Hidden Gems: Meet Shonda Smith of i28 & Co.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonda Smith.

Hi Shonda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been immersed in the music industry for over 15 years, and three years ago I took the leap to launch my own full-service management company, i28 & Co. Since then, we’ve built an incredible roster that includes Grammy-nominated artists, podcast hosts, professional boxers, and influencers. My love for music spans all genres—I truly can listen to it all day—and I find so much joy in connecting with people, hearing their stories, learning where they started, and understanding what they hope to achieve.

Helping people has always been a core part of who I am, which inspired me to start the nonprofit Renew Your Purpose, where women empower women. Everything I do—whether it’s managing talent, sharing stories, or giving back—stems from my passion for supporting others and helping them reach their full potential.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, it hasn’t always been easy. I’ve had artists tell me I’m “acting like their momma” because I genuinely care about their careers and hold them accountable—they’re a reflection of me, and I can’t stand by while they make decisions that could derail their path. Then there are those who aren’t willing to put in the work. It’s challenging, no doubt, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see the growth and success of the talent I manage. And the best part? When they eventually look back and say, “Dang Snow, you were right!”—that’s the moment it all feels worth it.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about i28 & Co. ?
i28 & Co. is a full-service management company that specializes in developing and guiding talent across multiple industries. We work with Grammy-nominated artists, podcast hosts, professional athletes, and influencers, helping them navigate the business side of their careers while fostering their creative growth. Our goal is to not only manage talent but to build lasting partnerships that allow our clients to thrive both professionally and personally.

What sets us apart is our hands-on, personalized approach. We hold our clients accountable, challenge them to reach their full potential, and provide the support they need to make smart decisions along the way. Unlike other management companies that may focus solely on opportunities, we focus on long-term growth, strategy, and authentic brand building.

One of the things I’m most proud of is having Grammy-nominated talent on our roster and seeing our clients perform on some of the biggest stages, including the Grammys, Hip Hop Awards, BET Awards, and so much more. Watching someone I’ve guided evolve into their best self and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding—and hearing them say, “Dang, you were right!” never gets old.

Beyond management, I’m also the founder of Renew Your Purpose, a nonprofit focused on women empowering women. This initiative embodies the values of i28 & Co.—growth, mentorship, and giving back—extending our mission beyond business and into community impact. We also have an amazing community for women called Renew Your Purpose, because essentially everyone needs connection, support, and sisterhood, especially in today’s economic climate.

What I want readers to know about our brand is that we’re not just about talent management; we’re about building relationships, cultivating potential, and creating meaningful opportunities for those we work with. We combine expertise, accountability, and heart to help our clients thrive in every aspect of their careers.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success not just by accolades or achievements, but by the growth and impact I create—both for myself and for the people I work with. For me, success is seeing the talent I manage reach their full potential, achieve their goals, and thrive both professionally and personally. It’s about building lasting relationships, guiding others to make smart decisions, and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

On a personal level, success is also about giving back and making a difference. That’s why I started Renew Your Purpose, to empower women to uplift each other. At the end of the day, I measure success by growth, fulfillment, and the positive influence I can have on the lives and careers of others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://i28co.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesnoweffect/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19cmJXmP2h/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://www.renewyourpurpose.org/