Black Wall Street Today with Blair Durham

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306

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May 2026

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About the show

The Black Wall Street Today Show is a Black Business and Entrepreneurship radio show and podcast hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-President of Black BRAND, and occurs live in the studios of the historic and prestigious HBCU Hampton University. This interview styled show is a media hub for everything Black business, politics, culture, and news. The podcast is produced by Hampton University alumnae Seko Varner, from Positive Vibes Inc., using selected audio from the radio show and other Black BRAND events. info@blackbrand.biz http://Blackbrand.biz

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May 13, 202633 min

Bookkeeping is Strategy - Ashley Satterwhite on Black Wall Street Today Show

💼📈 Too many entrepreneurs are building businesses without building a financial strategy. And when tax season hits? Chaos. Missed deductions. Poor records. Stress. Lost money.That’s why this episode of Black BRAND’s Black Wall Street Today is a must-watch for every entrepreneur, freelancer, real estate investor, side hustler, and growing business owner.Hosted by Brian Owens and powered by the visionary leadership of Blair Durham, this powerful conversation features the financial insight of Ashley from Retained By Ashley Bookkeeping as she breaks down why bookkeeping is not just paperwork — it’s a business survival strategy.🔥 In this episode, Ashley explains:Why clean bookkeeping protects your businessCommon mistakes entrepreneurs make before tax seasonHow proper financial tracking helps increase profitsWhy business owners should separate personal and business financesTax strategy moves smart entrepreneurs make year-roundHow organized records can help with funding, loans, and scalingThe connection between bookkeeping, wealth building, and generational business successThis isn’t just an accounting conversation. It’s a conversation about ownership, preparation, and keeping more of the money you work hard to earn.Whether you’re a startup founder, creative entrepreneur, real estate investor, independent contractor, or established business owner, this episode delivers gems that can help you avoid financial pitfalls and position your business for long-term growth.🎯 If you’ve ever said:“I need to get my business finances together…”“This tax stuff is confusing…”“I know I’m leaving money on the table…”…then this episode was made for you.Tap in with Black Wall Street Today and learn why smart bookkeeping isn’t optional — it’s part of building Black wealth, business sustainability, and economic power.#BlackWallStreetToday #BlackBRAND #BusinessFinance #Bookkeeping #TaxStrategy #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessTips #BusinessOwner #FinancialLiteracy #BusinessGrowth #TaxPreparation #AccountingTips #WealthBuilding #BlackBusiness #GenerationalWealth #BusinessFunding #FinancialStrategy #EntrepreneurMindset #HamptonRoads #NorfolkVA #VirginiaBusiness #MoneyManagement #RealEstateInvesting #SideHustle #BusinessEducation

April 14, 202628 min

The Story Behind a Marketable Empire - Cori Fonville Foster on 🎙️ Black Wall Street Today

If you’ve ever felt like:“I’m doing everything right, but it’s not working…”“My business isn’t growing the way it should…”“I know I’m valuable, but the market isn’t seeing it…”Then this episode will shift how you think—and how you move.👉 Tap in. Take notes. Transform your business.Because in this game…visibility is currency—but strategy is wealth. 💰What if the difference between a struggling business… and a scalable, profitable brand… wasn’t more money—but a sharper strategy?On this powerful episode of Black Wall Street Today, hosted by Brian Owens, we sit down with Cori Fonville Foster, the visionary founder of IROC Marketable Business Solutions—a company built on one mission: turning overlooked businesses into undeniable brands.This isn’t just another business interview.This is a blueprint for transformation.💡 From Idea to Impact: The IROC PhilosophyCori doesn’t just “help businesses”—she re-engineers how they show up in the marketplace.Through IROC Marketable Business Solutions, she focuses on:Clarifying brand identityStructuring businesses for growthCreating marketing strategies that actually convertHelping entrepreneurs stop guessing—and start scalingHer message is clear:👉 “You don’t have a revenue problem… you have a positioning problem.”And in today’s crowded digital economy, that insight hits different.🚀 Why This Conversation Matters RIGHT NOWIn an era where everyone is “posting” but few are profiting, Cori breaks down:Why most small businesses stay invisibleHow to transition from hustle to structureThe mindset shift required to become truly marketableAnd how branding, systems, and strategy create real leverageThis episode speaks directly to:Entrepreneurs stuck at inconsistent incomeCreators trying to monetize their platformsBusiness owners ready to scale beyond word-of-mouth🔥 The Bigger Message: Legacy Over LikesWhat makes Cori’s story powerful isn’t just her business success—it’s her commitment to building sustainable ecosystems for other entrepreneurs.Aligned with the mission of Black BRAND, this conversation reinforces a deeper truth:💬 We’re not just building businesses… we’re building legacy, ownership, and economic power.

April 6, 202629 min

🏠 Building Black Wealth Through Strategic Real Estate Ownership

This podcast episode features an interview between host Blair Durham and real estate professional Marquita Curtis, focusing on the importance of property ownership for building generational wealth. Curtis details her transition from counseling to real estate, sharing practical strategies such as "house hacking" and wholesaling to help listeners enter the market with minimal capital. The conversation highlights how licensure and networking provide unique access to lucrative deals and creative financing options, such as seller financing. Beyond individual profit, the speakers discuss the potential for community transformation through urban development and the revitalization of local neighborhoods. Ultimately, the source serves as an educational guide to using real estate as a tool for financial independence and long-term stability.

April 6, 202628 min

🧠 Modern Mental Health: Reclaiming Wellness in the Black Community

This episode features an interview with licensed professional counselor Clarvette Williams, who discusses the evolving perception of mental health within the Black community. Williams explains how cultural stigmas, such as the pressure to be a "strong woman" or the habit of keeping family business private, are gradually being replaced by an acceptance of therapy as essential self-care. The conversation highlights the distinction between professional therapists and social media influencers, noting that clinical experts provide ethical, evidence-based guidance rather than just personal opinions. Williams describes her therapeutic approach as building a safe, relatable rapport where clients can confront their truths and break generational cycles. She encourages listeners to prioritize their mental well-being as they would their physical health, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than a lack of sanity. Ultimately, the source serves as a call to action for individuals to utilize available resources like her practice, Release Wellness, to achieve emotional freedom and personal growth.

April 4, 202630 min

Generations Deep: How Shanita Bennett Built a Family Catering Powerhouse - #blackbrand

On this episode of Black Wall Street Today, guest host Brian Owens, program director at Black BRAND, sits down with the "ancestor’s answer" to entrepreneurship: Shanita Bennett, the visionary behind the luxury catering brand Savor in Style. The journey to culinary excellence is "generations deep" for Bennett. Inspired by her grandmother’s kitchen bakery and her great-grandfather’s catering business, Shanita eventually combined her years of professional restaurant management experience with a spiritual calling to launch her own brand. Today, she operates a true family powerhouse, often collaborating with her mother, an event planner, and her daughter, a mobile bartender, to execute seamless events. Savor in Style is far more than a meal service; it is an elevated experience where the food tells a "story". Owens describes her presentation as a "piece of museum art," featuring meticulously pressed linens, fresh roses, and tiered displays that utilize height for a "grand presentation". Bennett’s obsession with detail is unmatched—she even matches food label cards to the event’s invitations to ensure every element of the "culinary toast" is synchronized. A cornerstone of Bennett's philosophy is radical inclusivity. As a long-time pescatarian, she understands the frustration of being "overlooked" at upscale events. She prides herself on offering high-level variety for vegans and those with strict dietary requirements, using herbs, spices, and butter alternatives to ensure dishes like collard greens and cabbage are flavorful for everyone. Whether it is a private dinner for two on an oceanfront balcony or a wedding for over 250 guests, her team brings the same "spirit of excellence" to every plate. Her impact extends beyond events into the daily lives of her clients through custom meal prep. Serving everyone from blue-collar workers to medical doctors, she provides convenience and health-focused options that have even helped clients regulate their blood pressure. Bennett’s path to success was forged through incredible resilience. She shares the powerful revelation that she once "catered in prison" using only a microwave, a testament to the "tough skin" and determination required of an entrepreneur. Now home for 12 years and managing a five-star business, she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to trust their higher power and nurture their reputation. For those ready to **"Savor the Style and Taste the Difference,"** Shanita guides her clients through every step of the process, from selecting the perfect cocktail hour appetizers to designing the final dessert course. As the episode concludes, Owens reminds listeners that whether by plane, train, or automobile, Savor in Style is ready to bring a high level of class to any event.#BlackWallStreetToday #EntrepreneurJourney #FromPrisonToSuccess #WomenInBusiness #BlackOwnedBusiness #LuxuryCatering #FoodEntrepreneur #StartupStory #Resilience #BusinessSuccess #CateringBusiness #ChefLife #EntrepreneurMindset #FamilyBusiness #WealthBuilding #Inspiration #BusinessGrowth #HustleAndMotivate #SuccessStory #HospitalityIndustry luxury catering business, from prison to entrepreneur, Shanita Bennett story, Black entrepreneurship success, catering empire journey, women entrepreneurs in hospitality, family owned catering business, upscale event catering, food presentation art, resilience in business, starting a catering company, high end catering services, Black business spotlight, entrepreneurial comeback story, meal prep business success, hospitality business growth, generational entrepreneurship, building a food brand, premium catering experience, business motivation

August 21, 202532 min

Building Economic Power: An Interview with Dr. Natalie Halloran

In this powerful episode of "Black Wall Street Today," we sit down with Dr. Natalie Halloran, a distinguished educational and business leader and a key figure at Till Hall Enterprise. With over three decades of experience in strategic leadership and organizational improvement, Dr. Halloran shares her expert insights on building sustainable growth and equity within the Black business community.We dive deep into how Dr. Halloran's work in educational leadership translates to success for Black entrepreneurs. Get ready to learn about:Strategic Planning for Black Businesses: The critical role of data-driven practices in closing the wealth gap and fostering economic empowerment.Leadership Development: Essential advice for emerging Black leaders and how to make a lasting, systemic impact.Grant Management & Funding: Navigating the grant application process to secure crucial funding for small, Black-owned businesses.The Intersection of Education and Entrepreneurship: How to apply lessons from school system improvement to business growth and community development.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or a community leader, this episode provides actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives on advancing Black economic power.Key Takeaways:Dr. Natalie Halloran's journey and her work with Till Hall Enterprise.How to use data and collaborative problem-solving to drive business success.The importance of strategic planning and leadership development for Black entrepreneurs.Practical tips for securing grants and navigating the funding landscape.Future trends that will impact Black communities and businesses.About Our Guest: Dr. Natalie Halloran is a seasoned educational and business leader with Till Hall Enterprise, specializing in strategic planning, leadership development, and human capital management. Her work is rooted in a deep commitment to equity and continuous improvement.Subscribe to "Black Wall Street Today" to hear more stories of Black excellence and economic empowerment."Black Wall Street," "Black business," "Black entrepreneurs," "economic empowerment," "Dr. Natalie Halloran," "Till Hall Enterprise," "leadership development," "strategic planning," and "grant management"Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Want to contact Blair orBrian or Black BRAND? Info@BlackBRAND.biz . The Black WallStreet Today (BWST) radio show is focused on all things Black entrepreneurshipand hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-Presidentof Black BRAND. The BWST podcast is produced by using selected audio from theradio show and other Black BRAND events. BWST is the media outlet for BlackBRAND. Black BRAND is a 501(c)(3) organization that stands for BusinessResearch Analytics Networking and Development. We are Hampton Roads RegionalBlack Chamber of Commerce. We promote group economics through professionaldevelopment and community empowerment, and we unify the black dollar byproviding financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and networkingresources! http://blackbrand.biz m.me/blackwallstreettoday + info@blackbrand.biz + (757) 541-2680 Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/ + Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackbrandbiz/ Find Black Owned Businesses in the 757: www.HRGreenbook.com Invest in Black Excellence! Watch all episodes of www.GenerationalFlip.com now! $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/Get up to $20k in American Express Credit - Here’s my Amexreferral link. Use it and we could both earn rewards if you are approved and get a Card. Check out offers and Card benefits. https://americanexpress.com/en-us/referral/delta-skymiles-gold?ref=SEKOVxoJW&xl=cp10mgMoney for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibesInvest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr

August 3, 202530 min

Bringing a creative vision to life - Kaila Robinson on BWST

In this insightful episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Kaila, a talented videographer and graphic designer who works behind the scenes with the creative agency Create and Elevate. We started by delving into her origin story, learning about her journey into the world of creative services and what drew her to help businesses from a creative agency perspective.Our conversation explored the unique dynamic of her work with Create and Elevate, highlighting how she contributes to their mission and her process for bringing a client's vision to life. Kaila shared some of the common challenges of working behind the scenes and how she navigates them to ensure a successful outcome.We then took a deep dive into her two primary crafts. On the videography side, she shared her "secret ingredient" for effective business videos and offered a behind-the-scenes look at how she overcomes unexpected challenges on a shoot. For graphic design, Kaila provided valuable insights into current trends, common mistakes businesses make, and the importance of maintaining a consistent visual identity across all platforms.Finally, Kaila offered some powerful advice for business owners looking to improve their creative strategy. She shared her thoughts on the most rewarding aspects of her work and gave us a glimpse into the future of visual content in the business world.Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Want to contact Blair or Brian or Black BRAND? Info@BlackBRAND.biz . The Black Wall Street Today (BWST) radio show is focused on all things Black entrepreneurship and hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-President of Black BRAND. The BWST podcast is produced by using selected audio from the radio show and other Black BRAND events. BWST is the media outlet for Black BRAND. Black BRAND is a 501(c)(3) organization that stands for Business Research Analytics Networking and Development. We are Hampton Roads Regional Black Chamber of Commerce. We promote group economics through professional development and community empowerment, and we unify the black dollar by providing financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and networking resources! http://blackbrand.biz m.me/blackwallstreettoday + info@blackbrand.biz + (757) 541-2680 Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/ + Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackbrandbiz/ Produced by Seko Varner for Positive VibesInc. http://www.PositiveVibes.net Find Black Owned Businesses in the 757: www.HRGreenbook.com Invest in Black Excellence! Watch all episodes of www.GenerationalFlip.com now! $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibesMoney for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesConsulting.comPurify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibesInvest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr

August 3, 202534 min

Let's talk money. Let's talk beauty - April Littlejohn on BWSTWBD

Let's talk about money - April Littlejohn on BWSTWBDInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Want to contact Blair or Brian or Black BRAND? Info@BlackBRAND.biz . The Black Wall Street Today (BWST) radio show is focused on all things Black entrepreneurship and hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-President of Black BRAND. The BWST podcast is produced by using selected audio from the radio show and other Black BRAND events. BWST is the media outlet for Black BRAND. Black BRAND is a 501(c)(3) organization that stands for Business Research Analytics Networking and Development. We are Hampton Roads Regional Black Chamber of Commerce. We promote group economics through professional development and community empowerment, and we unify the black dollar by providing financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and networking resources! http://blackbrand.biz m.me/blackwallstreettoday + info@blackbrand.biz + (757) 541-2680 Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/ + Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackbrandbiz/ Produced by Seko Varner for Positive Vibes Inc. http://www.PositiveVibes.net Find Black Owned Businesses in the 757: www.HRGreenbook.com Invest in Black Excellence! Watch all episodes of www.GenerationalFlip.com now! $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/ Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibes Money for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesConsulting.com Purify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibes Invest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr

August 2, 202533 min

Rebuilding Black Wall Street: The Power of Performing Arts for Youth & Community with Tanya Shadley

Building on the Legacy of Black Wall Street Through Arts & Youth Empowerment with Tanya Shadley of TRS Productions & TRS Kids. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tanya Shadley, the visionary CEO behind TRS Productions and TRS Kids. Discover how Tanya, an accomplished actress, writer, and director, is harnessing the power of performing arts to empower the next generation and revitalize communities, drawing parallels to the historical significance of Black Wall Street.We delve into the mission of TRS Kids, providing quality, affordable arts training for youth, and explore how these programs cultivate confidence, leadership, and a deep appreciation for Black history. Tanya shares insights into how TRS Productions creates impactful entertainment that addresses important social issues, from celebrating Juneteenth to honoring the spirit of Black economic empowerment.Key Takeaways:Tanya Shadley's Journey: Learn about the personal passion and inspiration that led Tanya to establish TRS Productions (2006) and TRS Kids (2020), focusing on the transformative power of the arts.Empowering Youth Through Arts: Discover how TRS Kids provides accessible, high-quality training in acting, voice, and dance, fostering confidence, leadership, and historical awareness among young participants.Arts as a Catalyst for Change: Understand how Tanya's work uses performance to illuminate challenging social issues and celebrate cultural milestones, contributing to a modern-day re-imagining of empowered communities.Timestamps:[00:01:30] Introduction to Tanya Shadley and the genesis of TRS Productions & TRS Kids.[00:06:45] The critical role of accessible arts education through TRS Kids and its impact on youth development.[00:12:10] Exploring how TRS Kids instills confidence, leadership, and an appreciation for Black history.[00:18:00] TRS Productions: Using performance to address social issues and connect with the spirit of Black Wall Street.[00:23:40] The modern relevance of Black Wall Street principles in Tanya's work and community building.[00:27:15] Future aspirations for TRS Kids and TRS Productions and how to support their vital work.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to help us reach more listeners interested in arts, youth empowerment, and community impact!Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Want to contact Blair or Brian or Black BRAND? Info@BlackBRAND.biz . The Black Wall Street Today (BWST) radio show is focused on all things Black entrepreneurship and hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-President of Black BRAND. The BWST podcast is produced by using selected audio from the radio show and other Black BRAND events. BWST is the media outlet for Black BRAND. Black BRAND is a 501(c)(3) organization that stands for Business Research Analytics Networking and Development. We are Hampton Roads Regional Black Chamber of Commerce. We promote group economics through professional development and community empowerment, and we unify the black dollar by providing financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and networking resources! http://blackbrand.biz m.me/blackwallstreettoday + info@blackbrand.biz + (757) 541-2680 Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/ + Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackbrandbiz/ Produced by Seko Varner for Positive Vibes Inc. http://www.PositiveVibes.net Find Black Owned Businesses in the 757: www.HRGreenbook.com Invest in Black Excellence! Watch all episodes of www.GenerationalFlip.com now! $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/ Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibes Money for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesConsulting.com Invest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr

August 2, 202531 min

You need a powerful financial strategy! Brandy Hubbard on BWST

Today's episode features a discussion with a guest from American Classic Agency, an organization that aims to help families protect their income and get out of debt. The interview covered the guest's background, the company's mission, and a special recruiting event.Brandy shared that agents with American Classic Agency do more than just sell insurance—they help clients with powerful financial strategies. A key part of their mission is helping families pay off all their debt, including a 30-year mortgage, in nine years or less. This strategy is described as more than just a job; it's a movement focused on improving the financial well-being of the local community. The guest also shared a personal vision for the future of the team, emphasizing the desire to impact more lives and grow the agency.For listeners looking for a new career path, the guest emphasized that the agency isn't just looking for licensed agents. They are actively seeking people who are stuck in a dead-end job or just looking for extra income. The guest highlighted that the agency provides extensive training and support for new and transitioning agents, ensuring they have the tools to succeed.The episode also served as an announcement for a special recruiting event. The guest gave all the details for the event happening on August 21st. The event is for anyone interested in learning more about the opportunity and the mission of American Classic Agency. If you're looking for a change or want to explore a new career, this event is a great way to get started.Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Want to contact Blair or Brian of Black BRAND? Info@BlackBRAND.biz . The Black WallStreet Today (BWST) radio show is focused on all things Black entrepreneurshipand hosted by Virginia Tech alumnae Blair Durham, co-founder and co-Presidentof Black BRAND. The BWST podcast is produced by using selected audio from theradio show and other Black BRAND events. BWST is the media outlet for BlackBRAND. Black BRAND is a 501(c)(3) organization that stands for BusinessResearch Analytics Networking and Development. We are Hampton Roads RegionalBlack Chamber of Commerce. We promote group economics through professionaldevelopment and community empowerment, and we unify the black dollar byproviding financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and networkingresources! http://blackbrand.biz m.me/blackwallstreettoday + info@blackbrand.biz + (757) 541-2680 Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/ + Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackbrandbiz/ Produced by Seko Varner for Positive VibesInc. http://www.PositiveVibes.net Find Black Owned Businesses in the 757: www.HRGreenbook.com Invest in Black Excellence! Watch all episodes of www.GenerationalFlip.com now! $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibesMoney for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesConsulting.comPurify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibesInvest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr