Podcasts about beauty industry

Today is a treat because we have founder and product developer Sarah Creal as our guest! You've heard us wax poetic about Sarah's namesake brand, but in this episode you'll get to learn how influential she truly is in the industry and how the products we use today are largely inspired by her creations. She explains the hardships that come with creating a brand focused on women 40+ and why she felt it was important to launch anyway, the five products she developed that are her holy grails (from Prescriptives to Tom Ford), how she got into the beauty industry with no experience, working with Victoria Beckham, “aging gracefully”, and what luxury means now in beauty. Shop this episodeWatch our episodes!CALL or TEXT US: 424-341-0426Instagram: @glossangelspod, @kirbiejohnson, @saratanTwitter: @glossangelespod, @kirbiejohnson, @saratanEmail: glossangelespodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beekman 1802's founders turned crisis into opportunity, building a $92 million skin care brand by starting small, staying disciplined, and leading with heart.For more on Beekman 1802 and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this episode of the Friends in Beauty Podcast, I'm so excited to sit down with Anastasia Georgievskaya, the brilliant CEO and co-founder of Haute AI, a cutting-edge beauty tech company backed by Ulta Beauty and part of the NVIDIA Startup Program.Haute AI is changing how we understand skin health and skincare through AI-powered skin analysis and the revolutionary SkinGPT aging model that shows how your skin might evolve over time. Anastasia and I dive into how AI is reshaping skincare, what this means for beauty pros and consumers, and how science and artistry can work together to create better beauty experiences.We talk about the future of AI in beauty, the importance of ethical data use through Haute AI's Skin Atlas technology, and how AI can help people detect early signs of skin health and aging. Anastasia also shares her insights on how small beauty businesses and professionals can start integrating AI tools to grow, streamline their work, and stay ahead of trends.This is a powerful and inspiring conversation that every beauty lover, founder, and creative should hear.

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of What Gives, host Erin Satzger sits down with Logan Hines, Owner and President of Mitchell's Salon & Day Spa, to talk about legacy, leadership, and love — both for people and for a family business that's been serving Greater Cincinnati since 1983.Logan shares the moving story of how her mother founded Mitchell's over 35 years ago, building it into a trusted, family-like community that celebrates beauty in every form. Following her mother's recent passing, Logan reflects on stepping into leadership and carrying forward her mother's mission — giving clients time to lighten their spirits and empowering employees to embrace their creativity.Now leading five locations and two brands, Logan is guiding Mitchell's into a new era while preserving its heart and heritage. Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and the beauty of honoring the past while shaping the future.

We're continuing our visit with Aubri Thompson, a Christian business owner whose company is on a mission -- to inspire and enable sustainable living, and to change the beauty industry! Now, that might sound bold, and the industry might even seem contradictory to her walk with God. But, listen to how Aubri explains her faith, as well as her business practices…

Send us a messageIt's official, we've entered our villain era

Ep # 94 : Plant-Based Entrepreneur Niehla Ollie: From Beauty Industry to Homegirl's HummusThis episode was recorded live on Saturday November 8th at Lumpen Radio in Chicago.Summary of the episodeThis week on noseyAF, I'm talking with Niehla Ollie, the creative behind Homegirl's Hummus. After more than 20 years in the fashion and beauty world, Niehla had a late-night hummus craving in Milwaukee that changed everything. What started as a midnight snack moment turned into a full-on business built on flavor, love, and community.Niehla opens up about loss, faith, and starting over, and we get into how food can heal and connect people. She shares what it's really like to run a food business, the importance of taking care of yourself while chasing your dreams, and why kindness and a good dip go a long way.This conversation is full of heart, hustle, and hummus — the perfect combo.Chapters:• 00:17 - A New Beginning• 06:08 - The Origin of Homegirls Hummus• 12:40 - Transitioning to Healthy Eating Choices• 19:22 - Navigating Dietary Restrictions During the Holidays• 22:57 - The Journey of Homegirl Hummus• 32:06 - The Importance of Self-Care• 45:34 - Faith and Business: A Journey of Hope• 52:15 - Exploring the World of Hummus and Beyond• 56:11 - The Art of EntertainingWhat we talk aboutHow Niehla went from beauty industry boss to hummus queenThe story behind Homegirl's Hummus and how it started with one late-night cravingWhy plant-based eating doesn't have to be complicated or boringHandling grief, growth, and entrepreneurship with faith and flavorThe real talk about self-care and staying grounded while building something newAll about… Niehla OllieYou're gonna love Niehla Ollie (aka Niehla O). After more than 20 years in fashion and beauty, she wanted to help people feel good from the inside out. That led her to create Homegirl's Hummus, a plant-based brand that's all about community, creativity, and connection.She started making hummus for friends in L.A. back in 2016, and after moving back home to Chicago — and through some major life changes — she decided to go all in. In 2021, Homegirl's Hummus was officially born, spreading love (and hummus) one scoop at a time.Connect with NiehlaInstagram: @homegirlshummusWebsite: homegirlshummus.comMore ways to connect:EmailCheck out my workFollow me on InstagramListen to more episodesSupport & FeedbackShare noseyAF with friendsRate & Review the ShowBuy Pins & Prints | Shop ArtEpisode CreditsProduced, Hosted, and Edited by Me, Stephanie (teaching myself audio editing!)Lyrics: Queen LexInstrumental: Freddie Bam Fam

We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us!Here's a stark warning for beauty executives: Brands that cling to traditional manufacturing models are already obsolete—they just don't know it yet. The challenges facing beauty CMOs are hitting critical mass: It's not just driving growth, it's how to get to market at the speed of culture shifts and keep up digitally and socially. Lauren Thermos is General Manager of Atelier, an Australian product innovation studio dedicated to bringing new products to market faster and better, and a self-described disrupter. Join Lauren and Shelley as they reveal the weak spots of a trendy business where many beauty brands are off trend out of the gate to meet the demands of savvy customers. They discuss the antiquated 18-to-36-month product development cycle, agentic AI (Chat GPT) marketing that shrinks the time between researching and making a decision to buy and will eliminate the need for traditional advertising; and the rise of TikTok as the marketing and product launch platform of choice for young consumers. They also pull back the curtain on why fast-tracked indie creators and celebrity-founded beauty brands are eclipsing many traditional beauty behemoths. Listen in on this provocative conversation about the next frontier of the beauty business.Special Guest: Lauren Thermos, General Manager at AtelierFor more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com, where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

From Big Teams to One-On-One Leadership

What would our industry look like if every artist—no matter their skin tone, background, or story—felt fully seen and celebrated? In this episode, I sit down with Jazmin Riorden, a lash artist, educator, and founder of the Melanated Lash Network, to talk about what inclusion really looks like in the beauty space. We go deep into what it means to make every client, student, and pro feel seen, valued, and welcomed—and how one small ripple of awareness can create a much bigger wave of change. This one's honest, eye-opening, and full of perspective we all need to hear.Jazmin shares her journey from the military to aesthetics, how she discovered her voice for advocacy, and why she believes representation is essential. Together, we unpack what beauty professionals can do (and stop doing) to build a more inclusive, connected community. You'll leave this episode inspired to reflect and take action. Hit play now and let's be the ones who do better because we can.In this episode, you'll hear:What inspired Jazmin to speak up about diversity in the lash industryHow her military background shaped her leadership and resilienceWhat are the biggest visibility gaps for BlPOC beauty pros?What language and habits unintentionally make clients feel excluded?How can lash artists make their spaces more inclusive right now?The mission behind the Melanated Lash Network?How giving (and receiving) grace can move the entire industry forwardFollow @beautynartistry and @melanatedlashnetwork to connect with Jazmin and learn more.More about Jazmin:Jazmin has been lashing for 8 years and has owned Beauty N Artistry for the last 5 years. She started in the beauty industry 13 years ago doing makeup and after leaving the military went to esthetics school. She has a passion for helping to diversify the beauty industry to make all people feel seen and loved! Connect with Jazmin:Jazmin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautynartistry/Melanated Lash Network Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanatedlashnetwork/Where We Can Connect:Let's be friends on Instagram! www.instagram.com/xoericaschramm

Video version of this episode is here TakeawaysPatrick Sobral's journey reflects the importance of connections in professional growth.Transitioning to consulting offers unique challenges and opportunities.Innovation should be a collective effort within organizations.Startups must be patient and strategic when working with larger companies.Foresight methodologies are essential for navigating uncertainty in business.The consumer journey has evolved significantly with the rise of AI.Education is crucial for consumers navigating product choices.Managing information overload is a challenge in the age of AI.Creating memorable experiences is key to successful consulting.Continuous learning and sharing knowledge are vital for professional development. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Patrick Sobral's Journey04:01 Transitioning to Consulting: A New Perspective06:29 Overcoming Innovation Silos in Corporates09:10 Advice for Startups Collaborating with Corporates11:34 Navigating the Innovation Landscape14:07 Upskilling in a Rapidly Changing Environment16:46 The Evolving Consumer Journey in Beauty and Beyond29:40 Memorable Experiences in Consulting32:40 The Importance of Community and Conversations33:56 Mindfulness in Professional Interactions36:32 Insights Beyond Data39:17 Embracing Uncertainty and Future Thinking41:00 Rapid Fire Insights47:29 Advice for Knowledge Sharing and Learning

Send us your feedback about the episode!Today on Beauty Behind the Brand, Nicole dives into one of the most overlooked parts of running a spa or salon — your numbers.

Welcome to PRINTED: Outloud Your weekly listen to the stories redefining beauty, straight from the pages of salon‑pro‑first magazine.If you already get PRINTED delivered, you know the gist - this is news so good, we had to print it. But you're busy, so whether you're behind the chair, behind the scenes, or just on the go, this is your chance to catch up on the conversations and trends making waves in our community, in audio form.Our very first issue, launches a new era of beauty storytelling: celebrating the pros, founders, and creators who refuse to follow the rules. With the theme “They Told Me Not To,” this inaugural edition highlights the visionaries who've gone against the grain to build something extraordinary.Through it all, the issue asks one big, question: What happens when beauty professionals stop asking for permission?https://www.thetease.com/printed-by-thetease-com/More from TheTease.com:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readthetease/ (readthetease)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volumeupbythetease/ (volumeupbythetease)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyehlers/ / (KellyEhlers)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eljeffreycraig/ (eljeffreycraig)Web: https://www.thetease.com (TheTease.com)Email: VolumeUp@TheTease.comCredits: Volume Up is a Tease Media production. This episode was produced by Monica Hickey and Madeline Hickey. James Arbaje is our editor and audio engineer. Thank you to our creative team for putting together the graphics for this episode.

Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order*: https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/WHATMYSISSAID2025 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountGo to https://zocdoc.com/WHATMYSISSAID to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. #sponsoredWhat's up Kavari Krew!! Welcome to What My Sis Said Podcast hosted by sister's Nazanin and Yasmin Kavari ♡Young Couture herself, Marjan Tabibzada, joins the sisters to tell all about her iconic wedding, confidence, culture, and creating her own lane in the beauty world.“What My Sis Said” is a podcast where sisters- Nazanin and Yasmin Kavari, dive deep into the many aspects of womanhood. We share personal stories, discuss relatable topics, and create a sense of sisterhood for the listeners. From navigating career aspirations in social media to embracing self-care rituals, they explore it all! Tune in every Tuesday for laughs, insights, and the comforting feeling of knowing you're never alone on this journey called life. You'll always have your good sis!

She's witnessed the biggest shift in beauty media history - from magazines dictating trends to 10-year-olds demanding retinol. This week on The Formula, former Elle Australia Editor-in-Chief Justine Cullen breaks down the "Sephora tween" phenomenon reshaping the beauty industry. We're exploring how kids as young as 9 skip skincare basics for complex routines, why brands chase tweens with $60-100 products (pushing adults toward $250 lipsticks), and the rise of birthday parties at beauty stores. Justine reveals how the pandemic created mini skincare experts, why teenagers now say "do my skincare" when stressed, and her predictions for this youth-obsessed beauty world. Get ready for serious insights into how capitalism is targeting childhood - and what it means for beauty's future. PRODUCTS MENTIONED: Justine Cullen Substack, 'Late-Night Snacking' Justine Cullen Podcast, 'The Late Night Snacking Trivia Game' Justine Cullen Ulta's Birthday Parties For Tweens Drunk Elephant Sol de Janeiro Ulta Kids Parties Sincerely Yours Skincare FOR MORE WHERE THIS CAME FROM: Watch & Subscribe on YouTube – Watch this episode, tonight at 7pm! Catch it here. Follow us on Instagram: @youbeautypodcast Follow us on TikTok: @youbeautypod Join our You Beauty Facebook Group here For our product recommendations, exclusive beauty news, reviews, articles, deals and much more - sign up for our free You Beauty weekly newsletter here Subscribe to Mamamia here GET IN TOUCH: Got a beauty question you want answered? Email us at youbeauty@mamamia.com.au or send us a voice note on Instagram! You Beauty is a podcast by Mamamia. Listen to more Mamamia podcasts here. CREDITS: Hosts: Kelly McCarren Guest: Justine Cullen Producer: Sophie Campbell Audio Producer: Tegan Sadler Video Producer: Artemi Kokkaris Just so you know — some of the product links in these notes are affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you buy through them. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, and it helps support the show. Happy shopping! Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this sacred, intimate and expansive episode, we sat down for what started as a casual life check-in and a plan for a totally different topic, and ended up in the ethereal - a raw, real conversation about spiritual awakenings, feminine energy, and finding purpose in both life and business. This is the type of conversation you'd hear between us if you were a fly on the wall and we are honored to let you take a front row seat to the depth of our connection in conversation.We open up about our own awakening journeys, how it's shaped the way we lead, coach, and connect, and why the beauty industry is shifting toward a more feminine, intuitive energy.We'll share grounded advice for anyone walking through a season of deep transformation—how to find your tribe, stay in light energy, and balance the dance between masculine “doing” and feminine “being.”We also dive into:• The connection between spirituality and your beauty career• Practical ways to uncover your purpose• How feminine energy is redefining leadership and esthetics• Podcast and book recommendations for spiritual growth• And how to navigate the highs and lows of awakening with graceThis one is full of heart, soul and the kind of depth that reminds you—you're not alone on your journey.Find us:Instagram @thebeyondesthetics @the_esthi_coach @sweetcheeksuniversityColor FuseGlassy BlushBalm Stick: https://www.hauslabs.com/products/color-fuse-glassy-blush-balm-stickCovergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara: https://a.co/d/8ikLCtc

Send us your feedback about the episode!Today, Nicole dives into a must-listen topic for every spa & salon owner: cancellation policies. As we head into the busy season, it's more important than ever to stand your ground and stick to your policies — it can save you money, time, and a serious headache down the road.Nicole shares:Why knowing your worth mattersHow to stop people-pleasing and enforce boundariesSimple scripts you can use to confidently communicate policieTips from 10+ years of running a successful spaThis episode is all about protecting your time, your team, and your bottom line. Let's dive in and set your business up for a smooth, profitable season! Subscribe for New Episodes Every Tuesday!Be sure to check us out on all our socials:Follow on Instagram: @beautybrandpodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/beautybrandpodcast/Subscribe on Youtube: @beautybehindthebrandpodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEl-qd38M4OgL8IghZ8ga9gWebsite:https://www.miskoka.com/beauty-behind-the-brandFollow our host on Instagram: @nicmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/nicmanion/

This week on Uncensored, we reveal our *hot* takes on bathhouses and spa rituals, diving in on the good, the weird, and the newsworthy (two words: damp hay). We also sit down with Kaitlyn Shin – Director of NU28 Medical Aesthetics – to unpack the global fascination with Korean skincare, and the trending treatments millennials and Gen Z are travelling the globe for. For those who can’t just jet off to Seoul (read: most of us), Kaitlyn shares her tips for recreating a Korean spa experience at home, and maintaining consistent results. Plus, we chat about the cult K-beauty products writer Juna Xu has been using for over 10 years. Are they actually worth the hype? If you’ve ever thought about turning on-the-go makeup application into an extreme sport, tune in until the end. Just don’t try this at home. Everything mentioned: Beauty IQ article: https://www.adorebeauty.com.au/beautyiq/skincare/best-korean-skincare-to-shop/ Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 300 Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.auDisclaimer | Privacy PolicySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From building a billion-dollar beauty empire to starting over at 60, Bobbi Brown's story is one of grit, grace, and growth…but behind her success lies a deep journey of reinvention. Bobbi opens up to Hoda about her mother's struggle with mental illness, her unlikely path to becoming a world-renowned makeup artist, and the moment she walked away from the brand that bore her name. She shares how she rebuilt her life and career with her clean beauty line, Jones Road, what keeps her grounded as a mother and grandmother, and why she believes the best chapters don't end with success, but begin when you find the strength to start over. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Deborah Pagani (click here to visit Deborah Pagani Beauty) Deborah Pagani, founder and CEO of Deborah Pagani Beauty, joins Dr. Lara Devgan for an insightful discussion about her remarkable journey through the beauty industry—from her beginnings as a hair colorist to her evolution into a renowned jewelry designer and the visionary entrepreneur behind a modern lifestyle and haircare brand. Together, they explore how creativity, adaptability, and self-expression shaped her brand's DNA and personal philosophy.Beyond one woman's success story, this conversation sheds light on the intersection of art, business, and identity in the evolving world of beauty. It's a candid look at what it means to build something authentic in an industry that constantly reinvents itself—and how visionaries like Pagani redefine luxury by merging artistry with accessibility, inspiring a new generation of creators to take bold, beautiful risks. Beauty Bosses Podcast RSS

Melissa shares her powerful story with us. She owns a Holistic Spare for Stressed Women & Body + Energy Healing, while she is also trail blazing for the beauty industry as a whole, guiding visionary estheticians to build soul-led holistic practices. *What is holistic skin care?? *How can we weave the SOUL back into the beauty industry*Beauty Rituals vs. 'routines'*Finding her people & how to find yours*Building a spiritual biz - how to and what that looks like *BE what you want and watch it come in*Confidence - how to create it + self worthAnd so much more! Find and connect with Melissa here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/radiance_sanctuary/The Summit: https://theamyturner.com/be-the-catalyst-womens-summit/Website: www.radiancehealers.comCourses: https://www.radiancehealers.com/academyFollow Samantha on Social Media:Instagram - @samanthanivens⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/samanthanivens/⁠⁠⁠Facebook - Samantha Nivens⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/samantha.nivens.9?mibextid=LQQJ4d⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube - Samantha Nivens⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq3AGBxfZf1LSrbMKhpBxJA/featured⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Collective -created for women who are ready to elevate their energy, identity, and life—together.For just $29/month, you get:

Deborah Pagani (click here to visit Deborah Pagani Beauty) Deborah Pagani, founder and CEO of Deborah Pagani Beauty, joins Dr. Lara Devgan for an insightful discussion about her remarkable journey through the beauty industry—from her beginnings as a hair colorist to her evolution into a renowned jewelry designer and the visionary entrepreneur behind a modern lifestyle and haircare brand. Together, they explore how creativity, adaptability, and self-expression shaped her brand's DNA and personal philosophy.Beyond one woman's success story, this conversation sheds light on the intersection of art, business, and identity in the evolving world of beauty. It's a candid look at what it means to build something authentic in an industry that constantly reinvents itself—and how visionaries like Pagani redefine luxury by merging artistry with accessibility, inspiring a new generation of creators to take bold, beautiful risks. Beauty Bosses Podcast RSS

BIO Dawn Maloney boasts an illustrious career spanning over 29 years as a versatile makeup artist and esteemed educator across diverse realms, including beauty, fashion, television, print, film, bridal, image styling, and business. ​ In 1999, Dawn founded MakeupClasses.com, a pioneering venture aimed at empowering students worldwide through her Advanced Makeup Techniques Courses. Recognizing the need to demystify the beauty industry, Dawn inaugurated The Makeup Studio in 2021, dedicated to sharing her profound expertise in makeup artistry with individuals navigating the complexities of modern beauty standards. ​ Driven by her passion to help others unearth their inherent beauty, Dawn invites you to embark on a transformative journey under her guidance.   https://www.makeupclasses.com/

Kate Assaraf is a serial entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Dip Sustainable Hair Care, building a 7-figure beauty brand without Amazon, big-box retailers, or influencer gimmicks. Kate is also a Forbes columnist, and a mom of two who proves that entrepreneurship and motherhood can coexist without burnout—by prioritizing presence, purpose, and smart business choices. Kate has been featured in Allure, Cosmopolitan, Modern Salon, and The Unwash, was named NJ's Mompreneur of the Year (2024), and was honored as a “Woman of Courage” by Insigniam Quarterly. She's passionate about helping other moms in business build profitable brands without sacrificing their families, values, or sanity.

In this episode of Future Fuzz, Justin speaks with Liz McKeon, renowned salon business expert, bestselling author, and award-winning speaker, about building high-performance service businesses with empowered teams, robust cash flow, and work-life balance. Liz shares her journey from beauty professional to business turnaround expert, why emotional connections are central to customer retention, and how her latest venture, Aura 300, is leveraging AI to revolutionize the professional services industry. This conversation is packed with transformative insights for entrepreneurs aiming to scale sustainably while keeping their sanity.Guest BioLiz McKeon is a globally recognized salon business expert, author of the bestseller 30 Days to Beauty Business Success, and a highly sought-after international speaker. With a career spanning health clubs, spas, skincare centers, and distribution companies, Liz has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow businesses that are profitable, scalable, and built on strong team dynamics. She now runs a thriving coaching and training consultancy, specializing in turning around struggling service businesses. Her latest innovation, Aura 300, brings AI to the beauty and wellness industries with virtual agents that boost sales, fill scheduling gaps, and generate qualified leads.TakeawaysEntrepreneurs often lose sight of why they started; Liz helps them reconnect with their purpose.Emotional connection, not just product or service, drives client retention.Trust and relationship-building are foundational to impactful consulting.Staff motivation and owner mindset are more critical than spreadsheets.AI can fill operational gaps without replacing human staff.Adaptability is key: Post-COVID, leadership demands new emotional skill sets.Freelancing and four-day workweeks are redefining staffing norms.AI tools like Aura 300 can handle sales, rebooking, and lead gen automatically.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Liz McKeon 01:02 – From Business School to Beauty Industry 02:47 – Launching Multiple Ventures & Finding Her Calling 03:43 – Liz's Business Turnaround Philosophy 05:16 – Where Liz Starts with Struggling Businesses 06:44 – Working Beyond the Beauty Industry 07:47 – Retention Challenges in B2C & Liz's Advice 10:35 – The Power of Emotional Touchpoints in Customer Retention 12:10 – Introducing Aura 300: Emma, Yuki & Nami 15:22 – Filling White Space & Upselling with AI 17:58 – Resistance to Change & How AI Bypasses It 19:35 – AI Adoption & Post-COVID Market Shifts 22:03 – How Liz Predicted a Global Business Reset 24:24 – Liz's #1 Advice for Business Leaders Today 25:31 – New Skills Leaders Need to Thrive 26:47 – Where to Find Liz & Aura 300LinkedInFollow Liz McKeon on LinkedIn Follow Justin Campbell on LinkedIn

This week, the girls are joined by Arabelle Sicardi, writer, image theorist, and author of The House of Beauty: Lessons from the Image Industry. Lola and Meagan confess the cosmetic procedures they've each had, and Arabelle explores how the beauty industry preys on our deepest fears, giving us a false sense of control and training us to worship ideals that are impossible to reach. They reflect on the high rates of plastic surgery in Utah and the LDS church, the gendered differences between the beauty industry and biohacking, and the relationship of beauty to power. Arabelle breaks down the cultiness of influencer brand trips, Coco Chanel's forgotten Nazi ties, and how easy it can be to isolate in luxury, detaching from the unseen global exploitation within the beauty industry. Plus: why beauty's true value lies not in perfection, but in human connection. SOURCES: The House of Beauty: Lessons from the Image Industry Arabelle SicardSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Few founders have reshaped South Africa's beauty industry like Mathebe Ngwenya. What began as a digital platform connecting customers to beauty services has evolved into Beauty on TApp — a thriving online retailer and a growing network of four brick-and-mortar stores across the country.It's a story of conviction, discipline, and belief in what's possible when you build with purpose.The journey from a single idea to a scaled retail presence has tested every part of Mathebe's leadership.Running both an online store and physical locations demanded sharper systems, stronger teams, and a deeper understanding of customer behaviour.“Walk-in retail is a completely different beast,” she said. “You can't hide behind a screen. The expectations, the stock control, the customer experience — it all has to be right, every day.”For Mathebe, expanding into retail wasn't just about growing sales — it was about building community. Each store is designed as a physical extension of Beauty on TApp's digital promise: a space where people can explore, ask questions, and feel seen.Mathebe's vision stretches beyond the four stores and e-commerce growth. She's building towards South Africa's first beauty multinational — one that reflects African creativity and excellence at a global scale.At the heart of that ambition is Pastry Skincare, her locally made line that responds directly to the needs of African skin. The challenge now is managing growth: deciding whether to scale Pastry independently or keep it exclusive to Beauty on TApp.“We've had retailers approach us to stock Pastry,” she shared. “It's exciting — but it's also about protecting the brand and ensuring we grow with intention.”Scaling has also reshaped how Mathebe leads. No longer the founder doing it all, she's learning to trust her team, delegate with confidence, and empower others to grow alongside the business.“Even in a beauty business, people still tend to trust men more,” she reflected. “So you have to prove yourself twice — once to the world, and once to yourself.”Her story is a reminder that building something meaningful takes more than great products — it takes people, purpose, and perseverance. Beauty on TApp's momentum has been powered by listening to its customers, refining its offering, and showing up — every single day.Mathebe Ngwenya isn't just building a beauty brand; she's shaping the future of South Africa's beauty ecosystem.Her dream is to prove that world-class brands can be built here — with local insight, local teams, and local heart.“I want young women to look at this and know it's possible,” she said. “We can build big, we can build here, and we can build for the world.”From Startup to ScaleBuilding for the FutureLessons in LeadershipThe Future of Beauty Is Local

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Fans of Justin Bieber have had plenty to talk about this past week with news and buzz surrounding both his professional ventures and personal life. Most notably Justin is gearing up for a return to the fashion world teasing his new apparel and accessories brand called SKYLRK. Throughout the past few days he has taken to Instagram to share photos of items such as sweatshirts beanies bold colored sunglasses phone cases and even platform slide sandals all branded with the SKYLRK logo according to AOL. Curiously some followers called attention to the fact that his blue phone case looks a lot like The Lip Case from Rhode the beauty label run by Justin's wife Hailey Bieber but Justin seems unbothered by any crossover. He also tagged SKYLRK's Instagram in his bio and though the brand page is still empty it has already begun to attract attention from fans eager for its official launch. The fashion move is significant not only because Justin's last clothing project Drew House earned cult status but also because the singer appears to be winding down activity with Drew finally passing the creative torch.Speaking of Hailey the Biebers made major headlines after her brand Rhode was acquired by beauty juggernaut e.l.f. Cosmetics for an eye-popping $1 billion according to an exclusive from People Magazine and confirmed by the Los Angeles Business Journal. Sources close to Justin told People that he is “beyond proud” of Hailey's achievement and has been supportive from day one watching firsthand as she built Rhode from scratch. He later shared a screenshot of her announcement on his Instagram stories which Hailey responded to with a heart emoji making their mutual support highly visible to their massive audiences. This merger not only cements Hailey as one of the beauty industry's new power players but also puts the Bieber name back in the business spotlight.As for public appearances there have not been major red carpet or concert events involving Justin himself in the past week and rumors of new music remain unconfirmed. Speculation swirled online about possible collaborations after his posts about fashion and fans remain hopeful for another album but there is no official word from his team or any trade publications. On social media Justin remains active mostly in support of Hailey's big Rhode deal and teasing SKYLRK content to his forty million plus Instagram followers sending both brand and relationship gossip into overdrive. For now all eyes remain on the official launch details for SKYLRK and any hint of Justin's next musical move while the Biebers enjoy one of their biggest business weeks yet.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

What happens when an ex-investment banker builds one of the most disruptive products in the beauty industry?Lewis Farsedakis, Founder & CEO of Blinc Inc., joins me to share the extraordinary journey of how he invented tubing mascara — a smudge-proof, flake-proof formula that changed the game for millions. But this story goes way beyond cosmetics. From privatizing telecoms in post-Soviet Eastern Europe to launching a clean skincare brand and shaping the future of ethical beauty, Lewis's path is full of lessons in vision, grit, and timeless innovation.In this episode, we explore how radical thinking, mentorship, and obsession with solving problems led Lewis to build one of Sephora's top-selling products — and how he's gearing up for an even bigger innovation.

In 2019 Auckland mother of three Zandalee Matene was facing unemployment. Fast forward six years, and Zandalee has her own business and has just made history by becoming the first first Pacific recipient of a special award in the beauty industry She won the TAIEA award at the recent 2025 NZ Lash Industry Awards, given to an individual who uplifts others and leads with integrity and pride. Zandalee Matene joins Jesse Mulligan

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a futuristic buzzword – it's already shaping the way cosmetics are researched, formulated, and launched. In this episode of Green Beauty Conversations, Formula Botanica CEO Lorraine Dallmeier talks to Hejab Malik, co-founder of Potion AI – a San Francisco-based technology company with over 10,000 global users. Together, they explore how AI is already embedded in beauty R&D, what it can (and can't) do, and whether it will ever replace the cosmetic chemist. If you want to know how AI might transform your own formulation process – and how to stay ahead – you won't want to miss this fascinating conversation. Special offer for listeners: Get 10% off a Potion subscription using the code 'FORMULABOTANICA'.   Free Resources Free formulation course | Green Beauty Conversations Podcast | Blog | YouTube Socials: Formula Botanica on Instagram | Lorraine Dallmeier on Instagram  

In episode 130 of The Prakhar Gupta Xperience, Ghazal Alagh, co-founder of Mamaearth, Shark Tank India judge, and one of India's most inspiring entrepreneurs, joins the conversation to share how she built a brand with purpose from the very beginning. She talks about the challenges women entrepreneurs face, the lessons she learned while growing her business, and her journey of carving her own path in the startup world.Recording Date: August 19, 2025This is what we talked about:00:00 - Intro01:06 - Does Money Bring Satisfaction03:38 - Hard truth about being an Entrepreneur06:21 - “49 Out of 50 Manufacturers Rejected Me”09:15 - Finding Your WHY14:35 - Reality of Skincare Industry17:30 - Solving Skincare for India18:06 - Traits of an Entrepreneur20:57 - Reviving the Artist Within23:42 - How she started Mamaearth27:25 - The Fear of Failure30:33 - Mamaearth's Bestselling Product34:36 - The Mindset of the Indian Consumer38:57 - How Global Brands Cheated Us40:56 - The Rise of Sunscreen44:38 - AI's Impact on Business53:50 - Next Big Business Opportunities in India1:03:31 - How to Build a Global Brand1:09:20 - Challenges in Professional Life1:20:01 - Advice for Young Women Entrepreneurs1:29:39 - The Role of her husband1:38:29 - Ghazal's Artistic Side

Kopari's VP built an eight-figure influencer strategy. Discover her strategy for creating content flywheels using long-term thinking over big budgets.For more on Kopari Beauty and show notes click here.  Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

This episode we're amped to talk about taxes. That's because new U.S. laws benefit both salon owners and stylists. Blake brings in Chris Wittitch, a CPA and partner at Boyum Acounting, to break it all down. They chat about the exciting new FICA tax tip credit now available to the beauty industry and what salon owners need to know to take full advantage of it. They also touch on the new tax-free tips for service providers and discuss the impact of digital tipping platforms like Venmo and PayPal. Tune in to get all the insights straight from an expert and make sure you're maximizing these new tax benefits!MORE RESOURCESComplete guide to tax reporting for salonsNo Tax on Tips guide for salon employeesFind more guides and learn how your salon company can work with Chris Wittitch at salon.cpa00:00 Introduction00:33 Meet the expert: Chris Whittich, Summit's right-hand accountant01:10 Understanding the FICA tip credit04:41 Salon owners: Maximizing the FICA tip Credit13:58 Tax-Free Tips: What service-providers need to know24:22 Impact of digital tipping and 1099-K reporting28:38 Conclusion and what happiness means to Chris Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.

Get a Virtual Assistant https://keap.page/tjb048/elevate-strategic-partnership.htmlSend me a DM "GROW" on IG ⁠instagram.com/jenniferjadealvarez⁠ to get your FREE copy of The Ultimate Salon Growth Blueprint: Systems, Sales, and Scaling for SuccessMYA- Lead Generation Quiz https://joinmya.com/meetings/hannah-kipp/mya-virtual-tour-jennifer-alvarez Use code JA2FREE for 2 months free Join the free Facebook group to join like minded beauty pros! ⁠www.Facebook.com/groups/salonandsuitebusiness⁠Podcast Guest- Shawna Murphyhttps://www.stylesmartva.comIn this episode, we delve into the transformative role of virtual assistants in the beauty industry. Discover how these digital helpers are revolutionizing customer service, streamlining operations, and enhancing the overall client experience. From booking appointments to personalized beauty advice, virtual assistants are becoming indispensable tools for beauty professionals and enthusiasts alike. Join us as we explore the future of beauty, where technology and creativity intersect to create a more efficient and personalized industry. Tune in to learn how virtual assistants are not just a trend, but a vital component in the evolution of beauty services.Keywordsvirtual assistant, beauty industry, salon management, delegation, customer service, Style Smart VA, business growth, technology, AI, client retentionSummaryIn this episode of the Beauty Business Game Changer podcast, host Jennifer Alvarez speaks with Shawna Murphy, founder of Style Smart VA, about the transformative role of virtual assistants in the beauty industry. Shawna shares her journey of starting Style Smart VA out of necessity during the pandemic and discusses the importance of delegation, customer service, and the unique challenges faced by salon owners. The conversation explores how virtual assistants can enhance client experiences, improve business efficiency, and ultimately drive revenue growth. Shawna emphasizes the need for salon owners to embrace technology while maintaining the human touch in their services, and she provides insights on how to effectively integrate virtual assistance into salon operations.TakeawaysVirtual assistants can significantly improve client communication and booking efficiency.Delegation is crucial for salon owners to focus on high-value tasks.Understanding the unique needs of the beauty industry is essential for virtual assistants.The deskless model can enhance customer service and reduce overhead costs.Building a strong partnership with a virtual assistant is key to success.AI can assist but cannot replace the human touch in client interactions.Regular follow-ups with leads can convert potential clients into bookings.Marketing strategies should include reaching out to past clients for re-engagement.Training virtual assistants is necessary for them to understand the business.Small adjustments in processes can lead to significant improvements in business operations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Virtual Assistance in the Beauty Industry02:51 Shawna's Journey: From Stylist to Entrepreneur06:01 The Importance of Client Communication09:12 Delegation: The Key to Business Growth12:06 Differentiating Style Smart VA14:54 The Deskless Revolution in Salons17:56 Enhancing Customer Experience with Virtual Assistants20:56 Return on Investment: Maximizing Business Efficiency28:11 Enhancing Guest Experience with Virtual Assistants28:58 Strategies for Salon Growth Using Virtual Assistants31:13 Leveraging Social Media for Client Engagement32:49 The Importance of Lead Follow-Up33:56 Upselling and Client Retention Strategies37:30 The Role of AI in Business Operations39:08 Balancing Technology and Human Interaction43:16 Building Strong Partnerships in Business46:20 Identifying the Right Fit for Virtual Assistance

Janki Lalani Gandhi spent nearly two decades in investment banking, advising founder-led brands like Supergoop, ILIA, Paige, and ALC before making a bold transition outside of corporate finance. Her career has earned her recognition as one of the Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A and a spot on WWD's Top 40 Under 40 in fashion and beauty.In this episode, Janki shares what she has learned along the way, from navigating male-dominated rooms to making high-stakes decisions without a playbook. She's built a leadership style that doesn't rely on being the loudest voice in the room.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction[09:04] Lessons from early years in investment banking[12:38] Frameworks for assessing new opportunities[15:42] Janki's approach to high-stakes decisions with confidence[17:56] Leadership lessons and finding her own style[20:34] Staying grounded through family and personal values[23:44] Navigating motherhood, career, and the juggle[29:02] Advice for first-time founders entering competitive industries[31:46] The future of consumer brands, tech, and AILearn more about Janki by following her on LinkedIn.Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindsetwww.makersmindset.com

On this episode of the Friends in Beauty podcast I welcome Maude Okrah Hunter to the Friends in Beauty guest chair. Maude is an entrepreneur who is passionate about bringing solutions to underserved markets. She has over 12 years of experience working in strategy with startups and Fortune 500 companies. She is the Founder and CEO of BBR (Black Beauty Roster). Black Beauty Roster is a digital DE&I platform that connects the TV, Film & Editorial world with hairstylists and makeup artists trained in textured hair and darker complexions while also increasing education around textured hair and darker complexions to the industry at large. BBR has worked with industry leading companies like Warner Bros Discovery, Walt Disney, Amazon Studios, L'Oreal, NYFW, IMG and more. She has been featured in Forbes, Inc, Variety, Hollywood Reporter, Allure,and Insider. She is also the owner of Beauty Expense - an app that helps creatives manage their expenses and business. She received the Women's Ceiling Crashers award from AT&T. Maude has been appointed Commissioner for DC's Commission on Fashion Arts and Beauty and also is a member of the Textured Hair Coalition. Maude is Ghanaian American and originally from Boston, MA. She is an alumnus of Emerson College.Enjoy this episode!!Leave us a 5 star review and share this episode with a friend or 2 or 3.info@friendsinbeauty.comGET A PEEK INSIDE OF BEAUTYPRO FUNNELS HEREhttps://www.getbeautyprofunnels.com/friendsSHOP MENTED COSMETICS: https://www.mentedcosmetics.com/akua-robinson

Send me a DM "GROW" on IG ⁠instagram.com/jenniferjadealvarez⁠ to get your FREE copy of The Ultimate Salon Growth Blueprint: Systems, Sales, and Scaling for SuccessMYA- Lead Generation Quiz https://joinmya.com/meetings/hannah-kipp/mya-virtual-tour-jennifer-alvarez Use code JA2FREE for 2 months free Join the free Facebook group to join like minded beauty pros! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1ApEdFj3ba/?mibextid=wwXIfrHeather Spencerhttps://stan.store/heatherspencer?fbclid=PAdGRleAMkNkdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpxk535xpGN0RWxny9qWRyJ5kzYtzGANTUADkQRldbYTB5D0PGSDurAs6kouz_aem_ql8WOhmFAY6w4Y1E4wlZrwKeywordsleadership, salon ownership, beauty industry, coaching, empowerment, team culture, business growth, salon management, self-leadership, mentorshipSummaryIn this episode, Jennifer Alvarez interviews Heather Spencer, a seasoned salon owner and leadership coach, discussing the essential elements of effective leadership in the beauty industry. Heather shares her journey from being a stylist to a salon owner, the challenges she faced, including a painful walkout, and the lessons learned about self-leadership, team empowerment, and creating a positive salon culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity, mentorship, and the need for salon owners to develop their leadership skills to foster a thriving business environment.TakeawaysYou're never at the mercy of the variables around you.Growth happens when you're lying flat on the floor.You need grit and tenacity to be a great salon owner.Lead yourself first before leading others.Praise loudly and reprimand quietly.Empower your team to find their own solutions.Clarity comes before systems.You have to continue to reevaluate your business.It's not just about being the answer, but guiding others.Difficult conversations are necessary for team credibility.Chapters00:00 Heather Spencer's Journey in the Beauty Industry04:45 Overcoming Challenges: The Pain of a Walkout10:06 Leadership Lessons Learned from Adversity17:40 Building a Leadership Circle: Strengths and Weaknesses21:16 Transitioning from Stylist to Salon Owner25:51 Developing Leadership Within the Team30:25 Creating Effective Systems and Processes38:15 Navigating Difficult Conversations as a Leader43:30 Final Thoughts: Grit and Tenacity in Leadership46:25 Introduction to Salon Growth Strategies46:53 Coaching and Support for Salon Owners47:20 Inspiration and Community Engagement

Coni takes you through five murder cases in the beauty industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The beauty industry had an eventful summer marked by changing retailer strategies, stark revenue tumbles and a flurry of pricey acquisitions.  In this special episode of The Glossy Beauty Podcast, reporters Lexy Lebsack, Emily Jensen and Sara Spruch-Feiner walk through the stories that defined the season.  This includes strategy shifts within retailers like Sephora, Ulta Beauty and Target, plus a look at disappointing revenue at conglomerates Shiseido and Estée Lauder Companies. The team also discusses the biggest acquisitions of the season — including Rhode, Dr. Squatch, Space NK and Touchland — and the tariff-related topics we're watching as fall approaches.  To start (0:53), Glossy's beauty team digs into the industry's biggest summer investments, led by E.l.f. Beauty's May purchase of Hailey Bieber's Rhode for $1 billion. The team also walks through CPG company Church & Dwight's $700 million purchase of trendy hand sanitizer brand Touchland in May and Unilever's June purchase of digitally-native men's care brand Dr. Squatch for $1.5 billion.   Beauty's top specialty retailers also had big summers. Sephora (8:37) is leaning deeper into a tried-and-true brand launch playbook: the celebrity artist. In the past few weeks, the retailer has rolled out new lines from celebrity makeup artists Hung Vanngo and Mary Phillips, plus hairstylist Chris McMillian.  Meanwhile, Ulta Beauty (18:17) had a whirlwind summer as new CEO Kecia Steelman executed her “Ulta Unleashed” comeback plan. Steelman, who was appointed CEO in January after more than a decade with the company, announced her plan in March as a response to the company's 1.9% year-over-year holiday sales tumble. Glossy's team unpacks all the changes, including the acquisition of U.K. retailer Space NK, international expansion into Mexico and the Middle East, and the end of Ulta's shop-in-shop with Target.  Finally (25:37), Glossy's team walks through can't-miss beauty conglomerate news: LVMH's splashy Louis Vuitton Beauté launch and Shiseido's sales tumble caused by Drunk Elephant's poor performance, plus turbulence at Waldencast and Estée Lauder Companies. Finally (36:27), team Glossy ends with a few autumn tariff predictions. 

DedCool founder Carina Chaz built a multimillion-dollar fragrance empire as a solo founder. Learn her strategies for bootstrapping growth alone and understanding when to seek outside investment.For more on DedCool and show notes click here.  Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

A member of the beauty industry since 2011, Colissa Nole recently left the salon company where she worked as a stylist and struck out on her own -- first in a booth rental space, and most recently as part of the Soul Collective. in Columbia, Missouri. While it's an adjustment becoming your own boss, Colissa says the change has allowed her to offer the best service of her career, and "fall in love with hair all over again." In this episode, Colissa Nole and host Blake Reed Evans discuss why she made the move, and the new challenges -- like having to schedule and reschedule all your own clients --   and joys -- like having old clients open up to you like never before. Also: Colissa is here to coach you through your own self-employment journey. This episode was originally published in December 2023. Contact Colissa to learn more about Summit's self-employed stylist subscription service: Colissa's InstagramColissa's page on Summitsalon.com Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.

On today's episode I am talking to Denise Vasi — actress, model, and founder of MAED Beauty. She shares her journey from the entertainment industry to building a clean beauty brand that stands out. Denise opens up about the inspiration behind MAED, the intentional choices that shaped her products, and what it's really like inside the prestigious Sephora Accelerator Program. She also talks candidly about overcoming self-doubt, balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, and the beauty rituals that continue to inspire her work. Enjoy!To connect with Denise on Instagram, click HERE.To connect with MAED on Instagram, click HERE.To shop MAED, click HERE. To connect with Siff on Instagram, click HERE.To connect with Siff on Tiktok, click HERE.To learn more about Arrae, click HERE. To check out Siff's LTK, click HERE.To check out Siff's Amazon StoreFront, click HERE. This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Save 15% off my favorite Red Light Face Mask from BON CHARGE by using code DREAMBIGGER at www.boncharge.comIf you have been eying their internet famous 12 piece cookware set, now is the perfect time to buy! You can shop Caraway Risk-Free! Enjoy fast, free shipping, easy returns, and a 30-day trial. Plus, if you visit Carawayhome.com/DREAMBIGGER you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase. This deal is exclusive for our listeners, so visit Carawayhome.com/DREAMBIGGER or use code DREAMBIGGER at checkout. Caraway. Non-Toxic cookware made modern.Visit well-reserved.com and use code DREAMBIGGER at checkout for $45 off your first booking.Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to TheRealReal.com/dreambiggerProduced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three Ships grew from $4,000 to $1M revenue in four years. Learn how the founders used retail partnerships, rebranding, and funding tactics to grow a beauty brand in a saturated market.For more on Three Ships and show notes click here.  Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

This week we discuss dangers in the beauty industry.  From a client's perspective, the issues might not be as severe, but the clinicians who must deal with chemicals day in and day out are at a greater risk.  The average woman uses 12 different beauty products every day — cleansers, conditioners, hair dyes, fragrances, skin care products, scented lotions, nail polish, and makeup, to name a few. Take a quick glance at the labels, and you'll see a cocktail of chemical components. You might assume that all these ingredients have been tested to ensure that they're safe for long-term use. That's not the case. At least on the federal level, no one is checking to make sure that the chemicals you're putting on your body are harmless. "Products are tested to make sure they don't cause short-term problems, such as skin irritation. But they're not tested for long-term safety," says Dr. Kathryn M. Rexrode, associate professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Women's Health at Harvard Medical School. The FDA steps in only if people actually complain about a product because they suspect it harmed them. Prior to that, the onus is on the company alone. ​​"Just because it's on your shelf doesn't mean that it's safe," says Tamarra James-Todd, the Mark and Catherine Winkler Assistant Professor of Environmental Reproductive and Perinatal Epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. With this in mind, women should take some time to consider what they're putting on their bodies each day and how it could potentially affect their health, she says. ​Hair dye and breast cancer There's reason for concern about many of the chemicals in popular personal care products on the market today. Case in point: a study published online Dec. 3, 2019, by the International Journal of Cancer found a link between hair dye and breast cancer. Women in the study who used permanent hair dye at least once in the 12-month period leading up to the study had a 9% higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who didn't use hair dye. And when the study authors broke the findings down by race, they found an even higher risk for African American women. Women in that group who used any permanent dye in the previous 12 months had a 45% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared with women who did not use hair dye. It didn't seem to matter how often or for how many years the women had used the dye. The findings were not surprising, says James-Todd. "We conducted a study a year ago in which we saw similar findings for hair dyes," she says. Some hair care products contain more than 5,000 chemicals, including some known to disrupt the body's natural hormone balance or to have cancer-causing effects in animals, according to study authors. Even so, studies looking at hair dyes in the past have been a mixed bag, with some finding links between health problems and dye use, and others finding no link. The differences found in more recent studies, says James-Todd, may be due to the fact that they are testing different products. Today's products use different chemicals than older formulations, which were not linked to health risks in some previous studies. ​Analyzing the study results Authors of the 2019 study drew on data from the Sister Study, which enrolled more than 50,000 women — the healthy sisters of women with breast cancer — ages 35 to 74. The study ran from 2003 to 2009 and used questionnaires, which were updated every three years. The surveys included questions about how often women used hair dye, as well as what colors and types of dye they used and whether it was permanent or semi-permanent. The study also used information gathered about other hair products, specifically chemicals used to straighten hair. The average follow-up period for the study was a little over eight years, and the current analysis included information gathered through 2016. The analysis also linked hair straightening products to a higher risk of breast cancer. These chemical products were associated with an 18% higher risk of breast cancer in women who used them in the 12 months before the study period. The more often women used straightener, the higher the risk. Women who used the products every five to eight weeks had a 31% higher risk of going on to develop breast cancer compared with nonusers. Although African American women in the study were more likely than others to use straighteners, the increase in breast cancer risk was similar for all races. There didn't appear to be an elevated breast cancer risk among women who used semi-permanent dyes, except among women who used the dyes at home. Researchers speculated this may be because they were more likely to get the dye on their skin, or to use the dyes in spaces that weren't well ventilated, leading them to breathe in higher amounts of chemicals. ​Change your beauty standard It may not be easy to let your hair go gray and to embrace your wrinkles, but it's a cultural shift women should consider. Being healthy is beautiful, and women should challenge the cultural standard of beauty. "It's about being comfortable with these changes and changing what's acceptable," says Tamarra James-Todd, assistant professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. "We should start teaching our children, teaching the next generation, that you should embrace the different stages of your life and not try to alter that." ​Interpreting the study results It's important to note that all the participants in the 2019 hair dye study were deemed to have a high risk for breast cancer because their sisters had the disease. This means that the findings might not apply to the average population. However, because this particular study already focused on a group of women that were at high risk because of family history, it's likely that the additional elevated risk seen in African American women was not due to genetic factors, says James-Todd. It's more likely to reflect environmental factors, such as differences in the chemicals used in products typically marketed to these women, she says. In the past, scientists have found higher concentrations of problematic hormone-disrupting chemicals in products marketed to African American women, said study authors. In addition, they noted that breast cancer rates have been increasing in recent years among African American women, who are more often diagnosed with aggressive types of breast cancer and are more likely to die from the disease. ​What to take from the study So, does this mean that women should stop using hair color entirely? Dr. Rexrode says it's too soon to say. "Over all, I don't tell people never to dye their hair again based on this paper. But a 40% increased risk is large enough for concern," she says. So, the findings also shouldn't be ignored, and the topic warrants more study. For the average woman in the study (that is, one whose sister had breast cancer), exposure to hair dye increased her baseline risk of breast cancer, she says. While there are certain breast cancer risk factors that you can't control, such as your family history or how old you were when you started menstruating, you can choose your hair products and how often you use them. ​Reducing your chemical exposure While researchers continue to look into this issue, James-Todd and Dr. Rexrode say there are several steps you can take to reduce potential risks related to personal care products. Do your research. When choosing a product, look at the label to see what chemicals it contains, and determine if it's something you want to use. Organizations such as the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org) have analyzed many common products and provide information about potential safety concerns. The organization ranks some common beauty products on a scale from 1 to 10, from those generally thought to be safe to those that contain chemicals that raise more concerns, says James-Todd. "Find out as much as you can about what you are using," she says. ​Find safer alternatives. If products you are currently using contain potentially harmful chemicals, switch to a safer option if one is available. The nonprofit Silent Spring Institute has a smartphone app called Detox Me that you can use in the store to scan product barcodes. If a safer option is available, it will let you know. It also offers a Detox Me Action Kit, which allows you to send a urine sample to have your chemical exposure levels tested to get an idea of how your levels compare to others in the United States. The kit also gives you ideas on how to reduce your exposure. ​Be skeptical of product claims. Many companies are legitimately working to develop safer products, but some manufacturer claims are dubious. Many companies will remove chemicals that have been highlighted as problematic, such as bisphenol-A or phthalates (chemicals known to be endocrine disrupters, substances that mimic or suppress human hormones). But they may then replace those chemicals with ones that are equally problematic. So, the products aren't really safer, and in some cases, they may be even worse than the original, says James-Todd. Pare down. While it may be tempting to fill your bathroom shelves with all the latest lotions and potions, making more judicious choices may be a better option. Limiting your options to products you consider essential can reduce your exposure. "For example, I love perfume, but I don't wear it anymore," says James-Todd. ​Go natural. Many beauty treatments can be mixed up in your kitchen. Look online for recipes for natural skin and hair treatments. But be aware that some "natural" consumer products can also bring health risks. For example, essential oils are often recommended as an alternative to perfumes and fragrances. But some, in particular lavender and tea tree oils, have estrogenic properties that can pose some of the same health risks as their chemically laden counterparts, says James-Todd. Natural does not always mean safer. ​The bottom line: "Women should be thinking carefully about the products they use," says Dr. Rexrode. "And I think we should be demanding more information about their safety." ( Credits:  Harvard Health)  

In this powerful episode, Kendra Bracken-Ferguson and Leslie Roberson unpack the emotional and structural implications behind the closing of beloved beauty brand Ami Colé. More than a business decision, it's a mirror reflecting the industry's persistent challenges—from DEI rollback and consumer perception, to the burden of founder identity and the urgency of leadership evolution. With raw honesty and deep industry insight, the hosts explore what this moment means for Black beauty founders, how we build for sustainability, and the importance of pivoting with purpose. They honor the legacy of Ami Colé and call for accountability, while also sharing the behind-the-scenes lessons shaping their own venture, LumiNicole Beauty. Tune in for a candid conversation on community, leadership, and the future of inclusive beauty.

Something we love about working in the salon industry is that our careers are customizable. Want to work just one day a week? Specialize in blonding? Just do cuts?  Split your time between two locations? Have back-to-back clients or work some down time into your schedule? All of these things are possible. Coming out of cosmetology school, Kacie Mundell knew she wanted the opportunity to grow and learn more advanced color techniques, and she wanted to have fun at work. First she got an entry-level job at a Summit salon company with a strong mentorship program that shared her values. Then the rest was up to her. Less than a year and two promotions later, Kacie's a level 2 stylist at her salon company.  In this episode, Kacie chats with host Blake Reed Evans about the combination of guts, mentorship, relationship-building, and careful financial planning that got her where she is, and keeps her on the rise. At the time of this recording in 2021, Kacie Mundell was a stylist and color and blonde specialist at Herdis the Salon in Northampton, Massachusetts, and at Parker on Main in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Now she's an indepedent stylist in West Springfield, MA, specializing blonding and vivids. SUMM IT UP is produced by Andrea Muraskin, with editorial support from Tim Fisk. Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon.Follow guest Kacie Mundell on Instagram @kaciedoeshair_Follow host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans. His DM's are always open!  Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.

In this radiant episode of The Freq Show, Jaclyn sits down with Melissa Lenberg, the founder of Citrine Natural Beauty Bar — one of the first clean beauty destinations of its kind. They talk about building a soulful business from the ground up, the power of rituals, how Melissa detoxed her beauty routine, and the energetic side of entrepreneurship. Melissa shares her personal favorite products, how she protects her energy, and what it really means to glow from within.

What if the next big breakthrough in beauty wasn't hidden deep in a jungle, but growing in your own back garden? In this episode of Green Beauty Conversations, Formula Botanica CEO Lorraine Dallmeier asks whether the industry's obsession with exotic ingredients is no longer serving us – or our planet. Must beauty always come wrapped in mystique and flown halfway across the world? Or could the future lie in ingredients that are local, familiar and often overlooked? Tune in now to find out!   Free Resources Free formulation course | Green Beauty Conversations Podcast | Blog | YouTube Socials: Formula Botanica on Instagram | Lorraine Dallmeier on Instagram  

Join us for a captivating conversation with Melanie Lane Durham, a remarkable mom, wife, and entrepreneur from Northern California who has beautifully blended her passion for beauty with holistic healing. Starting as an esthetician, Melanie evolved her career into owning a one-of-a-kind hair and healing studio, where she combines plant-based, non-toxic hair care with energy healing practices like Reiki and chakra balancing. She shares how the COVID-19 shutdowns inspired her to create a more intentional and personal space for her clients, both in-person and virtually, offering everything from hair loss support to Oracle card readings. In this episode, we also dive into Melanie's inspiring new children's book, Everyday Magic—written during a deeply challenging time in her life. The story serves as a gentle, empowering reminder to find magic in the ordinary through mindfulness and gratitude. As we explore her journey from the beauty industry to publishing, Melanie opens up about imposter syndrome, the courage it takes to act despite fear, and how she defines true empowerment. Tune in for a rich, honest conversation about authenticity, healing, and the magic of living fully aligned. Connect with Melanie on Instagram @magicbymelanie and explore Everyday Magic on her website, Amazon, or Ingram.   Connect with Melanie:Website: www.magicbymelanie.com Instagram: @magicbymelanie Facebook: Magic By Melanie TikTok: magicbymelanie Let's keep the conversation going!Website: www.martaspirk.com Instagram: @martaspirk Facebook: Marta Spirk Want to be my next guest on The Empowered Woman Podcast?Apply here: www.martaspirk.com/podcastguest  Watch my TEDx talk: http://bit.ly/martatedx Love cozy mysteries? Meet Nora Bardin, a lifelong puzzle solver turned author, who crafts fast-paced, feel-good whodunits. Her stories are packed with charm, suspense, and satisfying twists—whether you're fireside or on your lunch break. Escape into a world where justice always wins. Discover Nora Bardin's books now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nora-Bardin/author/B0F3Y5BP4R