Chantel Powell: From Tyler Perry Studios to Target Shelves

How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield Guest: Chantel Powell, Founder & CEO of Play Pits In this episode, Dreena sits down with Chantel Powell , founder and CEO of Play Pits , to talk about what it takes to build something from the ground up and keep going when everything falls apart. From styling wardrobes at Tyler Perry Studios to creating one of the most beloved natural deodorant brands in the country, Chantel shares how motherhood sparked her purpose, how faith carried her through loss and a warehouse fire, and how she continues to rise like the phoenix she is.

This conversation is a story of resilience, faith, and legacy — a reminder that the hardest seasons often shape the strongest leaders. ⏱️ Episode Chapters [00:00] Introduction – Dreena welcomes Chantel Powell and sets up her journey from film to entrepreneurship.[03:10] The Moment That Sparked Play Pits – Her son’s “funk” leads to a kitchen experiment that changes everything.[06:00] From Kitchen Experiments to a Formula That Worked – Testing, feedback, and finding a natural chemist.[11:45] Laid Off and Launching Play Pits – Turning a layoff into a backyard launch moment.[15:10] First Big Break – Unique Jones’ “Because of Them We Can” feature sends sales soaring.[24:00] The Target Journey – The missed meeting that led to an undeniable retail moment.[35:30] The Warehouse Fire – Losing it all, surrendering, and rebuilding through faith.[46:00] Rising from the Ashes – Chantel’s phoenix moment and what legacy means now.[50:45] What’s Next for Play Pits – New products, family inspiration, and faith leading the way. Listen and follow How I Got Here with Dreena Whitfield for more stories of purpose, resilience, and the pivots that shape who we become. (00:00) - Welcome and Teaser (01:39) - From Mannequins to Studios (03:05) - Styling and Early Entrepreneurship (03:53) - Six Year Old Funk Problem (07:02) - Researching the Market Gap (08:54) - Kitchen Testing to Chemist (11:41) - Backyard Launch and Hustle (15:11) - Mexico Sales Surge Breakthrough (18:06) - Handling Rejection and Nos (19:57) - Scaling Inventory and Procurement (22:05) - Bootstrapping Grants and Growth (24:23) - Target Setback Undeniable Mindset (27:36) - Warehouse Era and Target Next (28:02) - Deodorant Equipment Challenges (29:11) - Hand Pouring With Love (29:58) - Target Launch Stress Test (32:24) - Family Pride Keeps Her Going (33:33) - Grief And Self Care Wake Up (35:24) - Warehouse Fire Night (40:09) - No Recovery And Surrender (44:05) - A New Home After Fire (46:14) - Phoenix Mindset In DEI Era (50:55) - What’s Next For Play Pits (53:22) - New Products And Wipes (54:51) - Quick Fire And Congrats