Brilliantly Black

An Ethe is a growing family-owned transportation company which prides itself on providing premiere transportation services. Reliable, convenient and affordable services is Ann-Ethe’s mission to its customers. There is no event too big or too small that they can’t service! Listed below are some of the main services offered, However, the list grows all the time. Please visit their website at annetheservices.com.
Van Shuttle ServicesAirport drop offs and pickupsDowntown toursWedding drop offs and pick upsBachelorette partiesBachelor partiesBirthday partiesBirthday event drop offs and pick upsQuinceanera party drop off and pick upsHoliday parti...

TrnscndWellness is a Chicago-founded, women-owned company dedicated to creating toothpaste with intention—designed specifically for individuals with oral sensitivity and neurodivergent challenges. Their flagship product, Talk Natural Whitening Toothpaste, was inspired by the founder, Nicole Sain's daughter, who was born with a unique medical condition, is autistic, and experiences both neurological and cognitive challenges. With her in mind, they carefully formulated Talk using low-sensitivity ingredients to create a gentle, sensory-friendly brushing experience while supporting gum health and reducing bleeding for those with oral sensitivities. Talk is vegan-certified, safe if swallowed, an...

Marshawna Martin is a Tax strategist who helps business owners save on taxes and create strategies for growth. She describes her journey, the importance of mentorship, and gives tips for this current tax season. Please enjoy our candid conversation while gaining entrepreneurship and tax knowledge.

Instagram: @mtmmoneymattera
Facebook: MTM Money Matters

Taylor’s love for coffee started at a very young age when she would enjoy a cup (mostly milk and sugar, of course) with her grandma. They would often enjoy a good laugh or two as well. She looked forward to these mornings and still do to this day. Transitioning to her career, Taylor is no stranger to the early morning, fast-paced working environment. To kick start the day, a perfect cup of coffee and tasty pastry is essential. These moments are what inspired Taylor to open “Procaffeinated CoffeeHouse LLC”. It simply means “not starting anything important until you have had a cu...

Dr. Mary Camper is the founder of Reestablishing Hope, a licensed behavioral health clinic that provides a range of services, such as mental health and substance use treatment, anger management, trauma informed care, grief counseling, violence prevention services, veterans’ services, case management and more.

Dr. Camper's vision is to minimize gaps in services related to the social determinant of health, help individuals understand self and overcome the challenges related to mental health. She is dedicated to providing services that will reduce challenges of mental health and improve the well-being of the people she serves.

If you're hav...

Toussaint and Veronica Smith are the dynamic brother-sister duo that own Alliance Associates Realtors.

Putting an emphasis on educating not only the next generation, their clients, but also themselves -- Toussaint and Veronica are the go-to gurus for everything real estate.

Their primary focus is not just on buying or selling properties, but on connecting with people and cultivating relationships that last a lifetime. With strong values of education, integrity, and a dedicated commitment to service...the only way to go is with Alliance Associates Realtors!

Marsha Jones, aka MJ, is back!
Originally featured on episode 26, MJ returns to chat with V103 midday host Bionce Foxx about her Brilliantly Black business award. Congratulations, MJ!!

MJ's main goal is to make women of all shapes, and every color, feel beautiful no matter what. Also, when it comes to your dreams, just have FAITH! 

Visit MJ's Boutique in the Southlake Mall in Merriville, IN and shop online here!

Aja "Lynn" and chef Brandon of Lynn's Chicago Pizza in Hazel Crest, IL are the definition of trailblazers! 

With a focus on quality ingredients, love of the craft and wanting to let a light shine on their community, Lynn's Chicago Pizza has everything you need from thin crust to deep dish, wings, pasta and more.

Hear all about their story and get a slice of your own pizza heaven at 17561 Kedzie Avenue in Lux Resto! Click here for more info!

Chrishon Lampley, founder and CEO of Love Cork Screw, stops by the 75th episode of the Brilliantly Black podcast! 

Love Cork Screw was born out of this desire to not only provide an enjoyable wine experience, but also to support underrepresented communities and promote sustainable practices. From its very beginning, Love Cork Screw has been a brand that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the world and fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

“Love Cork Screw is more than just wine. It’s a whole mood.” - Chrishon Lampley

For more in...

DeAnna Taylor is the founder, CEO and Executive Coach of Mom-Care Oasis, winner of our Brilliantly Black business award! 

Focusing on well-being coaching for working moms, DeAnna and her team thrive to help simplify the mom's busy life. Mom-Care Oasis is committed to seeing busy moms flourish and gain better life harmony.

From self-care grants to the new "Mommy Needs A Minute" kit, there is something for every working mom at Mom-Care Oasis!

Listen to the latest episode for more self-care tips, and information on how to get more involved. and LESS overwhelmed! Visit t...

Leia Avery, founder of Just Play Entertainment, is the "Queen of Fun"!

For the past decade, Leia has brought families, friends and corporate teams closer via fun and games. Adult life is hard enough...sometimes, we all need a little fun.
Just Play Entertainment was rated 1 of the top 10 businesses to celebrate special occasions during the Pandemic.

Learn more about Leia's story of success as she shares with Jasmine, on the latest episode of the Brilliantly Black podcast.

The ray of sunshine behind AndySunflower Cafe, Andy, shares the story of how she went from making coffee for friends and family to broadening her horizons.

Now located in-store at Ain’t She Sweet Café in the Chicago Beverly community, AndySunflower Café was created to connect and meet with as many coffee lovers in the Chicagoland area as possible.  Any means to serve coffee and have great conversations is what matter most.  Andy taught herself how to make great, flavorful, fresh coffee for over 12 years by using the freshest of beans sourced from the best roasters around the world...

Chef Lashon Burrell founded Cajun Cafe Chicago in 2022. Putting her own special spin on Southern cuisine, Chef Lashon has made hundreds smile with her delicious food and spectacular customer service. 

Cajun Cafe Chicago has become a highlight at corporate events, galas, fundraisers, and a variety of other special occasions. Over the years, Cajun Cafe Chicago has also demonstrated a strong commitment to serving and investing in the Westside and Southside communities.

This dedication to community engagement has led to valuable partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Dion's Chicago Dream, The Blackhawks Foundation, The Obama Foundation, Chicago B...

Dr. Shika Myrickes is the CEO of Shika & Co. Extensions, also known as the "Tiffany's of Hair"!

Shika has created a unique, high-quality experience for her customers through customer service, and of course the best of the best luxury hair products.

Shika has made a huge impact with her community. By having each bundle purchased through Shika & Co., 3% goes to the Heart 2 Hair Foundation for women who are fighting the battle with lupus and cancer. 

Hear more of her story as she shares with Jasmine on the 70th episode of Brilliantly Black, and make y...

Alexus Edmonds, creator of Made Gentle, LLC is here! 

Made Gentle, LLC is a natural hair care company that focuses on helping you keep your hair at its healthiest, with high-quality vegan products. It comes highly recommended! See why everyone loves Made Gentle and how it all got started with the latest episode of Brilliantly Black.

Nazeer Smith, owner of Fly Choice Community NFP, is no stranger to social work and the commitment to make a positive difference by giving others a second chance. 

Nazeer shares his powerful story with Jasmine on the 68th episode of the Brilliantly Black podcast. Striving to make a lasting impact on his community with the youth and judicially involved individuals, this is a story you want to hear.

To get involved and find more information, visit flychoicecommunity.org!

Aly Jae is the creator of Spotl1ght Artistry! 

Aly talks with Jasmine about the origins of her makeup journey, drops tips for up-and-coming makeup artists, the importance of self-care...and BALANCE.

Aly has grown her clientele from friends and family members, to movie sets. With over 200,000 followers on TikTok, Aly Jae is making a name for herself and constantly trailblazing in her creative field.

Follow her @alyjae4real to find more information!

Founder Dedra Simmons has a long history with crack cakes -- she grew up eating them! Remembering how delicious they were and how they made her feel, she decided to start baking her own right out of her kitchen.

Now in 2024, Pookie Crack Cakes sell extremely fast, and are made fresh daily. You know what they say - "one bite and you're addicted!" Visit Dedra and the Pookie Crack Cakes team at 105 E. 47th Street in the Bronzeville area, and find more information here.

Dr. Chakika Williams of SkyRose loves to pour into her clients, as they frequently pour right back into her -- putting an emphasis on the rejuvenation part of SkyRose.

Dr. Williams is a Licensed and Dual Board-Certified Family and Psych and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certifications as an Advanced Practice Aesthetic Nurse Injector, Microneedling, Dermaplaning, Body Contouring, Weight-loss management, and much more.

Relax, and reach your ultimate body goals at https://skyrosercs.org/home/!

Tara Robertson of PupStars Pet Care stops by to share all about their one-stop pet shop. Tara has been working in the animal care field for over 20 years, so her and her fantastic team are ready to take great care of you AND your pet.

Find more information at https://www.pupstarspetcare.com/!

Erica Howard of She Is Undefeated Inc. is all about educating, uplifting and serving the community!

Founded in 2018, She Is Undefeated Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing access to resources that empower and uplift individuals in our community - strongly committed to ending world hunger and poverty through financial literacy programs, community outreach and more.

Find out how to get involved in this amazing nonprofit by visiting She Is Undefeated Inc.!

CEO and owner of Blissful Art & Design LLC, Te'Resa Thomas, is here to sprinkle a little magic onto your next project!

Blissful Art & Design LLC. is a leading Graphic Design Studio based in Chicago - with clients across the United States specializing in providing luxury design services with artistic flair. From book design, to branding to printing - Te'Resa has you covered!

Find more information at getblissful.net!

Diana Anfield, owner of Drinks on the Rocks, is all about the experience! Unique and catered to you. Her mobile bartending service lives by this motto: “You mingle while we mix”!

Drinks on Rocks will provide service to any and all occasions including weddings, corporate events, launch parties, private in home events, kid parties, and more.


To book with Diana and find more information, visit DrinksOnTheRocks.com!

Ashley Anthony started The A Word Cosmetics to help make others feel confident, and beautiful. Even if you have to start from square one in your personal beauty journey! Inspired by her uncle, she created The A Word Cosmetics to keep the legacy going.

To shop her beauty products or find more information, visit The A Word Cosmetics!

Christina Campbell is the owner of Malea's Closet!

Preciously named after her daughter, Malea's Closet specializes in custom party favors for DIY Parties and custom keepsakes. Their main goal is to provide their customers with memories and preserving those memories with custom keepsakes. After starting in 2015 creating balloon designs, they have since branched out into so much more! Malea's Closet is located on the south side of Chicago and ships all over the US.

To book, contact 773.916.2814 or visit https://maleascloset.com!

Getting a little luxurious with Opulence Gallery in this dazzling episode! This family-owned business is comprised of four women with several years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience.

Owners Mykhail Willis and Lauren Daniels share more about their two beatiful southside locations (one is new!) and the origin story of Opulence. Opulence Gallery is a contemporary multi-use space for social events, life celebrations, corporate/community meetings, and entrepreneurial pop-ups -- created to bring communities together to create memories, make connections and celebrate milestones.

Make your next event extra special by booking with Opulence Gallery here!

Dante Royster of Epic Mortgage stops by to share his experiences and knowledge in the mortgage and financial services industry.

His goals include developing future business leaders and creating life-long business partners that prosper from each other's success. Dante’s licenses include Illinois, Indiana, Florida, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan,Virginia and Texas Mortgage Originator Licenses.

Find more information here!

The word of the day is theatre...Definition Theatre that is! Tyrone Phillips and Neel McNeil wear their passion for theatre on their sleeves.

The mission of Definition Theatre is to celebrate stories created with, inspired by, and intended for people and communities of color. Through the act of making, Definition expands perspectives, stewards resources, and bridges the possibility found at the intersection of art, innovation, and education.

Listen as Tyrone and Neel tell Jasmine all about their experience, their vision, and their future. Learn more on how to get involved, donate or catch a show...

Lauren Grinage, owner of Bucketz Game Zone, talks in-depth with Jasmine about the one-of a-kind kids' party space located on Chicago's south side.

Bucketz is the private party spot you're looking for! In addition to the NERF battle zone, Bucketz has video gaming systems with the newest games, and an interactive virtual playground that everybody can enjoy no matter the age, from adults to kids. The virtual playground promotes social engagement that helps with participation, self-awareness, positive interaction, and helps with being a team player, all while being safe and germ-free.

Find more information and book...

Brianna "Bri" Hairlson is the owner of Bri's Dance Place in Merrillville, IN. Her love of dance called her to open her own studio, to classes of all ages.

The mission of Bri's Dance Place is to positively impact the lives of individuals through dance by providing discipline, character development, confidence, and integrity through age appropriate choreography, music, & costuming from the best instructors in the industry and exposure to international arts related and performance opportunities.

Whether you're a pro, or at the beginning of your dance journey, or trying to find your rhythm again...find out...

Two brothers from Chicago, Joe and Ted, created PlayPen Vodka after a family celebration on one 4th of July.

Shortly after, they got to work and made their idea, their dream--become a reality! Inspired by Chicago's brief, yet beautiful summers, PlayPen Vodka captures the spirit of fun times enjoyed within the iconic Playpen of Lake Michigan, along Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

PlayPen is a premium vodka (gluten-free, sugar-free) distilled from corn, vacuum distilled and is also carbon filtered six times, creating exceptional smoothness and taste. Head to your local Binny's to grab a bottle for yourself, and...

One of the most influential journalists in Chicago, Veronica (Vee) Harrison, stops by to discuss her inspirational book "Hood Healing" with Jasmine.

Vee is a Chicago change agent, setting the stage for new voices in Black media. "Hood Healing" sounds the alarm on what it means to be “woke” by boldly challenging young people to disrupt and dismantle their own trauma and encouraging its readers to embark upon a journey of self-healing. With passion, transparency and courage, Harrison shares her own experiences of growing up on the West Side of Chicago and how making peace with her own trau...

Dr. McGee of Premier Urgent Care is all about spreading awareness in the Black community of better and more affordable health care on Chicago's southside. Their Premier Health Network center offers exceptional urgent care, primary care, and occupational medicine.

They strive to make urgent care services quick and convenient for all patients, and they even have an open door policy, where no appointment is needed and you can walk-in anytime. For more information visit https://premierucchicago.com/!

Welcome to episode 50! Jasmine talks with Next Man Up Spa owner Marva Cooksey about the importance of self-care, especially with our African-American men in the community.

Located in the historic district of Bronzeville in Chicago, IL, Next Man Up, LLC (NMU) a Black owned spa, is the ultimate spa experience and destination for men. The grooming experience consist of haircuts, massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, rain shower and a steam-room. A true next level experience!

For bookings, click here!

Chicago natives Rich, Zach and Greg dared to be different and start their very own brewing company. Black-owned beer companies are rare, and these guys were determined to make themselves known--and represent our culture in the best way possible (down to the art on the actual cans!)

Listen as the owners take you on their personal journey to success, and you can find Funkytown Brewery in several bars in the city, or even during a game at the United Center, Guaranteed Rate or Wrigley Field!

Co-creators Mallory Babatunde & Christina Wilborn are all about women empowerment. One of the many ways they uplift others is through their mutual love of dance. They dreamed of building a movement, now known as WomxnVIBE, that would help encourage, empower, and give women a space to network.

VIBE dance class was created to remind women that taking up space is necessary to develop the stronghold in our individual powers. Learn more and how to get involved here!

Lisa Marsh, CEO of Ms. P's Gluten Free, shares the inspiring story of how she took her personal health journey and baking gluten-free products in her kitchen...to the shelves at Whole Foods (and Mariano's very soon)!

Ms. P’s Gluten Free is an ode to her mother, Mrs. Youlos Patterson-Brown. Since the launch of Ms. P’s Gluten Free in 2015, it has become a family business with everyone pitching in to contribute their unique talents. Listen to Lisa share the origin story and the steps she took to take her business to the next level, and order your...

"Delivering unforgettable, revenue-hungry video content" for their clients, INDIRAP is the #1 video production and content marketing agency in the Midwest!

Being in business for more than 10 years, founder Julian Tillotson is an all-around media and video content guru. If you are looking to brand your business and take it to the next level, this is a can't miss episode.

INDIRAP Productions is a full service video production and video marketing agency. INDIRAP provides full ideation and content creation of video content that is used in the areas of: marketing, advertising, branding, sales, training, recruitment, internal / external...

Lauren Jackson is the founder and owner of Cultivate Your Essence, an all Black and female-staffed mental health organization right here in Chicago!

No matter where you are in your mental health journey, they are here to help. Their practice focuses on helping women everywhere foster a healthy relationship with themselves that improves their overall mental health and wellness through counseling, coaching, and consulting work.

Need some encouragement to get started? Listen as Lauren talks with Jasmine about how her business got started, and how committed she is to help you be your very best self.

What is Melan Mind? A community of Black women supporting other Black women through transformational coaching programs, events, workshops and courses. Harnessing the profound wisdom of mindfulness and holistic living, they empower women of color to make lasting, welcome changes in their lives.

Listen to this enlightening conversation from the founder of Melan Mind Kimberly Peavler, a certified holistic life coach, holistic nurse, and mindfulness practitioner.

Visit her website and learn more here!