Start Right Here! Podcast

This week, we feature Rochelle Graham-Campbell, the C.E.O. of Alikay Naturals. Rochelle is an entrepreneurial dynamo who puts her heart into everything she does. And she gives us lessons on building a business strategically.

As a young newlywed, Rochelle was paying her way through school and working three jobs: a C.N.A., a waitress at Olive Garden, and delivering daily newspapers with her husband, Demond. Then, she started doing YouTube videos as a form of creative expression, escaping all the pressure she put on herself to graduate early. The channel she created, Black Onyx, was where she could talk about her natural hair. In 2010, she was one of the original six natural bloggers and the only one that continues today. Through that channel, her haircare brand Alikay Naturals was born.

Although Rochelle isn't a chemist, she learned a lot watching her Grandmother, aka Yaya, in her native Jamaica, who was an expert in plant medicine. As a result, she was the first one people called when they had an ailment. Years later, Rochelle looked to natural ingredients to solve her hair problems and those who were part of her community. Rochelle formulated the brand's first 70 products in the first three years. That's no small feat. The line now has close to 90 SKUs.

Rochelle shares how attending a pitch competition with her last dollars became a catalyst for Alikay to get on retail shelves. She didn't win but left with a connection that led to her presenting to Target. They were sold and wanted the brand in 300 doors. However, Rochelle and Demond decided to ask for 1/3 fewer stores to prove themselves. Preparing to go on retail shelves was costly, but the two also agreed to manufacture their products themselves and started Black Onyx World. And in 2022, Alikay Naturals launched in 1800 Walgreens stores. She's also founded HER by Alikay Naturals, a feminine care line because she saw a dearth in the marketplace.

But Rochelle is an entrepreneur who likes sharing her secrets to success, so she's creating opportunities for others to learn. Through her courses and her book "90 Days to C.E.O.".

As a serial entrepreneur, wife, and mother, Rochelle shares why the Alikay Cares Foundation and philanthropy are essential business elements.

Finally, Rochelle shares some tips on launching a business in an already overcrowded category. Hear about this and so much more in this episode!

You've probably heard the adage that when a woman changes her hair, she changes her life. When Keziah Dhamma Big chopped her hair after moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles, it led to a whole new career. She went from an actress and model to a beauty entrepreneur all because she couldn't find what she needed for her thick, textured natural hair. Since developing her Snappee hair ties, Swirly Curl has become an ever-expanding platform that includes hair accessories, a blow dryer, and haircare products, including a hair growth serum, a book, an educational platform, and a new podcast, Hey Curlfriend. Keziah shares her personal journey, how she built her business, what she learned from trying to patent her design, why it was important for her business to evolve, and why it is important to stay true to her brand. She will also share some key tips for entrepreneurs, so stay tuned until the end!

Products mentioned in this episode: Snappee Hair Ties, Snap Scrunchies, Headbands, Adjustable Bonnet Manga Moringa Moisture Collection, and the Go Grow Curl Elixir (watch the video to see how you can get 15% off your purchase). Visit the website to shop for the products.

The SwirlyCurly Method Book (watch to find out how to get a free copy)

FULL TRANSCRIPT below:

Keziah Dhamma 00:00

So just for entrepreneurs who are listening to this, from many conversations with our lawyer and things like that is that even though it's your design, if another company changes one feature about it, your patent is no longer valid. So I think the most important thing out of everything is first to market, get some market, get in stores get known, there is always going to be someone coming and knocking you off. China loves to do that. But you got to just be out there and be known and you find your customers and they will ride with you.

CC 00:37

Well, welcome to start right here. We're talking to bipod VT pros about breaking into the industry, standing out and defining success for themselves. I'm your host, Karina COVID, our LGBT director, turned consultant, but I'm also adept connected. What does that mean? I love linking and sharing ideas, information, and people so that we can all succeed. And I do this show because I'm an advocate for creating an equitable, inclusive beauty industry. And this shows one way to bring you the information if you want to take a seat at the table, or build one appearance. So let's get into the show. Everyone's heard the adage. When a woman changes her hair, she changes her life. Well, today's guest not only changed your hair, she changed her life and her profession and became an entrepreneur. I'm happy to welcome because I Adama who is an entrepreneur of ever expanding platforms. She is the founder of swirly curly girl College, and the author of the swirly curly method. We're going to hear how she came to be an entrepreneur and the career path that she's taken as a result. So welcome, because I am so happy to have you on the show today.

Keziah Dhamma 02:00

Thank you, Karen, thank you for that introduction. That was lovely. I'm going to have to take that and put that in my bio. And the way you said it all. Yeah, because

CC 02:08

you do have ever expanding platforms. And that's a wonderful thing.

Keziah Dhamma 02:13

Yeah, thank you.

CC 02:15

What's interesting to me is that you started out as an aspiring model and actress. Tell me about following that dream.

Keziah Dhamma 02:22

Yeah. So when I was a little girl, I was always watching TV. And, you know, if you were born in the 80s, you watch TV. Nowadays, kids don't touch TVs, because you know, it's not good for their brain. But I was always watching Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen movies, they were traveling, I love the Travel Channel. And I would see young, I guess you could say actresses, and I thought, You know what, that's something I would love to do. Because their life just seems so exciting to be able to go on a location that's different from their everyday life and film. And so I went to college, I would say I was under the impression like many people, you know, in the 80s 90s, even early 20s. I feel like things have changed now. But where you go to school, you graduate, you got a good job. That was kind of the path most people took. So I went to school, I got my degree in Communication Studies, and I was focusing on broadcast journalism. I wanted to be a news anchor, I wanted to do CNN. So it was kind of close to being an actress, but not really fully going there. I think, you know, I was scared a little ...

We are back with Season 3 of Start Right Here! On this episode, it is a pleasure to welcome Noelly Michoux. She is the CEO and Co-founder of 4.5.6. Skin. And in this episode, we talk about how Noelly and her co-founders have used an international perspective and scientific research to create a groundbreaking line that addresses the skincare needs of 40% of the world's population.

Noelly shares why she moved from the country of her birth, Cameroon, to Normandy, France, and how that impacted her ideas about beauty. After moving to Paris to further her education, Noelly got her first exposure to a department store skincare.

After working in several careers, Noelly took a leap of faith and moved to NYC with her then-boyfriend. Because she didn't have the proper Visa, it took her months to land a job. When she did, she got her first exposure to the beauty industry while working in e-commerce for brands, including BlackUp. While in New York, she had her first child, experienced hyperpigmentation, and learned much about the skin as she sought treatment. She and her family moved back to France when her second child was born.

Still intrigued by the gap in addressing the skincare needs of those with richly melanated skin, Noelly began thinking bout addressing it. Noelly shares her circuitous route, including the journey to France's Cosmetic Valley, stops and starts with contract manufacturers, acceptance to the prestigious LVMH Research Center's program, and meeting her cofounders. Then the hurdles they faced building and launching 4.5.6. Skin.

Follow 456skin on IG https://www.instagram.com/456skin/

Check out the complete product line here: https://456skin.com/

We continue our discussion on Changing the Natural Hair Narrative with the second of our three-part series. This episode features Diane C. Bailey, a pioneering figure in the world of textured hair care, with a career spanning decades and an unwavering commitment to education, advocacy, and community empowerment. She is the CEO and Founder of EMERGE NBIA: Natural Beauty Industry Alliance and Co_President of the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition.

Born and raised in New York, Diane has emerged as a prominent figure, shaping the landscape of natural hair care not only as a stylist and author as well as a dedicated advocate for the recognition of textured hair as a science, art form, and cultural expression.

With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Diane is renowned for her expertise in working with diverse hair textures, challenging conventional norms, and promoting a holistic approach to hair care. She was the president and art director of Tendrils Hair Spa, one of the first salons in New York City to feature chemically free services for textured hair.

Diane's journey includes getting the first natural hair licensure issues in New York State 30 years ago. Her efforts have been instrumental in establishing a framework for recognizing the intricate care and skill required for working with textured hair. Through the NHBC, she continues to champion the cause of textured hair education through advocacy and legislative engagement, empowering beauty professionals and engaging with the community.

Beyond the salon, Diane is a published author, having penned insightful works that delve into the science and artistry of textured hair. Her commitment to education extends to teaching and mentoring the next generation of stylists, ensuring that the legacy of understanding and embracing textured hair continues.

As a sought-after consultant, Diane lends her expertise to those grappling with hair loss, particularly issues affecting the black community.

Through platforms like Instagram, where she can be found at dianecbailey and Emerge Nbia, she provides consultations and fosters a sense of community for those seeking guidance on their hair care journeys.

Diane C. Bailey stands as a beacon in the textured hair revolution, reminding us that hair is not just strands but a reflection of identity, culture, and resilience.

As she looks toward her next chapter, which includes retirement from behind the chair, Diane remains committed to paving the way for the next generation of hair enthusiasts, educators, and advocates.

Key Takeaways

1. Lack of Education on Textured Hair: Diane addresses the critical issue of the lack of education around textured hair. She emphasizes that many stylists are not adequately trained to handle diverse hair textures, leading to challenges in proper care and styling.

2. Need for Change in Education: There is a pressing need for a paradigm shift in hair care education. Diane advocates for changes in curriculum and training to ensure that stylists are well-equipped to understand and work with the intricacies of textured hair.

3. The Coalition's Mission: Diane co-founded the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition, an organization dedicated to advocating for licensure in New York State. The coalition aims to bring recognition to the unique skill set required for textured hair care and has been actively involved in shaping policies around it.

4. Hair Loss and Alopecia: The increasing prevalence of hair loss, especially among younger individuals; alongside the importance of early detection and intervention for various types of alopecia.

5. The Psychological Impact of Hair Discrimination: Diane discusses the psychological impact of hair discrimination, noting instances of racial bias in professional settings. She acknowledges the importance of initiatives like the Crown Act, which highlight and address discrimination based on hair types.

6. Community Support and Connection: Beyond her role as a stylist, Diane actively engages in community support. She offers consultations for those experiencing hair loss, fostering a sense of community through online platforms.

7. Legacy and Future Endeavors: Diane looks toward the future, expressing her desire to create a platform for beauty retail and continue her involvement in education and community outreach. She sees mentorship as a crucial aspect, passing the baton to the next generation of individuals passionate about the safety and cultural significance of textured hair.

Timestamps

[00:02:15] Diane shares insights into the lack of education on textured hair within the beauty industry and the challenges faced by stylists in...

On this episode of Start Right Here, digital and editorial strategist India-Jewel Jackson talks about her journey from print editorial to digital in its early years, how she was able to take the lessons learned there, and transition to branded content and social media. She shares the value of internships as well as choosing the right university and offers advice for those studying on communication and journalism tracks. Jackson also tells us how she landed a job abroad and the critical differences between working at a company in the U.S. and Europe. She offers tips and a timeline for searching for a job in another country, and the elements of your resume that may have to be adjusted.