She Took the Torch: Leading, Acquiring, and Redefining Legacy When leadership meets legacy—one woman’s journey from family roots to future vision.

In this episode of Black Business Live, we explore the extraordinary journey of Karla Trotman, who stepped into leadership not by starting something new, but by acquiring and evolving the business her family built.

From breaking barriers in manufacturing to navigating the complexities of ownership and succession, Karla is rewriting the narrative of legacy and generational wealth. Her story reveals what it means to take the torch, steward tradition, and boldly build forward—redefining power, leadership, and wealth for the next generation.

Creators and Guests

Host

Belva Bell

International award-winning author, Experiential Strategist, Founder of Be The Brand Network.

Host

Tolu Akindunni

Social Entrepreneur, Venture Builder, and CEO of The Innovation Tribe LLC

What is Black Business Live Podcast?

Where bold conversations meet Black excellence.

Black Business Live (BBL) is a live, immersive storytelling podcast spotlighting the journeys of successful Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and business leaders who have scaled their companies and are committed to helping others rise.

Born out of a deep need for community, strategic partnership, and authentic representation, BBL goes beyond traditional interviews. Each episode is recorded in front of a studio audience and features accomplished leaders who exemplify Black business excellence.

BBL is part of the Black Business Network, a peer-driven platform where entrepreneurs connect, collaborate, and grow, all housed within All Things Black and Beautiful (ATBB), an economic development initiative focused on business education, market access, and sustainable growth.

This podcast bridges the gap between knowledge and transformation, showing that real growth happens through visibility, connection, and proximity to those who’ve done it before.

Tune in to be inspired, informed, and empowered.