If Only I had Learned The Power Of Networking Sooner artwork
If Only

If Only I had Learned The Power Of Networking Sooner

  • E55
  • 28:29
  • May 29th 2025

Popping Bottles & Breaking Barriers – A Black Woman's Rise in the Champagne Industry

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Marvina Robinson, the visionary founder and CEO of B. Stuyvesant Champagne, who shares her remarkable journey from a 20-year career in finance on Wall Street to breaking barriers in the traditionally exclusive champagne industry. Marvina opens up about the challenges of transitioning into entrepreneurship and reveals a powerful “If Only” moment: If only I had learned the power of networking sooner. Her late-blooming realization about the importance of networking transformed her path and offers invaluable insight for any entrepreneur.

With a background in biology and statistics from Norfolk State, Columbia, and Cornell, Marvina combines scientific precision with bold innovation in crafting her luxury brand. From hosting elegant tasting events at the Brooklyn Navy Yard to championing inclusivity in the wine world, her story is one of courage, creativity, and relentless determination.

"I don't really believe in sitting in negative spaces. If something fails for me, I will get over it quickly and then find a plan to figure it out." – Marvina Robinson

In this episode, you will learn:

* How to navigate the shift from corporate life to entrepreneurship

* Why networking is a game-changer for business success

* Tips for building a luxury brand rooted in authenticity and tradition

* Lessons from Marvina’s personal and professional evolution

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit the B. Stuyvesant Champagne website at https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/ to make reservations for a tasting at the Brooklyn Navy Yard tasting room.

• For updates on events, new releases, and pop-up locations, then follow B. Stuyvesant Champagne on:

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/stuyvesantchampagne/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/STUYVESANTCHAMPAGNE/

• Purchase B. Stuyvesant Champagne directly from their website for direct-to-consumer shipping- https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/shop

• Inquire about memberships for exclusive access to a variety of champagnes and the new luxury tasting room https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/loyalty

• Attend the upcoming pop-up event at Hotel Zena in Washington, D.C., on June 14th for a special rose champagne experience. Link to Hotel Zena’s event calendar here https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/zena/activities/experiences

If Only

During each episode Brenda will explore the “If Only’s” stopping women from having a life they love.  

What is your If Only? Perhaps it is- If Only my boss respected me more or maybe it is If Only my spouse did more around the house and with the kids, or maybe it is If Only my kids listened to me better…….then I would be happier and more successful… 

Whatever it is for you, you will hear from Brenda and her guests who will share their personal successes in breaking through their If Only’s to create a life they love!