Ebony Nicole Smith- She Speaks
Ebony Nicole is a writing coach, publishing engineer, author, transformational speaker, and woman of faith who has dedicated her career to helping others share the stories God has placed on their hearts. Through her Rochester-based consulting company, she has coached more than 500 aspiring authors and helped over 80 writers publish their books, empowering them to turn their experiences into healing, purpose, and lasting impact.
A respected entrepreneur and community leader, Ebony Nicole is also the co-founder and Vice President of the Rochester Black Authors Association, host of the Black Authors ROC Podcast, and a former radio co-host on 100.9 WXIR FM.
Her work has earned her numerous honors, including the 2020 100 Successful Women in Business Award and the 2023 Black Men Achieve President's Award.
During the show, we'll discuss her journey as an entrepreneur, the power of storytelling, the publishing process, the role faith has played in her life and business, and how anyone with a story to tell can take the first step toward becoming an author.
Kerynn- Stem Plants Roc
Kerynn is the owner of Stem Rochester, a unique plant boutique that has become a destination for plant lovers, local artists, and community connection. A 36-year-old single mother and entrepreneur, Kerynn studied business before learning the horticultural side of the industry from her former business partner. That combination of business knowledge and hands-on experience has allowed her to build a shop that is about far more than plants.
To Kerynn, plants have an incredible way of bringing people together regardless of culture, race, experience, or social status. Creating a welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and share a common passion is what she loves most about her work.
Opening Stem Rochester at the tail end of the pandemic plant boom meant adapting quickly to an industry that changed almost overnight. Plants that sold for hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars during COVID can now be found at big-box retailers for a fraction of the price. Like many businesses in the hospitality industry, Stem Rochester has continually evolved its business model to keep pace with changing consumer trends while maintaining a unique customer experience.
A passionate supporter of Rochester's creative community, Kerynn has also made Stem Rochester a showcase for local talent, featuring the work of more than 40 local artists throughout her store. Her commitment to the community extends beyond her business, having served as both Treasurer and President of the Monroe Avenue Business Association and remaining an active member of the Monroe Avenue Merchants Association.
Before becoming a business owner, Kerynn worked in event planning, an experience that helped shape her ability to create engaging customer experiences and foster community relationships.
Her entrepreneurial journey has been anything but easy. She has successfully relocated her business three times, endured the dissolution of a business partnership that resulted in a lengthy lawsuit, and has even been the victim of multiple robberies—including one at knifepoint. Rather than allowing those challenges to define her, they have strengthened her resilience and determination to continue building a business she loves.
Through every success and setback, Kerynn remains an open book, believing that sharing the realities of entrepreneurship—the triumphs, the struggles, and even the bizarre moments—helps inspire and prepare others pursuing their own dreams.
Keri Klein- Flower City Ceremonies
Maryann Rivera-Dannert MRD Empowerment Solutions
Maryann Rivera-Dannert is an author, podcast host, and certified life coach dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey from uncertainty to a life filled with purpose and passion. Her story is one of resilience and triumph, shaped by personal challenges that could have kept her stuck but instead propelled her forward.
As the author of 20+ published anthologies, two journals, and her own solo books, her written works serve as a source of inspiration and practical guidance. Each piece reflects her commitment to helping others navigate their challenges.
Additionally, she launched a podcast, “Fearless Fridays with Maryann,” which has been renamed to HealingHer Within, which provides a platform for meaningful conversations about life, motivation, hope, and personal/professional growth.
She has faced and conquered significant challenges in life, including surviving sexual abuse, being a high school drop-out, overcoming the hardships of teenage motherhood, and enduring domestic violence. These obstacles have shaped her understanding and empathy, allowing her to connect with her clients on a deeper level. She's not just talking the talk; she's walked the walk, and she's here to help others do the same.
Maryann has a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Management from Roberts Wesleyan University, a Master's in Strategic Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University, and an Honorary Doctorate from Trinity International University of Ambassadors (T.I.U.A.). Additionally, she is certified by the John C. Maxwell Certification Program as a Coach, Speaker, and Trainer.
Maryann loves the beach, traveling, and spending time with her family in Western, NY.
