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BOBs in the 'Burbs

BOBs in the 'Burbs

By: Ashley L. James
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About this listen

For those who love a hidden gem and great conversation, BOBs in the 'Burbs is a podcast that features leadership talks to help you find, fund, and amplify Black-owned businesses in suburban areas and beyond. Join your host, Ashley L. James, founder of ALJ Digital, as she sits down with thought leaders you’ll love to support. From agency founders to boutique owners, the visionaries behind these businesses are redefining suburban excellence. Tune in to get inspired, enjoy expert insights and join a community of people who know that buying Black is a power move.2026 Ashley L. James Economics Leadership Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • The Importance of a Strong Digital Presence | Cliff Blade Blade Marketing and Design
    Mar 19 2026

    In this episode of BOBs in the 'Burbs, I'm chatting with Cliff from a digital marketing agency that started back in 2018 helping local businesses in El Paso, Texas. What began with Facebook marketing for carpet cleaners and dry cleaning stores has grown into a full-service operation offering WordPress website design and local SEO. Cliff gets real about the journey, the lessons learned, and why your digital presence matters more than you might think! 🎙️

    To keep the convo going, find Cliff on:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/Cliff-Blade
    https://www.facebook.com/BladeMrktDesign
    https://www.instagram.com/BladeMrktDesign

    Chapters
    0:00 Introduction to Digital Presence
    1:23 Podcast Introduction
    2:06 Cliff's Background and Business Journey
    5:01 Importance of Digital Branding
    7:04 Challenges in Business
    8:16 Social Media and Networking
    13:20 SEO and AI in Business
    16:22 Personal Interests and Relaxation
    18:01 Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
    19:03 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

    Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss our monthly episodes featuring amazing Black-owned businesses!

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    21 mins
  • The Power of Belief in Entrepreneurship | Echell Eady - Eady Consulting Group
    Feb 20 2026

    In this conversation with Echell Eady of Eady Consulting Group, we got real about trusting your gut when you're in the building phase (even when that inner voice is trying to shut you down). We also explored:

    • What substance use recovery support looks like in Middle Tennessee
    • Trusting yourself in the face of doubt
    • Doing your research and being authentic
    • Unexpected challenges that some business owners face

    This one was exactly what my entrepreneurial soul needed to hear! 🎯 Let me know in the comments if you agree.

    Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss our monthly episodes featuring amazing Black-owned businesses!

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    37 mins
  • Centering Black Entrepreneurship | Barron Russell - Boro Office Solutions
    Jan 16 2026

    Welcome back to BOBs in the 'Burbs! 🎙️In this episode, I sit down with Barron Russell from Boro Office Solutions in Murfreesboro, TN, and let me tell you, this conversation is packed with gems. Barron gets real about his entrepreneurial journey, sharing both the victories and challenges.Here's what we're talking about:• How Barron built his business from the ground up• Why social media marketing isn't optional anymore (even if you're not a fan)• The suburban vs. urban business scene (it's different out here!)• Finding mentors and building your network• Barron's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs• Plus, we get to know the person behind the businessWhether you're just starting out or you've been in the game for a while, Barron shares insights that'll make you think differently about building a business.Drop a comment and let me know your biggest takeaway! Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss our monthly episodes featuring amazing Black-owned businesses!To keep the convo going, find Barron on:Facebook: Boro Office SolutionsInstagram: ⁠@Boro_Office_SolutionsWebsite: BoroOfficeSolutions.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Barron Russell and Boro Office Solutions03:34 Barron's Journey of Starting a Business06:17 Services Offered and Community Impact08:47 Challenges of Running a Brick-and-Mortar Business11:13 Team Dynamics and Community Initiatives13:35 Marketing Strategies and Social Media Presence16:03 Advice for Aspiring Black Entrepreneurs18:53 Networking and Finding Mentors21:29 Differences Between Urban and Suburban Business23:24 Personal Interests25:37 Closing Remarks

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    26 mins
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