Hello Podfriend!

Winter is upon us in the north and it’s Thanksgiving weekend in the USA.

How is life treating you these days?

Things are topsy turvy in the aftermath of VP Kamala Harris’s loss to president-elect Donald Trump. Trying to digest this reality comes on the back of an important family visit to Johannesburg, one which had me thinking that I may want to return to South Africa. I mean, we have our problems too, but there’s no denying how my soul comes alive as soon as I land. In between being a responsible daughter and sister, I also had a chance to run like a wild woman in the streets. Do I look joyous or what? 👇🏾

Alright my lovelies, time to get into the newsletter. If this edition was shared with you, you can receive your own future editions by subscribing.

Here’s what we’re doing in this edition:

-Studio Update

-US Election Aftermath

-Giving me Joy and Pause

Alright pod friends, let’s get to business!

STUDIO UPDATE

SERENA WILLIAMS MADE ME TACOS

Barbara Clark Ruiz is a multifaceted solopreneur known for her activewear designs and dog treat brand Lick You Silly. During the pandemic, her dog treat business rose in rankings on the Amazon platform and this opened opportunities for growth and naturally, challenges that come with a sudden need to scale.

Barbara shares her journey from childhood in Portsmouth, Virginia, to designing for global brands like Adidas and Fila, and collaborating with Venus Williams on her activewear brand Eleven by Venus - which is currently on a break. It was in fact during a conversation with Venus Williams that she decided to go for it and pursue the Lick You Silly venture.

Barbara works hard and plays hard. She also networks like a boss and takes care of her professional relationships. In our conversation, she also talks about personal experiences like meeting the Obamas, sharing a blanket with Star Wars creator, George Lucas in Oprah Winfrey's backyard and eating tacos with the Williams sisters.

ALSO THIS MONTH

HAIR IS ART

Naeemah LaFond is a celebrated editorial hairstylist who believes that her job is not just about styling hair but shaping the future of the beauty industry. Her journey from a court clerk to being a hand-picked collaborator for icons like Beyoncé and Amapiano singer Tyla, is a testament to her passion and dedication. She also talks about her Masterclass Texture on Set which is a game changer for newbies and veterans of the industry alike.

Naeemah recently became Global Ambassador of the global hair giant Olaplex. She says this partnership is aligned with her belief in the importance of science-backed products, particularly for textured hair, and her insights into the ongoing push for inclusivity in the industry. She shares compelling stories about overcoming challenges and underestimations, turning them into opportunities to mentor aspiring Black women hairstylists and create a supportive community in beauty and fashion campaigns. Join us for a conversation that promises not just inspiration but a vision for an inclusive and innovative future in hair care.

Are you ready to be inspired?

ON MY MIND THIS MONTH

U.S. ELECTION AFTERMATH