RISE Urban Nation: Amplifying Black & Pan-African Voices Worldwide
RISE Urban Nation: Amplifying Black & Pan-African Voices Worldwide
Taryell Simmons
Veteran Leadership in Business: How Flavor Hills Built a Standout Brand
1 hour 2 minutes Posted Aug 4, 2026 at 3:35 pm.
0:00
1:02:33
Download MP3
Show notes
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with Eric L. Johnson II, co-founder, co-owner, and Chief Marketing Officer of Flavor Hills, a fast-growing, veteran-owned hospitality group known for elevated Southern comfort food, craft cocktails, and high-level hospitality.
Eric shares how his experience as a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine Corps Combat Engineer Officer shaped his approach to leadership, branding, team culture, and business growth. As CMO and Chief Leadership Officer, he helps drive Flavor Hills’ community presence, brand strategy, and regional expansion alongside fellow Marine veterans Andre Truss and Tellers Pollard III.
This conversation explores what it takes to build a memorable brand, lead with discipline, create strong community connections, and scale a hospitality business with purpose.