On today’s episode of Earn Your Leisure, we sit down with Kwaku Bediako, founder of Chocolate Clothes Global, for a powerful conversation on fashion, culture, and building a global brand with African roots 🌍👕. Kwaku breaks down what inspired him to expand Chocolate Clothes Global, how a six-month run on CNN helped legitimize and scale the brand, and why African influence is shaping global fashion more than ever. He also shares how America played a role in the brand’s evolution, the mentality required to succeed as a fashion designer, and the realities of building a business on the continent. We dive into pivotal moments—including a styling opportunity with Steve Harvey, lessons from a missed chance to style Naomi Campbell, and how Chocolate Clothes Global landed a partnership with the NBA. From building a subscription model to understanding why organic growth takes time, this episode is packed with real gems for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build something meaningful and global. #EarnYourLeisure #ChocolateClothesGlobal #AfricanFashion #FashionBusiness #BlackOwnedBusiness #GlobalBrand #Entrepreneurship #CreativeEconomy #AfricanCreators #FashionIndustry #BusinessFromAfrica #CulturalImpact #BrandBuilding #SubscriptionBusiness #NBApartnership #OrganicGrowth

On today&rsquo;s episode of Earn Your Leisure, we sit down with Kwaku Bediako, founder of Chocolate Clothes Global, for a powerful conversation on fashion, culture, and building a global brand with African roots 🌍👕. Kwaku breaks down what inspired him to expand Chocolate Clothes Global, how a six-month run on CNN helped legitimize and scale the brand, and why African influence is shaping global fashion more than ever. He also shares how America played a role in the brand&rsquo;s evolution, the mentality required to succeed as a fashion designer, and the realities of building a business on the continent. We dive into pivotal moments&mdash;including a styling opportunity with Steve Harvey, lessons from a missed chance to style Naomi Campbell, and how Chocolate Clothes Global landed a partnership with the NBA. From building a subscription model to understanding why organic growth takes time, this episode is packed with real gems for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build something meaningful and global. #EarnYourLeisure #ChocolateClothesGlobal #AfricanFashion #FashionBusiness #BlackOwnedBusiness #GlobalBrand #Entrepreneurship #CreativeEconomy #AfricanCreators #FashionIndustry #BusinessFromAfrica #CulturalImpact #BrandBuilding #SubscriptionBusiness #NBApartnership #OrganicGrowth

Welcome to The Earn Your Leisure Podcast. Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings will be your host. Earn Your Leisure will be giving you behind the scenes financial views into the entertainment and sports industries as well as highlighting back stories of entrepreneurs. We will also be breaking down business models and examining the latest trends in finance. Earn Your Leisure is a college business class mixed with pop culture. We blend the two together for a unique and exciting look into the world of business. Let’s go!! #earnyourleisurepodcast

Earn Your Leisure

How Chocolate Clothes Global Turned African Culture Into a Global Fashion Brand

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/71f00a78-1588-4026-bc04-b3d400225c15/transcript

00:00 Losing It All Teaser
01:02 Meet Pinky Cole
03:01 Reality TV And Public Scrutiny
05:45 Why Bankruptcy Was Necessary
06:56 Winning The Property Case
09:39 Turning Pain Into Purpose
12:10 Darkest Moment And Comeback
14:53 Money Vs Visibility Engine
16:34 Mental Health And Marriage Strain
21:32 Redefining Success As Peace
23:31 Bankruptcy Explained Simply
28:48 Leadership Changes And Hard Calls
31:03 Final Straw And Filing Decision
34:14 Freedom From Pressure
35:19 Faith Through Darkness
37:07 Toxic Social Media Culture
39:37 Joining RHOA
41:59 Reality TV As Leverage
45:11 Cast Dynamics And Friendships
47:14 Operations Over Popularity
51:16 Hiring The Right Operators
53:13 Pandemic Entrepreneurs No Foundation
57:21 Franchising And Rebuilding
58:57 Pinky Piggy Bank Series
01:03:37 Never Quit Final Message

In this episode of Earn Your Leisure, Pinky Cole addresses the headlines head-on—clearing up bankruptcy rumors, explaining how she won her property back after creditors illegally changed the locks, and breaking down what really happens when a $100M business faces setbacks. She shares how losing everything became a lesson not just for her, but for others watching her journey.

The conversation goes deeper into what it actually takes to build and sustain a business. Pinky explains the two engines every entrepreneur needs, why operations are everything, and how many founders fail by skipping steps, lacking structure, or keeping people past their expiration date. It’s a real look at how social media has changed the game—and not always for the better.

We also tap into the emotional side of entrepreneurship—having the right people around you, pushing through dark times, and still showing up for others. From supporting her husband while navigating her own challenges to staying focused on building a billion-dollar company, this is a raw and honest conversation about resilience, growth, and doing whatever it takes to win.

#EarnYourLeisure #PinkyCole #Entrepreneurship #Business #WealthBuilding #BlackBusiness #Leadership #Mindset #StartupLifeSubscribe

 and watch more videos here: https://www.youtube.com/@EarnYourLeisure

Join the EYL community for deeper training and a more detailed approach:
https://www.eyluniversity.com

Join the number one stock club in the world:
https://www.ianinvest.com

Invest Fest | August 7-9, 2026
Grab early bird tickets now: https://www.investfest.com

00:00 Losing It All Teaser 01:02 Meet Pinky Cole 03:01 Reality TV And Public Scrutiny 05:45 Why Bankruptcy Was Necessary 06:56 Winning The Property Case 09:39 Turning Pain Into Purpose 12:10 Darkest Moment And Comeback 14:53 Money Vs Visibility Engine 16:34 Mental Health And Marriage Strain 21:32 Redefining Success As Peace 23:31 Bankruptcy Explained Simply 28:48 Leadership Changes And Hard Calls 31:03 Final Straw And Filing Decision 34:14 Freedom From Pressure 35:19 Faith Through Darkness 37:07 Toxic Social Media Culture 39:37 Joining RHOA 41:59 Reality TV As Leverage 45:11 Cast Dynamics And Friendships 47:14 Operations Over Popularity 51:16 Hiring The Right Operators 53:13 Pandemic Entrepreneurs No Foundation 57:21 Franchising And Rebuilding 58:57 Pinky Piggy Bank Series 01:03:37 Never Quit Final Message
In this episode of Earn Your Leisure, Pinky Cole addresses the headlines head-on&mdash;clearing up bankruptcy rumors, explaining how she won her property back after creditors illegally changed the locks, and breaking down what really happens when a $100M business faces setbacks. She shares how losing everything became a lesson not just for her, but for others watching her journey.
The conversation goes deeper into what it actually takes to build and sustain a business. Pinky explains the two engines every entrepreneur needs, why operations are everything, and how many founders fail by skipping steps, lacking structure, or keeping people past their expiration date. It&rsquo;s a real look at how social media has changed the game&mdash;and not always for the better.
We also tap into the emotional side of entrepreneurship&mdash;having the right people around you, pushing through dark times, and still showing up for others. From supporting her husband while navigating her own challenges to staying focused on building a billion-dollar company, this is a raw and honest conversation about resilience, growth, and doing whatever it takes to win.
#EarnYourLeisure #PinkyCole #Entrepreneurship #Business #WealthBuilding #BlackBusiness #Leadership #Mindset #StartupLifeSubscribe
&nbsp;and watch more videos here: https://www.youtube.com/@EarnYourLeisure
Join the EYL community for deeper training and a more detailed approach: https://www.eyluniversity.com
Join the number one stock club in the world: https://www.ianinvest.com
Invest Fest | August 7-9, 2026 Grab early bird tickets now: https://www.investfest.com

Pinky Cole Breaks Down Filing for Bankruptcy, Losing $100M Business — And Blueprint to Build It Back

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/dda02ad3-b3f6-4d8f-89a9-b42000fb0f78/transcript

In this insightful clip of EYL, hosts Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal sit down with successful entrepreneur and mentor Ryan Breslow to discuss the intricacies of fundraising for startups. Ryan shares invaluable lessons and strategies that have helped him navigate the challenging world of venture capital and investment without falling into common pitfalls. 

Ryan dives deep into his personal journey, recounting initially unsuccessful attempts at raising capital and the crucial advice he received from mentors like Michael Carter of Playco. One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of building relationships rather than simply requesting funds outright. Ryan explains why stating you're fundraising can put unnecessary pressure on both the entrepreneur and potential investors. Instead, creating a network of advocates who are genuinely excited about you and your project is more beneficial in the long run. 

Ryan also elaborates on the famed Silicon Valley adage: 'If you want money, ask for advice. If you want advice, ask for money.' This approach ensures that you not only gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals but also organically attract investors who believe in your vision and character. 

Troy and Rashad probe further, asking Ryan about the strategic targeting of potential mentors and investors, and how to avoid getting a 'no.' Ryan emphasizes the contagion effect of rejection in the investment community and advises playing the long game by impressing potential supporters gradually rather than rushing to secure funds. 

Throughout the episode, Ryan reflects on how critical it is to foster genuine connections within a network that can later be leveraged for intros and investments. His advice also covers the importance of not showing desperation to potential investors, as they are adept at detecting it to secure the best deals for themselves. 

For anyone looking to raise funds for their startup, this episode is a goldmine of practical wisdom and strategic advice. Whether you're in the early stages of your entrepreneurial journey or looking to refine your approach to fundraising, Ryan Breslow's experience and insights will equip you with the tools to succeed. 

Don't miss out on this episode packed with actionable advice and strategies for mastering the art of fundraising.

In this insightful clip of EYL, hosts Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal sit down with successful entrepreneur and mentor Ryan Breslow to discuss the intricacies of fundraising for startups. Ryan shares invaluable lessons and strategies that have helped him navigate the challenging world of venture capital and investment without falling into common pitfalls.&nbsp;
Ryan dives deep into his personal journey, recounting initially unsuccessful attempts at raising capital and the crucial advice he received from mentors like Michael Carter of Playco. One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of building relationships rather than simply requesting funds outright. Ryan explains why stating you're fundraising can put unnecessary pressure on both the entrepreneur and potential investors. Instead, creating a network of advocates who are genuinely excited about you and your project is more beneficial in the long run.&nbsp;
Ryan also elaborates on the famed Silicon Valley adage: 'If you want money, ask for advice. If you want advice, ask for money.' This approach ensures that you not only gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals but also organically attract investors who believe in your vision and character.&nbsp;
Troy and Rashad probe further, asking Ryan about the strategic targeting of potential mentors and investors, and how to avoid getting a 'no.' Ryan emphasizes the contagion effect of rejection in the investment community and advises playing the long game by impressing potential supporters gradually rather than rushing to secure funds.&nbsp;
Throughout the episode, Ryan reflects on how critical it is to foster genuine connections within a network that can later be leveraged for intros and investments. His advice also covers the importance of not showing desperation to potential investors, as they are adept at detecting it to secure the best deals for themselves.&nbsp;
For anyone looking to raise funds for their startup, this episode is a goldmine of practical wisdom and strategic advice. Whether you're in the early stages of your entrepreneurial journey or looking to refine your approach to fundraising, Ryan Breslow's experience and insights will equip you with the tools to succeed.&nbsp;
Don't miss out on this episode packed with actionable advice and strategies for mastering the art of fundraising.

Mastering the Art of Fundraising

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/65aa3626-cdcc-4ec4-b30b-b41a01022f61/transcript

In this enlightening clip of the EYL, join hosts Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal as they sit down with experienced trademark attorney Rosezena Pierce. Dive deep into the world of trademarks and get crucial insights on how to protect your brand effectively. *Episode Highlights:*
*Trademark Renewal:* Rosezena Pierce explains the renewal process and dispels common misconceptions. Unlike annual reports, trademark registrations need to be maintained between the 5th and 6th year anniversary, then the 9th and 10th year anniversary, and every ten years after that.
*Scams & Spam:* Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and scams related to trademark renewals. Rosezena details the tactics used by scammers and stresses the importance of having an attorney to navigate these issues.
*Service Marks & Trademarks:* What’s the difference? Rosezena clarifies that a service mark is essentially a trademark but used for services instead of products.
*International Trademarks:* Discover the complexities of securing trademarks internationally. Rosezena emphasizes the importance of hiring local counsel to navigate different countries' laws effectively.
*Costs Involved:* From government filing fees to attorney charges, get a full breakdown of what you can expect to spend on trademarking, both domestically and internationally.
*LegalZoom vs. Hiring an Attorney:* Understand the value of personalized, custom legal advice versus using a service like LegalZoom. Rosezena highlights the importance of building a relationship with an attorney who can guide you through the nuances of trademark law and add value to your business.
*Classes of Trademarks:* What are trademark classes? Rosezena discusses how you can cover multiple business aspects like media, education, and entertainment under a single class.

In this enlightening clip of the EYL, join hosts Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal as they sit down with experienced trademark attorney Rosezena Pierce. Dive deep into the world of trademarks and get crucial insights on how to protect your brand effectively. *Episode Highlights:*
<ul dir="ltr">
<li>*Trademark Renewal:* Rosezena Pierce explains the renewal process and dispels common misconceptions. Unlike annual reports, trademark registrations need to be maintained between the 5th and 6th year anniversary, then the 9th and 10th year anniversary, and every ten years after that.</li>
<li>*Scams &amp; Spam:* Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and scams related to trademark renewals. Rosezena details the tactics used by scammers and stresses the importance of having an attorney to navigate these issues.</li>
<li>*Service Marks &amp; Trademarks:* What&rsquo;s the difference? Rosezena clarifies that a service mark is essentially a trademark but used for services instead of products.</li>
<li>*International Trademarks:* Discover the complexities of securing trademarks internationally. Rosezena emphasizes the importance of hiring local counsel to navigate different countries' laws effectively.</li>
<li>*Costs Involved:* From government filing fees to attorney charges, get a full breakdown of what you can expect to spend on trademarking, both domestically and internationally.</li>
<li>*LegalZoom vs. Hiring an Attorney:* Understand the value of personalized, custom legal advice versus using a service like LegalZoom. Rosezena highlights the importance of building a relationship with an attorney who can guide you through the nuances of trademark law and add value to your business.</li>
<li>*Classes of Trademarks:* What are trademark classes? Rosezena discusses how you can cover multiple business aspects like media, education, and entertainment under a single class.</li>
</ul>

 Trademark Renewal Process: Key Information from Trademark Attorney Rosezena Pierce

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/37612a94-29cb-4cba-a73e-b41a01022f63/transcript

How Chocolate Clothes Global Turned African Culture Into a Global Fashion Brand

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