SYNOPSIS OF INTERVIEW: Ivana Oli, co-founder of Beautiful Curly Me, a

company that makes dolls, books, and other products aimed at boosting the

confidence and self-esteem of young black girls. It details how the company

was started by Oli’s daughter Zoe when she was 6 years old because she

wanted dolls that looked like her, and how the business has grown from that

original idea. Oli shares insights into challenges they faced as a startup, the

importance of community, and their goals to impact millions of girls globally.

SYNOPSIS OF INTERVIEW: Ashley Scott interviews MT Strickland, an

entrepreneur who started a company called Metricmate that makes

sensors to track your workout data. They discuss Strickland’s journey to

starting Metricmate, overcoming challenges like the pandemic, appearing

on Shark Tank, and the importance of the Russell Innovation Center for

Entrepreneurs in supporting Metricmate’s growth.

SYNOPSIS OF INTERVIEW: Entrepreneur Mike Gregory shares his journey

of starting a business in the print industry. Mouse discusses how he

leveraged relationships, maintained a work-life balance, and emphasized

the importance of consultative sales. He also talks about his vision for the

future, including having five warehouses for manufacturing in the United

States. Mouse’s unique approach to product customization and his ability

to consistently deliver quality sets him apart in the market. The interview

highlights the significance of connections and relationships in the world

of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the value of perseverance and

innovation within the African American community