#073 - In this heartfelt and insightful episode, we sit down with Maisha Pulliam, founder of Skin by Maisha, a thriving skincare studio in Oakland’s Laurel District. Maisha shares her journey from mixing homemade skincare concoctions as a child to building a 17-year-old brick-and-mortar business that prioritizes health, healing, and belonging.

Maisha opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the pivot that saved her business during the pandemic, and the deep pride she feels serving the Oakland community. Whether you're into skincare, building a business, or just love good storytelling—you won’t want to miss this one.

Skin by Maisha is a holistic skincare studio in Oakland offering customized facials and skin treatments for adults, teens, and even pre-teens. Maisha’s team helps clients with acne, aging, discoloration, rosacea, eczema, and more—while fostering confidence and self-love.

“I tell people all the time: I don’t care how many things you try—keep trying until you find your purpose. Keep going until you hone in on your gift.”

#072 - In this episode of the Townrootz Podcast, we sit down with Tomika Jones, founder and CEO of DRVA, a mobile roadside assistance company that’s making help on the road faster, safer, and more accessible. What started as a frustrating personal experience became the spark for a business that empowers drivers and service providers alike.

DRVA is a mobile roadside assistance platform offering on-demand help for drivers experiencing flat tires, battery issues, lockouts, and more. Through its app, users connect directly with nearby, verified service providers, bringing speed, transparency, and peace of mind to roadside support.

Tomika shares how she turned a moment of vulnerability into a thriving tech-enabled solution that connects drivers with trusted roadside help. After being stranded on the side of the road for hours waiting for help, Tomika knew there had to be a better way. That moment became her mission.

“I didn’t want anyone else to feel the fear and frustration I felt that day. That’s where DRVA was born.”

Tomika’s shares how the best businesses often come from deeply personal pain points—and how innovation can be rooted in empathy.

#071 - In this dynamic episode of the Townrootz Podcast, hosts Anthony Wilson and Vincent Hayes sit down with Myeshia Jefferson, a powerhouse entrepreneur, marketing concierge, and specialist in medical-focused nail care. From her bestselling book to her innovative ventures into the metaverse, Myeshia shares actionable strategies and personal insights on how entrepreneurs can build solid foundations, find their niche, and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of small business.

She covers:

• Why niching down is the key to leveling up
• How localizing your brand builds trust
• Avoiding costly mistakes in marketing
• The power of word-of-mouth and authenticity
• Preparing underserved communities for Web 3.0

Myeshia’s journey into the world of health and beauty wasn’t just about passion—it was deeply personal. After witnessing the tragic loss of her grandfather due to complications from a diabetic foot wound, she became determined to provide specialized care for those with medical needs. This purpose-driven mission eventually led her to become a certified medical manicurist, educator, and business consultant.

“My grandfather died… he was a diabetic and had a cut on the bottom of his foot he didn’t feel. That experience made me realize how important proper foot care is—and how dangerous it can be without it.”

Myeshia’s journey into health, beauty, and marketing wasn’t just a career move—it was a mission to restore confidence. One of the most striking takeaways from the conversation was how she merges her deep marketing knowledge with a passion for helping others feel seen and celebrated. Whether she’s guiding a brand or advising on self-care, her approach is rooted in authenticity.