In the quiet hum of dawn, a new era awakens, where dreams once whispered in the shadows now rise with the sun. The landscape of Black enterprise is blooming, a testament to resilience and vision. This is a story of transformation, where the seeds of ambition, long buried beneath the weight of history, break through the soil to reach for the sky.
The rhythm of progress beats steadily, a symphony composed of countless individual notes. Each Black entrepreneur, an artist in their own right, paints their canvas with strokes of determination and creativity. They are the architects of their destinies, building empires from the ground up, brick by brick, idea by idea. "From 2017 to 2020, the number of Black-owned businesses across the country increased by 13.64%, a growth rate that outpaced the general business increase of 0.53% during the same period."1
In this garden of opportunity, the flowers of success are nurtured by the waters of education and the sunlight of community support. Institutions and initiatives, like gentle gardeners, tend to these budding enterprises, providing the nourishment needed to thrive. The roots run deep, anchored in a rich heritage of innovation and perseverance.
The echoes of legacy reverberate through time, from the pioneering spirits of Madam C.J. Walker and A.G. Gaston to the modern-day trailblazers who carry the torch forward. Their stories are woven into the fabric of this movement, a tapestry of triumphs and trials that inspire and guide the next generation. "In 2020 alone, Black business owners employed 1.321 million people and created 48,549 new jobs, adding an additional $1.7 billion in aggregate payroll to the U.S. economy."3
In the dance of empowerment, Black business owners move with grace and purpose. Their steps create ripples that extend far beyond their immediate circles, touching lives and uplifting communities. Each success story is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for others to follow. "More than one-in-five Black adults in the United States now say that owning a business is essential to financial success."4
Among these success stories is the inspiring journey of Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings, the founders of the “Earn Your Leisure” podcast. In the bustling heart of New York City, these two friends found themselves at a crossroads. Both had a passion for financial literacy and a burning desire to uplift their community. Rashad, a financial advisor, and Troy, an educator, often discussed the lack of accessible financial education for Black communities. They dreamed of creating a platform that could bridge this gap, making financial knowledge both engaging and relatable.
One evening, over a cup of coffee, the idea for “Earn Your Leisure” was born. They envisioned a podcast that would blend financial education with pop culture, making complex financial concepts easy to understand. With a leap of faith, they recorded their first episode, sharing their insights on investing, entrepreneurship, and wealth-building.
The podcast quickly gained traction, resonating with listeners who were hungry for this kind of content. Rashad and Troy’s unique approach, combining real-life stories with practical advice, struck a chord. They invited guests from various industries, including athletes, entertainers, and successful entrepreneurs, to share their journeys and financial wisdom.
As the podcast grew, so did its impact. “Earn Your Leisure” became more than just a podcast; it evolved into a movement. They launched “EYL University,” an online educational platform offering webinars and courses on business and finance. Their live events, like the “Invest Fest,” drew thousands of attendees, eager to learn and network.
Rashad and Troy’s dedication paid off. “Earn Your Leisure” climbed the charts, consistently ranking among the top business podcasts. Their message reached millions, empowering a new generation of Black investors and business owners. The podcast’s success was a testament to the power of education and the importance of representation.
Adding to this chorus of voices are other influential Black podcasters who have made significant impacts.
“The Read,” hosted by Kid Fury and Crissle, offers a humorous and insightful take on pop culture and social issues, resonating deeply with their audience3. “Therapy for Black Girls,” hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, provides a safe space for discussions on mental health and personal development, empowering listeners to prioritize their well-being3. “Questlove Supreme,” led by the legendary musician Questlove, dives into the stories behind the music, celebrating the richness of Black culture." 5
Keenan Grace, a prominent figure in the investing world, has also made waves with his engaging and educational content. Through his YouTube channel, Keenan shares insights on trading and long-term investing, making complex financial concepts accessible to beginners and experienced traders alike. "His dedication to financial education has garnered a large following, empowering many to take control of their financial futures".6
Chris Zane, another inspiring figure, built his multimillion-dollar business, Zane’s Cycles, on the foundation of exceptional customer service and innovative business practices. "His journey from a small bike shop owner to a successful entrepreneur highlights the importance of investing in customer relationships and community support."7
The melody of change is sweet and resonant, a harmonious blend of progress and possibility. As Black investors and business owners rise, they reshape the economic landscape, infusing it with diversity and innovation. Their contributions are not just economic but cultural, enriching the marketplace with unique perspectives and offerings. "Despite the challenges, the number of Black-owned businesses continues to grow, with a 4.72% increase from 2019 to 2021."8
On the horizon, the promise of a brighter future glows with a golden hue. The journey is far from over, and challenges remain, but the momentum is undeniable. With each step forward, the barriers of the past crumble, making way for a new dawn where opportunity is boundless, and success is within reach for all.
In this chorus of unity, voices join together in a powerful anthem of progress. The collective strength of the Black community, united in purpose and vision, propels this movement forward. It is a testament to what can be achieved when dreams are nurtured, and we stop focusing on the bad kids.
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