From Chains to Links

About 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 (http://blackinnovationalliance.com), 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.

Publisher

Kelly Burton & Ifeoma Ike

Category

business · business · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

3 Jun 2024

Latest episode

26 Mar 2025

Latest episodes

27 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Mar 2025

   The Power Of Black Innovation: What We've Learned & Where We're Going Next...

   In this season finale of From Chains to Links (https://chainstolinks.com/), hosts Ifeoma Ike (https://www.ifeomasinachi.com/) and Kelly Burton (https://www.iamkellyburton.com/) 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, they explore how innovation isn’t just about tech but also about people, culture, and the stories we share. This isn’t goodbye—it’s just the beginning of something even bigger!

2. 

   12 Mar 2025

   10 Things We Love About Black People | Culture, Joy, Legacy

   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 (https://www.ifeomasinachi.com/) and Kelly Burton (https://www.iamkellyburton.com/) as they talk about the deep roots of our music, the art of the clapback, and why dancing anywhere is simply non-negotiable. If you love us, you’ll love this episode. And if you don’t? We got plenty of clapbacks for you. Tune in for a necessary conversation on Black excellence, resilience, and joy.

3. 

   5 Mar 2025

   Meritocracy Is A Lie | The Truth About Black Excellence

   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 (https://www.ifeomasinachi.com/) and Kelly Burton (https://www.iamkellyburton.com/) break down the systemic forces at play and ask the critical question: If Black people have always led the movement, who will lead the next rebellion?

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

46,499

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

15 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 53 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

55

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

51