A Dynamic Partnership: SMSi and Every.Black Unite Marketing and Technology
The relationship between Lafayette G. Jones of SMSi and Jimmy J. Davies of Every.Black exemplifies the power of collaboration in entrepreneurship. Both visionaries have leveraged their expertise to support each other’s missions, resulting in mutual growth and innovation.
Lafayette G. Jones, an accomplished marketer and Founder of SMSi & Urban Call Marketing Publishing, has been instrumental in helping Jimmy Davies refine the marketing strategies for Every.Black. With a focus on building a strong brand presence and reaching a wider audience, Jones has guided Davies in positioning Every.Black as a premier resource for entrepreneurs, particularly in leveraging technology to drive efficiency and profits.
In return, Jimmy Davies, a technology educator with nearly 40 years of experience, has supported Jones in embracing modern technology, including artificial intelligence. Davies has introduced Jones to practical AI tools and strategies that streamline business operations, enhance decision-making, and improve customer engagement. Through Davies’ mentorship, Jones has integrated AI into SMSi, empowering his business with innovative solutions.
This synergy reflects a perfect blend of marketing expertise and technological advancement. Together, Jones and Davies demonstrate how partnerships can accelerate progress and inspire others to embrace change. Their collaboration not only enhances their individual ventures but also uplifts the entrepreneurial community, reinforcing the importance of knowledge sharing and support among business leaders.
Dr. Jimmy J. Davies (left) and Dr. Lafayette G. Jones
Empowering Entrepreneurs Globally: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Jimmy J. Davies
Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, founder of Every.Black, is a seasoned educator and entrepreneur with nearly 40 years of experience in computer software instruction and database development. Driven by a passion for empowering business owners, he established Every.Black to help entrepreneurs utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and technology to enhance efficiency and profitability. Every.Black provides a supportive ecosystem through weekly virtual mastermind meetings, AI and tech classes, podcasts, and international marketing initiatives. Members connect globally, including with entrepreneurs from the Caribbean and Africa, fostering collaboration and growth. Dr. Davies also co-founded the Black AI Consortium, a platform for people of African descent to explore AI innovations. With a client roster that includes Lockheed, NASA, and the U.S. military, Dr. Davies has a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions. He also founded the Association of Macintosh Trainers and the African American Information Network, pioneering platforms for diversity in technology.
In addition to his technical expertise, Dr. Davies was entrusted with preserving the legacy of Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., a renowned entrepreneur and humanitarian. Known for his motto, “When there is change, there is opportunity,” Dr. Davies inspires audiences at conferences on entrepreneurship and AI. His dedication to education and innovation cements his reputation as a visionary leader in technology and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Davies sharing with a prospective member.
Every.Black Members (left to right): Dorian Carter, Timbuktu Kaazim, Nakwan Walker, Dr. Carnela Ranée Hill, Michelle Campbell, Dr. William Porter, Sherry Taylor, Guy Templeton, Diane Phillips, Dr. Jimmy Davies, William Hubbard, DeLisa Lee, Alton Moseley, Brenda Hubbard, Joy Cook, Mechelle Degree McKenney, Santea Griffin, Donald Kreamer, Dr. Quincy Hawley
Every.Black Family Lifetime Members (Below):
Every.Black Family International Members (Below):
• Every.Black Lifetime Members enjoy the Gold Level membership benefits for Life.
• International Members are critical for Every.Black global expansion.
• Platinum Members (our top membership level) receive weekly consultations and technology training.
• Our invaluable Every.Black Volunteers make it all happen each week behind the sceens.
Every.Black Family Volunteer Members (Below):
Every.Black Family Platinum Members:
Kavita Gupta CEO of i3gs Raleigh, NC
Deborah Wright, M. Ed. CEO, Alignment Life Coaching Wake Forest, NC
Chido Chimedza Co-Founder, The BPO Professional Harare, Zimbabwe
Dr. Sandra Miller Jones SMSi-Healthy Living Solutions Winston-Salem, NC
Dextricia (Dexxi) Vaught Founder of The Dexcellent Life™ Austin, TX
Kim Davies Smith Founder, Our Legacies San Antonio, FL
Dr. Euthalia Philigence Tamtambora & Food Security St. Lucia
Dr. Lafayette G. Jones SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc. Winston-Salem, NC
Belinda Madujibeya CEO, BJM Speech Language Therapy Garner, NC
Tiffany Hunter The Healthy Entrepreneur Podcast Raleigh, NC
Marjorie Beazer Communication Consultant / Coach Antigua
Erica Ruffin Marshall CEO, Empress Rose Legacy LLC Atlanta, GA
Michelle Nichole Taylor Author, Artist Durham, NC
Christpher Wilson Farmer & Agriculture Instructor St. Lucia
Dr. Felicia Durden Director, Arizona State University Tempe, AZ
Olivia Robinson Co-Founder, Life Essentials Cary, NC
Wayne Hinds 2020 Insight Consulting & Marketing Ontario, Canada
Meet Many of the Every.Black Family Members:
Deceased Every.Black Family Members (Below):
Smokey Robinson Singer, Songwriter Producer Los Angeles, CA
Sheila Hobgood Dance Instructor Raleigh, NC
Sherry Taylor Exec., Durham Comm. Land Trustees Durham, NC
Adelaide “Addi” Banks ASB Marketing LLC and Historian Durham, NC
John and Rosie Raye Forever Living Kearnersville, NC
Jaqueline Bowens Political Activist Fayetteville, NC
Sheryl Merritt, MBA, CLHMS Founder Broker, New Legacy Realty Raleigh, NC
Horace “Stan”Anderson Motivation Readers Masterminds Jamaica, NY
Eunice Mosely Dudley Co-Founder, Dudley’s Q+ High Point, NC
Robert “Bob” Robinson Financial Fuduciary Cary, NC
Dr, Herbert Harris Author Speaker, Performer, Composer Wilmington, NC
Ella Wilson Author Kearnersville, NC
Dr. Jackie Mayfield Founder of ComproTax Beaumont, TX
Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Co-Founder, Dudley’s Q+ Kearnersville, NC
Cherelle James Co Founder, My Local CFO Durham, NC
Dr. William Porter Author and Podcast Host Garner, NC
Leon Isaac Keneddy Actor, Film Producer, Playwright Los Angeles, CA
Charisma Jewels Clichés, Figures of Speech Podcast Durha, NC
Santea Griffin Founder/CEO, Agrandize Your Life Durham, NC
Timbukutu Kaazim CEO, Kaazim Enterprise Raleigh, NC
Sheyenne Kreamer WeCare Partnerships Network Raleigh, NC
Dr. Dannielle Joy Davis Full Professor, St. Louis University St. Louis, MO
Ryan Ray Lifestyle & Financial Architect Knightdale NC
Michelle Campbell CEO, Time Value Accounting Services Hillsborough, NC
Chief Dr. Lance Jones, Sr. Safe & Secure Worldwide Protection Greensboro, NC
Miki Wright Beauty Super Stars Podcast, Author Duham, NC
Tony Jackson, Sr. The Real Money Coach Charlotte, NC
Nancy Berg Voice Over Artist, Actress, Singer Signal Mountain, TN
Kmiberly Winborne, CFEI Exec.Dir. Seasons Village Inc., Author Raleigh, NC
Dorian Carter, Sr., CCIM CEO, Speaker, Business Broker Charlotte, NC
LaTasha Best-Gaddy CEO, Infinity Bridges Inc Durham, NC
Jean Philippeaux CEO JP Travel and JP AI Services Wendell, NC
Dr. Jackie Bruce Cjaga Sign Language Interpreting Dekalb, TX
Pastor Carnela Renée Hill CR Hill Design Group, LLC Raleigh, NC
Senior Pastor Diane Washington Trinity Deliverance Church Detroit, MI
Dr. Mildred Henry Educator, Author Dallas, TX
Maxine Phllips GAMMS Unlimited LLC/LEVELLESS Knightdale, NC
Theresa Jones Photographer and Mary Kay Rep. Knightdale, NC
Wheatley Exum Educator, Entrepreneur Raleigh, NC
Nevada York Author, Actress Raleigh, NC
The Every.Black Family Membership Directory:
Agriculture
Christopher Wilson, St. Lucia
Apparel
Charles Clark, D.S. Clark, Charlotte NC
Aerial Sanders, Knittings & Things, Raleigh NC
Roberta Holmes, TheMotherland.online, Seattle WA
Authors
Ella Wilson, Kernersville NC
Michelle Nicole Taylor, Durham NC
Mildred Henry, Ph.D., TX
Nevada York, Raleigh NC
San Griffin, Aggrandize Your Life, LLC., Raleigh NC
James Bradford, As I Muse: My Life in Poetry & Prose, Fort Washington MD
Cathy L. Webb, Cathy L. Webb, Winston-Salem NC
Erica Ruffin Marshall, Empress Rose Legacy, Atlanta GA
Carmela Head, First Glance, LLC, Charlotte NC
Garry Atkinson, Fundo Press LLC, Raleigh NC
Nichol Goodman, GET YOUR OWN DAMN FISH, Hilo HI
Greta Oliver, Greta Oliver Consulting LLC, Chapel Hill NC
Kimberly Dixon, Joyful Living with Kimberly Dixon, Raleigh NC
Phyllis G. Williams, Progress Promoter, Fort Bragg NC
William Porter, PhD, Story Telling Time, Garner NC
Maudine Harrington, Ubegin Again Enterprises, Raleigh NC
Beauty Products
Roy Williams, Winston-Salem NC
Arnetta Hicklin, All Things Skin Med Spa .365 Inc., Raleigh NC
Miki Wright, Beauty SuperStars Talk, Raleigh NC
Shannon Green, Conversionz Makeup Studio/Shannon Sharp Studios, Charlotte NC
Joe Dudley, Sr., Dudley’s Q, Kernersville NC
Joy Alston, Kimyon’s International, Charlotte NC
Smokey & Frances Robinson, Skinphonic, Los Angeles CA
Theresa Jones, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Knightdale NC
Career Development
Maxine Pearl Phillips, GAMMS Unlimited LLC/LEVELLESS, Raleigh NC
Civic Activist
Marjorie Rorie, Winston-Salem NC
Patricia Devine Muhammad, Tulsa OK
Clergy
Milton Andrew, Jacksonville FL
Diane Washington, Trinity Deliverance Church, Detroit MI
Commercial Real Estate
Dorian Carter, OnPoint Partners, Charlotte NC
Community Services
Evelyn Wallace,
Shamille Garris, Annointed Hands Ministries, Inc, Morrisville NC
Stephanie D. Thomas, Notary Connection Plus, Inglewood CA
Kim Smith, Our Legacies Foundation, San Antonio FL
LaTosha Gibson, Triangle ADOS, Raleigh NC
Consultants
Wayne Hinds, 2020 Insight Consulting & Marketing, Milton ON Canada
Magaline Harvey, A Consulting Service Professional, Atlanta GA
Alice Walker, A. Walker Management Inc, Washington DC
Abonni Anthony, Achieving Excellence Consulting, Inc., Greensboro NC
Freddi T. Lane, Business Ventures United LLC,
Billie Crutcher, Coach Billie C & Inspirational Strength, Fayetteville NC
Karen Glace, CoachGlace, Pine Hills FL
Charlene Keith, Collaborative HR Consulting, Raleigh NC
Diane Granberry, Community Resources and More, St. Louis MO
Gracie Johnson-Lopez, Diversity & HR Solutions, Raleigh NC
Dwayne Bobbitt, DSB Coaching Solutions LLC, Raleigh NC
Rhotochia Atkins-Jones, Fresh Fire Coaching, New York NY
Kavita Gupta, B.S., DTMx2, i3gs, Research Triangle Park NC
LaTasha Best-Gaddy, Infinity Bridges Inc, RALEIGH NC
Jennell Hicks, Jazzy Jewels Cosmetics, Seattle WA
Jorgie Franks, Jorgie Inc, Brandon FL
Maureen Alice Torr, Joy’s Centre Corp. & Tranont, Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
Phillip Nembhard, NPM Accounting & Advisory LLC, East Rutherford NJ
Kheyla Orival, Orgahomes LLC, Providence County RI
Othello Calbert, Othello Business Solutions, LLC, Elmhurst IL
Cynthia Roberts, QuickBooks Manangement Group, LLC, Clinton NC
Mary Tazewell, Scrap History, Cary NC
Selma Hill-Streeter, Sel4Life LLC, Raleigh NC
Sandra Morno, SSBM Consulting LLC, Miami FL
Lashea Cavers, Synergy Innovative Solutions, LLC, Jacksonville NC
Bill Davis, Team Nimbus of North Carolina, Raleigh NC
Grayson Marshall, The Real GM, Jacksonville FL
Bridget VanHolland-Williams, MBA, CPEC, The VanHolland Group LLC., Katy TX
Terence West, The West Business Group, LLC., Cameron NC
Leonie Wedderburn, Unlimited Potential (UP), New York NY
Valerie Benton Smith PhD-Bill Black Cadillac and Chevrolet, Greensboro, NC NC
Vonzel Sawyer, Vonzel Sawyer Associates LLC, Durham NC
Donald and Sheyenne Kreamer, WeCare Partnerships Network, Crestview FL
Cordelia Gaffar, Workout Around My Day Inc, Charles Town WV
Contractor
Troy White, Durham NC
Frank Sydnor, FSJ BUILDERS, Raleigh NC
Cosmetologist
Ramona Nichols, Locs of Luv LLC, Alexandria VA
Andread L Mayers, Salon 5B Llc, Pike Road AL
Shanise Flott, StylesbyShanise, LLC, Gastonia NC
The Every.Black Family Membership Directory:
Customer Service
Claudette Harris, At Your Service Consulting LLC,
Education
Beverly Leblanc, Dominica
Katie Gailes, Raleigh NC
Kashi Bazemore, Added Education Solutions, LLC, Raleigh NC
Felecia Durden, Phd, Arizona State University, Tempe AZ
Addi Banks, ASB Marketing LLC, Durham NC
Yvette Appiah, Creative Curriculums LLC, Decatur GA
Kenisha Carr, English, Math & More, Oakland CA
Dr. Sonia Chang, Learning Minds Consulting Group, Los Angeles CA
Olivia Robinson, Life Essentials Group, LLC, Cary NC
Tiffini Joplin, Noah’s Ark Consulting and Service Group LLC, Dallas TX
Deborah Bush-Munson, St. Louis Community College-Forest Park, St Louis MO
Ronda Harrison, Texas Southern Univ - Thurgood Marshall, Houston TX
Drs. Linda & Joy Davis, The Community Education Link, St. Louis MO
Dr. DaBeth Manns, TL Consulting International, Washington DC
Keenan Headen, Truth or Err Education Blockchain Protocol, Durham NC
Empowerment Media/Broadcasting
Pamela Kelly, Perennial Preparedness NC, CashFlow 5-10-10-75™, Raleigh NC
Freedome Nsoroma Lee-El, The Library Cafe Ghana, Washington DC
Entertainment
Nicshelle Farrow, Journey To Stardom Productions, Bellflower CA
April Barnes Barnes, Kool Kids, Playa Vista CA
Lorenzo King, LK Productions DJ Entertainment Company, Charlotte NC
Kim Kyle, Ms. Kim’s Spoken Words, Fort Washington MD
Nancy Berg, Nancy Dema Berg ‘Voice your Choice’, Signal Mountain TN
Donald Brumfield, Portfolio Group LLC, Durham NC
April Mial, Rock, Groove and Jam!, Raleigh NC
Patrick Duncan, Scobie Entertainment, LLC, Lithonia GA
Owner Founder, The Abstract Experience, Raleigh NC
Bobby Buck, The Bobby Buck Show, North Hollywood CA
Kim Vaughn, The Glamour Girl of Comedy, Raleigh NC
Ashli Cotton, The Life 14:6, The Colony TX
Entrepreneur
Wheatley Exum, Knightdale NC
Sharon Smith, 4Brothers Transportation LLC, Chesapeake VA
Wendy Kraft, Access My ESP, Raleigh NC
Rosanne Reid, BeeFree Marketing Company, Saint Ann’s Bay St. Ann Parish Jamaica
Jalynn Jones, Black Pretty and Paid LLC, Atlanta GA
Ingrid Jones, Black Women In Business-NC, Durham NC
Sisi Harry, Blessed Endeavors, St. Louis MO
Cynthia Bonner, CBon Media, Raleigh NC
Oscar Starr, Express Direct Professional Services LLC, Houston TX
Yvette E Brown, JFC, Sunrise FL
Keith Webster, Kewebco, Washington DC
Tony Hunt, LH Investments, LLC, Omaha NE
Adasha Turner, Modest Family Solutions, Everett WA
Horace Anderson, Motivation Mastermind Readers Network, Jamaica NY
Tracy Payne, My Folded Heaven, Raleigh NC
Nature Blu, Natures Nail Empire, Jacksonville NC
Bongani Baloyi, Ngcebohemp Group, Pretoria GP South Africa
Fred Foreman, One Blood (Movement of Unity), Zebulon NC
Yvette Devere, Professionally Elegant, Raleigh NC
Robin Williams Sr., Ronaj Movie Productions, Philadelphia PA
Clifton Lavenhouse, SANDICLIF, Raleigh NC
Robert Riddick, Sevenfold processing, Sandy Springs GA
Pierce S, ShadowTalkShow, Raleigh NC
Patricia Mial-Mosley, Single Women With Children, Inc., Raleigh NC
Patricia Mial-Mosley, Single Women With Children, Inc., Raleigh NC
Patrice Williams, Smart Logic Virtual Services Inc., Scarborough ME
Dee Hopkins, Strategy Pays, Raleigh NC
Thomas Richburg, Take Control Financial Services, Lago Vista TX
Jessica Featherson, The Rare Feather Cleaning Service, Raleigh NC
Stephenie Williams, The Williams Group, Durham NC
Maggie Green, Windows of Opportunities Community Dev. Center Inc., Raleigh NC
Dr. Andrea Hunter, Worth It Coaching, Raleigh NC
Event Planning
Ravin Robinson, Allure Events, Charlotte NC
Catrina Reese, Catrina Reese LLC, Charlotte NC
Kimberly Winborne, Kimberly Winborne, LLC, Garner NC
Nicole Humphrey, Nicole Yvette Signature Events, Raleigh NC
Carla Matthew, Partners in Planning, LLC, Raleigh NC
Fashion
Shawnette Braxton, Jalu Collection, Joppatowne MD
Sherry Chapman, Sherries Things, Chicago IL
Federal Government
Kendra Cobbins, Washington DC
Young entrepreneur doing the “Dab”
Real Estate Broker in Raleigh, NC
The Every.Black Family Membership Directory:
Film Maker
Leon Isaac Kennedy, Los Angeles CA
Ric Mathis, The Film Black Friday, LLC., Atlanta GA
Financial Services
Arlene Jobs, United Kingdom
Kanteasa Rowell, Plano TX
Makedah H Moses-Boyce, Raleigh NC
Shannon Brooks, Brooks & Associates LLC, Winston-Salem NC
Dr. Jackie Mayfield, ComproTax, Beaumont TX
Frederic J. Zeno, Sr., ComproTax, Beaumont TX
Kenneth W Williams, Core Financial Services USA, Princeton NJ
Tiana Loftlin, Edward Jones, Las Vegas NV
Christopher McIver II, First Financial Security, Clayton NC
William Hubbard, First Merchants Financial Services, Winston-Salem NC
Deirdre Rushin, Imperial Insurance & Financial Solutions, Durham NC
Ed Dudley, L2P Financial Partners, Morrisville NC
Shrima Jones, MWR, Raleigh NC
Cherelle James, My Local CFO, DURHAM NC
Tiffany Richardson, MyEcon, Raleigh NC
Quintonia Thorpe, Prestige Money Managers LLC, Durham NC
Rasheda Jackson, RJ Financial, LLC, Pembroke Pines FL
Teresa Sessoms, Skypass Capital, Raleigh NC
Tony Jackson, The Real Money Coach, Charlotte NC
Michelle Campbell, Time Value Accounting & Advisory Services, Hillsborough NC
Twelve O Sixx, Twelve O Sixx Capital, LLC, Fort Lee NJ
Rodney Debro, Victorian Finance, Durham NC
Earnestine Branch, WFG, Morgan Hill CA
Donna James, World Financial Group, Norfolk VA
Food Securities
Euthalia Philgence, Ph.D., Karib Nou TV, Micoud St. Lucia
Health & Wellness
Areatha Johnson, Clarksville TN
Bether Chihota, Greenville NC
Cheza Garvin, Raleigh NC
Deborah Wright, Alignment Life Coaching, Wake Forest NC
Anita Abena, Apb Massage and Wellness, Houston TX
Mike James, Bodies in Christ Health and Wellness, Greensboro NC
Mary Flowers, Dr. Mary A. Flowers, Montgomery AL
Carol-Ann C. Barker, Ebony Wholistic Healing, Canada
Jacqueline McKinnon, Fitness 4 A New You., LLC, Upper Marlboro MD
John and Rosie Raye, Forever Living, Kernersville NC
Julia Matthews-McClain, Gifts 2 Uplift, Raleigh NC
Karen Moore, Karen Moore Enterprises, LLC, Philadelphia PA
Okon Umana, Good Samaritan World Children Health Org. Corp., West Haven CT
Katina Smith, Happiness In You, Raleigh NC
Latoshia Baruti, Integrated Solutions, Inc., Leslie MI
Celeste Munford, J. Lexi, LLC and Third Day Hemp, Orange NJ
Jenayalynn Riojas, Jenayalynn Hypnotherapy, Durham NC
Maggie Burgisser, Maggie Burgisser, Millsboro DE
Willie Bottoms, My Kidneys Are My Lifeline, Raleigh NC
Tama Smith, MySaharaTea, Detroit MI
Rosa Robinson, N/A, Union City GA
Regan Hampton, NAVAN, Garner NC
Daphne K Dowell, Oxzgen CBD, Tarpon Springs FL
Mia Clay, Pink Parachute Company LLC, Orlando FL
Dr. Susan Lovelle, Premiere Wellness, Raleigh NC
Ivy Ruffin, Seanjari Preeti Womb Healing, Spartanburg SC
Sandra Miller Jones, SMSi-Healthy Living Solutions, Inc., Winston-Salem NC
Tanya Hill, Tanya’s Wellness Corner LLC, Roxboro NC
Joycesonia Lawson, Teacher Care Now Foundation Inc., Raleigh NC
Stephen Middleton, The Cellular Health Company, Lancaster SC
Nathaniel Wilkins, The Now Group, Inc/ DBA The Ageless Workout, North Miami FL
Tammy Mills, Total Life Changes, Raleigh NC
Lynda Hamilton, Transformation Counseling Services, New York NY
Tonita Morris, USHEALTH Advisors, Raleigh NC
Domita White, WARRIORS 4 EPILEPSY, Raleigh NC
Tiffany Hunter, Wholey Living Health Coaching, Raleigh NC
Inspirational Speaker
Nala Keye, Nala Latrice International, Atlanta GA
The Presidents: (left to right) Chief Dr. Lance Jones, Past President of Greensboro Fuller Dudley Masterminds, Dorian Carter, Past President of Charlotte Fuller Dudley Masterminds and Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, Past President of Durham Raleigh Fuller Dudley Masterminds
The Every.Black Family Membership Directory:
Insurance
Brenda Robinson, Bethlehem Truck LLC, Bethlehem PA
Kat DeCayette, Kat DeCayette Financial Professional/Agent, Talent OR
Selfcare Agent Outlet LLC, San Antonio TX
Sandra Miller Jones, SMSi Healthy Living Solutions, Inc
Interior Design
Carnela Hill, CR Hill Design Group, LLC, Raleigh NC
Erika Parker, Focsi {fox-cee}, Durham NC
Lawn Care
Frankie Dixon Sr., Always Divine Lawn Care LLC, Raleigh NC
Legal Services
Horace Jennings, Burkeville VA
Jillian Hishaw, Hishaw Consulting, Rock Hill SC
Marketing
D’Andre Ford, Biz Talk w/D’Andre, Redford MI
Dre Richmond, DBA Marketing Pros, LLC, Fuquay-Varina NC
Eric Pannell, Ebuynee, Charlotte NC
Lauren Smith, Guides for Marketing Automation, Topsfield MA
Inga Fay, Ingafay Unplugged, LLC, Mobile AL
Glenna Gonzalez, JB Tyler Marketing & Consulting, LLC, Durham NC
DeAndre Price, Marketing Me Media Inc., Wake Forest NC
Lafayette Jones, SMSi-Urban Call Marketing, Inc., Winston-Salem NC
Stéphanie Dauphin, Stephanie Dauphin, Québec QC Canada
Eric Bennett, StopPainS, Raleigh NC
Marketplace
Foday Bangura, Ebuynee, Davidson NC
Media
Shirley Brown, Angel May and Arise To Glow TV, S Te’Resa Thomas, Blissful Art and Design LLC, Chicago IL
Gary Jones, Get With the Program, Raleigh NC
Lillian L. Thompson, Lillianonline, LLC, Raleigh NC
Debra Pounds, Paddlefoot Dolls & Crafts, Union City GA
Sha Miles-Smith, PropertyFanatix, Brooklyn NY
Kenneth Chester, RoadWorthy Drive Productions, Altoona IA
Cedric Nettles, Sage Rage Media/Speak Live Nation, Raleigh NC
Sonia Williams, Sonia S. Williams Video Production, Raleigh NC
Cynthia Brooks Nickerson, Urban Wellness NOW!, Los Angeles CA
Audrey Muhammad, VirtueToday Magazine, Raleigh NC
Notary
Geneva Stewart, GS Notary Professionals, LLC, Waldorf MD
Beverly Neal-Clinton, NM Mobile Notary and Fingerprinting, Los Alamos NM
Personal Development
Dr. Herbert Harris, Wilmington NC
Deborah Wright, Alignment LIfe Coaching, Wake Forest NC
Elizabeth McNeil, BOLD, Raleigh NC
Quincy Hawley, Dream Life Motivation, Hope Mills NC
Delores Bailey, EMPOWERMENT INC, Chapel Hill NC
Marjorie Beazer, HOPE Consulting, Incorporated, Antigua
Kara Lynn Kai Sanders, L.U.V. Enterprises, Raleigh NC
Tana Holland, metaphysician9,
Fred Foreman, One Blood (Movement of Unity), Zebulon NC
Clordene Lloyd, People Focus Solutions, Kingston St. Andrew Parish Jamaica
Mary Thornton, Powerful W.O.N. - Women Overcoming Negativity, Lisa Cox, Ricky’s Hope Incorporated, Burlington NC
Sharon Harrell, Royalty Business Group, Washington DC
Mechelle McKenney, Third Degree Solutions, Raleigh NC
Ryan Ray, Triangle Entrepreneurial Leadership, Garner NC
Dr. Andreaelise Hunter, Worth It, Raleigh NC
Photography
Jeremiah Eernisse, Hartford CT
Stafford Braxton, S Braxton Enterprises, Raleigh NC
Theresa Jones, Your Heart’s Desire Photography
Podcast
Terence Robinson, I Love You Daddy Podcast, Oxon Hill MD
Printing
Jay & Zakiya Leggett, International Minute Press, Durham NC
Andre Starks, Print Your Imagination, Raleigh NC
Geraldine Jones, Raleigh Tees, Raleigh NC
Procurement
Pearlette Cassells, Canada
Sheyla Blackman, Government Contractor Coach, LLC, Zephyrhills FL
Real Estate
Ebony Blount, Raleigh NC
Shari L Capers, Beautiful Homes Now Inc., Marietta GA
Abena Bradford, Bradford Mortgage and Realty, San Diego CA
Carol Small, Carol Small the Realtor, Durham NC
Karen LeBeau-Montalvan, Montalvan Triad Properties by EXP Realty, High Point NC
Sandra Gates, Movil Properties LLC, Maywood IL
Sheryl Merritt, New Legacy Realty, Inc., Raleigh NC
Michael Childs, Nyumba Nzuri, LLC, Baltimore MD
Sherry Taylor, OnPointe Partners, Durham NC
Elliott C. Washington Jr., PatriotOwners.com, Greenville SC
Guy Templeton, Templeton Realty Group (Powered by Costello REI), Raleigh NC
Carlos Parks, Versatile Development Group, Jamestown NC
Geniene Lane, Vertical Ethos Property, Miami FL
Rashida N. Wright, Wright Development Investment Group Llc., FL
Terri Young, Z3 Carolinas Realty, Fort Mill SC
Renewable Energy
Robin Blacknell, Innovate Solutions Group, Concord NC
Sales
Bobby Devone, Rose HIll NC
Patricia Townsend, Bennettsville SC
Durham NC Police Officer visiting an Every.Black vendor booth
The Every.Black Family Membership Directory:
Security
Keenen Terry, Counter Measures Direct Foundation Unlimited LLC, Hampton VA
Lance Jones, Safe & Secure Worldwide Protection Services, Greensboro NC
Sign Language Interpreter
Jackie Bruce, Cjaga Sign Language Interpreting Service, LLC, Dekalb TX
Skilled Trade
Andy Gussie, Criss Cleaning Services, Fuquay Varina NC
Cedric Nelson, East Coast Service Group, Raleigh NC
Nakwan Walker, Executive Plumbing Company, Garner, NC
Michael Kincy, Kincy’s Home Repair & Maintenance Services LLC, Durham NC
Social Media
Bianca Lynch, Raleigh NC
Monique O’Reilly, Enchanting Social Media, Calgary AB Canada
Michelle Weathersby, LENS Consulting Firm, Raleigh NC
Speech Language Pathology
Belinda Madujibeya, BJM Speech Language Therapy & Rehab. Serv. Inc, Garner NC
Spirituality & Religion
Peggy Tatum, The Connection Place, Inc., Raleigh NC
Sports
Michelle Hill, Winning Proof, Frisco TX
Technology
Kamille Richardson, Raleigh NC
Jeffrey Hall, Safety Net Solutions, Inc., Salem NH
Technology Training
DeLisa Lee, DJL Training, Inc., Durham NC
Dr. Jimmy Davies, Every.Black, Durham NC
Travel
Carl Morris, Envision Travel Group (ETG), New York NY
Jacoo Travel LLC, Durham NC
Jean Philippeaux, JP Travel, Wendell NC
Video Services
Tamisha Thomas, TMT Youth Community Foundation, Raleigh NC
Virtual Assistant
Timbuktu-Ali Kaazim, Kaazim Enterprise, Raleigh NC
Jazzmine Mike-Poindexter, MY VAAS Incorporated, Warner Robins GA
Vonntanice Dent, Simply Virtual Pros, Sikeston MO
Chido Chimedza, The BPO Professionals, Harare Harare Province Zimbabwe
Margie J. Lateef, Your Supreme Business Solutions, OH
Voice Over
Patricia Jones, Pat Jones Voice Overs, LLC, Raleigh NC
Dextricia (Dexxi) Vaught, The Dexcellent Life™, Austin TX
Web Design
Markus Cobb, Cobbomatic, Dallas TX
Carol Smith and Pam Kelly, GoodEarthDomains.com, Raleigh NC
Kijuan Amey, Kiwi Enterprises, Durham NC
Unidentified
Chasity Jones, Raleigh NC
Gregg and Darleen Jobson, Raleigh NC
Norman F. Middleton, Raleigh NC
Patricia Hall, Winston-Salem NC
Unique Bethea, Bronx NY
Virginia Rosetta Wood, Huntington WV
Ms. Lyons, Better Work Story LLC., Raleigh NC
Ernest Lavoie, Cleopatra and Nobody Greater. Inc., Troutman NC
Dee, StrategyPays, Raleigh NC
Top row, left to right: Dr. Willie Bailey, Dr. Lafayette G. Jones, Martin Fuller Casey, Rev. George Brooks, J.B. Hill, Lance Jones, Dorian Carter
Bottom row, left to right: Dr. Jackie Mayfield, Antonio Rivera, Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., Michael V. Roberts, Rev. Cardes Brown, Rev. John Mendez,
Dr. George C. Fraser, Dr. John Raye, Dr. Jimmy J. Davies
The Future of AI
The future of AI presents transformative opportunities for entrepreneurs by enabling innovation, automation, and business growth. Key areas include automating routine tasks like data entry and customer support, freeing up time for strategic planning. AI-driven analytics enhance data-based decision-making, providing insights on customer behavior, market trends, and optimal strategies. Personalized customer experiences, powered by AI segmentation and recommendation tools, improve loyalty and retention, boosting revenue. AI is also driving product and service innovation, enabling the creation of tailored offerings for specific needs. Furthermore, AI facilitates efficient scaling through cloud-based platforms, allowing for growth without excessive costs, and enhances financial management with predictive analytics and fraud detection tools. For remote work, AI-powered collaboration tools support virtual teams, increasing productivity across locations. Lastly, entrepreneurs are encouraged to adopt ethical AI practices, prioritizing transparency and fairness to build customer trust. By embracing AI responsibly, entrepreneurs can drive efficiency, create innovative solutions, and build scalable, competitive businesses in the digital age.
The Black AI Consortium and Podcast
The Black AI Consortium is an innovative initiative aimed at connecting individuals of the African diaspora who are interested in artificial intelligence (AI). Founded by Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, Dr. Denise Turley, Dr. Dannielle Joy Davis, and Rev. Dr. Philippe “SHOCK” Matthews, the consortium seeks to cultivate a vibrant community where members can share experiences, knowledge, and resources. The group’s mission focuses on empowering the African diaspora through AI technology, fostering innovation, and addressing social, economic, and educational challenges faced by Black communities globally.
The consortium offers educational events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities to support its members. By curating relevant content and facilitating collaborations, it aims to advance the understanding and application of AI while bridging gaps within the tech industry and beyond. The founders emphasize the importance of a strong, engaged community to promote equitable opportunities and drive positive change.
The Black AI Consortium Podcast is an extension of this initiative, providing a platform for discussions on AI and its impact on Black communities. Hosted by the founders, the podcast explores various aspects of AI technology, delving into its potential and addressing industry concerns. Episodes often focus on the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs and tech professionals, offering solutions, insights, and practical advice to overcome these obstacles. The podcast also highlights success stories and ongoing projects within the consortium, providing listeners with inspiration and tools to leverage AI for economic and social empowerment. By combining education, community-building, and advocacy, the Black AI Consortium and its podcast are shaping the future of AI for the African diaspora, ensuring that technology serves as a means for empowerment and progress.
AI provides opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Visit the Black AI Consotuium Podcast
Technology Skills are Critical for Success
A U.S. Chamber of Commerce study emphasizes the vital role technology plays in small business success. Companies that integrate more digital tools tend to boost sales, increase profits, navigate economic downturns better, and stay ahead of competitors while maintaining a positive outlook on the future.
Recognizing this, Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, founder of Every.Black, LLC, is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs by teaching them how to utilize software applications to enhance business efficiency. Beyond tech training, Every.Black offers global marketing and networking opportunities, providing a well-rounded support system for business owners.
Dr. Davies believes entrepreneurship and technology are essential to closing economic gaps. With over 35 years of expertise in technology education, he has committed his career to equipping entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to thrive in an evolving marketplace.
His training covers a range of tools, including ChatGPT/AI, podcasting, Google Apps, HubSpot, and Canva, all designed to streamline operations and drive business growth. These affordable, accessible courses are available at www.ComputerClasses.Black.
By embracing technology and lifelong learning, small businesses can maximize their potential, compete effectively, and secure a brighter future. Dr. Davies and Every.Black are leading the way in preparing entrepreneurs for success on a digital landscape.
The Benefits of Technology Training
Every.Black offers AI and technology training classes that provide entrepreneurs with significant advantages:
1. Expert Guidance: Led by Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, a computer instructor with nearly 40 years of experience, these classes deliver practical, high-quality education tailored for entrepreneurs. Direct interaction with instructors allows for a customized learning experience tailored to individual needs.
2. Entrepreneur-Focused Content: Designed specifically for business owners, the courses teach actionable skills to boost efficiency and profitability.
3. Flexible Learning: Virtual Zoom classes offer the convenience of learning from anywhere, making it ideal for busy entrepreneurs.
4. Affordable Investment: Reasonably priced with discounts available, these classes are a cost-effective way to acquire valuable skills.
5. Community Support: Participants gain access to the Every.Black network, a collaborative and supportive entrepreneurial
community.
6. Staying Competitive: Learning to leverage AI and technology ensures businesses remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.
Taking AI and technology classes with Every.Black is a strategic step for entrepreneurs to stay ahead. The combination of expert instruction, flexible learning, and access to a supportive network helps transform knowledge into actionable strategies.
By investing in these classes, entrepreneurs can unlock the potential of AI, streamline operations, and increase profits. In today’s fast-changing business landscape, staying educated and adaptable is essential.
Entrepreneurs need Technology Skills
Every.Black Initiatives
Every.Black is actively pursuing several initiatives to support and empower entrepreneurs, particularly in the African American community. These initiatives focus on leveraging technology, AI, and educational opportunities to drive business growth and community development. Here are some of the key current initiatives: AI and Technology Training Programs: Every.Black offers specialized courses that teach entrepreneurs how to integrate AI and technology into their business models. These programs are designed to help business owners automate processes, optimize operations, and scale their businesses efficiently.
Weekly Mastermind Meetings: The Every.Black virtual mastermind meetings are where entrepreneurs come together to learn, share, and grow. Each meeting begins with a discussion on selected readings from books about business. Each session features a guest speaker who provides valuable knowledge, innovative strategies, or entrepreneurial inspiration. Following the discussion, attendees have the opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs from around the world, exchanging ideas and building connections that support their business growth and success.
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project: This is a dedicated initiative to honor and preserve the life and contributions of Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., an iconic entrepreneur, humanitarian, and mentor to countless individuals. Through interviews, audio and video recordings posted on the podcast(www.JoeLDudleySr.com) and live in person presentations, the project showcases his enduring influence and the principles he and his mentor SB Fuller championed. The project is aimed at inspiring and educating the next generation of African American entrepreneurs.
Tulsa Black Wall Street
In 1921, Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Greenwood District— known as Black Wall Street—was a thriving hub of Black wealth and enterprise. On May 31, fueled by racial hatred and false accusations, a white mob attacked. Over 35 blocks burned, homes and businesses destroyed, and hundreds of Black residents killed or displaced. Despite this devastation, survivors and descendants worked to rebuild. The Tulsa Massacre remains a stark reminder of racial injustice and the resilience of Black entrepreneurship and community strength.
Every.Black members meet in Tulsa, Oklahoma to commemorate the burning of the Black Wall Street community in 1921.
Pictured (left to right): Mark Ingrahm, Kim Davies Smith, Belinda Madujibeya, Dawn Gibson, Olivia Robinson, Michelle Nichole Taylor, Jean Philppeaux, Charisma Jewels, Lashea Cavers and Dr. Jimmy J. Davies.
Artificial Intelligence
Dr. Joe. L. Dudley, Sr.
Mastermind Meetings
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project
By Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, Founder of Every.Black
One of largest undertakings of my 35 year professional career as a technology educator began on a seemingly normal Sunday afternoon at the North Carolina home of humanitarian, legendary businessman, hair-care entrepreneur and Horatio Alger award winner Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. He and his wife Eunice Dudley founded the renowned DudleyQ+ brand. I had been to his home a hundred times before but on this particular day, I realized something that had never dawned on me before.
For over 60 years, Dudley accumulated recordings of his business meetings, speeches, conferences, award ceremonies, graduations and recordings of his mentor SB Fuller, founder of the Fuller Products Company. The recordings are on cassette tapes, VHS, Beta and 3/4 inch video, DVDs and even reel to reel film. The items needed to be converted to a digital format to preserve them over time. I asked Dr. Dudley if I could undertake the project and
he agreed. That was the birth of The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project.
With the help of dozens of volunteers, we began cataloging over 3,000 historical recordings, awards and photographs. To date, we have interviewed over 250 men, women and children that had worked with or have been impacted by having an association with Dr. Dudley. Without exception, every person interviewed shared a story about an exceptional man making a difference in their lives and more often than not, that difference was life changing.
On February 8, 2024, Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. passed away. Looking back over the years of working on his legacy project, the impact of it has truly hit me with a somber but grateful heart. Saddened by his loss but grateful for the gains of knowing and learning about him and the so many lives he’s touched along his way.
Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. and Dr. Jimmy J. Davies
I am sure that his impact on the world will continue just like the ripples that are continuously made when a pebble is thrown into a pond. To give you a better perspective, Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. was a mountain cast into an ocean and caused a tsunami. Now, it is up to each of us to pay it forward by continuing to make ripples, waves and even tsunamis of our own. Thank you Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. and may the LORD bless you, smile upon you and give you his peace.
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. project is available to the public on a podcast at www.JoeLDudleySr.com allowing anyone to see the photographs, learn from his fiery speeches and view the inspirational interviews.
Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. (5/9/37 — 2/8/24)
About Dr. Joe L Dudley, Sr.
The Dr. Joe L. Dudley Sr. Legacy Project is currently underway to document the legacy and lifetime impact of legendary businessman, hair-care entrepreneur and humanitarian Joe Louis Dudley, Sr., Co-Founder of the DudleyQ+ brand along with his wife, Dr. Eunice Dudley. He was labeled mentally retarded, and suffered a speech impediment but his mother, never stopped believing in him. In 1957 he invested $10.00 in a Fuller Products sales kit and began selling beauty products. From that humble beginning, he and his wife created a company bringing in over $35 million a year. Over the years he has trained, mentored and impacted the lives of thousands of successful men and women.
All in the Family
Follow the Steps Below to View the Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Project
1. Go to www.JoeLDudleySr.com
2. Select the desired subscription level; Silver($10 per mo.to view the interviews), Gold($25 per mo. to hear his speeches) or Platinum($50 per mo. includes marketing on Social Media)
3. Create your account.
4. enter your billing information.
5. View the project!
Register to be a part of the project at: https://www.Every.Black/Register
From 1967 through 2008, Joe L. Dudley, Sr. & Eunice Dudley led Dudley Products Company to be listed in the top 50 in Black Enterprise Magazine’s Top 100 Black Owned Businesses. During this time, Dudley Cosmetology University in Kernersville, NC and 4 strategically located schools in the Dudley Beauty School System (DBSS) were created. Through dedication, hard work and persistence, they helped take the DudleyQ+ Brand to a respected and world renowned position in the Beauty Industry.
In June 2008, Joe & Eunice restructured the company and turned it over to their daughter, Ursula Dudley Oglesby who began Dudley Beauty Corp, LLC. Their son, Joe Dudley Jr., is President of Dudley Direct, LLC and is an author, speaker and entrepreneurship coach. Daughter Genea Dudley Gidey, is President of Balance Day Spas offering massages, facials, nail care and waxing.
Pictured above from left to right: Joe Dudley, Jr., Ursula Dudley-Oglesby, Mark Oglesby, Jr., Elena Oglesby, Eunice Dudley, Mark Olgesby, Sr., Genea Dudley Gidey and Joe L. Dudley, Sr.
Pictured above from left to right: Joe L. Dudley, Sr., Ursula Dudley-Oglesby and Eunice Dudley
The skillful storytelling and over 30 beautiful illustrations in this delightful new book transport you back in time to the humble beginnings of Dr Joe L Dudley Sr., aka Little Joe. Even as a child his life embodied the catchphrase, Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough People Do!
Ella C. Wilson graduated from NC A&T State Univ. with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Affectionately known as “Ms. Ella”, she was Dr. Dudley’s personal assistant for almost 10 years. She always wanted to write inspirational books after working in group homes. Ms. Ella states,“If young people’s challenges are not addressed, it could prevent them from becoming successful in later life.”
Place Your Order Today at www.ShopEvery.Black
Only $25 (plus shipping and taxes)
Announcing the SB Fuller and Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. Legacy Tour
SB Fuller
June 4, 1905-October 24, 1988
American entrepreneur Founder and President of the Fuller Products Company and mentor to John H. Johnson (Ebony-Jet, George E. Johnson (Johnson Products Company), Joe L. Dudley, Sr. (Dudley Q +) and so many others.
Joe Louis Dudley, Sr. May 9, 1937-February 8, 2024
American entrepreneur, humanitarian, co-founder of Dudley Q plus, founder of Dudley Cosmetology Univ., Pres. George Bush’s 467th Point of Light, author of Walking by Faith, I Am I Can and I Will, Horatio Alger Assoc. member among many others.
Join us on a journey celebrating the inspiring lives of SB Fuller and his mentee, Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., two trailblazing African American entrepreneurs. Explore their rise from humble beginnings to business success, to self-made millionaires and their dedication to mentoring others and creating opportunities. Through engaging stories and vintage clips, discover the powerful legacies they left behind and be inspired to embrace entrepreneurship and community impact. Explore the key moments and milestones that shaped their paths, from S.B. Fuller’s rise as the founder of Fuller Products Company to Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr.’s transformation into a dynamic leader in the beauty industry with Dudley Products Inc.
This tour is being orchestrated by Dr. Jimmy J. Davies, Founder of Every.Black, LLC. The mission of Every.Black is to promote the use of technology in business.
Email: Info@Every.Black Phone: 919-265-8045 or 336-392-8523
Register: www.Every.Black/Tour .Black is the New .Com!
Ella C. Wilson Author
Dr. Herbert Harris, international speaker and author of The Twelve Universal Laws of Success, presents “The Inspiring Stories of SB Fuller and Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr.” at Unity Spiritual of Wilmington, NC.
As commemoration of Black History Month, this event highlights the legacy of two of the giants in “Entrepreneurial Greatness” in the African American community and nationally.
This event consists of restored and preserved audio and video recordings of Dr. Dudley and Mr. Fuller, along with eyewitness accounts of the development of the hair care, cosmetics and publishing industry that provided training, jobs, and careers in the African American communities through America, the Caribbean, South America and Africa.
Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr (5/9/1937–2/8/2024) was born in Aurora, NC, the fifth of 11 children. When he was in the first grade, he was labeled mentally retarded. He persevered in his education and graduated from NC A&T State Univ. Dr. Dudley grew a $10 investment into a $35 million dollars per year manufacturing business and training organization with over 600 employees. He created cosmetology schools in the United States, Brazil, and Africa, training over 30,000 cosmetologists.
SB Fuller (6/4/1905–10/24/1988) starting with $25 he created the Fuller Products Company, eventually earning over $18 million a year. Mr. Fuller was at one time, the richest Black man in America. He built a hair and cosmetics manufacturing company that provided support, training, and inspiration to other giants in the African American community including John H Johnson of John H. Johnson of Johnson Publishing, George Johnson founder of Johnson Products, Dr. T. R. M. Howard, civil rights leader, entrepreneur and surgeon, Mary Kay Ash of Mary Kay, Inc. and Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr. and many others who would go on to great business success.
For more information contact: Dr. Herbert Harris 910-262-2680; herbert@herbertharris.com
Dr. Herbert Harris, a graduate of Columbia University in New York City, is a retired attorney who has written numerous books including: How To Make Money In Music, a highly popular guide book to the music industry, The Twelve Universal Laws of Success a best-selling personal development book with over 800,000 copies in print, and Solving The Race Issue In America. His books have been translated into Chinese, French, Italian, Portugese, Romanian, and Spanish.
Programs of Dr. Herbert Harris
• Success Mentorship Network every Saturday at 8AM(EST) on Zoom at: https://12uls.org
• The Network “success vault” at https://www. patreon.com/successmentorshipnetwork
• Health & Wellness with the LifeVantage Corporation at: https://herbert.lifevantage.com
• The LifeSkill Institute, Inc. publishing, marketing at: https://lifeskillinstitute.org
• Dr. Herbert Harris Transformational Speaking & Training at https://www.herbertharris.com
Herbert is a former director of the Science of Living Institute under Dr. Frederick J. Eikerenkkotter, better known as “Rev. Ike”. He is CEO of the LifeSkill Institute, Inc., an international personal and leadership development corporation.
Dr. Harris has spoken and done numerous seminars and workshops at churches, universities, and corporations throughout the country, including: the Ethical Culture Society, Unity Church, Ohio State University, Columbia University, Lucent Technology, and other business and organizations.
Presently Dr. Herbert Harris maintains a strong internet presence with the Success Mentorship Network and a busy speaking schedule at numerous churches, corporations, and organizations. He is an Elite Trainer with the LifeVantage Corporation, a publicly traded health and wellness company. He is a “Million Dollar Earner” in the network marketing industry. Dr. Harris resides in North Carolina.
Pictured left to right: Dr. Joe L. Dudley, Sr., Dr. Stan “Breakthrough” Harris and Dr. Herbert Harris
Computer and Technology Training for Entrepreneurs
By Penelope Green
February 16, 2024 - Joe Louis Dudley, who expanded a kitchen-table business that he started with his wife at the time into one of the largest Blackowned hair care companies in the Southeast, and who founded schools that trained tens of thousands of cosmetologists, died on Feb. 8 at his home in Kernersville, N.C., a suburb of Winston-Salem, He was 86.
The cause was complications of Parkinson’s disease, his daughter Ursula Dudley Oglesby said.
In the 1960s, Joe and Eunice Dudley were newly married and selling S.B. Fuller beauty products door to door in New York City. Mr. Fuller — no relation to the venerable Fuller Brush Company door-to-door enterprise — was a Chicago-based Black businessman who preached a gospel of advancement through hard work and who made millions in the days when women were eager to buy cosmetics in their homes.
Imbibing his training and message, the Dudleys took their door-to-door Fuller venture to North Carolina. And when the Fuller company had manufacturing problems, they began making their own products: scalp creams, oil shampoos and pomades that they mixed at home and poured into old mayonnaise jars.
Mr. Dudley stirred the formulas in steel drums with a spatula the size of a canoe paddle. Ms. Dudley typed the labels, and their children screwed on the jar tops after the products had cooled and set overnight.
The Dudley kitchen, Ms. Dudley said by phone, was not for cooking meals. But they soon moved their operations out of the kitchen. And after a stint in Chicago, where the Dudleys took over the Fuller business, which was floundering, they returned to North Carolina and built their first plant, in Greensboro, adding Fuller products to their own line.
They went on to open Dudley beauty schools in North Carolina, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.
Joe Louis Dudley, Pioneering Hair Care Entrepreneur, Dies at 86
They also bought a radio station, a hotel and a travel agency, and built an event center. Like his mentor, Mr. Fuller, Mr. Dudley was a sales evangelist and a man of staunch Christian faith. He recruited local college students to work for him as well as people down on their luck — those who had been incarcerated or who had problems with drugs.
Employees were required to open savings accounts, and sales meetings often began with a song. It was Mr. Dudley’s practice to recast pop tunes into Dudley cheers, as he did with the Donna Summer disco hit “Bad Girls”: Now Dudley folk know how to build Know how to build
And they get it done with the strength of will
With the strength of will
We didn’t come to Kernersville to be sitting down
To be sitting down
We came to be the talk of the town
We’re bad Dudley
Bad Dudley
We are big bad Dudley
Beep, Beep
Uh hum
Toot, Toot
Mr. Dudley had set himself a goal of being a millionaire at 40, which he achieved. Over decades, the company’s annual sales reached $40 million.
The comedian Chris Rock once made a pilgrimage to the Dudley factory in Kernersville while making “Good Hair,” a 2009 documentary. He had set out in the film to investigate the mysteries and rituals of Black hair care — and the onerous standards of beauty and race — to answer one of his young daughter’s questions, “Why don’t I have good hair?”
The Dudley Company headquarters was a hub for Black beauty products, and Mr. Rock went there to learn in particular about relaxer, the powerful
hair straightener. He was aghast at the economics: a 7,000 pound vat of relaxer, he was told, was worth $18,000. “If you make enough Black women happy,” Mr. Rock declared in the film, as the camera panned to the Dudley mansion, “you can live like a king.”
“Lafayette
Jones, chairman emeritus of the American Health and Beauty Aids Institute, an association of Black manufacturers, said by phone that Mr. Dudley had been “a leader among Black hair care royalty.”
o
Joe Louis Dudley, named for the boxing legend, was born on May 9, 1937, in coastal Aurora, N.C., the fifth of 11 children. His parents, Clara (Yeates) and Gilmer Dudley, were farmers who raised tobacco and sweet potatoes. Their family of 14, which included Joe’s grandfather Ballam Dudley, who had been born into slavery, lived together in a crowded three-room farmhouse. Joe, who stuttered, was held back in first grade at school after his teachers had labeled him, using the cruel jargon of the times, “mentally retarded.”
“Prove them wrong, Joe,” his mother encouraged him, as he often recalled.
“Prove them wrong.”
He studied business administration at the Agricultural and Technical College of North Carolina (now North Carolina A&T State University), a historically Black college. It took him six years to graduate because he was also working for a time in a poultry factory.
Later, living in Brooklyn with an aunt, he saw a smart-looking young man selling beauty products in the neighborhood one day. Intrigued, he bought a $10 kit from the man’s company, which
turned out to be S.B. Fuller, and began selling himself.
It was challenging at first because Mr. Dudley still stuttered. Sympathetic housewives taught him how to pronounce the product names, and he practiced at night in front of a mirror until he overcame his impediment. He met Eunice Mosley, a fellow Fuller salesperson, and they married in 1961.
Lafayette Jones, chairman emeritus of the American Health and Beauty Aids Institute, an association of Black manufacturers, said by phone that Mr. Dudley had been “a leader among Black hair care royalty.”
In addition to his daughter Ms. Oglesby, Mr. Dudley is survived by his son, Joe Louis Dudley Jr.; another daughter, Genea Dudley Gidey; his siblings, Elsie Little and William, Cornelius, Mardecia, MacArthur and George Dudley; and three grandchildren. He and his wife divorced amicably in 2000 and remained business partners.
Mr. Dudley won the Horatio Alger Award in 1995, an annual honor given in Washington to, as the organization notes, “leaders who have triumphed over adversity.” Quincy Jones, the music producer, and Don Shula, the longtime coach of the Miami Dolphins, were also given the award that year.
In 2007, a section of the Kernersville factory, where the Dudley company manufactured 90 percent of its products, was damaged in a fire, and then the recession hit. With the help of Ms. Oglesby, a Harvard-trained lawyer, the Dudleys restructured and downsized, and Ms. Oglesby became president and chief executive of the newly-formed Dudley Beauty Corp. At his death, Mr. Dudley was still working. Ms. Dudley has no plans to retire.
Penelope Green is a reporter on the Obituaries desk and a feature writer. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/16/ business/joe-louis-dudley-dead. html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=highlightShare
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