In this episode of The Bloc Power Hour, Sarah Harris sits down with TJ Loftin—legendary car builder, economic futurist, and filmmaker—to explore the intersection of culture, craftsmanship, and economic power.

His first film project, the WORKING WITH THE HANDS documentary, shines a national spotlight on the custom car and bike industry—not just as culture, but as a viable, scalable economic engine rooted in trades, mentorship, and self-sufficiency. The film, which has already earned Outstanding Documentary recognition, elevates a powerful and often overlooked pathway to economic mobility.

From building one of the largest automotive enterprises in the lowrider industry to advising communities on gentrification and ownership strategy, TJ has spent decades identifying overlooked opportunities and turning them into wealth-building pathways.

This conversation unpacks:

• The hidden multibillion-dollar economy behind classic cars
• Trades as a pathway to economic mobility
• Gentrification and how to strategically respond through ownership
• Preparing communities for major economic moments like the 2028 Olympics
• Why building with your hands can still build generational wealth

If you value conversations that move insight into impact, support this work at bbala.org.

Follow the show: @blocpowerhour @blackbusinessassociation @sarahharrisceo_

Follow TJ Loftin: @thomastjloftin | http://loftinimpalaparts.com

The Black Business Association officially introduces its CLEAR Path to Contracts program—a new model designed to connect small business readiness with real procurement opportunities.

In this episode of The Bloc Power Hour, Sarah Harris is joined by key program partners: Mackenzie Kim, Kimberly Kelly-Rolfe, and Patricia Click to break down how this collaborative model is transforming access to contracts.

With Los Angeles preparing to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, a historic wave of procurement opportunities is on the horizon—spanning industries and creating new pathways for local and small businesses to participate. LA28 has already committed to engaging local suppliers and expanding access to contracting opportunities across the region.

CLEAR Path to Contracts is designed to ensure businesses are not just aware of these opportunities—but fully prepared to compete for and win them.

With the BBA’s custom Haven Admin Portal now complete, the program is entering its pilot phase—selecting its first cohort of businesses to onboard, support, and position for real contract success.

This episode explores how preparation, access, and execution come together—and why this moment matters more than ever.

If you value conversations that move insight into impact, support this work at bbala.org.

Follow the show:
@blocpowerhour
@blackbusinessassociation
@sarahharrisceo_

Evan Tyler, owner of The Junkluggers of Crenshaw, joins The Bloc Power Hour to discuss how eco-conscious junk removal can drive community impact, job creation, and sustainability across Los Angeles.

With a background in engineering and manufacturing, Evan brings a systems-driven approach to an often-overlooked industry—transforming it into a model for responsible business practices and local economic empowerment. From residential clean-outs to large-scale commercial jobs, his company prioritizes landfill diversion, community hiring, and operational excellence.

This conversation explores how service-based businesses can become engines for environmental responsibility and neighborhood investment—especially as Los Angeles prepares for major global events and increased demand for infrastructure and clean communities.

Turning the mic into movement, this episode highlights how even the most practical businesses can play a powerful role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.

If you value conversations that move insight into impact, support this work at bbala.org.

Follow the show:
@blocpowerhour
@blackbusinessassociation
@sarahharrisceo_