Mindset Mixer Brings Entrepreneurs Together in Newark for Collaboration & Growth

NEWARK, NJ – The warm, vibrant energy inside CarriBrew Café, a Black-owned gem in Newark’s business district, set the perfect tone for the Mindset Mixer, a gathering that brought together entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners from across the region.

Hosted this past month, the event wasn’t just about exchanging business cards or making quick introductions. It was about building connections, sparking collaborations, and sharing real-life experiences that could inspire the next chapter of each attendee’s journey.

The Mindset Mixer is the brainchild of Zollyann Howell, a 6x Amazon Bestselling Author, educator, and founder of ZAM Learning Academy. The idea began with her bestselling book, Your Mindset is Lit AF, which resonated with women across industries and geographies.

“I started receiving messages from people who connected with my story and wanted to talk about their own,” Zollyann explained. “That’s when I knew this could be bigger than a book, it could be a space for people to come together, share knowledge, and grow.”

What began as a virtual series during the pandemic has evolved into a high-energy, in-person networking and empowerment experience, attracting attendees from across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Atlanta and beyond.

Powerhouse Speakers Light Up the Room

Zayna Allen – Journalist and media personality, Zayna’s career spans appearances on Hot 97, WBLS, Cheddar News, 21Ninety, and Bold TV. She has interviewed icons including Angela Yee, Brandy Norwood, and Larenz Tate. As co-founder of the Hybrid Host Workshop and creator of Rolling With, a digital series highlighting Black and Brown creatives in the cannabis space, Zayna’s talk focused on resilience, the power of knowing your “why,” and pursuing your dreams even when you’re told “no.”

Lynn Hobson – Known as the “PR Queen,” Lynn is a Celebrity Publicist, Best-Selling Author, and founder of Money Lynn and Friends. With decades of experience representing major names in entertainment, Lynn gave attendees a candid look into what it takes to stand out in competitive industries.

“It’s not enough to be good, you have to be consistent, strategic, and authentic,” Hobson shared. “People don’t just buy your product, they buy your story.”

The Women Behind the Magic

The event was moderated by Dr. Ieshia Brown-Lumpkin, a leadership strategist and empowerment coach known for facilitating conversations that dig beneath the surface. Her thoughtful questions encouraged both speakers to share personal experiences and actionable advice.

Event production and design were led by Stay Selective Event Planning, founded by Stacia Greene. A visionary event planner and marketing strategist, Greene brought the Mindset Mixer to life with meticulous attention to detail, from the floor plan that encouraged mingling to the stylish, branded décor that reflected the Mixer’s energy. Her company specializes in creating events that are not only visually stunning but also strategically designed to meet the host’s goals. The transformation of CarriBrew Café into a vibrant hub for connection was a testament to her expertise.

A Showcase of Entrepreneurs Across Industries

Beauty & Self-Care

• Dre’s Beauty Supply – A staple for many in the beauty community, Dre’s Beauty Supply provides a wide range of hair care products, styling tools, wigs, and beauty essentials specifically tailored to meet the needs of Black consumers.

• Ambitious Beautique – More than a beauty store, Ambitious Beautique is a brand centered on self-love and personal empowerment. Offering cosmetics, skin care products, and beauty services, they encourage customers to embrace their uniqueness and walk boldly in their authenticity.

Wellness & Personal Development

• Flo Fusion Wellness – A multidimensional wellness brand, Flo Fusion Wellness is dedicated to helping individuals optimize their movement, recovery, and overall well-being. Founded in honor of Florence—affectionately known as “Flo”—who passed from sarcoma cancer in 2020, the brand is a living tribute to celebrating life, cherishing health, and supporting loved ones through every challenge. Offering services such as assisted stretching, mindfulness coaching, and holistic self-care practices, Flo Fusion Wellness provides personalized support that helps clients move freely, reduce stress, and enhance their performance both in life and in the gym.
• Petals of a Woman – Focused on women’s emotional healing, self-love, and empowerment through events, resources, and community programs.
• Bodied Parlor – Owned and operated by Quaniece Shearin, who also served as one of the event hosts, Bodied Parlor is a beauty brand dedicated to enhancing confidence through expert body contouring and wellness services. Known for creating a welcoming, empowering client experience, Quaniece brings the same energy to her role as a community leader—helping make the Mindset Mixer an uplifting and engaging space for all attendees.

Food & Beverage

• Lux Lemonade – Crafting gourmet lemonade flavors that turn a simple drink into an experience.
• Thirsty AF Bar – A mobile beverage service offering creative cocktails and non-alcoholic options for any occasion.
• The Only Remedy – The Only Remedy is a natural juicing company committed to promoting wellness through fresh, cold-pressed juices made with purpose. Every bottle is crafted using raw, nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, free of additives, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. We believe that nature holds the key to healing, energy, and balance, and we’re passionate about making healthy living accessible, enjoyable, and flavorful. Whether you’re on a detox journey, boosting your immune system, or simply nourishing your body, The Only Remedy offers a natural solution because true wellness starts within.

Creative Brands/ Venues

Myx Lokal – A creative event space based in Avenel, NJ, Myx Lokal is designed to be a hub for community-driven events, workshops, and experiences that celebrate creativity and entrepreneurship. The venue provides a versatile, welcoming environment for everything from networking mixers to pop-up markets, offering a platform where local talent, small businesses, and innovators can connect with their audiences. By fostering collaboration and supporting diverse voices, Myx Lokal has become a go-to destination for those looking to build community while showcasing their passions.

CarriBrew Café – A Black-owned coffee shop that blends culture, community, and craft. Known for its cozy atmosphere, Caribbean-inspired flavors, and commitment to showcasing local talent, CarriBrew is more than a place to grab a drink—it’s a hub for networking, creativity, and cultural exchange.

Why Newark?

Although the entrepreneurs came from multiple states, hosting the event in Newark was intentional.

“Newark has a deep history of entrepreneurship, especially in the Black community,” Zollyann said. “By hosting here, we honor that legacy and contribute to the city’s growing business ecosystem.”

Throughout the evening, conversations flowed, attendees exchanged resources, shared challenges, and even began mapping out future collaborations.

“This is about building tables, not waiting for a seat,” Zollyann said. “When we come together, we don’t just grow our businesses, we grow ourselves.”

For many, the Mindset Mixer was more than a single event. It was the start of ongoing partnerships and friendships.