Making History of the Black Experience

The mission of BROWNBAYLOR, a creative strategy and marketing agency, is as purposeful as it is noble: To make history by curating experiences that matter. There may be no better example of this mission at play than “Hidden in Plain Site,” a virtual reality exploration of the Black experience throughout history in Richmond and Roanoke, Virginia. Produced by BROWNBAYLOR, Feedback, and Root VR, the project highlights important sites that don’t have monuments, that exist around corners and often under your feet. The goal is to change how residents and visitors alike see, experience, and understand the two cities. As founder and CEO of BrownBaylor, Dontrese Brown has long developed and delivered narratives that make history for clients, improve local communities, and serve youth. He believes strongly that history, however ugly, must be acknowledged, and that the stories of the past must be told to ensure a better future. In this episode of Beyond Profit, a podcast of the ANA Center for Brand Purpose, Dontrese joins host Ken Beaulieu to discuss Hidden in Plain Site, his advice to business leaders and marketers about taking on purposeful projects, creating an inclusive workplace culture, and more.