Welcome back to Too Smart For This! This week, Alexis is joined by Olay Noel for a delightful conversation on all things self-care, entrepreneurship, and more.

The Atlanta, Georgia native knew from a young age that she was destined to walk the catwalk, drawing heavy inspiration from Naomi Campbell. While earning her degree from Kennesaw State University, Olay took a trip to New York City and returned with a modeling contract from Wilhelmina Models, the world-renowned agency that has had such clients as Naomi Sims, Anjelica Huston, Beverly Johnson, Patti Hansen, and Whitney Houston among others. Despite facing adversity as a woman of color in the modeling industry, Olay has continued to book countless projects including Essence, Cosmopolitan, and L’Officiel. Upon her parents’ advice, she has expanded her repertoire and started her own clothing and jewelry line with her sister that highlights the Black Diaspora, called MIANIK, which has been in business since 2019.

Listen to Olay's New Single “Flowers”

Show Notes

00:58 Learn more about Olay!

8:10 Solitude as self care

11:05 Olay’s career trajectory

13:03 Developing the confidence to audition yourself

14:52 Juggling and nurturing multiple interests and talents

16:07 Ignoring the pressure of conformity

17:52 Seeking other women for inspiration

20:39 Developing an entrepreneurial spirit/mindset

21:59 How to find structure amidst uncertainty and spontaneity

23:37 Investing in small things that boost your mental health

25:54 Trying to develop community in new environments

27:35 Knowing when to pivot when experiences no longer serve you

29:13 Importance of escaping your comfort zone to realize your true potential

32:15 Thinking of your life as a series of lessons rather than timelines

34:41 Importance of promoting inclusivity beyond fads or trends

37:59 Finding community in a post-pandemic world

39:29 Importance of being the initiator 

Resources/Mentioned

Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil: https://rb.gy/5lirg

Osea Advanced Protection Cream: https://rb.gy/sr9bq

Zuri Fate Body Butters: https://rb.gy/so0hs

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: https://rb.gy/w550y

Glo Skin Beauty GlyPro AHA Resurfacing Peel: https://rb.gy/dwbwc

The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone: https://rb.gy/uq7yp

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