Jaylen D. Bledsoe

Digital Prosperity Pipeline- Your AI-Powered Wealth Blueprint Pt 1 of 6 Let’s talk about the elephant in the room - As Black women entrepreneurs, we've been told success requires grinding 24/7, sacrificing everything, and playing by rules that weren't written for us. But what if I told you AI could change that game entirely? I remember staring at my laptop at 3 AM, exhausted from juggling client calls, admin work, and content creation. That breaking point became my breakthrough moment. Today,

Digital Prosperity Pipeline- Your AI-Powered Wealth Blueprint Pt 1 of 6 Let’s talk about the elephant in the room - As Black women entrepreneurs, we've been told success requires grinding 24/7, sacrificing everything, and playing by rules that weren't written for us. But what if I told you AI could change that game entirely? I remember staring at my laptop at 3 AM, exhausted from juggling client calls, admin work, and content creation. That breaking point became my breakthrough moment. Today,

🌟 Elevating Black Creators at SXSW! 🌟 We all know the challenges and triumphs that come with being a creator, but imagine having a playbook designed just for us. That’s why I’m excited to share our panel pitch: “Visibility & Wealth: The Black Creator's Playbook” This isn't just another panel; it’s a blueprint for navigating and conquering the creator economy. Here’s what we’re bringing to the table: 🧠 Meet the Game Changers: Alaina Fingal of The Organized Money, who turns budgeting into an art form. LaShonda Brown, the powerhouse behind Bootstrap Biz Advice, transforming tech for creators. Damien Ritter, the strategic genius managing #BiggJah. And me, Uzo Ometu, your guide and Founder of BlackOakTV. 📊 What You’ll Gain: - Strategies to overcome algorithmic barriers and boost your visibility. - Insights on building a community that’s more than just numbers. - Advanced monetization tactics that go beyond what’s obvious. 🔥 Why You Should Care: Because this is about more than just surviving in the creator economy; it’s about thriving and setting new benchmarks for success. We’re here to uplift, educate, and empower. 🗳️ Your Vote Matters: We’re committed to making a difference, but we need your support to get to SXSW. Cast your vote and join us in redefining what’s possible for Black creators! Vote for our panel here: https://lnkd.in/eyqgQ3M3 Let’s make this vision a reality!

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5 Power-Packed Entrepreneurship Lessons from an HBCU Grad and Tech Startup Founder 🚀 I recently watched the Forbes interview with Dr. Benjamin Harvey, the Founder & CEO of AI Squared. As a proud HBCU grad from Mississippi Valley State University and Bowie State University, Dr. Harvey shares some 🔥 insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are my key takeaways from his journey: 1️⃣ Embrace Financial Literacy 💵 - Dr. Harvey emphasizes understanding profit and loss statements. Even with a technical background, knowing your numbers is crucial. 2️⃣ Identify and Solve Critical Gaps 🔍 - He noticed that 90% of AI technologies weren’t being used effectively. By addressing this, he created a solution to bridge the last mile in AI implementation. 3️⃣ Leverage Diverse Experiences 🌍 - From the NSA to Silicon Valley, Dr. Harvey gained valuable insights from both sectors. These experiences enriched his problem-solving skills. 4️⃣ Build a Strong Network 🤝 - Connecting with key individuals and organizations, like Databricks and investors, was vital for AI Squared’s growth. Networking opens doors and provides support. 5️⃣ Adapt and Evolve 🌱 - Facing financial challenges, Dr. Harvey had to pivot and adapt his strategies. Resilience and flexibility are key to overcoming obstacles and sustaining your business. These lessons from Dr. Harvey's journey are inspiring and actionable for anyone looking to make their mark in the tech world and in business. 🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e4cc3qqV #HBCU #Entrepreneurship #TechStartup #AI #FinancialLiteracy, #Networking #CareerGrowth #BlackExcellence

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Converge Media Launches Campaign to Support Black Businesses in Crisis Seattle, Washington – January 13, 2025 – Converge Media LLC today announced the launch of an urgent 60-day campaign to support Black-owned businesses struggling in the current economic climate. The initiative will leverage Converge Media's extensive media resources and community connections to raise awareness, drive business, and support Black businesses across the region. "Black businesses are facing a crisis right now, and we're hearing their calls for help," said Winfield Ezell, Jr., Chief Storyteller at Converge Media. "As a community-based media organization, we are responsible for stepping up and supporting our Black neighbors and businesses. This campaign will utilize all our platforms to make a real difference." The multi-faceted campaign will include: Public Service Announcements (PSAs) to educate the community and encourage support for Black-owned businesses. A dedicated resource page on the Converge Media website to connect businesses with essential information and assistance. On-the-ground reporting and storytelling to highlight Black businesses and drive traffic to their establishments. Live appearances by Converge Media personalities at Black-owned businesses to raise awareness and show support. Converge Media has joined hands with several other organizations and platforms, including Vanishing Seattle, Buy Black Card by Intentionalist, Hey, Black Seattle!, Black Heritage Society of Washington State, and RieImagine Solutions, to amplify the campaign's reach and impact and provide resources and outreach. "We're committed to using our voice and our platforms to make a real difference in the lives of Black business owners and the community as a whole," added Ezell Jr. "We believe that by working together, we can help Black businesses weather this storm and emerge stronger than ever." Call To Action: Business Owners                                                                                                  Converge Media encourages Black-owned businesses struggling to make ends meet to visit https://lnkd.in/gGXc5994 and let us know what’s going on and how we can help. Patrons / Customers Converge Media encourages those who want to be intentional about Supporting Black Businesses across our region to visit https://lnkd.in/gGXc5994 - There, they can find a directory of Black businesses via Hey Black Seattle! and support Black businesses through the Buy Black Card by the Intentionalist. More information: [email protected]

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Get ready for another inspiring episode of "Keeping You Wise by Keeping it Real" as we continue our exploration into the world of Black entrepreneurship with "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey." In Episode 15, Part 2, we bring you even more powerful knowledge and gems from special guests Dontaye (DG) Garrett and Abena Imhotep. In this episode, our guests share the highs and lows of their entrepreneurial journeys, offering a candid look at the realities of building a business while navigating systemic challenges. Learn how these incredible individuals have harnessed their creativity, resilience, and community support to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. We dive into: • The Power of Resilience: How to stay motivated and push through setbacks. • Strategic Growth: Innovative strategies that have driven business success. • Building Networks: The importance of mentorship and community in entrepreneurship. • Cultural Identity: Balancing personal identity with business growth and success. • Navigating Funding Challenges: Practical tips on securing capital and building financial resilience. • Innovative Business Strategies: Unique approaches to overcoming obstacles and achieving growth. Our guests come from diverse industries, each bringing a unique perspective and invaluable advice. From a physical trainer and health and wellness mogul revolutionizing the fitness industry globally to an award-winning author, scholar, and activist whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and advocates for a just world, their stories will inspire and motivate you to take your own entrepreneurial leap. Part 2 of "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey" is not just a podcast episode; it’s a movement celebrating Black excellence and the indomitable spirit of Black entrepreneurs. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who loves a good success story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for everyone. Don’t miss out on these empowering stories and practical tips for entrepreneurial success. Subscribe, listen, and be part of the conversation. 🌟 Register her: https://buff.ly/4dabfza #RiseAndGrind #BlackEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurialJourney #BlackExcellence #BusinessInspiration #Podcast #SupportBlackBusiness #KeepingYouWise #SuccessStories

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Get ready for another inspiring episode of "Keeping You Wise by Keeping it Real" as we continue our exploration into the world of Black entrepreneurship with "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey." In Episode 15, Part 2, we bring you even more powerful knowledge and gems from special guests Dontaye (DG) Garrett and Abena Imhotep. In this episode, our guests share the highs and lows of their entrepreneurial journeys, offering a candid look at the realities of building a business while navigating systemic challenges. Learn how these incredible individuals have harnessed their creativity, resilience, and community support to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. We dive into: • The Power of Resilience: How to stay motivated and push through setbacks. • Strategic Growth: Innovative strategies that have driven business success. • Building Networks: The importance of mentorship and community in entrepreneurship. • Cultural Identity: Balancing personal identity with business growth and success. • Navigating Funding Challenges: Practical tips on securing capital and building financial resilience. • Innovative Business Strategies: Unique approaches to overcoming obstacles and achieving growth. Our guests come from diverse industries, each bringing a unique perspective and invaluable advice. From a physical trainer and health and wellness mogul revolutionizing the fitness industry globally to an award-winning author, scholar, and activist whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and advocates for a just world, their stories will inspire and motivate you to take your own entrepreneurial leap. Part 2 of "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey" is not just a podcast episode; it’s a movement celebrating Black excellence and the indomitable spirit of Black entrepreneurs. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who loves a good success story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for everyone. Don’t miss out on these empowering stories and practical tips for entrepreneurial success. Subscribe, listen, and be part of the conversation. 🌟 Register her: https://buff.ly/4dabfza #RiseAndGrind #BlackEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurialJourney #BlackExcellence #BusinessInspiration #Podcast #SupportBlackBusiness #KeepingYouWise #SuccessStories

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I spoke with serial entrepreneur, media maven and contrarian Gary Vaynerchuk at POSSIBLE Miami this week. He bemoaned the industry's romanticization of the past and infatuation with the future – and urged marketers to solve for the problems of today. Stream my full interview with Gary on The Drum TV: https://lnkd.in/g4rcgjuc #advertising #adtech #media #marketing #digital #social #socialmedia #platforms #tech #technews #garyvee #influencer #influencermarketing #digitalstrategy #possible #possiblemiami #possiblemiami2024

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🚀FOUNDERS🚀 We are excited to announce that Nex Cubed Cubed is actively seeking HBCU-affiliated founders who are leveraging technology to address society’s toughest challenges to join its HBCU Founders Accelerator! The HBCU Founders Accelerator is a customized 16-week intensive program, primarily conducted virtually. With a cohort size of 8-10 startups, our accelerator seeks to create a collaborative environment to foster entrepreneurial success. Throughout the program, each company is provided with dedicated executive-level support from paid advisors. We make an initial investment of $120,000 ‼️ in each selected startup to help support their growth📈 At least one member of the founding team must be an HBCU student, alum, or faculty member; and the company must have a proof of concept/MVP that is in market or on the verge of commercialization. 📌 For a full list of requirements, benefits, program details, and to apply, visit https://lnkd.in/eCGRXPTy 👈🏽 Applications for Cohort 3 are open NOW✅ through May 31st, at 11:59 PM EST. #HBCU #HBCUalum #HBCUpride #Entrepreneurship #Startup #HBCUFounders #Innovation #TechStartups #Founders

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Creating Campaigns vs "Cool Videos" 👇 I create content for businesses and brands. In my journey I've come across a lot of angsty marketing leads or business owners who simply want: "A Cool Video" And while that's cool and all, it doesn't do exactly what you think it might. Most people believe that having a killer video for social and their website is the answer to their lack of customers or membership signups - but the most it's going to do is entertain your current audience. If you really want to see a change in your business, you have to start thinking about content creation in "Campaigns". Your goal through awesome content creation isn't to get a bunch of likes or to go viral - your goal is to convert the viewer into a buyer. You do that by pushing a message. Show what you're selling in a series of content pieces with the same call to action to lead people to one place. That's something we can do and have done for businesses as you'll see in the link below at TrinityTags | Creative Agency. It's less about the ONE cool video, and more about the 12 GREAT videos. Message me directly if you're interested in starting a campaign for your business 🚀 https://lnkd.in/gCsbg86q

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The Taste Radio podcast by BevNET.com has launched a new series called: “Black Founders Club,” and the premier guest features our #PortCo A Dozen Cousins’ Founder & CEO Ibraheem Basir. In this episode, Ibraheem shares his journey as a Black entrepreneur, his funding experiences, and his future goals for A Dozen Cousins.  Watch the video on BevNET.com or listen to the Taste Radio podcast on major platforms. Don't miss it! https://lnkd.in/enD5mT7n #entrepreneurship #founders #startups #foodandbeverage #podcasts

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🎙️ Exciting Announcement! I'm Now Podcasting! 🎙️ I’m beyond thrilled to embark on this new journey of podcasting because I believe in the incredible power of sharing conversations that truly matter. I couldn’t have asked for a better guest than Jamaar Johnson, also known as the "Entrepremedian." His unique blend of stand-up comedy, marketing, and public speaking offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on personal branding and organisational wellness. In this episode of the WorkWell podcast, you’ll discover: Humor as a Connection Tool: Learn how Jamaar uses humour to captivate and connect with his audience. Boosting Creativity and Productivity: Insights on how to cultivate a vibrant and productive work environment. Building a Resonant Personal Brand: Strategies that have helped Jamaar craft a brand that truly resonates with his target market. The Power of "Super Connections": Techniques to form deep, meaningful relationships. FORM Acronyms for Deeper Conversations: A framework to ask more meaningful questions and connect on a deeper level. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to stand out, a marketer aiming to engage more effectively, or someone eager to enhance their public speaking skills, this episode is packed with invaluable insights! Let’s enrich our professional, storytelling journey together, one conversation at a time. 🗣️✨ Listen to the full episode on Substack here: https://bit.ly/45p6Fdo #entrepremedian #personalbranding #publicspeaking #humorInentrepreneurship #workwellpodcast #newpodcastalert

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🎙️ Pass me the mic! 🧐 I have the pleasure of hosting a provocative panel focused on black founders: the triumphs, the challenges and the journey. 👏🏾 My guest panelists Erika Brodnock, Barbara and Mohamed will be sharing the good, bad and the ugly from firsthand experiences and how they have thrived despite the odds for what will be a fun and engaging conversation. 🚀 Look forward to seeing you there! #blacktechfest #underrepresentedfounders #swimmingagainstthetide #equitableventure #venturecapital #startups #blackfounders #teamwork

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I remember visiting Meta’s NYC office in 2019, two years into our work at HBCU 20x20 | The Application and being excited to be in a space where so many decisions were made and to discuss entering into a partnership. The young millennial in me loved their carefully curated spaces, but beyond the initial excitement, I quickly realized they had significant gaps in authentically engaging diverse communities. So, when I heard about their recent decision to scale back DEI initiatives and trainings, I wasn’t entirely surprised. Meta’s DEI efforts were never just symbolic to me. They represented tangible strategies aimed at diversifying one of the world’s most influential tech companies, creating ripple effects across the industry. I truly believed they wanted to do better because of the people driving those efforts — and that commitment would inspire other companies to follow suit. For a while, I even considered them the gold standard, especially after Google’s missteps. This decision, however, is not just another corporate shift. It’s a direct challenge to the progress we’ve worked so hard to achieve in building equitable opportunities for underrepresented communities, including Black and Brown professionals and HBCU graduates. Let’s be clear: diversity isn’t just good for society — it’s essential for business. Research consistently shows that diverse teams outperform homogenous ones. They foster innovation, make better decisions, and deliver stronger financial results. HBCU graduates, with their resilience, adaptability, and creativity, are integral to this equation. For years, DEI programs have opened doors that were once firmly shut. Now, those doors are at risk of closing again. When companies like Meta deprioritize DEI, they not only jeopardize progress but also limit their own potential. Fewer diverse voices mean fewer perspectives in product development, marketing, and problem-solving. For a global company like Meta, whose products touch billions, this creates blind spots and missed opportunities. Meta’s decision may slow progress, but it won’t stop it. You can read some more of my thoughts on my website too: https://lnkd.in/enEZMkkn We all deserve an equitable workforce and society. #Meta #Facebook #Instagram #Threads #Diversity #DEI

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