
Not So CEO Talkshow
By Not So CEO


26. Water Cooler Convo with Kéla Walker
On this episode of the Not So CEO Talk Show, we're having Water Cooler Convo with Kéla Walker to chat about her journey, her impact, and the power of staying true to oneself.
About Kéla Walker
Seven-time Emmy-nominated TV host & producer, Kéla Walker is a multi-talented media personality. An authentic storyteller, Kéla has leveraged her talents to cultivate a highly engaged tribe of "Kuties" across her social media platforms who see her as a “bestie in my head”. Identified by ESSENCE Magazine as a tastemaker and "It Girl," Kéla has established herself as an authority within the community, with a passion to enlighten, connect, and inspire.
Kéla strikes a balance between hard work and play, inspiring others to make their dreams a reality and live their best life. When she’s not hosting or producing content for notable media outlets like OWN, BET, CLEO TV, Getty or conducting red carpet interviews at the Tony Awards, the Met Gala, or The Grammy’s, Kéla curates authentic content for leading consumer brands, keeping her audience craving more of her #KélaVie lifestyle with every share!
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25. Discovering the North Star In Your Business with Shani Syphrett-Haynes of Jamila Studio
Join us in this enlightening conversation as we sit down with Shani Syphrett-Haynes, an award-winning global marketer, business strategist, and creative executive coach. Shani shares her insights on building an inner compass and smart strategies to maximize value while maintaining integrity in a rapidly changing world. She offers valuable advice on how entrepreneurs can identify their brand's North Star to guide decision-making and foster meaningful growth.
About Shani Syphrett-Haynes
Shani is an award-winning marketer and business strategist who leads brand marketing campaigns for Pinterest. She’s also the founder of Jamila Studio, a boutique consulting firm dedicated to supporting underestimated yet remarkably creative women of color in living abundant lives doing meaningful work. Shani’s approach focuses on simplifying practices that move things from good to great and removing barriers for more creative professionals to thrive. Her expertise lies in helping companies and individuals build strategies that are both effective and aligned with their core values.
In This Episode We Discuss
- Balancing corporate roles and entrepreneurship, and the key lessons learned along the way.
- The concept of a North Star and how it can serve as a guiding force for your brand’s direction and decisions.
- How to define and uncover your brand’s North Star amidst market noise and competition.
- Practical strategies for staying aligned with your brand’s core purpose and avoiding distractions.
Chapters
0:00 Intro
2:42 Shani’s Background
7:24 Pivoting Professionally
10:57 Paving the Way for Black Women and WOC
19:57 Community is the Cheatcode
22:55 Navigating Career Challenges
25:43 Putting Yourself First Through Self Care
27:50 What Is Your Brand’s North Star
29:43 The Best Method For Discovering Your Brand’s North Star
35:15 Examples of Brands With Strong North Stars
43:26 Making Business Decisions Around Your North Star
44:15 Avoiding Distractions and Detours
49:18 Don’t Burn It All Down, Repurpose
Follow Shani on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/shanisyphrett/
Connect With Shani & Jamila Studio
https://shanisyphrett.com/
https://www.jamilastudio.com/coaching
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE

24. officehrs: How to Tell It's Time For A Rebrand
Ever feel like your brand just isn't hitting the mark anymore? In today’s officehrs segment, we tackle the signs that tell you it might be time for a brand refresh—or a complete overhaul. From declining sales and low social media engagement to messaging that’s all over the place, we cover the red flags that signal your brand is losing its spark.
We also explore strategies for auditing your brand’s health, updating your identity, and reestablishing brand resonance to reconnect with your audience.
SIGN UP for our Making the Brand Audit, a FREE interactive workshop in which we'll break down your brand's strengths and weaknesses with a fun, gamified experience. Whether your brand is winning or needs a revamp this workshop will help you pinpoint what’s working and what needs a little TLC.
Register for the Making the Brand Audit Workshop
In This Episode We Discuss:
- Why brand resonance matters in today’s market.
- 13 red flags that signal it’s time for a rebrand.
- How to audit your brand for alignment and relevance.
- Common pitfalls to avoid when rebranding.
Chapters 0:00 Introduction
2:35 The Importance of Brand Relevance
4:16 Red Flags That Signal That It’s Time For a Rebrand
14:46 IRL Examples of Successful Businesses That Rebranded
15:38 A Guide on How to Approach a Rebrand
18:50 Common Rebranding Pitfalls
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
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23. Standing On Your Business Strategy with Muna Ikedionwu
Join us in this insightful conversation as we sit down with Muna Ikedionwu, a startup expert and seasoned business strategist. With a passion for making business easier for underrepresented founders, Muna offers practical advice and key strategies for startups in the beauty, wellness, and tech industries to launch, scale, and exit successfully.
About Muna
Muna is a startup expert, seasoned marketer, and founder of strategic advisory firm M.KEDI (editor's note: pronounced em-KAY-dee). She started her career early at just 17 years old and over the past ten years has worked with Madewell, Warby Parker, Gucci, Topicals, Chillhouse, TikTok, and the WNBA among others. She's extremely passionate about making business easier for underrepresented founders and now works with beauty, wellness, and tech startups to help them launch, scale, and exit with ease. She's also the Executive Director of Sad Girls Club, a global mental health organization providing cultural mental health resources for Gen Z and millennial women and girls of color. Since moving part-time to Paris in 2023, Muna also hosts Le French Conversation, a meetup group for cool girls learning French in NYC.
In This Episode We Discuss:
- The importance of a solid business strategy and what investors are really looking for.
- Essential elements to include in your business plan to attract investment.
- Challenges that women-owned and BIPOC founders face and strategies to overcome them.
- Fundraising tips for first-time founders, including the differences between investors, angel investors, and VCs.
- Tips on securing grants and navigating the ins and outs of brand partnerships.
Chapters
0:00 Intro
3:20 Muna’s Background
21:11 Balancing Executive Director Role at Sad Girls Club
27:32 The Importance of a Business Strategy
31:16 What Investors Are Looking For
35:17 Important Things To Include In Your Business Plan
40:03 Difference Between Customers & Consumers
41:30 Challenges Women Owned & BIPOC Founders Face and Strategies to Overcome Them
47:47 Tips On Fundraising For First-Time Founders
52:39 Difference Between Investors, Angel Investors, and VCS
57:15 Most Important Step When Securing Grants
01:00:05 The Ins and Outs of Brand Partnerships
Stay Connected with Muna
Follow Muna on Linkedin
Stay Up to Date with Le French Conversation
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
Follow Not So CEO on Socials

22. Turning Your Passion Into Profit with Kemetria Lilly of Lilly's Kloset
Join us in this inspiring conversation as we sit down with Kemetria Lilly, a trailblazing boutique industry veteran and educator, who has turned her passion for fashion into a multi-million dollar empire. Kemetria shares her remarkable journey from launching Lilly’s Kloset in 2012 with just $2,500 to grossing over $30 million in sales. With over a decade of experience in retail and small business development, Kemetria offers practical advice and key strategies for aspiring entrepreneurs on how to turn their dreams into reality.
About Kemetria Lilly
Kemetria Lilly is the powerhouse behind Lilly’s Kloset, a women’s apparel brand known for offering fashion-forward clothing without compromising on quality, cost, or comfort. With a background rich in retail and small business development, Kemetria has established herself as a leading authority in the boutique industry. She has built a thriving business and empowered countless entrepreneurs through her educational venture, Learn With Lilly, where she shares her knowledge on everything from trend forecasting to marketing strategies.
In This Episode We Discuss:
- Practical, cost-effective ways for entrepreneurs to gain the necessary skills to build a successful business.
- Steps to turn your idea into a reality to go from passion to profit.
- Strategies for building a strong online presence and engaging with followers on social media.
- Financial advice for new entrepreneurs on managing and scaling investments.
- Tips for maintaining customer loyalty and creating a brand that resonates with your audience.
Chapters
0:00 Introduction
2:47 How We Met
7:32 Lilly’s Background
10:28 Searching For Purpose After College
12:24 Taking the Reigns and Building Lilly’s Kloset
14:57 Scaling into a Multi-Million Dollar Brand
16:25 Creating Her Own Lane
19:03 Overcoming Key Challenges to Ensure Success
20:47 Effective Ways for Entrepreneurs to Educate Themselves
26:17 How to Turn Your Passion Into Profit
29:48 Strategies for Building a Strong Online Presence
32:16 Financial Advice for Scaling a Business
35:22 Tips on Creating Customer Loyalty
38:33 Insights on Curating Product Collections That Meet Customer Expectations
41:31 Building a Brick & Mortar Store
44:48 How to Integrate Your Mission Into Your Business Model
Keep Up With Lilly Online
https://www.instagram.com/accordingtolilly/
https://www.instagram.com/lillyskloset/
Learn From Lilly
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper
Follow Not So CEO on Socials

21. Using Astrology to Unlock Your Professional Potential with Dossé-Via Trenou of KnowTheZodiac
Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Dossé-Via Trenou, a renowned West African astrologer, actress, author, and entrepreneur. Dossé-Via shares her remarkable journey from her diverse academic background to becoming a leading figure in the world of astrology with her platform KnowTheZodiac. With her cosmic wisdom and dedication to empowering others, Dossé-Via offers invaluable guidance and advice for entrepreneurs and creatives looking to unlock their professional potential through astrology. About Dossé-Via Trenou Dossé-Via Trenou is a West African astrologer, actress, author, and entrepreneur who views astrology as a tool for empowerment and healing. She helps people live their best lives by sharing astrological insights, creating musical meditations, and hosting spiritually awakening trips to the Motherland. Her platform and app, KnowTheZodiac, has cultivated a following of over 1 million readers, including notable figures like Miguel, Drake, Kendall Jenner, and Jaylen Brown. KTZ offers in-depth birth chart readings and wildly accurate horoscopes to clients worldwide. Dossé-Via attended the University of Southern California, where she double majored in Narrative Studies and French with a minor in Songwriting. After earning her Master’s degree in English Education from Columbia University, she pursued her passion for entrepreneurship and creativity. She is also the founder of Magic & Melanin, a travel agency that provides healing homegoing experiences to the Motherland for people of African descent. Additionally, Dossé-Via's EP of mantras and meditations, "Dream with Dossé-Via," and her upcoming children's book, "Melanin Magic: A Young Mystic's Guide to African Spirituality," showcase her multifaceted talents and commitment to spiritual growth and healing. In This Episode We Discuss: - The basics of astrology and its relevance to everyday life. - How understanding one's birth chart can unlock self-awareness, and professional potential, and help individuals achieve their career goals. - Specific astrological insights, placements, and techniques recommended for entrepreneurs and creatives looking to align their business ventures with their cosmic paths. - The concept of Astrocartography and how it can guide you in choosing the best locations for personal and professional success. - The significance of Saturn Return and its impact on personal and professional transformation. - The roles of the North Node and South Node in understanding life purpose and past influences. - Practical advice on integrating astrology into daily routines to enhance professional lives and overall well-being. Chapters 0:00 Introduction 3:28 Dossé-Via’s Background 9:35 Early Beginnings in Astrology & Building Know the Zodiac 24:08 The Journey to Becoming a First-Time Author 28:30 On Launching A Travel Agency Connecting People Back to Their Roots 40:43 Launching a Meditation EP 49:34 Understanding the Basics of Astrology 54:29 Diving Deep Into Chart Rulers & Rising Signs 01:04:01 A Breakdown of House Placements 01:07:41 The North & South Nodes 1:13:26 Planetary Placements for Entrepreneurs & Creatives 1:16:10 The Role of Your Midheaven & 10th House in Your Career 1:24:01 How Astrocartography Can Impact Your Personal & Professional Livlihood 1:28:29 All About Your Saturn Return 1:34:02 Integrating Astrology Into Your Routines 1:39:00 How to Support Dossé-Via Stay Connected with Dossé-Via Trenou Follow @Dossé-Via and @KnowTheZodiac on Instagram
Download the KnowTheZodiac App
Pre-order Dossé-Via's Upcoming Children's Book: "Melanin Magic: A Young Mystic's Guide to African Spirituality"
Pre-order the paperback edition of The Essential Signs & Skymates and get a FREE Compatibility Chart Reading* Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE

20. Managing Your Mental & Emotional Health Through EFT Tapping with Lotus La Loba
In this episode of the Not So CEO podcast, we dive deep into the transformative power of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Tapping with the distinguished trauma-informed practitioner and energy healer, Lotus La Loba. Lotus shares her profound insights and practical advice on managing mental and emotional health through EFT Tapping, especially for entrepreneurs, creatives, and founders. She emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces, cultivating mindfulness, and incorporating holistic healing practices into daily routines to enhance overall well-being and resilience. About Lotus La Loba Lotus La Loba (she/her/hers) is a renowned trauma-informed practitioner, energy healer, and acclaimed speaker born and raised in NYC. With over a decade of expertise in curating events, teaching classes, and leading corporate wellness sessions, Lotus is dedicated to empowering creatives to unlock their fullest potential and express themselves authentically. Her personal encounters with chronic diseases and mental health challenges have shaped her approach to healing, making her an advocate for cultivating a sense of safety within our bodies and minds. As an Afro-Latinx millennial woman, Lotus transforms her own healing journey into a narrative of deep pleasure and triumph, guiding others—especially Black womxn—back to the Feminine Divine to experience beauty within and around them.
Her impact extends to building global communities through her podcast, "LOTUSLIKE," which explores mental and spiritual wellness through ancestral storytelling. Certified in various modalities including NLP, EFT/TFT, Quantum Reiki, and Hypnotherapy, Lotus empowers Black creatives through energy work, meditation, and EFT. She hosts weekly EFT and meditation sessions on platforms like Insight Timer, reaching a global audience and providing tools for overcoming generational traumas and accessing inner strength. In This Episode We Discuss:
- Lotus's background, including her childhood, professional journey, and personal experiences that influenced her approach to healing.
- An introduction to Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), including what it is, how it works, and common issues it can help address.
- A walkthrough of a basic EFT tapping session, including key points to focus on.
- Practical tips for incorporating EFT into daily routines and using it to overcome generational traumas and access inner strength.
- Advice for entrepreneurs, creatives, and founders on maintaining mental and emotional well-being while navigating the demands of their careers.
Chapters 0:00 Show Intro 3:32 How We Met 4:48 Lotus’s Journey 11:13 Diagnosed With an Autoimmune Disease & Mental Health Illness 19:21 Certification in Various Healing Modalities 21:00 Uplifting BIPOC Creatives 22:44 The Power of Self-Healing 24:27 Building a Community of Conscious Beings 26:59 A Deep Dive into EFT Tapping 35:48 Using EFT to Combat Stress & Anxiety 37:21 Using EFT to Overcome Generational Trauma 41:48 The Role of Mindfulness in EFT Practice 43:57 Getting Started with Incorporating EFT Into Your Self-care Routine 51:23 Advice on Maintaining Mental and Emotional Well-being While Navigating the Demands of Your Career 55:05 Stay Connected With Lotus Keep Up With Lotus
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
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19. How to Bounce Back From Burnout with Amanda Baudier
In this episode of the Not So CEO podcast, we dive deep into the crucial topic of burnout and recovery with Amanda Baudier. Amanda shares invaluable insights and practical advice on recognizing, managing, and recovering from burnout, particularly for entrepreneurs and founders. She emphasizes the importance of integrating mindfulness, meditation, and spirituality into daily routines to foster resilience and enhance overall well-being.
About Amanda
Amanda Baudier is a "Becoming Coach" who works with Founders & Executives at the intersection of business and spirituality. Amanda spent 20 years scaling globally recognized companies including Tao Group, Sakara Life, and Melissa Wood Health. Concurrently, she immersed herself in studying spirituality and wellness -- receiving certifications in Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga Therapy, Holistic Nutrition, Somatic Experiencing, and more. She is also the co-host of the Full Plate Full Cup podcast where she interviews inspirational creatives and businesspeople to go behind the scenes of their "hero's journey." After 21 years in NYC, Amanda recently moved with her husband and 2 children to a 20-acre homestead in the Shawangunk Mountains where she runs a private coaching practice and leads healing retreats. A forever student, Amanda is currently apprenticing under a local shaman and soaking up the endless wisdom of nature.
In This Episode We Discuss:
- Amanda's journey from being burnt-out to Becoming Coach.
- Recognizing burnout early and identifying the signs to take preventative action.
- Immediate actions for recovery when feeling burnt out, especially for entrepreneurs and founders.
- The role of mindfulness and meditation in managing stress and preventing burnout, with recommended techniques and routines.
- Explanation of somatic experiencing and its benefits for burnout recovery.
- Integrating spirituality into daily life to enhance well-being and build resilience against burnout, with practical tips for fostering a supportive spiritual practice.
Chapters
0:00 Show Introduction
4:05 Amanda’s Story & Background
11:45 The Beginning of Burnout
14:07 Diagnosis & Heart Surgery
17:17 The Journey to Healing
25:35 Making Rest a Responsibility
28:30 The Connection Between the Parasympathetic Nervous System and Digestive System
35:27 High Functioning Anxiety and Hypervigilance
42:59 On Being a Becoming Coach and Working With Founders
52:40 Recognizing Early Signs of Burnout
55:14 Immediate Actions to Recover From Burnout
1:05:46 Meditation & Mindfulness Tools to Combat Burnout
1:10:58 How Somatic Experiencing Helps You Recover From Burnout
1:16:56 Connect or Work with Amanda
Follow Amanda Online
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
Follow Not So CEO on Instagram and Tiktok

18. From Pivot to Prosper with Tricia Lee of Netflix's Owning Manhattan
Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Tricia Lee, a powerhouse in the Brooklyn real estate market and former beauty entrepreneur. Tricia shares her incredible journey from founding the popular Polish Bar Brooklyn to becoming one of the top real estate brokers in New York City. With her sharp business acumen, tech-savvy strategies, and dedication to community, Tricia offers invaluable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone looking to make a significant career pivot.
About Tricia Lee Tricia Lee is a well-respected Brooklyn resident with a deep appreciation for the borough's rich history and dynamic neighborhoods. She first made her mark as the owner of Polish Bar Brooklyn, a popular chain of nail and beauty bars she operated for over a decade in Fort Greene/Clinton Hill and Prospect Heights. As a successful business owner and active community member, Tricia played a significant role in various merchants' associations, directly connecting commercial development with residential trends in Brooklyn. Her sharp business acumen, tireless work ethic, and tech-savvy approach have been vital in her transition to the real estate industry. Tricia has sold over $300 million in property, hitting record-breaking sales in her first year and setting townhouse sale records in multiple Brooklyn neighborhoods. Partnering with Jeff St. Arromand, she formed Team Tricia Lee, known for their innovative marketing skills and exceptional client negotiations.
Tricia is deeply committed to her community, serving on the Board of Advisors for Clinton Hill's V-ELMS, being a founding member of the Myrtle Avenue Merchants Association, and participating in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. She is also a wellness enthusiast, avid traveler, and lover of cooking, hosting, and beauty. In her spare time, Tricia reviews beauty products and explores DIY home trends. Currently, Tricia shares her real estate journey as a cast member of the Netflix series "Owning Manhattan," premiering June 28th. Her professional dedication and community involvement make her a go-to resource for neighborhood knowledge and real estate expertise.
In This Episode We Discuss:
- Managing emotional and practical aspects of falling out of love with your business.
- The importance of not being afraid to start over and finding the courage to pursue a new dream.
- How to dive into a new industry and achieve significant success.
- Importance of real estate investment for women and how they can start, regardless of their relationship status.
- Leveraging real estate to build wealth in marginalized communities.
- The advantages and disadvantages of buying and renting.
Chapters
0:00 Introduction
05:17: Netflix’s Owning Manhattan Premiere
08:24 Tricia’s Background
14:16 Breaking into the Beauty Industry
21:18 Falling Out of Love With Your First Business
24:25 Pivoting From Beauty to Breaking into Real Estate
30:34 The Process of Shutting Down One Business to Build Another
37:14 Finding the Courage to Start Over
38:46 Advice on Pivoting Careers
46:34 Women's Empowerment Through Real Estate
53:25 Purchasing Homes With Friends
57:59 Marginalized Communities Leveraging Real Estate to Their Advantage
01:02:41 Should You Rent or Should You Own?
01:07:04 Tips for For Those Interested In Being a First-Time Homeowner
01:15:30 Supporting Tricia’s Endeavors
01:17:31 Closing Remarks & Outro
Keep Up With Trisha Lee Instagram
Watch Owning Manhattan on Netflix
Follow Owning Manhattan on Instagram
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
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17. Creating What Doesn't Exist with Renae Bluitt of She Did That.
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Renae Bluitt, a dynamic storyteller, brand consultant, a tireless advocate for Black women entrepreneurs, and the Founder of She Did That. Renae shares her journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship and her pioneering work in amplifying the voices of Black female founders. Tune in to hear Renae's insights on creating what doesn't exist, building supportive ecosystems, securing funding, and prioritizing mental wellness for Black entrepreneurs.
About Renae Bluitt Renae L. Bluitt is a New York City-based storyteller who serves as a champion and advocate for Black women entrepreneurs. With years of unique experience, Renae has gained valuable insight into Black women entrepreneurs' narratives — a passion she channeled into her first film as Creator and Executive Producer of the documentary, She Did That. The film, which streamed on Netflix and is currently available on Amazon Prime Video, offers an up-close and personal look at Black women in business, addressing topics like mental wellness and the funding gap for women of color. The popularity of the documentary inspired Renae's creation of the She Did That. podcast in 2021, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. In addition to telling entrepreneurial stories, Renae also produces the She Did That. Holiday Bazaar each year featuring over 50 Black women-owned brands. The New York City marketplace is entering its 7th year and has been named the must-attend shopping event of the season. Renae’s passion for creating ecosystems for Black founders does not stop here. As the Supervising Producer for seasons two and three of REVOLT TV and Target’s pitch competition show, Bet on Black, she is responsible for hand-selecting and preparing Black founders to compete for a cash prize and the coveted opportunity to present their brands to our community's most impactful entrepreneurs.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Renae’s colorful journey from a corporate employee to a full-time entrepreneur.
- Practical steps for founders to bring their visions to life and succeed in spaces where they may not see themselves represented.
- Advice on creating supportive ecosystems and networks for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Effective strategies for founders to secure funding despite the well-documented funding gap.
- Different approaches to maintaining mental wellness.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & How We Met 07:19 Renae's Background and Journey into Corporate 14:45 From Employee to Entrepreneur 18:58 Amplifying Black Women Through Blogging and Events 23:47 Fiming She Did That. and the Impactful Stories Along the Way 29:08 Connecting Audiences Through Podcasting 31:42 Being Okay With Changing Your Mind & Doing What You Love 43:50 How Building A Marketplace for Black Entrepreneurs Built a Community 48:57 The Funding Gap for Black Women 54:14 Effective Strategies for Securing Funding & Acquisitions 1:07:04 Cultivating Supportive Communities & Networks Despite Feeling Isolated 1:13:17 The Importance of Prioritizing Your Mental Health 1:20:40 Practical Steps to Bringing Your Ideas to Life
Where to Find Renae Online
Watch the She Did That. Film HERE
She Did That. Podcast Episode with Bea Dixon of Honey Pot
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
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16. officehrs: Did They Steal Your Idea or Were You Just Sitting On It?
Have you ever experienced that gut-wrenching feeling when you see your idea out there, but it wasn’t you who put it into the world? Did they steal your idea or were you just sitting on it? In this segment of officehrs, we’re navigating the murky waters of originality and understanding where ideas truly come from.
We'll explore my personal journey with copycats, how to deal with them, how to identify the fine line between inspiration and imitation, and we’ll review the concept that no idea is truly original, inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's insightful title, "Big Magic."
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- My personal experience in dealing with copycats. The emotional toll and professional consequences of being copied.
- Effective methods for handling copycats.
- Industry trends and the difference between inspiration and imitation.
- The importance of professionalism, innovation, and community support.
- Strategies to act on ideas, overcome procrastination, and foster creativity.
- The concept that no idea is original.
Chapters
0:00 Dealing with a Copycat on the Internet
3:20 Dealing with a Copycat in My Company
20:28 The Lesson I Needed to Learn
22:05 How to Tell When Someone is Copying Your Work
23:47: The Emotional and Professional Impact of Being Copied
27:17 Different Ways to Handle Copycats Effectively
29:08 The Importance of Maintaining Professionalism and Focusing on Your Own Growth
30:26 The Role of Trends
31:39: Defining the Fine Line Between Inspiration and Imitation
33:48 Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert & The Myth of Originality
36:54 How to Embrace and Nurture Your Ideas
39:06 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE

15. Giving Yourself Grace While Working Through Grief with Rachel Cargle of the Loveland Group
Navigating grief is never easy, especially when balancing the demands of life and work. In this heartfelt and enlightening episode, we sit down with Rachel Cargle, an Ohio-born writer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose impactful work at the intersection of race and womanhood has inspired many. Rachel shares her journey of finding grace and resilience amid personal loss, offering profound insights into how we can care for ourselves while supporting others and working through grief. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, compassion, and actionable advice on giving yourself grace while navigating the complexities of grief and professional life.
About Rachel
Rachel is an Ohio-born writer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Her work exists at the intersection of race and womanhood where she explores the question of what it means to be well in the world. This theme is written about in Her book A Renaissance of Our Own: A Memoir and Manifesto on Reimagining published in 2019 with Penguin RandomHouse. In 2019 she founded The Loveland Foundation, a community-focused non-profit that provides free access to mental health care for Black women and girls across the US providing over 72k hours of therapy to over 10k participants thus far. Her bookstore Elizabeth's Bookshop and Writing Centre lives in her hometown of Akron Ohio and exists as a community hub that works to highlight, promote, amplify, celebrate, and honor the work of writers who are often excluded from traditional cultural, social, and academic canons. Rachel lives between Akron, Ohio where she stewards her late grandmother's bungalow house on a hill, and Kingston, Jamaica where she stewards a home next to the river -- an ongoing reminder of just how sweet life can get.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Rachel’s background and the interconnection between her entrepreneurial ventures.
- Practical approaches to managing grief and mental health while continuing to run and grow a business.
- Tips on giving yourself grace during difficult times and ensuring self-care while supporting others.
- How to foster strong, supportive communities that help navigate grief and mental health struggles.
- Encouragement and strategies for dealing with personal loss while achieving professional milestones.
Follow Rachel and Her Ventures on Instagram
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
Follow Not So CEO on Socials

14. officehrs: Can I Pick Your Brain Over Coffee?
In this episode, it’s time for officehrs and we’re delving into the one phrase that can make any creative or founder cringe, “Can I pick your brain over coffee?”
Maybe early in your career, you said yes to every coffee date only to see how draining it is to have your brain picked over time constantly.
There’s a difference between free game and free drain and we’re diving into the art of brain-picking from the perspective of both the brain picker and the brain pickee.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Britt's personal experiences with having her brain picked.
- The impact of brain-picking on your time and energy as well as the emotional toll it takes on your well-being.
- How to set boundaries and find alternative ways to offer assistance while maximizing your time.
- The best practices on how to politely ask to pick someone's brain.
Chapters
0:00 Intro to Episode
2:23 Personal Experiences
5:09 The Impact of Brain Picking on Your Time and Energy
6:03 The Importance of Setting Boundaries
6:32 Different Ways to Offer Help
8:16 How to Politely Ask to Pick Someone’s Brain
12:29 Conclusion
Get the Making the Brand Workbook HERE
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE
Follow Not So CEO on Tiktok and Instagram @notsoceo

13. Finding the Chill in Your Business with Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton of Chillhouse
It’s time to take a chill pill. In this refreshing episode of the Not So CEO Talk Show, we sit down with Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton, the founder of Chillhouse, to explore how entrepreneurs can infuse self-care and wellness into their hectic lives. Cyndi shares her journey of creating a modern sanctuary for self-care, offering invaluable insights on maintaining balance, overcoming challenges, and building a distinctive brand in today's fast-paced world.
About Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton
Born and raised in New York City, Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton is the founder & CEO of self-care brand, Chillhouse. She is also the First Lady of the hospitality brand, The Garret Group, where her husband is the founding partner.
Chillhouse was born when Ramirez-Fulton realized the city didn’t offer an aspirational massage place that was affordable. Reflecting on her upbringing as the daughter of an esthetician, Cyndi opened Chillhouse in 2017 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and was immediately remarked as one of the most innovative wellness brands of that time. Chillhouse currently has a flagship in Soho that offers a spa service suite. In addition to its physical destination, Chillhouse has a line of products ranging from press-ons to body care. The brand is carried by Target, Saks, Urban Outfitters, Shopbop & more.
Ramirez has been honored on Create & Cultivate's 100 list, WWD’s 40 of Tomorrow, Nylon’s Inventor of the Year, Guest of a Guest 20 Hottest CEOs, and has appeared in campaigns with Nike, Fossil, amongst others. Additionally, she has been featured in Vogue, the Drew Barrymore Show, Forbes, CNN, WWD, Arch Digest, and more. She splits her time between Manhattan & Miami with her husband and their kids Hendrix and Stevie.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Cyndi’s background and what led her to become an entrepreneur.
- How Cyndi developed Chillhouse’s unique blend of wellness and self-care, and its importance in today's fast-paced world.
- Defining, identifying, and resonating with your target market.
- Strategies for balancing work and personal life, and advice for other entrepreneurs on integrating wellness into their routines.
- Insights and tips on raising capital to grow your business.
- Advice on creating a distinctive brand identity and standing out in a competitive industry.
Follow Cyndi & Chillhouse on Instagram
Grab the Making the Brand Workbook HERE.
Book a 1:1 officehrs session with Brittany of Not So CEO HERE. Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper HERE Follow Not So CEO on Instagram and Tiktok

12. Why Be A Sad Girl When You Can Be A Bad One with Priscilla O. Agyeman, MPH of Saddie Baddies
Your mental health is your wealth. In this inspiring episode of the Not So CEO Talk Show, we sit down with the remarkable Priscilla O. Agyeman, MPH, to delve into her journey as a creative entrepreneur and mental health advocate. Priscilla is the founder of Saddie Baddies™, a virtual safe space dedicated to destigmatizing mental health and promoting collective healing among Black and multiracial communities. Join us as we explore the story behind Saddie Baddies™, the challenges and triumphs of building a community-centered brand, and the importance of mental health awareness in entrepreneurship.
About Priscilla O. Agyeman, MPH: Priscilla O. Agyeman, MPH (she/her) is a dynamic creative entrepreneur, digital strategist, and thought leader. She is the founder of Saddie Baddies™, a platform committed to bridging the gap between mental health awareness and minority communities through digital discourse, podcasts, workshops, live events, and creative collaborations. With a Bachelor's degree in Biology from St. John's University and a Master's in Public Health in Global Health from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Priscilla's academic and professional background is deeply rooted in community care and mental health advocacy. She has conducted pioneering research on the mental health of children detained at the U.S.-South Texas border and uses her platform to discuss critical public health issues like Black maternal health, social justice, and gender-based violence.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Priscilla’s background, what led her to become an entrepreneur, and the creation of Saddie Baddies™.
- The importance of normalizing conversations about mental and emotional health.
- Cultivating and nurturing a community and its role in the business model.
- Strategies and resources for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges while growing a business.
- Staying true to your mission while growing and incorporating social impact into your business.
Follow Priscilla & Saddie Baddies on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/priscilla.o.agyeman/
https://www.instagram.com/saddie_baddies/
https://www.instagram.com/thesoftlifepod/
Follow Not So CEO on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/notsoceo
Subscribe to the Not So CEO newsletter The Paper

11. officehrs: Perfectionism is a Form of Procrastination
It’s time for officehrs and we're diving deep into how "Perfectionism is a Form of Procrastination". We'll discuss how waiting for the perfect moment, over-planning, and constantly comparing yourself to others can hold you back. We’ll also cover the signs of perfectionism paralysis and share practical tips on how to combat it.

10. Water Cooler Convo with Yasmine Jameelah of Transparent Black Girl
On this episode of the Not So CEO Talk Show, we're having Water Cooler Convo with Yasmine Jameelah.
A CEO, Founder, wellness advocate, and multimedia journalist creating healing spaces for the Black community through her wellness collective Transparent & Black, which has a reach of over 5 million Black women.
This Jersey native's work has been featured by Nike, ASICS, McDonald’s TPH By Taraji, Oprah Daily, Essence Magazine, BET, The New York Times, and more.
With over 10+ years of community-building experience, Yasmine dedicates herself to reclaiming space for the marginalized.
I got the chance to catch up with Yasmine on all things work and wellness just in time for Mental Health Awareness Month. Pour up and join us for some Water Cooler Convo.

9. Water Cooler Convo with Taylor Baldwin of Mama Photog
In this conversation, we’re in great company with Taylor Baldwin who you may know as Mama Photog and if you don’t know who Mama Photog is, then you might want to get familiar.
From her resonant storytelling to her perspective behind the lens, Taylor Baldwin is a visionary capturing the essence of Black women being on and off camera.
Specializing in photography, video, and content creation her impactful work is shifting and shaping narratives for the misrepresented with beauty, grace, style, and authenticity.
Taylor’s notable approach to film has been spotted in publications like Essence, CRWN Mag, W Magazine, Refinery 29, Complex, and many more.
A mother first and creative second, Taylor is a breath of fresh air with her unwavering vulnerability, taking us on an intimate journey of the ups and downs in her single and lover girl eras.
In the current midst of a pivot, she shows us that she’s more than just a mama behind the camera, but a multidimensional creative who’s basking in the bliss of curating a place called “Home”.

8. Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe with Big Spirit Energy
To have successful friendships, you need to be your friend first. Join me as I sit down with Content Strategist and Beauty Influencer @bigspiritenergy while uncovering the importance of developing your vibe to attract friendships and relationships in alignment with the best version of yourself. In this episode, we deep dive into:
- Defining your vibe.
- What to do when you're the problem.
- Taking back control of your life, energy, and emotions.
- Defining relationships and friendships.
- Categorizing your friend groups.
- Red flags and green flags in relationships.
- What to do when a friendship turns toxic.
- How do you take care of yourself during a breakup, and how to heal?
- How to move forward and build better relationships, circles, and communities?
Download the FREE Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe Workbook:
https://bit.ly/3RcdTZu

7. officehrs: The B In Business Stands for Boundaries
Just in case you need a refresher once in a blue moon, this officehrs episode is here to remind you that the B in Business Stands for Boundaries. Just like our personal relationships can impact our well-being, so can our professional ones. In this short episode, host Brittany A. deep dives into:
- Defining the term boundary and the different types.
- How boundaries show up in business and our day-to-day.
- Signs you may have poor business boundaries.
- The boundaries you should create in your business to create balance in your life.

6. officehrs: Why You Should Start Treating Yourself Like Your Own Client
Bad business begins when putting yourself first comes last; after all you can't pour from an empty cup. When working as a service-provider opposed to a brand, it's easy to shift laser-focus on the deliverables you're providing rather than the direction of your company's future. The solution? It's all about treating yourself like your first client! In this segment I breakdown the significance of investing time and energy into your brand opposed to hiding behind the work you provide so you can thrive and shine.

5. officehrs: How People Pleasing Can Ruin Professional Relationships
Raise your hand if you're a recovering people pleaser. There's a thin line between being kind and being a doormat, and in this Office Hrs segment we uncover how being a people pleaser is detrimental to your professional success and ruin your business endeavors. Besides, who has time to be nice when you have bills to pay?

4. Why Your Human Design Is Your Business with Laura OG of SMKBRK
In Episode 4 of the Not So CEO Talkshow, we're graced by the presence of the Royal Highness herself, Laura OG, designer of many disciplines and CEO of SMKBRK. From weed, to work, to wellness we interviewed Laura on her multi-hyphenate professional journey and her pivot from Graphic Design into Human Design. A new culturally cosmic phenom has hit our IG feeds with terms like Generators and Projectors, and Laura breaks it all down covering the basics of Human Design and how to harness and leverage your unique energy type in work and wellness.

3. The Power of Making Space a Ritual with Rebekah Love of Organize For Love

2. officehrs: Burnout, Breakdowns, & Breakthroughs

1. officehrs: From Agency Owner to Not So CEO
From Agency Owner to Not So CEO, in the kickoff episode of my newest talkshow I share the hard truths and transformations I've stumbled upon during my creative entrepreneurial journey. Find out how I started my design career with nearly 0 experience and $0, how I scaled into a creative agency with a team of 20; only to get burnt out 5 years and why I scaled down to a team of 1. Tune in and join me for a ride on a mission to battle the harsh realities of balancing being self-made with self-care.