This episode originally aired in February 2024 and quickly became one of the most popular episodes of The Journey. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting this conversation, this episode will help you make informed decisions in your business!   Ever thought about raising venture capital for your business? In this episode, Morgan DeBaun breaks down everything a founder should know before diving into the venture fundraising process, sharing her invaluable insights from the perspective of both a fundraiser and an investor.   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to Venture Funding 00:10 Should You Raise Money? 00:48 Understanding Angel Investors 02:55 The Importance of Traction 05:23 Navigating the Seed Round 06:44 Legal Considerations and Mistakes 08:29 Painting a Big Vision 10:57 Executing Your Plan 11:48 Hitting Milestones and Fundraising Timelines 12:31 The Importance of Momentum 13:31 Series Seed and Extensions 15:16 Navigating Series A 17:29 Series B and Beyond 19:19 Balancing Operations and Fundraising 20:56 Final Tips and Resources   First up, Morgan dives into a crucial question: Should you even raise venture capital for your business? Spoiler alert: More often than not, the answer is no. But for those who do opt for the fundraising path, Morgan warns that the venture capital journey won't be easy.   Through the episode, Morgan breaks down the phases of venture funding, from the Friends and Family and Angel Round to the critical Seed Round, all the way to the Series A, B, and C Rounds and beyond. She shares the benefits and challenges of each round and highlights what founders should pay attention to as they navigate the process. Morgan shares what she looks for in the entrepreneurs she chooses to support as an angel investor: resilience and grit. It's these qualities that often make the difference between success and failure in the cutthroat world of startups. Not sure if venture funding is the right choice for your business? After you listen to the episode, check out Morgan's workshop [link below] which will help you decide if fundraising is the appropriate next step for your startup. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating and review!   Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/   Make sure you are following Morgan on TikTok to follow along with her beauty and wellness journey! https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

Morgan DeBaun is back with live coaching calls on The Journey! This week, she is joined by Mackenzie and Ben, two high achievers navigating major career decisions who are looking to add more joy and intention to their lives.   In this episode: 00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast 01:15 Introducing Mackenzie: A High Achiever's Dilemma 01:40 Balancing Ambitions and Personal Goals 03:14 The Importance of Prioritizing Wellness 05:00 Finding Joy in the Midst of Chaos 07:39 Delegation and Time Management Strategies 11:49 Exploring Passions and Tiny Joys 17:24 Navigating Relationships and Future Plans 25:33 Considering Private Practice and Career Goals 30:15 Exploring Flexible Goals and Partnerships 30:44 Commitments and Wellness Focus 31:27 Introduction to Ben's Journey 31:56 Navigating Corporate and Entrepreneurial Paths 34:05 Revenue and Scaling Challenges 36:29 Balancing Purpose and Profit 44:25 The Importance of Joy and Leisure 52:24 Seeking Guidance and Mentorship 56:51 Final Thoughts and Moving Forward   In the episode, Morgan first speaks with Mackenzie, a dual-degree medical and business student balancing her studies, content creation, and personal life. After facing a setback in her journey, Mackenzie is reevaluating her priorities and struggling to let go of the pressure to always achieve. Morgan helps her redefine success, focus on what truly matters in this season, and embrace tiny joys along the way.   Next, Morgan is joined by Ben, a corporate professional who's recently branched out into the world of entrepreneurship with his media platform, We Rest on Sundays. While deeply passionate about his project, Ben grapples with the pressure to scale and monetize, despite having financial stability. Morgan challenges him to rethink his approach, embrace balance, and find purpose beyond productivity.   Tune in for real-time insights on shifting mindsets, making strategic life pivots, and designing a career that aligns with your values!   Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/   Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

For the first time ever on The Journey, Morgan DeBaun is hosting live coaching calls with entrepreneurs in her community. This week, she is joined by Esther and Leshawnda, two ambitious women each at a career crossroads and seeking Morgan's guidance.   In this episode: 00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast 00:43 Introducing Today's Guests: Leshawnda and Esther 02:10 Esther's Journey: From Mental Health Leader to Seeking Balance 03:37 Challenges of Running a Practice 07:36 Envisioning a Balanced Future 11:07 Exploring New Avenues for Income 13:28 Building a Scalable Business Model 18:07 Breaking the Cycle of Overwork 26:21 Creating a Reward System for Efficiency 32:14 Setting Financial Goals 32:48 Leshawnda: Navigating Career Transitions 34:28 Exploring Entrepreneurial Ventures 36:42 Defining Service Offerings 40:01 Building a Sustainable Business Model 44:48 Marketing and Personal Branding 51:03 Balancing Work and Personal Life 57:52 Final Thoughts and Next Steps   In the episode, Morgan first speaks with Esther, a mental health professional pivoting from private practice in the hopes of more freedom. Morgan helps her refine a scalable business model focused on B2B services and executive coaching.   Next, Morgan is joined by Leshawnda, a corporate executive exploring entrepreneurship with hesitations to leave a stable career behind. Morgan guides her in packaging her expertise into retainer-based consulting services for well-funded businesses.   Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/   Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

This episode originally aired in February 2024 and quickly became one of the most popular episodes of The Journey. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting this conversation, this episode will help you take your business to the next level! Have a business idea (or a few) swirling around in your head that you'd love to see out in the world? Morgan is sharing her roadmap for taking a new business from idea to launch, and how to decide if it's a business worth starting in the first place. Plus, she's giving a detailed behind-the-scenes look at how she took her original idea for Mor Matcha all the way to launch! In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to The Journey Podcast 00:13 Evaluating Your Idea: Should You Take the Leap? 00:51 Morgan's Decision-Making Framework 01:34 The DRIP Method: Define Your Decision 03:02 Reviewing the Data: Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches 05:19 Imagining Outcomes: Best and Worst Case Scenarios 08:07 Making the Final Decision: Pick Your Pathway 10:15 Budgeting and Financial Planning 12:30 Understanding Your Customer: Building Avatars 14:57 Legal and Operational Preparations 17:01 Launching Your Business: Be Loud and Proud 18:59 Post-Launch: Gathering Feedback and Iterating 22:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts To start things off, Morgan introduces her DRIP decision-making framework as a tool for deciding whether or not a business idea should be pursued. She then delves into the practicalities of preparing for launch, from creating a budget to understanding your customer avatar. Morgan also breaks down what legal and operational considerations need to be squared away before launch, and what can wait. Finally, Morgan shares her thoughts on launching, encouraging business owners to be bold in their launches and also remain open to feedback. She stresses the importance of continuous iteration and optimization post-launch - because the business journey doesn't end at launch. Tune in and take notes as Morgan guides you through the journey of taking your business from idea to launch with confidence and clarity. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating and review on Apple! Your support is appreciated! Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

This episode originally aired in January 2024 and quickly became one of the most popular episodes of The Journey. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting this conversation, this episode is sure to help you along your entrepreneurial journey! Morgan DeBaun is spilling the tea on how to start a side hustle with just $2000! In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:48 Starting a Transcription Business 03:38 Venturing into Video Editing 04:56 Voiceover Business Opportunities 07:05 Product Flipping for Profit 08:11 Launching a Virtual Assistant Agency 10:25 Social Media Graphics Packages 12:06 Dropshipping 13:32 Balloon Design Firm 15:07 Inflatable Rental Company 15:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts In the episode, Morgan is sharing the 9 types of businesses she'd consider starting if she were at the beginning, and the steps she'd take to turn a profit and build her empire. From transcription and video editing services to balloon art and inflatable rentals, these may not be the sexiest, most brag-worthy businesses, but there is a lot of opportunity to make money! And when it comes to a side hustle that's meant to increase your flexibility and income, that's what matters. Check out the episode and make sure to let Morgan know what "boring business" you plan to get rich this year! Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

This week, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Paige Turner, a content creator and mother known for her honest conversations about the realities of parenting, the mental load mothers carry, and the importance of equitable partnerships. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:18 Meet Paige Turner 03:05 Paige's Viral Moment 05:17 The Cost of Childcare 11:49 Mental Load and Cognitive Labor 16:55 Navigating Parenting Roles 24:16 Understanding Resentment in Relationships 27:54 Tools and Methods for Fair Parenting 29:27 The Reality of Stay-at-Home Moms 31:32 The Impact of Social Media on Parenting 38:58 Advocating for Family-Friendly Policies 44:25 The Role of Privilege in Parenting and Politics 46:49 Staying Engaged in Political Conversations 47:50 Conclusion and Farewell In the episode, Paige shares her journey from a career in broadcast journalism to becoming a prominent voice on TikTok, where she sparks critical conversations about the challenges modern women face in balancing work and family life. The conversation explores how the mental load affects mothers, why equity in the home is important, and the societal factors at play. Morgan and Paige also examine the “tradwife” trend circulating on social media discussing the potentially problematic implications of romanticizing the social media version of this lifestyle. Throughout the episode, they reflect on the pressures social media places on women to excel in every area of life, often creating unrealistic expectations. Morgan and Paige close out the conversation by discussing the current political climate and the need to engage in conversations surrounding the politics of parenting on social media and in daily life. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of modern parenthood or seeking to understand the broader societal changes needed to support families. Tune in to hear Paige’s insights that serve as a reminder that parenting is a shared responsibility, and change starts both at home and in the policies we advocate for! Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ More from Paige: https://www.tiktok.com/@sheisapaigeturner? https://www.instagram.com/sheisapaigeturner/ https://www.sheisapaigeturner.com/about Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ This week on The Journey, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Dr. Sharon Elefant, founder of The Nonprofit Plug, to explore the complex world of nonprofits. Together, they examine the nuances of choosing between a nonprofit or for-profit model, offering actionable insights for entrepreneurs and change-makers alike. In this episode: 00:00 Welcome to the Journey Podcast 00:30 Introducing Dr. Sharon Elefant and Nonprofit Insights 01:55 The Birth of Blavity and Social Impact Investing 06:24 Navigating Nonprofit Challenges and Compliance 08:28 Dr. Sharon's Journey into Nonprofit Work 15:00 Deciding Between Nonprofit and For-Profit 18:30 Understanding Nonprofit Ownership and Board Dynamics 21:28 Fiscal Sponsorship vs. 501c3 23:57 Family Foundations and Tax Benefits 27:00 Private Foundations vs. Public Charities 29:45 The Importance of Legal Structure 30:53 Nonprofit vs. For-Profit: Choosing the Right Path 32:24 Funding Your Nonprofit 33:50 Donor Cultivation: Building Sustainable Support 39:08 Restricted vs. Unrestricted Funds 41:34 Financial Stability for Nonprofit Founders 43:19 Leveraging Nonprofit Status for Personal and Community Gain 51:21 Connecting with The Nonprofit Plug 52:26 Final Thoughts and Book Updates In the episode, Dr. Sharon Elefant shares her expertise on nonprofits, covering everything from compliance, board dynamics, and funding. The conversation highlights critical considerations like fiscal sponsorship versus 501(c)(3) structures and why nonprofits are not the best option when intellectual property is involved. Morgan stresses the importance of not self-sacrificing for the good of the organization, and they discuss how members of nonprofits can be paid. If you're considering how you can have the greatest impact with your organization, this episode offers the guidance you need to make informed decisions on whether a nonprofit is the right fit for you! Have more questions? Don't forget to leave a comment! More from Dr. Sharon Elefant: https://thenonprofitplug.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drsharonelefant/ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

Happy New Year! This week, Morgan DeBaun reflects on 2024, sharing both personal and professional milestones and exploring what's to come in 2025. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Yearly Reflection 01:00 Personal Milestones and Achievements 03:14 Health and Fitness Goals 04:19 Travel and Speaking Engagements 05:49 Book Launch and Future Plans 07:43 Investing in Black Art and Angel Investing 14:19 Afrotech and Blavity Fest 21:01 Business Growth and Future Vision 25:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts In the episode, Morgan reflects on her personal accomplishments from 2024, including navigating motherhood, maintaining friendships, and mastering Pilates. She also discusses her professional achievements with AfroTech's astounding growth and the work that's gone into her upcoming book launch. Morgan then discusses her vision for 2025, including financial goals and plans to engage in angel investing and support black artists. Additionally, she outlines what she envisions for the future of Blavity Fest and AfroTech. It's time to reflect and reset for the new year, so tune in to hear Morgan's personal and professional journey through 2024 and feel inspired for what is to come in 2025! Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

In this special episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun is sharing lessons straight from her program, WorkSmart, to help you hire strategically at every stage of your business. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Book Update 00:42 Understanding CEO vs. Operating Tasks 02:14 Practical Examples of Task Delegation 03:56 Creating Your Task Lists 08:40 Building an Organizational Chart 15:18 Hiring for Success Whether you’re making your very first hire or planning for growth, this episode is packed with actionable advice to set your team up for success. Morgan explains how to separate CEO tasks from operating tasks and why this distinction is crucial for scaling your business. She also walks through how to create an organizational chart that adapts as your business grows and evolves. Plus, Morgan shares insights on avoiding common hiring mistakes, like choosing flashy titles over finding team members who are truly committed to your vision. From finding the right fit to cultivating a growth-oriented culture, this episode has everything you need to hire smarter! Tune in and get ready to build your dream team! Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/ Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

Ambitious ladies, this one is for you! This week, Morgan DeBaun is exposing the intricacies of navigating romantic relationships as an ambitious woman and sharing her own experience balancing a successful career with intentional dating.   Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/   In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:38 Balancing Career and Relationships 04:40 Creating a Life for Yourself 07:37 The Pizza Analogy: Self-Sufficiency in Relationships 09:58 Investing in Yourself 14:49 Embracing Femininity and Letting Go 22:41 Healing and Breaking Patterns 29:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   In the episode, Morgan sheds light on the common struggles faced by high-achieving women who feel behind in their love lives despite thriving in their careers. She discusses her journey of self-investment that led her to the supportive relationship she is in now with her fiancé, Josh.   Morgan shares insightful strategies for operating in the feminine energy and engaging in enriching hobbies outside of work, and touches on the importance of personal growth and the impacts of past trauma on attracting the right partner. She stresses authenticity as a crucial factor in finding success in love.   This episode is a must-listen for any woman looking to create a balanced, joyful, and successful life that is full of love. Pre-order Morgan's book Rewrite Your Rules and take the first step towards redefining success for yourself!   Want to try a new hobby? Take Morgan's Hobby Persona Quiz to find your perfect match: https://www.morgandebaun.com/hobby-persona Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.