By Black Business Review

ATLANTA — Randy Hazelton’s business story did not begin with 20 airport restaurants or tens of millions of dollars in revenue. It began with a restaurant venture that ultimately taught him an expensive lesson: enthusiasm for a business is no substitute for understanding its economics. Randy Hazelton learned this valuable lesson early on in his entrepreneurial journey.

Today, Hazelton is CEO and co-founder of H&H Hospitality, an Atlanta-based airport-concessions company associated with more than 20 restaurant and concession locations and brands including Shake Shack and Auntie Anne’s. Reports in 2023 said the company was on track for approximately $50 million in annual revenue.

Randy Hazelton has transformed the airport restaurant industry with his innovative strategies.

But the road to that scale included bankruptcy, a strategic reset and a much more disciplined approach to entrepreneurship.

Randy Hazelton’s journey showcases resilience and strategic thinking.

In the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry, Randy Hazelton’s story stands out.

A Failure That Changed the Business Model

For Randy Hazelton, the experience of failure became the foundation for greater success.

Randy Hazelton decided to pivot and explore new opportunities within the hospitality sector.

In 2006, Hazelton left corporate America and entered the restaurant industry with Café Circa, a restaurant and bar in downtown Atlanta.

The concept attracted customers, but running a busy restaurant and operating a profitable restaurant proved to be two very different things.

Hazelton later acknowledged that he and his partners had not sufficiently mastered the financial and operational mechanics of the restaurant business. The venture eventually encountered serious financial problems and bankruptcy. Café Circa was sold in 2012.

Randy Hazelton recognized the potential in airport concessions early on.

Under Randy Hazelton’s leadership, the company has thrived.

Instead of walking away from hospitality, Hazelton changed his approach.

Randy Hazelton’s strategic relationships have propelled H&H Hospitality forward.

Randy Hazelton emphasizes the importance of leveraging opportunities in business.

That distinction matters.

Entrepreneurs are frequently encouraged to innovate, disrupt and build something completely new. Hazelton’s next chapter demonstrated another path to wealth creation: take a business model that already works and become exceptionally good at operating it.

The Airport Opportunity

H&H Hospitality moved deeper into airport concessions, where enormous passenger traffic creates a captive and constantly renewing customer base.

Rather than relying entirely on restaurant concepts created from scratch, the company built relationships around established brands and airport-concession opportunities.

Its portfolio has included locations connected to brands such as Shake Shack, Auntie Anne’s, Freshens and Famous Famiglia, including operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Hazelton also benefited from the federal Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program, commonly known as ACDBE. The program is intended to increase opportunities for qualifying disadvantaged businesses to participate in airport concession operations.

Much like Randy Hazelton, many entrepreneurs face the challenge of scaling their businesses.

Hazelton has described that program as a springboard that helped his company participate in an industry where the barriers to entry can be substantial.

The lesson extends well beyond restaurants.

There are billions of dollars in business opportunities flowing through airports, government agencies, universities, hospitals and major corporations. The challenge for many small businesses isn’t simply creating a better product. It is learning how to enter those procurement and partnership ecosystems.

Scale Changes Everything

Operating one restaurant is entrepreneurship.

Operating more than 20 locations requires infrastructure.

As H&H expanded, Hazelton had to contend with staffing, franchise costs, airport operating requirements, advertising expenses and the daily complexity of serving thousands of travelers moving through one of America’s busiest transportation environments.

Randy Hazelton’s story embodies the spirit of resilience and reinvention.

Reports in 2023 put employment at roughly 100 people while describing H&H as being on track to generate approximately $50 million in revenue that year.

That transformation illustrates one of the biggest divides in entrepreneurship: the difference between owning a business and building an enterprise.

A founder can personally manage a single operation.

Twenty locations require systems.

The Bigger Black Business Story

Hazelton’s rise deserves attention for another reason.

Much of the public conversation surrounding Black entrepreneurship centers on starting businesses. Far less attention is given to the harder second stage: scaling them.

Black-owned companies capable of moving from $1 million to $10 million, then $10 million to $50 million and beyond, can create significantly different economic outcomes. They employ more people, qualify for larger contracts, attract institutional capital and potentially create wealth that survives beyond the founder.

Hazelton’s journey also challenges the mythology surrounding failure.

His first restaurant experience didn’t prove he wasn’t capable of succeeding in hospitality. It exposed what he didn’t know.

The second time around, he did the homework.

And that may be the most valuable business principle in his story.

Success did not come from pretending the bankruptcy never happened. It came from extracting the lesson, changing the model and returning to the marketplace with better information.

BBR Assessment

Business: H&H Hospitality
Founder/CEO: Randy Hazelton
Industry: Hospitality / Airport Concessions
Headquarters: Atlanta
Reported portfolio: 20+ airport restaurant/concession operations
Reported revenue milestone: Approximately $50 million annual revenue trajectory reported in 2023
BBR Power Move Score: 96/100

Why Black Business Review is watching: H&H Hospitality represents the type of Black-owned enterprise BBR believes deserves greater attention—not simply a startup, but a company demonstrating how procurement access, established brands, partnerships and operational discipline can be converted into meaningful scale.

Hazelton’s story ultimately isn’t about restaurants.

It’s about what happens when an entrepreneur survives failure long enough to understan

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The agreement marks a new chapter for the former NFL players’ media venture—and offers a business lesson in building a brand beyond a traditional broadcasting career.

By Black Business Review

Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder and Fred Taylor are taking “The Pivot” to Netflix, securing a multiyear partnership that expands the distribution of their interview show and creates new opportunities for its production business.

Beginning Sept. 8, new video episodes will stream exclusively on Netflix every Tuesday and Friday, according to reporting citing Boardroom’s announcement. The show’s existing library will also become available on Netflix while remaining on YouTube.

For the three former NFL players, the agreement represents another step in turning their experience, relationships and on-camera chemistry into a lasting media enterprise. For Black entrepreneurs watching the creator economy, it offers a practical example of how a distinctive program can become a business asset with value beyond its original platform.

The arrangement extends beyond distribution of the existing show. Pivot25 Productions, which Clark co-founded with producer Alicia Zubikowski, will produce Netflix-exclusive bonus episodes. Barrett Media reports that Netflix will also receive first-negotiation rights on future Pivot25 content. Financial terms have not been publicly announced.

That distinction matters. A distribution agreement can expand the reach of one program. A relationship involving future productions can create a path toward a broader portfolio—although the announcement does not guarantee that additional projects will be commissioned.

“The Pivot” launched in 2022, bringing Clark, Crowder and Taylor together for candid conversations and guest interviews. Its move to Netflix arrives as the streaming company expands its involvement in video podcasts, including through agreements involving Spotify and Barstool Sports.

The show’s development also reflects the work behind the microphones. In a 2024 interview with Barrett Media, Clark described how Zubikowski approached him about the venture and how his early conversations with Crowder helped establish the partnership. The program subsequently featured guests across sports and entertainment, including Snoop Dogg, Gayle King and Travis Kelce.

For entrepreneurs, that history underscores a familiar principle: recognizable talent may attract attention, but production expertise, consistent execution and strong working relationships help turn attention into a repeatable product.

The Netflix announcement also follows a significant professional transition for Clark, who departed ESPN during its July layoffs after an 11-year tenure.

“I’ve gained a new perspective: passion over platform, and people over perception,” Clark said in a statement reported by Boardroom and cited by USA TODAY.

His next chapter illustrates the strategic value of developing a separate business alongside an established career. An outside venture cannot eliminate professional uncertainty. It can, however, create additional options when an employer’s priorities change.

“The Pivot” has navigated changing commercial relationships before. Its Fanatics sponsorship began in May 2024 and ended later that year. Front Office Sports reported in January 2025 that the separation was mutual, with representatives confirming the show would continue independently.

That history is a useful reminder that a multiyear announcement should be evaluated alongside the business’s ability to adapt. Partnerships can change. The underlying program must remain valuable to its audience.

Black Business Review’s assessment: The Netflix agreement is a meaningful distribution and business-development milestone for Clark, Crowder, Taylor and their production team. Its strongest strategic feature is the opportunity to connect an established show with future production possibilities.

Still, visibility and profitability are different measures. Without disclosed financial terms, production obligations or detailed rights provisions, there is no sound basis to assign the deal a dollar value or declare how much wealth it will create.

The next test is execution: whether existing viewers follow new episodes to Netflix, whether the show attracts additional audiences and whether the production relationship generates further work.

For Black media founders, “The Pivot” offers a clear lesson. Build a recognizable product, invest in the people who make it work and develop an audience relationship strong enough to support the next chapter. A major platform agreement can accelerate a business—but the foundation must already be there.

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BBR Assessment: The Future of Podcasting Is Building a Business Beyond the Microphone

Black Business Review views “The Pivot’s” Netflix agreement as a signal that successful podcasts can develop into valuable media properties. The opportunity reaches beyond advertising: a recognizable show can support distribution agreements, live events, memberships and additional productions.

But the headline should not obscure the economics. Landing a major streaming agreement is an exceptional outcome, not a dependable business plan for every creator. “The Pivot’s” financial terms have not been disclosed, so its profitability cannot be judged from the announcement alone.

The broader lesson is that attention becomes commercially valuable when a business knows who its audience is, why people return and what advertisers or subscribers will pay to reach or receive.

Where the Money Will Come From

BBR sees several important revenue opportunities for podcast businesses:

• Direct sponsorships: Brands can pay to reach a clearly defined audience through host-read advertisements, sponsored segments and packages combining episodes, newsletters and events.
• Paid memberships: Exclusive interviews, bonus episodes and useful member communities can generate recurring revenue—provided the benefits justify another monthly subscription.
• Live experiences: Recordings, conferences and networking events can create ticket and sponsorship income, although production costs require careful management.
• Products and services: A podcast can introduce listeners to books, courses, consulting or other relevant offerings. Credibility depends on keeping editorial judgment separate from sales pressure.
• Licensing and production: Established programs may earn money through distribution agreements or use their track record to develop shows for other organizations.

The strongest model will vary by audience. A sports entertainment show and a specialized business podcast should not expect to make money the same way.

A Smaller Audience Can Still Support a Business

One of podcasting’s biggest misconceptions is that millions of listeners are required to earn meaningful revenue.

A focused show reaching business owners, executives or professionals may attract sponsors that value relevance over mass exposure. However, a valuable audience must be demonstrated through credible audience data, engagement and measurable results.

Consider an illustrative scenario: four sponsors paying $1,000 per month would generate $4,000 in monthly gross revenue, or $48,000 annually. That is a hypothetical sales model—not an industry benchmark or a prediction. Production, staffing, marketing, taxes and other expenses would reduce what the business keeps.

The real question is whether the creator can consistently deliver enough value to win those sponsors and retain them.

Video Expands the Opportunity—and the Work

BBR expects video to remain an important part of podcast growth because one conversation can support a full episode, short clips and other promotional material.

Still, cameras do not create a business model. More formats mean more editing, distribution and quality control. Creators need to measure whether that additional work brings returning viewers, subscribers, qualified leads or revenue.

Artificial intelligence may lower some production costs, but it also makes generic content easier to produce. Distinctive reporting, trusted hosts, strong interviews and genuine expertise become more important in a crowded market.

BBR’s Outlook

The future of podcasting is promising for creators who operate with the discipline of a media company: control costs, understand their rights, build direct audience relationships and develop more than one source of income.

Major platforms can provide reach and commercial opportunities. Creators should also examine exclusivity, ownership, audience access and renewal terms before deciding whether a deal strengthens their long-term position.

For Black media entrepreneurs, the opportunity is to build businesses around perspectives and communities that audiences value. The microphone opens the conversation. Consistent execution, financial discipline and audience trust determine whether that conversation becomes a sustainable enterprise.

By Black Business Review Editorial Staff
August 21, 2026

ATLANTA — Dr. Kenneth Harris is pushing the National Business League into its next era with an ambitious objective: prepare 1 million Black-owned businesses, like those led by Kenneth Harris, to compete in an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, data, and digital infrastructure. Kenneth Harris aims to ensure that these businesses are equipped to thrive in the evolving landscape.

Harris, president and CEO of the National Business League, is leading the organization’s 126th annual conference at the Hilton Atlanta from Aug. 19 through Aug. 22. The conference brings together more than 140 AI speakers, panelists and trainers for business summits, workshops, networking sessions and discussions about capital, procurement, government contracting and enterprise development.

Dr. Kenneth Harris believes that technology can be the key to unlocking opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in this digital age. His vision for the National Business League aligns with the needs of modern businesses.

The theme, “The Book of AI: Booker T. Washington and the Sacred Codes to Economic Sovereignty,” connects the organization’s historic mission with the demands of a rapidly changing business environment.

Under the leadership of Kenneth Harris, the organization continues to advocate for Black businesses to take ownership of their technological futures.

The National Business League was founded by Booker T. Washington in 1900 to promote economic self-reliance, entrepreneurship and Black business ownership. More than a century later, Harris is arguing that economic independence will increasingly depend on whether Black businesses own and control technology, data and digital systems.

“The revolution will not be televised; but it shall be digitized,” Harris declares in the organization’s campaign messaging.

Moving Black businesses from AI awareness to implementation

The conference is designed to move beyond speeches about the promise of artificial intelligence. The National Business League says participants will learn how to build, deploy and operate AI systems within their businesses.

Programming includes an Association AI Summit, Black Business Enterprise AI Summit, Capital AI Summit, Contract and Procurement AI Summit and Government AI Summit. The schedule also features the National State of Black Business Forum, AI workshops, an AI Power Luncheon and a Booker T. Washington Awards Gala. The conference runs Aug. 19–22 at the Hilton Atlanta.

The practical focus matters.

For small and midsize Black-owned businesses, AI can help automate administrative work, improve customer service, analyze business data, develop marketing campaigns and identify contracting opportunities. Those tools may allow smaller firms to increase their capacity without immediately adding a large number of employees.

As Kenneth Harris emphasizes, having the right systems in place will empower Black businesses in a technology-driven economy.

Kenneth Harris recognizes the importance of integrating AI into everyday operations for sustainable growth.

The campaign driven by Kenneth Harris represents a pivotal shift toward tech empowerment in the Black business community.

This initiative, led by Kenneth Harris, aims to reshape how Black businesses operate in a digital-first world.

Partnerships fostered by Kenneth Harris will play a crucial role in achieving these ambitious goals.

But technology alone is not a business strategy. Companies still need sound leadership, reliable financial controls, strong customer relationships and a clear understanding of the markets they serve. AI can increase the speed of a well-run company, but it can also accelerate the mistakes of a poorly managed one.

That is why Harris’ emphasis on systems, ownership and implementation is more important than simply encouraging entrepreneurs to experiment with the latest software.

The 1 million-business challenge

The National Business League’s “Digitize 1 Million Black Businesses by 2028” campaign is one of the most aggressive technology-adoption goals currently being advanced by a national Black business organization.

The campaign positions digitization as part of a broader Black economic freedom movement. Its goal is not merely to help businesses establish websites or social media accounts. The larger vision involves helping companies adopt digital infrastructure, automate operations, improve procurement readiness and build businesses that can compete for customers and contracts at scale.

The size of the goal also creates a test of execution. Reaching 1 million businesses will require more than an annual conference. It will demand partnerships with technology companies, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, government agencies, universities and community-based business organizations.

It will also require measurable standards. The movement must define what qualifies as a digitized business and track whether participating firms experience stronger revenue, increased productivity, improved access to capital or greater success winning contracts.

A million registrations would create an impressive headline. A million stronger, more competitive businesses would create an economic transformation.

Connecting Booker T. Washington’s legacy to the future

Harris’ strategy draws heavily from Washington’s belief that economic power must rest on a foundation of ownership, enterprise and institutional development.

As Kenneth Harris advocates for training and resources, the potential for success becomes more tangible.

The connection is deliberate. The conference began with a historic Tuskegee tour that included Washington’s home, the Tuskegee University Historic Campus District, the George Washington Carver Museum and sites associated with the Tuskegee Airmen.

Kenneth Harris’s vision is clear: to ensure Black entrepreneurs are not left behind in the technological revolution.

Through the efforts of Kenneth Harris, the National Business League aims to bridge the digital divide for the Black business community.

That historical foundation is being paired with conversations about AI agents, automation, digital infrastructure, revenue systems, procurement and capital.

Under Kenneth Harris’s leadership, we see a transformation in how Black-owned businesses perceive and integrate technology.

The message is clear: honoring Black business history cannot mean remaining trapped in old business methods.

The National Business League describes the conference as the beginning of a new era defined by digital transformation, AI and global economic positioning. It is being hosted by the National Alliance for Black Business, a coalition that includes the National Business League, National Black Chamber of Commerce, World Conference of Mayors and other participating organizations.

Why this move matters

Black-owned businesses have historically faced unequal access to capital, contracts, technology and professional networks. The emergence of artificial intelligence could narrow some of those gaps by making sophisticated business capabilities less expensive and more widely available.

It could also widen them.

Businesses that lack training, reliable broadband, cybersecurity protections, quality data or capital for implementation could fall further behind companies that are already integrating AI throughout their operations.

That is the real urgency behind Harris’ campaign. The central question is no longer whether artificial intelligence will affect Black business. It is whether Black entrepreneurs will adopt, shape and own enough of the technology to benefit from the economic shift.

Harris is betting that the National Business League can help lead that transition.

BBR Assessment

Kenneth Harris is making one of the strongest national Black-business leadership moves of 2026. He is connecting a 126-year-old institution to the defining business technology of the current era while setting a goal large enough to demand national attention.

The vision earns high marks. The next measure will be execution: how many companies are reached, what systems they implement and whether digitization produces measurable revenue, contracts, productivity and ownership.

BBR Power Move Score: ★★★★★ 99/100
Editorial Priority: Front Page
Revenue Opportunity: High
Public business contact: 334-313-6762
Official organization: National Business League

Just for Teens, a Black-owned skincare brand created for preteens, teenagers and young adults, is preparing for a major national retail expansion. The Atlanta-based brand expects its products to be available in nearly 10,000 Dollar General stores by September 2026.

The expansion represents significant growth from approximately 4,000 Dollar General locations in September 2025. It also gives Just for Teens access to families in thousands of rural, suburban and underserved communities where specialty beauty stores—and the premium prices often associated with them—may be harder to find.

As a Black-owned skincare brand, Just for Teens is committed to providing accessible skincare solutions tailored for young individuals.

While many emerging skincare companies focus on luxury retailers, celebrity partnerships and expensive influencer campaigns, founder Brian Reynolds selected a retail strategy centered on affordability, accessibility and national reach.

“Success isn’t measured by how exclusive your retail partners are—it’s measured by how many families you can serve,” Reynolds said. “We wanted a young person in a small town to have the same access to quality skincare as someone shopping at a specialty beauty retailer, and parents shouldn’t have to pay premium prices to help their kids feel confident.”

Expanding Access to Youth Skincare

Choosing a Black-owned skincare brand like Just for Teens not only supports diversity in beauty but also prioritizes the needs of its community.

Why Choose a Black-owned Skincare Brand?

This Black-owned skincare brand is revolutionizing the way young consumers view and access skincare.

As a leading Black-owned skincare brand, Just for Teens is setting new standards for youth skincare.

A Celebrated Black-owned Skincare Brand for Teens

The nearly 10,000-store footprint positions Just for Teens to reach consumers in communities that have historically had fewer skincare choices. Dollar General’s extensive national presence allows the brand to place its products near the families it was designed to serve.

This innovative Black-owned skincare brand understands the unique needs of its customers.

As a reputable Black-owned skincare brand, Just for Teens emphasizes quality and affordability in every product.

That accessibility is particularly important as skincare has become a growing part of youth culture. Social media platforms regularly introduce young consumers to elaborate routines, premium products and rapidly changing beauty trends. However, many of those products are priced beyond the budgets of teenagers and working families.

Just for Teens offers a simpler alternative: affordable products that make addressing breakouts approachable and even fun.

Its product line includes strawberry- and blueberry-scented pimple patches in playful fruit-inspired shapes, along with discreet clear patches that can be worn throughout the day. The colorful patches appeal to younger consumers who want skincare products that reflect their personalities, while the clear patches provide a more subtle option.

The brand’s approach recognizes that young consumers are not simply miniature versions of adult beauty customers. They have distinct preferences, budgets and emotional needs—especially when dealing with breakouts during important moments.

Acne can affect confidence before school, picture day, homecoming, graduation, first jobs and interviews. By offering products in familiar neighborhood stores, Just for Teens is working to make skincare support available without requiring an expensive trip to a specialty retailer.

Designed for Teens, Embraced by Parents

Although the company’s name and branding speak directly to young people, Just for Teens has also developed an unexpected following among parents.

Parents initially purchase the products for their children but often begin using the clear pimple patches themselves. That crossover appeal gives the brand an opportunity to serve multiple generations within the same household while maintaining its youth-focused identity.

This Black-owned skincare brand aims to empower youth through effective and fun skincare solutions.

With its roots as a Black-owned skincare brand, Just for Teens prioritizes accessibility and quality for all.

As a proud Black-owned skincare brand, Just for Teens is dedicated to serving its community with integrity.

This leading Black-owned skincare brand showcases the beauty of accessible skincare for young people.

Choosing a Black-owned skincare brand like Just for Teens supports the values of community and care.

“It’s not just young people who love our products—parents tell us they appreciate the value, and many use the clear patches too,” Reynolds said. “We designed something that makes skincare fun for kids while offering something practical enough for the whole family.”

This combination of affordability, practicality and family appeal could prove valuable as consumers become more selective about where they spend their money. Instead of relying solely on prestige branding, Just for Teens is competing through convenience and real-world usefulness.

Its Dollar General partnership also demonstrates how Black-owned consumer brands can pursue scale by looking beyond the traditional beauty-retail playbook. Rather than treating accessibility as secondary to prestige, Reynolds has made it a central part of the company’s growth strategy.

A Major Back-to-School Opportunity

The expansion comes ahead of the fall back-to-school season, when families nationwide will be purchasing clothing, notebooks, backpacks and personal-care essentials.

For Just for Teens, this shopping period represents an opportunity to position pimple patches as another practical item students may want in their backpacks, lockers or bathroom cabinets. The brand is betting that confidence-boosting skincare can become part of the standard back-to-school routine.

“Getting on the shelf is exciting,” Reynolds said, “but the real accomplishment is knowing that a young person—or even a parent—can walk into a local Dollar General almost anywhere in America and find an affordable skincare product that works.”

Growing from approximately 4,000 stores to nearly 10,000 within a year would represent more than a retail achievement. It would provide Just for Teens with greater visibility, stronger national distribution and an opportunity to introduce the brand to millions of potential customers.

It also offers a broader lesson for emerging Black-owned brands: national growth does not always require luxury positioning. Sometimes the strongest path forward is placing a useful, affordable product in the stores people already visit.

As students prepare to return to classrooms this fall, Just for Teens wants families to consider adding one more item to their shopping lists: an accessible skincare product created to help young people face important moments with greater confidence.

Just for Teens products are available at participating Dollar General stores nationwide. Additional information is available at JustForTeens.com.

About Just for Teens

Just for Teens is an Atlanta-based, Black-owned skincare company creating fun, effective and affordable products for preteens, teenagers and young adults. Founded by entrepreneur Brian Reynolds, the company offers fruit-shaped scented and clear pimple patches available in thousands of Dollar General stores, with distribution expected to expand to nearly 10,000 locations during 2026.

Media contact:
Rose Chavez
Just for Teens
admin@justforteens.biz

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The recognition celebrates more than a prominent executive title. Bynes is the first Black Metro President to lead iHeartMedia’s Atlanta market, where he oversees a six-station broadcasting cluster and a growing portfolio of digital media, podcasting and advertising operations.

As Spencer Bynes leads the charge, his impact on the industry is becoming evident.

The recognition of Spencer Bynes underscores the importance of diversity in leadership.

Spencer Bynes is transforming the role of leadership in media.

Under Spencer Bynes’ guidance, the Atlanta market is thriving.

Spencer Bynes plays a crucial role in shaping the media landscape.

The influence of Spencer Bynes extends beyond traditional media.

As Spencer Bynes oversees these stations, his strategy is evident.

Under Spencer Bynes, there is a growing emphasis on digital media.

Spencer Bynes understands the evolving needs of audiences.

His approach under Spencer Bynes focuses on community engagement.

Spencer Bynes demonstrates that accountability leads to success.

Through Spencer Bynes’ initiatives, the culture is shifting.

His vision as Spencer Bynes is paving the way for future leaders.

His selection as one of the Atlanta Business League’s 2026 Men of Influence reflects a combination of historic leadership, measurable financial performance and civic engagement. The organization reserves the distinction for senior executives, entrepreneurs and community leaders whose decisions influence Atlanta’s business and civic landscape.

Bynes stands out because his tenure has produced operating results alongside representation.

Since assuming leadership of the Atlanta market in February 2023, Bynes has helped deliver double-digit, year-over-year growth in both revenue and cash flow for two consecutive years, according to his official Atlanta Business League profile. Those gains reportedly elevated Atlanta into the ranks of iHeartMedia’s top-performing markets. Atlanta Business League

Leading a Complex Media Market

Spencer Bynes: A Trailblazer in Media Leadership

Atlanta is more than a major radio market. It is an influential center for Black culture, music, entrepreneurship, politics and entertainment. Decisions made within the city’s media institutions can shape conversations well beyond Georgia.

Bynes oversees six Atlanta radio stations representing Hip Hop, Country, Pop, Spanish Contemporary and News/Talk formats. His responsibilities also extend to digital advertising solutions and strategic alignment with iHeartMedia’s local podcast production operations.

That combination places him at the center of a rapidly changing industry.

Traditional radio remains an important source of local programming, news, music and community engagement. At the same time, audiences increasingly move between broadcast radio, podcasts, streaming platforms, social media and connected devices. Advertisers are following those audiences and demanding campaigns that can operate across several channels while producing measurable results.

Bynes must therefore manage two priorities simultaneously: protect the reach and community relevance of established stations while building the digital capabilities required for future growth.

His performance suggests that these priorities do not have to compete.

Building a High-Accountability Culture

When Bynes arrived in Atlanta, he inherited a market reportedly confronting leadership instability and operational underperformance. His response centered on strengthening talent, establishing clear expectations and creating a culture of accountability.

He describes that leadership system through an “ATL” framework: Accountability, Tenacity and Love.

It is a simple formula, but it points to a larger management philosophy. Accountability establishes standards. Tenacity keeps the organization moving through difficult market conditions. Love recognizes that sustainable performance depends on people, trust and a shared sense of purpose.

Bynes has repeatedly emphasized that culture is not separate from business strategy. It is the mechanism through which strategy gets executed. That position carries particular weight in media, where creativity, sales, technology, programming and community relationships must work together.

His Atlanta success also follows a record of strong performance in Texas. Before taking over the Atlanta cluster, Bynes served as iHeartMedia’s Area President for five Texas markets. Those markets achieved the division’s highest year-over-year revenue growth and earned the company’s 2022 Community Market of the Year Award.

Experience Beyond Broadcasting

Bynes brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience across broadcast media, healthcare, oil and gas, consumer products, higher education, nonprofit organizations and the fine arts.

His professional background includes serving as talent acquisition manager at Coca-Cola North America and as vice president of business development for the Southern Region at Lee Hecht Harrison. He is also the founder of Accendo International, a leadership-development and executive-coaching company.

That varied experience gives Bynes a broader perspective than that of a conventional broadcasting executive. He understands that media companies are not only content platforms. They are talent organizations, advertising businesses, technology operations and community institutions.

His influence extends beyond iHeartMedia. He serves on the boards of the Metro Atlanta Chamber and Global Affairs Associates and is a member of the Rotary Club of Atlanta. He was also included among Atlanta Magazine’s 500 Most Powerful Leaders in 2026.

Why This Recognition Matters

Bynes’ recognition arrives at a consequential moment for Black leadership in American media.

Black consumers have enormous cultural and economic influence, yet Black executives remain underrepresented in many of the senior positions that determine programming investments, advertising strategy, hiring priorities and corporate partnerships.

Bynes is occupying one of those decision-making seats—and producing measurable business results from it.

His leadership challenges an outdated assumption that diversity and performance belong in separate conversations. In Atlanta, representation, accountability and profitable growth are operating together.

The Men of Influence honor recognizes what Bynes has already accomplished. His larger legacy, however, may be determined by what he builds next: stronger digital operations, more innovative advertising partnerships, deeper community relationships and a pipeline of leaders prepared to follow him.

In one of America’s most important media markets, Spencer Bynes is not merely making history. He is turning that historic opportunity into business performance.

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At a time when streaming platforms are restructuring, production budgets are tightening, and creators are fighting to maintain control of their work, the Tyler Perry independent studio model stands apart. Perry has built more than a successful entertainment company—he has created an ownership platform capable of developing, producing, and distributing stories across film, television, theater, and streaming.

Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership: Understanding His Impact

Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership: A Remarkable Transformation

Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership: A Transformational Story

Understanding Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership

Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership: A Model for Independent Creators

Exploring Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership

From his expansive Atlanta production campus to major content agreements with Netflix and Amazon, Perry continues to operate as one of the entertainment industry’s most influential independent business leaders. His latest slate of projects and partnerships reinforces a career-defining leadership milestone: transforming Tyler Perry Studios into a durable production engine that can compete across platforms without surrendering its founder’s identity or vision.

Understanding Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership: A Transformative Path

Tyler Perry’s Journey From Touring Plays to Studio Ownership

Perry’s rise began far from Hollywood’s traditional centers of power. After enduring early financial setbacks and poorly attended performances, he built an audience through touring stage productions created largely for Black audiences underserved by mainstream entertainment.

The breakthrough did not happen overnight. Perry refined his productions, listened to his audience, and developed a direct relationship with consumers. The Madea character became the foundation of a larger entertainment catalog, but the business lesson behind the character was even more consequential: Perry learned to control his content, understand his customer, and retain ownership whenever possible.

That philosophy carried him into television and film. Instead of waiting indefinitely for Hollywood’s approval, Perry used the commercial strength of his stage productions and audience loyalty to negotiate from a stronger position. His unusually fast production process and ability to create programming efficiently helped establish a business model built around volume, discipline, and creative independence.

Tyler Perry Independent Studio Model Expands Its Reach

The centerpiece of Perry’s business empire is Tyler Perry Studios, located on the historic grounds of the former Fort McPherson military base in Atlanta. Perry acquired approximately 330 acres in 2015 and developed the property into one of the country’s most recognizable production campuses.

The studio includes soundstages, backlots, historic buildings, practical sets, green space, and production facilities capable of supporting Perry’s projects and outside productions. More importantly, it represents something still rare in American entertainment: a major studio owned outright by a Black entrepreneur.

Perry has continued expanding the company’s reach through relationships with leading distributors. Netflix announced a multi-year first-look film agreement with Perry in 2023 and added a multi-year first-look series agreement in 2024. The partnership produced projects including Beauty in Black, The Six Triple Eight, Straw, and Madea’s Destination Wedding.

His work with Amazon MGM Studios has also expanded the studio’s distribution pipeline through a multi-picture agreement that includes titles such as Divorce in the Black, Duplicity, and Finding Joy. By working across competing platforms, Perry is showing that independence does not mean isolation. It means maintaining the leverage to select partners according to the needs of each project.

Why Tyler Perry Studios Matters to Black Business

The importance of Tyler Perry Studios extends beyond entertainment. The business is a case study in converting intellectual property into physical infrastructure, employment, supplier opportunities, and long-term enterprise value.

For Black entrepreneurs, Perry’s journey offers a powerful distinction between visibility and ownership. A successful performance can create income, but ownership of the underlying character, production company, studio facilities, and content library can create generational wealth.

His Atlanta investment also strengthens Georgia’s position as a major production market. The state reports having more than four million square feet of stage space and more than 900 productions over three years. Within that ecosystem, Tyler Perry Studios functions as both a cultural landmark and an economic asset capable of supporting actors, camera operators, set designers, costume professionals, caterers, transportation providers, editors, and numerous small businesses.

The studio’s presence in South Atlanta carries added significance. Perry has spoken about the importance of creating opportunity in the surrounding community, saying the development could give residents “an opportunity to take pride in their community.”

A Leadership Philosophy Built Around Control and Execution

Perry’s leadership style is grounded in relentless execution. He has faced criticism over his writing process, production pace, and creative choices, but his business results demonstrate an uncommon understanding of audience demand and operational control.

His model challenges a Hollywood tradition in which creators—particularly Black creators—often generate cultural value while outside companies retain the most valuable rights. Perry moved in the opposite direction. He accumulated his catalog, financed infrastructure, developed production capacity, and built direct relationships with distributors.

That does not mean every project receives universal acclaim. It means Perry possesses the autonomy to take risks, respond to his audience, and continue producing without allowing any single studio or gatekeeper to determine his future.

What Comes Next for Tyler Perry’s Entertainment Empire

Perry’s next phase will likely be measured by how effectively he expands beyond founder-led production into a broader institution. His studio has the potential to develop new filmmakers, increase outside production activity, deepen international distribution, and create additional consumer experiences around its intellectual property.

Plans previously announced for adjoining land included an entertainment district featuring restaurants, retail, residential units, theaters, a studio museum, and public tours. If fully realized, that development would extend Perry’s influence from content production into tourism, real estate, hospitality, and community development.

Tyler Perry’s greatest business achievement may not be a particular film, television series, or character. It is the construction of a platform where Black stories, Black employment, Black ownership, and global distribution can operate under one roof.

In an industry famous for changing the rules, Perry built his own house—and kept the deed.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE: Terri M. Lee Continues Reshaping Atlanta’s Housing Future Through Equity, Growth, and Community Development

In every major city, there are quiet architects of transformation — leaders whose work does not always dominate headlines but fundamentally shapes how communities live, grow, and survive.

Terri M. Lee is one of those leaders.

As President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta Housing, Lee stands at the center of one of the most important challenges facing America today: affordable housing.

Terri M. Lee: A Visionary Leader in Affordable Housing

In a time when rising rents, economic displacement, and urban redevelopment continue to reshape cities across the country, Lee has become one of Atlanta’s most influential public housing executives, helping lead one of the largest housing authorities in the southeastern United States into a new era of growth, equity, and opportunity.

Her work is not simply about buildings.

It is about people.

Families.

Stability.

And preserving the ability for working-class communities to remain rooted in the cities they helped build.

Since being appointed President and CEO of Atlanta Housing in 2020, Lee has helped steer the agency through one of the most challenging housing environments in modern history. The demand for affordable housing has intensified nationwide, and Atlanta has been no exception.

Yet under her leadership, Atlanta Housing has remained aggressive in its mission to expand access, preserve affordability, and create stronger pathways toward economic mobility.

That kind of leadership does not happen overnight.

Lee brings more than two decades of experience in housing policy, public administration, and urban development — a foundation built through years of navigating the often-complex relationship between government policy, economic development, and community needs.

Before taking the helm at Atlanta Housing, Lee served as the City of Atlanta’s first Chief Housing Officer under former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.

That appointment alone was historic.

It signaled Atlanta’s growing recognition that housing affordability required focused executive leadership, not just policy discussions.

During her tenure with the city, Lee led the development of Atlanta’s Housing Affordability Action Plan, a strategic framework designed to address the city’s housing crisis by increasing supply, preserving affordable units, and promoting inclusive neighborhood growth.

That blueprint became one of the city’s most important modern housing strategies.

And like any strong blueprint, it wasn’t built for headlines.

It was built for longevity.

That same philosophy has followed Lee into Atlanta Housing.

Under her leadership, the agency has prioritized expanding housing choice vouchers, strengthening mixed-income communities, and redeveloping former public housing sites into sustainable residential communities designed for long-term success.

This is where Lee’s work becomes especially significant.

For decades, public housing across America has often been trapped in outdated models — isolated developments, underfunded systems, and fragmented services.

Lee represents a newer generation of housing leadership, one focused on integration over isolation.

Opportunity over dependency.

Community over containment.

Her strategy centers heavily on partnership.

Through collaboration with private developers, nonprofit organizations, local stakeholders, and city leaders, Lee has worked to position Atlanta Housing as both a housing authority and a long-term community builder.

That distinction matters.

Because affordable housing today is no longer just a social issue.

It is an economic issue.

A workforce issue.

A generational wealth issue.

And increasingly, a business issue.

Without affordable housing, cities struggle to retain teachers, healthcare workers, public servants, and entrepreneurs — the very people who keep local economies alive.

Lee understands that.

Her work sits at the intersection of urban policy and economic sustainability, helping Atlanta balance rapid economic growth with equitable community development.

That balance is delicate.

Like walking a tightrope in a storm.

Too much growth without inclusion creates displacement.

Too much stagnation without innovation creates decline.

Lee has spent much of her career trying to hold that line.

And that’s why her leadership continues to matter.

At a time when cities nationwide are searching for solutions to housing shortages and rising affordability gaps, Atlanta has become a city many are watching closely.

Not because it has solved everything.

No city has.

But because leaders like Terri M. Lee are proving that progress is possible when housing policy is approached with both urgency and humanity.

Her influence now extends beyond Atlanta.

Regional housing advocates, urban planners, and policymakers continue studying the frameworks she has helped build — particularly her commitment to equitable development and neighborhood stability.

That legacy is still being written.

Brick by brick.

Policy by policy.

Family by family.

And while public housing may never carry the glamour of corporate boardrooms or billion-dollar acquisitions, the truth is simple:

Housing is infrastructure for human dignity.

And those who protect it are shaping the future of cities.

Terri M. Lee is doing exactly that.

In Atlanta, her work is helping ensure that growth does not erase community, and that progress remains accessible to those who need it most.

That is leadership.

That is impact.

And that is why Terri M. Lee remains one of the most important people on the move in urban America today.

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From internal medicine and cardiology to cosmetic surgery, pediatrics, mental health, women’s health, and preventive care, many Black doctors across the Atlanta region are not only treating patients — they are building institutions, mentoring future physicians, educating communities, and reshaping what culturally competent healthcare looks like in modern America.

A New Era of Representation in Medicine

Healthcare representation matters.

For decades, many Black communities across America have faced disparities in healthcare access, maternal outcomes, preventative care, chronic disease management, and trust in medical systems. Today, Atlanta’s growing network of Black physicians continues helping bridge those gaps through education, accessibility, advocacy, and patient-centered care.

Many patients say they value doctors who understand both the clinical side of medicine and the cultural realities impacting everyday health decisions. Across Atlanta, Black physicians are increasingly becoming trusted voices not just inside exam rooms, but throughout the broader business and community landscape.

Atlanta’s Medical Influence Continues Growing

The city’s strong ecosystem of historically Black colleges and universities, medical programs, healthcare systems, and growing entrepreneurial economy has helped position Atlanta as a major hub for Black healthcare professionals nationwide.

Institutions like Morehouse School of Medicine continue producing physicians focused on health equity, community medicine, and leadership development, helping strengthen the pipeline of Black medical talent entering the industry.

At the same time, Atlanta’s booming population growth has created increasing demand for healthcare providers specializing in:

• preventative medicine
• family medicine
• mental health services
• cardiovascular health
• women’s health
• pediatric care
• sports medicine
• wellness and longevity
• cosmetic and reconstructive procedures

Notable Black Doctors Helping Shape Atlanta’s Healthcare Community

Atlanta’s medical community continues producing influential Black physicians across multiple specialties — from heart health and women’s wellness to cosmetic surgery, pediatrics, and mental health. These doctors are helping redefine modern healthcare while building trusted relationships throughout the city and beyond.

Dr. Contessa Metcalfe — Preventive Medicine

Dr. Contessa Metcalfe is widely recognized for her work in preventive medicine and wellness advocacy. Beyond healthcare, she has become known nationally through media appearances while continuing to promote health education and preventative care awareness.

Dr. Jackie Walters — Women’s Health & Obstetrics

Dr. Jackie Walters has built a strong reputation in women’s healthcare, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. She is known for advocating for women’s wellness, preventative screenings, and maternal health awareness throughout Atlanta’s healthcare community.

Dr. Heavenly Kimes — Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Heavenly Kimes continues building influence within cosmetic dentistry while also becoming a recognizable entrepreneur and media personality. Her work focuses on cosmetic dental procedures, oral health, and smile restoration.

Dr. Rashad Richey — Public Policy, Education & Community Advocacy

Dr. Rashad Richey is recognized for leadership in education, public policy, and community advocacy. His work continues influencing conversations around social equity, education access, leadership development, and civic engagement throughout Atlanta and beyond.

Dr. Kari Williams — Trichologist & Hair Health Specialist

Dr. Kari Williams is known nationally for her expertise in scalp health, hair restoration, and wellness education. Her work continues helping expand awareness around holistic beauty and medical hair treatment solutions.

Dr. Damon Tweedy — Internal Medicine & Mental Health Advocacy

Dr. Damon Tweedy has gained national recognition for combining medicine, mental health advocacy, and healthcare equity discussions. His writing and public speaking continue addressing racial disparities within healthcare systems across America.

Physicians Building Brands Beyond Medicine

Many of Atlanta’s top Black doctors are also becoming influential entrepreneurs, media personalities, authors, educators, and healthcare innovators.

Social media, podcasting, public speaking, wellness platforms, and digital healthcare services have allowed physicians to expand their impact far beyond traditional office visits. Some doctors are building multi-location practices, launching wellness brands, creating educational content, and investing in community-based healthcare initiatives designed to improve long-term outcomes.

This evolution reflects a broader shift happening nationally where modern physicians are no longer viewed solely as medical providers — but also as thought leaders, business owners, and influential voices helping shape public conversations around health, lifestyle, and economic empowerment.

Community Trust Remains Central

Despite advances in technology and healthcare systems, trust remains one of the most important parts of medicine.

Across Atlanta, many Black physicians continue earning strong community support through accessibility, transparency, mentorship, and consistent patient advocacy. Whether serving families for decades or helping first-time patients navigate complex health concerns, these physicians continue playing a critical role in improving healthcare outcomes throughout the region.

In many ways, Atlanta’s Black medical community reflects the spirit of the city itself — ambitious, resilient, innovative, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

Atlanta’s Legacy of Black Medical Excellence

From private practices to hospital systems and medical education institutions like Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta continues serving as a major center for Black medical leadership in America.

These physicians represent more than healthcare providers. They represent mentorship, entrepreneurship, community advocacy, and the next generation of Black excellence shaping the future of medicine.

The Future of Black Healthcare Leadership

As conversations around healthcare equity, preventative care, mental wellness, and community investment continue growing nationally, Atlanta’s Black doctors remain positioned at the center of that movement.

Their influence is being felt not only through medicine, but through leadership, business ownership, mentorship, education, and long-term community impact.

And as the next generation of young Black students looks toward careers in healthcare, Atlanta continues proving that representation, excellence, and leadership inside medicine are not exceptions — they are becoming part of the city’s growing legacy.

Known for her dominance on the court and growing presence across fashion, media, and business, Reese has transformed herself into more than an athlete — she has become a cultural influencer shaping conversations around sports, empowerment, and visibility for young Black women nationwide.

Her growing platform reflects a new era where athletes are no longer limited to competition alone. Through endorsements, social media engagement, public appearances, and brand partnerships, Reese continues positioning herself as both a business-minded entrepreneur and influential public figure.

As women’s sports continue gaining global attention and increased commercial investment, Reese has emerged as one of the faces helping drive that momentum forward. Her ability to connect with audiences both inside and outside of sports has helped elevate her profile beyond traditional athletics and into mainstream culture.

Reese’s influence has also become increasingly visible within fashion and entertainment circles, where her style, confidence, and public persona continue attracting major brand attention. From runway appearances and national media coverage to endorsement opportunities and viral social media moments, she has successfully built a platform that blends athletic excellence with modern celebrity influence.

Fans have gravitated toward her fearless personality, confident leadership style, and ability to remain authentic while navigating the pressures of national attention. Whether competing at the highest level or influencing trends off the court, Reese represents a generation embracing individuality, confidence, and ownership of personal success.

Beyond branding and visibility, Reese has also become an example of how modern athletes are learning to leverage their influence early in their careers. Her growing business opportunities reflect a larger shift happening across professional sports, where athletes are increasingly building long-term brands designed to create impact far beyond their playing careers.

Industry observers continue noting how Reese’s influence extends into fashion, entertainment, marketing, and youth culture — areas increasingly connected to the future of professional athletics and athlete branding.

As her career continues evolving, Angel Reese remains one of the most influential young personalities in sports and pop culture, proving that modern influence is built not only through performance, but through presence, voice, and vision.

From technology and healthcare to media, beauty, finance, real estate, logistics, education, and professional services, Black women-owned businesses are growing at one of the fastest rates in the country while helping redefine what modern entrepreneurship looks like.

What was once overlooked is now becoming impossible to ignore.

Black women are not only launching businesses at record levels — they are building brands, leading companies, creating employment opportunities, and driving economic activity within communities that have historically faced barriers to capital, access, and visibility.

According to national entrepreneurship studies and U.S. Census data, Black women-owned businesses have grown by more than 160% over the past decade, making them one of the fastest-growing entrepreneur groups in the nation. Today, Black women own more than 2 million businesses across the United States, generating well over $100 billion in annual revenue and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide.

That growth is happening during a time when many industries are rapidly evolving through technology, automation, artificial intelligence, and changing consumer behavior. Yet Black women entrepreneurs continue adapting, innovating, and finding new ways to compete and scale in both traditional and emerging markets.

Many founders are building businesses not only online, but also inside local communities where ownership and economic investment matter deeply. From storefronts and consulting firms to logistics companies, wellness brands, construction businesses, marketing agencies, and financial firms, Black women are increasingly becoming visible architects of economic activity and community development.

Still, the road has not been easy.

Despite the momentum, Black women entrepreneurs continue facing major obstacles around access to capital, venture funding, banking relationships, supplier opportunities, and corporate partnerships. Studies have consistently shown that Black women founders receive less than 1% of total venture capital funding in America — a statistic many business leaders say highlights the continued imbalance within the investment landscape.

Yet despite those barriers, the growth continues.

That persistence is helping fuel a new era of business leadership rooted in resilience, creativity, adaptability, and long-term vision. In many ways, Black women entrepreneurs have mastered the art of building with limited resources while still producing meaningful economic impact.

Beyond revenue and business growth, Black women-owned businesses are also playing a major role in strengthening local communities. Many founders continue investing directly into mentorship programs, nonprofit initiatives, workforce development, education, and community-based economic empowerment efforts designed to help others rise alongside them.

In many cities, these businesses have become more than companies — they have become engines for cultural influence, economic stability, neighborhood revitalization, and generational opportunity.

The rise of Black women entrepreneurs also reflects a broader shift happening across the business world. Consumers increasingly support authentic brands, community-centered leadership, and companies that understand the importance of both innovation and impact.

Social media, digital platforms, podcasting, AI-powered marketing, and direct-to-consumer business models have also helped level portions of the playing field, giving entrepreneurs greater access to audiences, branding tools, and national visibility without relying solely on traditional gatekeepers.

As the business landscape continues evolving, Black women entrepreneurs are proving they are not simply participating in the economy — they are helping shape its future.

And if the current momentum is any indication, this next generation of Black women business leaders may become one of the most influential economic forces America has seen in decades.