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Ep. 38 Navigating Challenges and Change: Alisha L. Gordon’s Nonprofit and Entrepreneurial Journey
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Welcome to the DO GOOD X podcast, your go-to resource for insights and inspiration on building impactful businesses! In this episode, hosts Kimberly Daniel and Stephen Lewis are joined by Alisha L. Gordon—an awarded teacher, faith leader, social strategist, and entrepreneur. As the Founder and Executive Director of The Current Project, Alisha is working to close the social and economic gaps for black single mothers. Through her work, she has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, tackled systemic stereotypes, and shared powerful stories that inspire change. Alisha discusses her work with black single mothers, overcoming obstacles, the importance of intentional breaks, and the tools entrepreneurs need to build sustainable and impactful businesses.
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:00) Introduction
(04:48) As a black single mother, Alisha Gordon's journey inspired her to launch The Current Project
(08:57) Alisha reveals the biggest obstacle she has had to overcome
(18:43) How to know when it’s time to take a break from your business as an entrepreneur
(26:31) Tools entrepreneurs will find instructive for their business
(31:30) Raising funds by sharing stories and collecting surveys from black single mothers
(43:50) Alisha answers questions “off the cuff”
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Alisha Gordon’s nonprofit, founded in 2020 during the pandemic, has thrived by reshaping stereotypes about black single mothers and sharing their stories. Despite the success, the organization has faced challenges in confronting public narratives and navigating personal grief, highlighting the dual burden black women leaders often bear while driving change.
- Many successful black and brown women entrepreneurs choose to close their businesses and nonprofits, not because they lack success, but because they prioritize personal capacity. Factors like grief, health challenges, and shifting family dynamics highlight their evolving priorities and the need for self-preservation in leadership.
- A well-curated board of advisors is essential for entrepreneurs, helping to fill expertise gaps and stay focused on their mission. While early-stage leaders may rely on familiar networks, intentionally selecting advisors aligned with strategic needs can drive leadership development and long-term success.
RESOURCES:
The Current Project - Instagram
Essence Feature - Black Single Moms
GUEST BIOGRAPHY:
Alisha L. Gordon is an awardee teacher, faith leader, social strategist, and the founder and executive director of The Current Project. This nonprofit closes social and economic gaps for Black single mothers through strategic programming and policy. Under her leadership, the organization has raised over $700,000 and gained support from major partners like The Wayfarer Foundation and The New York Liberty. Previously, Alisha led programs at Riverside Church and worked on political campaigns, including Michael Bloomberg’s 2020 presidential run. A Decatur, Georgia native and Spelman College and Emory University graduate, she has received numerous awards and lives in Harlem with her dog, Cookie.
Chapters
1. The Inspiration Behind Alisha’s Work (00:00:00)
2. The Power of Relationships in Fundraising (00:12:30)
3. Using Storytelling to Connect with Donors (00:23:15)
4. Data as a Tool for Policy Change (00:36:40)
5. Why Local Policy Matters More Than Federal Change (00:41:20)
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