What does it take to grow a business, and a community, through the power of collaboration? In this inspiring keynote session from the 2025 Detroit Means Business Summit, DMB Senior Program Manager Tekeyah Gaines sits down with Melissa Butler, Founder and CEO of The Lip Bar, for a candid fireside chat on building bold brands, breaking barriers and leaning into partnership to scale success. Melissa shares insights from her entrepreneurial journey, including how staying rooted in Detroit, embracing authenticity and working alongside other visionaries has shaped her growth. Whether you're a startup, a legacy business, or somewhere in between, this conversation will leave you motivated to build with purpose, and with others. 🔗 Learn more about Detroit Means Business: www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/ 📲 Follow us for more: @DetroitMeansBusiness

Change is inevitable. Collaboration is essential. And sometimes, the best path forward starts with a pivot. In this dynamic DMB Live session from the 2025 Detroit Means Business Summit, moderator Lanasia Buck, Mindset & Business Coach, leads an honest and powerful conversation on resilience, reinvention, and redefining success in the face of change. Panelists include: ✨ Tony Stovall, Co-owner & CEO of Hot Sam’s Detroit ✨ Espy Thomas, "Queen of Awesomeness" at Sweet Potato Sensations Inc. ✨ Ebony Cochran, Owner & Senior Consultant of The Debt Survivor Each panelist shares lessons from their entrepreneurial journey—navigating challenges, leaning into community, and finding creative ways to collaborate when the usual playbook no longer applies. Whether you're an established business owner or just getting started, this conversation is packed with real talk, practical advice, and serious Detroit energy. 🔗 Learn more about Detroit Means Business: www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/ 📲 Follow us for more: @DetroitMeansBusiness

What does it take to build a lasting legacy in the beauty and barber industry? In this powerful breakout session from the 2025 Detroit Means Business Summit, Joe Dudley Jr., President of Dudley Direct LLC, delivers practical strategies and timeless wisdom for beauty and barber professionals looking to grow their business, elevate their mindset, and build generational success. Drawing from decades of experience in one of the most iconic family-run haircare companies in the country, Joe speaks directly to barbers, stylists, and beauty entrepreneurs about the importance of discipline, customer service, and treating your business like a business. If you’re in the beauty or barber world—or aspire to be—this session is a must-watch. 💈 Learn more about Detroit Means Business: www.detroitmeansbusiness.org 📲 Stay connected: @DetroitMeansBusniess