Arian Simone & Keshia Knight Pulliam On The Why Behind Their $5 Million Dollar Investment In Black Women
The table is where bread is broken and deals are made, but sadly, for generations, Black women have been barred from taking their rightful seat. Statistics show that although women of color are starting businesses more than any other demographic, they are also the least funded, proving that even today, we are not only lacking a seat at the table, but a place in the room.
This was a conundrum that didn't sit well with author and entrepreneur Arian Simone, who recently joined forces with Emmy-nominated actress Keshia Knight Pulliam to launch The Fearless Fund, a company that is on a mission to invest $5 million dollars in aggressive, scalable businesses owned by women of color that are seeking pre-seed, seed, or Series A stage funding.
The Fearless Fund aims to invest time, mentorship, and anywhere between $50-250,000 in early-stage, high-growth WOC-led ventures that have established at least $100,000 in revenue. According to Keshia and several other studies that prove that women in business are lit, although venture capitalism can be a gamble, betting on Black women always pays off. "Honestly, we are the sure bet. We are the people we should be betting on because we're having so much success in the space."
This is the reason that Arian, Keshia, and their investment partners have chosen to invest in companies like EnrichHer, a company that recently won the Fearless Fund's pitch competition at Facebook's Headquarters, that is not only profitable but has the potential to sustain a long-term relationship.
@dewaynerogers
Arian, the best-selling author of Fearless Faith + Hustle: 21 Day Devotionaltold xoNecole that as an entrepreneur at heart for the past 20 years, spearheading The Fearless Fund was a destiny that, for her, was both necessary and inevitable. Today, the serial entrepreneur has now become a boss in her own right but says she'll never forget the lessons she learned when she was a broke college student.
"I promised myself then, 'Arian, one day you need to be the investor that you're looking for," Arian shared. "Women of color are starting businesses more than anybody else, but they're the least funded. Women right now are getting 2% of venture capital funds and women of color are getting less than 1% and there's no need for that."
Historically, the table can be the most important piece of furniture in the whole damn establishment, and since Black women couldn't find a seat, Arian and Keshia built one. The duo recently sat down with xoNecole and spilled the tea on everything you need to know to break into the investors' club the right way.
Here are four things you need to know before seeking investment and giving up equity in your business:
1. Know How It Works
I must admit, Shark Tank is my sh*t, but after my conversation with Arian and Keshia, I discovered that there is a lot I don't know about the world of venture capitalism. Although it may sound great to have a mogul give you a couple hundred stacks to play with, the investment industry is not a game.
Although The Fearless Fund is here for all of the empowerment, the goal of their company is to eventually make their money back with interest. Arian told xoNecole, "The goal, of course, is you want to select companies that cover the cost of the actual fund. And in addition to that, you want them to have a strategy to exit the fund within a certain period of time."
Although seeking an investor may be a viable option for some companies, Arian explained that additional capital is not always needed to maintain a thriving business. "Some businesses do not need venture capital. Some businesses, depending on where they're looking for growth and scale, you need the capital in order to do that."
Ultimately, these bosses agreed that making the decision to give up equity in a company is a decision that each founder has to make individually based on their company's needs. "That's a discussion for each founder, based upon their business and where their own resources lie and what their end goal is. What is their exit strategy? Are they looking to get acquired? A lot of that is based on where you are in your company," Arian shared.
Keshia added, "Depending on what the end strategy is, you need to know how much equity are you leaving on the table for other investors."
2. Vet Your Relationships
Securing an investment from a partner isn't for the faint of heart, it's a long-term commitment that you need to investigate thoroughly before you make any deals. Arian and Keshia warned of the importance of vetting your check because if that investor just so happens to leave the relationship, they leave with the equity you gave up in the initial business deal. Arian explained, "I think something that a lot of people don't realize is that for a company, once you get to the pinnacle, a lot of the times, the founder of the company only really has maybe 20 to 25% ownership in that company."
It is for this reason, Arian says, that you should make sure you're getting in bed with one helluva partner. She continued, "With that being said, you want to make sure that they're aware this is a long-term relationship, that this is a good marriage."
Nothing in this world is free, especially not money, and it's important to keep this in mind when you're giving up ownership of your company. So when it's time to give some equity in your business in exchange for capital, make sure you think before you let it go, sis.
3. Invest In You First, Sis
Along with being aware of your strengths and weaknesses, Arian and Keshia also noted the importance of putting your money where your mouth is. To this dynamic duo, one of the most attractive traits of a potential investment is being able to see that they invested in themselves, first. Keshia said bluntly, "You can't expect people to believe and put all of their money and efforts behind your business if you're not."
Arian agreed with this sentiment and affirmed that it's hard to believe in someone who doesn't believe enough in herself. "That's really important because you're going out here and asking people to invest in your dream, but how invested are you in your dreams? And I feel me that's a telltale sign, because someone who's truly invested, truly dedicated and has already shown that they put in the work and the sweat equity, is important."
4. Pay It Forward
Fruit doesn't grow from the vine to be eaten by the tree. Let that sink in for a minute. One of the most telling signs of a boss is her need to put others on, and Arian and Keshia think it's time for you to boss up too, sis. According to these ladies, the most effective way to level up your life is to pour into someone else's. Keshia stated, "We are a collective, and Arian and I both operate from a space of abundance and knowing that there is enough for everybody. And when you've been poured into, even though yes, it's an investment that we expect a return on, there are so many other layers that are poured that are shared."
Even though these women are at a place in their lives where they can easily kick their feet up and relax, they've chosen to dedicate their lives to creating a table where we can all thrive together. "Empowerment will happen. When you are in the place where you can then pay it forward to ensure that you do it too."
Keep up with Keshia and Arian's latest projects by following them on Instagram and learn more about the Fearless Fund at Fearless Fund.
Featured image by @dewaynerogers.
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Taylor "Pretty" Honore is a spiritually centered and equally provocative rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a love for people and storytelling. You can probably find me planting herbs in your local community garden, blasting "Back That Thang Up" from my mini speaker. Let's get to know each other: @prettyhonore.
This Couple Almost Let Their 8-Year Age Gap Keep Them From Finding Love With One Another
How We Met is a series where xoNecole talks love and relationships with real-life couples. We learn how they met, how like turned into love, and how they make their love work.
I’m willing to bet that this is not the first time you’ve seen this couple. Dalen Spratt is a television producer, owner of a tailored men's suit line, and creator of Ghost Brothers: Haunted Houseguests, which is currently streaming on Destination America. Stacey Spratt is also a serial entrepreneur, focusing mostly on events and the nonprofit world, and she is the owner of two award-winning craft beer bars called Harlem Hops. But their accolades are not what united them.
The couple met years ago at their alma mater, Clark Atlanta University, when they were still working to create the life they have now, and if you had told them then that they’d eventually tie the knot, the pair probably would’ve laughed in your face.
Today, they’re new parents, flourishing in their careers, and each others’ “teammates.” When desiring love, Dalen recommends not looking to other couples for advice. And Stacey advises staying true to what you want. “Don’t put age or limitations on love and children. If God could do it for me, why can’t he do it for you?”
Here's How We Met.
How did you meet?
Dalen: We met in 2005 when she was advising the Greek sororities and fraternities in college. She was old as hell in college, and I was a young buck (laughs). Everybody had a crush on her, but I didn’t think much of it. Then, in 2007, we were in the same grad school class, but she still wasn’t trying to see me then either. I had to catch her five years ago; I was very patient.
Stacey: Yeah, everybody in our grad school class called him Young, Fresh to Death because he was always dressed in B-school (what CAU affectionately refers to as business major classes), and we’d just wear sweatpants (laughs).
So, I know Dalen was always attracted to you. But what about you? Did your attraction to him develop over time?
Stacey: So 2006-2008 – all the years went by. I don’t think we were really thinking about each other at all back then. Years later, I had an event in Dallas, and I booked him to be a speaker. Then, a few years ago, Dalen posted a photo of him on Instagram, and I slid in his DMs. I remembered him being so young and handsome, and I’m like, I should hook him up with my younger cousin. His response was: "If you’re not hooking me up with you, no thank you." But I still thought he was too young at the time, and he started pulling receipts. Taraji P. Henson was dating someone young at the time, Gabrielle Union–
Dalen: First of all, I didn’t do that. You did that.
Stacey: Okay, I did. I thought he was a cutie pie, but that age thing was on my mind!
"Dalen posted a photo of him on Instagram, and I slid in his DMs. I remembered him being so young and handsome, and I’m like, I should hook him up with my younger cousin. His response was: 'If you’re not hooking me up with you, no thank you.'"
Courtesy
Talk to me about the first date. How did he change your mind?
Stacey: Our first date was at Tin Lizzy's in Atlanta. During that time, he was living in Dallas, so it was long-distance. But he came into town, and we just had a good time. We talked a lot, which we still do. It wasn’t anything fantastic.
Dalen: Don’t downplay our first date.
Then, walk me through your courtship. How did you get to the next level? What was that conversation like?
Stacey: I think he knew at age 43 or 44 I wasn’t playing around. But also, I think it just naturally progressed.
Dalen: Yeah, it just happened naturally. And I’m going to be honest, I don’t think initially either one of us thought it would be as serious as it was. She thought I was too young and I wasn’t ready for marriage, kids, and all that. I think we both thought we were just hanging out. But after spending so much time together, a lot of stuff started happening. Like, she had to have surgery early on. It wasn’t just time together; it was intimate time. Next thing we know, we just never left each other. That’s why we still don’t have an anniversary date because we never really asked.
"It wasn't just time together; it was intimate time. Next thing we know, we just never left each other. That's why we still don't have an anniversary date because we never really asked."
What made you want to commit to each other?
Dalen: The moment I knew Stacey was for me was from a phone call. I don’t really like talking on the phone, and I can be really blunt sometimes. But we were talking, and I said, ‘I don’t really feel like talking anymore.’ And she was just like, okay, and hung up. I wasn’t trying to be rude, and she understood that. It sounds bad, but that’s how I knew she just got me. I felt like she could get my random awkward moments, and she does to this day.
Stacey: For me, I liked him as a person. Even when times get rough and tough, I could still like him as a human. He is my best friend. We have time. We laugh until we cry, and it’s just always like that. Even when we get pissed at each other, something happens, and we fix it. Also, how he treats his mother. That’s a momma’s boy, but I’m a daddy’s girl – so I get it. I know how I want to be treated, and I see how he is with her and that’s beautiful.
What are some important lessons you’ve learned about yourself through loving your partner in this relationship?
Dalen: I grew up an only child and she grew up with siblings. So, when you have someone who is used to doing things by themselves, there is definitely a learning curve when you get into a serious relationship. It’s funny now, but it was definitely a process.
Stacey: I agree – definitely the only child thing. There’s times I look at him like, did you ever live with anyone else? That comes from being momma's baby, too. I have to say, my “mother-in-love” spoiled him. But also with Axel (their daughter), that brings another level of patience.
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images
What was the biggest challenge that you had to overcome together?
Dalen: We’ve gone through a lot within the years we’ve been together. We suffered two miscarriages – I’d say that’s the biggest.
Stacey: Having those miscarriages and trying to understand what’s next and what our options are was a lot. I had two myomectomies (fibroid surgeries), and he supported me through that time. Also, still, it was on my mind that he’s eight years younger than me. I was wondering if I can’t carry [a child] what that looks like for us. We had very real conversations pretty early in our relationship.
"Having those miscarriages and trying to understand what’s next and what our options are was a lot. I had two myomectomies (fibroid surgeries), and he supported me through that time. Also, still, it was on my mind that he’s eight years younger than me."
What do you fight the most about?
Dalen: Nagging. Stacey nags; she’s a complainer. She’s that momma that will look in a room and just hunt for something to complain about. Like, I’m worried for Axel when she's in high school.
Stacey: It’s because I like things to be in place. He leaves stuff all over the place. I can tell where he’s been in the house because something is left around. So he says I’m nagging – but it’s like, just get your stuff.
What are your love languages?
Dalen: Stacey is gifts all day.
Stacey: *thinks*
Dalen: We’ve talked about this. xoNecole is about to cause problems in our home (laughs).
Stacey: Obviously I love you. *thinks again* It’s words of affirmation.
Dalen: That’s it.
What’s your favorite thing about each other?
Dalen: I’ve always respected her business-mindedness. That may sound superficial, but it’s not because I’ve never been with someone who thinks like me. It’s one of my most treasured things about her. I remember one day, I was just running through ideas with her, and each time Stacey had a suggestion on how I could make it better. It’s just very comforting. She takes whatever I’m doing and elevates it – including me.
Stacey: I love Dalen’s hustle and creativity. He’s been on multiple shows, and he continues to create, produce, and reinvent himself and the product he’s putting out. I love that we can create together and bounce things off each other. Even though we may be in different arenas, there’s nothing he can’t offer me great advice about. I love that drive.
Finally, how did you know it was love?
Dalen: Well – she said it – first. (laughs)
Stacey: And he looked at me and smiled! He didn’t say it back. We were on a trip, out of the country.
Dalen: We were arguing when she said it, and she just threw it out.
Stacey: But we continue to do that. We’ve spent holidays and everything outside of the country.
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The Scorpio man and Pisces woman form a relationship that is heartfelt, sincere, and not for the weak. There is an immediate connection and familiarity between these two, being that they are both water signs and are both ruled by their emotions. They are on a similar playing field in life, yet they go about their desires in love in a very different way.
Scorpio Man And Pisces Woman Love Compatibility
Ultimately, a partnership being formed between the two is an intimate and emotionally transformative one, and this is a relationship they both never forget. Things can get messy, but if they are willing to do the work within, then the love can also be pretty amazing for them as well. They are all in or nothing when it comes to partnerships, and they learn a lot about true commitment and vulnerability through this pairing.
What attracts a Scorpio man to a Pisces woman?
The Scorpio man is attracted to the Pisces woman's mysterious aura and emotional demeanor. The Pisces woman is attracted to the same things as the Scorpio man. See, these two are more similar than most signs of the zodiac, and they can intuitively feel this about each other right away. Pisces and Scorpio often share similar interests and have a lot of opportunities to meet each other because they like to do the same things and are often in the same places. These are two creative and artistic souls, and there is something that they both find inspiring about each other right away.
The connection and synergy of a Pisces and Scorpio couple is undeniable, and there is a strong force in life that often brings these two together. The Pisces woman can feel that there is more to the surface than the Scorpio man presents right away, and this is instantly intriguing to her, being that she rules the 12th house, which is where everything is hidden in life. The Pisces woman has secrets of her own, and she sees the Scorpio man as someone who can resonate with how she feels and dive deeper into the relationship together.
What is the relationship like between a Pisces woman and a Scorpio man?
The relationship between the Pisces woman and the Scorpio man is emotional. Emotions run very high in this relationship, which is often a good thing, but can turn into something entirely different very quickly as well. The Pisces woman and Scorpio man often get into a relationship together quickly. They are not earth signs that take their time developing a relationship; they are water signs that base their decisions on their emotions and go with the flow of the currents here.
So when they meet and they feel that instant connection with each other, they often jump into a pairing with one another right away.
This couple will enjoy spending time together and will feel like they are deeply understood in the relationship. There is a comfort here that is truly profound, and if anything, they are best friends first and foremost. However, the Pisces woman and Scorpio man tend to let their emotions overwhelm them and can turn little things into something bigger. Arguments or disagreements in this relationship can get messy, and they are both somewhat emotionally impulsive. Neither will forgive and forget easily as well, so reaching a point of forgiveness or harmony after something challenging occurs may never happen.
This relationship works best if both parties have already experienced a long-term commitment or have learned their lessons in love and evolved. The longevity of the relationship will depend on how they begin it. However, the love they have for one another is undeniable.
What is the sex like between a Scorpio man and a Pisces woman?
The sex life between the Pisces woman and Scorpio man is transcendent. They tend to have no issues in the bedroom, and that instant connection they feel when they meet often has an underlying energy of sexual compatibility as well. This isn’t the type of couple to wait a long time to explore each other in the bedroom, and they form a deep intensity here right away. They are looking to connect on many different levels, and they feel enough compatibility in the connection to do so.
The Pisces woman is willing to explore in the bedroom, and the Scorpio man is ready for anything. This is a couple who will entertain role-play, bondage, etc., and there are a few limitations to what they are both interested in. With the Pisces woman providing a safe space to many, the Scorpio man feels comfortable opening up in many different ways, the main one including behind closed doors and in the bedroom. They are emotional at their core, however, and will still want a level of intimacy with each other that goes deeper than just sex, so although their sex life is great, there is more they both want at the end of the day.
What makes a relationship between a Pisces woman and a Scorpio man work?
What makes the relationship work between these two water signs, is that they both understand each other deeply. They don’t have to explain themselves or work too hard on getting to know each other because it’s almost instant that they do. They speak the same language, in other words, and they can learn a lot from each other in the process. They are more open with each other, and their more reclusive demeanor changes in the presence of one another. This is a couple that likes to spend time together doing things that each other has an interest in.
At the end of the day, these are just two people who want to love and be loved, and they can give each other that.
The Pisces woman helps the Scorpio man open up more, go with the flow, and trust the universe. The Scorpio man helps the Pisces woman step into her power, stick up for herself more, and live life fully. There is something creative and eye-opening about this pairing, and they create their own world together. Trust is everything between the both of them and once they have that, they lay the foundation for the relationship to grow and thrive.
What may cause a Scorpio man and a Pisces woman to break up?
The thing about a water sign relationship is that things can get messy. Emotions are always running high, and if they are not on the same page, this can lead to the energy of the relationship being all over the place. The Pisces woman is loyal, attentive, and compassionate, but she is also a free spirit who likes her space and freedom. The Scorpio man, on the other hand, craves deep intimacy and partnership and may have a hard time trusting the Pisces woman, and that trust needs to be had in a relationship.
Scorpio may find Pisces to be too wishy-washy for his liking, although Pisces just sees herself as someone open-minded and flexible and doesn't understand why the Scorpio man can’t be a little more like that as well.
This relationship can fall apart due to things becoming overwhelming too quickly. They tend to get into the relationship quickly and break up just as fast as well. If they can act on mental clarity as much as they do their emotions, then this can create a more solid ground for the relationship to grow and continue to grow upon. You would think that being with someone who is the same element as you is a recipe for success in a relationship, but two of the same things can be too much at the end of the day.
Summary: Is a Scorpio man and a Pisces woman compatible?
Ultimately, this is a relationship with high compatibility, and depending on the two people at hand, it will determine how things unfold here. They have the tools needed to form a sincere, loving, and compassionate relationship but will have to confront each other's differences with the same attitude to work. Once the first challenge or conflict arises in the relationship, how they handle it afterward will determine if the relationship is going to work out or not.
These two are perfect when things are going well, but can be dramatic when they are not. The Pisces woman and Scorpio man can’t get enough of each other at the end of the day, and this will indeed be a relationship that they will never forget.
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Featured image by Anchiy/Getty Images