From Chains to Links

From Chains to Links

The world moves because of Black innovation and creativity. But in a world where innovation has been sold as a narrative of the elite, the white and the male, how do we reclaim the truth about innovation, technology and access to wealth? How do we design spaces where Black people live out their birthright as innovators? When will Black creativity work for Black beyond survival and scarcity? And against us, to divide us or solely for the benefit of systems not designed to respect or protect us? What are the cultural and indigenous practices, rituals and inventions that will transform our collective struggle into mass abundance? From Chains to Links is a groundbreaking innovation podcast uniting the vast experiences of Black thought leaders who dream abundantly and use their space to create more wealth pathways for Black entrepreneurs. This podcast intentionally acknowledges Black people as the drivers of economic and social change—building upon their complex relationship with capitalism, political movements and the advancements of technology, social media and the digital economy. A true experimentation of truth-telling and fellowship, From Chains to Links will inspire you, make you laugh and make you cry, while challenging you to think bigger, find your tribe and take your rightful place in the broader movement for Black liberation. This podcast goes beyond traditional entrepreneurial topics by exploring the intersection of culture, identity, and business. Hosted by entrepreneurs, social scientists and activists Dr. Kelly Burton and Ifeoma Ike, Esq., each episode of From Chains to Links features vulnerable and engaging conversations with prominent Black entrepreneurs, luminaries and artists across industries who see the power in sharing journeys, hacks and data to build a safer and more equitable business landscape. A living room parlor vibe, no topic is off-limits: from the definition of success, to impact of trauma, to the role of movements in a digital world. Space is given for the diversity of thought which has always existed in Black communities. A product of the Black Innovation Alliance, From Chains to Links is a bridge to valuable resources for aspiring Black entrepreneurs and provides practical advice, strategies and actionable insights to help listeners navigate the complexities of starting and scaling their own businesses. Don’t miss out on the provocative space providing tools, innovation and joy through the greatest invention of all: Black love. Join us as we celebrate the resiliency, creativity, and innovation of Black entrepreneurs, and contribute to a more inclusive and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Episodes

March 26, 2025 21 mins

In this season finale of From Chains to Links, hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton reflect on the incredible journey of the podcast, celebrating its role in elevating Black innovation, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. They dive into the impact of storytelling, mental wellness in business, and the power of collective economics - while hinting at exciting new projects on the horizon. With humor, honesty, and deep insights, ...

Mark as Played

In this unapologetically Black and joyful episode, we break down ten things we love about Black people. From the way we hook up our food, to the rhythm in our DNA, the joy in our laughter, and the power in our resistance—this is a celebration of culture, legacy, and truth. Join hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton as they talk about the deep roots of our music, the art of the clapback, and why dancing anywhere is simply non-negotiable...

Mark as Played

As DEI programs are stripped away and historical narratives are rewritten, what’s really happening to Black communities? In this episode, we dive into the quiet yet deliberate erasure of Blackness in America, the myth of meritocracy, and why economic and political solidarity are more crucial than ever. Hosts Our hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton break down the systemic forces at play and ask the critical question: If Black people h...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, we explore the intersections of faith, spirituality, and black innovation. Our hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton engage in a deep conversation on redefining spiritual practices, embracing the divine feminine, and how these practices can inspire black entrepreneurship and generational wealth creation. From ancestral connections through music to personal reflections on faith beyond the church,...

Mark as Played

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about success—it’s about failing, learning, and pivoting. In this episode, Ifeoma Ike and Dr. Kelly Burton get real about the challenges of building a business, from how the wrong team can cost you everything to the financial mistakes and tax pitfalls that trip up entrepreneurs. They break down the emotional toll of entrepreneurship while sharing the hard-earned lessons no one talks about. If you're thin...

Mark as Played

What happens when Black creatives lose yet another digital platform? In this episode, Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton explore the TikTok ban, the fight for Black ownership in the digital realm, and the larger conversation about who truly profits from our culture. From the déjà vu of the Vine shutdown to the systemic barriers that prevent us from building our own, we delve into the realities of digital homelessness, the power of Black c...

Mark as Played

In this vibrant and thought-provoking episode of From Chains to Links, co-hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton dive into a lively discussion on the top 10 ways entrepreneurs, creators, and visionaries can thrive in 2025. From prioritizing wellness and renewing passports to cultivating meaningful connections and embracing creativity, Ifeoma and Kelly serve up wisdom, humor, and practical advice to help listeners elevate their lives and...

Mark as Played

In this candid and thought-provoking episode of From Chains to Links, hosts Ifeoma Ike and Kelly Burton explore the interconnected themes of rest, reset, and the evolving fight for equity in a multicultural democracy. Through heartfelt reflections, sharp humor, and powerful insights, they tackle everything from the historical contributions of Black communities to modern movements for justice to the importance of prioritizing rest a...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, Ify sits down with true renaissance man Luke Cooper—investor, successful startup founder, lawyer, professor, and more. Luke shares the big lessons he’s learned throughout his career, highlights the immense opportunity in investing in Black founders, and u...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, policy expert and social justice warrior David Johns joins Ify and Kelly to explore the intersection of queer rights and social justice. A family conversation, the squad highlights real dynamics impacting queer leaders, youth and organizers. The conversat...

Mark as Played
December 11, 2024 38 mins

In this raucous episode of From Chains to Links, hosts Ify and Kelly are joined by technologist and long-time social justice advocate Jamaa Bickley-King who rips the bandaid off and shares his thoughts on the role media has played in our democracy, the limitations of artificial intelligence, and...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, entrepreneurs Rahama Wright and Danielle Toussaint bring valuable insights on what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur in today’s political climate. An empowering dialogue with be...

Mark as Played

In this heartfelt episode of From Chains to Links, Kelly Burton and Ifeoma Ike are joined by Erin Horne McKinney and Cici Battle to tackle the unique challenges of being Black women founders and entrepreneurs. A raw, honest reflection into the costs of leadership, each guest shares tips on how to prioritize self-care, establish boundaries, and put oneself first while still standing in the gap for others. This vulnerable conversatio...

Mark as Played

How do we ensure Black people don’t miss out on yet another industrial revolution? In this episode of From Chains to Links, technologist and startup advisor Tyrome ‘Ty’ Smith drops invaluable insights on what startup founders need to understand today for success tomorrow. He breaks down the biggest mistakes founders often make and highlights the urgent needs and pressing opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and technologists. Tune...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, Ify sits down with innovation support leaders LaKisha Greenwade, Alisha Gordon, and Dr. LaTanya White, who each invests in ensuring entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools to thrive.. Together, they explore how we need to reimagine wealth creation, see the wealth is rest and village, and unpack the obstacles standing in our way. It's a ri...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, we welcome pioneering startup founder Tiffany Norwood and Jaret Riddick, a research engineer with over 20 years in the defense industry. Together, we dive into the evolution of Black people in tech, the relationship between racial equality and national security, and the vital role of imagination and dreaming in ensuring that Black people fu...

Mark as Played

In this episode of From Chains to Links, we sit down with Katrina Gamble, a political and movement strategist and social scientist, to explore what research reveals about how Black people view the state of our political systems. We explore what Black voters want and need, how to keep political momentum going after elections, and the critical importance of investing in movements beyond just "get out the vote" efforts. It's a powerfu...

Mark as Played

Join Kelly and Ify in a lively, fast-paced episode of From Chains to Links, where they go back and forth with podcast regular political commentator and NYT bestseller Bakari Sellers. The trio dives into everything, from the crucial difference between pepper sauce and hot sauce to serious discussions about the U.S. Supreme Court, elections, and civil rights. Along the way, they tease, laugh, and unapologetically talk shit. It's a pe...

Mark as Played

Bonus episode featuring From Chains to Links' Hosts Kelly Burton and Ifeoma Ike, with nuggets around the unique experience of being Black, creative and an entrepreneur. Hosts invite the audience to think about the "whole Black entrepreneur" and how this podcast seeks to spark new social conditions where we can fully live out innovation--from ideation to failure to repair to growth. And do so with loving networks and circles of oppo...

Mark as Played

The Civil Rights Movement is not the only Black movement, but it stands out with distinction for many reasons, including the way activism was more visible, thanks advancements in television usage and access which made the realities of segregation and brutality towards Black lives hard to ignore. Movements have proven to be both inspiring and have yielded some gains, but debates around how effective they are can prove to be emotiona...

Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

    Stuff You Should Know

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

    The Joe Rogan Experience

    The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.