Podcast
The Journey with Morgan DeBaun
Hosted by Morgan DeBaun · EN
Welcome to The Journey podcast, a weekly podcast that delves into the captivating stories of purpose-driven achievers on their quest for living their best lives. Hosted by serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Blavity Inc., Morgan DeBaun, and features a diverse lineup of guests such as Emmy-nominated actors, elite athletes, experienced doulas, viral social media influencers, eco-conscious pioneers, and more. Tune in for empowering conversations sharing personal growth and self-discovery experiences. Embark on The Journey with us!
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Episodes
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How Dia Simms Is Shaking Up The Spirits Industry with Pronghorn
Nov 19, 202400:51:41Summary readyIn this episode, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Dia Simms, a powerhouse in the spirits industry and co-founder of Pronghorn, a company aimed at diversifying the industry from the inside out. Together, they discuss the intricacies of the spirits industry and how diversity can be improved across industries.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyIn this episode:00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast00:25 Dia Simms' Early Career and Education03:26 Transition to Radio Sales04:50 Entrepreneurial Ventures in the Spirits Industry07:09 The Rise of Celebrity-Owned Liquor Brands09:32 Understanding Liquor Industry Deals13:10 Challenges in Liquor Sponsorships15:48 Introduction to Pronghorn16:56 Pronghorn's Mission and Impact22:39 The Blend of Private Equity and Venture Capital23:32 Building a Bigger Table: The Importance of Diversity24:27 Challenges in Supporting Black Entrepreneurs25:54 The Pronghorn Analogy: Going Far and Fast Together27:25 Convincing the Wealthy to Support Diversity33:39 The Power of Collective Consumer Action41:57 The Importance of Ownership and Investment44:27 Conclusion and Call to ActionIn the episode, Dia shares her path into the spirits world from a background with the Department of Defense and radio sales. Together, Morgan and Dia dive into the popularity of celebrity brand partnerships and the behind-the-scenes work of securing liquor sponsors for major events like Blavity's AfroTech.Dia opens up about the mission behind Pronghorn: to create lasting change in the spirits industry by investing in Black-owned businesses. She explains how this model of diversification can be replicated across various industries. Dia and Morgan also discuss why appealing to the financial benefits of diversity can better resonate with industry leaders than relying on emotional arguments alone.This episode is packed with valuable insights into business, diversity, and intentional investing from someone who has had a hand in shifting the billion-dollar spirits industry. Interested in working with Pronghorn? The organization is actively looking for businesses to invest in, so reach out to Dia Simms to connect!More from Dia:https://www.instagram.com/diasimms/https://www.pronghorn.co/#topJoin the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryPower & Progress In Fashion with The Cut's Editor In Chief Lindsay Peoples
Nov 12, 202400:45:18Summary readyThis week, Morgan DeBaun is joined by Lindsay Peoples, editor-in-chief of The Cut, for an eye-opening conversation on the state of the fashion industry and Lindsay's journey to redefine success for herself.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyIn this episode:00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast00:02 Lindsay Peoples: Defying the Odds00:50 The Media Landscape Today02:23 Fashion Industry Insights03:46 Challenges in Size Inclusivity06:43 The Reality of Black Designers11:34 Supporting Black Designers13:37 The Glamorous and Unglamorous Life16:21 Navigating Public Perception19:47 Social Media Missteps at Work21:03 Communicating Business Challenges21:48 The Overwhelm of Modern Information23:39 Balancing Personal and Professional Life29:07 Navigating Single Life and Dating31:55 Empowering Ambitious Women34:22 Redefining Success and Personal Rules38:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIn the episode, Lindsay and Morgan pull back the curtain on the fashion world, challenging its perceived progressiveness and exposing the centralization of power that often leaves Black designers at a disadvantage. Lindsay opens up about the vital work her foundation is doing to create real opportunities for underrepresented designers, and how consumers can support Black creatives directly.Beyond fashion, Lindsay shares her “pinch me” moments, balancing a life that’s both glamorous and far more grounded than people might expect. She reflects on how her sense of self used to be tied closely to her career, after becoming editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue at just 26. Now, embracing single life and letting go of people-pleasing, Lindsay discusses the strength she’s found in redefining her own success. Both Morgan and Lindsay offer honest insights into the complexities of being a leader, rewriting the rules, and creating spaces where authenticity and ambition can thrive.Tune in for a candid conversation on breaking barriers, empowering others, and finding freedom in self-acceptance. Plus, hear Morgan share insights from her upcoming book, Rewrite Your Rules.More from Lindsay:https://www.instagram.com/lrpeoples/?hl=enhttps://www.thecut.com/author/lindsay-peoples/Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryTeri Ijeoma's Investment Guide: Achieving Financial Freedom Through Smart Stock Choices
Nov 5, 202401:02:30Summary readyIn this episode of The Journey, host Morgan DeBaun sits down with investment expert Teri Ijeoma for a powerful conversation about stocks, wealth-building, and financial empowerment.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyIn this episode:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:21 Teri's Background and Achievements01:09 The Concept of Trade and Travel01:41 Early Investing Experiences02:49 Understanding Compounding Interest05:46 Overcoming Investment Fears07:12 The Role of Foundations in Wealth Building11:04 Investment Strategies and Education18:43 Commodities and Futures Trading23:00 Personal Investment Reflections25:21 Embracing the Plateau25:34 Reaching Financial Milestones25:44 The Fear of Losing Wealth26:08 Lifestyle Over Money26:48 Vulnerability and Wealth27:41 Levels of Wealth28:20 Investment Strategies and Risks29:55 Contentment and Growth34:06 Networking and Inspiration38:38 Learning to Trade41:11 Setting Financial Goals46:14 Balancing Life and Wealth49:09 Conclusion and Next StepsIn the episode, Teri shares her expertise in investing, offering a deep dive into her successful trading platform, Trade & Travel, which has helped thousands of people learn the art of trading stock, managing risk, and understanding market trends.Morgan opens up about her own investment journey, discussing her financial goals and the importance of pushing past comfort zones. Together, Morgan and Teri explore the psychological barriers that often hold people back from investing, such as fear and complacency, and why overcoming these challenges is essential for financial growth.Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your financial knowledge, this episode offers a roadmap to take control of your financial future. Tune in for an empowering conversation aimed at helping you break through your financial limits and start building wealth today!More from Teri:https://teriijeoma.comhttps://www.instagram.com/teriijeomahttps://tradeandtravel.comJoin the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.com
SummaryHow to Build a Successful Podcast: Morgan DeBaun on Community, Networking & Monetization
Oct 29, 202400:26:02Summary readyIn this episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun dives into what makes a podcast truly successful beyond download counts. She shares how consistent, long-form content has helped her build a community and expand her audience. Morgan discusses the financial challenges of high-quality podcast production and explores future plans, including in-person interviews and an upcoming book launch. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring podcasters or those looking to add value to their shows through community-building, effective networking, and monetization strategies.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyGo to Quince.com/journey for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Try Found for free at Found.com/JOURNEYIn this episode:00:00 Introduction to the Journey Podcast00:23 Understanding Podcast Success Metrics01:42 The Power of Long-Form Storytelling02:52 Expanding Audience Reach04:00 Personal Growth Through Podcasting06:08 Building Business Relationships09:20 Financial Aspects of Podcasting11:26 Evaluating Podcast Brand Deals12:32 Understanding My Audience14:03 Reevaluating Podcast Strategy15:24 Expanding Reach with Video Podcasts17:07 Future Plans for the Podcast18:37 Benefits & Challenges of In-Person Interviews19:43 Considering a Move for Better Opportunities20:59 Final Thoughts and EncouragementIn the episode, Morgan shares her insights on what truly makes a podcast successful - and it's not just about hitting a million downloads per episode! She explains how The Journey has allowed her to reach new audiences and build a sense of community through consistent, long-form content. Morgan reflects on how podcasting has helped her refine her personal philosophy and meaningfully network with individuals and brands.Morgan opens up about the financial realities of podcast production, especially for a high-quality video podcast, and why she’s reevaluating the monetization model of podcast networks. As she looks to the future, Morgan shares her excitement for more in-person interviews and her upcoming book launch.If you've considered starting a podcast or want to learn how to create more value within your existing podcast, this episode is for you. Enjoying the show? Let Morgan know what you want to see next on The Journey!Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryHow Fawn Weaver Built a BILLION DOLLAR Whiskey Brand
Oct 22, 202401:03:53Summary readyThis week, Morgan DeBaun is joining Fawn Weaver at Uncle Nearest Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee, to discuss the triumphs and legacy of the award-winning whiskey brand.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyGo to Quince.com/journey for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Try Found for free at Found.com/JOURNEYIn this episode:00:00 Welcome to Shelbyville00:15 The Distillery Experience00:55 Big Goals and Achievements02:08 The Power of Earned Media03:22 Setting and Achieving Impossible Goals05:11 Motivating the Team08:17 Navigating the Spirits Industry14:34 Wealth Equity and Investment15:35 Overcoming Historical Trauma23:47 The Strength of Our Ancestors26:17 Authenticity and Resilience27:32 Delivering Solutions as an Entrepreneur27:57 The Burden and the Yoke: A Deeper Look28:56 Managing a Large Operation29:21 Diversity at the Distillery31:43 The Story of Nearest Green33:10 The Legacy of Jack Daniel and Nearest Green39:02 The Importance of Excellence in Black-Owned Businesses40:47 Navigating Social Media and Misinformation48:47 Embracing Challenges and Finding Passion50:09 Final Thoughts and Connecting with the AudienceIn the episode, Fawn opens up about the ambitious goals she set for Uncle Nearest and how she's capitalized on press coverage to make significant strides in a fiercely competitive industry. She and Morgan dive deep into wealth equity and investing as African Americans.In a candid discussion about imposter syndrome, Fawn explains why she doesn’t believe in the concept, seeing it as a self-fulfilling prophecy rather than a legitimate barrier to success. She reflects on the power of walking into rooms with confidence and the importance of remembering her strong ancestral lineage when facing challenges.Fawn also reveals the true story of Uncle Nearest, correcting myths about Nearest Green and Jack Daniels, and offering a historian’s lens on the legacy of Tennessee whiskey. The conversation shifts to the buying power of the Black community and the missed opportunities to create true Black excellence in recent years. She emphasizes the importance of checking our sources in an era where social media can be manipulated to create division, and she shares her relentless mindset when it comes to overcoming hurdles and outperforming the competition.Through it all, Fawn’s insights on passion, purpose, and faith shine through, offering an inspiring look at what it takes to succeed at the highest levels. Tune in, and be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to support the podcast!More from Fawn:https://www.instagram.com/fawn.weaverhttps://unclenearest.com/distillery/Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryHow Elaine Welteroth is Revolutionizing Maternal Health with BirthFUND
Oct 15, 202400:56:51Summary readyThis week, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Elaine Welteroth, the former editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue, to discuss the inception of BirthFUND, her impact-driven organization that is bringing midwife care to more mothers.This episode is brought to you by:Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyFor a limited time, kids eat FREE! Visit HelloFresh.com/journeykids to unlock this offer.Go to cozyearth.com/journey and use code JOURNEY for an exclusive 40% discount.In this episode:00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast00:47 Family Adventures at Martha's Vineyard04:01 Redefining Success and Finding Balance06:14 A New Chapter: Love and Life in Nashville14:44 Navigating Motherhood and Birth Challenges21:04 Rethinking Maternal Care: A Call for Change22:26 The BirthFUND: A New Beginning24:33 Empowering Parents: A Shift in Focus27:39 Building a Movement: From Vision to Reality30:41 The Power of Community and Collaboration36:51 Midwifery Care as a Solution39:43 Personal Journeys and Professional Impact45:40 Final Thoughts and Future HopesIn this episode, the two friends start by catching up on their lives, with Elaine reflecting on her Covid-era wedding and Morgan recalling how she met her fiancé Josh. Morgan shares her birth story, and Elaine discusses how she learned of the positive impact that midwifery can have on birth outcomes, particularly for Black mothers.They move into a conversation on BirthFUND, Elaine's organization that funds midwifery care for women in the US. Elaine offers insight into how she turned her vision for BirthFUND into a reality and provides practical advice on how others can take action on important causes.Tune in, and get ready to feel inspired by Elaine's commitment to the cause! If you are a fan of The Journey with Morgan DeBaun, be sure to leave a rating and review to show your support!More from Elaine:https://www.instagram.com/elainewelteroth/https://www.elainewelteroth.com/https://www.thebirthfund.com/Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryThe Business of Fashion with Marie Claire's Editor in Chief Nikki Ogunnaike
Oct 8, 202400:51:04Summary readyThis week, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Nikki Ogunnaike, fashion journalist and editor-in-chief of Marie Claire magazine, for an insightful conversation on the fashion industry, trends, and journalism.This episode is brought to you by:Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyGo to cozyearth.com/journey and use code JOURNEY for an exclusive 40% discount.Go to Quince.com/journey for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.For a limited time, kids eat FREE! Visit HelloFresh.com/journeykids to unlock this offer.Try Found for free at Found.com/JOURNEYIn the episode:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:03 Understanding the Fashion World03:02 The Business of Fashion Shows06:20 Behind the Scenes at Fashion Week09:47 Nikki's Career Journey14:16 The Marie Claire Woman17:20 Navigating Political and Social Issues23:37 Trends and Personal Style26:09 Navigating Personal Style as a Woman30:14 The Business of Fashion Influencers31:42 The Rise of Dupe Culture35:46 The Bridal Industrial Complex40:04 The Importance of Supporting Journalism44:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIn the episode, Nikki exposes the business side of the fashion industry, providing an insider's perspective on Fashion Week and what goes into fashion shows and editorial coverage. She discusses the democratization of fashion in recent years, specifically with social media and influencer culture breaking down traditional barriers in the industry.Morgan and Nikki explore what it means to be a woman today, emphasizing that women shouldn't feel the need to compartmentalize their interests. They also discuss how both Marie Claire and Blavity have decided to cover political issues and the complications that online bots have brought to content.They examine how influencer culture has valued trends over personal style, expose "dupe culture" for what it is, and shed light on the rampant consumerism of the wedding industry. Finally, Nikki and Morgan highlight the necessity of fact-based journalism in democracy, and why individuals should support it.Tune into this episode for an inside look at the business of fashion from an industry leader herself, Nikki Ogunnaike. Don't forget to subscribe to The Journey so you never miss an episode!More from Nikki:https://www.instagram.com/nikkiogunhttps://www.nikkiogunnaike.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-ogunnaike-090b8b8/Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryInside AfroTech’s Success: Building Conferences that Last
Oct 1, 202400:30:08Summary readyThis week on The Journey, Morgan DeBaun dives into the world of event and conference businesses, exposing how Blavity has created consistent success with the annual AfroTech conference.This episode is brought to you by:Go to Quince.com/journey for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyFor a limited time, kids eat FREE! Visit HelloFresh.com/journeykids to unlock this offer.Try Found for free at Found.com/JOURNEYIn this episode:00:00 Introduction to the Journey Podcast00:27 Blavity's First Conference: EmpowerHer03:29 The Birth of AfroTech05:32 Curating Successful Conferences08:21 Building a Conference Budget13:54 Choosing the Right Themes16:17 Future Trends and Vision21:08 Successful Event Examples24:16 Final Tips and ConclusionIn the episode, Morgan shares what it takes to develop impactful event and conference business, and how they can go wrong. She opens up about the inherent risks in running conferences and the lessons learned from Blavity’s first in-person event, EmpowerHer.Morgan emphasizes the importance of curating speakers, staying ahead of trends, and partnering with clients to develop highly valuable events. She shares examples of how AfroTech and other conferences have stayed relevant and innovative, while other event businesses fail to keep up with trends.If you’re interested in finding your own success in the events and conference space, this episode is a must-listen. Want to learn more from Morgan?Sign up for WorkSmart Pro through Patreon where Morgan will be discussing events and conference businesses this month!Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.com
SummarySave Our Oceans: Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson on Climate Solutions & Environmental Justice
Sep 24, 202400:44:14Summary readyIn this episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a renowned marine biologist, policy expert, and author to explore the crucial steps individuals can take to create a more sustainable climate future.This episode is brought to you by:Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyHead to https://www.squarespace.com/JOURNEY to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code JOURNEY.For a limited time, kids eat FREE! Visit HelloFresh.com/journeykids to unlock this offer.Try Found for free at Found.com/JOURNEYIn this episode:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Climate Power Partnership and Daily Actions01:10 Fashion and Consumerism03:07 Dr. Johnson's Journey to Marine Biology04:59 Current Work and Climate Crisis06:42 Personal Actions and Impact11:31 Financial Choices and Climate Impact13:56 Dr. Johnson's Book and Vision for the Future17:39 Framework for Climate Action19:10 Personal Climate Action Tips19:56 Leveraging Unique Skills for Impact21:10 Founding an Ocean Policy Think Tank24:22 Building Coalitions for Ocean Justice29:03 Climate Solutions and Policy Changes34:59 Commitments and Actions for Climate37:39 Conclusion and Next StepsIn the episode, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson emphasizes the importance of individual action, encouraging listeners to understand how everyday choices make an impact. The conversation covers practical ways people can combat climate change with actions ranging from recycling aluminum and buying second-hand to choosing climate-friendly banks and voting for climate-conscious candidates.They discuss Dr. Johnson's new book, What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Future, and the inspiration behind this thought-provoking anthology. Dr. Johnson shares her framework for how individuals can determine how they can make a personal difference in the fight against climate change.Dr. Johnson and Morgan talk about the creation of Urban Ocean Lab, a think tank focused on urban ocean policy, and highlight the positive impact it's made. They also touch on the influence of economic incentives in the shift toward greener energy and the importance of the upcoming election for the climate future.Hear Morgan's personal commitments to making a positive impact on the environment, and get inspired by Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson to explore how you too can make a difference!More from Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson:https://substack.com/@ayanaelizahttps://www.ayanaelizabeth.com/https://www.instagram.com/ayanaeliza/Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.
SummaryMorgan DeBaun Unfiltered: Ask Me Anything (Life, Love & Business Success)
Sep 17, 202400:29:41Summary readyIt's time for another Ask Me Anything with Morgan DeBaun on The Journey! This week, Morgan is answering questions submitted by YOU, spanning everything from effective hiring to dating and relationship success.This episode is brought to you by:Sign up now for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/journeyHead to https://www.squarespace.com/JOURNEY to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code JOURNEY.00:00 Introduction to AMA Episode00:24 Hiring and Managing Virtual Assistants03:32 Moving in Silence vs. Being Loud09:08 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Life15:51 Navigating Relationships with Success19:37 Joining Advisory Boards and Personal Branding22:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMorgan kicks off the episode by diving into her unconventional approach to hiring virtual assistants, before offering a candid look at how she decides when to move silently and when to make bold, public moves in her business ventures. She also opens up about her journey to build a healthy romantic relationship as a female entrepreneur and how she has maintained meaningful connections with the people she cares about as her success has grown.Finally, Morgan shares what it takes to land a spot on a board - emphasizing the need to excel at what you do, build a personal brand, and cultivate a powerful network that can put your name in the right rooms.Whether you’re looking for career advice or relationship wisdom, this episode has something for your own entrepreneurial journey! Have a question for Morgan? Let her know on Instagram and maybe you'll hear it answered in the next AMA episode!Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcastMake sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdbProduced by MicMoguls.com
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