From Baltimore to Soho: The Rise of Cloudy Donuts

From Baltimore to Soho: The Rise of Cloudy Donuts

Author: iHeartPodcasts February 10, 2026 Duration: 6:23

In this engaging clip, explore the entrepreneurial journey of Derrick Falcon, a visionary who traded the fast-paced restaurant scene in Baltimore for a singular focus on vegan donuts in the heart of Soho, New York. Co-host Rashad Bilal introduces Derrick's story, highlighting the shift from running Homemade in Baltimore to launching Cloudy Donuts, a venture that blends simplicity with ambition.

Derrick shares his unique business philosophy—prioritizing a single product, in this case, donuts, for their scalability and efficiency. This strategic approach allows him to focus on quality and expansion rather than the complexities of a full restaurant menu. The clip delves into Derrick's past, detailing how he transitioned from a criminal lifestyle to establishing legitimate and impactful business operations. His goal? Significant financial growth and redefining success for Black entrepreneurs in affluent areas.

A crucial element in this transformation is Derrick’s partnership with Zoditu. Together, they masterfully introduced Cloudy Donuts to New York, using community ties and free samples to generate buzz and build a loyal customer base. The decision to situate the business in Soho, rather than in traditionally Black neighborhoods, reflects a bold strategy to position themselves in prime retail markets and challenge existing racial economic stereotypes.

Derrick’s journey is about more than making delicious vegan donuts—it's about making a statement. He aims to establish a prominent presence in commercial spaces typically dominated by others, showcasing that Black entrepreneurs can thrive in every market. This inspiring clip offers insights into Derrick's innovative mindset, highlighting his capacity to teach us about business and community impact.

Join us as we uncover how one man's vision is not only transforming the donut industry but also reshaping perceptions and creating opportunities for future generations.

**Hashtags:** #Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #VeganDonuts #Innovation #BlackExcellence #NYC #CloudyDonuts #DerrickFalcon #SohoBusiness #FoodIndustry #CommunityImpact #Scalability #BusinessStrategy

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Hosted by Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings, Earn Your Leisure pulls back the curtain on the financial mechanics that power the worlds of sports and entertainment. This isn't just about headlines; it's a deep dive into the real stories of how money moves and how deals are made. You'll hear candid conversations that dissect business models and unpack the journeys of entrepreneurs, providing a street-smart education you won't find in a standard textbook. Each episode feels like a vital seminar, blending sharp analysis of current financial trends with the relatable context of pop culture. The Earn Your Leisure podcast, from iHeartPodcasts, operates on a simple premise: true financial freedom comes from understanding the game behind the game. It’s for anyone ready to look past the glamour and learn the practical strategies that build lasting wealth. Tune in for straightforward talk that makes complex business concepts accessible, always grounded in real-world examples from the industries that shape our culture.
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