AND This Podcast

In this episode, I pull back the curtain on the world of styling, sharing my journey from an unpaid internship with a major hip-hop artist to dressing models for top Fashion Week designers like Vera Wang and Michael Kors. I break down the different types of styling, including celebrity, fashion shows, TV, and personal styling, explaining why I chose to focus on helping everyday professionals match their style with their message.

Learn about the realities of work-life balance in celebrity styling, the seasonality of Fashion Week, and why personal styling offers autonomy and fulfillment. Whether you're considering a career in styling or looking to refine your personal look, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration to guide you.

KEY POINTS

- Jasmene’s journey as a wardrobe stylist 

-  Challenges celebrity styling and opportunities like fashion shows 

- New York Fashion Week with designers like Jason Wu, Donna Karan, and Vera Wang 

- The importance of matching a client's style with their message

- The fulfillment of personal styling with speakers, coaches, consultants, and executives 

- On Jasmene’s experience in TV and film styling for different roles 

- Advice for aspiring stylists: Understand the fundamentals of color, body types, and styling

- The importance of networking and building professional relationships 

- Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and continuity in the industry 

- Explore different avenues of styling and do not be limited to the current path 

QUOTES 

"You are addressing a character. So it's not necessarily where you are addressing a celebrity; they're going to be rated on the red carpet based on their look. You are addressing a character." – Jasmene Bowdry

"You really want to start getting into some of the fundamental learning so that you can start your own personal styling business."  – Jasmene Bowdry

RESOURCES

Shop My Looks – Love my style? Shop all my looks and similar pieces directly in my LTK store: Shop here.

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this episode, Jose Bennett shares his remarkable journey from rapper to renowned branding expert and digital course creator. 

Jose explains to us how his diverse experiences in music, retail, and entrepreneurship shaped his understanding of emotional branding and audience connection.  He also reveals the secrets behind creating a lasting impression, using examples like Coca-Cola and Pepto to illustrate the importance of evoking emotional responses. He then offers practical advice on managing brand identity across platforms, and having a strategic approach to brand development — correlating it to constructing a house with a solid foundation. 

Join us in this conversation as Jose emphasizes the role of consistency and vulnerability in building trust with your audience. Tune in!

KEY POINTS

- Branding in various scenarios – concerts or everyday life 

- Jose's journey as a rapper to being a branding expert

- The importance of online presence and understanding your target audience

- The role of emotional response in branding

- On having consistency in branding and the need for reliability 

- Challenges of maintaining a consistent brand image

- On leveraging emotional responses to build a strong brand

- Have long-term relationships by showing up, being consistent and having authenticity 

QUOTES 

"We are multi-faceted individuals, right? The thing about it, though, we can do multiple things, but truly we can only be known for one." – Jose Bennett

“I want to set the world up for my grandkids in a better place, and that's by planting seeds, seeds of positivity. There's an old adage that says — if the oceans were still one drop [would] cause tidal waves at the shore, I'm every person I come in contact with. I'm drop, doing drops, drops, plant seeds, like everything." – Jose Bennett

"If our brands are automatically going to compartmentalize us, all we're doing is okay. You have multiple pieces — how do you still ensure that you are telling that correct narrative and story." – Jose Bennett

GUEST RESOURCES 

Jose Bennett

Website | featuringthebrand.com 

IG | @featuring_jose

RESOURCES

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

Welcome back to AND This! 

Today, I put a spotlight on the evolving journey of black-owned product brands in mass retail. Drawing from my experience as a corporate retail buyer, I reveal the challenges small brands face—uncovering the importance of performance metrics, strategic planning, and understanding the retailer’s mindset.

From packaging and pricing to shelf placement and sales thresholds, I also emphasize on what it takes to succeed in today’s competitive retail market. Don’t miss this episode for essential insights to help your brand avoid common pitfalls and thrive on retail shelves.

KEY POINTS

- The rise of black-owned brands in mass retail during COVID-19 

- On the benefits and challenges such as cash flow and operational capacity

- The importance of long-term planning and innovation for brands to stay relevant 

- Some reasons why brands cut down or pivoted in the retail landscape 

- The critical role of packaging, price point, and shelf placement for your brand

- On being accountable by understanding retailer terms, conditions, and responsibilities

- The pivotal role of strategic decision-making in navigating mass retail

QUOTES 

“A retailer is not responsible for your sales as a product business. You are still responsible for the marketing and trying to get traffic into that retail store.” – Jasmene Bowdry

“Most small businesses are not prepared for mass retail at the level that they think.” – Jasmene Bowdry

“Retail shelf space is real estate. It costs money down to the square footage. And so, if your brand isn't performing, they have to make a decision —  this is in the bottom 20% of my products that are being sold, it has to go.” – Jasmene Bowdry

RESOURCES

Free Fall Trend Report – Grab your free guide with 20+ hot fall trends, including styling tips to incorporate them seamlessly into your wardrobe: Download it here.

Checklist Before the Pitch – Position your brand for mass retail success with my free checklist tailored for product-based business owners: Get it here.

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

Ashley Fox, CEO of Empify and trailblazer in financial education, joins us to discuss how loss, resilience, and vision have shaped her purpose. In this episode, Ashley shares how her father’s passing propelled her mission to make financial freedom attainable for everyone—not just the wealthy.

From her Wall Street beginnings to building a thriving business now ranked #652 on the Inc. 5000 list, Ashley reveals how she teaches underserved communities to create and preserve wealth. Learn about her unique approach to personal growth, financial education, and why every step toward wealth begins with believing you deserve it.

Our conversation will leave you inspired to rethink legacy, embrace growth, and take the first step on your investment journey.

KEY POINTS

- Ashley's recent achievements such as Empify’s recognition to the Inc. 5000 list

- On being inspired by Wall Street experience to entrepreneurship

- The importance of financial education and legacy

- On the pivotal role of self-awareness, therapy, and managing emotions as a leader

- How Ashley uses fashion to redefine perceptions of wealth and connect with people

- Key advice: Start small, open a brokerage account, and make consistent contributions

- Ashley's vision for a scalable, sellable $3 billion business

- On prioritizing empathy, team development, and creating a supportive work environment

QUOTES 

“I think of limitlessness and abundance because there's so much more that you can do and become, and you don't have to choose. Why not choose it all?” – Ashley Fox 

“This is the season of outside for me. I think I spent a lot of time building empathy on the inside and then realizing that I need the world to know we exist, who we are, what we do, and the impact that we make. And I just made a decision to just go outside.” – Ashley Fox 

“You can't make anybody do something they don't want to do. But you can be the person who inspires people to do because your light is shining.” – Ashley Fox 

GUEST RESOURCES 

Ashley Fox 

IG | @_ashleymfox/ 

RESOURCES

Wardrobe Essentials Checklist – Upgrade your wardrobe effortlessly with my free checklist of must-have essentials: Download it here.

1-on-1 Style Discovery Call – Ready to elevate your style? Book a personalized styling session to match your message, body type, and budget: Schedule now.

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this heartfelt episode, Jasmene opens up about her decision to freeze her eggs—a process that brought emotional, physical, and financial challenges. She reflects on her journey, from grappling with societal expectations and personal shame to embracing the empowerment that comes with taking control of her reproductive future.

Jasmene sheds light on the often-overlooked conversations around fertility in the Black community, sharing why she wishes she had considered egg freezing in her 20s. She also addresses the complexities of single motherhood, faith, and making informed reproductive choices. This is a conversation every woman needs to hear about navigating motherhood on your terms.

Tune in for an honest discussion on breaking shame, embracing options, and empowering yourself to make the choices that align with your life goals.

KEY POINTS

- Jasmene’s decision to freeze her eggs

- The lack of discussion egg freezing in the Black community

- Jasmene’s initial egg-freezing consultation, its cost, and other considerations 

- Egg freezing and health issues faced by Jasmene during its process 

- On guaranteed success, waiting for a partner, or co-parenting with a friend 

- The importance of empowering women in their reproductive health choices 

- Advice on women: Look into employer benefits for fertility services

QUOTES 

“I want you to release the shame because I know that there's somebody out there that may potentially be going through this, thinking about this, wanting to do this—-and they feel like it's not supposed to be this way. But, I want to empower you, because this is how I had to empower myself." – Jasmene Bowdry 

“Had I known this when I was in my 20s, I probably would have done this sooner. If you are a young woman and you are with the mindset of, ‘I have time, I don't have to think about that right now,’ And then life comes at you fast, and next thing, you may not have an opportunity." – Jasmene Bowdry 

RESOURCES

My fertility doctor hope-fertility.com

Other clinics:kindbody.com

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

Welcome to Season 2 of AND This! In this premiere episode, we sit down with Mahdi Woodard, a marketing and brand strategist who’s redefining how we navigate the social media landscape.

Mahdi unpacks the tension between personal and professional branding, revealing why it’s time to rethink how we show up online. He also shares strategic insights on balancing authenticity and adaptability while tackling common social media challenges—from staying ahead of algorithms to embracing AI tools like ChatGPT.

We also explore the power of style in shaping perception and maximizing opportunities. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, content creator, or just someone looking to elevate your online presence, this episode offers actionable strategies and fresh perspectives to help you thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Tune in for a masterclass in blending strategy, creativity, and confidence!

KEY POINTS

- Navigating the tension between personal and professional demands on social media

- The challenges and benefits of having multiple social media accounts 

- On balancing personal & professional content through personal interests

- The pivotal role of AI in social media to enhance efficiency and engagement

- On embracing authenticity on social media by staying true to your values

- The impact of personal style on social media presence 

- On adapting social media strategies and having a growth mindset 

QUOTES 

“Social media has changed so much. There was a time when that aesthetic curated feed with the business. If you didn't have it, you looked unprofessional. Then we went to the other side, where it was just completely raw, organic, and now we're finding our fit back to the middle.” – Mahdi Woodard

“You want to maximize your revenue? Pay attention to the importance of image. Pay attention to how you look and dress the part.” – Mahdi Woodard

GUEST RESOURCES 

Mahdi Woodard

IG | @mahdiwoodard

RESOURCES

Free Fall Trend Report – Grab your free guide with 20+ hot fall trends, including styling tips to incorporate them seamlessly into your wardrobe: Download it here.

Shop My Looks – Love my style? Shop all my looks and similar pieces directly in my LTK store: Shop here.

Wardrobe Essentials Checklist – Upgrade your wardrobe effortlessly with my free checklist of must-have essentials: Download it here.

1-on-1 Style Discovery Call – Ready to elevate your style? Book a personalized styling session to match your message, body type, and budget: Schedule now.

Checklist Before the Pitch – Position your brand for mass retail success with my free checklist tailored for product-based business owners: Get it here.

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

🎉 Season 2 is here! Get ready for a bold, unfiltered, and transformational season of AND This, where we’re diving deeper into the conversations that matter most.

This season, we’re bringing the energy, the realness, and the strategies you’ve been waiting for. From embracing innovation in business to redefining what it means to truly take up space, AND This is your go-to space for unapologetic growth, authentic storytelling, and actionable advice.

This season is about moving with intention, celebrating your authenticity, and learning how to own every room you step into—whether it’s in business, relationships, or personal growth.

Mark your calendars: Season 2 officially launches December 4, 2024, with episodes that will challenge, inspire, and equip you to take your next big leap.

🎧 Tune in and join the movement. It’s time to throw some elbows and take up space.

Ever wonder why your wardrobe isn't working for you the way you'd hoped? In this segment, I’m revealing the top three styling mistakes that could be holding you back. From wardrobe mishaps to shopping blunders, discover what’s been sabotaging your style game and how you can fix it. Tune in to learn how to transform your look and elevate your confidence with some expert tips that you won’t want to miss!

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9-the-hidden-power-of-your-wardrobe-how-to/id1754566090?i=1000666908994

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21AfjQqxw9oG7uasdql8Qd?si=c554f646d96341a6

Youtube: https://youtu.be/iNIWZwYfJUs

RESOURCES

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

[WARDROBE CHECKLIST] Ready to revamp your style effortlessly? Get your free Wardrobe Essentials Checklist to start upgrading your wardrobe with my must-have timeless pieces. Visit this link to grab your free checklist and let's elevate your style starting today!

[DIGITAL LIBRARY] Unlock your ecommerce potential and scale your business with my digital resource library at jasmenebowdry.shop! This digital library holds years of industry knowledge, insider tips, actionable insights and advanced strategies to help you scale your business, align your personal style with your message, and prepare for mass retail placement. Visit jasmenebowdry.shop and let's take your brand to the masses!

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, Necole Kane reveals the bold moves and smart strategies that fueled the launch of My Happy Flo. Discover how her unwavering confidence led her to order a whopping 5,000 bottles for her first inventory. What was her secret? A clever period health quiz that turned over 2,000 responses into $25,000 in pre-orders within just seven days. Tune in to hear how Necole’s innovative approach and keen insights can inspire you to take your product-based business to the next level. Learn why outsourcing is crucial and how to harness the power of a warm audience to supercharge your launch.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/8-queen-of-career-pivots-necole-kane-on-truths-about/id1754566090?i=1000666126804

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VeiTedf1RAoXBAkI8MdgV?si=d2910482efb44d20

Youtube: https://youtu.be/EdIEfRjUJ9g?si=0UJizR_UNaiUPe8X

GUEST RESOURCES 

Necole Kane

IG | @hellonecole

RESOURCES

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

[WARDROBE CHECKLIST] Ready to revamp your style effortlessly? Get your free Wardrobe Essentials Checklist to start upgrading your wardrobe with my must-have timeless pieces. Visit this link to grab your free checklist and let's elevate your style starting today!

[DIGITAL LIBRARY] Unlock your ecommerce potential and scale your business with my digital resource library at jasmenebowdry.shop! This digital library holds years of industry knowledge, insider tips, actionable insights and advanced strategies to help you scale your business, align your personal style with your message, and prepare for mass retail placement. Visit jasmenebowdry.shop and let's take your brand to the masses!

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network

In this segment, I share essential tips to help your brand succeed in the retail space. Learn about common mistakes that lead to retail failure and how to avoid them, the importance of timely shipping, understanding your brand's identity, and maintaining strong relationships with retail buyers.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/7-retail-reality-check-what-you-really-need-to-know/id1754566090?i=1000665280791

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Iak6J9i0rIM0hQi7vGJ60?si=358c94f8028f4e70

Youtube: https://youtu.be/OBARlX3MFow?si=Mzg6l1k0qiGzMAA2

RESOURCES

Jasmene Bowdry 

IG | @jasmenebowdry

[WARDROBE CHECKLIST] Ready to revamp your style effortlessly? Get your free Wardrobe Essentials Checklist to start upgrading your wardrobe with my must-have timeless pieces. Visit this link to grab your free checklist and let's elevate your style starting today!

[DIGITAL LIBRARY] Unlock your ecommerce potential and scale your business with my digital resource library at jasmenebowdry.shop! This digital library holds years of industry knowledge, insider tips, actionable insights and advanced strategies to help you scale your business, align your personal style with your message, and prepare for mass retail placement. Visit jasmenebowdry.shop and let's take your brand to the masses!

AND This is produced by EPYC Media Network