Build Black Show | Business Growth & Entrepreneurship

Episodes

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  Episode 21: The Power of Franchising: A Proven Path to Black Owned Start-Up Success & Business Growth 18.08.2026 34m

  Episode 21: The Power of Franchising: A Proven Path to Start-Up Success & Business Growth What if entrepreneurship didn’t have to mean building a business from scratch? In this episode of **The Build Black Show**, we sit down with **Robert Cvetkovski, CEO of Jon Smith Subs**, and franchisee **Daniel Nunn** for a powerful conversation about **franchising, start-up opportunities, business growth, and entrepreneurship**. Robert shares why he believes the franchise model can give aspiring entrepreneurs a stronger foundation for success—and why creating opportunities for **Black entrepreneurs and underserved communities** is an important part of growing the Jon Smith Subs brand. Daniel brings the conversation to life from the franchisee perspective, discussing what it means to step into business ownership with an established brand, proven systems, operational support, and a business model designed to scale. We explore the difference between starting a business from zero and investing in a franchise, what prospective franchise owners should understand before making the leap, and how the right franchise opportunity can provide a roadmap for long-term growth. **In this episode:** * Why franchising can be a powerful path into entrepreneurship * The advantages of a proven business model versus starting from scratch * How franchise systems support start-up and business growth * What entrepreneurs should look for in a franchise opportunity * Robert's vision for expanding opportunities for Black entrepreneurs * Daniel's experience as a franchisee * Building wealth through business ownership * What it really takes to grow and operate a successful franchise If you've been thinking about **starting a business, buying a franchise, creating generational wealth, or finding a proven path into entrepreneurship**, this conversation is for you. **The Build Black Show — no gatekeeping. Just the blueprints for building, owning, growing, and creating legacy.** Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 20: How Jennine Labuzan's Geneaology Research Helped A Federal Judge Say YES To Her Suing The U.S. Government! 11.08.2026 36m

  What if researching your family tree uncovered more than names and birth records? What if it uncovered land? On this episode of The Build Black Show, historical researcher Jennine Labuzan joins us for a fascinating conversation about genealogy, federal land patents, ancestral property rights, and why she believes more Black Americans should investigate the records connected to their own family histories. Jennine’s personal genealogy journey led her to documents involving her third-great-grandfather, Charles A. Labuzan, and an 1840 federal land patent. That discovery ultimately became part of an ongoing legal battle over property in Mississippi. In 2026, she filed a federal Quiet Title Act case against the United States, and a federal judge recently denied the government’s motion to dismiss that case. Fresh off a recent feature on #RolandMartinUnfiltered, Jennine sits down with The Build Black Show to walk through the research that changed the way she saw her family history. We discuss land patents, genealogy, public records, ancestral land, Black land loss, generational wealth, family documentation, and the questions descendants may need to start asking. This episode isn’t just about one family’s fight. It raises a much bigger question: How much of our family history—and possibly our inheritance—have we simply never researched? This conversation may have you searching your grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ names before the episode is over. The discussion reflects the guest’s research, experiences, interpretations and ongoing legal claims and should not be considered legal advice. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 19: Investing While Black | Breaking the Barriers to Wealth 04.08.2026 39m

  Making money is one thing. Knowing how to invest it, protect it, and make it work toward your future is something entirely different. In Episode 19 of The Build Black Show, financial advisor Jose “Dre” Martin of Edward Jones joins us for a practical conversation about investing, financial planning, and building wealth with intention. We break down why so many people delay investing, how fear and confusion can keep families from building long-term wealth, and why you do not have to be rich—or know everything about the stock market—to begin creating a financial strategy. This conversation is especially important for entrepreneurs and business owners who spend years building companies but may not have developed a personal plan for retirement, investments, and financial security outside of the business. Whether you are a new investor, restarting your financial journey, or looking for smarter ways to plan for the future, this episode will help you think differently about your money. Because earning income pays today’s bills. Investing with a plan can help build tomorrow’s freedom. This episode is provided for educational purposes and should not be considered personalized financial or investment advice. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 18: Comedian Rodney Perry: When Jokes Pay the Bills—and Saves Your Life! 28.07.2026 27m

  Veteran comedian and actor Rodney Perry joins The Build Black Show for a powerful conversation about comedy, money, family, longevity, and the health scare that forced him to reconsider everything. Rodney’s career has taken him from performing during his time in the United States Navy to national television, major comedy stages, film roles, writing, producing, and mentoring emerging talent. His credits include ComicView, Def Comedy Jam, Who’s Got Jokes?, BET’s The Mo’Nique Show, Bounce TV’s Off the Chain, and Madea’s Big Happy Family. In this candid interview, Rodney explains how comedy became much more than entertainment. His jokes paid bills, supported his lifestyle, and helped put his children through school. He also reveals what it really takes to survive in the comedy business when applause does not always translate into ownership, stability, or long-term wealth. Rodney then shares the frightening health crisis that became a wake-up call. After suffering a near-fatal stroke, he was forced to confront the physical price of constantly working, traveling, and pushing forward without placing the same value on his health. It is an unforgettable conversation about turning a gift into income, building a decades-long career, caring for your family, and learning that your health must remain part of your definition of success. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 17: He Built a $1M Vape Business From His Garage | Marc Pitts 21.07.2026 39m

  Episode 17 of The Build Black Show features Marc Pitts, co-founder of Discount Vape Pen, who shares how he turned a $100 business started in his garage into a million-dollar online company. Marc takes us behind the scenes of building a business in one of the most controversial and heavily regulated industries in America. He opens up about recognizing the opportunity, growing the company online, overcoming the stigma surrounding vaping, and accepting the responsibility that comes with selling age-restricted products. We also discuss underage vaping, changing regulations, legal compliance, customer trust, and the decisions that helped Marc grow from a small startup into a seven-figure e-commerce operation. This conversation explores what entrepreneurs can learn from Marc’s journey—including testing an idea before spending heavily, listening to the market, adapting to change, and continuing to build even when people question the industry you have chosen. Whether you agree with the vaping industry or not, Marc Pitts’ story is an honest look at entrepreneurship, controversy, responsibility, and what it takes to grow a business from almost nothing. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 16: Should Black Americans Stop Voting? 14.07.2026 50m

  Should Black Americans keep voting... or is it time to boycott elections the same way consumers boycott major corporations? In this powerful roundtable episode of The Build Black Show, the crew steps away from guest interviews to tackle one of the most controversial conversations happening in America. Following the latest news surrounding the Election Assistance Commission, we explore what voting means today, whether elections can still create meaningful change, and why some entrepreneurs believe building businesses may have a greater long-term impact than political participation. Inside this episode we discuss: • Should Black America continue voting? • Is refusing to vote a legitimate form of protest? • Are economic boycotts more powerful than political ones? • Does business ownership create more freedom than politics? • Can entrepreneurship shift communities faster than elections? • What role should the next generation play in shaping the future? This isn't about telling you what to believe. It's about asking the difficult questions most people avoid. Whether you believe voting is essential, think the system is broken, or simply want to hear thoughtful perspectives from successful Black entrepreneurs, this episode will challenge your assumptions. The Build Black Show is where Black entrepreneurs, founders, creators, investors and business leaders come together to discuss ownership, media authority, wealth creation, entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership and economic empowerment. Follow & Subscribe Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 15: Stop Gatekeeping Yourself — Latavious Brini on Pro-Football, Love & Living His Dream 07.07.2026 33m

  In Episode 15 of The Build Black Show, we interview pro football player Latavious Brini about his journey through football, his upbringing, the influence of his grandmother, and the mindset it takes to keep chasing a dream. Latavious shares how love, discipline, family, and purpose have shaped the way he shows up on and off the field. He talks about what it means to lead with love, why his grandmother’s impact still guides him, and why people must stop gatekeeping themselves from their own potential. This conversation is for anyone who has ever had a dream but talked themselves out of going after it. It is for the athlete, the entrepreneur, the creator, the founder, and the person who knows there is more inside of them. On The Build Black Show, we spotlight real stories of ownership, business growth, media authority, visibility, branding, leadership, wealth-building, and legacy. This episode is a reminder that sometimes the biggest gatekeeper is not the world. Sometimes it is you. Stop gatekeeping yourself. The dream is still possible. #businesstips #smallbusinessmarketing #businessmindset #buildblackshow #businessmindset #creatorbusiness #blackowned #businesssalesstrategy #blackentrepreneurs #creatorbusiness Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 14: Tai Vann: From MMA Fighter to Community Builder 30.06.2026 54m

  Episode 14 of The Build Black Show features Tai “Rottweiler” Vann, a former MMA fighter turned Orlando news professional, fitness trainer, youth mentor, and founder of V-Elite Sports Performance & Fitness. Tai’s journey is about more than fighting in the cage. It is about fighting through a rough upbringing, changing his mindset, building his character, and refusing to let his past decide his future. In this episode, Tai shares how determination opened the door to a breakthrough opportunity at an Orlando news station and how that same discipline helped him build a business rooted in fitness, youth development, and community impact. This conversation speaks directly to Black entrepreneurs, small business owners, founders, creators, coaches, trainers, and leaders who understand that business growth starts with personal growth. Tai breaks down the importance of mindset, structure, discipline, confidence, ownership, and giving back. If you are building your brand, your business, your body, your character, or your next chapter, this episode will remind you that transformation is not just about where you came from. It is about who you decide to become. The Build Black Show, hosted by Coach Swan Simpson, spotlights Black entrepreneurs and leaders building ownership, visibility, wealth, business growth, branding, media authority, and community impact. #blackbusinesstips #smallbusinessmarketing #businessmindset #buildblackshow #businessmindset #creatorbusiness #swansimpson #businesssalesstrategy #blackentrepreneurs #creatorbusiness Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 13: NOT JUST A FAN — AN OWNER Jawad Yatim and The Business of Football 23.06.2026 25m

  Jawad Yatim, founder, CEO, and general manager of the Orlando Pirates, joins The Build Black Show to discuss the real business of owning a professional indoor football team, the challenges of leadership, the move to Orlando, and his next-level vision of one day working with the NFL. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 12: The Faith Story Behind Soulicious Vegan Kitchen 17.06.2026 39m

  Vegan Kitchen, a vegan soul food restaurant in Apopka, Florida, built on faith, purpose, marriage, and healing. Tiffany shares how her personal health journey inspired her to embrace a more natural and holistic lifestyle, which eventually led to the creation of Soulicious Vegan Kitchen. What started as a decision to take better care of her body became a mission to serve others through plant-based comfort food. This episode also explores the reality of restaurant ownership — the long hours, the pressure, the sacrifices, and the faith required to keep building. Her husband shares what it meant to leave his job to help support his wife’s dream and turn their shared vision into a business rooted in God, love, and service. This is a powerful conversation for entrepreneurs, restaurant owners, married couples in business, faith-driven founders, and anyone who believes that purpose can come from personal pain. Topics include: Starting a vegan soul food restaurant Using food as part of a health and wellness journey The challenges of owning a restaurant Building a business with your spouse Faith, sacrifice, and entrepreneurship Turning a personal health journey into a purpose-driven brand #TheBuildBlackShow #SouliciousVeganKitchen #VeganSoulFood #BlackOwnedBusiness #FaithAndBusiness #RestaurantOwner #PlantBasedLifestyle #BlackEntrepreneurs #HusbandAndWifeBusiness #HolisticHealth Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 11: The Lost Episode: We Almost Changed Our Streaming Name 11.06.2026 46m

  Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded during a strategy conversation when we were considering the name Fan Fuel TV. Since recording, we made the decision to keep the name Black On Demand TV and move forward with the Black On Demand Mobile App because of our existing audience on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and our growing community base. We decided to release this lost episode anyway because it captures the real-time founder journey before our Juneteenth 2026 launch. Episode 11: The Lost Episode — We Almost Changed The Name… Then Gave The Community Free Shares In this powerful lost episode of The Build Black Show, we share the behind-the-scenes conversation that almost changed the future of Black On Demand TV. Originally recorded when we were considering the name Fan Fuel TV, this episode captures the real-time founder journey of building a Black-owned tech company, launching the Black On Demand Mobile App, and creating a new opportunity for the community to receive free shares ahead of our Juneteenth launch. After deeper strategy and reflection, we decided to keep the name Black On Demand TV because the brand already has a strong foundation through Roku and Amazon Fire TV, along with a growing audience of entrepreneurs, creators, business owners, and culture builders who believe in Black media ownership. This episode is about more than a possible name change. It is about Black ownership, community equity, media power, mobile technology, entrepreneurship, and building a platform that gives our stories, businesses, and voices a place to grow. We decided to release this lost episode because it shows the raw, honest process behind building a movement in public. The name almost changed, but the mission became even clearer. Topics covered: Black-owned tech, Black On Demand TV, mobile app launch, free community shares, Juneteenth business launch, Black media ownership, entrepreneurship, founder journey, Black creators, Roku TV, Amazon Fire TV, and community ownership. Hashtags: #BlackOnDemandTV #BuildBlackShow #BlackOwnedTech #BlackMediaOwnership #BlackBusiness #JuneteenthLaunch #CommunityOwnership #BlackCreators #MobileAppLaunch #OwnEverything Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 10: Why Can't We Work Together? A Real Conversation About Black Women & Community. 29.05.2026 1h 8m

  Black women possess extraordinary influence across business, politics, education, culture, and community leadership. Yet many continue to ask an important question: Why is collaboration often more difficult than it should be? In this episode of The Build Black Show, we explore the power of Black women, the challenges that can create division, and the opportunities that emerge when support replaces competition. Through candid discussion, we examine the impact of mentorship, networking, entrepreneurship, and community engagement on collective progress. We also highlight examples of successful collaboration, discuss the importance of healthy partnerships between Black men and Black women, and share practical strategies for building stronger personal brands, businesses, and communities. If you're passionate about leadership, Black wealth creation, entrepreneurship, community development, and legacy building, this conversation will challenge assumptions and inspire action. Subscribe to The Build Black Show for thought-provoking conversations on ownership, economic empowerment, leadership, culture, and building generational wealth. #BuildBlackShow #BlackWomenLeadership #BlackWealth #Entrepreneurship #BlackBusiness #CommunityLeadership #BlackCulture #WomenEntrepreneurs #EconomicEmpowerment #LegacyBuilding Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 9: From Homeless To Million Dollar Brand Using Klarna 21.05.2026 41m

  What happens when a man with a criminal past, prison time, and homelessness refuses to give up on himself?In Episode 9 of The Build Black Show, we sit down with Chef Andre Combs for one of the wildest and most inspiring comeback stories we’ve ever heard.Before becoming a successful restaurant owner and entrepreneur, Andre was connected to cartel life, got caught, went to prison, and eventually found himself homeless with no clear direction and very limited resources. But instead of folding under pressure, he used resourcefulness, discipline, and unconventional strategies — including leveraging Klarna during difficult times — to help rebuild his life and scale toward a million-dollar restaurant brand.This episode dives into:surviving prison and homelessnessrebuilding after losing everythingthe mindset shift from survival mode to business ownerusing creative financing and leverage to build a brandentrepreneurship, discipline, and second chancesrestaurant business lessonsturning pain into purposeovercoming setbacks and creating legacyThis is not a story about glorifying street life.It’s a story about transformation, accountability, resilience, and learning how to build something bigger than your past.If you’ve ever felt stuck, broke, overlooked, or counted out, this conversation will challenge the way you think about business, survival, and what’s possible when you refuse to quit.#blackbusinesstips    #smallbusinessmarketing  #businessmindset #buildblackshow #businessmindset #creatorbusiness #swansimpson #businesssalesstrategy #blackentrepreneurs #creatorbusinessSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep: 8 Vogue Is Stealing Black Culture Again… And We’re Tired Of It 14.05.2026 56m

  They called Tracee Ellis Ross's afro a "cloud bob." Nobody asked her. Nobody asked us. Around the fire pit on Episode 8, we talk about why owning your media, your beauty brands, and your narrative isn't optional — because the moment you let someone else name your crown, you've already lost the culture. #theafroisnotacloudbob #blackpodcast #podcastrecommendations #blackexcellence #vogue #traceeellisross #blackentrepreneur #blackowned #blackvoices #culturalappropriation Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 7: He Grew Up With Nothing — Now He's the Father 100 Kids Never Had 07.05.2026 46m

  In Episode 7 of The Build Black Show, we sit down with Leo Robinson and Samara Jules-Robinson — the husband-and-wife team behind Mentors for Fatherless Children & Abused Families. Leo opens up about growing up in the streets, living reckless, and nearly becoming another lost story. But everything changed when Samara entered his life and challenged him to become a better man, husband, and leader. Together, they turned pain into purpose by creating an organization dedicated to helping fatherless children, abused families, and underserved communities find guidance, healing, and hope. This episode dives into: Overcoming street life and destructive cycles The impact of strong women and strong partnerships Fatherhood, mentorship, and legacy building Healing trauma within families and communities Why Black leadership and community support matter now more than ever This is more than a redemption story. It’s a blueprint for transformation, accountability, and rebuilding the village. If you care about Black family empowerment, mentorship, community healing, leadership, and generational impact — this episode is a must-listen. #BuildBlack #BlackPodcast #Fatherhood #Mentorship #CommunityLeadership #BlackFamilies #LegacyBuilding #Healing #Entrepreneurship #NonprofitLeadership Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 6 The Black History They Hid… Is Repeating Right Now 30.04.2026 26m

  In this episode of The Build Black Show, we explore overlooked moments in Black history that carry urgent relevance today. From pivotal shifts in voting rights to lesser-known events that reshaped access to power, this conversation connects the past to the present in a way that demands attention. As new challenges emerge around civic access and representation, understanding these historical patterns becomes more than reflection—it becomes preparation. This episode breaks down how history informs strategy, why awareness is critical to progress, and what it takes to move forward with intention in uncertain times. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 5 Black Wealth Is Under Attack—Here’s the Blueprint to Protect It 23.04.2026 51m

  In a time of political division and economic uncertainty, what must Black communities do to protect their wealth, history, and future? On Episode 5 of The Build Black Show, media personality and historical preservationist Renee Gilmore breaks down the urgent need for self-reliance, strategic coalition building, and economic unity. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a blueprint for sustaining Black wealth and preserving legacy in a rapidly shifting America. “They’re rewriting history… are we prepared to protect our wealth?” Renee Gilmore reveals why self-reliance and economic unity are no longer optional—they’re survival strategies. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  The Build Black Show Ep 4: Atlanta's Black Economy Is Collapsing?! 16.04.2026 41m

  Antwan Nelson is making it a mandate for his inner circle to build black wealth. He is recreating a village that does what Atlanta tried to do and is now failing. Understanding how financial freedom goes beyong traditional networking, handing out business cards, over inflated egos, and wearing Brooks Brothers suits. Learn the blueprint for successfully creating and duplicating a black mecca economy in your city and around the world.#BuildBlackShow #BlackWealth #BlackEntrepreneurs #BlackBusinessOwners#EntrepreneurPodcast #BusinessPodcast #StartupStories #MotivationDaily #HustleCulture #SuccessMindsetSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  The Build Black Show Ep 3 09.04.2026 43m

  Jay Johnson joins us in the studio to talk about taking his barbering business to a different level. The founder of a 100% mobile barbershop custom built inside of a van. Keep that overhead low, the profits hight, and own everything! Learn how anyone can get started from wherever they are an never let adversity stop you from building black!#BuildBlackShow #BlackWealth #BlackEntrepreneurs #BlackBusinessOwners#EntrepreneurPodcast #BusinessPodcast #StartupStories #MotivationDaily #HustleCulture #SuccessMindsetSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  Ep 1 The 4% Ownership Gap 02.04.2026 34m

  The Build Black Show is a business podcast for entrepreneurs focused on wealth building, financial freedom, and ownership. Hosted by Coach Swan Simpson, each episode delivers real strategies on startups, side hustles, investing, and scaling income. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/build-black/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy