Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? Lessons from your Local Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

Why do so many marketing campaigns fail to connect with multicultural audiences, and what is the difference between branding, marketing, and advertising?

Fernando Alvarez, founder and CEO of Dallas-based Vaquero Advertising, explains that genuine market research and deep cultural understanding—beyond simple language translation—are essential to winning over Hispanic consumers and building long-term brand loyalty

In this Wild Card Wednesday episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Fernando Alvarez. Fernando shares his journey from Querétaro, Mexico, to launching Vaquero Advertising in Dallas, explains why small...

How is modern plastic surgery shifting away from over-the-top enhancements toward natural, confidence-boosting results?

Plastic surgeon Dr. Kelly Schultz shows that true aesthetic enhancement means targeting subtle insecurities while preserving a patient's natural character in a high-touch, concierge-style environment.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, recorded live at the W Hotel during the What She Said showcase with @themoderndaywife, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Kelly Schultz. Dr. Kelly discusses stepping away from traditional, intimidating clinic aesthetics to build a feminine, spa-like practice; how her...

How can small business owners prepare their company for a successful, high-value exit without getting stuck in the 70% of listings that never sell?

Business broker Paxton Smith (founder of Anchorpoint Associates) says maintaining clean 3-year profit-and-loss statements, separating personal debit card expenses from business accounts, and building brand transferability are key steps to achieving a 90%+ close rate when selling a business.

In this Wild Card Wednesday bonus episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Paxton Smith. Paxton shares his journey from corporate finance at Capital One...

How can a shapewear brand bring together comfort, effective shaping, and thoughtful product innovation while building a lasting business?

In this episode, Shapellx co-founder Shane Shi shares how her personal experiences and entrepreneurial journey have shaped the brand’s approach to modern shapewear. From rethinking the balance between compression and everyday comfort to refining fit and construction through months of testing on real women, Shane discusses the ideas and product development process behind Shapellx.

Recorded live at the W Hotel during the What She Said showcase with @themoderndaywife, this episode features host Brianna Jovahn in co...

How long does it actually take to build a sustainable health habit, and why do generic one-size-fits-all diets fail?

Registered Dietitian and integrative nutritionist Meridan Zerner reveals that building a lasting habit takes 66 days (not 28), and true preventive health requires personalized data—like Resting Metabolic Rate and muscle mass testing—rather than trusting a bathroom scale.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, recorded live at the W Hotel during the What She Said showcase, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Meridan Zerner. Meridan shares her transition after 25 years at the Cooper Clinic to laun...

How do small business owners generate real revenue and build brand staying power without relying on viral social media algorithms?

Branding expert and serial product founder Danni Fernino (Visions From Neptune) shows that hitting the streets, engaging directly with your local community, and defining one simple-sentence brand foundation drive more sustainable sales than chasing passive social media views.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Dallas native Danni Fernino to discuss the real-world grit required to scale product brands. Danni breaks down why small-business...

How do small business owners bridge the gap between getting social media marketing eyeballs and actually closing signed contracts?

ConvertHer founder and sales strategist Tiffany Fulcher reveals that consistent email follow-up—taking 3 to 7 touches—and leveraging AI-powered daily sales systems are the fastest ways to convert silent leads into revenue.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, recorded live at the W Hotel during the What She Said showcase, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with sales strategist and tech co-owner Tiffany Fulcher. Tiffany breaks down why dead leads in your 30-day email inbox are leav...

How do you pivot from catastrophic personal loss into building a thriving, full-time business?

Realtor and luxury fashion designer Chantel McKnight (founder of Denim Overdose) proves that rock-bottom moments—like losing her home in a fire—can become divine pivot points to leave a 9-to-5 and build a profitable, multi-business lifestyle.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Chantel McKnight at the W Hotel during the What She Said showcase. Chantel shares how childhood inspirations (That's So Raven, True Jackson, VP, and Rugrats' Charlotte Pickles) sparked her passion for...

Season 12 of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? kicks off with a special series from the What She Said event, sponsored by Modern Day Wife in Dallas, Texas.

Brianna takes listeners behind the scenes of the event, where she and the What’s Good Productions team hosted a media corner and connected with business owners, influencers, podcasters, and other entrepreneurs to capture and share their stories.

This season features eight conversations recorded in one day, including interviews with the creator of a dental product line, a sales strategist, two plastic surgeons, and a Bl...

How can a for-profit business drive global social impact without relying on non-profit donations? Mended founder and social impact entrepreneur Mallory Martin shows how commercial businesses can create sustainable, above-living-wage jobs for survivor artisans in India through ethically crafted home textiles.

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Mallory Martin to explore her transition from corporate sports and International Justice Mission (IJM) to building an East Dallas brand rooted in purpose. Mallory breaks down how block-printed table linens power ethical job creation, how to turn big ideas into daily execution...

In this recap episode of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good?, Brianna wraps up a powerful three-episode Media Content Day season featuring Leah Abasolo, Coach T, and attorney Hunter Beiderman.

Brianna shares the behind-the-scenes story of how she and Marian collaborated to create a Media Content Day at Business HQ in Dallas, giving local business owners the opportunity to capture podcast interviews, headshots, and other content they could use to grow their visibility.

She also revisits some of the key topics from the season, including nonprofit development, hormones and wellness, and criminal record clearing. Looking ahead, Br...

In this episode, we sit down with criminal defense attorney Hunter Beiderman to discuss his journey into criminal law and his commitment to helping clients navigate difficult legal situations. Hunter shares how mentorship and community shaped his career, what clients can expect when seeking legal help, and how the expungement process can offer a fresh start. The conversation also explores career pivots, changes in marijuana possession laws, and the importance of having informed legal guidance when facing a criminal charge.

Episode Chapters;

00:00 Arrests That Never Disappear

00:52 Meet Hunter Biederman

01:36...

In this episode, we sit down with Coach T (Leticia Taylor-Buggs) to explore her journey from athlete to full-time entrepreneur in holistic wellness. Coach T shares how her experience as an athlete shaped her approach to wellness, how she evolved her services to meet her clients’ changing needs, and what the client journey looks like inside her programs. She also shares the future of her business and the impact of taking a more holistic approach to helping clients reach their wellness goals.

Episode Chapters;

00:00 Midlife Symptoms Wakeup

00:33 Meet Brianna and Coach T<...

In this episode, we sit down with Leah Abasolo, founder of Baron Von Consulting, to explore how a life shaped by constant change, corporate experience, and entrepreneurship led her to help others build purpose-driven businesses. Leah shares how growing up as an Army brat influenced her personally and professionally, what brought her to Dallas, and how the skills and relationships she developed during her corporate career became the foundation for her own business. She also discusses supporting entrepreneurs who feel stuck, her evolving role as a coach and mentor, and her vision for expanding Baron Von’s community impact.

Season 11 of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? is bringing something new! In this trailer, Brianna Jovahn introduces a special series highlighting local business owners who participated in a community-focused Media Content Day created to help entrepreneurs gain affordable, high-quality content and greater visibility for their businesses.

The project brought together podcast interviews, blog and newsletter features, social media clips, professional headshots, and behind-the-scenes B-roll—all designed to give local business owners months of content from one experience. Throughout the new season, listeners will hear the stories and journeys of featured entrepreneurs from different backgrounds, including Leah...

Season 10 of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? brought together a diverse group of experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for conversations centered around wealth management, financial education, business growth, and building a stronger financial future.

In this recap episode, Brianna Jovahn looks back at the people she interviewed throughout the season and highlights some of the most meaningful conversations and lessons they shared. From understanding money and investing to building businesses, creating generational wealth, protecting your finances, and shifting your mindset around success, Season 10 explored the many different ways people can approach financial growth.

Br...

In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Smith, entrepreneur, community builder, and founder of Dallas Girl Gang, to explore how authentic relationships can become the foundation of successful businesses and thriving communities. Amanda shares her journey from the classroom to entrepreneurship, the pivots that shaped her career, and why intentional networking is about far more than exchanging business cards. She also offers an inside look at the mission behind Dallas Girl Gang and what it truly takes to create a community where people feel seen, supported, and connected.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 Make People...

In this episode, we sit down with William Bramblett, a financial professional, to discuss the importance of risk management, personalized financial planning, and preparing for long-term success. William shares how his early experiences with money shaped his career, his journey from intern to financial advisor, and the process he uses to help clients make informed financial decisions. From managing fluctuating income as a business owner to understanding the benefits of a Solo 401(k), this episode offers practical guidance for anyone looking to strengthen their financial future.

Key Takeaways

Are you exposing your small business to massive legal risks without even knowing it? Former Deloitte auditor turned Fractional General Counsel, Asia Wright, breaks down the exact legal foundations you need to build and scale your business fearlessly! SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and wealth-building insights!

In this episode, we sit down with Asia Wright, attorney and founder of The Wright Choice Firm, to break down the legal realities entrepreneurs often overlook when building a business. Asia shares common misconceptions about attorneys, the most frequent contract mistakes she sees, and how she helps clients assess...

Are you a professional woman struggling with imposter syndrome as you transition into your own business? Marian Diop shares how to build the systems, mindset, and confidence you need to make the leap!

👇 SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and business insights!

In this special Wild Card Wednesday bonus episode, Brianna Jovahn welcomes you to the newly rebranded "Dallas, Texas What's Good" podcast! Today she sits down with Marian Diop, a photographer and business coach who shares her incredible journey of moving from Hawaii to DFW. Marian discusses her time doing corporate insurance consulting, the...

Are you unknowingly setting your business up to fail by skipping your foundation or discounting your services? VR Small is here to help you smash those survival statistics! SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations and wealth-building insights!

In this episode, we sit down with VR Small, founder of the Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center (VWEC), to discuss entrepreneurship, financial independence, and building sustainable businesses that create long-term impact. VR shares how her understanding of entrepreneurship has evolved through working with veteran women, the importance of strong business foundations, and the role sales plays in transforming ideas in...

In this episode, we sit down with Heather Weatherspoon, esthetician, entrepreneur, and founder of a mentorship and scholarship-based community, to explore her journey in the beauty industry and beyond. Heather shares how she built a thriving esthetics business performing up to 120 Brazilian waxes a week, and how that foundation evolved into a mission to educate, mentor, and empower other estheticians. From building wealth to giving back, this conversation dives into pivoting, purpose, and creating sustainable impact through business and community.

Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!):

00:00:00 - Introduction & Making $100K in 10...

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Malena, a former NFL player turned fintech entrepreneur, to explore his journey from professional sports into the world of financial technology. Ben shares how he leveraged his marketing background to build a data-driven solution that helps users better understand and improve their finances. From identifying market gaps to choosing a B2B model via banks, this conversation highlights innovation, resilience, and the power of data to drive meaningful financial change.

Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!):

00:00:00 - Introduction & The NFL to FinTech Transition<...

In this wildcard episode, we sit down with Krishna Powell, business strategist and HR expert, to explore what it truly takes to grow a business beyond the startup mindset. Krishna shares how entrepreneurs can transition from operating small to building companies with strong systems, departments, and intentional culture. From defining company values early on to aligning teams around a shared vision, this conversation offers practical insights for business owners ready to scale with structure and purpose.

⏳ Episode Chapters (Click to skip to a topic!):

00:00:00 - Introduction to Wild Card Wednesday & Krishna Powell

...

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, we sit down with Kevin Jefferson to explore what wealth truly means beyond money—freedom, legacy, and opportunity. Kevin shares how his early experiences shaped his understanding of finances, the lessons he gained through the military, and the turning point that led him to ask deeper questions about money. This conversation dives into practical tools, mindset shifts, and the first steps to take when you begin generating extra income and want to grow it intentionally.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00:00 - Introduction & Money Mindset Teaser

00:00:54 - Ic...

In this episode, we sit down with Darlisa Diltz, a business strategist and advocate for entrepreneurial growth, to break down what it truly takes to build a sustainable and scalable business. Darlisa shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed to confidently embracing entrepreneurship, while highlighting the importance of strong foundations, audience clarity, and strategic decision-making. This conversation dives into the realities of funding, the difference between being an entrepreneur versus a business owner, and how to navigate both the highs and the pivots along the journey.

Episode Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction to Season 10

[00:01:27...

In this episode, we sit down with Tracy Ballard-Arline, a financial advisor and wealth-building expert, to explore the steps to achieve true financial security. Tracy shares her personal financial journey, the importance of self-education, and actionable strategies for building financial benefits beyond a traditional job. Listeners will gain insight into common financial disconnects, her specialty areas, and her four-pillar framework designed to guide individuals toward long-term stability and growth.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 From Struggle to Strategy: Tracy’s Financial Journey

00:30 Welcome to Season 10: Wealth Building Conversations

01:05 What Does Financial Security Re...

In this Wild Card Wednesday bonus episode of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good Podcast, we sit down with William Houston (Campus Director, North Texas Job Corps Center) and Nikki Carter (Work-Based Learning Specialist & Business Liaison) to break down one of the nation’s most powerful—yet underutilized—career pathways: Job Corps.

Created in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, Job Corps is a free U.S. Department of Labor program designed to help young adults ages 16–24 gain the skills, certifications, and support needed to enter the workforce and build sustainable careers.

This episode goes...

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good?, we sit down with Linda Fisk, a global leadership expert and founder of LeadHership Global, to explore what it truly means to lead with clarity and confidence. Linda shares how she supports women in reaching their goals through intentional conversations, strategic thinking, and actionable steps. From overcoming imposter syndrome to shifting from planning to execution, this episode is packed with insights for leaders ready to step fully into their vision and take aligned action.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 Women in Venture Capital Reality Check

00:33 Podcast...

In this episode, we sit down with Tommie Coleman, a dedicated insurance and retirement planning specialist, to explore how thoughtful financial planning can protect families and build long-term security. Tommy shares his journey into the insurance industry, why he chose to focus on retirement planning, life insurance, and annuities, and the insights he’s gained helping clients navigate options they didn’t even know existed. Listeners will gain clarity on life insurance, dividends, and how a well-structured financial plan can create peace of mind for today and tomorrow.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 Life Insurance Leverage

How do I build generational wealth and improve my financial habits, starting from where I am?

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good?, we sit down with Frances Smith-Dean to explore how early money experiences shape our financial habits and how intentional planning can shift generational outcomes. Frances shares how her upbringing influenced her mindset around money, the pivotal moment she trusted herself enough to turn her experience into a business, and what it truly means to “follow the instructions” when building wealth. From foundational financial steps to personal highs and lows along her jour...

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good Podcast, we sit down with ShaRhonda Hill, Assistant Vice President - Market Ops- TX & LA at TruFund Financial Services, to explore innovative ways entrepreneurs can fund their businesses, build wealth, and create sustainable real estate portfolios.

ShaRhonda shares how TruFund bridges the gap for small businesses, the advisory services she provides to support both funding and mindset, and practical strategies for stepping into real estate beyond traditional methods. Listeners will gain insights into funding, entrepreneurship, and long-term wealth creation from someone transforming communities through financial empowerment.

We’re back for Season 10! Can you believe it? Since 2019, Dallas: Texas: What’s Good Podcast has been bringing the heat, and we’re celebrating this milestone with a theme chosen by you: Wealth Management.

This season is personal. With my mom retiring, I’m asking the same questions you are. We’re sitting down with experts in insurance, stocks, bonds, real estate, and more to help you build your own ecosystem of wealth.

What to Expect this Season:

In this Wild Card Wednesday episode of the Dallas, Texas: What’s Good Podcast, Brianna Jovahn sits down with entrepreneur and fashion innovator Adrian Mills to discuss how a simple travel frustration turned into a growing luxury brand.

Adrian shares his journey from being a self-proclaimed “shoe head” to creating a high-end travel shoe bag designed to protect footwear while on the go. What started as an idea in an airport evolved into a fully developed product after years of research, seven prototypes, and a commitment to getting the design just right.

This conversation goes beyond...

In this bonus episode of the Dallas, Texas: What’s Good Podcast, Brianna Jovahn sits down with emerging fashion designer Angel Barajas to explore how passion, creativity, and self-expression can evolve into a powerful brand.

Angel shares how his love for art began at a young age and eventually led him to pursue fashion design as his true calling. From early sketches in school to earning recognition for costume creation, his journey highlights the importance of staying committed to what you love — even when others don’t fully understand the vision.

With a design philosophy center...

In this Wild Card Wednesday episode of the What’s Good Podcast, Brianna Jovahn sits down with Coach Kevin Voisin — mindset architect, entrepreneur, COO of Apogee Strong, and proud father of five — for a raw, unfiltered conversation about failure, entrepreneurship, divorce, miscarriage, and the power of owning your imperfections.

This conversation dives into what it really means to embrace failure, pivot in business, and understand that perfection is a myth — but excellence is achievable.

If you're an entrepreneur, leader, or simply someone navigating growth, this episode will challenge the way you think about success.

Episod...

As we close out Season 9: Wellness, we’re revisiting one of the most powerful conversations of the season — our episode with Dr. JuNene K.

In this highlight reel, we revisit key moments from her full episode where she breaks down the connection between breath, subconscious reprogramming, bio-resonance technology, and radical self-healing.

Episode Timestamps;

00:00 Season Nine Recap

00:42 Season Ten Preview

01:50 Meet Dr. JuNune K

02:00 Breathwork Basics

02:22 Pain Into Power

03:36 Authenticity And Healing

04:18 Hypnotherapy Explained

05:13 BrainTap And Quantum

06:02 Bio Reso...

As we transition to more concise, impactful content, Arlana shares how farming and urban agriculture serve as powerful tools for holistic healing and physical wellness. We discuss the critical difference between soil vs. dirt, how to start your own home garden, and the vital need for better food quality and access within Black and Brown communities. Whether you're interested in meditation through nature or looking for practical urban farming tips, this episode explores how to reconnect with the land to improve your mental health.

Timestamped Highlights:

In this episode of the Dallas, Texas: What's Good podcast, host Brianna Jovahn introduces the upcoming season focused on wealth management while wrapping up the previous season on wellness. The episode features a recap of Nichole Daher's inspirational journey creating 'Success on the Spectrum,' an autism treatment clinic that evolved into the first autism treatment franchise in the U.S. Nicole shares her personal motivations, business challenges, and valuable advice for parents and entrepreneurs. Brianna also emphasizes the importance of community support and invites listeners to engage by providing reviews and feedback.

00:00 Welcome to What's Good...

In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good podcast, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Nichole Kirk, co-owner of the faith-based jewelry and apparel business, Dear Heart. Nichole shares her entrepreneurial journey, balancing creativity and business with her spiritual calling and the importance of obeying God's direction. From overcoming financial struggles to growing a seven-figure business, Nichole emphasizes the significance of trust, community, and divine guidance in achieving success. Listeners will be inspired by Nichole's story of faith, perseverance, and the power of prayer in building a thriving business.

00:00 Introduction to What's Good Podcast

00:30 Meet...