How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield! In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the importance of community support for black businesses and entrepreneurs and the urgent need for a shift in consciousness within the black community.

Join us as Dreena Whitfield sits down with the remarkable Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, the visionary CEO of the Village Market. Dr. Hallmon's social enterprise not only supports black businesses but also promotes cultural awareness, making her the perfect guest for this enlightening discussion.

Prepare to be inspired as Dr. Hallmon shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey and unwavering vision for the Village Market. From her high school yearbook prediction of owning multiple small businesses and traveling extensively to the reality of making it happen, Dr. Hallmon's story will leave you in awe.

But that's not all! In this episode, Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon takes the mic to discuss her experience of moving to Atlanta and building her own brand. She reveals how Atlanta's vibrant arts and culture scene inspired her to become an entrepreneur and the challenges she faced along the way.

We'll also explore the transition from education to entrepreneurship, as Dr. Hallmon highlights the importance of economic development and upward mobility within black communities. Her journey from a one-person operation to the thriving Village Market will leave you motivated and ready to take on the world.


But wait, there's more! Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon will also share invaluable insights into starting a business, advocating for entrepreneurs, and the unapologetic value that black people bring to society. Her powerful words will resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and community advocates alike.


So, if you're ready to embrace the power of community support and witness the transformative shift in consciousness within the black community, don't miss this extraordinary episode of "How I Got Here" with Dreena Whitfield.


Tune in now and be part of the movement that empowers black entrepreneurs and showcases their incredible products. Remember, when black people are empowered, every community prospers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired and make a difference.


- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey as an entrepreneur and vision for the Village Market

- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's experience of moving to Atlanta and building their brand

- Importance of authentic self-expression and surrounding oneself with genuine individuals in Atlanta's entrepreneurial spirit

- Transition from education to entrepreneurship and the importance of small businesses in lifting communities out of poverty

- Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon's journey in starting a business and advocating for entrepreneurs

- Overcoming self-doubt as an entrepreneur and embracing the privilege

- Importance of supporting small black businesses and excellence in supporting black entrepreneurs

- Support as a verb and the significance of support in entrepreneurship

- Importance of finding and surrounding oneself with supportive and like-minded individuals

- Our Village United and the Elevate program for Black businesses

- Expansion of the Elevated Cities program nationally

- Importance of community support and conscious support for the black community

- Shift in consciousness and consistent support for black businesses and individuals

Introduction with Dreena Whitfield [00:00:00] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about being a classroom teacher and her dedication to her students [00:07:31] Dr. Key Hallmon discusses the stress and challenges of being an entrepreneur [00:10:02] Dr. Key Hallmon shares her perspective on affirming oneself and being unapologetically for her people [00:13:06] Dr. Key Hallmon talks about the importance of having a vision and expanding beyond one's...

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Creators and Guests

Host
Dreena Whitfield
Dreena Whitfield-Brown is the Founder and CEO of WhitPR, an integrated strategic communications agency with 15+ years serving clients in the nonprofit, corporate, and political sectors. Recognized as one of PRWeek's 40 Under 40, a PR News Top Woman in PR, and named to Inc.'s 2025 Female Founders 500 List. She created How I Got Here to have the raw, honest conversations about entrepreneurship that nobody has on the record.
Producer
Keena Williams
Keena Williams is the founder of Struxa and the Executive Producer, Writer, and Creative Director of How I Got Here.

What is How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield?

How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield goes beyond the highlight reel with Black women founders, executives, and leaders. Real conversations about the pivots, the setbacks, and the purpose behind the work. From bootstrapping a beauty brand with $500 to leading a professional sports franchise, each episode explores the moments that shaped who they became and the cost of building something meaningful.
For women navigating leadership, business ownership, career reinvention, and the cost of ambition.

New episodes biweekly on Wednesdays.

Host: Dreena Whitfield
Executive Producer, Writer & Creative Director: Keena Williams / Struxa
howigotherewdreenaw.substack.com