Professional Troublemaker with Luvvie Ajayi Jones

In this powerful closing chapter, Luvvie shares how divine order is real, and the transformative arc of her company. And how this podcast season 5 has changed the game for her. This episode is a love letter to everyone in their valley season, a reminder that the climb back up is possible (and worth it). Luvvie reflects on the lessons, the legacy, and the liberation that comes from knowing when to let go.

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

Luvvie reflects on the almost 7 years of this podcast, which has been fulfilling but a heavy lift. In a season of auditing everything, both professional and personal, she's considering whether this podcast should continue at all.

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

This episode features Luvvie with Chloe Hakim-Moore, a visionary entrepreneur who has built multiple million-dollar companies without ever losing sight of her purpose. Together, they talk about redefining entrepreneurship by creating businesses rooted in well-being, justice, and profitability. Chloe shares her insights on building generational wealth as an act of resistance, the importance of knowing your strengths and making room for balance amidst ambition.

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2024

In this episode, Luvvie is talking to lawyer, coach, and newly minted author Rachel Rodgers. Rachel is telling some powerful and formative stories she’s never shared before. She talks all about her career as a lawyer and how she shifted into the coaching and entrepreneurial space, and why she’s so passionate about making sure women – especially Black women – have the knowledge and tools they need to build multi-generational wealth. Rachel is someone who works hard, knows her boundaries, and is such a professional troublemaker.

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2024

In this episode, Luvvie is talking to lawyer, coach, and newly minted author Rachel Rodgers. Rachel is telling some powerful and formative stories she’s never shared before. She talks all about her career as a lawyer and how she shifted into the coaching and entrepreneurial space, and why she’s so passionate about making sure women – especially Black women – have the knowledge and tools they need to build multi-generational wealth. Rachel is someone who works hard, knows her boundaries, and is such a professional troublemaker.

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2024

In this season finale, Luvvie reflects on the power of stillness and slowing down. After what seems to be her toughest year in business, Luvvie reveals how stepping back, finding peace, and moving with intention have transformed her life and business. She shares the profound realizations that came from pausing, prioritizing healing, and embracing stillness. This episode is a MUST-listen for anyone needing to reclaim clarity and rebuild, whether it be your own person or your business.

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2024

Earlier this season, Luvvie promised to answer your questions on life and business, and here they are! Luvvie shares her wisdom on building self-confidence, adjusting pricing structures, balancing entrepreneurship with personal relationships, and how mentorship has shaped her journey. Tune in for practical tips and actionable advice!

Transcribed - Published: 30 July 2024

The tables are turned as Luvvie hands over the interviewing mic to her producer, Tish. Luvvie opens up about her calling, her ongoing life audit, letting go of assignments and embracing new ones, and the transformative role that faith has played in her personal and professional life.

Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2024

Luvvie sits down with Fisayo Longe, the visionary founder of Kai Collective, for an episode that’s about leaning into your boldness and resilience, to make your dreams happen. Fisayo shares her story of navigating crises, from losing a significant six-figure shipment to dealing with burnout, and how she managed to turn every setback into a comeback. They discuss the importance of resilience, discovering and embracing one's identity beyond business, and how staying authentic has been key to Fisayo's success.

Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2024

This bonus episode delves further into Fawn's lessons on the power of obedience, purpose and clarity, and finding divine alignment. Whether you're seeking guidance in your business or personal life, this episode is what Luvvie dubs a 'masterclass' for anyone seeking to live a purpose-driven, God-led life. This was more than just a conversation, it was a spiritual and motivational experience that Luvvie felt was just too good not to share.

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2024

Luvvie speaks to Fawn Weaver, the brilliant mind behind Uncle Nearest Whiskey, for an episode that is simply soul food. They go deep on how she left home at 15, and then finds meaning in life, while laying in a hospital bed. They talk about faith, purpose, obedience, legacy, and how she has been able to build a billion dollar company, while maintaining deep, divine peace. Luvvie says “this might be the best podcast episode I’ve ever recorded” because this one is special.

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2024

Luvvie explores the inspiring journey of Morgan DeBaun, the visionary founder and CEO of Blavity Inc., as she discusses building a media empire for black millennials. Morgan shares her path from Silicon Valley to establishing a diverse and mission-driven company, highlighting the challenges of fundraising, overcoming skepticism, and the importance of resilience and innovation. Offering valuable insights on leadership, team building, and navigating entrepreneurship, Morgan's story is a powerful testament to ambition, community, and staying true to one's vision. More about Morgan: Morgan DeBaun is a serial entrepreneur and the founder, CEO, and Chairman of Blavity Inc. Under her leadership, Blavity Inc. has become a market leader, reaching over 100 million readers per month with its brands including Blavity, 21Ninety, AfroTech, Travel Noire, Home & Texture, and Shadow & Act. Her achievements have earned her accolades such as ADCOLOR’s Innovative Award, Forbes 30 Under 30, and recognition among America’s Top 50 Women in Tech.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2024

Luvvie sits down with colleague and dear friend, Tiffany 'The Budgetnista' Aliche, as she shares her journey from teacher to becoming a leading figure in financial education. Tiffany discusses how the loss of her husband changed her, personally and professionally, and how 2023 was also her worst year of business. It all forced her to re-evaluate everything in her life, including how she learned to accept help and how she restructured her company post-loss. The conversation highlights her innovative strategies for financial success, the importance of personal boundaries, and the evolution of her leadership style, emphasizing the importance of relinquishing control and trusting her team, vulnerability, transparency, and community impact.

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2024

In this episode, Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed psychologist, speaker, author, media personality, and host of the award-winning podcast 'Therapy for Black Girls,' joins the conversation to share practical strategies on maintaining mental health while navigating the pressures of managing a business. The discussion sheds light on the underlying reasons for why we keep busy, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need to learn the skill of asking for help. Luvvie and Dr. Joy delve into triggers and trauma, self-compassion, and giving oneself (and others) grace in running a purpose-driven life. More about Dr. Joy: Dr. Joy Harden Bradford is a Licensed Psychologist and the host of the wildly popular, award-winning mental health podcast Therapy for Black Girls. Her work focuses on making mental health topics more relevant and accessible for Black women, and she delights in using pop culture to illustrate psychological concepts.

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2024

In this episode, Luvvie sets the scene for her journey to rebuilding. She dives deep into The Fallout post-Crumbling, and reveals the full truth about the aftermath of the chaos. She reveals the gaps she's had to fill, the holes she's had to fix, and the implications of all the mess to her personal and entrepreneurial life, including the erosion of her trust, the dark days she's had to sit through, and what kept her going. In navigating through her toughest business year, she emphasizes the importance of finding one's courage, the role of faith, and the love and support from one's village.

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2024

In this mini episode, Luvvie looks back and expresses gratitude for the heartwarming feedback she's received for this season of Professional Troublemaker. Listeners are also invited to visit askluvvie.com and to drop their business-related questions, so that Luvvie may answer them in a future episode. Stay tuned for a sneak peek of the next episode, where Luvvie hints at the amazing insights that will be dropped by a renowned guest.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie is joined by Sally Thornton, HR Consultant and the Founder of Forshay, to give her insider perspective as 'team gardener' on the dysfunction, blind spots, and the necessary overhaul of Awe Luv Media. Luvvie and Sally explore the complexities of leadership, the importance of truth-telling in business, and managing team dynamics through turbulent transitions. They share insights on the significance of financial management, the challenges of scaling, maintaining productivity amidst internal conflicts, and the journey of rebuilding a more intentional and focused company. Sally emphasizes the importance of aligning work with energy and passion, and shares practical tips on team building for solopreneurs and small business owners. More About Sally: Sally is the CEO & Founder of Forshay, a firm that takes a holistic lens on how hard work can accomplished more easily, as it’s essential to have both the right players on the team, and the culture and organizational structure that enables people to do their best work. Forshay does this in two ways – with a modern approach to executive recruiting, and by supporting overworked teams with interim experts in the People/HR and Marketing domains -- all grounded with inclusion, diversity, equity and belonging. Sally has done two TEDx talks and has been featured in numerous media including Wall Street Journal, BBC, and Harvard Business Review, aside from her regular lectures at Stanford and UC Berkeley.

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie dives deep into 'The Crumbling' - the most tumultuous period of Awe Luv Media - as it faces operational chaos, underperformance, and financial distress in the first half of 2023. Luvvie recounts experiences of unexpected challenges, including unmet deadlines, poor productivity, and critical financial losses that brought the company to the brink of bankruptcy. Despite overemphasizing core values, setting clear priorities, and empowering the team, mistakes continued left and right, leading to the firing of all but one of seven internal team members. In the midst of these challenges, Luvvie also celebrates the successful launch of their fourth book, 'Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess,' which, in spite of all the seemingly insurmountable hurdles, becomes a New York Times bestseller, providing a glimmer of hope and validation amidst the crisis. The episode reflects on leadership, the importance of trust within a team, and the personal and professional toll of navigating business failures, setting the stage for the next episode: recovery and rebuilding.

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie dives deep into 'The Crumbling' - the most tumultuous period of Awe Luv Media - as it faces operational chaos, underperformance, and financial distress in the first half of 2023. Luvvie recounts experiences of unexpected challenges, including unmet deadlines, poor productivity, and critical financial losses that brought the company to the brink of bankruptcy. Despite overemphasizing core values, setting clear priorities, and empowering the team, mistakes continued left and right, leading to the firing of all but one of seven internal team members. In the midst of these challenges, Luvvie also celebrates the successful launch of their fourth book, 'Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess,' which, in spite of all the seemingly insurmountable hurdles, becomes a New York Times bestseller, providing a glimmer of hope and validation amidst the crisis. The episode reflects on leadership, the importance of trust within a team, and the personal and professional toll of navigating business failures, setting the stage for the next episode: recovery and rebuilding.

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie pulls back the curtain on the rollercoaster of transitioning from being a solopreneur to running a 7-figure business. Needing to diversify revenue streams, she went from having one executive assistant to 7 full-time salaried employees (with benefits!). And all the plans she had for 2023, with strategy. How she created systems, strategy and plans to double her revenue. She walks us through her business transformation, from the highs of scaling up to a multimillion-dollar company, to the lows of shrinking down her 'dream' team.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie pulls back the curtain on the rollercoaster of transitioning from being a solopreneur to running a 7-figure business. Needing to diversify revenue streams, she went from having one executive assistant to 7 full-time salaried employees (with benefits!). And all the plans she had for 2023, with strategy. How she created systems, strategy and plans to double her revenue. She walks us through her business transformation, from the highs of scaling up to a multimillion-dollar company, to the lows of shrinking down her 'dream' team.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2024

In this episode, Luvvie shares her personal journey—from being a 'failed' doctor to accidental entrepreneur—and reflects on the highs and lows of starting and running her business. She discusses the importance of community, the struggles of building a sustainable business, and how her outlook on entrepreneurship evolved over time. This season promises deep dives into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, featuring interviews with respected business owners and exploring topics like mental health in business leadership, building resilient teams, and operating with an abundance mindset despite financial uncertainties.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2024

In this episode, Luvvie shares her personal journey—from being a 'failed' doctor to accidental entrepreneur—and reflects on the highs and lows of starting and running her business. She discusses the importance of community, the struggles of building a sustainable business, and how her outlook on entrepreneurship evolved over time. This season promises deep dives into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, featuring interviews with respected business owners and exploring topics like mental health in business leadership, building resilient teams, and operating with an abundance mindset despite financial uncertainties.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2024

In Season 5, Luvvie delves into the raw reality of entrepreneurship, sharing her struggles and lessons learned from running a multimillion dollar business. Joined by fellow industry leaders, she offers a candid exploration of the unseen side of business, after 2023 was her toughest year running her company. Tune in on your favorite platform to catch every upcoming episode!

Transcribed - Published: 26 April 2024

Today, Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess is out in the world. In this episode, Luvvie discusses the idea of returning to one's true self, specifically the pure and hopeful version of oneself from childhood. She shares how this children’s book helped her reconnect with her younger self, and how writing the book has helped her inner child heal and learn to give herself grace and self-compassion.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2023

Today, Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess is out in the world. In this episode, Luvvie discusses the idea of returning to one's true self, specifically the pure and hopeful version of oneself from childhood. She shares how this children’s book helped her reconnect with her younger self, and how writing the book has helped her inner child heal and learn to give herself grace and self-compassion.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2023

Luvvie is joined by Joey Spiotto, her collaborator for LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER MAKES A MESS. With artworks now being commissioned by some of Hollywood's best, how did this former Little Troublemaker once get into trouble for his illustrations? And how did he get Little Luvvie's fade just right? Find out together with your little ones. LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER MAKES A MESS is available for preorder now, and drops into the world on May 2, 2023.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2023

Luvvie is joined by Joey Spiotto, her collaborator for LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER MAKES A MESS. With artworks now being commissioned by some of Hollywood's best, how did this former Little Troublemaker once get into trouble for his illustrations? And how did he get Little Luvvie's fade just right? Find out together with your little ones. LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER MAKES A MESS is available for preorder now, and drops into the world on May 2, 2023.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2023

In this episode, Luvvie brings you the ABCs of Troublemaking, 26 words that are traits that every world changer should have. These affirmations are hype mantras, so feel free to listen in with your littles! LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER MAKES A MESS is available for preorder now, and drops into the world on May 2, 2023.

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2023

Luvvie's interviews one of her favorite little troublemakers: 9 year old Kylee Brown. Luvvie and Kylee talk about what adults need to do more (or less of), life lessons and even some of Kylee's favorite things about herself. Kylee then gives the best pep talk anyone needs to hear. Her biggest advice to everyone listening: "Slay forever." Listen in!

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2023

Thinking about Little Luvvie. The 5-year old me who rocked gold chains, red lipstick and ruffles on her birthday and told people exactly what she wanted. The kid whose favorite phrase was “that’s not fair!” The tiny rebel who would get in trouble for her mouth, and was willing to as long as she knew it was what felt right. I wrote her a letter, of all I hope she knows and remembers.

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2023

RISING TROUBLEMAKER: A Fear-Fighter Manual for Teens is out in the world! And today on the podcast, Luvvie is sharing a sneak peek of the audiobook version she narrated. Listen to this episode featuring an excerpt from Chapter 8: Get Your Money, and make sure to grab a copy of RISING TROUBLEMAKER at RisingTroublemaker.com or wherever books are sold!

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2022

This week, we’ve got a special RISING TROUBLEMAKER edition of the podcast. Luvvie talks to Zaila Avant-garde - spelling bee champ, basketball phenom, and future astronaut. This conversation will inspire you to go all-in on your goals as you listen to Zaila share how curious and disciplined she is about going after her goals.

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2022

Teens today deserve to know what we didn’t get a chance to. In this episode (and in her upcoming book RISING TROUBLEMAKER), Luvvie wants to loan teens courage and share the cheat codes and lessons she wishes she learned as a teen, as well as some lessons she is still learning.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2022

In this encore episode, Luvvie is talking to Carol’s Daughter founder and president Lisa Price. After building her company from its humble beginnings in her kitchen to a multimillion-dollar beauty empire, Lisa has paved the way and created space for Black women in business. Luvvie and Lisa are talking about what you can learn from ditching a path that’s not right for you, finding your way after the storm, and trusting your instincts.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2022

In this conversation first shared as part of her book tour for Professional Troublemaker, Luvvie is talking to psychotherapist Esther Perel. Esther is a bestselling author, TED speaker and host of the hit podcasts Where Should We Begin? and How’s Work? In this conversation, Esther and Luvvie talk about how fear shows up and how it speaks to us, how troublemakers answer to fear, success and how it can inspire and potentially intimidate us, and how community makes us stronger.

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2022

In this encore episode, Luvvie is talking to Stephanie L. Young, Executive Director at When We All Vote. She and Luvvie are talking about how critical every voice is in every election, how Stephanie’s experiences growing up perfectly prepared her for her time in the Obama White House and the work she is doing now, and why it’s so important to work hard and speak up for ourselves throughout our career.

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2022

In this encore of a previously aired episode, Luvvie is talking with wellness expert, author, and Chief Impact Officer at Chopra Global - Devi Brown. Luvvie and Devi have a healing and beautiful conversation about how we can love ourselves better and find our way to our own spiritual practices.

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2022

In this encore episode, Luvvie is talking with financial educator and fellow New York Times bestselling author Tiffany Aliche. Also known as “The Budgetnista,” Tiffany is on a mission to provide women with the tools and access they need to create better lives for themselves and their families.

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2022

In a world that convicts us to be professional troublemakers, we need backup. We need a squad of friends who are there for us. In this week’s solo episode of Professional Troublemaker, Luvvie dives in on the topic of friendship and the importance of having good friends. She’s discussing all things friendship, including her definition of friendship, what that looks like in action, and how to release friendships that have come to an end without hard feelings.

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2022

Luvvie is talking with CURLBOX Founder Myleik Teele in this week’s episode. Originally recorded as part of Luvvie’s book tour for Professional Troublemaker, Luvvie and Myleik are talking all about how to overcome imposter syndrome, how to charge what you are worth, and over-deliver with excellence, and why deep friendship is such a big part of achieving greatness.

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2022

Luvvie is in convo with Nneka Ogwumike. Nneka is one of the most decorated players in the WNBA, and this conversation has her and Luvvie talking about empowerment and leadership, and pivoting from major disappointment.

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2022

This conversation with KevOnStage AKA Kevin Fredericks was a vulnerable and hilarious conversation that needed to be shared on the podcast. Originally recorded as part of the Professional Troublemaker book tour in March 2021, this convo with Kev and Luvvie has them getting real about each of their journeys, how they have each created opportunities for themselves and some of the growing pains that follow.

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2022

Write the vision. Make it plain. Dreams actualized don't just "happen." It takes intention, specificity, and hard work! It comes with intention and looking at where we’ve been and where we want to go next. As we embark on a new year, Luvvie shares in this episode why she doesn’t write resolutions and what she does instead as she shares her transformative New Year ritual.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2022

British-Nigerian comedian, producer, and author, Gina Yashere is in conversation with Luvvie about being disruptive by nature, refusing to take no for an answer, and how to kick open doors and create your own opportunities for success.

Transcribed - Published: 22 June 2021

We have another encore episode this week on Professional Troublemaker. Luvvie is in conversation with Jovian Zayne, international speaker, professional development coach, leader of the OnPurpose Movement, and overall embodiment of epicness. Jovian shares stories of using her privilege to encourage the human spirit - even at a young age - and how she used those experiences to propel her into her purpose of helping others discover, live, and work on purpose.

Transcribed - Published: 15 June 2021

This week on Professional Troublemaker, Luvvie is sharing an encore Rants & Randomness conversation with wellness maven to the stars and birth doula, Latham Thomas. Latham has literally written the books on how to be fabulous while pregnant and actualize your glow as a modern woman and mother. Her brand @GlowMaven works to democratize doula services and maternal support by spotlighting the global crisis that is Black maternal health.

Transcribed - Published: 8 June 2021

As people get vaccinated and the world starts to open up again this summer, this week on Professional Troublemaker, we are airing an encore episode where Luvvie is sharing her travel favorites. After traveling hundreds of thousands of miles for work and play, Luvvie has opinions to share on everything from her favorite travel products from packing cubes that will help you organize your luggage to noise-canceling headphones to tune out the world during your flight to a few tips to make your trip a little easier.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2021

This week on Professional Troublemaker, we've got a bit of a change-up - instead of Luvvie being the interviewer, she's the one being interviewed. Near the end of the Professional Troublemaker press tour, Luvvie did an IG Live for Elizabeth Gilbert's Onward Book Club, and it was such a fantastic conversation, we're excited to share it here.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2021

This week on Professional Troublemaker, Luvvie is in conversation with businesswoman, motivational speaker, pastor and bestselling author Sarah Jakes Roberts. Sarah is the daughter of Bishop T.D. Jakes and Mrs. Serita Jakes and pastors a dynamic community of artists and professionals in Hollywood alongside her husband, Touré Roberts. During her conversation with Luvvie, Sarah shares the adversities she’s had to overcome that eventually led her to who she is today. Her story is an example of all things coming together for good and the power of discovering your whole purpose through every experience in your life.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2021