Intentionality with Dominique - CVMSDC

Intentionality with Dominique.

Welcome to Intentionality with Dominique, the show that helps business owners become valued and in demand suppliers in the marketplace to scale their businesses. The guests featured on this show are all members of the CVMSDC – The Carolinas Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – also known as The Council.

CVMSDC is an economic growth engine for ethnic minority business owners and serves as an advocacy group to help these businesses and their owners become certified, get developed, experience, connection, and advocacy.

#Intentionality #Inclusivity #Innovation

Collage featuring CVMSDC Corporate Partner and MBE Participants in the Intentionality with Dominique Series

"We must always always remain intentional to gain knowledge, skills, and connections so we can grow and thrive in business."
— Dominique Simpson Milton

All Episodes

Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Holly Byrd Miller of Makeup by Holly Beauty Partners

Holly Byrd Miller, CEO of Makeup by Holly Beauty Partners

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – or CVMSDC – we are joined by Holly Byrd Miller, CEO of Makeup by Holly Beauty Partners.

This conversation highlights the transformative impact of CVMSDC certification on entrepreneurial success. Holly Byrd Miller, shares how certification opened doors to corporate clients and contributed to her business growth. She emphasizes the importance of being coachable and organized, noting that the non-intrusive certification process took only four weeks. Holly also discusses her company’s adaptability, from launching a cosmetics line to scaling services for large events like the Professional Photographers of America conference. Through her book, Lipstick and Legacies, she aims to inspire future entrepreneurs, underscoring CVMSDC certification as a valuable investment in attracting substantial business opportunities.

Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Dr. Perry Miller of Richmond International Airport

Dr. Perry Miller, CEO and President of Capital Region Airport Commission

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique sponsored The CVMSDC, we are joined by Dr. Perry Miller, CEO and President of Capital Region Airport Commission.

This conversation highlights the critical role of supplier diversity and inclusivity in today’s marketplace. Dr. Miller shares insights on the airport’s initiatives to drive economic growth by supporting diverse businesses, highlighting the Power Business Opportunity Forum, an event that links small and minority-owned businesses to opportunities at Richmond International Airport. With resources like pitch competitions and access to the supplier diversity portal, Dr. Miller underscores the airport’s dedication to innovation and community impact through a varied supply chain.

Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Wendy Marquez of Wize Solutions, LLC

Wendy Marquez, CEO of Wize Solutions, LLC

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – or CVMSDC – and Dominion Energy, we are joined by Wendy Marquez, CEO of Wize Solutions, LLC.

Dominique and Wendy explore how Wize Solutions, LLC is revolutionizing rural areas by bringing future-focused jobs and creating a substantial economic impact. This episode promises rich insights into using core competencies for broader economic benefits and the strategic importance of rural sourcing for IT solutions.

Episode 14: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Ken Ampy of Astyra

Ken Ampy, CEO of Astyra

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (also known as CVMSDC) and Capital One, we are joined by Ken Ampy, CEO of Astyra.

Learn about the journey of Astyra, an IT company turned full-service staffing firm, and insights on cultivating long-term client relationships, leveraging core competencies, and the importance of community service in driving business success.

Episode 13: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Shuganti Caradonna of Summit Information Solutions, Inc.

Shuganti Caradonna, President of Summit Information Solutions, Inc.

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – aka The Council – and Capital One, we are joined by Shuganti Caradonna, President of Summit Information Solutions, Inc.

Discover how Summit Information Solutions, Inc. became one of the best places to work and glean insights into transforming your business to scale and thrive.

Episode 12: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Reuben Essandoh of Capital One

Reuben Essandoh, Director of Procurement and Supplier Diversity at Capital One

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – aka The Council – we are joined by Reuben Essandoh, Director of Procurement and Supplier Diversity at Capital One.

Discover how Capital One’s commitment to supplier diversity creates a ripple effect, benefiting communities and contributing to a thriving economy.

Episode 11: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Rick Harris of RL Enterprise Recruiting & Staffing

Rick Harris, President of RL Enterprise Recruiting & Staffing

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council, – also known as CVMSDC or The Council – we are joined by Rick Harris, President of RL Enterprise Recruiting & Staffing.

This conversation provides insights into becoming a successful and intentional supplier to scale businesses, emphasizing preparedness, research, and versatility.

Episode 10: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring My Lan Tran of the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce

My Lan Tran, Executive Director of the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce.

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Councill – also known as CVMSDC or The Council – we are joined by My Lan Tran, Executive Director of the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce.

This conversation highlights the significance of cultural and ethnic diversity in business growth, the challenges minority business owners face, and the triumphs of Asian-American entrepreneurs across various industries.

Episode 9: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Michel Zajur of Virginia Hispanic Chamber

Michel Zajur, Founder & CEO of Virginia Hispanic Chamber

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – also known as The Council – we are joined by Michel Zajur, Founder & CEO of the Virginia Hispanic Chamber.

The episode highlights the shared mission of both organizations to foster business success and invites Hispanic business owners to engage with CVMSDC’s resources and upcoming events.

Episode 8: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Kemah E. P. Washington of BRANDilly Creative Group

Kemah Washington, President & CEO of BRANDilly Creative Group

On this episode of ‘Intentionality with Dominique’ – sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (also known as CVMSDC or The Council) – we are joined by Kemah Washington, President of BRANDilly Creative Group.

Kemah shares his journey of how a once-dormant relationship with CVMSDC blossomed into a significant business opportunity, leading to a substantial increase in BRANDilly’s growth. With a focus on the power of relationships in business, the conversation delves into the importance of a strong team, smart growth strategies, leveraging technology, and the significance of storytelling in branding.

Episode 7: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring K. Angela Webb and Walter Davis of Partners Risk Strategies

K. Angela Webb and Walter Davis, Founding Partners of Partners Risk Strategies

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council – also known as The Council or CVMSDC – we are joined by K. Angela Webb and Walter Davis, Founding Partners of Partners Risk Strategies.

This conversation highlights common challenges businesses face, including lack of contracts, capital, scalability, and overall readiness.

Episode 6: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Vincent Tucker of Quality Moving Services

Vincent Tucker, President of Quality Moving Services

The episode features Vincent Tucker, President of Quality Moving Services, who shares his 34-year journey from starting a moving company to thriving during the pandemic and building a reputable brand. Vincent highlights the importance of strategic planning, budgeting, and continuous development, including valuable programs offered by the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (also known as The Council) that have been instrumental in his business growth.

The conversation also delves into the significance of diversity, adaptability, and the ability to scale a business effectively. Listeners are encouraged to be intentional in acquiring knowledge, skills, and connections to prosper in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Episode 5: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Richard Coughlan of the University of Richmond

Richard Coughlan, Faculty Director of Executive Education at the University of Richmond

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique sponsored CVMSDC, we are joined by Richard Coughlan, Faculty Director of Executive Education at the University of Richmond.

Dominique and Richard discuss the executive program offered at the Robins School of Business tailored for minority business owners, highlighting its 15-year history, curriculum, and success stories.

Episode 4: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Andrea Lyons of All About Presentation

Andrea Lyons, Founder and CEO of All About Presentation

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by Altria and the CVMSDC, we are joined by Andrea Lyons, Founder and CEO of All About Presentation.

This conversation highlights the critical nature of seeking customer feedback, the distinction between scaling and expanding capacity, and the value of self-development and education through associations like CVMSDC.

Episode 3: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Connie Hom of Buckingham Greenery

Connie Hom, CEO and Director of JOY at Buckingham Greenery

On this episode of Intentionality with Dominique, sponsored by Altria and the CVMSDC, we are joined by Connie Hom, CEO and Director of JOY at Buckingham Greenery.

This conversation delves into the importance of loving one’s work, adapting to market trends, making data-driven decisions; and the significance of development and continuous learning through programs like those offered by CVMSDC.

Episode 2: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Ron Carey of Tilt Creative + Production

Ron Carey, CEO of Tilt Creative + Production

This episode features Ron Carey, CEO of Tilt Creative Production. Ron shares his journey of merging an advertising agency with video and post-production to create efficient storytelling for brands. He emphasizes the importance of experience before starting a business, authentic advertising, and the power of diverse teams.

This conversation delves into the significance of pursuing ideas and dreams, particularly in the business realm.

Episode 1: Intentionality with Dominique Featuring Lisa Blake of Altria

Lisa Blake, Senior Manager of Supplier Diversity and Inclusion at Altria

This episode features Lisa Blake, Senior Manager of Supplier Diversity and Inclusion at Altria, discussing the significance of supplier diversity and inclusion in business. Lisa shares how Altria integrates these principles into their fabric, emphasizing that it is a business imperative, not just a philanthropic effort. She explains Altria’s vision and the steps taken to engage diverse suppliers, create awareness, and measure success beyond just numbers.

This episode underscores the economic impact of investing in diverse suppliers and includes a powerful example of a supplier’s success story with Altria.