DO GOOD X Podcast
Welcome to the DO GOOD X Podcast – where purpose meets business, and the journey is just as important as the destination. Hosted by advocates for impactful entrepreneurship, Kimberly Daniel and Stephen Lewis, this podcast creates a space for Black and Brown folk, especially Black women, navigating the intricate path of purposeful business.
In this sanctuary, the hosts understand the challenges of entrepreneurship, and their mission is to help listeners transform doubt into confidence, fostering the growth of their dreams without sacrificing well-being.
Embark on a transformative journey, discovering inspiration to fuel your passion for business. Shared experiences and stories act as beacons, nurturing you for the entrepreneurial road ahead.
Navigate the challenges of being an under-resourced entrepreneur with practical strategies and resources in the Tools & Tips segment. Overcome obstacles and thrive in the purpose-driven business world.
In the Mentorship segment, hear from seasoned guides who have successfully built businesses with a focus on social impact. Gain insights not only from the guests but also from hosts who intimately understand the unique journey of overlooked entrepreneurs.
This podcast is more than a productivity machine; it's about slowing down to go further. Each episode invites listeners to exhale, reconnect with inner wisdom, and rediscover the power of community. Embrace the impact your business can make without compromising well-being.
Leave feeling lighter, shedding stress, embracing self-compassion, and finding joy in the entrepreneurial journey. Gain actionable insights, learn from diverse perspectives, and expand your knowledge with tools for success, guided by hosts Kimberly and Stephen.
Feel empowered, recognizing yourself as your greatest asset. Build confidence to develop and grow a viable, impactful business aligned with the needs of the community.
About the Hosts
Kimberly R. Daniel catalyzes entrepreneurs and organizations to do good. She is
co-founder and project director of DO GOOD X, a community that provides programs
and support for faith-driven social entrepreneurs whose businesses focus on positive
Change.
Kimberly also helps purpose-driven organizations clarify and design compelling brand and communication strategies. With over 15 years of experience developing and leading communications efforts, it is her commitment to produce effective processes and create authentic, “sticky” brands that are community-centered.
In any aspect of her work, she is deeply passionate about purpose, meaning, and the
common good.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-r-daniel/
Stephen Lewis is the president of the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) and creator and co-founder of DO GOOD X, a community that provides programs and support for faith-driven social entrepreneurs whose businesses focus on positive change.
He is an organizational change strategist and a leadership development specialist,
focused on inspiring the next generation of faith-inspired leaders and entrepreneurs to live and work on purpose. Stephen is the co-author of Another Way: Living and Leading Change on Purpose (2020) and A Way Out of No Way: An Approach to Christian Innovation (2021).
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-lewis-8b1b941/
DO GOOD X Podcast
Ep. 4 Diversity in Publishing with Leah Hernandez
This episode of DO GOOD X features Leah Hernandez, the inspiring founder of the award-winning Muse Inc. Leah is on a mission to bring diversity to adult and children’s literature. Tune in to hear her incredible journey, from starting her path to success in college to becoming a publishing powerhouse. We'll also delve into the lack of representation in children's books and how Leah is working to change the narrative. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur or someone who wants to make a difference in the publishing world, this episode is packed with inspiration, and Leah's story of overcoming challenges in a traditionally white-dominated industry is sure to motivate you! Don't miss it!
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:00) Introduction
(1:20) Kimberly R. Daniel introduces Leah Hernandez, and explains the call she had to author her first book and create Muse Inc.
(6:53) Leah discusses statistics reflected in the state of Black and Brown people in the publishing industry.
(10:47) There were many hurdles relating to funding and working as a nonprofit, Leah shares advice for anyone considering starting a nonprofit.
(17:38) In 2025, Muse Inc. is launching Roots, an AI publishing platform to assist people in creating a family legacy book. She advises students of color wanting to pursue entrepreneurship.
(24:56) Tools and advice for getting into the publishing industry.
(30:53) Leah mentions another daily habit that contributed to her success, and she speaks about a banking relationship and listening to podcasts.
(26:38) Leah responds to Kimberly’s off-the-cuff rapid-fire questions.
(37:55) Leah shares her outlook on life and her priorities. Leah and Kimberly discuss their daily lives.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- [5:37] Books highlighting marginalized communities’ diversity, culture, and stories are needed to allow young people to see their lives reflected on a page because representation matters.
- [7:26] Less than 7 percent of children’s books are written by Black, Latinx, and Native American authors. White people are writing newer books featuring diverse characters, but there is still room for improvement and representation within the industry
- [11:02] Starting a nonprofit works for some sectors of the marketplace; however, when you have fulfilled your goals, you will need an exit strategy
RESOURCES:
Leah Hernandez is the Founder and CEO of Muse Inc., an award-winning publishing company known for its commitment to promoting diverse voices in adult fiction and nonfiction. Muse Inc. encompasses various imprints, including the esteemed Young Authors Publishing, the flagship imprint under the Muse brand. Muse Inc. has published over 40 books, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and expanding the literary landscape.
Muse Inc. proudly distributes works from two black-owned publishers, Through Us Books and POPOUT Zine, furthering its commitment to supporting underrepresented voices in the industry. With a steadfast dedication to impacting the lives of others by providing a platform for storytelling, Leah continues to drive Muse Inc. toward its mission of inclusivity and empowerment in publishing.