Roots of Sustainable Impact

Community as a Superpower: How Ecosystems Drive Impact with Leroy Brown

Eloisa Marquez-Gonzalez

Hey there, it's Eloisa!  Welcome back to Roots of Sustainable Impact.  

This episode is packed with energy, insight, and community-driven innovation. I had the pleasure of chatting with Leroy Brown from Opportunity Hub (OHUB) in New Orleans.

We dive deep into why community is a superpower and how building an ecosystem with culture at its core creates a real, lasting impact. Leroy shares how OHUB supports Black and Brown founders, incubating over 100 businesses and funding multiple projects—all while staying deeply connected to the local culture.

We also explore:

How collaboration fuels innovation—connecting artists, storytellers, and tech founders to drive climate solutions.

The power of circularity—how New Orleans bars are competing in “Bar Wars” to recycle glass bottles into sand, which then becomes art and construction material.

Making sustainability fun—integrating eco-friendly practices into events like Super Bowl parties and Mardi Gras.

Breaking down silos—a step-by-step approach to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Oh, and we couldn’t help but talk football—because it was Super Bowl season! 🏈 (Spoiler: We both have a soft spot for the Eagles.)

Leroy’s passion for community, sustainability, and economic empowerment is contagious. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a community builder, or just looking for inspiration, this episode has something for you!

So grab a coffee (or a recycled glass bottle beer 🍻) and tune in!

🎧 Listen now and learn how to build impact—one connection at a time.


Connect with Leroy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leroy-brown-2b21bb34/


Links and Resources:

  • OHub  https://opportunityhub.co/
  • OHub Podcast  https://ohub.piksel.plus/
  • OHUB Climate Tech Bootcamp https://opportunityhub.typeform.com/cohort3


Leroy's bio:

Leroy Brown is a proud Louisiana native and graduate of Tulane University. Hailing from Longwood, a small town just outside of Shreveport, he embodies a unique blend of small-town values and big-city aspirations. Over the years, Leroy has cultivated a diverse career in sales, navigating various industries including pharmaceuticals, media, and construction. Currently, he is Opportunity Hub’s (OHUB) Ecosystem Development Lead.

Leroy's professional ethos revolves around the power of connection. He views the entire community as a dynamic ecosystem that adapts and thrives. He excels at building alliances and fostering collaboration, firmly believing that intentional networking is essential for project success. He is passionately committed to the economic development of Louisiana. He is also committed to empowering individuals and businesses, inspiring them to engage, believe, and move forward with their dreams.


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