Ep. 47- “The ABCs of Partnerships through Access & Business Certifications” with  Marc Winston, Senior Director at National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® (NMSDC®) and the President and CEO of Marc Winston Enterprises

In this episode of the Product & Packaging Powerhouse, host Megan Young Gamble reconnects with longtime friend Marc Winston, Senior Director at National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® (NMSDC®)and the President and CEO of Marc Winston Enterprises. Marc and Megan reminisce on growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, along with Marc’s journey from early sports and educational influences, a robust corporate career in logistics, supply chain and supplier diversity at Walmart. The conversation dives deep into the value of supplier diversity, the power of certifications (like NMSDC and WBENC), and the importance of intentional networking and relationship-building for brands and businesses seeking corporate partnerships. Marc emphasizes how certifications provide access, not guarantees,  sharing actionable advice on leveraging networks, staying resilient, and scaling businesses. The episode wraps with rapid-fire fun facts and practical takeaways for entrepreneurs looking to grow through inclusion and strategic connections.

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[Powerhouse Guest Marc’s LINKS]

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marc-winston-774179151 
• Email Address: mwinstonenterprises@yahoo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_m.winston/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/m.winston.8?mibextid=ZbWKwL
• National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.® (NMSDC®) : https://nmsdc.org/

Episode Quotes:.

• Certification is like a passport,  it opens the door, but you still have to take the trip.
• Everybody needs someone advocating for them in rooms they’re not in.
• A fast no isn’t failure. Sometimes it’s the first step toward a slow yes.
• Supplier diversity is about access, advocacy, and advancement, not handouts.
• Your why gets you in the room. Your execution keeps you there.
• The salt from rejection today can turn into sugar tomorrow, if you put in the work.
• Resilience in sports taught me resilience in business, you adjust, you pivot, and you keep playing.
• Success in supplier diversity isn’t about luck. It’s about showing up, following up, and staying ready.