In this episode of BUILDING & BREAKING, we take a closer look at Rihanna, not just as an artist, but as a personal brand that has redefined what it means to lead, serve, and build businesses that matter.

We explore how Rihanna’s brand began with a purpose, to challenge the lack of representation in beauty and culture, and how that clarity shaped everything from Fenty Beauty to Savage X Fenty. This isn’t about celebrity. It’s about service, trust, and an emotional, human connection.

You’ll also hear why I’ve decided to transition Passion Squared to a personal brand after 13 years (spoiler: I’ve resisted this for a long time), and why personal brands, when built in service to others, are becoming more powerful than ever in today’s trust economy.

In this episode

• The difference between personal and business brands and why both are built around who you serve
• A breakdown of Rihanna vs. Fenty using Nina's brand story framework
• How to leverage your personal brand to grow your business brand
• What the Red Lobster CEO and ELF’s Twitch strategy have to do with personal brands and leadership
• Why your brand is not what you do, it’s how people feel when they experience your brand

Whether you’re a hairstylist, salon owner, creative, or a pro beauty brand exec, this episode will help you rethink how your personal brand can impact your business.

Thank you so much for listening and sharing this episode with your business besties.