Black Media’s $259 Billion Problem: High Engagement, Zero Ad Dollars

Transcript

A chance encounter with Black Enterprise founder Earl Graves forever changed 19-year-old Dexter Bridgeman’s life. Standing in Graves’ impressive Madison Avenue office, young Bridgeman declared, “One day I’m going to be a publisher.” Fast forward to today, and Bridgman has built MIA Media Group into Florida’s largest producer of Black-targeted content, reaching over one million readers and viewers weekly.

The spark that ignited his Florida media empire came in 2004 when he noticed something troubling in a Miami Herald feature on “South Florida’s top realtors”—not a single Black face among the 50 professionals. Despite local journalists claiming they could “only think of one or two” potential subjects for a Black-focused publication, Bridgman launched his first “power issue” that November. Twenty-one years later, through economic downturns and a pandemic, his publications have never missed an issue.

Bridgeman’s business philosophy centers on five timeless principles that have guided his success. First, pursue passion over profit—”don’t chase the dollar” with ventures that don’t genuinely excite you. Second, punctuality is non-negotiable—”if you’re on time, you’re late.” Third, good manners serve as actual currency in business relationships. Fourth, the “likability factor” matters enormously—people prefer doing business with those they genuinely connect with. Finally, and perhaps most crucially in today’s digital age, “guard your reputation jealously” as your name travels faster and farther than ever before.

As media consumption has transformed, so has Bridgeman’s business model. He recently transitioned all publications to digital flip books, acknowledging that “the days of print newspapers and magazines—those days are over.” He expresses concern that many Black businesses are falling behind in digital transformation, often being “the last ones to get the technology upgrade” due to financial constraints or knowledge gaps.

MIA Media Group’s mission remains steadfast: to “educate, inform and editorialize the success and achievement of the Black South Florida community.” Through publications like Legacy Magazine and recognition programs like “50 Most Powerful and Influential Black Business Leaders,” Bridgman provides platforms that highlight accomplishments often overlooked by mainstream media. Visit miamediagrp.com to connect with this pioneering media visionary who continues to create visibility where it’s needed most.

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