Ep. 38: Leftovers|The Rise of the Social Media Fembot Ft. Recho Omondi
Bonus! Recho and I discuss how new technologies, that seem harmless, are shaping gender perceptions in dangerous ways. Subscribe to the show and please rate and review if you have a moment: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-naked-beauty-podcast/id1131628553?mt=2
Read the full story by Amanda Hess via the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/04/arts/fembot-poppy-lil-miquela-kylie-jenner.html
Ceck Out Lil Miquela - a virtual influencer *a-must-see* https://www.instagram.com/lilmiquela/?hl=en
Follow me: instagram.com/brookedevard
Follow Recho & Checkout Omondi: instagram.com/Omondi
Also, check out our site for more video content: www.nakedbeautypodcast.com
Ep. 37: Don't Contour Before Your Date Ft. Lindsey Metselaar
“My exes have really hot exes. And I need them to be hot.”— today’s guest Lindsey Metselaar Lindsey, who also hosts her own fab podcast — We Met at Acme, a show about millennial dating in NYC, had a lot to say & strong opinions that kept me cracking up the entire time.
Lindsey shares how she felt about herself growing up, being the ‘elephant in the room’ in high school and curly-hair shame. I ask her if she really eats everything posted on @dontexpectsalads and we talk about a misguided anorexia intervention from well-meaning friends (she does eat for the record). We discuss dating apps Hinge and Raya, how Lindsey gets ready for dates and how men don’t really understand how much make-up goes into the ‘no-make-up look’. We cover Brazilian waxes vs landing strips and why guys get away with having ‘full bushes’. Lindsey describes her ideal woman, why she prefers her exes to have hot exes, her thoughts on lip injections, thick eyebrows, nose jobs in the Jewish community and love for dry shampoo.
******* Follow Lindsey https://www.instagram.com/lindzmetz/
Follow We Met at Acme on IG: https://www.instagram.com/wemetatacme/
Hear me discuss my dating years & the Rules on We Met at Acme: https://apple.co/2EJsaYy
Learn more about her show: https://www.wemetatacme.com
Products Mentioned
Glossier Tinted Moisturizer https://www.glossier.com/products/perfecting-skin-tint
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer https://www.sephora.com/product/tinted-moisturizer-P310930?country_switch=ca
Soft shirts from ATM for Lindsey’s go-to first date look https://atmcollection.com
Oribe Hair products https://www.oribe.com
Dry Shampoo from Dry Bar https://www.thedrybar.com/detox-dry-shampoo
Book She’s Loving - I Like You Just the Way I Am https://www.amazon.com/Like-You-Just-Way-Am/dp/1250055830
Glam Squad to find a make-up artist https://www.glamsquad.com/
Be sure to subscribe, rate and review the show: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-naked-beauty-podcast/id1131628553?mt=2
This episode was mixed by Laila Oweda
Keep in touch: @brookedevard
Join the #nakedbeautypodcast community on Instagram: @nakedbeautyplanet
Ep. 36: Vintage Black Glamour Ft. Nichelle Gainer
I’m joined by Vintage Black Glamour author, the fabulous Nichelle Gainer — a self-described “black history encyclopedia”.
We discuss how what started out as a research project for a novel inspired by her great aunt, Mildred Taylor, a model in the 1950s evolved into the Vintage Black Glamour Tumblr site in 2011. I learn about the history of black beauty pageants, the ‘Four Goddesses’: Josephine Baker, Lena Horne, Dorthy Dandridge and Ertha Kitt and why they’ve been able to maintain icon status decades later. We talk about the “It Girls” of the Harlem Renaissance like A’Lelia Walker and Blanche Dunne, roles black actresses have had to take in Hollywood, and the importance of keeping these stories alive for future generations. Nichelle tells me about growing up in South Jersey in the 70s and 80s and why when it comes to her hair — you get what you pay for. Links below for deeper dives on all the people we discusses together.
Nichelle’s Wonderful Books that I Can’t Recommend Enough: http://amzn.to/2CltqEs (Vintage Black Glamour) http://amzn.to/2oxy8Wh (Gentleman’s Quarters) Get Familiar with the Four Goddesses (Rare Photos) Josephine Baker http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/search/josephine+baker Lena Horne http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/tagged/Lena-Horne Dorothy Dandridge http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/tagged/Dorothy-Dandridge Eartha Kitt http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/tagged/Eartha-Kitt
*********
Key Figures of the Harlem Renaissance (1920s-30s)
James Van Der Zee — photographer of the Harlem Renaissance http://bit.ly/2GLLKEY http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/tagged/James-Van-Der-Zee
Carl Van Vechten — another key photographer and author of the Harlem Renaissance, he was German and slightly controversial http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/tagged/Carl-Van-Vechten https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Van_Vechten
Blanche Dunne — socialite and actress known as one of the most beautiful and fashionable women of the Renaissancehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blanche_Dunn
Madame CJ Walker — entrepreneur, first Black Woman to become a millionaire https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madam_C._J._Walker
A’Lelia Walker—Madame CJ Walker’s daughter, patron of the arts & hostess of infamous bathtub gin parties https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A%27Lelia_Walker
Other People Mentioned Diahann Carol — actress http://vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com/search/Diahann+Carroll
Katherine Dunham — dancer, activist https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katherine_Dunham
Carmen de Lavallade— dancer, choreographer https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmen_de_Lavallade
Cicely Tyson — one of the few actresses of her time who sported natural hair looks https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cicely_Tyson
Donyale Luna — First black model to be on a Vogue cover, she had a wild life https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donyale_Luna
Edward Enninful — First and current EIC of British Vogue https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Enninful
Fredi Washington https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fredi_Washington
Resources/Books/Videos Mentioned
Schomburg Research Center (in Harlem with online archives) https://www.nypl.org/locations/schomburg
On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker (written by her great-granddaughter) http://amzn.to/2GLz4hg
Black and Beautiful (Book on Black Models) http://amzn.to/2F4tBF4
Lena Horne on Dick Cavett https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKLErsgF_P4
Hair Khamit Kinks — Where Nichelle gets her ‘baby curl twists’ http://khamitkinks.com
*******
This episode was mixed by Laila Oweda
Music "In the Garden" by Jason Minnis aka Classicbeatz
Ep. 35: Do More With Less Ft. Mekdela Maskal
“It’s realizing how much you don’t need and seeing how much we are brainwashed to think that what makes us happy is being able to buy something. Letting that go is really freeing…not having this attachment to material objects as a measure of happiness.” — My guest, Mekdela Maskal
Mekdela is a media activist, living in Brooklyn, and fellow nature-lover with amazing style and beautiful natural hair. We go deep on her routine for the ideal wash day — from coconut oil pre-poo treatments to long finger-detangling sessions in the shower. I learn about what beauty wisdom she’s taken in from her Ethiopian parents and what the popular styles and approaches to beauty are in Ethiopia. Mekdela talks to me about what natural oils she loves, her yoga practice, how intentionally sweating is key for her skincare routine and gives me some INCREDIBLE make-up tips like using lipstick as eyeshadow (why haven’t I ever thought of this?!) .
We also get into the commercialization of the feminist movement and her issues with the way diversity and inclusion is used as a marketing tactic, how she developed her personal style and why she feels most beautiful surrounded by nature.
Follow Mekdela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekdeezy/?hl=en
Follow @NakedBeautyPlanet
Some Faves Mentioned in the Episode:
Outdoor Voices leggings https://bit.ly/2Gayq0Y
Coconut & Hibiscus Leave-In Conditioner and Curling Cream from Shea Moisture https://www.sheamoisture.com/products/hair.html?p=3&product_collection=228
Everyday Oil - mixture of different essential oils Mekdela loves https://shopeverydayoil.com
Sacred Yoga Studio in Brooklyn https://sacredbrooklyn.com
Arkins - sustainable women’s wear line https://shop-arkins.com
Ep. 34: Survival of the Fittest Ft. Recho Omondi
“Here I am running my own business which literally means — I’m making up all of this shit as I go. I’m not any particular genius” - Recho Omondi…… but low-key (IMHO) Recho is a genius Designer, friend and deep-thinker, Recho, returns to Naked Beauty! We talk about her now iconic n*ggas sweatshirt and how it found its way on to Issa Rae’s Insecure, why the timeline is the new runway, how the fashion cycle is constantly persuading us to consume and its subsequent impact on the environment. Recho has received a lot of press (hey Teen Vogue!), but she’s not buying into the hype — she talks about the difference between press coverage and industry success.
We also get into: - How she handles stress when everything feels like it’s falling apart but you also have a business to run (:16)
- Getting back into ballet & the “leave it at the bar” mentality (:21)
- Using heartbreak to create something magical & how the 90s classic “Great Expectations” inspired her latest collection (:28)
- How my Sudio wireless headphones (hey first sponsor!) have changed the game (33:45)
- The trends I’m really over, what I’m loving & getting into the sweatpants look(:35)
- Fragrance obsessions Le Labo, Tom Ford and Byredo (:38)
- Roll-on body glitter, YM & Limited Too Nostalgia & what the youth are missing out on being in this digital vortex(:49:35)
- Is this new generation ‘fake-woke’? Recho thinks so! They shave their heads but not their underarms…. (:52)
- Balancing the toxic and natural elements of a beauty routine (55:30)
- A VERY HOT TAKE ON BLACK PANTHER (:58:20) — don’t worry she still loved it
- That tine Mira Duma used the n-word on Instagram but how it’s even deeper than that (1:05)
- The thought-process behind posting a FIRE selfie (1:10)
Links: Follow Recho: https://www.instagram.com/rechoooooooo/
Follow Omondi: https://www.instagram.com/omndi/ Shop Omondi: http://rechoomondi.com
Recho’s Teen Vogue Story: https://www.teenvogue.com/gallery/recho-omondi-fashion-inspiration-racism-exclusive-interview
Sudio Headphones: https://goo.gl/QhpRm1
The Scents We Love: - Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille - Le Labo Santal 33 - Tom Ford White Suede - Byredo B’Al Dafrique
Also check out Lucky Scent to try samples: https://www.luckyscent.com
Ep. 33: Self-Care Isn’t an Excuse Ft. Darian Symone
Digital consultant working with brands like Glossier and Into the Gloss, podcaster, news curator and passionate self-starter who’s dedicated to skincare, Darian Symone, joins me on this episode of the #nakedbeautypodcast.
We discuss moving from NY to LA, interning at Beyonce’s Parkwood, why she loves Melina Matsoukas, and the platform she’s created with her podcast, ‘Am I Allowed To Like Anything’. Darian’s skincare routine is VERY THOROUGH and involves using acids for exfoliation, controlling oil on her t-zone, minimizing her pores and finding the perfect SPF. She also lets me in on all of her haircare secrets for the perfect weave and explains the importance of finding a great stylist and buying quality hair. Growing up as the only girl of color in her class in Buffalo, NY, Darian explains how this influenced her world view. We talk about ‘white feminism’, the Women’s March (which we both didn’t attend) and dissect some of the reasons why.
Darian explains “I’m really careful not to use self-care as an excuse for the things I’m just afraid to do”, a warning we should all take into consideration because it’s just too easy to neglect responsibilities in the name of ‘self-care’. Lots of fun discussion on the highlighter trend going too far, breast reductions and why we stan for SZA and Princess Nokia.
Products/Stories/Resources Mentioned:
Essence Story on Our Beauty Resolutions: https://www.essence.com/beauty/real-women-beauty-resolutions-2018
Oil Cleansing via Minimalist Beauty http://www.minimalistbeauty.com/tag/oil-cleansing/
Darian’s Podcast Am I Allowed To Like Anything: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/am-i-allowed-to-like-anything-a-podcast/id1019767867?mt=2
Murad Sunscreen (one of my faves) http://seph.me/2EoXhcD
Chantecaille Sunscreen (expensive but worth it) http://bit.ly/2o3X2wA
Darian’s Skincare Faves: Erno Lazlo Light Controlling Lotion https://www.ernolaszlo.com/light-controlling-lotion.html
Glossier Primer http://bit.ly/2GaqtnV
Caudelie Overnight Detox Night Oil https://www.sephora.com/product/vine-activ-overnight-detox-oil-P417122
Beauty Pie - How she shops for her products (*genius*) https://www.beautypie.com/us
Darian’s Hair Faves: Jhavuanna Moody instagram.com/oak2bk
Indique Hair (for the perfect weave/blend situation) https://www.yelp.com/biz/indique-virgin-hair-extensions-new-york-2
Pravana treatment (semi-permanent smoothing treatment) http://www.pravana.com/texture/perfection-smoothout-solution.html
Follow Darian @ https://www.instagram.com/darian/
Spread love using #nakedbeautypodcast & if you like the show please review and rate in the podcast app - Thank you loves!!
Ep. 32: Beauty Secrets Vol. 4: Clear Your Beauty Clutter
We all want Into the Gloss & Pinterest-worthy beauty shelves. It’s CRITICAL that you organize your beauty space for the ultimate self-care practice. In this episode, I share my 5 essential steps to clearing beauty clutter — a process that I’m currently undergoing & not quite sure why I waited so long to do bc the results….*life-changing*
STEP 1: EVALUATE & TOSS OR FIND ANOTHER USE FOR IT - With a little help from Japanese organization expert and best-selling author Marie Kondo, I encourage you to go through all of your products and ask “Does this spark joy?” if not toss it or find another use for it (some good tips for repurposing products)
STEP 2: ORGANIZE YOUR MAKE-UP BY FREQUENCY OF USE - Now that you only have the things you love, organize your products by how often you use them
STEP 3: TRY TO FINISH WHAT YOU HAVE BEFORE YOU BUY - Make it your mission to finish products before you get new ones and join me in my pledge to STOP buying lipgloss
STEP 4: BUY SMARTER - Always sample before you buy, Sephora will forever have my heart bc you can return everything - NEVER buy foundation without testing for a full day and the same goes for fragrance
STEP 5: MAKE STORAGE CHIC - I use empty candle holders or mason jars to store my brushes and pencils
Products/Resources Mentioned In this Episode:
Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up (Book by Marie Kondo) https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing-ebook/dp/B00KK0PICK
Make-up brush cleaner (So you can keep your brushes pristine) http://amzn.to/2rNSwaJ
Poshmark (To sell your unwanted make-up) https://poshmark.com/
Lucky Scent (If you want to try fragrance before you buy) https://www.luckyscent.com/samples
Make-up Travel Bags Bad & Boujee Option: https://store.prada.com/en/pradaww/man/man-travel/2NA030-064-F0002
More Sensible Options from Ricky’s: https://www.rickysnyc.com/makeup.html/tools-accessories/makeup-bags-cases.html
Other Things
We Met at Acme ft. Brooke DeVard https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/we-met-at-acme/id1300757042?mt=2&i=1000400367344 Inspiration For Your Best Beauty Space Ever http://bit.ly/2DPI47S Stay in touch https://www.instagram.com/brookedevard/
ALSO, I just launched my site :) check-it out to see more of my guests, videos and about the show: http://www.nakedbeautypodcast.com/
*****Please rate, subscribe and review in the Apple Podcast app & share the show using #nakedbeautypodcast
Ep. 31: Island Gal Vibes Ft. Eniye Kagbala
“Caribbean women are just something else” - my guest, dear friend, and artist, Eniye Kagbala aka 333niye on the unrivaled confidence of Caribbean women.
We met online years ago, spent time together in London (going to fashion week & doing the most) but Eniye hails from St.Vincent. Since moving back to to the island from London, she’s learning to be grateful for life in paradise and “just LIVE” rather than chase. We talk about what makes quintessential island girl style — which she believes is about throwing on whatever is comfortable and not overthinking your look. We discuss buying hair on AliExpress, the importance of reading reviews before you buy and how to preserve braids. Eniye has dyed her hair AND brows at home with bleach for a very striking signature look.
We talk about how her hair journey began in Nigeria, why she loves Gwen Stefani, Tom Ford and Alaia and how she approaches her music and the creative process. Eniye believes life is about perfecting the art of living and that we’re all on non-linear paths.
Products/ Sites/Books Mentioned
Shala Monroque (all over my pinterest page and our shared style crush) http://bit.ly/2D1jdhc
Ali Express Kinky Curly Ombre Hair (best hair for beach life according to Eniye) http://bit.ly/2Djtd2a
In Search of Wisdom One Philosophers Journey (book she's loving) http://amzn.to/2DlSQzg
Get more Eniye in your life: http://eniye-kagbala.tumblr.com/
https://soundcloud.com/eniyemusic
https://www.instagram.com/333niye_/
Ep. 30: Celibate, Sober & Fasting Ft. Danielle Prescod
BET Style editor, Danielle Prescod, and I talk through A LOT in this last episode of 2017. Danielle doesn’t drink, “doesn’t enjoy food like that” AND she’s celibate — clearly, she’s got some super-human willpower.
We discuss Meghan Markle, what working in fashion does to your closet, what therapy has done for her, dating in NYC, and how Danielle balances her work & downtime even though she’s a self-described ‘content monster with a pathological need for attention’. Danielle’s introduction to fasting and the cult of Dr. Charles Passler, started out as a story she was working on for ELLE but soon developed into a total body transformation and entirely new approach to eating.
We discuss her matcha latte, bone broth and tea diet, and getting your body into a ketogenic state for maximum fat burning. Listen for: Racially Screening Soul Cycle instructors (lol!) Hiring Glam Squads For Nights Out Working Out & Finding the Right Hairstyle Getting “Eyebrow Shamed” by your Facialist The Benefits of Clearing Out Your Closet What Therapy has Helped her Learn & Avoiding “Prescription Pushers” Going Blonde “Instagram Face” & a lot more
Products/Stories Mentioned
How to Get the Body of A Victoria Secret Model by Danielle Prescod: http://bit.ly/2zHZiNJ
Dr. Passler’s “Pure Change” Program: https://www.purechange.co
Beauty Sick: How the Cultural Obsession with Appearance Hurts Girls and Women http://amzn.to/2m68o1N
Closet Organization Journey of a Fashion Editor https://www.manrepeller.com/2017/10/closet-organization-with-a-former-fashion-editor.html
Roe Morgan - Naomi Campbell (and Danielle’s) hairstylist https://www.instagram.com/hairbyromorgan/
Glam Squad - On Demand Beauty Services https://www.glamsquad.com
Soul Cycle Instructors Danielle Loves Francis https://www.soul-cycle.com/instructors/10411/francis/ Mike https://www.soul-cycle.com/instructors/10347/mike+press/ Mabel https://www.soul-cycle.com/instructors/10337/mabel/
Products Danielle Loves:
DPL Teeth Whitening (swears by this) http://bit.ly/2lm7CxG
MAC’s Next to Nothing Mattifying Powder http://bit.ly/2Drbl4d
Shieheido Eyebrow Powder http://bit.ly/2C8QROg
Kjaer Weis Cream Blush (expensive but worth it) https://kjaerweis.com/product/cream-blush/above-and-beyond
Ep. 29: Rehab,The RealReal & Life in LA Ft. Esme Brown
‘Fame is a beast that can’t be tamed’ - My guest Esme, on LA culture. I was fascinated to hear from Esme, a native New Yorker and writer, on her experience living in LA for the past 8 years.
We talk about how pilates has transformed her body but also makes her feel balanced and stronger. Her experience in rehab, coping with undiagnosed PTSD, and the difference between addiction, abuse and using. She extolls the virtue of therapy (even hypnotherapy), to cope with a cutting addiction and anxiety. We discuss eating with portion control in mind and navigating weight gain as we get older. We also gush over our love for The RealReal — the best online designer consignment shop of ALL TIME. We talk about all of her amazing tattoos and their meaning, crystal healing, how to get Restalyne and other and fillers without looking crazy, the products she's loving right now and the trends she's totally over.
Esme’s Favorite Products/Services Mentioned:
Parker Pilates https://www.instagram.com/parkerpilates/
The RealReal https://www.therealreal.com/
Chanel Bags on the RealReal https://www.therealreal.com/designers/chanel/women/handbags
Dysport https://www.dysportusa.com/before-and-after
Juvaderm https://www.juvederm.com/
Restalyne Silk https://www.restylaneusa.com/restylane-silk
Natura Bisse Diamond Line https://www.naturabisse.com/en/psproduct/29-diamond-extreme
Peter Thomas Roth Acne Clearing Dots https://www.sephora.com/product/acne-clear-invisible-dots-P399932
Kevin Aucoin Concealer https://www.sephora.com/product/the-sensual-skin-enhancer-P393953?skuId=1697440&icid2=products%20grid:p393953
Ep. 28: Beauty Secrets Vol. 3: Touch This Skin Darlingg
Supple, hydrated and flawless skin is the goal. I’m LOVING natural oils for all of my skincare needs these days and I wanted to share everything I’ve learned in this episode. I cover how to buy the right oils for your skin (beware of branded versions of natural skincare you can easily find online for 1/3 of the price). Then I go into the three ways I’m using oils for the best my skin has ever been:
Oil Cleansing my face at night - a game changer (can’t believe I ever used those drying commercial cleansers) Making homemade brown sugar scrub with olive oil or coconut oil My religious application of castor oil for my cuticles and lips to keep everything super hydrated
Products Mentioned:
Argan Oil http://amzn.to/2zsQwYC Marula Oil http://amzn.to/2jQW4oL Castor Oil http://amzn.to/2A1dA0l Microfiber Washcloth http://amzn.to/2A68ayv Some Links to Do Your Own Research: Minimalist Beauty minimalistbeauty.com/ Benefits of Oil Cleansing http://www.theoilcleansingmethod.com Oil Cleaning Method Tutorial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72ziFY3CmmY Homemade Sugar Scrub Recipes https://wellnessmama.com/3628/sugar-scrub-recipe/ - Also, check out the app Think Dirty (https://www.thinkdirtyapp.com) where you can see how toxic your beauty products are & learn about natural alternatives. Skincare doesn’t have to be expensive, educate yourself and become your own skincare expert.
Ep. 27: Behind The Highlight Reel Ft. Hannah Bronfman
Hannah Bronfman is the founder of HBFIT, DJ and wellness enthusiast. On this episode we talk about it all — from the superficial e.g. what’s it like to have Nikki Nelms do you hair and the best way to lose weight (it involves eating a lot of fat) to deeper topics like how bad relationships often serve as a way to break through.
We discuss growing up in NYC, what it was like planning her fabulous wedding in Morocco, how she’s thinking about aging and potentially motherhood, what products she swears by and how she’s had to advocate for herself as a woman in business.
Beauty Treatments & Products She Loves
Monica Watters for Lymphatic Drainage http://www.sacredtouchnewyork.com/about/
Barbara Sturm Blood Cream https://intothegloss.com/2016/10/barbara-sturm-blood-cream-mc1/
Workout Classes & Clothes - Jump Rope with Amanda Kloot https://amandakloots.com
Aerospace Boxing http://www.aerospacenyc.com 305 Fitness http://305fitness.com
Tracey Anderson Method http://tracyandersonmethod.com
Spider Bands https://spiderbands.com
Adidas Woman Ultra Boost http://bit.ly/2yeB51K Stella McCartney for Adidas http://www.adidas.com/us/adidas_by_stella_mccartney Follow Hannah + HBFit - https://www.instagram.com/hannahbronfman/ https://www.instagram.com/hbfit/ http://hbfit.com
*****
Stay in touch by following me @brookedevard on all platforms
@nakedbeautyplanet to join the Instagram community
Ep. 26: Know Your Worth Ft. St. Beauty (Alex Belle and Isis Valentino)
In the wake of countless assault charges facing women in entertainment, the message of self-worth that Alex and Isis(of Wondaland's St. Beauty)brought to this interview came right on time!
We go beyond what you see on their perfect Instagram account (it’s instagram.com/stbeautyband btw and yes, it’s amazing)and speak about their wider mission to heal and inspire through their music. We talk about their style icons, how they found themselves at Issa Rae’s house party hanging out with the cast of Insecure, Atlanta, and Samuel Jackson (so surreal)and futile attempts to style the already perfectly stylish(like jidenna).
We talk natural hair politics, big chop emotions, glue-ins from high school, bad dye jobs, 70s style, cultural appropriation, and their tips on how to perfect your style (like using natural landscapes as inspiration for color palettes). We end the interview by talking about their experience learning from Janelle Monae and hear from their manager, Joy Young, about how to make it as a woman in the industry without compromising your values.
Products Mentioned
Alex
Curls shampoo & conditioner https://www.curls.biz
Vanity Planet spin brush https://www.vanityplanet.com/products/spin-for-perfect-skin
Charcoal Soap https://www.amazon.com/Activated-Detoxifying-Cleanser-Certified-Ingredients/dp/B0177DRIEI
Isis
Black Soap http://www.ulta.com/african-black-soap-bar-soap?productId=xlsImpprod6400280
Kheil’s Oil-Free Face Wash https://www.kiehls.com/ultra-facial-oil-free-cleanser/1000.html
Castor Oil for Brows http://bit.ly/2zwCj8K
****Check out all of their amazing music @stbeautyband! Intro song is 'Caught'
Ep. 25: Podcast to Red Carpet Ft. Brittany Luse of The Nod
“It’s becoming a professional imperative that I figure this shit out” - Brittany Luse, today’s guest, on determining her look now that she’s becoming an increasingly public figure. Brittany co-hosts and co-created The Nod, a Gimlet podcast that pays tribute to black culture. We discuss her recent red carpet experience at Black Girls Rock and what it’s like coming from a career where no one sees you, to suddenly being extremely visible. We touch on HBCU beauty standards, Brittany went to Howard University, and how during college she perfected ‘dressing for the club’. Brittany, who has amazing hair and skin lets me in on some of her secrets: frequent haircuts to promote growth, an AMAZING colorist who took her natural hair all the way blonde without damage, and a semi-consistent (if we’re being honest) AM/PM routine.
Links to all of her products, her show and beauty resources below:
Listen to Brittany’s Show The Nod: https://gimletmedia.com/the-nod/ ‘Chitlins at Bergdorf’s’, my *favorite* episode https://gimletmedia.com/episode/chitlins-at-bergdorfs/
Products Mentioned:
Hair - Old school DAX for edges http://amzn.to/2xme8fF
- Illeisha Lussiano - Brittany’s Colorist with the magic touch. She works at Salon Ruggeri in NYC & you can see her work on her IG @illadonna or her site: https://thehairartiste.com
- Camille Rose Naturals Twisting Butter https://www.camillerosenaturals.com/products/almond-jai-twisting-butter
Skin - Cetaphil Face Cleanser - love this stuff http://amzn.to/2p77Tse
- Heritage Rose Water Spray or Jurlique Rose Water for hydrating skin during the day http://amzn.to/2p98f0D
- Clinique Pep-Start Eye Cream http://seph.me/2yyIbyL
- Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner https://www.mariobadescu.com/product/glycolic-acid-toner
- Drunk Elephant Vitamin C Serum http://seph.me/2xnlEXL
- OLEHENRICKSEN Truth Serum http://seph.me/2hlZvmm
- Korres Overnight Sleep Mask http://seph.me/2hoYF4o
- Hilary Sklar for Facials http://www.hillerysklar.com
- Caroline Hirons for skincare tutorials on YouTube/her site: https://www.carolinehirons.com
- Lucky Scent Fragrance Samples http://www.luckyscent.com/samples
Ep. 24: Moving Beyond '#BlackGirlMagic' Ft. Lindsey Day (founder of CRWN Magazine)
"Hair is politicized whether we want it to be or not” — Lindsey DayOn this episode, Lindsey, founder of CRWN magazine — a revolutionary print magazine focused on black women and natural hair, comes by to talk about why she started CRWN, her hair journey, and how her upbringing informed her approach to the content she creates today.
We get into discussion around the language that surrounds the natural hair community — the complicated grading system of 4A vs 4C, the cliche language that makes us cringe e.g. #BlackGirlMagic and even the term ‘natural’ itself.
Topics
5:08 Why Lindsey created CRWN 7:12 Her natural hair journey 11:15 Being one of two black women in her *entire* high school 16:40 Hair type politics (4a,4b,4c) and the divisions within the natural hair community by hair texture 22:30 Perception of an afro in the workplace 23:40 Why Lindsey almost didn’t start CRWN 35:15 Kylie Jenner’s negative influence on beauty & the Kardashians using blackness to stay relevant 51:40 When Lindsey feels most beautiful & benefits of a low maintenance beauty approach
Products Mentioned
Natural Lip Balm (https://www.hanahanabeauty.com)
5-Free Nail Polish (https://www.mischobeauty.com/)
Where to Find & Follow CRWN http://www.crwnmag.com
https://www.instagram.com/crwnmag/
https://twitter.com/crwnmag
Ep. 23: Aligning Your Brand with Your Talent & The Philosophy of Aesthetics Ft. Grace Gibson
Grace Gibson, the talented actress,singer,songwriter,bandleader,content creator and proud Leo — is a force to be reckoned with. She grew up watching her mother, Lynn Whitfield, build her career as an actress following films like the Josephine Baker Story (where her parents met!), and has inherited a passion and instinct for the performing arts.
In this episode we discuss everything from her experience being a musician in New Orleans, playing Faith Evans in All Eyez on Me, what it’s like auditioning in Hollywood, how she’s responded to requests for nude scenes, the importance of creating your own content and finding your authentic voice. Grace and I attended the same predominantly white middle/high school in NYC and we reflect on how that experience shapes your relationship to beauty — including being embarrassed about your hair. Grace has a minimal approach to beauty that includes drugstore make-up, a 1x week wash routine, and some natural oils and plants — like the aloe vera she sources from her backyard in Laurel Canyon for under-eye treatments.
The amazing music at the start and end of this episode? That’s Grace! The original to-be released song is called "Steampunk Blues” and it was written and arranged by Grace and she produced the track with Jordan Brown and Taylor Gordon.
Follow Grace @thegracegibson to stay updated on all of her amazing work https://www.instagram.com/thegracegibson/?hl=en
Products Mentioned in this episode with links below:
Hair Tresemme Botanical Conditioner http://bit.ly/2uA2z37
Ren Pure Conditioner http://bit.ly/2vjD6IG
Taliah Waajid Curl Sealer http://amzn.to/2uJtZE4 Make-Up
Milani waterproof eyeliner http://bit.ly/2uaSkBi
Wet n Wild Mascara http://bit.ly/2gLomPR
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick http://seph.me/2tHaS8M Skin
Weleda Evening Primrose Moisturizer http://bit.ly/2vjjTHl
Support the show using #nakedbeautypodcast & subscribe on iTunes if you haven't yet: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-naked-beauty-podcast/id1131628553?mt=2
Ep. 22: Getting Better as We Get Older, Growing up Greek & Silent Meditation Retreats Ft. Amelia Glum
‘I dress down to be taken seriously. If I want people to hear what I have to say, I try to be as a-sexual as possible’ - My guest, Amelia, on how she conforms her look for her job in data science.
Amelia, my friend of 10 years and former roommate at Stanford, gets deep on this episode of the #nakedbeautypodcast. We discuss:
- Being white vs. being greek
- Her transition from a ‘guidette’ to a more pared down look
- How she cares for her voluminous waist length hair
- Dressing the part in tech in order to command the respect she deserves I also learn about:
- Moon cycles - Tea tree oil for acne
- Collagen eye pads to overcome a hangover
- The transformational power of a 10-Day Silent Meditation Retreat - yes, 10 days! Amelia opens up about overcoming depression by tapping into an active interior life.
Describing her mood after this retreat she says, ‘I felt so light in my heart that I felt like I was floating through life. I had an abundance of energy and freedom to do whatever I wanted’. We also talk self-love coming with age, making the effort in a long-term relationship and her korean beauty faves like Peach & Lilly and snail sleep masks (still skeptical). Enjoy & stay moisturized!
Products/Experiences Mentioned:
Evian Spray Atomizer - Amelia and I highly recommended desk and airplane essential for moisturizing your face http://www.sephora.com/mineral-water-spray-P2043
10 Day Silent Retreat - Dhamma Maṇḍa, Kelseyville, California https://www.dhamma.org/en-US/schedules/schmanda
High Waisted Lingerie from Hanky Panky - For curvy girls http://www.hankypanky.com/panties/briefs-and-high-rise-panties/signature-lace-retro-v-kini.html
Headspace App - Meditation for beginners https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app
Collagen Hydrating Eye Masks from Birch Box - for overcoming the hangover https://www.birchbox.com/product/1948
Peach & Lily for all things K-Beauty https://www.peachandlily.com
Ep. 21: Beauty Secrets Vol. 2: 'Nothing Tastes as Good as Skinny Feels'
When did dieting become so controversial? We're encouraged to eat whole foods, ignore the scale, and focus on health – but some people (i.e. me) still want to lose weight sometimes. The weight-loss landscape is cluttered with paleo hacks and detox teas, but I'm going to talk about what actually works. I have 5 simple tips for short-term weight-loss that anyone can do.
From intermittent fasting to swapping time at the gym for meal-prep, these tactics have never let me down. Products/Apps Mentioned: Zero, fasting app: http://apple.co/2iALpso David's Tea, Forever Nuts: http://bit.ly/2tmtGKK
Ep. 20: Creating a Signature Look Ft. Lucie Zhang
Lucie Zhang, who oversees social @voguemagazine, has a signature look that I totally envy — perfectly cut bangs, blonde tips and a dramatic winged liner, every.single.day. On this episode, I learn that her signature haircut was the result of a happy accident in Poland and die over her period-free life (it’s been six years thanks to Lo Loestrin, #jealous). We discuss asian beauty standards, eyelid surgery, getting fetishized on dating apps, the first black bachelorette, wearing sweatpants to Vogue, body FOMO from Instagram scrolling, the genius of Pat McGrath, the eyelash extension addiction spiral, and this amazing new app, Hello Ava, that’s basically a free dermatologist on call.
Ep. 19: The Scam of Being Yourself Ft. Recho Omondi
Recho is a young, NY-based, fashion designer who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, no matter who’s listening. Growing up between the midwest and Nairobi, she nurtured a love of fashion early by creating collages, explaining “any black girl I could get my hands on, I was going to cling on to for dear life". She now casts beautiful black models for her brand Omondi. We talk about the importance of being yourself, her serious beef with American Vogue, and how growing up the subtleties of not being able to find beauty products for you, or having platforms to learn about yourself, can impact the relationship we have with our own beauty routines, especially our hair. I get to hear about how she went platinum blonde and we reflect on Atlanta’s weave culture. She’s got love for the Glossier products but likes to keep her beauty routine simple. Recho makes everything seem effortless(from her career, to getting press attention and speaking out when no one else will) and her approach to beauty is no different.