Episode 03 | Jack of All Trades: Increasing Your Value w/ David Ferguson | Dirty Roses Podcast

Get ready to elevate your mindset! Leigh LaRie and Nik B. welcome David Ferguson, Portland's living legend, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and owner of Joe Brown's Carmel Corn! In this inspiring episode, David shares invaluable insights on building multiple successful ventures, from real estate to music publishing, and what it truly means to be a "Jack of All Trades" who has has mastered them all.

Discover his unique journey of increasing personal value, the brutal truths of entrepreneurship, and how he navigates a demanding career while prioritizing self-care and finding balance. David also opens up about his philosophy on relationships, success, and the powerful lessons learned from failures and the Black community in Portland.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

• [00:00:30] Welcome David Ferguson: The "Popcorn Papi" & Portland's living legend!
• [00:02:40] Introducing David's empire: Ferguson Consulting & Publishing, Joe Brown's Carmel Corn, North Bar, Ferguson Realty, and Portland Kid Publishing.
• [00:05:00] Real Estate as the foundation: His 21-year career and how he got started.
• [00:09:00] What truly qualifies an entrepreneur: Foresight, discomfort, and risk-taking.
• [00:13:30] Dissolving businesses & navigating the corporate vs. entrepreneur path.
• [00:15:30] Building a trustworthy team: Vetting people and overlapping business/personal.
• [00:19:00] Self-care as a mogul: Meditation, exercise, and the joy of chocolate gummy bears.
• [00:21:00] Passion vs. Profit: Music as a passion, real estate as the financial driver.
• [00:23:00] Understanding Music Publishing: The 300% ownership concept.
• [00:27:00] Demanding respect: Overcoming underestimation as a seasoned professional.
• [00:29:45] Work-Life-Family Balance: Sacrifices made & finding peace in purpose.
• [00:35:00] Children as legacy & motivation: David's sons and their roles.
• [00:37:00] Dating & relationships for successful men: Navigating sincerity vs. masked interest.
• [00:40:00] The ideal partner: Someone who aligns with (or supports) his entrepreneurial lifestyle.
• [00:46:00] Childhood examples: The power of "what not to do."

Episode 02 | When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Chocolate Dope w/ Reginald Parham | Dirty Roses Podcast

Get ready for an incredibly "dope" conversation as Leigh LaRie and Nik B. welcome the man, the myth, the legend himself, Reginald "Reggie" Parham, founder of Chocolate Dope! In this raw and hilarious interview, Reggie shares his wild journey from Wisconsin to Portland, his multiple brushes with the law (including an unbelievable story about weed and police at the Idaho border!), and how life's curveballs inspired him to create a thriving clothing brand.

Discover his entrepreneurial struggles and triumphs, his unexpected health battles, and his candid (and often shocking!) takes on relationships, dating, and what men really think about "sterilization." Plus, hear why he loves Portland and how the Black community shaped his business acumen. You don't want to miss this one!

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

• [00:00:30] Welcome Reggie Parham, founder of Chocolate Dope!
• [00:01:45] Reggie's journey from Wisconsin to Portland: Life after prison & finding "the best weed."
• [00:04:30] The birth of Chocolate Dope: From rap merch to a cacao-inspired brand.
• [00:06:50] Reggie's legal troubles: A shocking Idaho border story and beating a case.
• [00:15:20] Entrepreneurial struggles: Battling diverticulitis & a brother's betrayal in the music industry.
• [00:23:45] Balancing artistry & business: Reggie's multifaceted career.
• [00:26:00] Reggie's wild life story: From New York to Florida, Dallas, Denver, and more!
• [00:31:00] Dating and relationships: Reggie's candid (and hilarious) "sterilization" theory on condoms.
• [00:44:30] Navigating life as an entrepreneur: Store robberies, growth, and Portland's unique culture.
• [00:54:00] Top qualities Reggie looks for in a partner (brace yourselves!).
• [00:57:30] Craziest thing for love? Reggie's honest take on "toxic honesty."
• [01:03:00] From prison "P-Nice" merch to Chocolate Dope: The brand's origin story.
• [01:10:00] Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: Go hard every day!
• [01:14:00] Reggie's favorite cities and unforgettable travel stories.

Connect with Reginald Parham & Chocolate Dope:

Episode 01 | Game Six: Recap Episode | Dirty Roses Podcast

What up, Rose Buddies?! Get ready for Season Six of Dirty Roses Podcast! Leigh LaRie and Nik B. are kicking things off with their famous recap episode, diving deep into all the juicy discussions and hilarious moments from last season. Hear about their personal updates, epic podcast festival adventures (taco drama included!), and a sneak peek into the amazing guests and topics lined up for Season 6.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

• [00:00:30] Welcome to Season 6: The Recap Episode!
• [00:01:30] Nik B's big relationship update and life in 2025.
• [00:05:00] Leigh LaRie's solo birthday dates and breaking her dating rules!
• [00:09:40] The infamous Afros and Audio Podcast Festival and "Taco Lady" drama.
• [00:19:00] Season 5 Rewind: Favorite episodes like "In Killing Color" (Black Serial Killers), "Healthy Co-Parenting," and "Delusional Dating."
• [00:32:00] "What Men Want" with Will: Our highest-viewed and most feedback-driven episode!
• [00:35:00] "Coloring Outside the Lines" (Non-Traditional Dating) with Queen Drissy.
• [00:39:00] "Stress, Love, & Burnout" with Dr. Cassandre Dunbar.
• [00:43:45] "Winning Together: Marriages & Business" with Dominic and Kenda Lawson.
• [00:50:30] "Barbershop Talk" with Uncle E: Exploring men's perspectives on hot topics (and muffins).
• [00:59:00] Season 6 Sneak Peek: "Reel Reactions," Black Mannequin Challenge, Skripper Chronicles Part 2, David Ferguson of Joe Brown's Carmel Corn, Power & Partnership with Cool Nutz & Kilaa.
• [01:14:00] Listener Letters: Advice on marriage, first-time experiences, and friend drama (submit yours!).
• [01:19:00] "When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Chocolate Dope" with Reggie.
• [01:22:00] "Off With His Head: Life After Queens Court" with Zach Bayer from Peacock's "Queen's Court."
• [01:29:00] "Beyond the Influence" with Celebrity Barber Art Williams of Influential Grooming Lounge.
• [01:35:00] Meet Our Team: Labs Media, Kenny X. Hamlett (Producer & Editor).
• [01:39:00] Season 6 Sponsors & Product Highlights: Scent 2 Be Candles, Nebula 9 Vodka, Pridefully Poured.

Ladies are you ready to hear what men talk about? Fellas, does this episode sound familiar? Leigh LaRie and NiK B welcome Uncle E for a candid conversation exploring the male perspective on relationships. This episode delves into common complaints men have, communication challenges, views on body enhancements, and hot topics like sex and settling down. It's a revealing look at what men discuss behind closed doors.

Find Our Guest:

• Uncle E
  • IG: @Uncle_E12
  • Facebook: Eric Cheatham
  • IG: @WineOnTheWaterBaltimore

Sponsors:

Dirty Roses Podcast is grateful for the support of Poetic Justice Foundation. This organization helps entrepreneurs build successful businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community. They believe in the power of collective action to overcome challenges and create positive change. Learn more at www.ThePoeticJusticeFoundation.org or on Instagram @PoeticJusticeFoundation.

Product/Brand Promotion:

Looking to level up your life skills? Check out "Life Skills for Teens and Young Adults: What You Should Know and Learn by 25" by Christopher Kendrix. This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial literacy to relationship building, and is a must-read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood. Grab your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/h8scisz

Don't miss a single juicy moment!

• Subscribe: Head over to DirtyRosesPodcast.com and subscribe on all your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and more!
• Connect: Follow us on social media @DirtyRosesPodcast, @LeighLaRie, and @NikB_NikB for behind-the-scenes fun, bonus content, and to join the conversation.
• Share your story: Got a crazy dating story, a burning question, or just want to share your thoughts? Submit your letter to DirtyRosesLetters@gmail.com.
• Collaborate with us: Want to feature your product or service on our platform? Interested in sponsoring an episode or the entire season? Contact us directly at DirtyRosesPodcast@gmail.com.

Rate and Review: Loving the show? Show us some love by leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. We appreciate your feedback!

Get ready, Rose Buddies! Leigh LaRie and NiK B welcome Dominic & Kenda Lawson to explore the dynamics of "winning together" in marriage and business. Dominic & Kenda share insights on balancing individual projects and collaborative work, effective communication strategies, and their journey of building a life and business together. The episode delves into their personal and professional relationship, how they navigate challenges, and the secrets to their success.

Find Our Guest:

• Dominic Lawson
  • IG: @the_real_dominiclawson
• Kenda Lawson
  • IG: @eatteachcreate

Sponsors:

Dirty Roses Podcast is grateful for the support of Poetic Justice Foundation. This organization helps entrepreneurs build successful businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community. They believe in the power of collective action to overcome challenges and create positive change. Learn more at www.ThePoeticJusticeFoundation.org or on Instagram @PoeticJusticeFoundation.

Product/Brand Promotion:

Looking to level up your life skills? Check out "Life Skills for Teens and Young Adults: What You Should Know and Learn by 25" by Christopher Kendrix. This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial literacy to relationship building, and is a must-read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood. Grab your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/h8scisz

Don't miss a single juicy moment!

• Subscribe: Head over to DirtyRosesPodcast.com and subscribe on all your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and more!
• Connect: Follow us on social media @DirtyRosesPodcast, @LeighLaRie, and @NikB_NikB for behind-the-scenes fun, bonus content, and to join the conversation.
• Share your story: Got a crazy dating story, a burning question, or just want to share your thoughts? Submit your letter to DirtyRosesLetters@gmail.com.
• Collaborate with us: Want to feature your product or service on our platform? Interested in sponsoring an episode or the entire season? Contact us directly at DirtyRosesPodcast@gmail.com.
• Rate and Review: Loving the show? Show us some love by leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. We appreciate your feedback!

Hold onto your roses, Rose Buddies! Leigh LaRie and Nic B welcome Cassondre Dunbar of Be Well Sis podcast to explore the intricate connections between stress, burnout, and relationships. Cassondre shares insights on identifying burnout, the impact on intimacy, and strategies for navigating these challenges in romantic, platonic, and familial relationships. The episode delves into communication, self-care, and the importance of recognizing the signs of burnout in oneself and others.

Find Our Guest:

Cassondre Dunbar
IG: @bewellsis_podcast

Sponsors:

Dirty Roses Podcast is grateful for the support of Poetic Justice Foundation. This organization helps entrepreneurs build successful businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community. They believe in the power of collective action to overcome challenges and create positive change. Learn more at www.ThePoeticJusticeFoundation.org or on Instagram @PoeticJusticeFoundation.

Product/Brand Promotion:

Looking to add some amazing scents to your life? Check out Scent2BeCandles. Their website is Scent2BeCandles.com. They have candles, wax melts, and are working on carpet fresheners, air sprays, incense, diffusers, and car scents.

Looking to level up your life skills? Check out "Life Skills for Teens and Young Adults: What You Should Know and Learn by 25" by Christopher Kendrix. This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial literacy to relationship building, and is a must-read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood. Grab your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/h8scisz

Don't miss a single juicy moment!

• Subscribe: Head over to DirtyRosesPodcast.com and subscribe on all your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and more!
• Connect: Follow us on social media @DirtyRosesPodcast, @LeighLaRie, and @NikB_NikB for behind-the-scenes fun, bonus content, and to join the conversation.
• Share your story: Got a crazy dating story, a burning question, or just want to share your thoughts? Submit your letter to DirtyRosesLetters@gmail.com.
• Collaborate with us: Want to feature your product or service on our platform? Interested in sponsoring an episode or the entire season? Contact us directly at DirtyRosesPodcast@gmail.com.
• Rate and Review: Loving the show? Show us some love by leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. We appreciate your feedback!

Hold onto your roses, Rose Buddies! Leigh LaRie and Nik B are joined by the captivating Queen Drissy to explore the world of non-traditional dating. Queen Drissy shares her journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and open-mindedness in relationships. Hear about her experiences with BDSM, alternative lifestyles, and the importance of communication and consent. From BDSM contracts to electro play and reconciling spirituality with alternative lifestyles, this episode dives deep into "coloring outside the lines."

Find Our Guest:
Queen Drissy
IG: @QueenDrissy

Sponsors:
Dirty Roses Podcast is grateful for the support of Poetic Justice Foundation. This organization helps entrepreneurs build successful businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community. They believe in the power of collective action to overcome challenges and create positive change. Learn more at www.ThePoeticJusticeFoundation.org or on Instagram @PoeticJusticeFoundation.

Product/Brand Promotion:
Looking to support black owned businesses? Check out Portland Love Clothing, a black-owned clothing brand based in Portland. This brand was highlighted as a black owned small business, and the hosts displayed the clothing on the show. Find them on Instagram: @PortlandLoveClothingXOXO.

Looking to level up your life skills? Check out "Life Skills for Teens and Young Adults: What You Should Know and Learn by 25" by Christopher Kendrix. This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial literacy to relationship building, and is a must-read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood. Grab your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/h8scisz

Don't miss a single juicy moment!

• Subscribe: Head over to DirtyRosesPodcast.com and subscribe on all your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and more!
• Connect: Follow us on social media @DirtyRosesPodcast, @LeighLaRie, and @NikB_NikB for behind-the-scenes fun, bonus content, and to join the conversation.
• Share your story: Got a crazy dating story, a burning question, or just want to share your thoughts? Submit your letter to DirtyRosesLetters@gmail.com.
• Collaborate with us: Want to feature your product or service on our platform? Interested in sponsoring an episode or the entire season? Contact us directly at DirtyRosesPodcast@gmail.com.
• Rate and Review: Loving the show? Show us some love by leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. We appreciate your feedback!

Leigh LaRie and Nik B. tackle the age-old question: What do men want? They dive deep into the complexities of communication, gender roles, and emotional needs in relationships. Will Rodgers, a lifelong friend of Nik B.'s, shares his insights on vulnerability, respect, and the importance of creating a peaceful partnership. This episode challenges assumptions and encourages honest communication between men and women.

Sponsors:

Dirty Roses Podcast is grateful for the support of Poetic Justice Foundation. This organization helps entrepreneurs build successful businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and community. They believe in the power of collective action to overcome challenges and create positive change. Learn more at www.ThePoeticJusticeFoundation.org or on Instagram @PoeticJusticeFoundation.

Product/Brand Promotion:

Looking to level up your life skills? Check out "Life Skills for Teens and Young Adults: What You Should Know and Learn by 25" by Christopher Kendrix. This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial literacy to relationship building, and is a must-read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood. Grab your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/h8scisz

Don't miss a single juicy moment!

• Subscribe: Head over to DirtyRosesPodcast.com and subscribe on all your favorite podcast platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and more!
• Connect: Follow us on social media @DirtyRosesPodcast, @LeighLaRie, and @NikB_NikB for behind-the-scenes fun, bonus content, and to join the conversation.
• Share your story: Got a crazy dating story, a burning question, or just want to share your thoughts? Submit your letter to DirtyRosesLetters@gmail.com.
• Collaborate with us: Want to feature your product or service on our platform? Interested in sponsoring an episode or the entire season? Contact us directly at DirtyRosesPodcast@gmail.com.

Rate and Review: Loving the show? Show us some love by leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. We appreciate your feedback!