Beauty Is Your Business - beautytech and beauty innovation

In this episode of Beauty is Your Business, Ayal Pascal, head of beauty at Bold Brands Co., shares insights from his extensive career in the beauty industry, including his time at L'Oreal and his transition to indie brands. He discusses the importance of strategy, the role of AI in marketing, and the challenges of building credibility in a crowded market. Ayal also emphasizes the need for agility in the fast-paced beauty landscape and offers advice for marketers looking to make a leap into entrepreneurial environments. 

In this episode of Beauty is Your Business, Host Mimi Banks is joined by Margi and Greg Kimball, co-founders of Naked and Thriving. They share their journey from corporate beauty to creating a clean skincare brand. They discuss the importance of transparency, sustainability, and community in the beauty industry, as well as their personal motivations behind starting the brand. The conversation also touches on the challenges of defining 'clean' beauty, the role of social media in building a community, and their commitment to philanthropy and environmental responsibility.  

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Blair Lancer, the CMO of Lancer Skincare. In the conversation they explore the themes of family legacy and personal destiny, highlighting how Blair’s background and familial expectations shaped her career path in the cosmetics industry. Blair reflects on the unexpected ways in which purpose can emerge from personal experiences and aspirations.

In this conversation, Host Mimi Banks is joined by Greta Fitz, the founder and CEO of Ascention Parfums. Greta shares her journey through the beauty industry, her leap into entrepreneurship, and the unique concept behind her fragrance brand that combines spirituality and scent. She discusses her experiences at major beauty companies, the challenges of launching her own brand, and her vision for empowering women through beauty. The conversation highlights the transformative power of fragrance and the importance of self-care and intention in personal growth.  

In this episode of Beauty is Your Business, Host Mimi Banks is joined by Allison Taylor, co-founder of Le Prunier. Allison shares her journey from a career in marketing and fashion to launching a skincare brand centered around the unique benefits of plum oil. She discusses her family's deep roots in farming, the challenges of scaling production, and the importance of influencer marketing. The conversation highlights the brand's commitment to clean beauty and the innovative use of plums in skincare products.

In this conversation, Marie du Petit Thouars  and Matthew Berkson, the founder and CEO of Maison Louis Marie, share the journey of their modern fragrance house rooted in French heritage. They discuss the brand's inception from candle-making to creating a lifestyle fragrance brand, emphasizing the importance of memory in fragrance creation. The duo highlights their commitment to clean ingredients, sustainability, and maintaining their brand's DNA while navigating consumer expectations. They also touch on their unique approach to social media and community building, showcasing the brand's growth and connection with customers.  

In this engaging conversation, Mimi Banks is joined by Alec Batis, CEO of Sweet Chemistry Skincare. Alec shares his journey from a successful corporate career to founding his own skincare brand. He discusses the innovative science behind his products, the importance of quality ingredients, and the lessons learned as a founder. The conversation highlights the intersection of beauty and self-worth, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the future of skincare innovation.  

In this conversation, April Franzino is joined by the Co-Founder of Oribe, Daniel Kaner, and the  General Manager, Jessica Friedman. They discuss the inception and growth of their luxury haircare brand. They share insights into their innovative product development, strategic market positioning, and the significance of their signature fragrance. The duo reflects on the challenges faced during their journey, and their vision for the future of the brand, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and connection with customers.  

In this episode, Host Mimi Banks is joined by Dr. Clare Bertucio, CEO and Chief Medical Officer of Medicine Mama. Dr. Clare shares her journey from a radiation oncologist to a beauty entrepreneur focused on women's health. She discusses the importance of education and advocacy in women's health, particularly around vulva care, and emphasizes the need for natural ingredients in beauty products. Dr. Bertucio also highlights the significance of normalizing conversations about women's bodies and health, especially during different life stages. The conversation touches on the challenges and lessons learned in building a brand and the future aspirations for Medicine Mama.  

In this conversation, Dr. Iris Rubin, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and founder of SEEN, shares her journey from practicing medicine to launching a beauty brand that focuses on the connection between hair care and skin health. She discusses the challenges and opportunities she faced while building her brand, the importance of listening to customer feedback, and her vision for the future of SEEN. Dr. Rubin emphasizes the significance of creating products that are safe for sensitive skin and the role of dermatologists in recommending her brand. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating their own career transitions.  

In this episode, Sarah Kugelman, CEO and founder of All Golden, shares her extensive journey in the beauty industry, from her corporate beginnings to launching her own brands. She discusses the lessons learned from her previous venture, Skin Iceland, and how they informed the creation of All Golden, a skincare and haircare line aimed at women over 45. Sarah emphasizes the importance of innovation, community building, and addressing the unique needs of her target demographic. She also highlights the challenges faced during the launch process and the positive consumer response to her brand's authentic messaging and product efficacy.  

In this conversation, April Franzino is joined by Dr. Roshini Raj, founder of Tula Skincare. She shares her unique journey from being a gastroenterologist to creating a skincare line that emphasizes the gut-skin connection. She discusses the challenges of starting a business with no prior experience, the importance of partnerships, and the evolution of Tula over the past decade. Dr. Raj highlights the significance of maintaining product quality and the impact of skincare on confidence and well-being. She also shares insights on balancing her dual careers and the future direction of Tula, including new product launches and a focus on customer experience.  

Host April Franzino is joined by Peter Thomas Roth, CEO of Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care shares his journey from personal struggles with acne to creating a successful skincare brand. He discusses the importance of ingredient transparency, the evolution of his customer base, and the brand's innovative approach to product development. Roth also highlights the challenges of global expansion and the unpredictable nature of viral marketing in the beauty industry. 

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Shawn Haynes, the President of WYN Beauty, and Chidinma Asonye, the Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer of WYN Beauty. They discuss their unique journey in the beauty industry, the significant involvement of Serena Williams as a founder, and the brand's commitment to active beauty. They explore the philosophy behind Wyn Beauty, the importance of clean and multifunctional products, and the strategic partnership with Ulta Beauty. The role of social media in building a community around the brand is also highlighted, along with insights into future innovations and advice for aspiring beauty professionals.  

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Trisha Ayyagari, the Global Brand President of Maybelline New York. Trisha  shares her journey in the beauty industry, her experiences at L'Oreal, and the impact of motherhood on her professional life. She discusses the importance of empathy in leadership, the balance between career and family, and the significance of setting goals for success. Trisha emphasizes the support she received from her female colleagues and the importance of not feeling guilty for wanting both a fulfilling career and family life.  

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Amy Gordinier, Founder of SkinFix, shares her extensive journey in the beauty industry, detailing her experiences at major companies like L'Oreal and Estee Lauder. She discusses the founding of SkinFix, emphasizing its mission to heal skin through scientifically-backed products. The importance of dermatological validation and innovative skincare solutions is highlighted, along with advice for aspiring beauty entrepreneurs.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Echo Sandburg, Chief Brand Officer of CP Skin Health Group. Echo discusses her journey in the beauty industry, managing multiple skincare brands, and the importance of professional influencers in skincare. She highlights the role of Amazon in skincare distribution, emerging trends in the industry, and the significance of corporate social responsibility in promoting sun safety. Echo also shares valuable advice for aspiring female leaders in the beauty sector.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Jenn Chiba, the Founder and CEO of House of Lashes. Jenn shares her journey of building a successful beauty brand while balancing motherhood. She discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of community and values in her business, and her commitment to philanthropy. Jenn emphasizes the significance of quality and innovation in her products, as well as the role of social media in connecting with her audience. Her story is one of empowerment, resilience, and a passion for beauty that transcends mere aesthetics.

Host April Franzino is joined by Jasmina Agonovic, Founder of Arcaea, shares her unique journey from studying engineering at MIT to becoming a beauty brand founder. She discusses her passion for innovation in the beauty industry, the creation of her company Arkea, and the launch of her fragrance brand Future Society, which focuses on reviving scents from extinct flowers. Jasmina emphasizes the importance of biology in beauty, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of having a lab for product development. She also shares insights on retail strategy, lessons learned from customer feedback, and future plans for her brand.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Nicole Collins and Corey Weiss, the Co-Founders of 213 Deli. They share their journey from their beginnings at IPSY to launching their innovative mobile-first platform. They discuss the evolution of beauty marketing, the importance of relationships in business, and how 213 Deli aims to revolutionize the beauty shopping experience through a text-to-buy model. The conversation highlights the significance of curation, brand partnerships, and the unique needs of the Gen X demographic in the beauty industry. Go to 213deli.com and use invite code BIYB to get a $20 credit to shop

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Gregory McDonald, the Founder and CEO of Bathorium. Greg shares his journey of creating a unique bath experience that emphasizes self-care and wellness. He discusses the importance of high-quality ingredients, the brand's media highlights, and strategies for customer acquisition. Greg also introduces his documentary, 'Soaked in Tradition,' which explores cultural perspectives on bathing around the world.

In this episode of Beauty is Your Business, host Jessica Quick interviews Mark Menning, CEO and Co-Founder of MARK Los Angeles, a skincare brand that leverages pharmaceutical-grade science, particularly focusing on flavonoids. Mark shares his journey from the pharmaceutical industry to skincare, emphasizing the importance of clinical trials and innovative formulations. The conversation explores the challenges of launching a new beauty brand, the significance of community building, and the future potential of XDF technology in skincare formulations.

Host April Franzino is joined this week by Anna Teal, the CEO of Grown Alchemist. Anna shares her journey in the beauty industry and the brand's focus on harnessing the power of nature and biotech ingredients. Grown Alchemist has formed partnerships with Equinox and REVIV to offer holistic wellness experiences. The brand's retail strategy varies by market, with a focus on service integration and flagship stores. As an indie brand, Grown Alchemist is able to focus on its growth ambitions and invest in formulations and social content. The goal is to make the brand accessible to as many people as possible and help them feel and look better.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Lisa Goodman, the Founder of GoodSkin Clinics. Lisa discusses her unique approach to beauty and healthy aging. She emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to aesthetics, focusing on the root causes of aging and creating personalized healthy aging plans. Lisa also talks about the challenges of re-educating clients in an industry that is often focused on quick fixes and the importance of providing accurate information in a world of misinformation. 

Melissa Palmer, Co-Founder and CEO of OSEA, shares the story of the brand's genesis and its connection to the ocean. The brand has stayed true to its core beliefs and philosophy since its launch in 1996, focusing on clean ingredients and sustainability. Melissa discusses how the brand has evolved over the years, including the shift to online sales and the use of Instagram for marketing. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to your brand's identity and values in the face of competition. Melissa also highlights the need for collective efforts in sustainable packaging and the constant evolution of sustainability in the beauty industry.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Basma Hameed, the Founder of BASMA Beauty. Basma shares her unique background story and journey in the beauty industry. After suffering from a kitchen accident that left her with third-degree burns on half of her face, Basma discovered the power of makeup at a young age. She later developed a scar camouflage treatment and opened clinics in Toronto and Beverly Hills. Basma's passion for inclusivity and authenticity led her to create BASMA Beauty, a cosmetic line with a focus on foundation shades that match every skin tone. 

Jessica Quick, of Buzz Beaute sits down with Amy Welsman, the Founder and CEO of Paume Handcare. Amy shares her journey of starting a hand sanitizer brand and the challenges she faced. She discusses the genesis of Paume and how being a new mom inspired her to create a more luxurious and enjoyable hand sanitizer. She talks about the go-to-market strategy, including focusing on direct-to-consumer sales and building partnerships with retailers.  Amy also discusses the differences between marketing in the US and Canada and the scalability of the US market.

Host April Franzino is joined by Karissa Bodnar, the Founder and CEO at Thrive Causemetics. She shares her journey in the beauty industry and the mission behind her brands. Karissa emphasizes the importance of giving back and creating products that solve problems for consumers. She also discusses the challenges she faced in building her business and the lessons she learned along the way.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Rachel Shallowitz, President of LAWLESS Beauty. Rachel shares her journey in the beauty industry, how she started her career behind the Bobby Brown counter and worked her way up to her current position. She emphasizes the importance of relationships in the beauty industry and how LAWLESS Beauty focuses on creating makeup products that are transformative to the skin.  Also how the brand prioritizes makeup first and then incorporates skincare benefits. Rachel discusses the partnership with Sephora and the strategies they have implemented to grow the brand. 

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Laurie Lam, the Chief Brand Officer of e.l.f. Cosmetics. Laurie shares her journey in the beauty industry, from starting as a teenager working at an Estee Lauder counter to her current role at e.l.f. She discusses the importance of guts, curiosity, and asking questions in her career. She also talks about e.l.f.’s focus on disruption, inclusivity, and community, and she highlights the success of e.l.f.’s recent campaigns and collaborations, including the Super Bowl commercial and the collaboration with Liquid Death.

Host April Franzino is joined by Martina Halloran Joseph, CEO of Dr. Hauschka Skincare USA, shares her unconventional journey in the beauty industry, the brand's unique ethos, and its commitment to community impact. She discusses the brand's focus on natural, sustainable products and the importance of transparency in the industry. Martina emphasizes the brand's dedication to customer care and its ongoing initiatives to create positive impact through the Giving Garden program.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Leslie Ann Hall, the CEO and Founder of Iced Media. Leslie shares insights on TikTok Shop and live streaming on TikTok. She discusses the democratization of distribution, the potential of TikTok Shop as a sales channel, and the importance of stakeholder involvement for success on TikTok. Leslie also emphasizes the need for consistency and frequency in TikTok Live streaming for optimal outcomes.

Doreen Arbel, General Manager of Charlotte Tilbury North America, shares her career journey and the importance of passion and hard work in the beauty industry. She started her career in advertising and then moved to Paris to work at L'Oreal. She worked on various brands and categories, gaining valuable experience in global roles and in the field. Doreen emphasizes the importance of taking risks and embracing new opportunities. She also discusses the challenges of balancing work and motherhood and the importance of sharing her passion with her children.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined this week by Carly Broderick, the Founder and CEO of Miles Personal Care. Carly discusses the development and marketing of her brand, which focuses on creating deodorants and personal care products for teens and tweens. Carly shares her background in the beauty industry and how she came up with the idea for Miles, as well as the branding and packaging, including the decision to make it a gender-neutral brand. She shares her go-to-market strategy, which includes targeting parents as the purchasers and using influencers and PR to reach the target audience. Carly also mentions her plans for expanding the product line in the future.

Cassandra Thurswell, Founder and CEO of Kitsch, shares her journey of building a successful beauty brand. She started with hand-making knotted hair elastics and selling them door-to-door, eventually expanding into other hair accessories, satin pillowcases, and haircare products. Kitsch's focus on sustainability and small behavior changes has resonated with customers. Cassandra discusses the challenges of transitioning from a founder to a CEO and the surprises along the way, such as the success of their shampoo and conditioner bars. She also shares her excitement for future expansions, including a shower filter and partnerships with Charity Water.

Jamie Greenberg, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jamie Makeup, shares her journey in the beauty industry and the process of getting celebrities ready for the red carpet. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and authenticity in creating the perfect look. Jamie also discusses her own beauty line and the challenges of product development. She values her community and aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space for women to be themselves.

Jesse Bartley, Chief Commercial Officer of Scent Beauty, discusses the evolution of the fragrance industry and the unique approach of Scent Beauty. The company initially focused on direct-to-consumer fragrance but later pivoted to become an omnichannel company. Bartley emphasizes the importance of partnerships with retailers and the need to create emotional connections with consumers. He also highlights the trends of luxury fragrance, celebrity brands, clean fragrance, and innovative product formats. Bartley discusses the challenges of retail, supply chain, and data management, and the importance of agility and risk-taking in the beauty industry.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Alicia Grande, the CEO and Founder of Grande Cosmetics. Alicia discusses the beginnings of Grande Cosmetics, starting with the discovery of a lash-enhancing product and the journey to bring it to market. Alicia talks about the strategic moves and milestones that propelled the company's growth, including expanding into different channels and markets. She emphasizes the importance of safety and efficacy in their products and the challenges of combating counterfeits. 

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beauté is joined by Angela Caglia, the Founder of Angela Caglia Skincare. Angela discusses the journey of building her luxury skincare brand.  She shares the influence of Barbara Streisand and the importance of utilizing her clientele base, and she introduces the Cell Forté serum and the science behind it. 

Kate Foster, co-founder and CEO of The Outset, shares her journey in the beauty industry and the building of her brand. She discusses her early career working at CEW and Victoria's Secret, her transition to fashion and return to beauty, and the inspiration behind The Outset. Kate also talks about the challenges faced during the pandemic, the brand's focus on minimal and gentle skincare, and the future of the brand. 

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Jessica Stevenson and Jayme Jenkins, the Founders of Everist. They discuss their category-defining innovation in the beauty industry. They share the genesis of Everist,  the competitive landscape and the surprises they encountered as beauty founders, and what is next for the brand.

Host April Franzino sits down with Sarah Potempa, a celebrity hairstylist and the CEO of Beachwaver Co. Sarah shares stories about her career as a celebrity hairstylist, and working on photoshoots. She also discusses how she came up with the idea for the original Beachwaver and the challenges she faced while getting it produced. Sarah also tells us what’s next for Beachwaver Co.

Host Mimi Banks is joined this week by Julien Bouzitat, the General Manager at LaNeige & Innisfree. He discusses coming to the United States from France, and some of the differences in the business culture that he encountered, and how he adapted. Julien also discusses the role that social media has played in building global brands.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Kamal Kaur, the Founder and Principal Regulatory Consultant at The Cosmetic Regulator. Kamal breaks down some of the confusing regulatory points for consumers when it comes to beauty products and brands. She talks about the differences between EU regulations and state and federal regulations in the United States.

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Injector Chris Bustamante, the Founder of Lushful Aesthetics. Chris talks about opening his own practice two years ago, the growth the business has experienced and how he displays his work on  social media to target a niche audience.  

Host Mimi Banks is joined this week by Chris Payne, the CEO of Jane Iredale. Chris discusses his career path, including his days at L’Oréal. He also discusses how he fell in love with the professional channel because of the ability to discover products and techniques.

Host April Franzino is joined this week by Carolyn Aronson, the Founder of It’s a 10 Haircare. Carolyn discusses her early career behind the chair where she found herself frustrated by how she had to use multiple products to get the result she desired. And how that inspired her to set out to create a product that was multifunctional.

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined this week by Philip B, the Founder of Philip B. Hair Care. Philip discusses what motivated him to start formulating products over 30 years ago. He talks about the personal relationships he has formed with his clients and his he passion to provide healthy scalp solutions to those who suffer from afflictions like psoriasis and dandruff. 

Host Jessica Quick of Buzz Beaute is joined by Priyanka Ganjoo, the Founder of Kulfi. Priyanka discusses her early career working in the corporate beauty industry, and how that experience shed light on the lack of representation for the South Asian community in the beauty industry. She tells us how she launched Kulfi to reframe how makeup is viewed in the South Asian community, and how that message has resonated with their audience. 

Host Mimi Banks is joined by Derrick Booker, the Senior Vice President and Head of Brands for Thayers Natural Brands at L’Orèal. Derrick discusses his career and his journey of discovery, from starting in microbiology to ending up in brand management.