In a powerful and candid episode of the Jay Hill Podcast, Pinky Cole, the brilliant founder behind the vegan sensation Slutty Vegan, opens up about her remarkable journey from hustling in Baltimore to building a multi-million dollar empire. Known for her unapologetically bold approach to food and business, Pinky shares the lessons that shaped her career, her unwavering resilience, and her dedication to keeping her vision—and her legacy—authentic.
Protecting Legacy and Reputation
One of the key takeaways from the conversation was Pinky’s focus on preserving her name, image, and brand. She explains that, in the world of entrepreneurship, a strong name and image are essential to success. “A good name should always align with a strong image,” Pinky says. “Together, they build a brand that stands the test of time.” She emphasizes how appearances can be misleading, stressing that people shouldn’t judge others solely on surface-level observations but instead look deeper into their true potential.
The Hustle That Started It All
Before Slutty Vegan took off, Pinky was no stranger to the grind. Her entrepreneurial spirit first manifested in her teenage years as a party promoter, where she would organize and rent venues for large events, long before the party scene became a cultural phenomenon. It’s this hustle and determination that propelled her through challenges in the food industry. She credits her upbringing in Baltimore as the foundation of her resilience, recalling how she faced doubt but refused to let it hinder her path.
Balance in Business and Family
Pinky also opens up about how she balances her roles as a boss and a mother, something many entrepreneurs struggle with. She reflects on her own upbringing, where her mother, though often busy with work, taught her valuable lessons about independence, maturity, and responsibility. Now, as a mother herself, Pinky is determined to be present for her children while continuing to build her business empire. “I encourage independence in my kids, but I make sure they avoid burnout,” she shares.
The Mindset of a Trailblazer
Despite her incredible success, Pinky admits that she’s always striving for more. “I haven’t made it yet,” she confesses, revealing that even during vacations, she is continuously working on new ideas to grow both mentally and professionally. Her drive for constant improvement is a hallmark of her success and is evident in every venture she pursues.
The Power of Reputation
Throughout the conversation, Pinky also discusses the challenges of being a Black woman in business, particularly the media’s treatment and the legal battles she’s faced. She underscores the importance of reputation, noting how figures like Tupac and Biggie built their legacy not just through their work, but by shaping their public image. “Your name is everything. Your image is everything,” she asserts, emphasizing how both can dramatically impact one’s lasting legacy.
Pinky Cole’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success doesn’t come without hard work, resilience, and a deep commitment to staying true to yourself. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply someone chasing your dreams, her insights are a blueprint for anyone seeking to build a legacy while remaining authentic.
For more raw advice, inspirational stories, and the behind-the-scenes details of Pinky’s journey, listen to the full episode of the Jay Hill Podcast.
