Key Takeaways

1. The value of over-communication with customers and transparency regarding product availability and setbacks.
2. Showcase the behind-the-scenes process to customers, creating transparency and building trust.
3. Work with a creative agency to bring the brand's vision to life through an ownable visual identity, logo, and color palette.
4. The importance of creating a unique and eye-catching product that stands out on shelves and against the competitor.
5. Partnering with Credo Beauty as the first retail partner for OURSIDE, focusing on self-expression and personal connection.
6. Her commitment to sustainability by using recycled glass, FSC-certified paper, and sourcing locally to reduce the carbon footprint.
7. Discusses the use of a combination of natural ingredients and safe synthetics to create vegan-friendly and cruelty-free products.
8. Prioritizing self-care and find moments of peace to maintain balance and personal well-being.

Recommended for: Fragrance enthusiasts and individuals interested in building a sustainable and inclusive brand, particularly those seeking insights into brand design, transparency, and the power of scent in creating a sense of belonging.

Follow OURSIDE

• Instagram: @OurSide.nyc
• Website: www.OurSide.nyc
• 
  

Follow The Texture Lounge

• Instagram: @The Texture Lounge
• Website: www.TheTextureLounge.com

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Desiree also opens up about the unique challenges of being a mompreneur and how she manages to balance motherhood with running a successful business. She highlights the significance of having a strong support system and the importance of not feeling ashamed to ask for help.

We dive into skincare and beauty as Desiree walks us through her morning and evening routines. She shares her favorite products and the impact of maintaining a consistent skincare regimen. We also get a glimpse into her upcoming beauty appointments and her excitement about replenishing her beauty products.

Desiree's transparency about the mental and emotional challenges faced in entrepreneurship is truly refreshing. She discusses the importance of prioritizing mental and emotional health and the value of having a supportive circle of friends. In this episode, Desiree encourages women to be confident in setting goals that work for them and not comparing themselves to others.

Tune in to this episode if you're interested in hearing about the journey of a successful beauty founder, the challenges of being a mompreneur, skincare routines, and maintaining mental and emotional well-being while pursuing your dreams.

Ideal for:

• Aspiring entrepreneurs who are considering taking that leap from corporate
• Aspiring founders who want to launch a beauty brand from scratch
• Working moms looking for inspiration and guidance on balancing career and family
• Skincare enthusiasts seeking tips and insights from a successful founder
• Anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of launching a beauty brand and the realities of entrepreneurship and motherhood.

Links

Hyper Skin website

Hyper Skin IG

The Texture Lounge IG

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Key Takeaways

• Aisha Dozie's journey of entrepreneurial reinvention and finding purpose beyond corporate life.
• The transformative power of cosmetics and Aisha's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Strategies for building a strong and recognizable brand, including crafting a compelling brand story.
• Aisha's resilience and ability to turn setbacks into opportunities as an entrepreneur.
• Innovative approaches in the beauty industry, from product development to marketing strategies.
• Aisha's experience and lessons learned from overcoming burnout.
• A special Oprah callout
• The intersection of beauty and social impact: Aisha's purpose-driven business model.

Resources

Aisha Dozie's IG

Bossy Cosmetics Website

Bossy Cosmetics IG

Join the The Texture Lounge community on IG

Ideal For:

• Aspiring beauty entrepreneurs seeking insights and inspiration from a successful female founder in the cosmetics industry.
• Individuals interested in the intersection of beauty, social impact, and entrepreneurship.
• Those looking for actionable strategies to build a standout brand and overcome entrepreneurial challenges.

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Key Takeaways:

• The importance of representation in the fragrance industry and Teri’s hopes to inspire more founders who look like her to enter the space.
• The role intentional storytelling plays through fragrance and how it translates to her brand.
• The inspiration behind the Harlem Candle Co's fragrance names and the role intentional storytelling plays through scent
• The future vision for the Harlem Candle Co., which includes expanding into the perfume category and getting into more stores.
• Johnson shares her self-care and beauty routines, which includes grounding exercises, DIY gel manicures and facials
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the importance of taking risks

Resources:

• Harlem Candle Company:
• harlemcandlecompany.com
• Instagram: Harlem Candle Co. and Harlem Perfume Co.
• The Texture Lounge on Instagram: @thetexturelounge

Recommended for: Those interested in entrepreneurship and the fragrance industry, and those looking to learn more about the importance of representation and intentional storytelling in business.

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The Takeaways

1. Importance of Market Research: Conducting research and benchmarking studies can help businesses make informed decisions rather than relying solely on personal preferences.
2. Challenges of Market Research: Lack of resources and high costs often lead to corners being cut in the research process, which can impact product development and brand identity.
3. Significance of Brand Identity: The design and aesthetic of a brand play a crucial role in attracting customers. Good packaging can enhance the perception of a product, while poor packaging can deter potential buyers.
4. Personal Involvement in Design: Due to budget constraints, Mia had to take charge of designing the brand's visuals, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness and creativity.
5. Brand Refresh: The brand is currently undergoing a refresh after being part of the Ulta Accelerator program, which allowed them to elevate the brand's image and explore new visual elements.
6. The Power of Design: Effective design choices, including color schemes and fonts, can convey the brand's values and create a lasting impression on customers.
7. Realistic Expectations: Building a successful business requires understanding that certain milestones, such as securing partnerships with retailers, may not always have the expected impact or payoff.
8. Learning Curve of Scaling: Scaling quickly and responding to opportunities can be challenging but offers valuable lessons for future growth and expansion.
9. Desire for Change in the Beauty Industry: Mia is passionate about promoting sustainability, emphasizing the need for proper recycling education and making sustainable packaging more accessible.
10. Prioritizing Self-Care: Balancing work and personal life is crucial for Mia, who values spending time with family and recognizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries.
11. Ideal Self-Care Moment: The founder describes her favorite self-care ritual, which involves starting early in the evening, lighting a candle, and engaging in oil cleansing with a face massage.
12. Evolving Priorities: As one grows older, understanding personal needs and learning to say no become integral to achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
13. The Value of Time: Mia stresses the significance of cherishing moments and avoiding regrets by prioritizing family and personal well-being.

This podcast episode provides valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship, brand identity, sustainability, and self-care, offering inspiration and practical advice for listeners in the beauty industry and beyond.

Recommended For:

Anyone interested in African ingredients, beauty entrepreneurship, sustainability, self-care, and beauty rituals.

Where to Follow

•Instagram: @dehiyabeauty

•TikTok: @dehiyabeauty

•Website: www.dehiyabeauty.com

Where to Buy

•dehiyabeauty.com

•Thirteen Lune

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Key Topics

• The meaning behind her brand's name: Satya + Sage
• The importance of setting sacred space for self-care
• The challenges of being a small business owner
• The power of intuition in decision-making
• The need for self-reflection and self-care in everyday life
• How to prioritize self-care when you're busy
• Overcoming imposter syndrome
• The importance of being intentional about self-care
• Plus a special breath work and affirmation exercise guided by Sonja

Where to Follow

• Instagram: @satyasage
• TikTok: @satyasage
• Website: www.satyasage.com

Discount Code

• Use code "texture30" for 30% off your purchase on satyasage.com

Where to Buy

• satyasage.com - use discount code "texture30" for 30% off your purchase
• Thirteen Lune

Resources Mentioned

• satyasage.com - sign up to the newsletter for Sonja's free ebook for daily mindfulness

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If you have a taste for more in this area, go back to episode 17 for the full tea.

Share this snackisode with someone who needs to hear the message.

And while you are at it, rate and review this podcast wherever you get it from. I appreciate every single one.

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Brandice talks about:

• Going after your idea, full throttle
• Asking for help when you need it
• How designers of colour can attract visibility to their work
• The biggest myth to debunk in the fashion industry
• Fears and confidence killers
• What she wishes she new before starting her career
• An example of a "failure" she experienced in her journey
• The last time she celebrated herself

To listen to the full episode, go back to 15 for the full tea.

Rate and review this podcast where you get it. I appreciate every single one.

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Key takeaways:

• Melanin-rich skin can be more prone to hyperpigmentation and can have a trickier time clearing it.
• Sunscreen is crucial in treating hyperpigmentation, but mineral-based sunscreens that do not leave a white cast can be challenging to find.
• Retinoids are a multitasking ingredient that can help with a range of skincare concerns, but it's important to use them in low concentrations and build up over time for sensitive skin.
• Dr. Jeanniton prioritizes skincare in her evening routine, which includes several steps.
• The importance of disconnecting from work and taking time off; essential for mental and physical health.
• epi.logic is hosting a clinic takeover in Grand Cayman in June.

Follow Dr. Chaneve Jeanniton and epi.logic on Instagram at @epi.logic and visit the epi.logic website to learn more about their products.

Visit thetexturelounge.com and Apple Podcasts for previous episodes. 

Rate, review and share with another like-minded individual.

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In this snackisode, she shares her drive to live in the truth of African history, before slavery. We touch on babalawos, diviners and healers through to community as a core value in many african communities and the importance to creating more socially equitable spaces for our community.

For the full episode, go back to episode 19 for the full tea.

Rate and review this podcast - I appreciate every one.

Follow:

Tara Gbolade

Gbolade Design Studio

The Texture Lounge

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She also shares what it was like to grow up in a Black Panther and Nation of Islam household.

For the full episode, listen to episode 8 of The Texture Lounge podcast to learn more about Stevie’s journey.

Rate and review - I appreciate every one.

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A selection of the topics covered:

• Abena's experience pitching Hanahana to Ulta Beauty and the excitement of launching in 450+ Ulta stores
• The future of Hanahana and the brand's focus on creating daily use products with ethical ingredients
• The importance of intentionality in beauty and how it plays out in product development and the Circle of Care mission
• Abena's personal wellness practices, including finding daily moments of joy and peace in her faith
• Abena's skincare routine, which prioritizes washing her face, using a serum and moisturizer, and applying lip balm
• Upcoming plans to expand the brand's body care line and sharing recipes in a more strategic way

Links:

• (advert) Vibe Village: a brand strategy and talent agency for brands and creators of color
• Hanahana on IG: @hanahana_beauty
• Hanahana website: https://hanahanabeauty.com
• Abena: @beanieboamah
• Hanahana Circle of Care
• Donate to the Circle of Care mission here
• Books: The Sex Lives of African Women by Nana Darkoa

Visit thetexturelounge.com and Apple Podcasts for previous episodes.

Rate, review and share with another like-minded individual.

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In this snackisode, you will hear how she managed to build her business while maintaining her corporate job and the reason why she launched My Curl ID.

Is there really such thing as balance in this scenario? When is the right time to take the leap and go full time on your business?

If these are questions for you are struggling to answer for yourself, eavesdrop into this snackisode.

Share this snackisode with a friend that needs to hear this.

Rate and review this podcast - I appreciate every one of them.

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Camille shares the process of creating Pound Cake, including the ups and downs she experienced, such as being dropped by labs due to her "picky" nature.

She also discusses the importance of lip tone and why Pound Cake rejects universal shades, opting instead for a line of full-coverage liquid lipsticks for different skin and lip tones.

Regarding branding, Camille talks about the intentional process of creating Pound Cake's brand identity, from designing logos and graphics to producing videos and photos. She also shares tips for beauty founders on the brand identity process.

Overall, the episode provides a deep dive into the world of beauty entrepreneurship and the challenges and triumphs of building a pro-diversity cosmetics brand.

Visit thetexturelounge.com and Apple Podcasts for previous episodes.

Rate, review and share with a friend.

Links to resources mentioned:

Vibe Village - a brand strategy & talent agency for brands, founder & creators of colour

Pound Cake Cosmetics - website

Pound Cake - IG

Pound Cake is available at Credo Beauty

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Want to hear the full episode? Go to your podcast platform of choice and search episode 22 of The Texture Lounge podcast.

If you love what you hear, follow, rate and review this podcast - I appreciate every one.

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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Visit thetexturelounge.com and Apple Podcasts for previous episodes. Rate, review and share with a friend.

Links to resources mentioned:

Vibe Village - a brand strategy & talent agency for brands, founder & creators of colour

The Honey Pot Co.

Rosen Skincare

Rosa Rebellion - a platform for creative activists and for women of color

The Other Skincare

Biossance

Paula's Choice

Cover FX (makeup)

My Fab Finance Money Persona Quiz

The Money Manual (Tonya's book)

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This episode snack captures career and leadership expert Kimberly Brown outlining what to expect when you take the leap from your corporate job and foray into the world of entrepreneurship.

To eavesdrop into the full conversation, listen to episode 29 wherever you get your podcasts from.

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You have a great idea. You see a gap in the market. You've sense-checked it with potential users. Now the next step is to put it out there.

That's the scary bit. The bit that freezes us in place. But it shouldn't.

In this episode snack, Jihan Thompson, co-founder of Swivel Beauty, gives us her take on how to push past procrastination.

To listen to the whole meal, listen to episode 32 for the full conversation.

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In this episode snack, Dr Cindy Duke tells us what we can do to help slow the growth of returning fibroids post-myomectomy and advises how we can best prepare ourselves to conceive in our older years.

Listen ep. 16 for the full episode.

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In this episnack, fitness expert, personal trainer and founder of Power In Movement, Kehinde Anjorin, shares advice on how to manage working out during this time.

For the full meal, eavesdrop into episode 12.

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In this episode snack, Harvard trained dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, Dr. Michelle Henry, gives her professional POV on how scientifically accurate, this statement is, or is not.

For the full meal, eavesdrop into episode 20.

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In this short episode snack, Naeemah LaFond (Global Artistic Director, Amika) is explicit about who's responsibility it is to ensure that all stylists hired to work backstage are proficient in all textures; and guess what? It is not the designer's.

Listen to episode 31 for the full meal. https://youtu.be/UeQjD3p_6LE

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With Black women being the largest group of entrepreneurs in the US, I feel it necessary to find out what the impact of motherhood has been in starting and running their businesses. Did they give up their dream? Put it on hold? Pivot? What about their own identities? Did they lose or manage to keep it, in the process?

I saw a sub-headline in a magazine that I cut out and pinned to my vision board. "Yes, you can create a business and a baby" and vowed to bring this up in my conversations, because, I believe we can, but let's be aware of what might come up.

In this episode, Ulanie Wilson, CEO and founder of Planted Haircare, joins me in the Lounge; and here's what we talk about:

• The meaning behind her name, Ulanie
• Current book she is reading: Divine Disruption by Dr. Tony Evans
• Her zone of genius
• Insecurity she grew up with and overcoming it
• Why she launched Planted Haircare
• How she put her business plan on pause but kept her dream alive for seven years
• Challenges she faced when returning back to her business, full-time
• Most satisfying career moment (Essence magazine feature)
• Knowing when to outsource the work
• Importance of branding
• Why Ayuverda
• Her go-to plant-derived ingredients and why
• The one product in her line she would recommend to first time users
• The balancing act of being a mother, wife and business owner, and the hat she wears the most
• Identity loss in motherhood and tips to avoid this
• How she carves time out for herself and what she sacrifices to honor it
• Favourite self-care moment and when she feels most beautiful
• Signature question: Got 15 mins. Hair or makeup?
• Where to buy Planted Haircare (shop at: My Curl ID)
• Follow Planted Haircare on IG: @plantedhaircare or their website

Do rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It makes all the difference!

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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We bonded over many many things: Beauty, being British & Nigerian and our Capricorn tendencies.

Abi is also a x2 Olympic athlete (100 - 200m sprinter) and the creative eye of the brand.

Both founders (Abi & Liha) met at university in 1998 and bonded over their Nigerian heritage and appreciation for good quality shea butter.

One of the many things I love about LIHA Beauty, is how they lean heavily on our Yoruba language, traditional culture and beauty rituals to influence their product naming and positioning.

Here is what we chat about:

• Naming a beauty brand after a business partner
• Why Abi & Liha came together to launch LIHA Beauty
• Abi's biggest learning curve as a business owner: (know your numbers inside out!)
• Overcoming her insecurity of being overly humble 24/7
• Her most satisfying career moment to date
• The influence of Yoruba tradition in LIHA Beauty's positioning
• Abi's future vision for LIHA Beauty
• Her earliest beauty memories & childhood beauty rituals (shea butter, black soap & dettol!)
• The truth and wonders of traditional ose dudu (means "black soap" in Yoruba language)
• The difference between traditional Nigerian ose dudu and LIHA Beauty's more moisturizing alternative ose gidi
• What to expect from LIHA Beauty's Nigerian (golden) (sourced from Ogun state) and Ghanian (ivory) shea butters.
• The million-dollar question: Can shea butter be used directly on the face or not?
• All the ways to use these LIHA star products: Idan Oil (multipurpose with tuberose flower) and Orinrin Cleansing Balm (a favourite of mine)
• How she pairs gua sha ritual with Orinrin Cleansing Balm
• How she fares with setting boundaries
• The difficulty of making friends at an older age
• The upcoming beauty appointments in her calendar
• Find out more about LIHA Beauty: @lihabeauty, www.lihabeauty.com and shop LIHA Beauty online on Thirteen Lune and in JCPenney Stores, if you are in the States.

Rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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Artistpreneur, founder of True & Pure Textures natural hair extension line and salon owner of Salon PK (Jacksonville, Florida).

Pekela's artistic aesthetic is supremely creative, edgy & elevated; I would define it as 'texture-futurism'.

She founded the phenomenal True + Pure Texture haircare extension line out of the frustration of women of colour damaging their own natural hair to blend with silky mainstream extensions prevalent in the market.

Through the years of knowing her and her work, I am truly enjoying watching PK have a lifelong, unapologetic love affair with the magic she makes with textured hair.

Here's what we talk about:

• Meaning behind her name, Pekela
• Her zone of genius
• What makes her great at what she does
• Her insecurities growing up
• Her personal beauty & fashion style
• The overlap of being an artist and an entrepreneur
• Viewing pivots in business as a "style-shift
• How she gets into the zone when creating her artistry
• Introvert or extrovert and how it plays in her creations
• Managing expectations: "It's ugly before it gets pretty"
• Her view on mentorship and the mentors in her head
• The reason why she felt bringing True + Pure Texture to the market was necessary
• The evolution of Black women's expectations on hair texture: "It's too silky, it's too shiny. We want more of who we are"
• What makes True + Pure Texture special: the quality of microtextures
• What ethical sourcing looks like for hair extensions
• Reversing the taboo of wig-wearing: an extension of our expression
• The importance of boundaries & self-care
• Got 15 mins: Makeup vs hair
• Where to find Pekela @pekalariley and @trueandpuretexture

Rate, review & subscribe on Apple Podcasts.

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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In this episode, Jihan and I chat it up and talk about what it takes to take your idea from a concept to a business.

Here's what else we talk about:

• Transitioning from journalism to launch a beauty tech business
• Where did the idea of Swivel come from
• Pivotal moment when Jihan realized she had to launch the platform
• Her experience in the Sephora Accelerate program and its benefits
• How procrastination showed up for her and how she overcame them
• Biggest learn in the entrepreneurship journey
• Leveraging her network to bring Swivel to life
• Introvert or extrovert and how it plays in her she runs her business
• Tips for emerging entrepreneurs out there
• Beauty rituals Jihan maintains today
• Her upcoming scheduled beauty appts
• Her fave hair/beauty products
• Trendwatch: Thoughts on the flurry of celebrities launching beauty brands
• Where to find her/Swivel Beauty: @swivelbeauty and swivelbeauty.com

Rate, review & subscribe on Apple Podcasts.

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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Haitian-American, Brooklyn-based, Queen of statement hair and Global Artistic Director at Amika haircare brand.

Here's what we are talking about:

• The meaning behind her name (tip: John Coltrane is involved)
• Her zone of genius
• What book she is reading: "Say More About That...and other ways to speak up, push back and advocate for yourself and others" by Amber Carrall.
• An insecurity she had growing up
• Her multiple career-shifts: From a tax account, biomedical pharmacology, sociology, court clerk to hairstylist.
• What sparks her creative process for her phenomenally extra, signature looks
• Most satisfying career moment
• Trendwatch: Why black models are not being serviced backstage at fashion shows & who's fault it is
• Importance of boundaries and the signs that tell her she needs to disconnect from everything
• Her ultimate dream for her life
• Earliest beauty moments
• Her favourite self-care moment & upcoming beauty appointments
• Where to find her: @naeemahlafond

Rate, review & subscribe on Apple Podcasts.

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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In this episode, I chat it up with Sandra Pitroipa, founder of new ecommerce website for textured hair products, My Curl ID.

Every product listed on mycurlid.com has been carefully curated and tested by Sandra herself.

Sandra's tells us that her goal for launching the online platform, is to provide Black women and women with textured hair, one place to discover haircare products designed for them, that are rarely visible in other retailers. Choice & discoverability is at the center here.

Use my discount code TEXTURELOUNGE20 to get 20% off your My Curl ID order. For a limited time only.

Here's what we talk about:

• What book she is reading now: "The Stand" by Stephen King
• Launching a business, while still working full-time in corporate
• Where the idea of My Curl ID came from
• The struggles
• Leveraging her networks: https://thecru.com/ and https://thegatheringspot.club/
• Important and benefits of a mentorship relationship for aspiring business owners
• Boundaries she set, to remain focused on building her business
• Going beyond the 15% pledge (retailer shelf space dedicated to black-owned brands)
• Tips for emerging entrepreneurs
• Her beauty rituals; the comfort of raw shea butter
• When she feels the most beautiful
• Her favourite beauty products: Planted Haircare's Ayuverdic Black Soap Shampoo
• Where to find My Curl ID: @mycurlid (Instagram)

Rate, review & subscribe on Apple Podcasts

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If you are a budding entrepreneur, a woman of colour in the workplace looking to optimize your calendar to avoid burnout and increase productivity, looking to take the leap from corporate, there's a seat waiting for you in this episode.

Topics we are talking about:

• Which books she is reading: "The High Five Habit" by Mel Robbins; "Everyday Magic" by Mattie James; "Shook One"by Charlamagne the God; "The Seven Levels of Intimacy" by Matthew Kelly
• Day Design & Productivity: how to structure your working day to get the most out of it, personally and professionally
• Taking the leap off the corporate ladder
• Trendwatch: Kimberly on 'Quiet-Quitting' & setting boundaries in the workplace
• What a realistic to-do list should look like
• Therapy as an approach to solve for people-pleasing
• The ideal day-off
• Her upcoming beauty appointments
• When she feels the most beautiful
• Favourite beauty products: Dermalogica, Beauty by Africa Miranda facial elixir, Curology Retin-A, Saie tinted lipgloss & Make Up HD Forever foundation stick.
• Her coaches
• Where to find Kimberly Brown: website and on Instagram

Rate, review & subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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• Quick travel hacks for those frequent travelers out there
• The meaning of the 'Quiet-Quitting' Tik Tok trend, and my opinion
• Nigeria's new advertising policy: a ban on foreign models in ads, and my opinion

Join me in the Lounge. Eavesdropping allowed, always.

Review, rate & subscribe on Apple Podcasts.

Follow The Texture Lounge on Instagram here.

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In this solosode, I share some big personal news and talk about what it means to stop, pause and pivot, when society only champions the climb & grind.

In a recent interview that Burna Boy gave (cannot find the name of media platform that took the interview but I found the clip on Moyo Africa IG page), he speaks of his frustration regarding schools not teaching students the truth about African history, pre-colonization, pre-slavery. A topic you know that I am into. I share my experience of this growing up in the UK.

Thank you for tuning in. Eavesdropping allowed, always.

Rate, review & subscribe to The Texture Lounge on Apple Podcast

Follow me on Instagram

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The world stayed up for Beyoncé’s latest drop at midnight, Renaissance. One long dance party with magical seamless transitions, from track to track. My fave song? Move. And given we are well past the middle of the year, I do a quick check-in on the key themes I wanted to prioritize for myself this year. Can you guess what they are? Plus, I share some BIG news! Grab some tea and tune in for this solo-sode.

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worth the wait! Kimberly Dillon, Founder of Frigg, a stress-less beauty brand powered by plant

magic, gives us a beauty lesson, history lesson, and science lesson on the power of cannabis

and we will all be the wiser after listening to Kimberly’s expertise.

We chat about her experience as the first Black female CMO in the cannabis industry, how

burnout led to her aha! moment, combatting anxiety, transparent and science-backed beauty,

why cannabis is stigmatized, the importance of meditation and SO much more!

Show Notes

Kimberly Dillon on...

(6:00) - how her career trajectory led her to the cannabis industry

(9:10) - how her search for women’s place in cannabis historically and her love of comic books

led to the name of her company

(13:19) - her hair and beauty rituals growing up and in the corporate world

(18:22) - being a Black, female CMO in an industry that became legal overnight

(25:15) - anxiety + the science of cannabis

(28:34) - getting her expertise questioned by a junior executive as CMO

(30:58) - her AHA moment connecting the dots between CBD oil and her radiant appearance

(33:48) - what is a tincture

(34:41) - the definition, history & context of cannabis, hemp, THC & CBD, cannabinoids

(38:35) - the endocannabinoid system

(41:13) - what CBD is doing in the skin

(50:16) - her 3 pillars for combatting anxiety - CBD, exercise, and meditation

(54:31) - using sound baths or chanting as a way into meditation

(58:50) - the benefits of Frigg’s Attuning Hair Potion

(1:00:45) - the benefits of Frigg’s Attuning Face Potion

(1:05:20) - her reasoning behind developing a scientific advisory board

(1:13:41) - toxic ingredients and unethical supply chain practices in some beauty ingredients

(castor oil)

(1:15:11) - conscious capitalism in cannabis and her holistic philosophy on approaching business

(1:17:10) - the reason why cannabis is stigmatized thanks to Harry Anslinger & his racism

(1:25:52) - the creation of the marijuana & prison pipeline

(1:32:59) - myth-busting stereotype of cannabis users as lazy and criminal

(1:35:55) - myth-busting stereotype of cannabis as dangerous & the importance of purchasing

from a reputable source

(1:44:31) - the full potential of wealth of the cannabis industry

(1:48:04) - how being slow will speed you up and the origin of self-care

(1:51:37) - her rituals - gratitude prayer, morning pages from The Artist Way, Voluspa candles,

aromatherapy (Palo Santo, Sandalwood & Rosemary), and adding colorful lightbulbs to increase

the whimsy in her life

(1:56:01) - her go-to beauty products

(1:58:54) - her favorite Black-owned beauty & wellness product - @peakandvalleyco Balance My

Stress Adaptogen Blend

(2:01:40) - how we should all take as much care with our emotional wellbeing as we do with our

physical appearance

(2:02:51) - where to follow Kimberly @kimberlykdillon and check out Frigg at getfrigg.com and on

social @getfrigg

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(02:00) - her personal definition of beauty. “It comes from within”

(03:45) - her own beauty style

(07:00) - when she feels the most beautiful

(08:00) - being a morning person and how it impacts her productive levels

(09:50) - how Lauren Napier Beauty got started and the philosophy behind the brand

(12:00) - sustainability being a core part of her product development

(16:15) - the negative perception of makeup wipes and why her brand of wipes are more superior

(19:52) - what she wished she knew before joining the beauty industry

(23:48) - her confidence killers growing up. Talks about being a late bloomer

(27:19) - her favourite skincare ingredients. Apricot oil, coriander, avocado oil…

(29:27) - the products from Black women-owned beauty brands that she integrates into her self-care rituals @sundayIIsunday, @hyperskin and @leland_francis

(37:00) - pamerping and her ultimate night-time skincare routine

(40:35) - her hair journey

(44:53) - ‘Consider Something Better:; an initiative Lauren has started that encourages corporations to give back to startups for economic empowerment

(47:50) - her must-have skincare + body products

(49:23) - where to follow Lauren: @laurennapierbeauty

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I was introduced to Nai’vasha by the lovely actress Melanie Liburd about 2 years ago (2019). Of course, I knew of Nai’vasha’s work beforehand, I mean, she is the visionary behind the intricate red carpet hairstyles of some of our fave muses. Think Alicia Keys, Yara Shahidi, Tracee Ellis Ross, Storm Reid etc.

It wasn’t until we connected together on this episode that I realized we have so much in common. Introverts, music industry background, beauty industry aficionados, candle burners, to name but a few.

Nai’vasha was incredibly vulnerable in this episode and I am truly honored that she felt comfortable enough to expose her inner-most fears, insecurities and thoughts with me, and with you. Listen in closely as she spills her honest feelings about Black Twitter’s reaction to her first US Vogue cover (August 2020 issue) with Simone Biles, the role of mentorship and peer-to-peer feedback in her career to date.

I invite you to access this episode through the links below. But first, grab your beverage of choice and a notebook - especially if you are a creative who may be introverted and finds it challenging to network within the industry to get your word out there. Nai’vasha will walk you through what work and didn’t work for her.

Enjoy!

SHOW NOTES

Nai’vasha on…

(04:10) - her fear of public speaking and being in front of the camera.

(05:39) - being an introvert and never having been to a club, ever.

(07:00) - her body image and her anxiety around it.

(09:40) - the meaning behind her name. A name with Kenyan roots.

(13:28) - how COVID has impacted her positively and what she has learned about herself during quarantine.

(15:00) - motherhood and getting closer to her children. Watching them develop into their own identities.

(20:06) - rituals growing up. Her mother never blow-dried her hair. Airdry for the win!

(24:32) - her main confidence killer that she is still adjusting to. Her body figure and how she uses her hair to make her feel safe.

(28:19) - the defining moment when she knew she was good at what she does.

(32:19) - navigating from finance to working with the likes of Alicia Keys.

(37:40) - the fruits of peer-to-peer mentorship and how it scored Nai’vasha her first celebrity clients: Ciara, Naomie Harris and Wanda Sykes.

(40:00) - how she looked overseas for inspiration to help develop her skillset as a creative hairstylist & using her clients and HBCU students to hone her talent.

(42:00) - the feedback culture and how it can be a blessing and a curse. Example: Black Twitter’s reaction to the Annie Leibovitz cover shot of Simone Biles (Aug 2020) that Nai’vasha styled.

(56:30) - advice to stylists on how to approach established stylists for mentorship.

(59:13) - what she wished she knew before starting her career in beauty.

(1:07:33) - the last time she pat herself on the back and why.

(1:08:45) - on exposing her grey hairs for the first time (at Allure magazine shoot).

(1:10:27) - rituals that keeps her grounded: candles, prayer, facials & laser treatments, will supporting black-owned female business.

(1:13:53) - the black business she loves and supports: Fe Noel, Brother Vellies and Aliette.

(1:17:30) - her final messages to you, “Practice loving on yourself. It’s a daily ritual”; and where you can find her @naivashaintl.

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(04:19) - being an introvert, despite her require sometimes requiring her to exert extroverted energy

(06:16) - the advantages of quarantine and how she has found the good in it all. “Who are we at our core?”

(10:52) - the meaning and origination of her name, Yene Bicha. Meaning: Mine only. Named by her father

(14:00) - being a first generation ethiopian-american and how her heritage influences her daily American life

(17:51) - spending time in city/country where the majority looks like you

(19:38) - beauty traditions from the ethiopian culture

(21:00) - when she knew she would be a hairstylist. At 16 years young

(22:40) - having a BA in Business Administration and how it has helped her as a business owner

(22:55) - what she wished she knew before beginning her career as a hairstylist. “You don’t have to know everything”

(26:32) - her go to hairstyles for herself. Yene talks about style shifting and reinventing her look through multiple hairstyles

(28:20) - her journey from graduating from cosmetology school and moving from Orange County to the White House, as one of two hairstylists to the Obama family

(30:20) - what it was like working with the First Lady, Mrs Michelle Obama

(32:00) -the origination and signification of our Black cultural hairstyles and we touch upon cultural appropriation

(39:33) - the CROWN act. Creating a Respectful and Open World/Workplace for Natural hair

(44:15) - a key business building tip for all salon owners looking to build their business and careers in the hair industry

(45:00) - running as therapy. Her current self-care ritual

(47:15) - her beauty essentials. Yene names Mizani’s 25 Miracle Milk as a must-have for textured hair

(49:35) - her final message: "You have to know who you are…”

(51:31) - where to find Yene: @yenedamtew; her salon: @aesthetics.salon. For professional stylists, click here to find out how you can join her academy community for salon business tips

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As I research and read of our plight, I can’t help but smile. Because, despite it all: the sadness, the disbelief and the trauma, we still stand today, stronger than ever and we are just brilliant.

It is a written piece that i chose to record for those of you who prefer the audio format. Whenever you need to remember just how inspiring, beautiful and resilient you are, come back and listen to this.

Read the full piece here

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(00:02:45) - the origin of her name

(00:05:00) - how COVID-19 has impacted her day to day positively

(00:07:33) - Tumi shares a tip on how she purposefully disconnects from her phone in the evenings

(00:08:55) - how she started in dermatology. She initially thought she would become a breast cancer surgeon

(00:11:55) - the importance of being able to infuse her culture into her role as a dermatologist, to ensure the right diagnosis are made

(00:16:12) - what she wish she kew about this industry before she started in her career. To trust her voice her much earlier on

(00:17:17) - on seamlessly speaking up at all times

(00:18:57) - Tumi on her recent favourite way of making time for herself. Long luxe baths

(00:20:15) - her confidence killers as child growing up

(00:21:18) - her hair journey through the year and getting into a stride as someone who wears her hair natural, while shifting her style with confidence

(00:24:00) - skincare routines growing up

(00:25:33) - nay to coconut oil on the face but ok for the body

(00:25:44) - turmeric in skincare. breaks up excess pigment, soothing and anti-inflammatory

(00:28:14) - black don’t crack but what if your black is cracking? Dr Henry shares her position on this famous phrase

(00:31:00) - how melanated skin should be cared for

(00:33:57) - you skincare regimen must-haves

(00:33:45) - Tumi walk s through her own skincare favourites. Dr Henry shares the importance of a daytime and night-time regimen.

(00:39:28) - skincare multi-taskers to help simplify your regimen

(00:41:41) - clarifies how facial oils should be used. Under or over the moisturizer?

(00:44:22) - ingredients to avoid for those with sensitive skin

(00:46:10) - breakdown the difference between the popular skincare acids: AHAs, BHAs and hyaluronic acid

(00:47:42) - debunks the myths of organic/natural ingredients versus chemicals.

(00:50:24) - her favourite buzz ingredients. Dr Henry also speaks about the need for sunscreen to help protect melanated skin against blue light

(00:53:02) - the difference between chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreens and she names her faves for darker skintones

(00:55:48) - rituals that keeps her grounded: meditation

(00:57:30) - the final messages she wants to leave you with

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(00:05:48) - why she has decided to explore the wealth of African history; pre-slavery

(00:11:30) - babalawos, diviners and healers

(00:17:10) - the link between Christianity and slavery

(00:26:48) - community as a core value in many African communities; and the importance of creating more socially equitable spaces for our community

(00:29:55) - a brief introduction to Tara and her career in architecture

(00:32:36) - the submissive nature of Nigerians and how this impacts our ability to challenge and speak up to authority

(01:03:30) - her experiences while meditating

(01:09:44) - the meaning and power behind her name

(01:16:00) - definition of a babalawo

(01:26:55) - the books she is reading. A Very Short Introduction to African History, A Very Short Introduction to African Religions, Black & British: a forgotten history and Africa Architecture.

Follow Tara on Instagram: @taragbolade and find out more about Gbolade Design Studios.

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Diallo Brooks and Dave the Cop on…

(07:30) - What inspired Diallo to get into social justice. Fact: his great-great grandmother, Maggie Walker, was the first woman and first black woman to found a bank. A statue has been erected in Richmond, VA in her honor (07:30).

(09:17) - What it looks like to champion social justice.

(13:17) - How they would feel if their kids decided to become police officers.

(17:33) - On policing being a way of fighting for social justice.

(18:45) - Officers that stand by and watch their colleagues kill black civilians.

(21:00) - Being on the side of the protestors.

(22:25) - What inspired Dave to become a police officer.

(23:17) - What he wish he knew before becoming a police officer.

(25:36) - Whether Dave identifies more as being a black man or being a police officer in America; and how it affects how he does his job.

(29:40) - How Dave, as a Black man, feels seeing and hearing about the senseless murders of Black civilians.

(31:58) - What “the talk” sounds like in both their households.

(42:00) - Racial biases within the police department.

(44:17) - The quota system - productivity goals within the police department.

(52:44) - Historical context of how policing came about as a formalized structure during slavery.

(54:38) - Police reform. Understanding the core needs of the community will dictate what level of policing is required.

(66:20) - Respecting due process & timelines for the investigation and indictment of wrongful police officers.

(71:00) - Police violence stats according to https://mappingpoliceviolence.org.

72:00 - Defining qualified immunity.

(75:00) - Accountability around police misconduct in the Black community.

(79:00) - What their actions would have been had they seen George Floyd being murdered firsthand.

(93:45) - Whether this is a movement or a moment.

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(09:00) The story behind her name

(11:45) How Project She Went For Her Dreams came about

(14:52) Navigating the move from corporate to owning her business

(21:10) Taking the leap into the unknown and how to manage the fears of our African/African-Caribbean parents in doing so

(30:45) Launching The Mentors Circle. A mentorship program for women of colour

(36:19) Her first mentor and how she found and approached her.

(37:00) What good mentorship looks like

(45:42) What a career could look like with and without mentorship

(51:00) Entrepreneurialism: How the global pandemic has impacted her business. Positively by the way

(55:11) What she has learned about herself during the current global pandemics

(59:28) Actionable tips on how entrepreneurs can take the leap into finally starting up their new venture

(01:03:45) How she protects her mental space and the importance of morning routines

(01:06:42) Her top beauty essentials. Skincare, makeup and haircare.

01:12:00 The Mentors Circle scholarship initiative. Want to contribute monetarily to the fund? Do so here

(01:13:00) Everyone’s favourite part. The lightning round

(01:16:00) How to keep up with the work at Project She Went For Her Dreams

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(00:00:00) - Check out our new theme tune. ‘Driving Me Crazy’ produced by @Rheimidi (look up his work on Instagram). Preview the full length at the end of this episode.

(00:04:04) - Introducing Dr Cindy Duke.

(00:04:50) - The meaning behind her name.

(00:07:45) - How she fell in love with the world of Fertility.

(00:11:09) - Some facts on uterine fibroids and its impact on black women

(00:13:03) - What is a fibroid and what does it look like?

(00:21:10) - Why fibroids are so rampant among black women and its link to vitamin D deficiency and its impact on fibroid growth.

(00:25:10) - Link to relaxer use and fibroids in black women.

(00:27:14) - The tell-tale symptoms of someone suffering from fibroids

(00:28:50) - The disparities. Black women aren’t taken seriously by the medical community when they show up with their symptoms and therefore aren’t tended to quickly enough (versus non-black females) for treatment.

(00:32:24) - Listen up: if you are experiencing any of these abnormal periods, get a physician to look in your womb and address the situation.

(00:33:28) - The fear of forced sterilization among Black American women.

(00:35:35) - I share my curious experience of finding out whether I have fibroids or not.

(00:43:34) - The difference between a myomectomy and hysterectomy.

(00:45:15) - Call-in Q1: Returning fibroids after myomectomy. What can we do differently to slow down or eliminate the growth of fibroids outside of surgery?

(00:53:15) - Top tips for women who plan to have children after the age of 37.

(00:55:17) - Environmental issues that affect our egg quality and egg count. Dr Duke breaks down the number of eggs women have over our lifespan. Mind blowing.

(00:57:37) - Egg freezing as your backup plan.

(01:00:00) Call-in Q2: The egg freezing process. Am I giving up on the traditional way of having kids? What is the ideal age of egg freezing for successful results.

(01:08:50) - What men need to do to boost their reproductive health.

(01:13:40) - Dr Duke advises we when should schedule our 1st appointment with a fertility physician.

(01:22:00) - Call-in Q3: For someone with low egg count, what should they do to keep them healthy?

(01:28:02) - Call-in Q4: Irregular periods? How much of a concern should this be?

(01:31:00) - Her go-to beauty essentials

(01:34:00) - Where to find Dr Cindy Duke. @drcindymduke on social media and www.drcindyduke.com. Look for her new ebook “Infertility in the time of COVID-19”.

(01:36:00) - The lightening round. Everyone’s favourite bit. A series of quick questions on popular culture.

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(00:03:16) - Who she is and her company, Harlem’s Fashion Row.

(00:04:43) - Her name story: how the name ‘Brandice’ was born.

(00:06:28) - Exploring the first ‘F’ word: the Force that birthed HFR and what got her passionate about elevating designers of colour.

(00:10:10) - The resources Brandice did not readily have at her disposal to get HFR off the ground and how she acquired them. The harsh realities of being in the Big Apple with no money and no connections.

(00:11:15) - Accepting help from your friends and how she acquired most of her resources by taking people up on their offers.

(00:13:20) - Passion and going after your idea full throttle, no matter what. How passion will attract those resources you are looking for.

(00:15:30) - Summarizing her top tips for budding entrepreneurs who want to start their own business. Be brave. Get comfortable with the discomfort. Leverage your tribe. Go towards your goals and be courageous/say the thing you need.

(00:16:23) - Fashion. Rediscovering her personal style and shopping designers of colour.

(00:16:26) - Her why she has set closet goals. “My goal is to have 80% of my closet be designers of colour.” Wow.

(00:21:46) - What fashion should really mean.

(00:23:27) - The shifts she has experienced first-hand within the fashion industry. She touches on race and racism in fashion.

(00:27:07) - What she is still yearning to see change in the industry. There are no multi-billion dollar fashion brands owned by black designers today, yet we spend $22 billion and more on apparel.

(00:28:19) - Her first upcoming fundraiser. The HFR Icon 360 non-profit and virtual fashion event which sees the worlds of fashion, sports and philantrophy coming together 30th May, 2020. All proceeds to go to designers of colour.

(00:29:42) - How designers of colour can attract visibility to their work and step out from behind. The dos and don’ts.

(00:32:25) - Debunking on myth (mynth, as i said! Shaking my own head here…) on the fashion industry.

(00:34:06) - Fears and confidence killers. She is human and still has them today. Brandice talks about the importance of cliff jumping.

(00:37:55) - What she wishes she knew before starting her career. The importance of sales and marketing.

(00:40:19) - An example of a Failure she has experienced and how she learned from it. “I think it is better we quit something we know that we don’t love versus trying to force it to work.”

(00:44:05) - When she last celebrated herself.

(00:46:25) - The Fire. Brandice shares her go-to sources to re-ignite her flame.

(00:50:12) - The Fundamentals: 1 skincare, makeup, hair product and fashion essential. Brandice spills the tea on her faves.

00:54:00 - A personal note of advice to all listeners from Brandice. You are brave! Where to follow Brandice: @brandicedaniel, www.brandicedaniel.com, @harlemsfashionrow, www.harlemsfashionrow.com

(00:55:35) - The lightening round. Everyone’s favourite bit. A series of quick questions on popular culture.

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(00:08:52) - Exploring the meaning behind my guests’ names and their origination

(00:18:19) - Black beauty industry statistics extracted from this ESSENCE online article

(00:20:25) - Why interest in Black Beauty continues to rise within the Beauty industry. Itaysha touches on the rise of the indie beauty brands giving larger corporates a run for their money.

00:29:00 - Patricia shares how she felt when her agency made the decision to shorten her name on signing. So as not to confuse clients with another model on their books who was also a black model called Patricia: “Even if we have the same name and we come from the same place, we are different people”.

(00:30:56) - Patricia acknowledges the growth of black models booked for runway jobs & speaks on the lack of dark-skinned black models as inspiration for her, when she was growing up.

(00:34:35) - Confidence issues: Tippi on having a curvy figure.

(00:38:00) - Confidence issues: Patricia on being the tallest and darkest girl in school, being called “black charcoal” and almost bleaching her skin to fit society’s ideal of beauty.

(00:41:32) - My guests define what beauty should mean and what beauty means to them.

(00:44:27) - Itaysha and Tippi explore why there is so much power behind our beauty. A must-listen. Key buzzwords: authenticity, innate, royalty, dynamic, versatility, layers and diversity.

(00:50:39) - Itaysha and Tippi address the importance (or not) for photographers to capture subjects of colour and whether only black hair stylists can style black women’s hair.

(00:57:00) - Tippi’s experience backstage at Fashion Weeks styling the hair of model’s of colour.

(01:00:00) - Patricia’s negative experiences as a model backstage at Fashion Week and having to style her own hair for shows due to the lack of texture styling expertise backstage.

(01:02:00) - Guests spill the tea on their favourite beauty essentials.

(01:11:00) - Eavesdrop into this part to hear when our guests feel the most full of beauty.

(01:14:24) - Where to follow my guests. Tippi: tippishorter.com and @tippishorter; Itaysha: itayshajordan.com and @itayshaphoto Patricia: @akellopatricia

(01:15:53) - The lightening round. Everyone’s favourite bit. A series of quick questions on popular culture.

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(00:07:12) - Exploring the meaning behind both Diallo and Okemefuna’s African names and their experiences of having non-western names growing up.

(00:14:42) - Coronavirus vs COVID-19: the distinction.

(00:20:12) - CDC stat cited by Dr Okpara: Approx. 80% of those who contract the virus will have a mild/moderate response.

(00:22:30) - Dr Okpara walks us through the common and uncommon symptoms of infected COVID-19 patients.

(00:28:57) - Nic shares her experience of how she contracted the virus and how the symptoms showed us for her.

(00:38:58) - How the virus spreads.

(00:44:00) - Being quarantined with an infected person. Dr Okpara shares his self-quarantine process and how he has been protecting himself and his family from potentially being exposed to the virus.

(00:47:45) - Masks. Which ones and why.

(00:52:56) - Diallo Brooks hits on why the black community is vulnerable and therefore heavily impacted by COVID-19: “Choosing between a paycheck and protecting our health”.

(00:59:05) - Death toll of American Americans are disproportionally higher than any other race/ethnicity. The latest data from APM Research Lab.

01:00:00 - Diallo Brooks highlights the racial disparities that continue to exist in this country’s (the USA) structures, leaving a majority of African Americans vulnerable to these pandemics. What about hazard pay for those working on the frontlines?

(01:07:00) - Africa & COVID-19. The role of hydroxychloroquine; a malaria treatment. Dr Okpara shares why African Americans are more susceptible to this disease.

(01: 17:18) - Nicole raises the shame that comes along with being a COVID-19 patient.

(01:19:47) - My guests share their biggest adjustment since COVID-19 and the first thing they will do when this is eventually over.

(01:36:30) - The lightening round. Everyone’s favourite bit. A series of quick questions on popular culture.

For more information on today’s guests:

Follow Diallo Brooks on:
Twitter: @DKBrooks45
Instagram: @DialloBrooks
www.PFAW.org

Follow Dr Okem Okpara on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okemefuna.okpara
More about Austin Emergency Center

Follow Nicole Clark on:
Instagram: @nicworldwide

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(00:09:40) - We share our experiences of having Yoruba names

(00:17:35) - Why fitness should be a priority for women of color. It is not a luxury but a necessity

(00:23:55) - Debunking the myths. Kehinde shares those common concerns female clients have when they start training and why they don’t need to be concerns

(00:27:26) - How COVID-19 is impacting her business. Virtual training sessions vs in-person

(00:31:17) - Tips on how to keep fitness levels up during quarantine. Basic equipment for home workouts and where you can get them from. Perform Better https://www.performbetter.com and Dick’s Sporting Goods https://www.dickssportinggoods.com

(00:39:28) - Bodyweight vs weighted exercises

(00:41:19) - Alternative exercises for barbell workouts

(00:42:19 - Tips for those wanting to shed pounds and those who want to build mass

(00:48:15) - I talk about my dreamy power smoothie and Kehinde shares how to make it heartier. This is the vegan protein powder I use (and like a lot) from Organifi https://www.organifishop.com/products/organifi-complete-protein-meal-replacement-1-bottle

(00:52:52) - Kehinde shares her position on protein shakes and supplements. Focus on the low hanging fruit first. Sleep is key.

(00:55:17) - Hair. Working out and maintaining hairstyles. Choosing between health and working out. “I’m not choosing between my hair or my health. I’m gonna work out”.

(01:00:52) - Kehinde shares her recommendations on how to track progress in your body changes. Scales vs photos vs the way your clothes fit on your body

(01:03:11) - Working out during the menstrual cycle

(01:07:52) - Find out what keeps Kehinde motivated

(01:10:00) - Winding down and creating time for herself. Skincare rituals and being a plant mum.

(01:15:50) - Travel: Kehinde’s favourite travel destination to date and her future travel plans. Working out on vacation or nay.

(01:19:25) - Everyone’s favourite part. The lightning round.

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WHAT THE STATISTICS SAY

• A recent study shows that on average, remote employees are more productive and work 1.4 more days every month, or 16.8 more days every year, than those who work in an office.
• 50% of remote workers plan to be their own boss one day.
• Remote workers save an average of 408 hours, or 17 days a year from not having to commute to and from the office.
• Source: Airtasker | March 31st 2020

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Don’t dilute our rich, textured stories and the beauty behind our names.
You can’t call me Olu, Nina, or anything else, unless I offer it to you.
You cannot request to sub out my name for one familiar to you, just because it is easier for your tongue.

Sound familiar? Listen on….

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Listed as one of Refinery29's 20 Black Women You Need To Know Right Now, Stevona's Black Women Are For Grown Ups mantra (lovingly shortened by the people to #BWAFGU) is an inspiring life campaign born to lift and power-up the stories of women of color to the front, forever. Period.

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Both ladies are paving the way and turning heads everywhere they go. Its' no wonder they caught the attention of Janelle Monae who snapped the pair up and signed them to her label The Wondaland Arts Society.
Sought after by the likes of Vogue magazine and high end fashion designers this is a duo you want to know.

If you are looking for new music, be sure to get a hold of St. Beauty's EP 'Running to the Sun'. It's hard to put this one in a box; it doesn't fit any one genre of music. A few words that spring to mind to describe their sound are: Fluid | Space | (he)Art. You just have to listen for yourself.

St. Beauty on their 'Running to the Sun' EP:

"This project is just the beginning for us," said St. Beauty.  "We have so much more to say, and we're so excited to continue to share our story with the world. Thank you to Janelle Monáe and Wondaland for being such an inspiration and believing in our vision" 

A big thank you to both Alex and Isis V from St. Beauty for being our first muses of 2018.

Check out the podcast interview to get the lowdown and follow them on instagram at @stbeauty for more.

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Jamal proudly owns one of DC's most finest, newly renovated 5 star boutique salons, Lamaj in the City.

Get cozy with us in the Lounge as we get to Jamal more intimately.

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— Ashley Lee

Visiting me in the lounge this week is NYC-based colourist and editorial Texture Expert, Ashley Lee.

In this episode, Ashley shares tips for professional stylists who are not catering to textured clients, her work with social media influencers, her motivations and more.

GIRL BOSS IN THE MAKING.

AS QUOTED IN ELLE MAGAZINE, FAST COMPANY AND AS FEATURED IN TXTURE MAGAZINE.

2016 NEXTGEN ARTIST IN BEAUTY CHANGES LIVES.

SECRET: ASHLEY LEE ONCE HAD DREAMS OF BECOMING A VETERINARIAN AND A BALLERINA.

If you are looking for the future of the Texture hair industry, start with Ashley Lee (@alstyling) and be ready to be floored by her advanced colour techniques and transformations.

A true girl boss in the making currently meshing entrepreneurialism and education together with her Masters' Degree in Fashion Marketing and a die-hard advocate for elevating the level of professionalism within the Texture hair industry (yes!!!).

In episode 04, Ashley shares how she went from fired to enrolled into Cosmetology school the following week, discusses why it is important to your credibility as a stylist to consider saying "no" to clients (for the right reasons, obvs) and the necessity of mentorship.

Ashley Lee is officially #TLApproved. 

Press play and get to know Ashlee Lee more intimately and to experience her signature styles, you can find her at LW Salon, NYC (Midtown).

Don't forget to review, comment, like and share!

THE COOL BLAST ROUND

TL: Name someone who inspires you and you would love to work with.

AL: Beyoncé

TL: Name the Top 3 services your clients come to you for.

AL: 1. Balayage; 2. Textured blowout (silk press); 3. Textured cut

TL: Name one hair product your clients love and you cannot keep on your salon shelf.

AL: MIZANI's 25 Miracle Milk

TL: Name an app or digital service that helps you build your business or clientele.

AL: Swivel - great for natural clients looking for a texture stylist.

TL: What are the Top 3 products/tools you cannot travel without.

AL: 1. My blowdryer; 2. A Denman brush; 3. A wax for slicking down those flyaways.

For more, listen to the full podcast (top of this page).

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— Vernon François

Getting cozy with me in the lounge this episode is celebrity texture hair stylist VERNON FRANÇOIS! The time I spent with him recording this podcast was pure unadulterated fun.

Vernon and I once worked together briefly back in my MIZANI UK days; where I brought him on to join the panel in judging our Afro Look Awards (circa 2012) and look at him now. He. Is. Everywhere.

FROM HUDDERSFIELD, UK TO THE HOLLYWOOD RANKS

INTRODUCING THE HAIR-WORLD'S BRIGHTEST FIREWORK, LIGHTING UP TODAY'S TEXTURE INDUSTRY AND CURLY COMMUNITIES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC.

VERNON FRANÇOIS: creative director & founder of OWN NAME HAIRCARE & STYLING COLLECTION

His insanely talented fingers regularly court the textured tresses of all my women-crush-wednesdays (Lupita Nyong'o, Solange, Serena Williams, Elaine Welteroth, Susan Kelechi Watson and Ava Duvernay). He is fast becoming the go-to hair genius to single-handedly reinvent the looks our most-loved idols; drawing up a storm of attention towards his recently launch own-name collection along the way.

Reconnecting with him and sharing his story simply had to happen. Period.

In this episode, Vernon talks Dyslexia, being Lupita's BFF, and obviously his obsession with textured hair. Interviewing this dude was like hanging out with an old friend. His vibrant spirit is sure to keep you thoroughly entertained throughout. 

After I hit the 'stop record' button on my digital recorder, I left feeling a little more enthusiastic about our industry. Me on MIZANI and Vernon with his own product line, we both truly believe there is enough space for our brands to live side-by-side. Coming together to inspire, elevate and educate is the end goal and if we can do that collectively, that's no bad thing.

Vernon François is officially #TLApproved.

Press play and if you like it, go ahead - comment and share with other like-minded individuals.

Stay close to Vernon's work through Instagram, where he will bamboozle you with tons of exhilarating content that will make you wish you were curly (if you aren't already: @vernonfrancois

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MEET MANHATTAN'S MULTI-TALENTED TEXTURE POWERHOUSE:

REECE BROWN-WILLIS.

Photographer: K. Jonathan Park at RED VISUAL, NYC

Catch Reece if you can, because this powerhouse is going places and if you want to get into her books, you are going to have to keep up!

Named this month in Modern Salon's 2017 100 List of game changing beauty pros, a MIZANI Artist est. 2014, this year's America's Beauty Show NextGEN Artist and rated a 5 star hairstylist on hassle-saving Texture stylist booking app, SWIVEL (anyone used this yet? Tell me your experience. I wanna know!). Talk about industry acknowledgements!

Reece shares what drives the growth in her clientele bookings, her Top 3 signature service requests and the reason that keeps her keepin' on.

Daryce 'Reece' Brown-Willis is officially #TLApproved.

As Diddy once said, Press play.

Ogle her stunning avant-garde work below; presented at the 2017 ABS Beauty Changes Lives event and her Instagram page for her infamous before and after Texture Transformation boomerangs: @styledbyreece.

THE COOL BLAST ROUND

TL: Name the Top 3 services your clients come to you for.

DB-W: 1. Silk press blowout; 2. The Twistout; 3. Colour: balayage / highlights

TL: As a child, what was your dream job?

DB-W: An obstetrician!

TL: Name one product your clients love and you cannot keep on your shelf.

DB-W: MIZANI's 25 Miracle Milk

For more, listen to the full podcast (top of this page).

I would love to read your feedback and requests, so please leave a comment and subscribe and let's get you the content you want to read!

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From purchasing three of her prints 2 years ago, to vibing with her one-on-one in this episode despite the technical challenges (the internet did not want us to be great! but never fear, although not the best quality, we powered through with the podcast regardless via phone).

Debra shares with The Texture Lounge how she got started, what motivates her, who inspires her (can you guess?) and so much more.

Thank you Debra for being our first #TLMuse! 

Scope out just some of her work below and her Instagram page for much more @debracartwright.

THE COOL BLAST ROUND

TL: Name an artist you're inspired by and you are dying to meet.

DK: Wangechi Mutu

TL: As a child, what was your dream job?

DK: Animator

TL: Name the top 3 items you cannot work without.

DK: A mechanical pencil, a flat paintbrush and my watercolors.

For more, listen to the full podcast (top of this page).

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Finally, The Texture Lounge podcast series is here. I have been procrastinating on this for so long! Take a seat in my lounge as I attempt to bring you some audio content filled with interviews from successful individuals who are killing the Texture hair industry game, women at the top of their career game rockin' their Textured manes and words from the ones to watch. 

But first, an introduction...episode 00.

Original music by Ryan Little.

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