20. How a Mother’s Love and Determination Accidentally Launched a Clean Skincare Brand: Jennifer Archie

Jennifer Archie is a Los Angeles native. After graduating from Howard University with a microbiology degree and venturing into the study of mold, she ended up working in her father’s business for 15 years. Itching to do something new, she took a position with a non-profit for a year, and later tried her hand at her own business, but things were not going according to plan. While on the journey to figure out what was next for her professional future, her daughter, June, was experiencing dry scaly skin and a mild case of eczema when she was a baby. Jennifer spent a lot of time and money searching for a product to relieve her discomfort. After steroid prescriptions and numerous over-the-counter products, she decided to make her body butter. She started with the basics. As she researched and learned about other types of butter and essential oils, she began to develop a butter that the whole family could benefit from. Friends started asking for a jar of the healing concoction and insisted on paying when Jennifer would offer it up for free. One order after another poured in and a business was born. Looking once again to her daughter for inspiration, this time for a brand name, she recalled June saying “I love my...Butta!” And so, Junie Bees Butta was born.  In this episode, Nada sits down with Jennifer to discuss how each experience in life leads to the next. Even those detours prove to be meaningful. At a time when Jennifer was giving up on one entrepreneurial venture, another opportunity appeared. Through hard work and with the support of a small and intentional community of like-minded women, Ms. Archie saw her company soar. The interview will leave you wondering if your next opportunity is right in front of you. It also offers a freeing perspective as Jennifer so wisely says, “there is no boat to miss.” For all your butta needs check out Junie Bees Butta’s website. And follow on Instagram: @juniebeesbutta Please follow us at @thisislibertyroad on Instagram--that's where we hang out the most. And please rate and review us —it helps to know if this podcast is inspiring and equipping you to launch and grow your ventures.