12 Black Women Who Weren’t in Your History Books
These women changed the course of history.
Written by Andreia Wardlaw, founder of Mother Wit Blog.
These twelve brave women made important contributions to society in law, activism, education, and culture throughout the 1800s and 1900s, but they’re often left out of historical literature. From founding colleges to the starting the NAACP, their work changed the course of history. These famous black women in history left their mark and deserve every bit of recognition. Read on to hear their stories.
Lena Richard
“Mama Lena” as people called her, was the “Martha Stewart” of New Orleans—a trained chef, acclaimed cookbook author, restaurant and catering business owner, frozen food entrepreneur, TV host and cooking school teacher. With skillful élan, Richard artfully tore down racial and economic barriers in the heart of the Jim Crow South, improving the livelihoods of current and future African Americans in her community. An anthology of her recipes was collected to publish the New Orleans Cook Book—now regarded as the first Creole cookbook written by an African American.
Bessie Coleman
Coleman became the first black woman to earn a pilot’s license and the first black woman to stage a public flight in the United States. Known for performing flying tricks and parachuting stunts, she remains a pioneer for women in aviation.
Audre Lorde
This writer, poet, librarian and activist was a self-described “black, lesbian, mother, warrior and poet.” She dedicated both her life and her poetry to confronting and addressing injustices of racism, sexism, classism, and homophobia. She’s known for her poetry and memoirs such as, From a Land Where Other People Live, The Black Unicorn and A Burst of Light.
Harriet Jacobs
In 1813, Harriet Jacobs was born into slavery. Her owner sexually abused her for seven years before she ran away. She was forced to hide in a tiny crawlspace, where she lived with no light or ventilation for seven years. In 1842, she made her escape to Philadelphia, then relocated to Rochester, where she worked for the famous North Star abolitionist newspaper. She finally gained freedom when her friend arranged for her purchase. Later in her life, she turned her pain into passion by writing an autobiography titled Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. The book gave her celebrity as an author and is still in print today.
Charlotte E. Ray
Not only was Charlotte E. Ray the first female graduate from Howard University’s law department and the first woman admitted to the Washington DC Bar, but she was the first African American lawyer in America. She opened a law office in D.C.; however, racism prevented her from building a clientele big enough to keep her practice open. This forced her to return to New York City to teach in public schools.
Anna Julia Cooper
Anna Cooper was the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in history. She founded the Colored Women’s League of Washington and helped open the first YWCA chapter for Black Women. In 1924, she became the fourth Black person in the United States to receive a Ph.D. and the first to receive one from the University of Paris. She retired from education at age 95.
Mary Church Terrell
Mary Church Terrell’s foray into activism began in 1892 when her friend, Thomas Moss, was lynched in Memphis. She joined Ida B. Wells in the anti-lynching campaign and dedicated her life’s work to “lifting as we climb.” This became the motto of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW), which Terrell helped found. She served as president of NACW for five years, and in 1909, became one of the founding members of the NAACP.
Mary McLeod Bethune
After graduating from college, Bethune taught school but felt compelled to provide opportunities for African American girls. In 1904, with only $1.50, Bethune opened the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in Daytona, Florida. In 1923, the school merged with the Cookman Collegiate Institute and eventually become Bethune-Cookman College, which remains a popular historically black college today. In addition to her contributions to education, Bethune served as Special Advisor on Minority Affairs under the Roosevelt administration and founded the National Council for Negro Women. After her death, she became the first woman and the first African-American honored with a statue in a public park in Washington DC.
Jane Matilda Bolin
Jane Bolin was named a Wellesley scholar at Wellesley College before receiving her BA with honors in 1928. She then attended Yale Law School, where she became the first African American woman to graduate in 1931. A year later, she was admitted to the New York Bar and began working with her father and brother at their law firm in Poughkeepsie. In 1937, she was named assistant corporate counsel in NYC’s law department. She worked this job for two years before being appointed justice of the Domestic Relations Court of the City of New York (later named Family Court). This made her the first Black female judge in America, presiding for 40 years.
Hazel Dorothy Scott
Hazel Scott grew up in the heat of the Harlem Renaissance. She was a piano prodigy from age three and at the age of eight attended The Juilliard School of Music, even though the minimum age requirement was 16. Before she was out of her teens, she had performed at the 1939 World’s Fair and become a staple at New York City’s first integrated club, Café Society. At the age of 25, she was earning today’s equivalent of $1 million a year. She regularly challenged racial stereotypes and pay disparities and refused to play for segregated audiences. Hazel went on to become the first Black woman to host her own nationally-syndicated television show.
Cassandra Maxwell
Cassandra Maxwell was the first African American Woman admitted to the SC Bar. During the formative years of the Civil Rights Movement, Maxwell assisted Thurgood Marshall with the legal work of the NAACP. Her contributions as a strategist helped draft the case laws that would lead to the end of segregated facilities in the South. She was later appointed by President Nixon as a member of the Interim Board of Directors of the Student Loan Marketing Association.
Donyale Luna
At the age of 18, Luna, a six-foot-tall young woman, was spotted by photographer David McCabe. A year after being discovered, she moved to New York, where she landed on a cover of Harper’s Bazaar—but the painting whitewashed her race, making it difficult to tell if she was African American. In 1966, she made the cover of British Vogue, making history as the first Black cover model photographed for a Vogue franchise. Luna went on to have an international career, starring in multiple Andy Warhol films, The Rolling Stones’ Rock and Roll Circus, dozens of magazine spreads, and films across Europe.
Written by Andreia Wardlaw, founder of Mother Wit Blog. Mother Wit is a blog dedicated to documenting the contributions of African American women in history in an effort to change the narrative of American history that has silenced the contributions of Women of Color. Mother Wit promotes education, representation, and empowerment.
This post was originally published on December 27, 2018, and has since been updated.
MORE FROM THE BLOG
99 Black Women-Owned Brands and Entrepreneurs to Support Now and Always
These women are changing the game.
Over the past year, women started an average of 1,817 new businesses per day in the U.S., and Women of Color account for 89% (1,625) of those new businesses. In fact, according to the State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, Black women-owned businesses represented the highest rate of growth of any group in the number of firms between 2014 and 2019 as well as between 2018 and 2019.
When looking at specific minority groups over the last five years, growth in side-entrepreneurship is up 99% among Black women. They started an impressive 42% of net new women-owned businesses, which is three times their share of the female population (14%).
This study calls the women behind these rapidly-launching businesses “necessity entrepreneurs” because, due to higher unemployment rates, long-term unemployment, and vast gender and racial pay gaps, women of color start businesses out of the need to survive. And these Black female entrepreneurs are changing the game but they’re not the first.
In fact, they’re walking in the footsteps of many brave, risk-taking necessity entrepreneurs in history. In the 1850s, Clara Brown established a laundry business during the gold rush and used her money to invest in real estate developing properties that allowed black communities to live safely. Annie Turnbo Malone paved the way for Black female cosmetologists and created jobs for over 75,000 women worldwide with her beauty enterprises. Maggie Lena Walker was the first Black woman to charter a bank and help our people protect our coins. The list goes on and on.
Below we’re shining a spotlight on women whose businesses you can support and celebrate today and every day.
Health & Wellness
Lalah Delia, Founder of Vibrate Higher Daily
Lalah is an author, spiritual writer, and wellness educator who has been a force in the self-care space, encouraging and empowering us all to mindfully care for ourselves with her Vibrate Higher Daily platform.
Follow her on Instagram.
Buy Her Book: Vibrate Higher Daily: Live Your Power
Trinity Mouzon Wofford, Founder of Golde
Trinity was only 23 when she launched her wellness line, Golde and now it's stocked at Goop and Urban Outfitters and continues to fly off shelves. Her phenomenal success is why we celebrated her achievements as an honoree in the small business section of our CC100 list this year.
Follow her on Instagram.
Bea Dixon, CEO and Founder, The Honey Pot Company
After suffering from bacterial vaginosis for months, an ancestor gave Bea Dixon the ingredients to heal herself in a dream. She created the formula for an effective, clean feminine wash and it worked! She’s now sharing her revelation with the world via The Honey Pot Company—the first complete feminine care system, powered by herbs™.
Candace Reels, Founder, Female Collective
At just 26 years old, Candace Reels has created a movement. Born out of her passion for activism and intersectional feminism, the Female Collective is now a thriving digital community empowering women to come together, tell their stories, and bring awareness to the issues that matter to them most. Reels also launched a clothing line that features powerful phrases and messaging from the platform. We look up to Candace because she turned a personal project into an important space for the women who needed it most. It’s also why we honored her on our 2019 CC100 list so be sure to read the interview and support.
Naj Austin, Founder and CEO, Ethel’s Club
Named after her grandmother, Ethel Lucas—a matriarch figure in a tightknit community—Ethel’s Club continues her mission with a purpose-driven space for People of Color to heal and thrive through conversation, wellness, and creativity.
Shop their marketplace or become a member.
Jessica L., Founder, Hell Notes for Beauty
If you’re in need of guided meditation, are curious about crystals, or are seeking herbal and holistic wellness rituals, then Hell Notes for Beauty is your new go-to. Jessica’s platform is the premier metaphysical destination for the strong-willed, inspired, and determined soul. “I am dedicated to the solitary practitioner seeking to establish spiritual independence, self-care, and recognition of ancestral knowledge.”
Jaimee Ratliff, Founder, Yoga With Jaimee
The Atlanta-based certified yoga teacher is a passionate advocate of the ancient discipline and credits the practice for getting her through life’s challenges. While she believes wholeheartedly that yoga should be accessible to everyone, the community at large has lacked diversity and her hope is to provide an inclusive platform both on a local and global scale.
Jordan James and Shaniece Vincent, Co-Founders, Goddess Culture Podcast and Wellness Retreats
Jordan and Shaniece aim to empower and encourage their listeners to embrace their inner Goddess through a dialogue that inspires self-love, self-care, and self-actualization.
Follow them on Instagram.
Dr. Jerrica Dodd, CEO, and Founder, Your Pharmacy Advocate
Dr. Jerrica Dodd launched Your Pharmacy Advocate with a mission to add a human touch to pharmaceutical care and improve lives through patient engagement, provider partnerships, and education.
Learn more about their pharmacy consulting.
Nadine Joseph, Founder, Peak and Valley
From pollution to phone notifications, the fast-paced world is around us isn’t exactly relaxing and can cause potential health risks. So Nadine Joseph took healing herself (and others) into her own hands with Peak and Valley—plant-based elixirs to enhance your beauty, mood, and mind.
Rashia Bell and Iva Bravic Millereau, Co-Founders, RE.VITYL
After meeting at a wedding reception in Bali, 2010, Rashia and Iva discovered their mutual love for natural, quality products with a sustainable foundation. So they partnered up to launch a wellness startup, RE.VITYL—products infused with elemental energy by Biocrystal® to promote relaxation and tranquility. “We truly believe in the re.laxing and re.storative powers of native plants and stones and their ability to bring about true wellness, harness positive energy, and enhance your quality of life.”
Veladya Chapman, Founder, Earth Mama Medicine
While working as a professional actress, Veladya attended the Institute for Transformational Nutrition to become a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and she now helps heal people from all over the world through her books, educational YouTube videos, personalized wellness plans, and public speaking.
Buy her products and services.
Cheryl Sutherland, Founder, PleaseNotes and, res-o-nate strategies
Taking a risk, Cheryl Sutherland left her job and focused completely on building her self-confidence and nurturing her inner gifts through journaling, reading, and working with affirmations. This personal growth led to her company, PleaseNotes focused on providing personal growth tools and leadership programs.
Follow her on Instagram.
Charlesha "Charli" Harris, Founder, ChasingTransformation
After struggling with insecurities that stemmed from poor health, and lifestyle choices, Charlesha Harris turned “potential poison into passion to educate, lead, and motivate others to be the best versions of themselves” with her ChansingTransformation health and fitness platform.
MORE HEALTH & WELLNESS FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Jamie Clarke, Founder, Soul Paradigm
What They Do: Reiki, lifestyle and healing coaching, tarot, self-care packages, and more.
Website: SoulParadigm.com
Instagram: @thesoulparadigm
Business Name: VGN AF—Wellness Redefined.
What They Do: Wellness is a journey, not a destination. VGN AF was launched to help you get to your best version of wellness and health with the best quality sustainably-sourced products to provide visible results over time. Their platform addresses healthy foods, vegan recipes, immunity, weight loss, healthy skin and hair rituals, gut health, mental clarity, healing, stress release, and increased energy.
Website: shopvgnaf.com
Instagram: @vgn_af
Business Name: Dr. Caroline Robinson, Founder, Tone Dermatology
What They Do: Board-certified dermatologist and Chicago native, Dr. Caroline Robinson specialize in general, medical, and surgical dermatology.
Website: tonedermatology.com
Instagram: @tonedermatology
Business Name: Magnolia Yoga Studio
What They Do: A community-based space to practice and strengthen the mind-body connection through hot yoga and meditation.
Website: magnoliayogastudio.com
Instagram: @magnoliayogastudio
Business Name: Mia Cola, Founder, Fancy U Fitness
What They Do: Workouts you can do to keep in shape at home, outside, or wherever you are in the world.
Website: Fancyu.net
Instagram: @fancyufitness
Business Name: Sunny Brooks, CEO, and Co-Founder, TJ Brooks, Spiritual Shop
What They Do: Sunny Brooks is a certified Reiki Master Teacher, Crystal Healer, Herbalist, and Aromatherapist. TJ is a healer, teacher, and artist. She creates natural, spiritual, and metaphysical art. Since 2017, they have been spreading joy, peace, love, and positivity with their products and education to create a movement that inspires a lifestyle filled with soulful vibes.
Website: soulfulvibesco.com
Instagram: @soulfulvibesco
Business Name: Alicia Richmond, Founder, A-Rich Nutrition
What They Do: After she was diagnosed with scoliosis, Richmond started her own research into supplements that helped ease her symptoms and weren’t filled with chemicals, fillers, or harmful ingredients. And so, A-Rich Nutrition was born offering a wide range of quality-assured food supplements from trusted suppliers from around the world.
Website: arichnutrition.com
Instagram: @arichnutrition
Business Name: Felicia La Tour, Founder, MindfulFee
What They Do: Renowned makeup artist, Felicia La Tour took the plunge a year ago to launch her own business, MindfulFee. Now it’s a thriving community of women who come together around the same mission, to live well, intentional lives while sharing the experience collectively. Be sure to check out her vibe box and order yourself one before they sell out, again!
Website: collectivelymindful.com
Instagram: @mindfulfee
Business Name: Sweet Mason
What They Do: From soft gels to bath salts and even candles, Sweet Mason is a mecca for high-quality CBD-infused products for every concern on your path to health and wellness.
Website: sweetmason.co
Instagram: @shopsweetmason
Business Name: Curls Vitamins
What They Do: A vitamin-infused haircare line to boost the strength and vitality of your hair.
Website: curlsvitamins.com
Instagram: @curlsvitamins
Business Name: Victoria McAbee and Jasmine Lee, Co-Founders, Whimsy Official
What They Do: A modern wellness and beauty atelier focused on plant alchemy and conscious luxury.
Website: whimsyofficial.com
Instagram: @officialwhimsy
Food & Beverage
Wendy Lopez and Jessica Jones, Co-Founders of Food Heaven
Dietitians Wendy and Jessica are on a mission to make health and wellness more inclusive, diverse, and accessible. To help fill the void for healthy recipes made with ingredients that are both accessible and affordable, Lopez and Jones founded Food Heaven in 2011.
Follow them on Instagram.
Buy their book: 28-Day Plant-Powered Health Reboot: Reset Your Body, Lose Weight, Gain Energy & Feel Great
Mignon Francois, CEO and Founder, The Cupcake Collection
Since planting its roots in 2008, Mignon Francois’ business savvy has earned her the titles of “Woman of Legend and Merit” by Tennessee State University, “Emerging Business Leader of the Year” and Black Enterprise Magazine “Family Business of the Year Award”. And it’s easy to see why. Her handmade cupcakes draw lines around the block for their iconic flavor unlike you’ve ever tasted before. She has bakeries in both Nashville and New Orleans but The Cupcake Collection also ships nationwide. Ordering is just a click away! Just shop online and choose shipping as your fulfillment option at checkout.
Idil Farah, Founder, IdilsWorld
A practicing nutritionist for over 10 years, Idil Farah draws on the “medicine as food” philosophy and traditional holistic practices to promote overall wellness. She aims to make healthy eating fun and enjoyable and doesn’t believe it has to be expensive, time-consuming, or a struggle.
Shop her health programs and packages.
MORE FOOD & BEVERAGE FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Nayana Ferguson, Owner, Anteel Tequila
What They Do: A premium tequila brand based in Detroit that produces the world's only coconut lime blanco tequila as well as a blanco and reposado expression.
Website: AnteelTequila.com
Instagram: @anteeltequilas
Business Name: Hawa Hassan, Founder, Basbaas
What They Do: Somali hot sauces, handmade in small batches, bottled, and sourced in the Hudson Valley.
Website: BasbaasSauce.com
Instagram: @basbaassauce
Business Name: Denise Woodard, Founder and CEO, Partake Foods
What They Do: Gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO cookies free from the top eight allergens and made using clean ingredients. Flavors range from chocolate chip and cookie butter to birthday cake.
Website: partakefoods.com
Instagram: @partakefoods
Business Name: Robin and Andréa McBride, Co-Founders, McBride Sisters Collection
What They Do: Founded by sisters Robin and Andréa, McBride Sisters Collection is the largest Black-owned wine company in America.
Website: mcbridesisters.com
Instagram: @mcbridesisters
Business Name: Jenné Claiborne, Founder, Sweet Potato Soul
What They Do: Vegan chef, blogger, YouTuber, and author of "Sweet Potato Soul: 100 Easy Vegan Recipes for the Southern Flavors of Smoke, Sugar, Spice, and Soul."
Website: SweetPotatoSoul.com
Instagram: @sweetpotatosoul
Business Name: Milan Durham, Owner, Cultured Kombucha
What They Do: A kombucha company brewed out of Washington D.C. that believes all communities should have access to and knowledge of internal health and wellness.
Website: TheCulturedKombucha.com
Instagram: @theculturedkombucha
Tonya “The Millennial Money Expert” Rapley’s lightbulb moment for launching My Fab Finance was sparked by a personal need. As a millennial living in New York City and working for a non-profit, Rapley wanted to break the cycle of living from paycheck to paycheck but couldn’t find a financial resource tailored to millennials—so she created one.
Buy her book: The Money Manual
Tiffany Aliche, Founder, The Budgetnista
As an award-winning teacher of financial education, Tiffany Aliche has quickly become one of America’s most regarded personal finance experts. Her mission? To empower women and provide them with access to the tools and resources needed to create a better life for themselves and their families.
Her financial movement has helped over 800, 000 women worldwide collectively save more than $100 million, and pay off over $75 million in debt, purchase homes and transform the way they think about their finances.
Book her for financial advice, workshops, or speaking opps.
Sharon Beason, Founder, Womeneur
Sharon Beason helps emerging and early-stage female entrepreneurs get the clarity, resources, and actionable steps you need to plan, create, launch, sustain, and grow their business successfully and profitably. So if you’re ready to stop wasting time and start seeing results, join the Womaneur Collective today.
Beauty
Shontay Lundy, Founder of Black Girl Sunscreen
Shontay is here to remind us that black people need sunscreen too—and we’re here for it. From later diagnoses, black people have lower survival rates for skin cancer. Shontay has designed the solution.
Follow her on Instagram.
Cashmere Nicole, Founder of Beauty Bakerie Makeup
Cashmere Nicole was a single parent, struggling to make ends meet before she founded the hugely successful, Beauty Bakerie. In 2001, she was a teen mom putting herself through college, and after graduating, she became a nurse to support her daughter, Jasmyn. While raising her daughter and working as a nurse, Nicole would dedicate the second half of her day to developing her makeup business. Now she is inspiring women everywhere with her incredible story and game-changing products.
Follow her on Instagram.
Victoria Fazio, CEO and Founder of Propa Beauty
Victoria took the leap from her corporate career to create Propa Beauty in a bid to energize and encourage women to be confident leaders in their own fields. “Makeup is powerful and it’s about time it’s marketed as an arsenal which goes beyond just getting cute. I want women to look their best on the outside, but also to feel their best on the inside.”
Melissa Butler, Founder of The Lip Bar
Her career began in the corporate world, but after she became frustrated with the lack of diversity and excessive chemicals, Melissa Butler decided to launch her own and disrupt modern-day beauty standards in the process. Even after being faced with doubters during her appearance on ABC’s Shark Tank (and ultimately rejected) Butler went onto create The Lip Bar because everyone deserves to have their own perfect nude lipstick—period! Now she is a huge success and her massive community agree.
KJ Miller and Amanda Johnson, Co-Founders, Mented Cosmetics
The idea for Mented Cosmetics happened like most great business ideas: over a glass of pinot! Friends, KJ Miller and Amanda Johnson were sipping and discussing why it was so hard to find the perfect nude lipstick. And the idea for starting their own was born. “We believe every woman should be able to find herself in the world of beauty, no matter her skin tone. We know you'll love being put first because when it comes to beauty, no one deserves to be an afterthought.”
CEO, Sheneil Monique and Co-Founder, Nicolette Camille, Base Butter
Sheneil and Nicolette’s mission was simple: to create easy skincare for oily and combination skin types while helping women feel comfortable in their skin. And they achieved it. They’re easy-to-use products yield results through simple formulas that safely improve the overall health of the skin for immediate protection and long-term results.
Tuanieha Twanna, Founder, Sonshine Bath
After Tuanieha’s son, Tristan James (who she refers to as her “Sonshine”) was born, she started making his soaps and body butter at home so she could guarantee they were safe for his skin. A year later, she launched the brand to not only help secure Tristan's future but also provide other small businesses like hers by donating a portion of the business profits to other small businesses in the form of microloans through kiva.org.
Sharon Chuter, Founder, UOMA Beauty
UOMA Beauty was founded by Nigerian born, LA, and London-based former beauty executive, Sharon Chuter to redefine the rules of inclusivity and diversity. Listed by WWD one of the 50 most forward-thinking executives shaping the future of the beauty industry, she believes that “beauty starts the moment you decide to be yourself. We exist to re-write the rules of inclusivity and diversity to create a world of beauty that truly is for all of us.”
Lisa Price, Founder, Carol’s Daughter
Lisa Price’s iconic brand started as a hobby in 1993 when she would put her own spin on recipes she found in a DIY book. From essential oil-based perfumes and body products, Price would whip up magical beauty concoctions in her kitchen. Now she has built an empire with Carol’s Daughter, is stocked in a host of major stores like Target and Ulta, and counts celebrities like Jada Pinkett Smith (one of the companies' earliest investors) Halle Berry, Mary J. Blige, and Dascha Polanco as fans.
Myleik Teele, Founder, CURLBOX
After she “went natural” more than 15 years ago, Myleik clearly remembers driving 20 miles to buy an expensive product that she read had “worked on everyone.” But after several times of using it, she found it didn’t work for her and it sat under her sink for years. So, she started curlBOX as a means to save you the drive and the money. “curlBOX gives women the opportunity to try several products for the price of one!” Now, that’s a mission we can get behind.
Kristen Noel Crawley, Founder, KNC Beauty
Inspired by lip masks she discovered on a trip to Tokyo, Kristen Noel Crawley set out to make her own, but this time she swapped artificial ingredients for collagen, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid. Since it’s launch, KNC Beauty has a sparked cult-following of beauty devotees who love the pink stretchy lip-shaped masks with major fans including Kim Kardashian, Luka Sabbat, and Emma Stone. The line has since expanded into star-shaped eye masks and lip balms. Read her interview as an honoree for CC100 in 2018.
Lesley Thornton, Founder, Klur Cosmetics
If you’re after clean, ethical, and inclusive beauty, KLUR is your answer. After giving personalized treatments as an esthetician for nearly a decade, Lesley Thornton took her approach to skin health and turned it into a skincare line that prioritized minimalistic regimens to deliver multiple benefits and long-term results.
Nancy Twine, CEO and Founder, Briogeo
It was while she working as a Goldman Sachs finance executive that Nancy Twine realized she wasn’t living her passion. Inspired by her grandmother's beauty recipes and a natural chemist team, Twine eventually took the leap to launch her own natural hair care line, Briogeo.
Karen Young, Founder, Oui the People
It seems all good business ideas are Inspired by a need or in Karen’s case a frustration. When she couldn’t find the right shaver, Young created her own by raising the bar and changing the shaving experience for good. In 2014, she designed a product line of three razor styles and accessories, including a lavender-scented shave oil and an ingrown relief serum. Now, she’s inspired a movement.
MORE BEAUTY FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Jasmine Lewis, Founder and CEO, Vie Beauty
What They Do: A clean beauty and skincare line dedicated to providing exceptional products that give you a renewed sense of self-confidence.
Website: theviebeauty.com
Instagram: @viebeautyx
Business Name: Yewande Masi, Founder, Ornami Skincare
What They Do: Zero-toxin, zero-drama skincare that keeps it 100.
Website: ornamiskincare.com
Instagram: @ornamiskincare
Business Name: Brittney Ogike, Founder and CEO, BeautyBeez
What They Do: A modern beauty supply shop offering a curated collection of natural hair care, beauty, skincare, wigs, braiding hair, and extensions.
Website: beautybeez.com
Instagram: @beautybeezstore
Business Name: Rochelle Graham-Campbell, Co-Founder and CEO, Alikay Naturals
What They Do: Premium all-natural and organic hair care and bath and body products designed to moisturize dry hair and skin while promoting faster and longer hair growth.
Website: alikaynaturals.com
Instagram: @alikaynaturals
Business Name: Kenyata Gant, Founder and CEO, Pink Lipps Cosmetics
What They Do: Vegan and cruelty-free lip products (think: glosses, liquid lipsticks, lip balm, glow gloss, and more).
Website: pinklippscosmetics.com
Instagram: @pinklippscosmetics
Started on the ‘gram; now she’s selling out of clothes—to the likes of Kim Kardashian and Karrueche. Now, Briana has grown a huge community online who have rallied around her innovative designs.
Follow her on Instagram.
Kashmir Thompson, Founder of KashmirVIII
You might recognize some of Kashmir’s art from the iconic HBO series Insecure. Her products bring life and color to iconic black images.
Follow her on Instagram.
Tricia Hash, Founder, Tree Fairfax
Tree Fairfax is a handmade minimal leather goods line made by Tricia “Tree” Hash. The self-taught creative based in Roanoke, Virginia wanted to create leather goods that are long-lasting with timeless designs that will “hopefully change how you move about the world.”
Aliya Wanek, Founder, Aliya Wanek
Exploring the connection between one’s identity and style, Aliya Wanek creates comfortable, stylish clothing ethically and sustainably as an extension of the wearer’s individuality. If not sewing the garments herself, Aliya works with a production sewer and other local contractors in the Bay Area to produce and dye her garments, always taking into consideration ways to reduce the brand’s environmental impact.
Areeayl Goodwin, Founder, Beads Byaree
Designer, Areeayl Goodwin makes her whimsical dreams a reality with her handcrafted jewelry line. Born and raised in Philadelphia PA, she now resides in Brooklyn, NY and has a line of clothing to accompany her jewelry designs.
Katherine Theobalds, Founder, Zou Xou
Zou Xou was created and founded in New York City by Katherine Theobalds. While she went to fashion school with the intention of becoming a clothing designer, her love for unique shoe designs had her walking a different path. After a trip to Buenos Aires, she was inspired by the artistry of local Argentinian shoe design and went on to launch Zou Xou in 2015.
MORE FASHION FOUNDERS:
Business Name: OMA the Label
What They Do: OMA the label, founded in 2018 by New York-based fashion stylist Neumi Anekhe, creates pieces for the woman that is intentional about the choices she makes and wants to wear pieces that make her feel empowered and confident. In an effort to represent Women of Color, the brand is focused on challenging homogenous industry standards, while creating quality and affordable pieces for the everyday woman.
Website: omathelabel.com
Instagram: @omathelabel
Business Name: Fanm Djanm
What They Do: Fanm Djanm, which means "strong woman" in Haitian Kreyol, was founded in 2014 as a collection of eight head wraps, which Paola Mathè sold directly from her apartment on the weekends. Today, Fanm Djanm has transformed into a headwrap collection and lifestyle brand that creates sustainably, focuses on community and serves to both empower and inspire women to live boldly. The combination of carefully selected fabrics, hand sewn pieces, and cultural musings inspire women everywhere to wear a bold print, take command of a room, laugh a little too loud, and pursue their greatest aspirations.
Website: fanmdjanm.com
Instagram: @fanmdjanm
Business Name: Chari Cuthbert, Founder, BYCHARI
What They Do: Established in 2012, BYCHARI is a reflection of designer Chari Cuthbert's approach to life and style. Effortless, unique, and modern, each handmade piece is designed for women who appreciate simplicity but demand luxury. Handmade sustainably in Los Angeles, Cuthbert and her team remain committed to supporting local small businesses so that each BYCHARI piece can be worn with confidence.
Website: bychari.com
Instagram: @bychari
Business Name: Stephanie Thomas, Founder and CEO, Cur8able
What They Do: Stephanie Thomas uses fashion as a tool to challenge negative perceptions about people with disabilities (PWD) by providing disability fashion styling, content creation, and coaching/consulting services.
Website: cur8able.com
Instagram: @cur8able
Business Name: Nichole Lynel, Founder, Shop Nichole Lynel
What They Do: In 2019, Nichole Lynel launched her eponymous fashion brand, Shop Nichole Lynel. Her glamorous yet affordable Shop Nichole Lynel pieces, ranging in price from about $50 to $250, are coveted by “glamorous girls on the go.”
Website: shopnicholelynel.com
Instagram: @shopnicholelynel
Marriage is a journey. When Codie Elaine Oliver approached the docu-series, Black Love with fellow filmmaker and partner, Tommy she wanted to pull the curtain back on how a relationship blossoms and the daily realities of marriage. This is a warts and all film that shares the ups with the downs and highlights true love stories from some of our favorite black couples.
Bonnie Smith, Founder & CEO, Studio B Entertainment
Studio B is a diversity-driven, woman-owned brand experience agency that specializes in producing consumer, influencer, and retail customer experiences for women, by women. CEO and founder, Bonnie Smith is an industry pro with a 17+ year career in the marketing and media industry as a brand and agency marketer. She has partnered with brands such as Pampers, COVERGIRL, and more as well as top media brands including ESSENCE, PEOPLE en Español, and Entertainment Weekly magazine.
Lauren Atkins, Founder, NYC Webfest
As New York’s first web-series festival, NYC Web Fest has brought together a diverse group of people from around the world to showcase the best of the web. And they hope to turn the festival into the premier home for digital producers to showcase their talent, network with other artists, and learn from industry insiders.
Founded in 2012 by tech pioneer, Kathryn Finney, Digital Undivided aims to help high-potential black and Latinx female founders through the startup pipeline, from idea to innovation. They develop innovative programs and initiatives that catalyze economic growth in Black and Latinx communities to create a world where women own their work.
Learn more about Digital Undivided.
Camille Hearst, Co-Founder, Kit
Camille created Kit to develop a community to discover, discuss, and, deliver interesting products for activities like traveling, DJing, cooking, cycling, and more. In 2018, KIT was acquired by Patreon and Camille now serves as Patreon’s Head of Product and as a General Manager.
Evonya Easley, Founder, Styled by Love E App
Evonya helps busy professionals curate their wardrobes and personal style to be the best version of themselves from the boardroom to the bar all through her mobile app. She conducts virtual style consults, personally shops the outfits, and delivers the clothes to you, too.
Follow her on Instagram.
MORE STEM & TECH FOUNDERS
Business Name: Blex
What They Do: The first and only mobile app providing sex and relationship coaching for Black adults.
Website: blexapp.com
Instagram: @blex_app
Parenting
Cynthia Watkins, and Kathryn Burnett, Co-Founders, HarperIman Dolls
HarperIman Dolls was created in 2017 by mother-daughter duo, Cynthia Watkins, and Kathryn Burnett with one mission in mind: "to help reinforce how beautiful and strong our children are by providing them with positive affirmations of themselves that they can identify with," they told POPSUGAR. "We found that dolls of color are underrepresented. There aren't many choices, and the ones available do not accurately represent our different skin tones and hair textures. Our children are left playing with and trying to identify with dolls that look nothing like them. We wanted to change that."
Felicia Osbourne, Founder, PerfBaby
PerfBaby is an all-natural, organic, vegan skincare line for babies and children. Like many moms, Felicia Osbourne created the brand after having her son and realizing a lot of brands out there had toxins or chemicals. After doing some research, she got into the kitchen and made the first iteration of what is known today as PerfBaby, safe and natural products to help soften and moisturize delicate skin.
Ruth Martin-Gordon, FOunder and CEO, Coddle
When Ruth Martin-Gordon was preparing for her first child, she was given a lot of information on pregnancy but what she couldn’t find was what to expect after giving birth and how to care for herself during recovery. She wants to help other moms who felt “clueless” like she did how to take care of themselves post-birth by creating a community around shared struggles and empowering each other with information, awareness, and empathy.
Shop her post-partum collection.
Download her e-Book on C-section recovery.
MORE PARENTING FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Brooklyn Lighthouse
What They Do: When Zaneesha couldn't find apparel for her two little boys that were full of brights colors, besides gray, dull gray, bright gray, and black, she decided to do something about it. By combining her passion for shopping and fashion visual merchandising, she began reselling clothing for children on social media. By 2013, at the peak of Instagram, Zaneesha began to build what would become Brooklyn Lighthouse. By staying true to her core audience of Boy Moms, Zaneesha has built Brooklyn Lighthouse into a on trend children's apparel shop. The main goal of Brooklyn Lighthouse is to provide parents with a wide range of cool clothes for their children at affordable prices. As the brand continues to grow, the products practice inclusivity with unisex options.
Website: breukelynthreads.com
Instagram: @brooklynlighthouse
Business Name: Lucy Lue Organics
What They Do: Lucy Lue Organics has one goal, and that is to grow a successful and purposeful business built on love, happiness and family: It's at the heart of every thing the company does. By offering a sustainably and ethically-produced collection of modern organic baby clothes with fabrics that are environmentally friendly from seed to seam and beautifully, minimally designed, Lucy Lue Organics proudly presents the perfect blend of style and comfort that is not harmful to Mother Nature or your baby's sensitive skin.
Website: lucylueorganics.com
Instagram: @lucylueorganics
Services
Karen Okonkwo, Founder, TONL
Representation is at the core of Karen Okonkwo’s work. She launched TONL to provide stock photography that featured images of diverse people and their stories around the world. This powerful combination of photography and storytelling can help humanize and hopefully diminish the stereotypes and prejudice against black and brown people, especially. They are committed to showcasing the ethnic backgrounds of everyday people. And the Nigerian-American social entrepreneur believes anyone can do this. “If you don’t see what you want—anyone who has a skill set, be that change,” she told us in her CC100 interview. “Start your own Facebook group or start your own meetup, or agree to mentor one person, that’s how we create that cascade of people. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help, either. That knowledge is there for you to take."
Ryan Norville, Founder, Oat Cinnamon
A native New Yorker, Ryan Norville found herself in the floral industry by way of graphic design and photography. Now she’s taken her inspired designs from the screen into real-life crafting beautiful floral designs. She works with a small team of talented designers and freelancers to offer services in New York, Los Angeles, and beyond.
Shop her floral designs.
MORE SERVICE FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Her Market
What They Do: Indie brands are taking the world by storm providing not only a different buying experience but more clean, ethical products for consumers that are conscious about what they’re putting in and on their bodies. These brands have the freedom to do business on their own terms however, it can also be a little more challenging whether it’s with finances, branding or manufacturing. Where there was once a void, Her Market offers a platform and resources for indie brands to be discovered and thrive. From curated, in-person experiences connecting them to the marketplace to educational programming, Her Market vows to shine a light on her and her brand.
Website: thisishermarket.com
Instagram: @thisishermarket
Business Name: The Black-Owned Market
What They Do: What started as pop-up market to gather Black-Owned brands in New York has grown into a shopping destination for people to interact and shop with Black business owners. Generating over six figures for Black business owners within just a year of existing, it was evident that the BOM needed to exist. From detailed curation, unmatched design, and connections that last a lifetime allow us to introduce you to your new favorite can’t live without products!
Website: ourbom.com
Instagram: @ourbomdotcom
Business Name: Favornirs
What They Do: Favornirs is an online full-service gifting business that specializes in perfecting the art of giving through deep reflection. The goal is to provide functional and fun gifts while providing a facile and flawless gifting experience for all. Gifts help memorialize special moments and times in our lives, so by using the art of gifting to trigger deep reflection through the creation of offerings, the brand is dedicated to the achieving that moment of joy & true reflection. Favornirs handle sourcing valuable, yet beautifully packaged products, logistics, crinkle paper and the perfect bows, while you sit back, relax and focus on your craft. By operating virtually, Favornirs serves a wide range of clients.
Website: favornirs.com
Instagram: @favornirs_
Non-Profit
LaRayia Gaston, Founder, Lunch on Me
This Los Angeles-based nonprofit is dedicated to ending starvation while providing opportunities to enrich the mind, body, and spirit of LA's homeless community. LOM Brings nutritious and organic meals to skid row six days a week, every week and now reaches 10,000 people a month. They redistribute organic food that would otherwise be wasted in order to create delicious and quality meals. And their initiative goes beyond food to include yoga classes, community parties, and healing gatherings for women.
Find out ways to help or donate.
Jewel Gould, Founder, Balanced Women
The non-profit, Balanced Women curates spaces and initiatives for women who wear various “hats” while encouraging them to lead wholesome and purpose-fueled lives. Their recent initiative, Sister-Sister assists the community with essentials, along with the tools and resources for further education.
MORE NON-PROFIT FOUNDERS:
Business Name: Olympia Auset, Founder, SÜPRMARKT
What They Do: A non-profit organization aimed at making fresh food easy and affordable for the people living in low-income communities in South Los Angeles, a community that has 1.3 million residents but only 60 grocery stores.
Website: SÜPRMARKT.la
Instagram: @supr.mrkt
Business Name: Evelynn Escobar-Thomas, Founder, Hike Clerb
What They Do: An L.A.-based intersectional womxn’s hike club and 501c(3) that’s dedicated to equipping womxn of color with the tools, resources, and experiences they need to collectively heal in nature from Los Angeles and beyond.
Website: hikeclerb.com
Instagram: @hikeclerb
On a journey of self-discovery, Sydney Noble created The Noble Brand Candle Co. in 2016. “Not only did I understand that I am royal, but also that all of those around me are royal too!”
Shop her candles and home accessories.
Brittiny Terry, Founder & Chief Interior Stylist, Effortless Composition
Brittiny had an obsession with interiors, fashion, and décor since she was very young so after a move from the fast-paced San Francisco life to Los Angeles, she decided to explore her passion. Effortless Composition is all about providing elevated home décor that is rich in aesthetic and doesn’t skip out on artisan quality. She also offers personalized styling sessions so you can learn how to decorate with her stunning pieces.
Chantal Bradley, Founder, Modish Décor Pillows
Chantal Bradley started Modish Décor Pillows in 2015 and has since had them featured in West Elm stores across the country and on television. Her pillows help you achieve that modern effortless look in any living or workspace.
MORE HOME DECOR FOUNDERS:
Business Name: House of 40
What They Do: At House of 40, the mission is to provide the healthiest best scented performing candles that are handmade in New York with only the highest quality ingredients, finished in a beautiful box gift wrapped black and white ribbon for your pleasure. These energizing candles are meant to light up the corner of your space, while you show compassion, love, and light to others every day
Website: houseof40.com
Instagram: @houseof40ny
Business Name: The Coy Collection
What They Do: The Coy Collection offers a variety of ceramic wares that make you feel good, connecting functional artwork to self-love and care. A lil reminder that your body and home are worthy of smiles, love, and warmth.
Website: thecoycollection.com
Instagram: @thecoycollection
Business Name: Harlem Candle Co.
What They Do: Founded in 2014 by travel and lifestyle expert Teri Johnson, the Harlem Candle Company is the manifestation of her love affair with fragrance, jazz, and Harlem. Each candle is specially handcrafted using a soy vegetable wax blend, infused with one of a kind fragrance oils, and tells a story while taking you on an olfactory journey. The subtle scents and soft glow from Harlem candles instantly enhance your space while creating a sense of comfort and luxury.
Website: harlemcandlecompany.com
Instagram: @harlemcandlecompany
Business Name: Awkward Auntie
What They Do: What initially started as a place for Awkward Auntie to share her thoughts and experiences as an auntie (through blood AND love) turned into a different kind of creative outlet. In the second half of 2018, Awkward Auntie began using cement as my medium to create fun planters and candles. Turns out if she’s now not creating something with her hands, she’s not happy. Since then, she’s been making candles, planters, soap dishes, trays, and more!
Website: awkwardauntie.com
Instagram: @awkwardauntie
Business Name: UNWRP
What They Do: UNWRP was founded in 2017 by Ashley L. Fouyolle, a multidisciplinary designer, who started the company in a small bedroom of her Brooklyn apartment. Her love for art, fashion, vibrant colors, unique patterns, and the gifting experience naturally led her into the world of luxury gift wrap where all her favorite things came together. Today, the brand is one of the most popular, Instagram-worthy, luxury gift wrapping companies having been featured in Forbes, Essence, Refinery29, TeenVogue, People, Apartment Therapy and more!
Website: unwrp.com
Instagram: @unwrp
Business Name: Effie's Paper
What They Do: Effie’s Paper believes that from the door to her desk, a woman should be surrounded by pretty things that make her heart leap! The brand’s products are a unique mix of casual elegance, motivation and social conversation that make using them fun and engaging. Although named after Kalyn’s grandmother, Effie’s Paper is not your grandmother’s lifestyle brand!
Website: effiespaper.com
Instagram: @effiespaper
Business Name: Stephanie Summerson Hall, Founder, Estelle Colored Glass
What They Do: A luxury brand of hand-blown colored glass cake stands and stemware in a mix of jewel tones and soft pastels made by glass artisans in Poland at a glass-making company with a rich 100-plus-year-old history.
Website: estellecoloredglass.com
Instagram: @estellecoloredglass
Experiential
Taylar Colyar, Founder, Sip Shop Eat
Dissatisfied with her experience as a vendor in New York City, Taylar Colyar decided to launch her own event specifically catering to the entrepreneurs behind the brands. Sip Shop Eat launched in April 2017 as a curated marketplace and it’s quickly grown to three major cities. It is now a community-based platform for brands big and small to connect, share, promote, and network with like-minded entrepreneurs.
Check out their virtual pop-up.
This list is just the beginning and we will continue to update it with more Black female-owned brands and entrepreneurs over time. Please let us know of brands you think should be included here in the comments below.
This post was originally published on February 10, 2019, and has since been updated.
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Classifieds: FILA, Digital Brand Architects, and Dear Media Are Hiring!
Now hiring: Parker Clay, Dear Media, and FILA are looking for candidates like you!
Photo: Colorjoy Stock Photography
Now hiring: Parker Clay, Dear Media, FILA, and more are looking for candidates like you!
FEATURED JOBS
Marketing Director, Parker Clay- Remote
Social Media & Community Coordinator, Parker Clay- Remote
Graphic Designer & Content Producer, Parker Clay- Remote
Director, Brand Partnerships, Digital Brand Architects- Los Angeles, CA or New York, NY
Publicist, Golden Word- Richmond, VA or Remote
Sr. Publicist, Golden Word- Richmond, VA or Remote
Project Manager (Contract), Joy Creative Shop- Dallas, TX or Remote
Influencer Coordinator, IHPR- Los Angeles, CA
PR Associate, Creative Label- Phoenix, AZ or Remote
Campaign Coordinator, Sales & Brand Partnerships, Dear Media- Austin, TX
Graphic Designer, Dear Media- Austin, TX or Los Angeles, CA
Video Editor, Dear Media- Austin, TX or Los Angeles, CA
LOS ANGELES
Finance Coordinator, Digital Brand Architects
Licensing Coordinator, Digital Brand Products
Account Manager, PR, Blended Strategy Group
Executive Assistant, AETHER
Sr. Marketing Manager, BOXFOX
Manager, Brand & Celebrity Influencer Marketing Partnerships, Blended Strategy Group
NEW YORK CITY
Digital Marketing Coordinator, Tini Lux
Social Media Manager, FILA
Talent Associate, Mint House
Business Reporter, New York Post
Product Content Strategist, Compass
REMOTE
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Copywriter, Amy Porterfield
Social Media Intern, Tini Lux
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Marketing Manager, Hampton Water Rosé
Executive/Personal Assistant, Stacey Boehman Coaching
Meet Our Latest Clean Food Crush
A love-at-first-bite kind of romance that we can definitely see evolving into a (healthy) long-term relationship.
The COVID-19 crisis has forced many of us to adapt to a WFH lifestyle. While I’m sincerely grateful for a job that allows me the flexibility to work from home, this can be both a blessing and a curse come mealtime. Work week meal prep is a task all of its own, and even months into my routine, I still haven’t quite figured out the proper WFH lunch / dinner routine. No matter how much I meal prep or plan the menu ahead of time, sometimes, my cravings are off-menu. Cue my latest obsession: Daily Harvest, a collection of over 80 recipes including smoothies, soups, oats, lattes and more, built from fruits and vegetables and delivered straight to your door – that also happens to be incredibly delicious.
As someone who lives a primarily plant-based lifestyle, Daily Harvest has been a total lifesaver. On days where a midday or evening meal would typically involve a spoonful of peanut butter or spending money on unnecessary (and unhealthy) takeout, Daily Harvest has saved the day with its nourishing, chef-crafted food. Aside from convenience, Daily Harvest boasts numerous other reasons that have courted me into making it my latest clean food crush – a love-at-first-bite kind of romance that I can definitely see evolving into a (healthy) long-term relationship.
“A love-at-first-bite kind of romance that I can definitely see evolving into a (healthy) long-term relationship.”
The longer we embrace the WFH life, the more we learn to celebrate the small wins –whether you put on real pants, made your bed, went outside today or made time for a good breakfast – recognizing these small wins is what we’re am all about these days. Daily Harvest can be that small win – one good choice you can make for yourself, that makes you feel good. Read on for all the ways that Daily Harvest became the small win I could not only count on, but actually look forward to.
Photo: Courtesy of Daily Harvest
Win #1: Healthy, Clean – and Sustainable
Okay – that’s technically three wins. Daily Harvest chefs and nutritionists craft recipes that are both delicious and free of refined sugars, gluten, fillers, preservatives or artificial anything. Every recipe is built on organic fruits and vegetables and crafted into delicious food that is actually good for you. The company invests their resources into reducing food waste, prioritizing organic farming practices, and going the extra mile for 100% compostable + recyclable packaging made from plant-based, renewable fiber that break down naturally instead of sitting in a landfill for thousands of years.
Daily Harvest freezes its ingredients at peak ripeness to lock in nutrition and taste. For example, cauliflower retains 50% more antioxidants when frozen the day of harvest versus refrigerated options three days after harvest, and berries frozen the day of harvest retain 200% more vitamin c than fresh berries just three days after harvest.
Win #2: Convenient, One Step Prep
Whether you're juggling way more than you planned, tired of cooking or just need to take the night off — Daily Harvest is delivered straight to your door and ready in minutes for when you need it most, so you can have your time back for the things you need it for the most.
Everything takes only one step to prep. Just blend, soak or heat according to the instructions, and enjoy. Little prep, no mess! They’re so quick that my coworkers (incorrectly) assumed I hit the pause button in the middle of my work day to prepare myself an impressive lunch.
Their latest launch, Mylk is a non-dairy milk made with almonds, pink sea salt and sometimes vanilla bean. It comes in super convenient frozen single serving wedges (each order makes 8, 8-ounce servings). Choose how much you want to make and it can be used with other Daily Harvest food like Smoothies, Lattes, Oat and Chia Bowls. Or, if you’re like me and have ever gone to make your morning coffee only to realize you didn't have any milk or creamer, Mylk is the ultimate one size fits all solution: convenient. It’s always on hand when you need it and ready in seconds, so no more last-minute sprints to the grocery store!
Win #3: Incredibly Delicious
One of my favorite parts about Daily Harvest is the assortment of offerings for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and every snack in between (over 80 recipes, to be exact). I spent a week weaving different dishes into my existing routine. Some of my standout favorites are the Vanilla Bean + Apple Chia Bowl (tip: think breakfast, and beyond – this also makes for a great dessert), the Butternut Squash + Kale Shakshuka Harvest Bowl for those packed mornings where lunch feels far away, Tomatillo + Pepper Flatbread for a quick and healthy dinner, and Espresso Bean + Tahini Bites for a fun mid-meal snack (or an after dinner digestif).
Not only did Daily Harvest make me happier, healthier, and more productive during my workweek, it proved to me that nourishing and convenient food can taste pretty incredible too.
Get $25 off your first box of Daily Harvest with code CREATECULTIVATE
Classifieds: BOXFOX, Alo Yoga, and Daily Harvest Are Hiring!
Ready for a job change? Peep these new gigs
Photo: Colorjoy Stock Photography
Ready for a job change? Peep these new gigs
FEATURED JOBS
Sr. Marketing Manager, BOXFOX- Los Angeles, CA
Manager, Brand & Celebrity Influencer Marketing Partnerships, Blended Strategy Group- Los Angeles, CA
PR Associate, Creative Label- Phoenix, AZ or Remote
Thought Leadership Manager, The Brand Guild- Washington, D.C. or New York, NY
Digital Marketing Coordinator, The Brand Guild- Washington, D.C.
Social Media Manager, Create & Cultivate- Los Angeles, CA or New York, NY
LOS ANGELES
Influencer Coordinator, IHPR
Social Media Manager, Alo Yoga
Account Executive, Sunday Riley
Social Media Specialist, Byte
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Operations Manager, DoorDash
NEW YORK CITY
Marketing & Social Media Manager, Bocce’s Bakery
Partnerships Manager, Daily Harvest
Marketing Coordinator, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Ecommerce Coordinator, Moroccanoil
Creative Content Strategy Manager, Shutterstock
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Here's the #1 Way You Can Be a More Inclusive Leader
Simple yet impactful.
Photo: Ivan Samkov from Pexels
“Take a seat at the back, please,” my brand manager told me. “We want to ensure all the leaders have a seat at the table,” he said, pointing to the very back of the room, a corner where there were a few folding tables and chairs.
I had arrived early that morning to set up the room for our annual brand plan presentation. I ensured the technology worked; that we had enough printed copies; that there were enough samples for our new launch to test and try. In fact, I had also worked tirelessly on the presentation when he had decided to take the week off leading up to the brand plan presentation with the leadership team. And while I was invited to the meeting to do all of the set-up, I wasn’t actually given a seat at the table.
I sat in the back at the folding table and in a folding chair, silently fuming. I felt like a child who had been instructed at Thanksgiving dinner to sit at the kids’ folding table in the corner. In the end, there was plenty of room at the “adults”-only table as I watched from the very back.
That afternoon the president of the division walked by me in the hallway. He had attended the brand plan presentation earlier that morning. He stopped as he saw me approaching him.
“Nice work,” he had said, smiling. “Next time, you should sit at the table,” he had suggested.
“Yes, thank you,” I had smiled back, clenching my teeth at his friendly suggestion.
Maybe he should have told my boss that.
From Korn Ferry and Catalyst to Harvard Business Review and Deloitte, there have been countless studies on the key traits of inclusive leaders. But what really makes an inclusive leader? It’s the elusive question we all seem to be trying to answer as organizations continue to scramble to figure out how to create inclusive workplaces.
Inclusive leadership is the foundation upon which great company cultures are built. When people feel they are included and belong, they are able to be the best version of themselves at work and are able to contribute all of their ideas freely and openly. They are able to make a significant impact for the company and for themselves.
Deloitte’s model highlights six signature traits of inclusive leaders, which include commitment, courage, cognizance of bias, curiosity, cultural intelligence, and collaboration. The model summarizes the detail of these traits and their importance in being an inclusive leader. And rather than only focusing on key traits, we need to focus on clear actions that individuals can take to be more inclusive leaders in the workplace. We need to move from the academic and theoretical discussions of inclusive leadership to the practical applications, where our teams see our inclusive behaviors in action.
What’s the number one way you can be an inclusive leader?
Start by giving individuals a seat at the table.
In the case of my former boss, giving me a seat at the table was a clear action he could have taken. The bigger question is: why don’t leaders want to give people a seat at the table? When leaders are insecure and lack confidence. When leaders see people working for them, and not with them. When leaders don’t want their team to receive praise, and only want the credit and spotlight for themselves. This behavior reflects someone who has a style the opposite of servant leadership.
These leaders derive authority simply from the fact that they are the boss and they are in control and they can command, as opposed to empowering and uplifting their teams and the people they work with.
In today’s world of remote working, there’s no reason to not extend an invite and include someone at the virtual table. No longer are we having to cram into a small conference room, drag in chairs, or offer someone a seat on the radiator. Start by checking your calendar tomorrow and ask yourself who is invited to certain meetings and who is not. Have they helped prepare materials for what’s being discussed? Are they a key stakeholder for the topic being discussed? Do they have a stake in the outcome of the meeting? So why aren’t they being included?
Once you give people a seat at the table, ensure you focus on the following:
1. Allow the space for all voices to be heard.
Invite everyone to speak and contribute, even if they have an opposing viewpoint. And a perspective you might not, as the leader, agree with. The journey to becoming an inclusive leader requires having an open mind and being able to actively listen to viewpoints you might not agree with. Allow yourself to listen, to really hear the things you didn’t expect to be discussed. Allow yourself the opportunity to change your mind. Please don’t give someone a seat at the table and then not allow them to contribute. In my case, I was relegated to the back of the room, which was a clear indication that I was not to be seen, and that my voice was also not to be heard. I might as well not have been invited to the meeting.
2. Give individuals credit for work.
Give credit where credit is due. If individuals have done the work, they deserve to present and share their ideas in the meeting. If they did all of the hard work, why shouldn’t they get to present and get credit for their work? Why are other leaders presenting their work instead?
Don’t allow individuals to talk over or interrupt each other. Intervene when you see ideas being stolen, or if ideas are being dismissed. Remember that you don’t have to be the most senior person to do this. We all need to stand up for each other to create an inclusive environment.
3. Pitch in with office work for the meeting.
We may no longer be ordering lunch, setting up the room for a senior leadership meeting with printouts, or passing around samples as many of us continue to work remotely, and yet office work and operational tasks still exists. It shows up in all different forms, including sending invites, tracking attendees, and dealing with technical difficulties. Scheduling virtual happy hours and ensuring team members get their cocktail kits in advance of the gathering. Be an inclusive leader and share the burden; don’t expect the same people on your team to do this work. Schedule a meeting or order that cocktail kit yourself.
Remember that becoming an inclusive leader is a continuous journey. There’s no destination we are rushing to arrive at; there’s no competition to win to see who can be more inclusive; there’s no scientific way, no precise indicator to measure how inclusive you actually are. The first step on this journey is inviting others to have a seat right next to you, to show that you value and recognize their contributions.
“When people feel they are included and belong, they are able to be the best version of themselves at work and are able to contribute all of their ideas freely and openly.”
—Mita Mallick, Head of Inclusion, Equity, and Impact at Carta
About the Author: Mita Mallick is a corporate change-maker with a track record of transforming businesses and cultures. She is the head of inclusion, equity, and impact at Carta. Mallick is a columnist for SWAAY, and her writing has been published in Harvard Business Review, The New York Post, and Business Insider.
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6 Tips to WFH More Efficiently (and Save Yourself Hours)
Being busy doesn’t necessarily mean you’re being productive.
Photo: Color Joy Stock
In the wake of COVID, we’ve all had to rethink how we operate this year, pivot the way we work, and reconsider how our businesses function. One of the areas we’ve all had to be most adaptable in, of course, is right in our own homes. We work here, we live here, we do almost everything here now. Not to mention, we’ve been challenged with new distractions and can’t rely on our usual coping methods due to the fact that we’re, well, at home.
While it all feels quite gloomy—and rightfully so—there is good news here: humans are remarkably resilient and adaptable.
That means there are answers to help us solve at least one of the most pervasive new cultural problems related to being at home: the challenge of overcoming the fatigue that comes with the daily grind. Now that we’ve replaced commutes with endless Zoom calls, Slack messages, and TikTok marathons, you’re likely already familiar with the problem.
Fortunately, with a little innovation in your relationship to work, you have hope of achieving a healthier balance.
As a co-founder of CAVEDAY, a solution that offers focus as a service, I’ve studied and created new methods to help people improve their relationship to work and master the art of working from home so it feels a lot less like a major exhaustion-driving burden and a lot more energizing. Keep scrolling to find out how it’s done.
Batch & Block
Batch your work as much as you can, especially when it comes to meetings.
Try to only take meetings during set times, such as only two days a week or only in the afternoons. Meeting culture is not a new problem, and, for many organizations, has only grown more pervasive during the pandemic (hello again, Zoom!). So while it’s not always possible to have ownership over your own calendar, find windows of time to block off for your most important work.
Once you have your meeting days/times set, during your working days be sure to only check your email once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Start with your most important and the hardest task first. This will make a massive difference in your energy level as you won’t constantly be flipping from meetings to emails to task lists.
Define
Before starting your workday, take a moment to write down exactly what you’re working on. Be as specific as you can. For example, if you have a day of writing ahead of you, putting “write blog post” on your task list isn’t quite clear.
Ask yourself: What part of the project are you tackling? What does “finished” look like? Is this the brainstorming phase, outlining, or actual writing? How far do you want to get? 750 words? A chapter? Clearly defining your work, in a set amount of time, helps combat overwhelm, and allows you to more simply focus on one task at a time.
Scope
How long does it take you to finish a certain task such as drafting a proposal or creating a presentation? Over and under-scoping how long individual tasks take is a surefire way to always be “on” and to quickly overtire.
Knowing how long projects take gives you a better understanding of how to plan your day. To figure out how long things take, start with something you do often. No need to rush, but focus on just that one task and time yourself.
Then, in the future, you’ll know exactly what kind of time blocks to set to get the job done.
Take Breaks
Research shows that the brain can’t focus on a task for more than 52 minutes at a time. Mindful and intentional breaks actually help maintain your energy. Just pushing through to the finish line quickly ends in fatigue.
But, be sure to take breaks wisely. The difference between absent-minded and intentional breaks is that you are making the choice when to stop and how to spend your time. Getting caught in an endless scroll is not a mindful break. Walking away from your desk, stretching your body, or calling a friend is an excellent way to press pause before returning to your work.
Remove Distractions
Simple in theory, difficult in practice. Removing distractions (like turning off notifications, closing the door, and—dealing with the biggest distraction of all—putting your phone away) is one of the smallest steps we can take in order to avoid fatigue. We are constantly bombarded with interruptions (every 11 minutes on average), so the more agency we have on controlling external distractions, the better equipped we are to stay focused.
Establish Rituals
One of the biggest and most overlooked changes we’ve faced this year is the loss of transition. Remember that good old commute?
The loss of that time that signifies the beginning and end of our workday, such as driving to the office, riding the crowded subway, or meeting friends after work held a ton of significance in our lives (maybe even more than we once gave credit).
Whatever that transition was and whether or not you looked forward to it, it was part of your day and routine. We’ve lost that for now, but that transition time is precious and must be preserved. It’s baked-in time to prepare for and reflect on your day. Without it, we forget to take moments to pause and we wind up being “on” for much longer than intended.
While it may seem trivial, establish a new ritual to start and end your day. A walk around the block, your morning coffee with no work, shut down or close your computer at the same time every day, read a non-work related article before leaving your workstation. Doesn’t matter what it is and it can be small, but this will give your brain and body a cue for when you’re working and when you’re not.
Our culture promotes shallow work and we’ve gotten really good at being “busy”. But busy doesn’t mean productive. Fatigue does not have to be a way of life. Instead, mindfully approaching your work and time allows for more spaciousness in other areas of your life. It’s not easy to put these tips into practice, so CAVEDAY memberships intentionally make it easier for people to practice these tips, as it’s all baked right into the service. Trust us, it’s worth the effort to master this new way of life. You might even be astonished by the quantity and quality of your output.
“Busy doesn’t mean productive.”
—Molly Sonsteng, Co-Founder of CAVEDAY
About the Author: Molly Sonsteng is a producer, experience designer, and entrepreneur dedicated to time well spent and deepening human connections. She’s created countless projects that encourage people to live creative and meaningful lives. A classically trained singer, her professional history includes working for Carnegie Hall, Manhattan School of Music, and Daybreaker. She ran a summer camp and a political campaign office, developed a music curriculum, taught preschool, and was the Director of Admissions at a music conservatory. In addition to Caveday, Molly is a cofounder of Madcap Factory, an amusingly eccentric production house helping brands engage their communities.
Use the code CULTIVATE to redeem a free three-hour Caveday session at www.caveday.org/schedule.
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How to Give a Great Toast No Matter the Occasion
Remember the three B’s: Be brief, be brilliant, be gone.
Photo: Create & Cultivate
Whether you’re celebrating your work wife’s promotion or raising a glass of bubbly at your best friend’s wedding, knowing how to give a great toast is a life skill that’s worth mastering, but, of course, that’s easier said than done. When honoring someone with a toast, you want to be heartfelt, kind, funny, and poignant, which is no small feat (especially when you consider that 73% of people suffer from speech anxiety before giving a presentation or public speech), so we tapped two experts for some tips.
At our recent Future You Festive, Jeni Britton Bauer, the founder and chief brand officer of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and Brian Fairleigh, the brand education manager at Chandon, spilled the details on how to give a great toast, no matter the occasion. If you missed their must-watch workshop at our digital summit, don’t worry, we have you covered! Scroll on for Bauer and Fairleigh’s tried-and-true tips on how to raise a glass and give a memorable toast that won’t end in dreaded awkward silence or elicit eye rolls.
Psst… If you’re having serious FOMO, join Create & Cultivate Insiders to get unlimited access to all of our Future You Festival content including video recordings of every panel and workshop download in C&C history.
Tip #1: Read the Audience
When preparing to give a toast, the very first thing you need to do is read the audience. “It's important to see who's in front of you,” advises Fairleigh. “Because what you're going to say to an audience of old businessmen versus your friends at your friend's wedding are totally different things.” Consider who will be raising their glasses with you and let that help inform the content of your toast.
Tip #2: Read the Situation
After you’ve considered your audience, you want to be mindful of the situation. "Sometimes you want to make jokes, sometimes you want to roast the person a little bit, sometimes you want to be very sincere and very from the heart," explains Fairleigh. Being mindful of the occasion will ensure your toast resonates with your audience.
Are you at a wedding where a heartfelt toast describing the happy couple’s meet-cute moment would be most appropriate? Are you raising a glass to your work wife’s promotion where that funny anecdote about how she accidentally signed off an email with “have a nice eek” will get a laugh? Be sure to take both your audience and the situation into account to give a cheers-worthy toast people will remember.
Tip #3: Keep It Short and Sweet
Just as important as reading the room, knowing your audience, and being mindful of the moment is knowing when to wrap it up. “I can't tell you how many times I've seen people give a toast where they absolutely crush it in the first couple of lines, but then, when they see that they're doing well, start taking risks and don't cut it off when they're still in their prime,” says Fairleigh. “Remember the three B’s: Be brief, be brilliant, be gone.”
Tip #4: Prepare
While toasting is meant to be improvisational, a little bit of preparation goes a long way, especially if you’re nervous. “There are a lot of templates that you can use if you're freaked out,” recommends Bauer. “Take someone else's speech and rewrite it for yourself because you will change it in such a way, based on your own life and your own experiences, that no one will recognize it.”
If you’re debating whether or not to use notecards as you prepare for giving a toast, Bauer is pro notecards. "It's not a problem to use cards if you have to, as long as you love people, you care about them, you care about what you're doing, and as long as you're speaking from the heart, it doesn’t matter," she notes. The most important thing is that your words are coming from a place of sincerity.
Tip #5: Be Authentic
Fairleigh's number one piece of advice for giving a great toast? Be authentic. "You just have to be authentic,” he says. “When you're giving a toast, people will see through it if you're saying something that you don't believe in." Speaking from the heart is always a good idea when honoring someone with a toast.
Tip #6: Practice
"Always, always practice," advises Fairleigh. "I mean it works for anything, whether your public speaking or whether giving a toast." Practicing your toast ahead of time will ensure that you’re prepared to deliver a memorable toast and help keep nerves at bay (along with a glass of sparkling Chandon wine, that is!).
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Where to Travel Based on Your Zodiac Sign
The Astro Twins share the top destinations that align with the stars.
Whether you’re an adventurous Aquarius or a venturing Virgo, your destination is written in the stars—just ask the Astro Twins! In search of inspiration for our next PTO-worthy vacation, we tapped the famous astrologists to map out our next trip in partnership with Alaska Airlines. “Your zodiac sign has a lot to say about your temperament, which means that people will respond to destinations in different ways,” explain Ophira and Tali Edut, the identical twin sisters otherwise known as the Astro Twins.
According to the astrological duo, “fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) are active and curious, preferring places where they can move around and explore. Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) enjoy serene environments that are both comfortable and natural,” says Astro Twins. “Air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are the communicators, so the social energy of a town will be the barometer of fun. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) are emotional and can be ultra-sensitive to their surroundings; a quiet place to recharge in between adventures is essential.”
Keep reading to find out where to travel based on your zodiac sign, but be forewarned, you’re going to start drafting your OOO message before you get to the end.
Editor's note: During COVID-19, travel restrictions are prone to change. Always check before departure and follow local guidance. Alaska Airlines is committed to your health and safety, learn more about Next-Level Care.
Aries: March 21 – April 19
Destination: Palm Springs
Why Aries Should Travel There: Wide-open sky and dry heat offer a relaxing climate for the zodiac’s freedom-loving fire sign. From its modernist architecture to the colorful characters who call Palm Springs home, this town boasts the perfect amount of quirk for originality-loving Aries.
What to Do: Soak up your RDA of socially distanced pool time at the area’s bespoke hotels. Then, pack a picnic (and lots of water) and drive 40 miles to Joshua Tree National Park where stunning boulder formations intersect with spiky trees and other desert flora.
What to Take: Swimsuits and hiking boots.
Top Travel Tip for Aries: Travel with independent companions who won’t mind when you trek off on a solo adventure here and there—you hate to wait!
Taurus: April 20 – May 20
Destination: Yosemite
Why Taurus Should Travel There: With its granite mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and towering Sequoia trees, it’s little wonder that Yosemite captivated the heart (and lens!) of Taurus photographer Ansel Adams. This stunning destination will be eye candy for beauty- and nature-loving Bulls.
What to Do: While shuttle services aren’t operating, roads remain open to vehicles. Park at a trailhead and hike to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias or to the footbridge of the 317-foot Vernal Falls. Hoofing it isn’t required though! Visit Yosemite’s many vantage points by car for a stunning view of Half Dome, the park’s most famous rock formation.
What to Take: A camera (SLR and/or instant film) for your own landscape photography adventure.
Top Travel Tip for Taurus: Agree on budget before the trip to avoid overspending or having to pick up the tab for friends who don’t share your appetite for luxury.
Gemini: May 21 – June 20
Destination: Nashville
Why Gemini Should Travel There: Incredible music and a thriving local scene: those are two of a Gemini's favorite things, and this Tennessee enclave boasts both! In fact, like the dualistic Twin, Nashville's a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll. Thanks to its uniquely defined neighborhoods and districts, a journey to this city is like multiple trips rolled into one. It's a lively getaway for these mercurial folks who consider variety the spice of life.
What to Do: Snack on cayenne-drenched “hot chicken” while jamming to live music—along the storied Music Row or by spontaneous discovery of Nashville's talented street buskers strumming on the sidewalk. Head to lower Broadway to soak up a bit of honky-tonk, tip back PBRs, and try a fried bologna sandwich. Take a day to visit historic sites like The Grand Ole Opry and the bizarre Pantheon, which is a full-scale replica of the original Greek monolith.
What to Take: A bag (for hot sauce!) and cash for street musicians and tips.
Top Travel Tip for Gemini: Enjoy making friends in every new destination, but try not to abandon your travel crew in the process!
Cancer: June 21 – July 22
Destination: Bozeman
Why Cancer Should Travel There: Like the zodiac's crab, this low-key Montana city is an unexpected gem with plenty of charming surprises to unpack. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, a short drive from Yellowstone National Park, Cancers can get their restorative nature fix here. The zodiac's foodies will love the culinary scene here too, which earned the city the nickname "Boz Angeles" for its upscale restaurants.
What to Do: Cancers love to feel cozy and "at home" while on vacation. Put on your finest fleece and take a stroll down the trendy Main Street for coffee and haute baked goods. This Millennial-friendly town has access to incredible outdoor activities that appeal to this sporty water sign. Ski at the world-class Big Sky, soak in the area's hot springs, and if your timing is right, go see Old Faithful erupt at nearby Yellowstone. For a day trip, the Montana Grizzly Encounter— a natural sanctuary built for rescued bears—will tug at sentimental Cancer's heartstrings.
What to Take: Trendy outdoor gear and a backpack.
Top Travel Tip for Cancer: Unless you feel totally comfortable with your travel mates, book your own room. You’ll need private time to reboot along the way.
Leo: July 23 – August 22
Destination: Puerto Vallarta
Why Leo Should Travel There: While a 2021 trip may include more siestas than fiestas, spending time in the sunshine is balm to this fire sign’s soul. The warm weather doesn’t hurt a bit either! With the Sierra Madre range flanking one side of PV and the Pacific on the other, there’s plenty of beauty for this aesthetic sign to enjoy. A dip in the ocean comes with the bonus of gorgeous mountain views… ahhh!
What to Do: Adventurous, romantic Leos can wander the cobblestone streets of this hilly port town. Stop along the way to sample the food, shop for colorful wares (flamboyant Leo’s weakness), and watch the sun turn crimson as it sets in the west. Jalisco, the home state of Puerto Vallarta, is one of the only Mexican areas designated to produce tequila. The bar scene might be limited in PV this year, but festive Leos can schedule a tasting of the area’s spirits.
What to Take: Sunscreen and ibuprofen.
Top Travel Tip for Leo: Don’t expect people to keep up with your “go, go, go!” agenda. You may have to rotate companions for different activities or make new friends along the journey.
Virgo: August 23 – September 22
Destination: Austin
Why Virgo Should Travel There: Let's be clear: sitting around a pool all day is not a Virgo's idea of a fun vacation. These curious, sociable folks need to move around. And they usually show up to a destination with a long list of attractions that they've diligently researched. Finding the best of anything keeps Virgos entertained. Hey, this is the zodiac’s purist and perfectionist we’re talking about! From food trucks to indie boutiques to music venues, exploring Austin will keep this trivia-loving sign engaged.
What to Do: A Virgo’s journalistic curiosity could spin out in Austin! Idea: Organize an itinerary in a streamlined way. Pick a category per day and go exploring, with a camera in tow to record adventures on social media. The city’s famous graffiti and street art is the perfect subject matter for a #MuralMonday. Sample the city’s food trucks and craft brewery tour for #TastingTuesday. Staying fit and active is important to this earth sign. Bike around Austin on a colorful cruiser and get a great upper body workout kayaking down Lady Bird Lake.
What to Take: Selfie equipment like a tripod and remote shutter.
Top Travel Tip for Virgo: Read the reviews and travel blogs, and scout out the area before your trip. Arrive with a list of recommended activities and venues—and try not to be too critical if they don’t live up to your standards.
Libra: September 23 – October 22
Destination: San Francisco
Why Libra Should Travel There: Leisurely Libras can restore their balance in this laid-back Pacific Northwest metropolis. Take in the urban landscape at any of San Francisco’s 220 parks—that’s one every half-mile, and more than any other U.S. city boasts. The top-notch culinary and cocktails scene provide a social fix for outgoing, culture-loving Libras, even while distancing. Take-out or patio dining?
What to Do: Romantic Libras can reprise the art of the promenade, strolling along Fisherman’s Wharf and to Baker Beach for a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. While a bit more planning is required, tickets can be purchased in advance for many of the city’s attractions. With its towering pagoda and 9,000-lb. Lantern of Peace, serene Libras can reclaim their Zen wandering through the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park. The Conservatory of Flowers is also in here, providing eye candy for aesthetic Libras with its array of rare tropical blooms.
What to Take: A warm, water-repellent jacket for moments where the fog covers the sun.
Top Travel Tip for Libra: Wake up early to primp so you don’t keep your travel companions waiting—but avoid traveling with people who rush you.
Scorpio: October 23 – November 21
Destination: Anchorage
Why Scorpio Should Travel There: Mysterious Scorpios have been accused of being “icy” at times, but we’re not judging! These ultra-cool waters signs will feel right at home in Anchorage, Alaska where the area’s glaciers sparkle like wonders of the world.
What to Do: Drive two hours to see the Portage Glacier—and if you’re feeling sporty, hit the Trail of Blue Ice, a 7.1-mile path that can be hiked or biked. More two-wheeling adventures await back in Anchorage where snow biking has become a popular way to zip through the sparkling powder and across frozen lakes. Scorpios are night owls and good thing for that! From September to April, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) paint the night sky brilliant hues—a must-see phenomenon for this alchemical sign.
What to Take: A book to read by the fire.
Top Travel Tip for Scorpio: Bring your creature comforts along for the journey: favorite toiletries, your own pillow, books, and a journal for recording late-night reflections spurred by the trip.
Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21
Destination: New York City
Why Sagittarius Should Travel There: Have sneakers, will travel! Outdoorsy Archers don’t mind bundling up for an urban odyssey—especially in a place like New York, where there’s potential for discovery around every corner. Although restrictions have been especially tough on this globetrotting sign, the international flavor of NYC can feel like its own kind of passport stamp.
What to Do: Head to lower Manhattan, then walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to visit the birthplace of legendary Sagittarians Jay-Z and Frank Sinatra. Stop into a pizza shop for some of the best slices you’ve ever tasted. While suspended between NYC and Brooklyn, marvel at the magnificent skyline and the Statue of Liberty. You may suddenly understand why people believed that the streets here were paved with gold.
What to Take: A jumbo-sized bottle of hand sanitizer.
Top Travel Tip for Sagittarius: While you love to discover an area when you arrive, do some preliminary research—at the very least to reserve a rental car and hotel!
Capricorn: December 22 – January 19
Destination: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Why Capricorn Should Travel There: The zodiac’s mountaineering Goat will feel right at home among the peaks and valleys of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Sporty Capricorns can take advantage of world-class skiing and rock-climbing opportunities. The less daring of this sign will revel in the natural wonders surrounding this town, like Yellowstone National Park.
What to Do: Fill your lungs with fresh air as you hike (or bike!) the alpine trails of Grand Teton National Park. Take a short drive to Yellowstone National Park, home of 500 geysers, including Old Faithful. Stay alert, because you might just spot a moose, bear, or bison along your trek.
What to Take: Binoculars for viewing the native wildlife.
Top Travel Tip for Capricorn: Scout out “the best” of everything before the trip, from restaurants to bars to beaches. Traveling unprepared gives you anxiety.
Aquarius: January 20 – February 18
Destination: Seattle
Why Aquarius Should Travel There: This Pacific Northwest technology hub is the perfect playground for sporty, innovative Aquarians. With drivable day trips to mountain ranges, snowboarding, skiing, and stunning hikes are easy add-ons to a trip here. Since Aquarius is the sign that rules social change, the city’s historic activism could be a draw for these cosmic revolutionaries.
What to Do: Seattle is dotted with quaint neighborhoods, each one charming visitors with indie boutiques (hello vintage!), coffee culture, urban parks—and on a clear day, a view of the majestic Mt. Rainier. Ride a ferry to one of the surrounding islands for a day trip. Pick up freshly caught seafood and farm-fresh produce at Pike Place Market, which spans several city blocks in the heart of Seattle’s downtown.
What to Take: A travel mug for sipping the roasts from Seattle’s storied coffeeshops.
Top Travel Tip for Aquarius: Don’t overbook your itinerary. Following spontaneous whims could lead to a much better time than planning every hour!
Pisces: February 19 – March 20
Destination: Maui, Hawaii
Why Pisces Should Travel There: Nothing soothes the zodiac's mermaid (or merman) like a beach vacation. This blossoming Hawaiian paradise delivers all the magic that Pisces live for. No matter their GPS coordinates, this laid-back, ethereal zodiac sign is always on "island time." The unhurried pace of Maui offers plenty of time to dream, meditate, and download divine inspiration for their many creative projects.
What to Do: Splash in turquoise waters, munch on tropical fruit, nap to music under an umbrella in the pristine sand—white or black lava rock, depending on the beach you choose. Unwind with a mug of cava. Sleep. Repeat. Once thoroughly relaxed, snorkel with "fellow fish" at Honolua Bay or Five Caves—a site for sea turtles, unicornfish, pincushion sea stars, and reef sharks! When you need some shade, cool off under the massive, 16-trunk Lahaina banyan tree which rises 60 feet in the air and spans the length of a city block!
What to Take: A sketchbook or dream journal—and crystals to charge by the ocean (for the woo Pisces out there!)
Top Travel Tip for Pisces: Book a quiet room so you can sleep and dream with minimal interruptions—rest is key for your vacation rejuvenation.
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Living Limitless–Chante Burkett
Empowerment can be the greatest source of transformation.
What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
I love my strength and perseverance! Powering through tough times and being able to be the rock for my daughter. I’m really proud of my strength and my vision in life.
Is confidence something that came naturally to you or was it something you had to learn?
I’ve always had confidence, it was one of those things “If I don’t love myself, who else is going to love me”
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
For me confidence is all about being comfortable with where you are currently in life. Comfortable being you, comfortable in your skin and comfortable in whatever clothing you choose to wear. I feel the most confident when my life is in balance.
How has your confidence changed with time?
When it comes to confidence I feel like we all have or days when we don’t feel the best and might not be so confident. That's why it’s very important to check in on your mental and don’t be so hard on yourself.
Role models are important for women of all ages–is there anyone in particular whose confidence or advice helped you find your own inner beauty?
My grandmother is my biggest role model who helped see my inner beauty at an early age (7). I would sit and watch her (a plus-size woman) get ready for our family functions. I loved how she carried herself and how all eyes would turn on her she could walk into a room. It was definitely her confidence.
Words are powerful, and they can have a powerful effect on our own personal narratives–what advice can you share on learning how to combat negative self-talk and tap into the power of positivity?
Whenever I feel myself going down the hole of negative self-talk I try to focus on the things I love about myself. We will forever have those days when we just aren’t feeling ourselves but that's what positive self talk is for. I also try to journal my negativity away.
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
Believe it or not, my father is the person in the life who I run to for support. He reminds me of who I am and what I can do.
What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and self-love?
I think the key to self love is learning to be selfish. Knowing that it is ok to set boundaries and it’s important to take time to yourself.
How do you make time to prioritize self-love and self-care?
Self-love/Self-care is a top priority in my life. I map out time for just me daily and once a month I treat myself. It’s important to not only love on yourself but to also take care of yourself.
Living Limitless–Kristina Zias
Empowerment can be the greatest source of transformation.
What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
I love that I truly accept myself, the good, the bad and everything in between. I am most proud of my persistence. I’ve always believed in myself and am very determined.
What has motherhood taught you––and how has it changed you?
Motherhood has taught me patience, unconditional love and that “balance” is unrealistic. As a working mom, something always has to give and realizing that I can’t be 100% in career mode and mom mode at the same time has allowed me to be more forgiving and patient.
Is confidence something that came naturally to you in motherhood or was it something you had to learn?
Confidence came very naturally to me. I somehow knew what I was doing and when I didn’t, I wasn’t afraid to ask for help or admit that I didn’t know what I was doing.
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
Confidence feels like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Being confident is incredibly freeing. I feel the most confident when I overcome any challenges.
How has your confidence changed with time?
Confidence is a journey and mine has definitely ebbed and flowed. As a teenager, and even in my early 20s, I was very insecure in my body and am proud that now I look at my body with such respect and appreciation.
Do you ever have moments where you feel insecure? What helps you to overcome this?
Of course! I think a lot of times people view insecurities as the antithesis of confidence but I couldn’t disagree more. Acknowledging my insecurities and working past them is a form of confidence for me and the first step to overcoming them! Honestly, I’ve been a bit insecure about my breasts since having my son. They have just changed so much and I wasn’t really doing anything about it, but, getting virtually fitted by Elomi, and now being in a proper fitting bra is such a game changer! I noticed a change instantaneously!
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
I turn to my husband, my family and friends! My husband is a big picture guy. I am a co-founder of The Confident Collective, a women’s empowerment community, and after a successful launch party (we hosted 80 people), he said we should aim to make our future events like Coachella. When he said that I laughed but he quickly made me feel like it was totally possible, and you know what, he’s right.
How do we raise confident children? What are some ways we can aim to be a positive role model as a parent?
By practicing what you preach, leading by example and letting them know that with hard work anything is possible. I actually recently heard this parenting tip on tiktok (I know, so deep) but it really stuck with me. Whenever my son does something new or something I am proud of I say, “you should be so proud of yourself” instead of “I am so proud of you.” I think this little shift in verbiage makes such a big difference!
Living Limitless–Maxey Greene
Empowerment can be the greatest source of transformation.
What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
My drive. I’ve always been so passionate about my work and my career. I’ve been working hard for a long time and actually feared being a mom might slow me down, but I’m finding my balance and I’m actually really proud of that! But career wise- I launched a clothing collaboration this year with Hutch & Nuuly. It was a dream of mine for a very long time and it felt amazing seeing it come alive.
What has motherhood taught you––and how has it changed you?
You got to go with the flow. I feel like I used to be pretty rigid before my son. With a kid- you can try all you want to have things go a certain way or a certain schedule, but at the end of the day you kind of just have to roll with it.
Is confidence something that came naturally to you in motherhood or was it something you had to learn?
My instincts kicked in incredibly fast. I actually kind of shocked myself. There are definitely moments where I think “what the hell am I doing?” but anytime I look at him and he smiles his big gummy smile- I know I’m doing something right.
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
Confidence feels like freedom. Feeling insecure makes you feel anxious and that you just want to hide away. When you don’t feel that way- you can just feel so free. Free to just be you.
How has your confidence changed with time?
I definitely find myself getting even more confident as I get older. I think it has less to do with appearance and more to do with just being secure with who you are. Looks will keep changing, but when your secure with your core self- you kind of flow with the changes.
Do you ever have moments where you feel insecure? What helps you to overcome this?
Of course. Every one has insecurities- it’s what makes us human. I try not to focus too hard on it. I put my attention on things I don’t feel insecure about.
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
My partner, Daniel, is my support. I couldn’t imagine not having him cheering me on everyday. He makes me feel capable of anything. His words motivate me, but just knowing that he’s by my side makes me feel like I can accomplish anything.
Living Limitless–Rochelle Johnson
Empowerment can be the greatest source of transformation.
What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
I love my heart the most. I’m very empathetic and I automatically think about how my actions and words will affect others. I’m also very independent. It’s one of the attributes I learned from my mother and very grateful for.
What has motherhood taught you––and how has it changed you?
Motherhood has taught me soooo many things. First and foremost it has taught me to never judge the actions of other mothers. It can be so damaging when that judgement is vocalized. I also have learned how to advocate for my children and trust my instincts. Which can be hard as a more soft spoken person but I know that If I don’t advocate for them, no one will!
Is confidence something that came naturally to you in motherhood or was it something you had to learn?
Confidence in motherhood definitely has to be learned. I was so scared and unsure with my first baby it took a while to enjoy the moments. It was so hard. This time around I’m so much more confident and know that I have everything I need to handle any situation that comes.
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
Confidence is not constantly feeling bad about yourself, more specifically your body and how you take up space. Confidence is walking into a room of people that you don’t know, or that don’t look like you and not shrinking down. It’s knowing you belong and you deserve to take up space. I feel most confident when I have an outfit on that I really love, and that helps give you a boost when you walk into that room.
How has your confidence changed with time?
When I was a teenager I looked different from my friends and no one really wants to be different at that age. I honestly had great friends that never made me feel bad about my size but at the same time was insecure because they were all thin, and I wasn’t. Now I’m a lot more confident because even though I could be the largest person in the room, and I don’t care. I just don’t think about that.
Do you ever have moments where you feel insecure? What helps you to overcome this?
I’m most insecure around people that I’m not familiar with. I normally have to give myself a pep talk before I arrive or once I’m there. I tell myself, you’re supposed to be here. You are worthy. I also try to remind self to be open to new places and new people.
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
I turn to my husband who is also my best friend for support. He’s one of the people in the world that really knows me. When I talk to him about anything I know he’s going to give me good advice and if I don’t like his advice I will turn to google, lol.
Living Limitless–Caralyn Mirand Koch
Empowerment can be the greatest source of transformation.
What do you love most about yourself––what are you most proud of?
I love that I can help transform someone's confidence, that is one of my most favorite skills.
Career wise, I am most proud of the online community I've built filled with supportive, helpful and kind people and the #ProperlyFittingBraClub! It's a movement I started to educate and empower women to get a properly fitting bra.
What does confidence feel like to you? When do you feel the most confident?
I genuinely used to think that I would wake up one day and just magically be confident. I now know confidence isn’t something that is automatic. You can’t just turn on confidence as confidence is rooted in your belief of yourself at any given time. It is something to be conscious of and work at everyday. Think of being, feeling confident like a muscle memory - the more you use it, the more familiar and stronger it will become.
How has your confidence changed with time?
If there’s one thing I think we all have in common is that everyone has struggled with feeling confident at one time or another in life. Confidence varies from experience to experience, among genders, and can be fleeting, situational, or rooted. Heck, there are still moments when I struggle with confidence about my body, my career, and life in general... I certainly do not have it all figured out and realizing that allows me to recognize the journey, and hopefully can be helpful to you by sharing.
Words are powerful, and they can have a powerful effect on our own personal narratives–what advice can you share on learning how to combat negative self-talk and tap into the power of positivity?
Confidence is rooted in self-love. It is really my job to love me first, before anyone else, and before I can well receive love. True self-love involves showing up for yourself even when you feel unlovable, or shameful. Take steps to listen to yourself, identify what caused you to not be able to clearly identify your needs or boundaries. This helps me to feel good about me.
Something I've learned is to speak to myself kindly and lovingly, like I would to a young child (my sweet niece comes to mind). Would I tell my niece that she is a fat, ugly, worthless person? Typing that gave me shivers. I would never, and I do not think any of you would either. So why should I say that to myself or you say that to yourself? On the days when we are down & feeling low, and we all have them, I am particularly aware of that self-talk and strive to always keep it positive.
Who do you turn to for support in life? Describe how they bring out the best in you and empower you to live your life without limits?
My husband, Brian! He is truly my best friend and teammate through everything. He inspires me to be the best version of myself, challenges me and provides some comedic relief through it all.
What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and self-love?
Life is a journey, with confidence being a major influencing factor! We all are traveling on our own path, at our own rate. It is not a sprint but a marathon, and I’m here to cheer you on. Know you are worthy! Feel good about you and be proud of who and where you are. Embrace you, as I do! I know how hard it can be at times so by me sharing my journey you'll know you are never alone!
How do you make time to prioritize self-love and self-care?
I'm a strong believer in setting healthy boundaries for myself, and in my relationships and professional life. Having healthy boundaries allows me to make myself a priority, in self-care, career aspirations, or within relationships. Setting boundaries is about giving yourself agency and empowerment. Honoring our limits helps us to take better care of ourselves which leads to feeling confident.
How to Set Your New Year's Intentions (Because Resolutions Are So 2020)
A more flexible approach to goal-setting.
Photo: Color Joy Stock
2020. What. A. Year. I’m guessing that you, like me, are ready to leave 2020 behind and head into the new year ready for some much-needed change. Traditionally, the start of a new year calls us to make a resolution and spend the beginning part of our year making it happen. It’s a time for improvement and renewal buoyed by hope and inspiration. However, if you’re looking to make a deeper, lasting change and achieve greater success in both your personal and professional lives, I’d encourage you to forgo the resolutions this year and instead set an intention.
What’s the difference? A resolution is a specific goal to achieve your desired result typically brought on by a perception of weakness and a need for improvement in an explicit part of your life. For example, common resolutions include exercising for weight loss, healthy eating to reduce cholesterol, signing up for a class to develop new professional skills.
An intention, however, is an overarching idea of how you want to live a life that aligns with your values and, in turn, drives your actions and decisions. I liken it to the top of an organizational chart. At the very top is your intention, and beneath it lies the different parts of your life (professional, relationships, etc.). Stemming from each subdivision are the many ways that you can incorporate your intention in order to achieve improvements and success within the scope of that part of your life. In this approach, you provide yourself with an overall roadmap for how to live your life in accordance with this value that trickles out to all the parts of your life.
If you’re ready to make a profound impact on your life, here are the actionable steps you can take to successfully set an intention and implement it into your life.
Step 1: Reflect on 2020
Take a moment to look back at your year in order to understand what aspects of life are important to you and where you can create and cultivate inspired action to achieve more balance and purpose. Reflect on both the wins and the challenges. Trying to assess your overall approach to life.
Step 2: Create Your Vision for 2021
Based upon this reflection, ask yourself, “How do I want to move forward in 2021?” What vision do you have for yourself in this upcoming year within the various parts of your life? It is this vision of yourself that will help you pinpoint the attributes that you need to embody in order to achieve this evolution.
Step 3: Set Your Intention
Once you’ve imagined how you will personally define a successful year, you can begin to brainstorm power words or phrases that sum up your overall vision. Go through your list and pick the top two or three that resonate the most with you. Visualize what it would look like to have each intention guiding you throughout your daily life, and based on this projection, you’ll know which direction to head towards for your intention.
For example, if I reflected on a year that felt constrained because of a lack of work opportunities and a quarantined social life, an intention that might resonate with me is “to be limitless.” This intention would then translate into seeking out or creating opportunities for myself in my professional life and finding ways to expand my outlook and create abundance in my personal life.
If you would like some extra help with finding an intention, I invite you to try out my guided meditation on intention setting on my podcast, “Responding to Life: Talking Health, Fertility, & Parenthood.”
Step 4: Infuse Your Intention Into Your Daily Life
Resolutions can be tough to maintain because they are so specific and rigid. The benefit of an intention is that it can be flexible and flow with how your life unfolds. Because your intention is an overarching concept, you can play around with your interpretations of it on a daily or weekly basis.
The key to staying accountable with your new year’s intention, however, is to call it to mind every morning. Whether you are able to sit in a three-minute meditation or just reflect on your intention during your morning routine, by calling to mind your intention, you can set a road map for your day making sure to infuse and manifest this value into your plans each day.
“As you head into this new year of much-needed renewal and hope, I encourage you to cultivate this vision of yourself each day with inspired action to create lasting success in all aspects of your life.”
—Josephine Atluri, Host of the Podcast "Responding to Life"
About the author: Josephine Atluri is an expert in fertility and motherhood mindfulness and meditation and in helping others overcome adversity to find joy. Through her unique journey on her path to becoming a mom of five, Josephine weathered many ups and downs with miscarriages, IVF, international adoption, and surrogacy. Channeling her experience to find calm and courage and to focus on perseverance, she now helps others navigate life’s curveballs through online meditation training, fertility mindfulness workshops, and her podcast, “Responding to Life.”
Josephine is a regular content contributor for Motherly and Red Tricycle and she is also a preferred mental wellness provider for The Fertility Tribe, The IVF Warrior, Robyn, and the Fertility Circle. Josephine’s expertise has been featured in Woman’s Day, Prevention Magazine, Mind Body Green, Well + Good, The Bump, Peanut, and the L.A. Times. During this time of extreme isolation and anxiety, Josephine shares practical stress management tips including tools to help ground yourself via the free meditation videos on her site www.jatluri.com. For a free monthly video meditation and wellness tips, be sure to sign up to receive her monthly newsletter on her site. For daily inspiration, be sure to follow her on Instagram @josephineratluri.
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How Years of Working as an Assistant Trained Me to Think Like an Executive
"You always have to hope for the best and plan for the worst."
“You always have to hope for the best and plan for the worst.”
—Morgan McLachlan, Co-Founder, Chief Product Officer, and Master Distiller, AMASS
After working in the film industry as a camera assistant for nearly a decade, in 2012 I co-founded The Spirit Guild, one of LA’s first craft distilleries that specializes in making a variety of spirits from California’s diverse flora. From there, in 2018 I went on to co-found AMASS, a Los Angeles-based botanics brand that utilizes the power of plants to transform the social and self-care rituals of modern life.
In my role as chief product officer and master distiller at AMASS, I oversee product development across categories, from spirits to hand sanitizer to candles and work to finetune the flavor and scent profiles using natural botanicals for all of our products. While my experience as an assistant in the entertainment industry may seem like an unlikely match for a career in spirits and self-care products, I’ve found that the two have more in common than they do differently.
Here’s what I’ve learned from years of working as an assistant, and how I’ve channeled those experiences into becoming a successful executive.
Always be proactive in anticipating your boss’ needs.
I think a lot of people get into an assistant position and think their job is just to take orders. While that could certainly be true, the fact of the matter is, planning, managing people, and delegating is a lot of work for executives, so a truly good assistant will see what is coming down the pipe, and step up to help before they are asked. They’re always three steps ahead of their boss.
When I was 19 and just getting started in my career, I was surprised to find that my bosses liked me being proactive. It seems obvious now, but at the time I was far more passive and nervous to overstep boundaries. By the end of my career as an assistant, however, I was giving insight and instruction to the executives that I was assisting. In short, I was often telling them what to do, not the other way around. Of course, they had to trust me, but decision fatigue is a very real thing. By taking care of the tasks that I thought were appropriate for me to handle and make decisions on, I was taking a lot off their plate.
In my experience, the most important thing you can do is gain situational awareness, and begin to anticipate your boss’ needs before they are even aware they have those needs. There doesn’t need to be a lot of fanfare or pageantry; simply taking care of them is enough. Fundamentally, by stepping into a proactive mindset, and anticipating both planned undertakings, and elements that could be potential obstacles, I developed my strategic and derivative thinking skills.
Photo: Courtesy of AMASS
Develop fail-safes.
I worked in the entertainment industry, which is challenging in that the hours are long and there are a lot of personalities. Things are changing constantly; it’s not like you’re working at a big corporation where you clock in at 9 am and out at 5 pm every day. There is a lot of interdepartmental communication that has to happen constantly, and the stakes are very high.
Since a lot of my assistant work was in the camera department, we’d get the production schedule of the movie or the episode of television and only have four hours to shoot at one particular location. If I didn’t have every single piece of equipment and the right personnel, my little oversight could cost the production tens of thousands of dollars. Developing fail-safe confirmation systems was imperative.
Take the job seriously.
Today, I see a lot of people in junior and assistant positions who don’t necessarily value the job, see assistant work as below them, and are focused on getting experience in the industry and networking for their own career advancement. Assistant roles are often seen as stepping stones to bigger and better offers, but by committing to doing an exceptional job as an assistant, I believe that these roles offer the opportunity to develop the mental discipline and strategic thinking that is necessary to navigate larger or entrepreneurial entities in an executive capacity.
When I really committed to being a great assistant—switching into a proactive mindset, anticipating my boss’ needs on every level, and developing fail-safes—I think that’s when things unlocked for me.
In my role as AMASS’ chief product officer and master distiller, I always look at everything I do from a 360 perspective. Usually, in my mind, there’s a production schedule detailing what the next steps are. In managing a company and continuous product development and production, there is a lot of operational planning required to bring a product to market. You never want to do things last minute, since there’s an 85% chance that it won’t happen since things never show up on time. For me, I think that’s the most important lesson learned; to always have a long term strategy and attempt to anticipate everything that can go wrong.
At AMASS, we’ve seen that play out through the pandemic. In March, we were one of the first brands that transitioned from producing spirits to hand sanitizer. Foreseeing this need in the market before other brands were even considering developing sanitizing products was crucial for us as a business. While we’ve encountered hiccups along the way, developing systems to succeed and staying three steps ahead—just as I did as an assistant—has been a large part of our success. You always have to hope for the best and plan for the worst.
Photo: Courtesy of AMASS
About the Author: Morgan McLachlan grew up in the Canadian Pacific Northwest, where she spent many afternoons exploring the forest, forging what would become a lifelong fascination with nature and botany. After a decade-long career in the entertainment industry working as a camera operator on motion pictures, Morgan shifted her creative and technical abilities to a new craft: distilled spirits.
Morgan has now been distilling for over ten years, and is known for her experimental methods and focus on botanical-based spirits and fruit distillates, having distilled everything from cantaloupes into eau-de-vie, to terroir-driven gins. Her passion for plants extends to personal care, where she combines her expertise in botanicals and spirits to formulate hand sanitizer and other natural body care products, from soaps to hand lotions.
This unique culmination of professional experiences coupled with Morgan’s sincere interest in plants led her to build AMASS into a line of modern, botanically-driven products that defy category.
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Why You Need to Take Planning Your Roadmap Seriously (and How to Do It Efficiently)
It shouldn't be about "how" you're going to get there but more about "why" you want to get there.
Photo: Color Joy Stock
A key challenge for small businesses is to come up with a practical roadmap and maintain focus. When you're just starting, it's easy to get excited about business ideas and try a few different things without needing an actual roadmap, but how do you keep moving the needle, enabling fast decisions, stay profitable or grow the company when there's always too much to do without having enough time to do choose what to do?
When I started my tech career, I gained instant access to how technology companies in silicon valley planned their roadmaps. I was fascinated by how much effort went into planning and making every part of the puzzle align with the company's big mission. As I grew my tech career and sought new challenges, I became a product manager at Uber Headquarters in San Francisco during the company's high-growth stage. In that role, I led the product efforts that solved core user problems and owned product roadmaps for features that were used by millions of users across the world.
I didn't know this critical role at a billion-dollar company would be the best learning experience for my journey as an entrepreneur. Since leaving Uber, I have utilized all of that experience to launch my own products and turning them into big successes.
Roadmap planning has now become one of my favorite day-to-day conversations with other entrepreneurs, especially early-stage or early-growth companies. I know how easy it is to make roadmap planning way too complicated and potentially squeeze the fun of having a business or your company's potential for significant results. No one wants that.
Here’s why you need to take planning your roadmap seriously and how to do it efficiently.
Tip #1: Gain Roadmap Clarity
To me, roadmap clarity is about having a well-thought-out vision, strategy, articulation of key metrics, and how you're going to move them. Roadmap clarity also makes it very easy to say "no" to stuff, which is as important as saying "yes" to things. As entrepreneurs, we might feel like we can do anything, but we certainly can't do everything, at least not all at the same time.
Tip #2: Consider Quarterly Roadmap Planning vs. Yearly Planning
I know yearly planning gets a lot of attention, especially during the last quarter of the year or in January, but I highly recommend prioritizing quarterly planning, especially for early-stage companies or small businesses with less than five people.
A three-month period is not too long, unlike yearly planning, where it's easy to lose focus and for the priorities become irrelevant over time. 3-months is also not too short. The milestones you can achieve in 3-months are meaningful. Quarterly planning also enables failing fast and making pivots easier when things don't go well.
Tip #3: Start With Your Vision
One of your most important jobs as an entrepreneur is to have a hard-to-copy vision that translates into your roadmap. Take a break from all the typical tasks that take up your time and focus on nothing other than your big vision for at least an hour.
Where do you ultimately want your company to be?
What do you want it to look like?
What do you need to accomplish to be drastically closer to where you want to be?
Your vision should both energize you and scare you. It shouldn't be about "how" you're going to get there but more about "why" you want to get there.
Tip #4: Declare Your Numbers
When you (and your team) feel clear about your vision, move on to declaring your numbers! Whether it's your revenue or gross profit or the number of users or another metric you care about, link your big vision to a big, bold metric as your ideal goal. Then celebrate it with your team. The act of declaring a big bold number itself is something worth celebrating.
Tip #5: Get Serious About Your Strategy and Metrics
After you get clear on your vision and communicate it with everyone on the team, you need to define your strategy, tactics, and metrics for each one of your primary initiatives.
I suggest creating a "one-pager" that fits in a one-page google doc, one slide, or a piece of paper. The one-pager is the foundation for each of your quarterly goals and should always be linked to specific metrics to measure success.
If you or people on your team are not clear on the strategy and metrics for any of these initiatives, that would be a leadership fail you'll need to pay attention to and fix before proceeding any further with your roadmap planning.
Tip #6: Reflect on the Past and Decide on Your Non-Negotiables
No planning will be complete without reflecting on what worked/didn't work in the past quarter, six months, or year and setting new intentions.
This reflection needs to be brutally honest to be effective.
What did you hate doing inside your business last year?
What made your business flow intuitively?
What felt forced and didn't align with your overall vision?
What are you willing to invest more time in to have a wildly successful year?
What excuses are you making as a team to avoid trying something new but uncomfortable?
What metrics do you need to get more serious about?
What hypotheses do you need to experiment with that you neglected during the last cycle?
So much of what has already happened inside your business (the good, the bad, and the ugly) influences how you'll operate in the future. So get honest, ask questions, and adjust your roadmap accordingly.
Tip #7: Break the Planning into Three Different Phases
Effective planning should start with the "What," then discuss the "How," and end with putting things on the calendar.
I find companies get too obsessed with "how to build something" and "how to market what we built" instead of focusing on the “what should we build?”. The “what” question needs to happen before figuring out the “how”.
The "what" question should feel challenging and uncomfortable. It should make you (and your team if you're not a solo entrepreneur) question the decisions you've made in the past. Your "what" can be driven by your bigger why, your mission, and/or your gut feeling but it should also be measured and validated by market research and quantitative metrics.
When you become clear on your what, proceed to spend enough time on the "how" and practical milestones with deadlines. Don't call your planning "done" until you've taken care of all these three steps.
How long should an efficient roadmap planning take?
Depending on the size of your company, you may need to spend a few hours to multiple days planning your roadmap. The length also depends on how many business or product goals you're setting and whether you plan your quarter or a more extended time. Keep your planning as short and practical as you can but make sure you walk away knowing exactly what your priorities are for the next couple of months. And remember, if you have too many priorities, you can't call all of them priorities.
If you have a large team, you might find yourself struggling with who to involve and not involve in your roadmap planning. But too many people in the room can prevent you from having fast-paced discussions. Avoid including every single person in every single meeting just for the sake of team transparency. There are better ways to practice transparency than involving everyone in everything. Be selective about planning meetings and try to break the planning into multiple conversations with fewer people involved.
What about solo entrepreneurs?
Planning as a solopreneur can feel lonely, but it doesn't have to. I've been personally there, and I relate to the resistance you might feel about dedicating time to proper planning when you’re doing it alone. It might feel like a waste of time to go through detailed planning without a team, but it's really the opposite. When you're just starting, you literally can't afford to waste time and energy on stuff that doesn't move the needle, and having a crystal clear roadmap will help you prevent that.
To make your roadmap planning feel less lonely, plan with someone who knows your business well, or someone who knows you well. Whether it's your virtual assistant ( if you have one), a trusted colleague or even your significant other or best friend, present your roadmap to them and ask for feedback.
Keep in mind that if you plan with someone who's not experienced enough, you might have to be a little skeptical about their suggestions. This, however, doesn't make their feedback invalid. They might actually surprise you with their unique ideas or the amount of excitement you can get out of simply presenting your ideas to someone who cares about your company's success or you as an entrepreneur.
What does success looks like?
A good roadmap planning should feel like a drama movie with a happy ending. There should be ups and downs, disagreements, confronting conversations, and debates with eventual resolution.
Your job is to stay focused on your critical goals through all of it.
As a leader, you need a mix of innovative ideas (example: an idea for doubling your revenue with only 20% increase of resources), optimism (for what you and your team are capable of achieving with the right mindset and focus), and healthy skepticism (to question every single priority).
Encourage everyone involved to prepare for the planning and stay highly engaged. You don't need to go over every single detail; focus on the things that matter.
Find your perfect balance, and don't be scared of taking some risk to enjoy a higher reward potential. One way to do so is to dedicate 10% of your team's time (or your own time as a solopreneur) to a "big bold bet" every quarter.
On the flip side, ineffective roadmap planning doesn't give clarity on the "what" and "how", doesn't focus enough on metrics and data, and involves too many people with not enough contribution.
Don't spend your time creating fancy slides or showing off your organization skills. Be organized enough to function but not too organized to make your planning about how nice everything looks.
Your job as a leader is to constantly think about "what will customers think" rather than "what my family/peers/mentors/competitors think". Whether you run a 7-figures consulting company, sell digital courses, own a local bakery, or are a venture-backed tech startup, obsess over the needs of who's using what you're creating and who's paying for what you're creating over everything else. Sometimes these two are the same, and sometimes they're not -- but what you need to keep reminding yourself of is that the opinion of those who's not a part of your businesses should be the least of your focus.
Encourage everyone who's a part of your planning to participate aggressively during pre-planning, the actual planning, and post-planning conversations. There shouldn't be any room for passive attending because that's a lose-lose situation for everyone.
“It shouldn't be about ‘how’ you're going to get there but more about ‘why’ you want to get there.”
—Aria Massoudifar, Entrepreneur
About the Autor: Aria Massoudifar is a serial entrepreneur and product manager in tech mostly known for her role as a former product manager at Uber. Aria’s portfolio of her businesses and projects are: Her work as an online educator, course creator, and mentor is followed by thousands of people globally. She uses her platform to empower her 100k+ community all around the world. She is the founder of a newly launched health and wellness app Vito to help busy millennials take charge of their health. She is the owner of a popular mid-century vacation rental and photoshoot house in the heart of Joshua Tree. Aria is a multi-hyphenate and passionate entrepreneur who refuses to limit her pursuits and inspires others to celebrate and pursue all of their passions too! Connect with Aria on Instagram @ariamsfar.
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10 Empowering Books By Women to Enhance Your Career (and Life)
Your to-read pile = sorted.
Photo: Kaboompics .com for Pexels
Achieving your career goals, trying to be a successful adult, and keeping your personal life in check can sometimes feel impossible. (If you’re juggling a million tasks and still trying to find time to watch The Bachelor with the girls, trust us, we know the struggle). But no matter how often you may feel overwhelmed, it’s important to know that you can find the balance you’re looking for—it may just take a new way of thinking and organizing your everyday life.
Luckily, there are resources and mentors with proven methods and insights that will help you find the balance between living your best life and getting to work on time. No one ever said achieving work-life balance would be easy, but with these 10 insightful new books, you will be well on your way to reaching both your professional and personal goals in no time. Written by 10 fierce females who know a thing or two about running their own businesses and carving out time for themselves, you’ll find true wisdom and hope in the pages of these self-help and business-focused books.
From the creator of one of the biggest natural hygiene companies to Netflix sensation Marie Kondo to a single mother from the Middle East who rose to the top of the tech industry, these books will leave you with anecdotes that will help you find the work-life balance you’ve been craving. If you want to find the perfect work-life balance, add these insightful books to your to-read pile ASAP.
Supermaker: Crafting Business On Your Own Terms
by Jaime Schmidt
Once upon a time, Jaime Schmidt was pregnant and making natural deodorant products in her kitchen in Portland, Oregon. In just seven years, Schmidt had made a name for herself and sold the company to Unilever for nine figures. In her inspiring and insightful book, Supermaker, Schmidt reveals how aspiring entrepreneurs can start their own businesses on their own terms. With tips on marketing, product development and other useful tools, this book gives readers the inside look at what it takes to be successful as a founder and as a woman.
The Upside of Being Down: How Mental Health Struggles Led to My Greatest Successes In Work and Life
by Jen Gotch
Jen Gotch is the CCO and creator of multimillion-dollar brand, Ban.do, but what many people don’t know is that Gotch didn’t always have the easiest time finding success. Struggling with her mental health from a young age, she was determined to understand how her diagnosis could help boost her creative process. In The Upside of Being Down, Gotch shares candid stories about her failures and successes and how to embrace the parts of life you can’t control.
Slay Like a Mother: How to Destroy What’s Holding You Back So You Can Live the Life You Want b
y Katherine Wintsch
Katherine Wintsch is no stranger to the difficulties of wearing multiple hats in both her professional and personal life. In her debut self-help book, Wintsch uncovers what it takes to be a mother, wife, friend, and successful CEO. Slay Like a Mother teaches readers how to get past the “just fine” mask women often wear, set realistic goals that you can actually achieve and realize the difference between struggling and suffering. If you’re a fan of Rachel Hollis, you’ll love this new release.
It’s About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage
by Arlan Hamilton and Rachel L. Nelson
Despite being homeless and underestimated, Arlan Hamilton always dreamed of success. Without any contacts, a college degree or a background in finance, Hamilton used her determination and strength to become a highly-respected investor in Silicon Valley, investing in businesses founded by underrepresented women like herself. In It’s About Damn Time, Hamilton teaches women the importance of believing in yourself, how to create a life you love and the skills you need to make it big when it feels like no one else has faith in your dreams.
Four Faces of Femininity: Heroic Women Throughout History
by Barbara McNally
If you’re in need of a little inspiration from the women who have come before, you’ll love Four Faces of Femininity. Divided into four sections, McNally’s new book celebrates all kinds of successful women and shows readers how important it is to spotlight women from different backgrounds. From Anne Frank to Michelle Obama, this book aims to help women become well-rounded and happy in all areas of their lives. Four Faces of Femininity also includes exercises that will help readers unlock their power and invest in their goals.
Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies: And Other Rituals to Fix Your Life, From Someone Who’s Been There
by Tara Schuster
As a twenty-something-year-old, Tara Schuster found herself at the top of her career as the vice president at Comedy Central. But what nobody knew was that Tara was struggling to keep the rest of her life together. Finally, one drunken night, Tara called her therapist, desperate for help, making her realize that she needed to make immediate changes to her life. Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies follows Tara’s journey to transforming her entire being and re-evaluating her priorities. This new self-help book strives to help others create a successful life they truly love.
Success from the Inside Out: Power to Rise from the Past to a Fulfilling Future
by Nona Jones
Finding success in her career at only 23, Nona Jones was convinced that she had everything all figured out. But soon, trauma from her past came back to haunt her and it wasn’t long before she realized that she was using her work to cover up her pain and suffering. Using anecdotes from her own journey, Jones aims to help other career women take back their lives by embracing their fears, banishing their tragic pasts and finding their own fulfilling success in Success from the Inside Out.
You Can Have It All, Just Not at the Same Damn Time
by Romi Neustadt
Romi Neustadt is a big believer in being able to do it all. The author, speaker, entrepreneur and life coach has had plenty of experience over the years tending to her career and her family, and in You Can Have It All, Just Not at the Same Damn Time, she teaches readers how they can achieve the same success. With lessons on focusing on the things that matter, recognizing your worth, and creating healthy habits, this book will have you nailing work-life balance like a pro.
Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life
by Marie Kondo and Scott Sonenshein
Marie Kondo is the queen of cutting out the clutter and making room for further success and happiness and in her new book, Joy at Work, she applies her innovative tips and tricks to the workplace. Work can be draining but there are simple ways to make the days better and focus your energy on the things that matter. Teaming up with Rice University business professor Scott Sonenshein, Kondo teaches readers how to declutter their work space, be better organized and make every second count so you can feel more accomplished and happy by the time you head home.
Girl Decoded: A Scientist’s Quest to Reclaim Our Humanity by Bringing Emotional Intelligence to Technology
by Rana el Kaliouby
Growing up in a traditional family in the Middle East, Rana el Kaliouby never expected to find the success she now has. Moving away from her home country, she earned her PhD and moved to America as a single mother of two girls. Aiming to humanize technology, her intelligence, and ability to juggle her responsibilities made her a leading figure in an industry mostly made up of white males. In Girl Decoded, Rana tells her inspiring story and encourages women to go after their wildest dreams and forget about the labels and expectations forced upon them by others.
Written by Ashley Johnson, content editor, She Reads.
About the Author:
Ashley Johnson is the content editor at She Reads, an online media outlet that specializes in promoting books and authors with a female-centric approach. In addition to editorial roundups, exclusive author content and thought pieces, She Reads is committed to building a community of readers who love nothing more than getting lost in a good book.
Up next: Gwyneth Paltrow, Marie Kondo, Tyra Banks, and More on the #1 Book They Always Recommend
This story was originally published on March 13, 2019, and has since been updated.
Daphne Oz Shares Her #1 Tip for Cultivating Confidence
The Emmy award-winning TV host, bestselling author, and chef dishes out career advice.
“Set yourself up for success. Don't be afraid to prepare, and talk nicely to yourself.”
-Daphne Oz, Emmy Award-Winning TV Host, Bestselling Author, Chef, and Aveeno Hair Celebrity Brand Ambassador
Daphne Oz has been dishing out healthy living tips since she was a student at Princeton and writing her first book, “The Dorm Room Diet,” which brought wholesome eating to college campuses everywhere.
Fast-forward to 2020 and she’s penned three bestselling cookbooks, won an Emmy, hosted hit television shows by the likes of “The Chew” and "Dish on Oz", and served as a “MasterChef Junior” judge.
But that’s just her day job.
As a mother of four, she’s proven that you can have a very successful career and be a present mother, but as she’d say, “the difference between doing it all and having it all is a perspective shift.”
At our Future You Festival, Jaclyn Johnson virtually down with Oz to talk about what it took to build her impressive career, how she’s avoiding burnout as a working mom, and why she’s wielding her influence for good.
On cultivating confidence…
“Confidence stems from ease. It’s when you feel easy in your skin.”
"I feel the most confident when I feel like I'm sharing valuable information that's going to make a positive impact on someone's life."
On putting in the work to build confidence…
“You think ease is easy, it's not. Ease takes work. It takes practice. It takes effort and it’s being prepared.”
“Confidence isn't a destination. Every day you have to pay the dues and catch yourself if you're engaging in negative self-talk."
On avoiding negative self-talk…
"The world sees you and talks to you the way you see and talk to yourself. You have to live it first."
On navigating negativity on social media…
"You should never take with more than a grain of salt anyone's opinion or perspective who's opinion or perspective you wouldn't value in real life."
"You're not going to make everyone happy, and if you do make everyone happy, it's at the expense of you living your whole life fully."
On being a working mom during COVID…
“I would never lie and say that I’ve figured it out because the reality is it's recalibration all the time. There are days where I'm an A-grade mother and a B-grade employee and C-grade wife.”
On making time for self-care…
“It's all too easy for us to work ourselves into depletion and I think it can be something as simple as 10 minutes of listening to a podcast or doing a face mask or a 10-minute workout routine."
On continuing to grow…
“I never feel like I've stopped growing like there isn't a chance I could pivot and try something totally new.”
On finding your passion and being on the field…
"My dad used to say to me, You can't catch the ball if you're not standing on the field."
“If you don't have the skillset, if you haven't been keeping yourself prepared, if you haven't been keeping your eyes open and your eyes on the ball, you're never going to catch it when it's flying through the air.”
On pursuing multiple interests…
"You're allowed to be a multi-hyphenate, you're allowed to change your idea of who you are, and you're making a commitment to be as great as possible for now.”
On making tasks more manageable…
“You can only do what you can do. I think it's a matter of making it bite-sized and making it something that you feel you can tackle."
On her #1 tip for cultivating confidence…
“Set yourself up for success. Don't be afraid to prepare, and talk nicely to yourself.”
Psst… If you’re having serious FOMO, join Create & Cultivate Insiders to get unlimited access to all of our Future You Festival content including video recordings of every panel and workshop download in C&C history.
MORE ON THE BLOG
How the Create & Cultivate Team Is Putting Financial Resolutions First in the New Year
This year didn’t turn out the way many of us had planned. The good news is: 2021 is the fresh start we’ve been looking for.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
This year didn’t turn out the way many of us had planned. It feels like our 2020 resolutions have been put on hold, while we wrestle with how to reconcile our personal, professional, and financial goals for the new year. The good news is: 2021 is the fresh start we’ve been looking for.
The promise of new beginnings not only lends a much-needed dose of optimism relative to the rhetoric of this past year, but it also helps propel us back into a goal-setting state of mind. A recent survey reveals an estimated 188.9 million adult Americans (74.02% of the population) are determined to learn something new, make a lifestyle change or set a personal goal in an effort to better themselves in 2021, a 15.17% increase from 2019. Furthermore, 33.69% of Americans plan to set a money-related goal. That being said, now is the perfect time to begin planning your financial resolutions for the year ahead, and we’ve partnered with Betterment to help you spend, save, and invest your money better.
2020 has challenged many of us to rethink our values and global impact, particularly when it comes to spending. The way we live, the career we choose, and the people we care about align with our personal values; shouldn’t our investments do the same?
The practice of aligning your investments with the values and social ideals that shape your worldview is known as impact investing, or socially responsible investing (SRI). Betterment defines SRI as “an approach to investing that reduces exposure to companies that are deemed to have a negative social impact—e.g., companies that profit from poor labor standards or environmental devastation—while increasing exposure to companies that are deemed to have a positive social impact—e.g., companies that foster inclusive workplaces or commit to environmentally sustainable practices.” With Betterment's Social Impact Portfolio, you can invest globally in companies that align with what you care about most, without sacrificing portfolio performance.
How we spend and invest our money has the potential to change the world. And while the road to radical change much resembles the stock market – unpredictable, long, and not always forward – the future of our world begins with how you choose to invest for better, starting today.
Read on to hear how three members of the Create & Cultivate team are putting financial resolutions first in the New Year.
I hope to adapt an approach to investing that supports our community and our planet, utilizing one of Betterment’s SRI portfolios that focuses within the realm of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. Betterment's Social Impact Portfolio invests in ETFs that support minority empowerment and gender diversity, and is committed to offering investment funds that do better for our communities and the planet.
In order to pay off some outstanding debt, I plan to limit the amount of "stuff" I accumulate and bring into my home and be more conscious of my spending habits – which includes putting a limit on the amount of nights I order takeout.
My husband and I have a goal of owning our own home in 2022 and are working to pay off our debt in 2021 as well as save up for the down payment. We’ll be sticking to a stricter budget and doing things like making more meals at home versus ordering take out. We also plan to start a new savings account set up for this, specifically, with a monthly goal number to hit for savings.
The above article is sponsored by Betterment. Any links provided to other websites are offered as a matter of convenience and are not intended to imply that Betterment or its authors endorse, sponsor, promote, and/or are affiliated with the owners of or participants in those sites, or endorses any information contained on those sites, unless expressly stated otherwise.