Introducing From Eczema to Tower 28: Amy Liu on Building with Purpose, Raising Smart Capital, and Owning Your Story from Makers Mindset .

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Amy Liu’s journey to redefining clean beauty started in her own skin. As someone with eczema, she knew firsthand the struggle of finding beauty products that were both safe and effective. The industry was full of promises, but few products delivered results without irritation.  

After years of working behind the scenes at Smashbox, Kate Somerville, and Josie Maran Cosmetics, Amy found herself at a crossroads. She had built brands for others, but what about a brand built for people like her? People who wanted beauty without compromise? At 40, she took the leap and launched Tower 28, the first and only beauty brand 100% compliant with the National Eczema Association’s ingredient guidelines.  

In this episode, Nancy and Amy unpack the highs and lows of entrepreneurship—overcoming the fear of failure, scaling a business while staying true to her mission, and bringing her husband on board as CFO. Recognized as Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year for Greater Los Angeles and one of Goldman Sachs’ most exceptional entrepreneurs, Amy has proven that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of integrity.  

This is a conversation about resilience, leadership, and the power of collaboration over competition. Above all, it’s a story about turning a personal struggle into a movement that’s changing the face of beauty.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction

[04:26] Struggling with eczema and the need for safe beauty products

[05:52] Discovering the flaws in clean beauty

[07:38] Why it took her so long to start her own business

[08:54] Getting her first investment and launching Tower 28

[10:42] Why launching at 40 was the right decision

[11:58] The myth of overnight success and why experience matters

[13:21] The role of a CEO and why she chose to stay in the position

[14:47] Challenges of balancing leadership with business growth

[16:32] Bringing her husband in as CFO and working with a spouse

[18:15] Breaking through the crowded beauty market

[19:44] The philosophy behind Tower 28’s product development

[21:18] Why sensitive skin testing sets Tower 28 apart

[22:53] Expanding at Sephora and becoming a top-performing brand

[24:36] When to raise money and how to choose the right investors

[26:24] Private equity, beauty playbooks, and scaling successfully

[28:10] The challenges of hiring and building the right team

[30:28] Leadership lessons and learning from mistakes

[32:42] Creating Clean Beauty Summer School and supporting founders

[34:20] The importance of representation in the beauty industry

[36:08] Why collaboration is more powerful than competition

[38:35] Advice for struggling entrepreneurs in a competitive market

Resources Mentioned:

Tower 28 | Website

National Eczema Association | Website

Sephora Clean | Website

Goop Clean | Website

Credo Clean | Website

Clean Beauty Summer School | Website

Follow Nancy Twine:

Instagram: @nancytwine

www.nancytwine.com

Follow Makers Mindset:

Instagram: @makersmindsetspace

TikTok: @themakersmindset

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

May is one of the BEST times in DC. We have that narrow window of perfect springtime weather. There’s a lot going on and people  actually seem…excited to be out and about. 

To help you stave off FOMO, the City Cast DC gang has your guide to making the most of May in DC, including a Hong Kong-style night market, a flower festival, and camping recommendations.

If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast community.

For even more tips on how to make the most of May in DC, check out Hey DC’s take on what to do this month. 

City Cast DC’s guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsor, District Bridges. And get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. 

Learn more about the sponsors of this May 1st episode:

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Introducing Live from SXSW - The Future of Scientific Communications Through Podcasting from Science Will Win.

Follow the show: Science Will Win

Podcasting has become essential for communicating breakthroughs in science, offering an accessible and engaging platform to reach diverse audiences. This evolving medium fosters deeper connections by delivering trusted information in accessible and compelling ways. In this conversation, audio makers from Pfizer, Acast, and TED, discuss what it takes to stand out in the science podcast space, insights on strategy, and how they're working to shape the future of health communication.

Moderator
• Aaron Strout, Former CMO of Real Chemistry and Health Podcaster

Speakers
• Erica Santiago, Executive/Digital Communications & Podcast Strategy, Pfizer
• Veronika Taylor, SVP of Acast’s Creator Network
• Shoshana Ungerleider MD, Host and Producer of TED Health Podcast

This episode was recorded live in Austin, TX on Monday, March 10, as part of Pfizer’s takeover of the South by Southwest podcasting lounge.

Please fill out our short survey so we can get to know our listeners better: pfizer.com/podcastsurvey

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Donald Trump has been in office for 100 days. And with all the big changes his administration has brought to the DMV, it’s easy for the actual impact of it to get lost in the deluge of stories. The City Cast team is here to break down what the first 100 days of his administration has meant for DC. 

Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. 

Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. 

Learn more about the sponsors of this April 30th episode:

Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST

District Bridges

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Introducing Oprah and a Doctor Explore What Near Death Experiences Reveal About Life and Beyond from The Oprah Podcast.

Follow the show: The Oprah Podcast

BUY THE BOOK!

"After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond" by Dr. Bruce Greyson

https://books.apple.com/us/book/after/id1521273820

This episode of The Oprah Podcast features Dr. Bruce Greyson, one of the world's leading experts on near death experiences. As a scientist and physician, Dr. Greyson has been studying these fascinating phenomena for decades. He and Oprah dive deep into near death encounters and speak with people who have undergone their own transformative episodes, including Oscar nominated actor Jeremy Renner, who described his event as harrowing but also exhilaratingly peaceful. Their stories reveal striking similarities and shed light on how facing death transformed their understanding of not only life, but what comes after. Most people come away from a near death experience with an expanded view of consciousness and consider the possibility that death might not be the end. As Dr. Greyson explains, this “knowing” has caused people around the world to reexamine their own life's journey and view death as nothing to fear.

"My Next Breath: A Memoir" by Jeremy Renner

"7 Lessons from Heaven" by Dr. Mary C. Neal

https://books.apple.com/us/book/7-lessons-from-heaven/id1200283041

"To Heaven and Back" by Dr. Mary C. Neal

https://books.apple.com/us/book/to-heaven-and-back/id528963069

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@Oprah

Follow Oprah Winfrey on Social:

https://www.instagram.com/oprah/

https://www.facebook.com/oprahwinfrey/

Listen to the full podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381

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DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

The Washington Commanders announced plans to build a stadium on the RFK site, and a whole neighborhood around it. But there are still a few hurdles to jump before this stadium actually becomes a thing. Axios’ Cuneyt Dil was at the announcement, and he’s here to tell us if we should be excited or skeptical.

Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.

Learn more about the sponsors of this April 29th episode:

Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST

Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

District Bridges

Gala Theatre

Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour

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Introducing Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson: Break the Generational Patterns Holding You Back (How to Build Confidence, Responsibility, and Emotional Resilience) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Can you remember the first time you felt truly in charge of your own decisions?

What’s one thing you picked up from your family that you wish you could unlearn?

In this heartfelt episode, Jay Shetty sits down with former First Lady Michelle Obama and her brother, coach and mentor Craig Robinson, for an intimate conversation centered around family, resilience, and the lasting impact of love and connection.

Michelle and Craig reminisce about the powerful values instilled by their parents, a deep sense of independence and unwavering family loyalty. Even through financial struggles, their parents cultivated a home filled with trust and safety, making it clear that family would always be a source of strength. Memories of birthdays around the kitchen table, houses bustling with extended relatives, and the steady presence of grandparents and cousins all contributed to a lifelong sense of belonging and support that continues to influence their lives.

As they journeyed into adulthood, both Michelle and Craig relied on therapy, genuine friendships, and a strong community to help them face life’s transitions, grief, and the many complexities of growing up. Michelle shares how seeking guidance and embracing self-reflection, especially during moments of change, has been central to her personal growth, demonstrating the value of openness, adaptability, and continuous learning throughout every stage of life.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Foster Family Unity During Tough Times

How to Nurture Independence in Children

How to Unlearn Limiting Beliefs from Your Upbringing

How to Create Safe Spaces for Honest Conversations

How to Teach Empathy Through Parenting

How to Balance Protection and Freedom as a Parent

How to Normalize Therapy and Emotional Support

Their conversation is a moving testament to the impact of compassion, authenticity, and purposeful living, a reminder that life’s greatest challenges can be met with empathy, courage, and hope.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.  

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there!  

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

02:00 The Kind of Love Only Siblings Understand

04:15 What was the First Secret You Shared With Each Other?

09:53 Raised To Be Independent Children In A Loving Community

14:55 How Different Generations Celebrate Birthdays

17:00 How to Unlearn Your Inner Fears

19:47 The Fear Of What Could Happen Can Hinder Personal Growth

25:28 What a Childhood Encounter with Police Taught Me About Bias

29:35 Being Judged By The Color Of Your Skin

31:54 Racism Is Still An Issue

34:07 How to Raise Resilient Children

35:59 Don't Make Assumptions Based On Your Emotions

38:17 Don't Let Negative Thoughts Dictate Your Actions

40:48 The Power Of Good Parenting

48:41 How To Prioritize Being A Parent While Chasing Your Dreams

52:08 Parents Aren't Responsible For Their Children's Happiness

58:07 Focus On Cultivating Independence in Your Children

01:02:24 What Is Your Form Of Therapy?

01:11:08 Are You Doing Enough?

01:16:10 How To Become A Good Parent

01:37 What Would Your Mother Be Most Proud Of?

Episode Resources:

Michelle Obama | Instagram

Michelle Obama | Facebook

Michelle Obama | YouTube

Michelle Obama | Books

Obama Foundation 

The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times

Craig Robinson | Instagram 

Craig Robinson | X

IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Last week, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a local case involving a group of conservative Montgomery County parents who want to be able to yank their kids out of classes where they talk about LGBTQ themes. It could set a precedent that frightens a lot of locals. Nicole Asbury, who’s been covering it for the Washington Post, is here to tell us about it.

Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.

Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.

Learn more about the sponsors of this April 28th episode:

Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST

District Bridges

Gala Theatre

Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Introducing Ron Howard: “Understand the entertainment value of an idea.” from Math & Magic: Stories from the Frontiers of Marketing with Bob Pittman.

Follow the show: Math & Magic: Stories from the Frontiers of Marketing with Bob Pittman

Ron Howard is an Academy Award, Golden Globe, Emmy, and Grammy award-winning film director. With work spanning from comedies like Splash and Parenthood to critically acclaimed dramas like Apollo 13, Frost/Nixon and A Beautiful Mind, he is one of the most popular and prolific filmmakers of the last 50 years. His first on-screen appearance was at just 18 months old and he was cast as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show at age five. By the time he was 10, adults on set predicted he would make a great director; but at the time, it was a major challenge to transition from acting to directing feature films. In his conversation with Bob, Ron shares how he leveraged one green light to make that improbable jump, how his feelings about collaboration have changed over his career, and his advice for young people in the entertainment industry today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

The Washington Post’s Marc Fisher joins our roundup to talk about the controversies around DC’s US Attorney nominee, the city’s efforts to dismantle homeless encampments, and the very weird theft of Kristi Noem’s purse. Plus, a members-only fourth section about the surprising local history of Toys R Us, soon to be a major motion picture. 

Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.

Learn more about the sponsors of this April 25th episode:

Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+.

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The Pew Charitable Trusts

Nace Law Group

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