Everyone blames the braids. I don’t.

In this episode, I explain why what you do before your braid appointment has the biggest impact on preventing breakage. Learn the simple steps that help protect your fine natural hair before, during, and after braids.

Download my free guide, Before You Break Another Strand, at NaturalBeautyByVal.app.

Your hair problem is usually a symptom. My job is to find the pattern behind it.

Welcome back to Crown Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing a simple reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to make progress. Whether you’re working on your hair, your health, your business, or your personal growth, consistency matters more than perfection.

Join me as I discuss giving yourself grace, showing up anyway, and trusting the process.

Visit NaturalBeautyByVal.app for hair education, resources, and upcoming tools designed specifically for women with fine natural hair.

Season 2, Episode 1: From Haiti to Hair — How My Journey Shaped the Fine Hair Expert

In this Season 2 premiere of Crowned Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair, I’m sharing a little more about the woman behind the brand.

From growing up in Haiti to becoming a licensed cosmetologist and Fine Natural Hair Expert, this episode takes you through my personal journey, my passion for healthy hair, and the experiences that shaped the work I do today.

We’ll talk about where my love for hair began, why I became dedicated to helping women with fine natural hair, and what’s next for Natural Beauty by Val.

If you’ve ever wondered who Valerie Duplan is beyond the hairstyles, this episode is for you.

Visit NaturalBeautyByVal.com to learn more, explore resources, and stay connected as we continue this journey together.

Thank you for listening to Crowned Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair.

In Episode 10 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie closes out the season by sharing what stylists notice—even when clients don’t say a word.

From buildup and tension to thinning areas and signs of stress, she explains how your hair tells its own story and why awareness matters in maintaining healthy hair.

This final episode brings the series full circle, highlighting the importance of honesty, consistency, and understanding how your hair responds over time—especially for fine natural hair.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.

In Episode 9 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie addresses a common mistake—relying on more products instead of building a consistent hair care routine.

She explains how product overload can lead to buildup, dryness, and poor results, especially for fine natural hair, and why understanding your routine is more important than constantly switching products.

This episode helps you shift from guessing with products to creating a system that actually supports healthy hair.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.

In Episode 8 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie explains why your hair’s history plays a major role in how it responds to styling and care.

From previous styles and tension to damage that hasn’t fully grown out, she breaks down how your hair carries everything it’s been through—especially with fine natural hair.

This episode highlights the importance of being honest about past experiences so your stylist can make the best decisions to protect your hair moving forward.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.

In Episode 7 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie talks about the gap between inspiration and reality when it comes to hairstyles.

She explains why bringing in a style your hair isn’t ready for can lead to tension, stress, or breakage—especially with fine natural hair.

This episode focuses on understanding your hair’s current condition, adjusting expectations, and working with your stylist to achieve results that protect your hair, not damage it.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.

In Episode 6 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie breaks down a common misconception—just because a style is called “protective” doesn’t mean it’s actually protecting your hair.

She explains how tension, weight, and improper installation can lead to stress, especially for fine natural hair, resulting in breakage instead of protection.

This episode focuses on understanding what truly makes a style protective and how to choose options that support the health of your hair.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.

In Episode 5 of the Lying to Your Stylist series, Valerie addresses one of the most common challenges in hair care—wanting healthy hair while avoiding trims.

She explains how holding on to split or damaged ends can actually lead to more breakage over time, and why trims are an essential part of maintaining length, not losing it.

This episode breaks down the difference between growth and retention, helping you understand why letting go of damaged ends can support stronger, healthier hair.

🎙 CROWNED Conversations: Real Talk for Fine Natural Hair

Created by Natural Beauty by Val 👑

Subscribers hear bonus content and early episodes first.