Shades & Layers

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It all started with a wish for a satin-lined beach hat. When Rachel Osborne could not find one on the market, she set about creating her own.  She spent 2023 researching and testing her concept for luxury satin lined, and adjustable hats that would offer "no-frizz" experience for curly and kinky hair. As a result, her brand RAINA was born.

The creation of RAINA is very much tied to Rachael's own natural hair journey, which  resonates with anyone who's ever felt the pressure to conform to so-called conventional beauty standards. It took a while for her to accept and celebrate her own natural curls. Creating this line of high-end hats is a testament to where she is on her natural hair journey: she now sees her curls as the embodiment of elegance and beauty. She also believes that it is time for curly hair to be included in the development of all luxury hair products.

As every entrepreneur will attest, the entrepreneurial career and lifestyle choice is an opportunity for personal growth, and for building deep community bonds. Rachael shares her own learning curves and mindset shifts that have made her successful so far. She also offers some advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

LINKS AND MENTIONS 

• Jamie Kern Lima - Beauty entrepreneur and former founder of IT Cosmetics
• Psycho Cybernetics by Maxwell Multz 
• Purple Cow by Seth Godin 
• Naptural85 

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Fikile "Fix" Moeti calls herself a Lightworker and you’ll find out what she means by that in this episode. The Social Entrepreneur is the founder of a pay-it-forward education and women-focused social enterprise, The Fix Scholarship. She is a well-known former radio DJ and MTV South Africa presenter. 

This long-time yogi is now navigating a new chapter as a mom and owner of a beachfront yoga studio and bar called The Yoga Bar, on the East African island of Zanzibar. Her work with The Fix Scholarship has also led a to a new project that she co-founded with one of the scholarship alumni, and it’s called African Affirmations, an inclusive 30-card deck for children, and the young at heart. You’ll also hear how her family’s legacy of activism and education has been instrumental in shaping her life today and career.  

Fikile ‘Fix’ Moeti’s story isn't just about change; it's a beacon for anyone yearning to pursue creativity and authenticity while navigating life's ups and downs. Find out how business, life and local traditions intertwine to create the perfect conditions for slow living and creativity. 

 LINKS AND MENTIONS

https://africanaffirmations.org/ 

Gugu Mbhata Raw (Actress)  

Thandile Lujabe-Rankoe (Diplomat and Fikile’s grandmother) 

Fix Scholarship

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Bonnie Meslane is the Founder of the online lifestyle and culture magazine, Nounouche Online. The Johannesburg-based publisher is also the force behind the A-list Public Relations and Communications company,  Azania Public, and like all multi-hyphenates, she also works as in the marketing of the iconic and legendary music radio station, Kaya FM.

Bonnie and her team at Nounouche Online are story driven and dedicated to amplifying the voices that truly shape our world and culture - in their world, that means staying away from scandals and telling the stories of change makers, even if they are not celebrities.

In our conversation we cover a lot of ground, from leadership to readership, as well as how to thrive with grace and determination as a multi-hyphenate. We reflect on the shift from hard to soft skills in modern leadership and dissect the complexities that come with being in a position of authority. We discuss the role of a fitness routing in cultivating discipline, building resilience, and having fortitude. 

Bonnie Meslane  exemplifies what it means to lead with inspiration, and how to leave a legacy through the impact of your work.

LINKS AND MENTIONS

Nounouche Online
Azania Public 

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Monique Webber is the visionary founder of MLWPR Fashion and Beauty PR Agency. Her story isn't just about the sparkle of dressing celebrities in Herve Leger's iconic ensembles; it's a story about ambition, resilience, and a commitment to lifting up minority, local, and women-owned brands.

Monique started out as a teen model and progressed to publicity. She worked with A-listers and learned a lot during her two decade plus career. In 2020 she stepped out on her own and she talks about all the things that gave her courage to strike out and pursue a dream she visualized during an encounter with Oprah Winfrey....

In our conversation, we discuss the relentless drive it takes to flourish in public relations as well as the importance of diversifying your income streams to run a successful agency. We get into the merits of mentorship and how applying for grants can support you in your entrepreneurial journey. Monique also recently underwent treatment for cancer and she talks about how keeping a positive attitude got her through this difficult period.

Finally, Monique shares the best advise she has ever received, it was from her late father and it simply says: "Believe In Yourself."

LINKS AND MENTIONS

MLWPR Agency IG Profile and Website
Contact Monique: [email protected]
BeyGOOD Foundation
Unsun Cosmetics
Shea Radiance

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Melaney Oldenhoff, Founder and Creative Director of WhatWeCherish, a curated market place for handmade accessories and home décor from the African continent.  Melaney shares how she pivoted from New York-based fashion stylist to joining the  vanguard of African design in Johannesburg. Her story is a testament to endurance and vision, championing artisans while navigating the intricacies of e-commerce and forging a new path for women-owned and black-owned brands. 

In our conversation, Melaney outlines her amazing journey from inspiration to launch and discusses the importance of knowing when to pivot. Melaney recently transitioned WhatWeCherish  from direct-to-customer to a business-to-business model, which has been instrumental in her mission to amplify the voices of African creators in the world's creative economy.  Melaney's journey is bigger than just selling products; it's a vision that centers new narratives about African creators and reinforcing Africa's leadership in sustainably designed products.

Melaney's journey will inspire you to be curious about what the rest of the African continent has to offer.

LINKS AND MENTIONS

WhatWeCherish is on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whatwecherish/
Melaney will be happy to hear directly from you too - https://www.instagram.com/melaneyoldenhof/
Visit the company website and see the beautiful designs - https://whatwecherish.com/

Thebe Magugu - https://www.thebemagugu.com/

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Embark on an inspiring journey with the remarkable Kirstie Fleur, a Ghanaian-American beacon of creativity and advocacy. Our conversation explores her multi-disciplinary artistry that finds expression in all her life's pursuits, from her brave transition from the American Air Force to fashion's forefront, to her passionate embodiment of social entrepreneurship with her brand, Freedom Fleur.

Kirstie's story is one of resilience and transformation, illustrating the potency of fashion as a vehicle for change and the profound impact of her 'Soul Health' approach on advocating for justice and empowering women founders.

As we unravel the threads of Kirstie's multifaceted identity, we traverse the sacred terrain of 'soul health' and self-discovery. Kirstie opens up about the necessity of internal work, especially for women who often balance various roles and societal pressures. She illuminates the path to finding one's essence, emphasizing the importance of solitude in nurturing well-being and inspiring creativity. The dialogue offers a blueprint for listeners to pursue their desires and articulate their goals while harmoniously blending the many facets of their lives.

In the fluid dance of solitude and social impact, Kirstie's Freedom Fleur brand emerges as a symbol of luxury with a conscience—fashion that fosters freedom and fairness. We delve into the intricacies of ethical sourcing and the human connections that fortify her brand's foundation. And in a melodic twist, Kirstie's foray into music as a form of creative activism offers a resonant close to our episode. Her Spotify playlist, a curated collection of freedom and justice, awaits in the show notes, inviting you to experience the rhythms that drive her mission. Join us, and let Kirstie's narrative awaken your own aspirations for change.


Everything Kirstie - https://kirstiefleur.com
Kirstie's Socials - https://www.facebook.com/kirstie.f.horton (FB) and https://www.instagram.com/kirstiefleur/ (IG)

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Unlock the secrets of securing investment and mastering entrepreneurship with our esteemed guest, Jennifer Dyer. As a five-time CEO and seasoned mentor, Jennifer brings a treasure trove of insights from her experience in raising over $13 million, particularly for women and minority entrepreneurs. This episode is a candid exploration into the world of alternative funding, where we unravel the nuances of securing capital from high net worth individuals—quite a different ballgame from the traditional venture capitalist approach.

The journey to entrepreneurial success is fraught with challenges, yet it's rich with opportunities for growth and learning. Jennifer shares her professional evolution, from leading businesses to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs through her innovative online education platform, E100 Clubs. Discover the pivotal criteria for entrepreneurs looking to scale their ventures and how the E100 Clubs provide the crucial knowledge and community support to propel businesses forward. If you're seeking to enhance your entrepreneurial acumen, this episode is your gateway to actionable education tailored to the dynamic world of business.

We also delve into Jennifer's personal odyssey, a testament to resilience and the power of mentorship. Her transition from an aspirant TV presenter facing a non-diverse UK media landscape to a flourishing entrepreneur is not just inspiring—it's a masterclass in pivoting and perseverance. Hear how encounters with influential mentors like Matthew Knowles helped shape her resolve to carve out a place at the table for herself and others. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a rallying cry for all who dare to persevere in the face of adversity on their entrepreneurial path.

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Dr. Margaret Towolawi is a physician whose canvas stretches from her medical clinic to the entrepreneurial landscape of wellness and skincare. Her story is an inspiring tale of transition, as she harmonizes the six pillars of lifestyle medicine with heartfelt entrepreneurship. In our conversation, we discuss the nurturing environment of her Nurture Well Center, the innovative skincare solutions she offers through her SkinStat MD med spa, and the personalization at the heart of her direct primary care model, designed to educate and connect with patients more deeply.

Dr. Towolawi is also a published author and her first children's book, "Ayomide's Train Ride to Graceland" was her way to transform a personal loss into solace for others. She addresses her grief with grace and offers families a way to discuss child loss and remember the lost siblings. Her second book "Ayomide and Seyi's Kitchen" plants the seeds of healthy eating in young minds. Her books help to guide and support families with sensitivity and strength through a vibrant blend of her Nigerian heritage, medical expertise, and the profound experiences of motherhood.

We also find out what she would include in her future memoir "You Think You Know, But You Have No Idea," ....


DR. TOWOLAWI'S WORK AND OTHER RESOURCES

To learn more about Dr. Towolawi's Work you can visit the pages listed below:
Skinstatmd.com - https://www.skinstatmd.com/
Nurturewellcenter.com - https://www.nurturewellcenter.com/
Buy her books HERE
You can also visit her Instagram Page

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We've come to the end of Season 7 and we end it with a special episode featuring the creation of the first inclusive swimming cap.

Swimma Caps is founded with inclusion at heart. They are more than a product company, they are a catalyst for change. Since inception, the Swimma team have been challenging hair discrimination in many areas including South African schools and making waves in the Black community. 

Founder, Nomvuyo Treffers shares the impact of her work on people's lives, revealing how her brand is not just about accommodating hair, but about encouraging swimming despite limited access to pools for Black and Brown folks. We also unpack her expansion into the American market, the growth of her product line to include shower caps and swimming goggles, competitive markets, and how she remains authentic as her business grows.
 
 We also get personal with Nomvuyo, delving into her life beyond the business. From her supportive parents to her life mantra and her passion for swimming that bloomed late in her adult years, Nomvuyo's story is encouraging. Plus, we discuss the importance of social media presence for her business and where to get your hands on these inclusive swim caps.

LINKS AND MENTIONS

Instagram Account - https://www.instagram.com/swimma_caps/ 
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/swimmacaps 
Essence Festival of Culture - https://www.essence.com/efoc23-soko-mkt/ 
 

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Today’s episode is about overcoming fear of uncertainty, getting out of your comfort zone and pivoting with purpose. 

My guest on Shades and Layers is Stefanie Julia Moton, a business coach for online fitness coaches who shares how she transitioned from a career in federal law enforcement to becoming the founder of Catch Flights and Fitness and Profitable Passion and Purpose (P3). 

Stefanie has always loved sports and she used this passion to create a thriving online business with clients who affectionately called her the Fitness Challenge Lady. At the same time, she was navigating a full-time job which came with a very busy travel schedule. She candidly shares how the global pandemic became a catalyst for her to address burnout and refocus on her wellness passion. Stefanie accredits mindset and self-care to her success as a side hustler. She also gives us a glance into her transition from solopreneur to organizational leader and the significance of a solid support system.

Among the issues discussed during our conversation, is the fact that only 10% of the online fitness and wellness market is owned by black women leaders. Stefanie shares her thought-provoking reflections on this fact, how she’s working to increase the representation and celebrate the success of black women in this space. We uncover the systemic barriers and mindsets contributing to this disparity, highlighting the need for increased support and representation. 

I hope you will be inspired by Stefanie’s career transformation and mission to bring about meaningful change in the fitness industry. 

LINKS AND MENTIONS

@thestefaniejulia - Instagram handle for Stefanie Julia where you can find a link.tree to all of her work
Catch Flights and Fitness - Facebook Page for Julia's online challenges

The Retreat Maven - Katherine Searcy is Stefanie Julia's life coach and credited with setting Stefanie on this path to becoming a coach herself. 

Profitable Passion Purpose - Facebook Page for P3, Stefanie's private group for online fitness coaches. You can connect with her here if you aspire to be an online fitness coach. 

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