23/24FACILITATORS
Jennifer Bardot
G.R.I.T.
Jennifer Bardot, MA, MS, is a publisher of the Deconstructing GRIT Collection and Owning Your G.R.I.T.—both international bestselling anthology books available at Target and Walmart. She is featured on the cover of St. Louis Small Business Monthly as 2021’s Top 100 Persons to Know to Help Grow your business and was awarded the President’s Circle by Enterprise Bank & Trust. Founder of the GRIT Community—a free women’s leadership group—Jennifer holds certificates in the Dare to Lead Training by Brené Brown, Women in Leadership Class of ’72, and Leadership St. Louis by Focus St. Louis. She serves at ITEN Lindenwood University, St. Louis University, Washington University, and Fontbonne University. Jennifer is passionate about supporting business owners and female leaders and is a dedicated mother, community connector, and outdoor adrenaline adventurer. Jennifer is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!
KINGSWAY DEVELOPMENT
Kevin Bryant
KINGSWAY DEVELOPMENT PRESIDENT
Kevin Bryant is Founder and CEO of Conversions Global Marketing, LLC and the President of Kingsway Development. He oversees the creative direction of every project in addition to managing and authorizing budgets, business agreements, and competitive bidding for sub-contracting. Professionally, Mr. Bryant also has experience as a manager, director, event planner, and community outreach specialist. He holds a B.A. in advertising from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and has taught graphic design at the University of St. Louis – Florissant Valley. Kevin is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME PANELIST.
Tony Davis
POP POP HURRAY, OWNER
As a proud gourmet popcorn lover, our CEO and founder Tony Davis has traveled all over the country visiting various popcorn shops and trying hundreds of different types of popcorn. Although many were delicious, he noticed most lacked flavor options and offered very little in the form of customer experience, so he decided to change that! He had the idea to combine delicious gourmet popcorn with the topping customization options of an ice cream shop, and from there Pop-Pop Hurray! was born! Tony has worked with youth and entrepreneurs thru out the years teaching valuable skills on how to start and run successful businesses. Tony can be seen on a regular basis promoting his brand with the public on various news outlets in the St. Louis Metropolitan and surrounding areas. Tony is a first time PUT ME IN THE GAME TEACH Initiative Coach!
Doniell Elizabeth PR & Media Agency
Elizabeth Donielle
Donielle Elizabeth CEO/Founder of Elizabeth Donielle PR & Media Agency Est. 12/2020 . Donielle Elizabeth began as a Media Relations Specialist for Entrepreneurs, Small Businesses, and Non-Profits in Community, Entertainment, Beauty, Food and Fashion Markets. After just three years in the industry, she officially opened the Elizabeth Donielle PR & Media Relations Firm, LLC (EDPR & M Agency). Before officially starting the EDPR & M Agency, Donielle had been featured on various blogs and vlogs for her unique contributions in natural hair, plus size modeling, and fashion styling. Her extensive background in modeling, brand ambassadorship, and retail management has cultivated her passion for precision of presentation. She coaches entrepreneurs on how the presentation of themselves, their businesses, and their brands determines audience interest, which establishes consumer trust and trust converts into customers and sales! Her impressive eye for capturing meaningful moments that matter to her clients’ target audiences on social media combined with her strong relationships with local and national media companies, helps connect businesses or brands to customers and investors for maximum scalability and visibility. Clients of the EDPR & M Agency have appeared on Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, CNN, Fox2, KMOV4, KSDK, STLTv, AHTv Network, The Shaderoom, B.E.T and more. Her clients have also been featured in People Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, Black Enterprise, St. Louis American, St. Louis Post Dispatch, Riverfront Times, Feast Magazine, and Sauce Magazine. Donielle has carved a unique niche in the PR and Media Relations industry. The EDPR & M Agency is on track to become one of the largest Media Relations firms in the country. Donielle is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach! #ThePlugAndTheOutlet
Dwayn "DC" Elliott
ST. LOUIS CITY HR MANAGER OF TRAINING & ORGANIZATIONAL DEPARTMENT
Dwayn "DC" Elliott is the HR Manager of the Training and Organizational Development Department for the City of St. Louis. He is committed to the purpose for his life. Speaking, mentoring, counseling, and life coaching are the primary areas in which he positively impacts youth and adults to enhance life decisions to move in alignment with their gifts and abilities.
His specialties include Training and Developing People, Mentoring, Counseling, Sales, Speaking and Presenting, Team Management, Working in Microsoft office 365, HTML 5 Web design, Working in MAC Pages, Numbers, iMovie, and Keynote, Working in Multimedia and production.
Dwayne is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Panelist.
Ashley Harmon
CHILLAX TAP & CO, OWNER
Ashley Harmon, along with her husband Archie, is the co-founder and owner of Chillax Tap & Co., a craft beer taproom located in St. Peters. The duo opened Chillax in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and had to quickly adapt to continue serving their customers during the shutdown. They launched a Chillax Mobile Unit featuring 8 different craft beers soon after the opening of their first brick and mortar.
Chillax has received recognition and accolades from many local publications due to its adaptability and community-centered focus. The taproom was a finalist in the 2021 St. Louis Magazine A-list awards, and the couple received the "New Business of the Year" award from the Western St. Charles Chamber of Commerce in 2021. Ashley and Archie were also recipients of Delux Magazine's 2022 Power 100 award, which recognized the value they bring to the public.
Ashley is a regular on Fox 2's Brewsday Tuesday and the JBloom fall catalogs. With over ten years of experience in education and her knack for making meaningful connections, she knows how to rock any platform and connect with a crowd, which has led to many speaking engagements telling her story of living in a "YOLO Moment". She has a creative eye and industry knowledge, which led her to start the BoujeeBeerMom brand, a lively online space for both old and new members of the craft beer community, introducing people to the wonderful, tasty world of craft beer.
Ashley Harmon is an inspiring figure who has demonstrated resilience and determination in the face of challenges. She is passionate about her work and committed to building a community around her business. Ashley is a first time TEACH Initiave PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!
Korey Johnson
THE KOREY JOHNSON FOUNDATION
Korey Johnson has worked in the medical field as a Histotechnician for 18 years and is also the Director of The Korey Johnson Foundation 501C3. Korey has also co-produced and worked along with nationally recognized storyteller Bobby Norfolk in the mini docu-series, "Autism Talks" which aired on a local television channel. The "Autism Talks" series took a closer look into the lives of parents of children living with disabilities and provided parents a positive platform to share personal experiences about our children with disabilities. Since inception, Korey’s organization has sent 13,000 cases of water to Flint Michigan. His annual event, Can Skate, has given away over 40,000 non-perishable food items and over 5000 backpacks and school supplies to children and families in the St. Louis region. The Foundation has also aided in distributing over 2 million dollars in toys during the holidays, as well as 200,000 pairs of shoes at the Urban League back to school event in 2018 and 2019. Korey feels very blessed to have earned the trust of many people to do the right thing for the people of St. Louis, Missouri. Korey Johnson is part of the 2020 TEACH Initiative Team and PUT ME IN THE GAME Panelist!
Monique McKinney
THE MCM GOUP LLC/CEO
Monique is the veteran Human Resource Leader, Talent Expert and Founder/CEO of The MCM Group, LLC a certified WBE (Women Business Enterprise) company. She has over 25 years of proven experience leading in human resource management, talent development & strategies for profit and not-for-profit sectors. Over the course of her career, she has honed expertise human resource strategies, retention of top diverse talent, diversity & inclusion initiatives, and women entrepreneurship.
Currently, Mrs. McKinney oversee and operates The MCM Group, LLC a Human Resource Consulting & Staffing company. The MCM Group, LLC has partnered with AAIM Employer’s Association as a Senior Human Resource Consultant since 2018. Monique is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Panelist!
Jackie "JP CEO" Phillips
UNHEARD MEDIA PRESIDENT
Meet Jackie “JP” Phillips, an extraordinary serial entrepreneur with an illustrious 17-year track record of success across multiple industries. As the Founder and CEO of Unheard Media, Unheard TV, Unheard Radio, and the soon-to-launch Unheard Institute, JP's vision and leadership have propelled these ventures to remarkable success.
Unheard TV, an exceptional platform, has achieved a significant milestone, amassing over 2.7 million views in under 2 years. JP's entrepreneurial spirit extends to her role as the Founder of 12 Investment Groups and the Two Comma Society business coaching program, exemplifying her acumen in entrepreneurship and investments.
Her impact goes beyond the business world, as she has secured numerous government contracts, providing career opportunities to more than 250 employees. She has also helped over 150 people launch podcasts over the last 3 years. Her dedication to uplifting the community is further demonstrated through her membership in ForbesBLK and her appointment to the leadership council of the National Small Business Association.
JP's impressive partnerships have further fortified her position as a force to be reckoned with. She has cultivated essential Business Partnerships with industry giants such as Microsoft, Intel, Lenovo, Roku, and Spotify. And she also enjoys close collaborations with notable entities like The St. Louis Trotters, STL Boxing Academy, 88.1 The Truth, and Mix 99.5FM.
Beyond her business pursuits, JP actively engages in community involvement, making a significant impact through various initiatives. For four years, she has spearheaded the ACE Food distribution program, providing essential support to 200-500 families three times a week. Her Miracle Mondays initiative has uplifted over 100 families with minimum donations of $500 over eight years. Her dedication to empowering the next generation is also showcased through Unheard Media, where over 1,200 hours have been donated to youth coaching on careers in media, leadership, and digital marketing.
With an inspiring portfolio of accomplishments, Jackie “JP” Phillips continues to make an indelible mark on businesses, communities, and lives. JP is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!
Lynette Robinson
LIGHTER LIVING VIRTUAL SOLUTIONS
Lynette Robinson is a Certified Director of Operations and the Founder of Lighter Living Virtual
Solutions™ where she leverages her extensive corporate experience and personal passion for people to
equip small business CEOs with solid operations support and candidates to build their teams. Lynette is
committed to understanding her client’s needs and creating customized solutions that not only improves
their current position but also sets their businesses up to meet and exceed its goals and vision for the
future.
Before starting her own business, Lynette spent 13 years in corporate America in technology sales. Her
desire to have impact that transforms lives personally and professionally is what led Lynette to leave
corporate and form Lighter Living Virtual Solutions. Lynette is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach and Moderator!
Michelle Robinson
DEMI BLUE NATURAL NAILS
Michelle L. Robinson is the Owner of DEMIblue Natural Nails, LLC and creator of DEMI blue 7-Free Vegan Friendly Nail Polish Line. She has serviced the healthcare and education industries for over 18 years. Michelle was inspired to incorporate her research, experience, and love for servicing others in providing healthier manicures through the creation of her personal nail polish brand. It was then that DEMIblue was born! Understanding via her studies how toxins may impact the human body, Michelle takes this endeavor very seriously adding, “My mother is a cancer survivor. I understand seeking a healthier lifestyle is the key to cancer remission for my mother and possible prevention for others. The choices we make in our everyday life can have an impact”. Michelle Robinson is a three time facilitator of the TEACH programs an PUT ME IN THE GAME PANELIST!
Amanda Smith
SMITH REALTY GROUP
Amanda will bring a wealth of knowledge on local communities, current market conditions, and the home buying and selling process. She strives to provide exceptional service every step of the way and provides you with a real estate experience that exceeds your expectations. Amanda is a three time facilitator for the TEACH program and PUT ME IN THE GAME COACH. She is also a featured realtor on the HGTV series Lakefront Empire!
Tonita Williams-Smith
SMITH'S HEALTHCARE SERVICES/HAUS OF SMILES CEO
Tonita Smith is a retired Army Veteran who honorably served our country and retired in the rank of Major as the Chief of Public Health Nursing in February 2021.
She humbly considers herself to be a serial entrepreneur and is currently operating 3 successful businesses with her husband Ike, and one online apparel business; “Curse Breaker Apparel, Co. with her son Anthony.
She is the Founder of a non-profit organization, St. Louis Prayer Project, Inc. an organization that serves youth ages 10-18 years of age.
Tonita and her husband are the proud owners of Smith’s Homes, a real estate business serving as landlords to Section 8 tenants throughout the greater St. Louis area, and has a YouTube Channel, “The Smith’s Hustle,” teaching others how to acquire property and become quality landlords.
She is the CEO of Smith’s Healthcare Services, a state operated program for Consumer Directed Services.
Lastly, she owns and operates, “Haus of Smiles,” a medical/beauty spa located in Creve Couer, Mo.
Tonita has a passion for helping others. She has vowed to say, “Yes,” to every assignment that God has for her life and she strives to operate in excellence while doing so. In short, she wants to die empty of every gift that God has given her. Tonita is a three time TEACH Initiative Facilitator and PUT ME IN THE GAME COACH!
Janelle Stowers
STOWERS REALTY GROUP
Although Stowers Realty Group LLC was formed in 2015, the experience involved with the firm spans servicing St. Louis for over 15 years in real estate. The firm began as a vision for one realtor, Janelle Stowers, and has blossomed into a whirlwind in the St. Louis housing market.
Not only does Stowers Realty Group LLC focus on home ownership for families, we have also helped countless individuals purchase their first investment property, sell their family home, and build new construction homes. With the ultimate mission being to serve "one family at a time", Stowers Realty Group LLC has provided realty services in the greater St. Louis area and has now entered the Southwestern Illinois market.
As we continue to grow, our services include helping individuals buy, sell, and manage property. We sell both residential and community property. We also have experience in foreclosure and short sale properties. Our service portfolio continues to grow and we consistently make our mark in the St Louis real estate market. Janelle is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!.
Gwendolyn Taylor
FLIP THAT HOUSE BOARDGAME DESIGNER
Gwendolyn Brown Taylor affectionately known by most as Gwen, she is a trailblazer, entrepreneur, an inventor, ordained minister and motivational speaker, and this is just the short list of her many attributes and talents. She a native of Saint Louis, Missouri and currently resides in the area. Since childhood, growing up in family owned business, she’s always had an entrepreneurial spirit and drive. She began working at the family business at the age of 7 and hasn’t looked back since. Over the last four decades Gwen Taylor has pioneered multiple business ventures including authoring her first book Thy Maker Is Thy Husband, Executive Producer of the hit gospel stage play “A House Divided”. Currently she owns and operates J & J Fashions and Accessories, Co-Owner with her husband Chef Bruce Taylor of Brucey B’s Catering Company. Her latest entrepreneurial venture was the invention of a board game that is entitled “Flip That House” which is taking the country by storm. Her invention Flip That House is a competitive, fun and exciting family board game that also educates and provide insight into the world of real estate investing. In addition to pursing all of her goals and aspirations as a business owner, Gwen is currently employed at Centene Corporation/Home State Health Plan in a leadership role and holds a Master Degree in Health Care Administration. Gwen Taylor new board game Flip That House, is being used as an educational resource at the elementary and high school grade level. Standardize sample lesson plans are available for educators upon request. Flip That House is an excellent resource for entrepreneurial programs and personal finance related courses. Gwen Taylor is a very transparent and humble individual. She knows that it is only by the grace of God that she has lived to tell and experience the success that she is now reaping. With multiple failed marriages, business ventures and relationships, she is candid and will share with the world that God is yet able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us! Gwen is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!
Morgan Teague
Teague & Associates Bankruptcy Attorney
Morgan has earned the trust and referrals of her clients through consistent hard work and dedication to her clients. Morgan has helped a wide range of clients purchase and/or sell everything from small starter homes, forever homes, building new construction and investment properties! Not only does Morgan help her clients find their perfect home, she also flips properties and holds rental properties as well. She has been in real estate since 2015 and has had her brokerage since 2019. Morgan is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coache!
Andre N. Walker
MANUPSTL/OBSIDIAN MARKETING GROUP
Andre Nehemiah Walker also known as “Motivationaldre” is an Digital Marketing Strategist born and raised in St. Louis, Mo. Andre attended Arkansas State University where he competed on the D1 level for Collegiate Track and Cross Country. In 2016 Andre graduated with his bachelors in Business Finance and Sport Management. Andre is the Founder of Obsidian Marketing Group, & the CFO & Co-Founder of MANUPSTL, a male mentoring organization focused on the empowerment of all men, all ages! Andre, alongside his co- founder Co-founder Chris Hill, published their first book “The Re-Factor” in September of 2019. Andre lives his life with one mission in mind: To positively impact as many people as humanly possible. Andre is a two time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach/Moderator.
Marlon Whitfield
WHITFIELD FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS
Marlon Whitfield is the Founder of The Whitfield Foundation For Success located in St. Louis Missouri. The organization was inspired by the legacy of his great great grandfather, Owen Whitfield who led a dramatic roadside demonstration to protest the unfair treatment of sharecroppers, white and black, right here in Missouri. This was one of the first examples of an integrated protest against economic injustice that predates the modern civil rights movement.
The strike received national front-page news coverage, showcasing the harsh conditions families were force to live in due to unfair wages from land owners paid to the sharecroppers. This led to Owen eventually being invited to the White House to sit down and talk with President Roosevelt about the struggles of sharecroppers in America. Today, the foundation hosts a variety of STEAM programs that consist of 4 major areas; Coding, Robotics, Film, and VR/AR Experience. Marlon is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Coach!
AMY YAN
C THREE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
Amy Yan owns and operates C Three Business Consultants. C Three Business Consultants provides both business and technology solutions. They are a local company with a national presence. Amy has over 25 years in the technology sector and has taken what she has absorbed and applies it to her business today. She created her business 2 years ago to instill in her kids that you can do and be whatever you want with hard work and determination. Amy holds a certificate in Digital Marketing and Branding through Tactix. A group founded and funded by The Sequoyah Fund, Wells Fargo, Real Entrepreneurship, and Cherokee Preservation Foundation.+ Amy also holds a facilitator certificate presented by Harris Stowe State University. Amy graduated from the MECCA program at Harris Stowe State University and entrepreneurship program with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Women’s Business Center in 2022.+ Amy volunteers her time to lead two women’s monthly luncheons. With Women Empowering Women National and St. Louis Council of Consumer’s Construction Women’s Leadership. She facilitates the luncheons and provides guest speakers to educate, empower, and enlighten you both personally and professionally. Amy is contracted out by the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Women’s Business Center to counsel and coach women and minority entrepreneurs no matter what stage they are at with their business. Amy is a first time TEACH Initiative PUT ME IN THE GAME Panelist