In this episode of Born To Be Dope, I sit down with licensed therapist and media personality Kiaundra Jackson to break down how she built a powerful personal brand from the ground up—and turned her expertise into a global platform.From growing up in Compton to landing national TV appearances and building a thriving YouTube channel, Kiaundra shares exactly how consistency, strategy, and faith helped her expand her reach far beyond her local community.If you’re a coach, speaker, or entrepreneur looking to build your brand, grow your audience, and monetize your message, this episode is your blueprint. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to build a brand beyond your local network The real strategy behind getting featured in media (without a huge following) Why consistency matters more than talent when growing your platform How to monetize your expertise through books, courses, and content The truth about YouTube growth, algorithms, and making money online How to handle criticism, negativity, and online hate as a creator Why you must “make it easy for people to say yes to you”  Key Moments:00:00 – Welcome to Born To Be Dope 02:00 – Kiaundra’s journey from Compton to therapist 05:00 – Using social media to grow your brand 10:00 – How she landed media features & TV opportunities 17:00 – When to hire a PR team 25:00 – Monetizing your expertise (sleep money strategy) 27:00 – Why YouTube became her main platform 34:00 – Dealing with online hate and criticism 43:00 – Inside YouTube creator programs & growth secrets 50:00 – How to create high-performing thumbnails 57:00 – Rapid fire questions Connect with Kiaundra Jackson:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KiaundraJackson Website: https://www.kiaundrajackson.com Instagram: @kiaundrajacksonResources & Links:Kiaundra Jackson - Official WebsiteHelp a Reporter Out (HARO)YouTube Creator ProgramBooks on Personal BrandingUnderstanding YouTube Analytics Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://mypodcastpartner.com/code Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com 

So many people say they want to "go viral", but do you even know what that looks like for your brand? Are you wishing to go viral for popularity or for profitability? Are you truly prepared to take advantage of going viral if it happens?   In this solo episode of Born To Be Dope, I break down my real experience with going viral across multiple social media platforms and what it actually means for your business. Everybody talks about going viral like it is the goal, but I walk you through what really happens when your content reaches thousands of people, including the feedback, the pressure, and the unexpected challenges that come with that level of visibility. I share what I learned from posts that performed well on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and why views alone do not translate into growth, clients, or revenue. I also get honest about monetization and reveal how much a high performing post actually made, and why that number might surprise you. More importantly, I explain what you should be focused on instead if you are an author, speaker, coach, or content creator trying to build a real platform. This episode will help you shift your mindset from chasing views to building a strategy that turns your content into a true business asset. If you have ever said you want to go viral, this is the conversation you need to hear before it happens. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher  Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://www.mypodcastpartner.com/ebook   Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com

In this episode, Dr. Rhonda Alexander shares her powerful journey from leadership to self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of redefining strength and setting healthy boundaries. Her insights help high-achieving women and men alike uncover how authenticity and vulnerability foster true leadership and well-being.Key TopicsThe foundational role of early leadership lessons from familyHow strength is often masked and what it truly means to be resilientThe significance of setting boundaries and practicing self-careThe journey of authentic leadership without losing oneselfHow men can support women by cultivating compassion and emotional awarenessPractical steps for growing into a transformational leader while staying true to yourselfTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Rhonda Alexander and her leadership journey 02:10 - Early leadership lessons from family influence 04:30 - Overcoming an overworked career and starting her own enterprise 07:24 - The breakdown that led to embracing authentic self-care 09:20 - How writing her book uncovered collective challenges among Black women 12:16 - The role of societal expectations in the "strong Black woman" stereotype 14:39 - Rethinking what true strength looks like for Black women 16:34 - The mask of strength and the importance of vulnerability 18:44 - Healing by dealing with pain directly, not avoiding it 20:13 - Redefining strength as knowing your capacity and setting limits 21:33 - The power of boundaries and saying no confidently 23:30 - Balancing sacrificial roles and preserving personal energy 25:14 - The significance of boundaries in personal growth and identity 27:28 - The process of shifting relationships when setting new boundaries 29:39 - How authenticity enhances leadership presence 31:42 - The peace that comes with self-care and saying no 33:33 - Men’s roles in supporting women’s emotional health and development 36:45 - The importance of compassion and vulnerability in Black relationships 39:36 - Growing as a leader without losing personal authenticity 41:44 - Embracing extraness and how it boosts confidence 44:45 - The challenge of speaking one’s truth and standing out 46:00 - How Dr. Rhonda's book "7 Dirty Secrets" came to life 47:56 - Recognizing your own dope moment and self-worth 48:36 - Lessons learned from early jobs and personal development 49:42 - Embracing hobbies and hidden talents as part of self-identity 52:39 - Turning what was once hidden into a superpower: extraness 55:49 - Ryan’s superpower: creating safe spaces for others 58:00 - The importance of authenticity in leadership and life 59:25 - How to get the book and connect with Dr. Rhonda 60:11 - Closing remarks on embracing your dope self and leadershipResources & Links7 Dirty Secrets of a Strong Black WomanAmazon: 7 Dirty Secrets of a Strong Black WomanDr. Rhonda Alexander - InstagramDr. Rhonda Alexander - LinkedIn Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://mypodcastpartner.com/code Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com 

Most people spend years chasing purpose without understanding the real formula to activate it. In this episode, I break down the three critical positions of leadership purpose:Positioned IN Purpose: This is where you actively work on your purpose. When you're in the right room and doing what you're meant to do, opportunities will knock.  Positioned BY Purpose: Your purpose places you in specific environments. Think about how a doctor is in a hospital or a teacher in a school. You need to be in the right place to fulfill your mission.  Positioned FOR Purpose: You may not always see the reason for your presence in certain situations, but trust that you're there for a purpose. Often, it’s only in hindsight that we recognize our impact.  Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or professional feeling stuck, this episode gives you the clarity to step fully into your authentic greatness. You'll discover:The difference between being positioned in your purpose versus by your purpose and how to maximize both for exponential growth.How positioning yourself in the right room or industry can lead to unexpected opportunities.Why sometimes, even without knowing, you’re position is building a purpose that can change lives years down the line.The crucial role belief plays in walking confidently in your purpose, overcoming traps like living someone else's dream, comparing yourself to others, or fear of losing.Practical insights on how to avoid the three traps that block your leadership successDon't wait for permission or the perfect moment. Activate your purpose now, step into your greatness, and watch doors open in ways you never imagined.Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://mypodcastpartner.com/code     Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com

In the latest episode of Born To Be Dope, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Carlena Davis, the founder of Spillin' The Sweet Tea, to discuss her journey from a small-town girl in North Carolina to a prominent food content creator. With a rich background in Southern cooking and an inspiring story of resilience, Carlena shares how she turned her childhood experiences and love for food into a thriving business, all while navigating the challenges of social media. The Roots of a Culinary Passion  Carlena Davis grew up in Kingston, North Carolina, where her parents owned a funeral home. This unique upbringing taught her the importance of hard work, empathy, and community. After school, she would help her mother cook, learning valuable skills in the kitchen. "Food has been a big part of my life...everything is centered around food," Carlena recalls, highlighting how family gatherings and church events revolved around cooking and sharing meals. The Birth of Spillin' The Sweet Tea  In 2017, Carlena started her food blog, Spillin' The Sweet Tea, as a way to document her mother’s recipes. "I started studying her in the kitchen...because I knew a day would come when she wouldn't remember how to make these dishes," she explains. The blog began as a passion project but transformed into something more significant during the pandemic. In 2020, she shifted her focus to creating video content on TikTok, capturing the attention of food lovers everywhere. Navigating Social Media  Carlena's journey on TikTok began with simple cooking videos. Initially, she faced challenges like negative comments and misunderstandings about her cooking methods. "I had made some smoked turkey wings and people were quick to criticize. But it was those comments that actually helped me grow my following," she notes. Rather than being discouraged, Carlena embraced the feedback, using it as motivation to connect with her audience and share authentic cooking experiences. The Viral Moment  A turning point for Carlena came when she recreated a beloved dish from her hometown called a "pig and a pup" during the pandemic. This copycat recipe went viral, leading to an interview with a local news station. "I was just like, I might have something here," she reflects. This moment solidified her status as a content creator and opened doors to new opportunities in the culinary world. Lessons Learned and Future Goals  Throughout her journey, Carlena has learned the importance of perseverance and authenticity. She emphasizes that success does not require fame; rather, it stems from passion and hard work. "You don't have to be famous to be successful," she reminds listeners, encouraging aspiring creators to embrace their uniqueness. Carlena Davis' journey from a small-town upbringing to a successful food content creator is a testament to the power of passion and resilience. By sharing her family's recipes and stories, she has built a community that values authenticity and creativity in cooking. Key takeaways include the importance of following your passion, embracing feedback, and staying true to yourself in the face of challenges. Carlena’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their unique talents into a thriving business.Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://www.mypodcastpartner.com/ebook   Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com

In this episode of the Born to Be Dope Show, host Ryan C. Greene engages in a heartfelt conversation with JoJo Crews, the host of the Prince of Pop Culture Podcast. JoJo shares his journey from aspiring musician to thriving media personality, offering insights and inspiration for anyone pursuing their passions against all odds.  The Early Years  JoJo Crews recalls his childhood in Washington D.C., where his love for music began at a young age. Growing up on Saratoga Avenue, he found inspiration in the sounds of Whitney Houston and Salt-N-Pepa. Living across from the original BET Studios fueled his dreams of a future in entertainment. By the time he reached high school, JoJo had his heart set on becoming an artist, believing that he was destined for a career in music. The Pursuit of Music  JoJo actively chased his dreams throughout high school, participating in plays and honing his craft as a singer. He recalls vividly his audition experiences for shows like American Idol, where he camped out overnight to showcase his talent. Despite his passion, reality set in when he realized that pursuing a career in music would require more than just talent; it needed stability. This led him to seek jobs that would pay the bills, pushing his dreams to the back burner. Life Changes and Responsibilities  When JoJo became a parent, his priorities shifted dramatically. Taking on the role of a father was a turning point that forced him to focus on providing for his family. He worked various jobs, including a long tenure at a non-profit organization, where he found stability but felt lost in terms of his true calling. JoJo's journey reflects the struggle many face when balancing dreams and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of persistence even when life gets complicated. A Turning Point  The loss of his mother in 2013 was a profound moment that altered JoJo's life trajectory. This tragedy served as a catalyst for change, prompting him to seek outlets for his grief. He started a blog, which unexpectedly opened doors to opportunities in the media industry, including covering red carpet events. JoJo’s story illustrates how adversity can lead to new paths and reignite passions that had been sidelined. Building a Career in Media  Through his blog and connections made along the way, JoJo Crews transitioned from aspiring artist to a respected media figure. His experiences in the entertainment industry, combined with his natural charisma, allowed him to carve out a niche for himself. JoJo emphasizes the importance of networking and staying true to oneself in the journey toward success. JoJo Crews' journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of pursuing one’s passions despite setbacks. Whether it’s through the loss of a loved one or the challenges of adulthood, JoJo’s story inspires others to keep pushing forward. The key takeaways from his experience are clear: embrace your unique journey, stay connected to your passions, and never underestimate the impact of your story on others. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://www.mypodcastpartner.com/ebook   Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, understanding and protecting your intellectual property (IP) is crucial for success. In a recent episode of the Born to Be Dope podcast, host Ryan C. Green spoke with attorney Karin Coger about the significance of IP and how entrepreneurs can safeguard their unique creations. Understanding Intellectual Property: Intellectual property encompasses various forms of creation that individuals or businesses produce. Karin Coger breaks it down simply: trademarks protect your brand and logo, copyrights safeguard your content, and patents cover your inventions. For instance, when you think of McDonald's, both the name and its iconic golden arches are trademarked elements that protect the brand's identity. Similarly, copyrights apply to everything from written content to videos and even choreography, ensuring that creators retain rights over their work. Identifying Your Intellectual Property: Many entrepreneurs are unaware of the intellectual property they already possess. Karin emphasizes the importance of identifying all aspects of your work that can be protected. This includes proprietary systems, teaching materials, and even online content. For example, if you’ve written a book or developed a unique training module, those can be protected under copyright law. Failing to secure these rights can lead to others using your work without permission, which is a risk no entrepreneur should take. Monetizing Your Creativity: Karin outlines a three-step framework for coaches and consultants to turn their expertise into a lucrative venture. The first step is to identify your IP, as discussed. After identifying your valuable assets, the next steps involve protecting and monetizing them. This could mean filing for trademarks on your brand and logo or securing copyrights for your digital content. For instance, if you’re a TikTok creator, while you can’t copyright every single video, you should protect your brand signature and any catchphrases or unique content that become associated with you. Navigating the Viral Landscape: In today’s digital age, many creators aspire to go viral without a clear plan for protecting their content. Karin highlights the example of the "Hock Tuah Girl" phenomenon, where a spontaneous catchphrase became wildly popular. Creators like her can still file for trademark registration even after their content has gone viral, as long as they can prove they were the first to use the phrase in commerce. This illustrates the importance of being proactive about IP, especially in an era where trends can change overnight. Protecting your intellectual property is not just about safeguarding your creations; it’s about ensuring the longevity and success of your business. By understanding what constitutes IP, identifying your own assets, and taking steps to protect and monetize them, you can set yourself up for success in your entrepreneurial journey. Key takeaways include the importance of trademarks and copyrights, the necessity of identifying all forms of IP, and the proactive measures creators should take to protect their work in a viral-driven world. Get Karin’s Trademark Tracking Assistant GPT, Regina: https://reginatmda.karincogeresq.co Use Code: BORNTOBEDOPE to get free access as long as you write a review once you’ve used the tool.  Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel to continue learning how to build your own dope media platform. Get the full Born To Be Dope experience at https://www.borntobedope.com   Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: https://www.borntobedope.com/cypher Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live workshop: https://www.mypodcastpartner.com/ebook   Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Subscribe to the Dope AF Blog: https://www.borntobedope.com/blog   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borntobedope   Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: https://www.weardopetees.com

In the rapidly evolving world of public speaking, standing out is more crucial than ever. In a recent episode of the "Born to be Dope" podcast, Brian J. Olds, the founder of Black Speakers Network, shared valuable insights on how speakers can future-proof their careers by embracing authenticity and leveraging modern technology. This blog post distills those insights into actionable strategies for aspiring and established speakers alike.Understanding Your Unique Value Proposition: One of the central themes discussed in the podcast is the importance of authenticity in the speaking industry. Brian emphasizes that many speakers fall into the trap of imitating successful figures instead of discovering their unique voice. He recalls his own journey, noting that he initially felt pressured to conform to a mold, wearing suits and adopting the speaking styles of established speakers. However, he learned that true success comes from embracing one’s individuality and allowing personal experiences to shape one’s narrative.Finding Your Speaker Sweet Spot: Brian introduced a powerful concept known as the "speaker sweet spot," which is the intersection of passion, expertise, and market demand. He explains this using a Venn diagram analogy, where:- Passion represents what lights you up inside.- Expertise captures your life experiences and knowledge.- Market Demand encompasses what people are willing to pay for and what the world needs.By focusing on this intersection, speakers can develop a message that not only resonates with their audience but also generates income.The Importance of Market Demand: A significant takeaway from the podcast is the need for speakers to understand market demand. Brian pointed out that many aspiring speakers struggle to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. He advises that finding the right niche is essential. According to him, it’s not enough to be passionate or knowledgeable; there must be a genuine demand for what you offer. Testing the market through small experiments—like workshops or webinars—can provide insight into what resonates with potential audiences.Overcoming the Fear of Failure: Brian also addressed a common psychological barrier among entrepreneurs: the fear of failure. He argues that many individuals fear public failure more than failure itself. This fear can stifle creativity and innovation. He encourages speakers to embrace failure as part of the learning process. For instance, if a workshop doesn’t attract a large audience, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s an opportunity to learn rather than a reflection of one’s worth.Leveraging Technology: The podcast highlights how technology can aid speakers in their journey. Platforms like Instagram now offer features such as A/B testing, allowing users to experiment with different content to see what works best. Brian emphasizes the importance of utilizing these tools to refine one’s approach and better understand audience preferences.Brian J. Olds’ insights provide a roadmap for speakers looking to navigate the complexities of the industry. By embracing authenticity, understanding market demand, and leveraging technology, speakers can not only future-proof their careers but also create a lasting impact. The key takeaways from this discussion are:1. Embrace your unique voice and experiences.2. Identify your "speaker sweet spot" by finding the intersection of passion, expertise, and market demand.3. View setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures.4. Utilize technology to test ideas and refine your approach.Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode! Watch this and other full video episodes: https://youtu.be/ek6C4GuSn3w Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live training: www.mypodcastpartner.com/code    Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher. Our community for leaders looking to 10x their leadership impact, influence, and income: www.borntobedope.com/cypherBuild your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: https://www.borntobedope.com/camp   Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: www.instagram.com/borntobedope  Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher: www.borntobedope.com/cypher    Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rygisdope    Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: www.weardopetees.com 

In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, one vital skill often overlooked is the ability to maintain focus. In the latest episode of the Born to Be Dope Show, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Paul Burrow, known as Paul the Connector. Together, they delve into the importance of focus and clarity in business and how these elements can drive success. The Roots of Entrepreneurship  Paul shares his entrepreneurial journey, which began in his childhood surrounded by family businesses, including a flower shop and a beauty salon. This early exposure instilled in him the essence of entrepreneurship. He later pursued graphic design and marketing, ultimately leading him to establish his own business dedicated to helping other entrepreneurs. This background emphasizes the importance of understanding the foundations of business, which is essential for anyone looking to succeed in today's competitive market. Helping Others Succeed  Paul's business focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in building sustainable communities through their ventures. He believes that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for creating opportunities not just for oneself but for others as well. This philosophy aligns with his commitment to helping business owners achieve financial independence and realize their dreams. He explains that the goal of any entrepreneur should be to create pathways for others to follow, fostering a culture of support and growth. The Importance of a Strong Back Office  In discussing the pitfalls many entrepreneurs face, Paul highlights the necessity of having a robust back-office system. He notes that having a great product or service isn't enough; businesses need effective systems in place to manage customers and operations efficiently. Paul emphasizes the value of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, which help businesses streamline processes and maintain organized communication with clients. He recommends resources like My Automation Suite for entrepreneurs seeking to improve their operational efficiency. Focus and Clarity Transformation System (FACTS)  To help entrepreneurs stay on track, Paul introduces his Focus and Clarity Transformation System (FACTS). He explains that sustained focus on specific tasks leads to better results. Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of distraction and often abandon strategies prematurely, which hinders their growth. By adopting FACTS, entrepreneurs can maintain clarity about their objectives and create a structured plan to achieve them. Valuing Your Services  A recurring theme in their conversation is the challenge of pricing services appropriately. Paul advises entrepreneurs to understand their worth and the value they bring to clients. He suggests conducting market research to gauge pricing trends while ensuring that the services offered provide significant value to customers. This approach not only justifies higher prices but also fosters better client relationships. Networking: Building Relationships Over Transactions  Paul, known as Paul the Connector, shares insights on the power of networking. He believes that building strong relationships in business is more crucial than merely focusing on profits. By prioritizing connections and fostering deep relationships, entrepreneurs can create transformative experiences for their clients and partners. This approach can lead to opportunities that may not be accessible through financial means alone. In this enlightening discussion, Paul the Connector offers valuable insights into the importance of focus, clarity, and relationships in entrepreneurship. By implementing effective systems, valuing services appropriately, and prioritizing connections over transactions, entrepreneurs can create a sustainable path to success. Key takeaways from this episode include the significance of maintaining focus on specific business goals, the need for robust back-office systems, and the value of building meaningful relationships within the business community. Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode! Watch this and other full video episodes: www.borntobedope.com Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live training: www.mypodcastpartner.com/code Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: www.borntobedope.com/camp Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: www.instagram.com/borntobedope Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher: www.borntobedope.com/cypher  Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rygisdope  Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: www.weardopetees.com

In the latest episode of the Born to Be Dope podcast, host Ryan C. Greene welcomes Mike Powell, a leader in mentoring and personal development, to discuss his transformative journey in leadership through the sport of golf. With over 20 years of experience through his nonprofit, Lifting As We Climb, Mike shares how he is now merging effective leadership training with the skills and community found in golf. 1. The Foundation of Giving Back  Mike Powell co-founded Lifting As We Climb in 2003, a mentoring program aimed at empowering young people through sports. By leveraging sports as a platform, they reached large numbers of kids and emphasized the importance of academic and social development alongside athletic prowess. Mike explained, "We wanted to impact kids in the classroom, on the field, and in life." This holistic approach has led many participants to achieve significant milestones, including scholarships and professional opportunities. 2. Evolving the Message  Over the years, Mike's focus has evolved while maintaining the core message of helping individuals become more productive. He emphasized that while the methods and venues for delivering this message have changed, the intent has remained constant. Mike noted, "The way that we're delivering it has grown; I still do goal-setting workshops, but now it's more about working with clients internally rather than public sessions." 3. Navigating Change in Leadership  The discussion also touched on the challenges of public perception in the age of social media. Mike highlighted that just because something is not visible online doesn't mean it isn't happening. He said, "You can't judge success just by what you see someone post. Many entrepreneurs are hard at work behind the scenes, and sometimes they go quiet to focus on their craft." 4. The Rise of Fairways to Success  As Mike’s personal journey evolved, particularly through the lens of fatherhood and his daughter's involvement in golf, a new idea emerged—Fairways to Success. Set to launch in 2026, this program aims to teach leadership skills through golf. Drawing parallels between the sport and leadership, Mike aims to create an immersive experience that combines learning to play golf with valuable leadership lessons. He described the excitement, saying, "Golf is hot right now; it’s not the nerdy sport it used to be. It’s becoming a community where young professionals gather." 5. Key Lessons from Golf  Mike outlines several key lessons from the game of golf that translate into valuable leadership skills:   - What's in Your Bag? Just as golfers must know their clubs, leaders must understand their strengths and weaknesses. Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.   - Playing the Lie: Adaptability is key in golf as conditions change. Similarly, leaders must be able to navigate varying situations and challenges effectively.   - Building Community: Golf fosters connections and maturity among players, providing a unique opportunity for networking and personal development. Conclusion:  Mike Powell’s journey exemplifies the power of adaptability and the importance of mentorship. By combining his experience in leadership with the lessons learned from golf, he is paving the way for future leaders through the Fairways to Success program. As he prepares to launch this initiative, his story reminds us that growth often comes from unexpected places, and the key to success lies in understanding our unique tools and how to use them.  Key Takeaways:- The importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership.- Adapting to change and navigating new environments is essential for personal growth.- Engaging with communities can provide invaluable networking opportunities and shared learning experiences.Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode! Watch this and other full video episodes: www.borntobedope.com Get the eBook “Cracking The Content Creation Code” and register for the free live training: www.mypodcastpartner.com/code Build your Authority Media Brand in the next 8-Week Media Camp: www.borntobedope.com/camp Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: www.instagram.com/borntobedope Join the Born To Be Dope Leadership Cypher: www.borntobedope.com/cypher  Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rygisdope  Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: www.weardopetees.com