It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin

Hi! This Season we are dialed into becoming the best version of ourselves. This episode is about maxing out on spiritually seriousness. I reflect on struggles with self-worth, especially around dating, partnership, and a growing desire to have a child. Self-love is the core work that is making my life easier. After a dark 90 days, feeling disconnected and weary I decide to take a trip to Hawaii to surf. We also talk about hobbies, making good friends who remind you to be hot and how my self talk got better with this affirmation I have you do with me. Repeat after me...“I am amazing.”00:00 Welcome and Season Theme00:29 Spiritual Identity Defined01:54 Self Love and Worth04:30 Love Partnership Desires06:40 Too Spiritual Not Grounded12:08 Experiences Over Things14:20 Booking Hawaii Reset16:13 Hobbies and Joy Return18:49 Friends and Self Talk20:51 Affirmation Practice22:19 Hawaii Surfing Outro23:18 Newsletter and FarewellConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com

Devi Brown, a leading voice in wellness and spiritual growth and one of the most sought-after wellness educators blending meditation, breathwork, metaphysical philosophy, and spiritual psychology to guide artists, athletes, and executives toward holistic healing, joins us to explore what it truly means to care for yourself in a world that constantly pulls you out of your center. Devi shares how her work in meditation, breathwork, and spiritual psychology has shaped a deeply personal and transformative approach to healing, one that goes far beyond surface-level self-care.She opens up about why anxiety is a natural response to the times we’re living in, how self-care evolves into a daily, embodied practice, and the importance of learning how to be with yourself through every season of life. She also speaks on the difference between the culturally conditioned self and the authentic self, what it really means to feel “called” to help others, and why healing is a lifelong journey, not a destination.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Meet Debbie Brown01:14 Why Self-Care Matters03:55 Centering as a Practice05:55 Working With Anxiety10:47 Slow Reading Into Wisdom15:22 Healing vs. Healer22:18 Cultural vs. Authentic Self26:47 Beauty as Healing35:31 Claiming Your Whole Self36:51 Beauty as Service37:24 Navigating Identity Shifts46:49 Two-Year Becoming Cycle49:10 Fear and Self-Regulation56:43 Boundaries Take Practice01:01:13 It Takes a Village01:08:07 Purpose and Final BlessingLearn more about Devi Brown:Devi Brown is a wellness educator, author, and creative advisor known for her integrative approach to healing that blends meditation, breathwork, and spiritual psychology. Her work is rooted in trauma-informed facilitation and draws from both her lived experience and multidisciplinary studies.She previously served as Chief Impact Officer at Chopra Global and is now the founder of her own platform focused on holistic wellbeing. Devi is also the host of the Deeply Well podcast and the author of Crystal Bliss and Living in Wisdom, offering guidance on self-awareness, healing, and personal transformation. She also serves on the board of the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies.Listen to Devi’s podcast Deeply Well Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3n5hEIVLquNRPipeKTFJOi Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeply-well-with-devi-brown/id1458578448 Check out her book Living in Wisdom: A Path to Embodying Your Authentic Self, Embracing Grief, and Developing Self-Mastery here: https://bit.ly/4p3WYKW Connect with Devi:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/devibrown/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DeviBrown/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZpwYaqkP8TVE2UjpKlw9fw LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/devibrown/ Website https://www.devibrown.com/about Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com

This episode is sponsored by Pura x Malala Fund Collection. Shop Now pura.com https://pura.com/pages/malala-fund?srsltid=AfmBOoq5mKy6hkDrhGlbx26HO3GgrN68ZY8QkJWZWECUwa-lHjVBvb-lI reflect on a re-energizing week in New York City and the emotional clarity that came from returning with fresh eyes. I talk about the energetic difference I feel between Brooklyn and Manhattan, then revisit the deeper purpose of It Takes A Village and season five’s focus on becoming the best version of yourself through honesty, healing, and community.I explore the complicated nature of gratitude and explain why I don’t believe true gratitude can be forced. Sometimes gratitude exists alongside grief, anger, uncertainty, and sadness. Inspired by a conversation with my friend Denise Sanchez, @theguidedself . I share a “rage on a page” practice and how allowing myself to fully feel anger became an unexpected doorway into peace and emotional release.I also recap attending Texture On Set and The Makeup Show/iArtist, sharing how surreal it felt to teach on stage in New York and realize I no longer feel attached to external validation or career ego, even while the Met Gala was happening simultaneously across the city. A meaningful conversation with James Vincent became a full-circle moment that reflected just how much my relationship to success, ambition, and self-worth has evolved.Throughout the episode, I open up about grieving a recent relationship while simultaneously feeling deep gratitude for my life, health, friendships, and spiritual growth. I reflect on learning to hold duality of understanding that sadness, joy, anger, hope, and gratitude can all exist at the same time , and close with a heartfelt prayer of thanks. I am hosting a free May 24th meditation and connection event in Los Angeles for listeners subscribed to my newsletter. Subscribe by visiting www.delinamedhin.com.00:00 Pura Malala Intro00:17 Welcome Back Village01:28 Why Gratitude Is Hard02:52 Rage on a Page04:05 NYC Events Recap07:42 Full Circle on Stage11:32 Ego Dissolving Lessons12:52 Pura Malala Ad Break13:29 Choosing Presence and Gratitude15:19 Not Knowing the Future18:25 Wellness and Daily Practice19:02 Grieving a Relationship22:20 Holding Duality Together24:38 Prayer of Thanks26:47 Closing and LA Event InviteConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com

Mara Dumski, Chief Fragrance Experience Officer at Pura and former executive at International Flavors & Fragrances, joins us to talk all about building a career at the intersection of art, science, and emotion. With over 25 years at International Flavors & Fragrances, Mara shares how her background as a classically trained soprano shaped the way she understands scent and how she learned to “smell with her musical ear” while working alongside some of the world’s most legendary perfumers.She opens up about her unexpected leap from New York City to Utah to join Pura, a then-early-stage tech startup, and how she helped build a fragrance house inside a technology company from the ground up. From translating fine fragrance into air to redefining how we experience scent in our homes, Mara breaks down the artistry, innovation, and risk-taking behind creating immersive, emotionally-driven fragrance experiences.Mara also shares the deeper meaning behind scent—how it connects to memory, mood, and identity and why your home deserves the same level of intention as the fragrance you wear. She also takes us inside Pura’s most meaningful collaborations, including their work with the Malala Fund, where fragrance is used to tell stories of girls around the world fighting for access to education.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Introduction03:45 Music to Perfumery06:26 Leaving IFF for Pura08:03 Founders Pitch and Vision11:09 Leap of Faith to Utah14:20 Nose vs Scent Designer15:43 Designing for Air Diffusion17:29 Favorite Scents and Collabs19:40 Building a Fragrance House24:03 Day to Day and Innovation26:50 Why Home Scent Matters28:18 Scenting Your Space28:50 App Schedules and Controls31:00 From Music to Fragrance33:01 Fragrance Pyramid Basics35:00 Formulating for Diffusers37:58 Clean Safety Standards39:54 Malala Fund Scents46:40 Why Pura Inspires48:43 Car Scent Breakthrough51:42 Mentors and GratitudeLearn more about Mara Dumski:Mara Dumski is the Chief Fragrance Experience Officer at Pura, where she leads the creative direction of scent development and experience design. Before joining Pura, she spent over two decades at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), one of the world’s most influential fragrance houses.With a background in classical voice from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, Mara brings a unique perspective to fragrance, blending music, emotion, and storytelling to create scents that enhance how people experience everyday life.Connect with MaraInstagram https://www.instagram.com/maradwest/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-dumski-5231512a Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com

What is your relationship with exercise? Let me know below.During the pandemic I changed my relationship with exercise. I also introduced you to the trainer who stregthened that relationship who was on Ep.29 Tiara Howard, How Can I be happy in my body.This episode youre listening to is talking about the deep effect of Exercise. It has contributed to healing my depression and has been a natural way to produce Serotonin and Dopamine in the body. Be kind to your body and treat her to a good relationship.00:00 Welcome to Season Five00:26 Exercise for Feel Good Chemicals01:36 Simple Workout Mindset02:15 Exercise as Self Love03:29 Habits and Morning Routine Reset06:08 Workout and Mental Health08:17 Community Vibration and Body Care09:10 Family Culture and Fitness Legacy11:57 Self Regulation Without Substances12:43 Final Thoughts and NewsletterConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

I reflect on gratitude, community, and perspective while sharing a recent experience at a spiritual party. We also do a brief meditation together and I tell a personal story about a cracked tooth.Timestamps0:00 — Intro & Season 5 Theme0:48 — The Power of Giving1:00 — Moving to LA & Finding Community2:14 — The Spiritual Party4:12 — Reflections on Community & Energy5:06 — Guided Meditation6:47 — Gratitude Brings You into the Present7:51 — The Cracked Tooth Story10:19 — The Universe Responds11:24 — The Reframe12:40 — Call to Action: Reframe This WeekConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠⁠

Sign up for my newsletter to find out the location of the LA Meetup -> www. ittakesavillagepod.comIn the first video solo episode, I’m opening Season 5 of It Takes a Village with the first video-recorded solo episode of the season. I'm reflecting on how this show has evolved, from recording on Zoom in the early days, to interviewing beauty founders in New York, to now stepping into a more produced format while still holding onto what has always mattered most to me: community.I talk about what the last two years have looked like since moving from New York to Los Angeles, and how that transition impacted me in ways I didn’t expect. My style changed, my brand alignments shifted, and I found myself in a period where I wasn’t building or holding community in the way I once did. It took time, but I finally feel settled, grounded, and ready to create again in a more intentional way.This episode is really about returning to that original intention of building a village, but doing it in a way that reflects who I am today. I share my plans to start hosting in-person gatherings here in LA, something simple like a hike or a beach walk, followed by conversation, connection, and support. A space where we can meet each other in real life and remember that we’re not meant to do any of this alone.I also open the door for those of you who aren’t in Los Angeles. If you’re interested in an online version of this kind of community, I want to hear from you. And beyond that, I encourage you to create your own. Community doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start small. What matters is the intention to connect.This conversation is also about loneliness, and the reality that so many of us are feeling it in different ways right now. My hope is that this season, and these gatherings, become a reminder that connection is still available to us, and that we have the power to create it.If you want to stay close to everything I’m building this year, sign up for the newsletter at ittakesavillagepod.com. That’s where I’ll be sharing details about upcoming meetups and ways to be part of this next chapter.I’m so grateful you’re here, and I’m really excited for what we’re building together.Timestamps00:00 Welcome to Season Five00:54 How the Show Has Evolved02:38 Moving to LA Changed Me04:12 Making Space for Community Again05:00 Planning In-Person Meetups in LA07:19 Opening the Door for Online Community08:37 Why In-Person Connection Matters Right Now09:51 Start Your Own Community11:00 Loneliness and Taking Small Steps11:43 Closing + NewsletterConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠⁠⁠⁠Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠

In this episode, I’m back to sharing how the show has evolved. What started as an exploration of the “who” and “how” behind building a village has shifted into a deeper question: who are you, and how are you building yourself up?I talk about why I’ve been recording more audio episodes lately, and I introduce the idea of “energetic weather.” I’ve been noticing how we often sync emotionally with the people around us, especially when we’re operating at similar vibrations.Drawing from six years of interviewing major beauty founders, along with my own experience creating beauty content, I reflect on what actually creates peace and success. For me, it’s not about personas. It’s about self-work, self-love, and true alignment.In this episode, I invite you to choose what genuinely brings you joy, to have faith in your future, and to practice speaking to yourself with kindness. I really believe that when you’re in alignment, you attract the right people, and the “how” starts to feel a lot easier.If this resonates, share the episode with someone who needs it, and join my newsletter to stay connected for upcoming LA events.Newsletter sign up -> www.ittakesavillagepod.com00:00 Welcome to Season Five01:23 Energetic Weather Check02:24 Vibration and Your Circle03:33 Why This Show Exists04:44 Success Needs Self Work06:21 My Content Misalignment08:41 Creators and Purpose10:25 Fear of Leaving the Old13:50 Faith and Future Vision14:42 Guided Affirmations16:32 Raise Your Vibration Daily18:49 Kindness and Connection19:40 Share and Live Events20:30 Closing GoodbyeConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠Threads ⁠⁠⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠⁠⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠⁠⁠Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠

In this episode of It Takes a Village, I reflect on how friendships shape our mindset and ultimately our lives. I share a lesson that stayed with me from a young age: that your outcomes are often a reflection of the people you spend the most time with and how I’ve seen that in my life in college with my grades and now with my energy.I open up about a recent experience where I found myself around someone with very fear-based thinking. I call that person “Chicken Little”. You remember that story book that spoke about the sky falling. It's an energy type. It's an archetype. Despite years of practicing intentional self-talk, I noticed how spending time with a chicken little also began to influence my own thoughts. That experience led me to make a difficult but necessary decision to step away from a relationship that wasn’t aligned with the energy I want to live in.This conversation is really about choosing yourself. Choosing friendships, partners, and environments that pour into you, uplift you, and support the version of you you’re becoming. I also connect this to the idea of “soul corrections”. I've been learning Kabbalah and it's teachings have found a way organically in the my life and I find it gives me so much comfort that I wanted to share. This week's exercise: Take five minutes to sit in silence and speak to yourself with love, intention, and affirmation. Tell yourself kind things. "I love you. I am proud of you." Even if you hear the negative self talk ignore it and keep going. I love you...see you next week.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome Back Villagers00:34 College Lesson on Friends03:24 Beyond Grades to Life03:59 Chicken Little Energy08:21 Choosing Your Vibration10:02 Soul Corrections and Flow12:06 Five Minutes of Self Love13:38 Love Shifts Everything14:34 Share and See You NextBook I mention: What to Say When You Talk to Yourself  by Shad Helmstetter. This is the link to purchase.(⁠https://bit.ly/4uhYeN2)⁠.Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠⁠Threads ⁠⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠⁠Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠⁠

In this solo episode, I’m opening Season 5 of It Takes a Village by talking about self-development, alignment, and the deeper work of becoming the person you know you’re meant to be. This season is different. I wanted to focus on us and how we can be a better villager by giving to ourselves. I also revisit one of the most powerful mindset shifts I ever experienced after reading the book What to Say When You Talk to Yourself  by Shad Helmstetter. This is the link to purchase.(https://bit.ly/4uhYeN2). I talk about how the quiet dialogue we have with ourselves is constantly programming our minds, and how small phrases like “I’m bad with names” or “I always mess things up” can quietly shape the reality we live in. Changing the way we speak to ourselves can completely transform the way we experience life.This episode also explores faith, certainty, and the energetic state we bring into our lives and work. I share why I believe that many successful entrepreneurs still feel deeply unhappy when their success isn’t rooted in something spiritual, and how developing a relationship with God, the universe, or whatever you believe in can create a deeper sense of peace and alignment.We also talk about the difference between operating from need versus certainty, and how the energy of needing something often pushes it further away. I explain why the most successful people often seem to attract more opportunities, and how generosity, gratitude, and openness create the conditions for growth.Finally, I guide you through a powerful exercise that I’ll be doing myself: imagining that you’re being interviewed on a podcast in the future after everything you’re dreaming about has already happened. By answering questions as your future self, you begin to step into the vibration of the person you’re becoming today.This conversation is about remembering that you already have more power than you think you do. If you’re in a moment of transition, uncertainty, or growth, this episode is an invitation to reconnect with your vision, your faith, and your own inner voice.10 Questions to Ask Your Future SelfWhen you look back at that period of your life, what was really happening beneath the surface?What did you have to let go of in order to become the person you are today?At the time it felt painful — but what was that experience actually preparing you for?What was the exact moment you realized your life was changing for the better?What did you learn about love, partnership, and self-respect during that time?What habits or daily practices ended up transforming everything for you?What surprised you most about your own strength?What did you stop tolerating that you used to accept?What advice would you give to the version of you who was sitting in uncertainty back then?Now that you’re on the other side of it all, what are you most grateful happened exactly the way it did?Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to Season Five00:28 What This Show Is01:38 Defining Success Differently02:32 Reprogram Your Self Talk04:29 Faith and Vibration07:49 Certainty and Alignment09:38 Neediness vs Attraction12:36 Future Self Mirror Exercise15:14 Podcast Questions Prompt19:31 Money Mood Trap21:35 Entrepreneur Encouragement22:42 Community and Next StepsConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin⁠  TikTok ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin⁠  ⁠YouTube ⁠https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin⁠  Threads ⁠http://threads.net/@delinamedhin⁠   Website ⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠ Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: ⁠https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook⁠  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: ⁠http://www.delinamedhin.com⁠ 

In this solo episode, I’m closing out the year by reflecting on commitment, balance, and what it really looks like to come home to yourself. This is the final recording of the season, and it felt important to pause, zoom out, and share what has shifted in me over the past year, personally, physically and energetically. I talk about how stability has quietly entered my life, from feeling more grounded in relationships to waking up naturally without an alarm, and how my sabbatical created a clear ‘before and after” version of who I am. I share why I no longer see beauty as something that lives only on the outside, and how my relationship with makeup, wellness, and identity has evolved into something much deeper and more holistic. This episode also dives into one of the biggest lessons of my year: blood sugar regulation. I explain how learning to balance protein, fat, and carbohydrates in every meal transformed my energy, mood, focus, and menstrual health, and why I believe this conversation is especially important for women. What started as curiosity became a full lifestyle shift that helped me move from emotional volatility into a more consistent flow state, without losing my sensitivity or emotional depth.I also open up about self-funding the podcast, scaling back my team, recommitting to the work more intentionally, and what it means to truly stand behind something you’re building, even when it stretches you. I share my gratitude for this community, what it means to be in the top 3% of podcasts on Spotify, and why building a village has never been about numbers, but about resonance.This episode is an invitation to slow down, check in with your body, honor your cycles, and consider what balance might look like for you moving into the next year. If you’ve been craving more stability, clarity, and alignment in how you live and create, this conversation is for you.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections00:52 Commitment and Personal Growth01:56 Embracing Stability and Routine04:04 The Power of Inner and Outer Beauty05:59 Balancing Blood Sugar for Better Health13:04 Podcast Achievements and Future Plans15:11 Conclusion and Looking Forward to 2026Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin   Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m sharing something that’s been sitting on my heart for a while, something I’ve avoided saying out loud because it felt vulnerable, humbling, and honestly… very on-brand for a show called It Takes A Village.The truth is: this show has grown into something bigger than what I can sustain on my own. For years, I’ve been quietly funding ITAV with the money I earn from makeup jobs, pouring every ounce of passion, curiosity, and belief into creating conversations that matter. But creating a show at this level takes real resources, and I’ve finally reached the moment where I can’t do it alone anymore.I talk about what it has meant to build this show from scratch, the behind-the-scenes costs no one sees, and why it took me years to feel comfortable asking for support. I also share the intention behind my Networking Guide, why it exists, what it represents, and how it became both a resource for you and a way for me to keep doing what I love with it takes a village.By buying the Build Your Village Video eBook here, you support our upcoming season. Please consider buying it for yourself or a friend as a gift for the holidays.  https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  I also share today about trust, friendship, support systems, community, and the kind of relationships that hold you together as you evolve. I talk about the friends who have become anchors in my life, the people I’ve outgrown, the energetic shifts that come with healing, and how learning self-love has transformed the way I choose the people around me.This episode is for anyone who’s navigating transition; financially, emotionally, spiritually, and trying to honor what is falling away while making space for what is trying to grow. It’s for those of you building something from the ground up, learning how to ask for help, or redefining what it means to have a village.Thank you for being here. Thank you for caring about the show. And thank you for being part of a community that allows me to keep creating something I truly believe in.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Introduction and Personal Appeal00:10 The Journey of Creating the Show01:03 Crowdfunding and Networking Guide05:56 The Importance of Trust in Relationships08:51 Personal Growth and Friendships15:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin   Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com

In this solo episode, I’m opening up about a part of my life I’ve kept private. I said “I love you” to a man I’ve been dating, and it slipped out. It was one of those moments where your heart speaks faster than your mind, and you hear yourself say the thing you’ve been rehearsing internally for months. And it showed me how much I've softened and how differently I’m choosing to move through love.I talk about why I waited to share this and how much I've changed over the years, prioritizing IQ vs. EQ in dating, how masculine energy shaped my past relationships, and the journey of embracing feminine energy. I share the parts of womanhood I used to resent, including my cycle and the way it slowed me down, and how embracing femininity has changed everything for me including my pace, boundaries, creativity, body, self-love, and finally the type of love I am able to give. This episode is about what it means to love yourself so deeply that loving someone else becomes an extension of that wholeness.If you’re navigating your own becoming, softening, healing, or learning how to love in a way that feels safe, grounded, and aligned,  you’ll find resonance here. This is an intimate look at the woman I’m becoming, the faith guiding me, and the kind of love I pray to embody daily. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always.0:00 Introduction and Personal Update01:16 Show Reminders and Announcements01:44 Dating and Personal Reflections07:08 Embracing Feminine Energy13:56 Self-Love and Personal Growth16:16 Conclusion and Future PlansConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin   Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

Jackie Aina Asamoah, content creator, entrepreneur, and co-founder of FORVR MOOD, joins us today to talk about what it looks like to pivot, evolve, and build something that feels deeply true to who you are becoming. After spending over a decade shaping the beauty industry and advocating for visibility and representation, Jackie reached a moment where she felt called into a new direction. What started as a feeling she couldn’t ignore eventually became FORVR MOOD, now one of the leading fragrance brands in the market. Jackie shares the reality of launching her company in the middle of the pandemic, trusting her vision when nothing was guaranteed, and watching a 45K-person waitlist form almost overnight. She talks about the courage it took to go from influencer to founder and the discipline required to build something with longevity.Jackie also opens up about her childhood and the memories that shaped her love for fragrance. We talk about her advocacy in the beauty industry, why authenticity still matters in a rapidly changing creator landscape, and the mentorship, community, and faith that carried her through every obstacle. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Welcome to 'It Takes a Village'01:04 Meet Jackie Aina06:26 Childhood and Family Dynamics08:25 Pursuing a Career in Beauty12:13 Navigating Success and Personal Growth18:08 Faith and Overcoming Challenges26:10 Family and Cultural Influences30:31 Launching FORVR MOOD33:49 The Candle Boom and Unexpected Success35:55 Navigating Brand Identity and Personal Growth39:13 The Rise of Fragrance Content44:51 Balancing Content Creation and Advocacy56:28 Challenges and Triumphs of Building a Brand01:03:34 Jackie's VillageLearn more about Jackie Aina:Jackie Aina is a trailblazing content creator, entrepreneur, and beauty industry advocate who has spent over 16 years reshaping the way women of color are seen, valued, and catered to in beauty. Known for her sharp wit, honest storytelling, and cultural influence, Jackie built one of the most trusted platforms in the digital beauty space, using her voice to push brands toward deeper inclusivity and accountability.She is the founder and CEO of FORVR Mood, a lifestyle and fragrance brand rooted in luxury, softness, and self-care for Black women. Beyond entrepreneurship, Jackie is recognized as one of the most influential beauty creators of her generation, blending creativity, social commentary, and business strategy in a way that has set new standards across the industry.She continues to evolve the creator-to-founder blueprint, showing what’s possible when Black women build, lead, and take up space unapologetically.Connect with Jackie Aina:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jackieaina/?hl=en TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jackieaina?lang=en YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzJIliq68IHSn-Kwgjeg2AQ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/forvrmood/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@forvrmood Website https://forvrmood.com/ Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin   Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the evolution of my creative process, the shifts, the resistance, the momentum, and the deep inner work that’s happening behind the scenes. Lately, I’ve been feeling this pull to create differently and with more intention and more effort. Not forced effort and reluctance, but chosen effort and excitement. The kind that is sharpening my skills, expands my capacity, and reconnects me to the reason I started creating in the first place.I talk about my childhood and my first experience with creativity, the pressure to always be “good,” the difference between studying vs. improvising, and how abundance can actually make you less creative if you’re not paying attention. I get into why effort matters, how momentum is built, and why people who are wildly successful often are the ones who mix talent with consistent effort.This episode is a deep dive into my own creative mindset shift for anyone who’s navigating a creative transition, feeling stuck, or craving a deeper relationship with their own voice. If you’ve been asking yourself what's next creatively, you may find resonance with where I am. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Nostalgic Beginnings: The Donkey Kong Challenge00:47 Welcome to 'It Takes a Village'03:35 Creativity and the Creative Process10:51 Effort vs. Effortless Creativity13:55 The Michael Jordan of Creativity15:42 Reflecting on Creative Effort24:29 Final Thoughts and Listener EngagementConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin   Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com

Alex Ayodele, CEO and founder of Balcony People, joins us today to break down the Blood Type Diet, the viral framework that quietly transformed my life before we ever even spoke. After losing her gallbladder at a young age and navigating years of unexplained digestive issues, acne, inflammation, and fatigue, Alex discovered the power of eating according to blood type. What started as a personal healing journey became a calling to help others understand their bodies, their biology, and their emotional and spiritual health.She walks us through her transformation, she explains the differences between blood types, the real meaning of “highly beneficial,” “neutral,” and “avoid” foods, and why inflammation shows up differently for each person. She also dives into regeneration, food quality, emotional capacity, fatigue, hormones, and why so many of us are exhausted, inflamed, and disconnected in a culture that eats around the clock.Alex also opens up about the deeper side of healing, the mindset shifts, the spiritual grounding, the role of faith, and the power of asking different questions as you rebuild trust with your body. She shares how she created Balcony People as both a wellness concierge and a reminder that we are meant to be surrounded by people who lift us higher. Through her story, you’ll understand why your period, mood, energy, and digestion may be signaling more than you think, and why healing is both physical and spiritual work.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Introduction and Mindset Coaching02:04 Personal Health Journey05:16 Discovering the Blood Type Diet08:20 Interview with Alex Ayodele08:33 Understanding Blood Types and Diets10:33 Implementing the Blood Type Diet28:26 Long-Term Benefits and Personal Experiences36:56 A Painful Period in Costa Rica37:30 Discovering Blood Sugar Balance38:03 Struggles with Weight and Energy38:24 Skin and Environmental Changes39:37 The Impact of Blood Type on Health40:10 The Role of Blood Type in Diet and Exercise47:05 Balancing Awareness and Digestion48:39 The Importance of Mindset in Health49:19 Spirituality and Personal Growth57:38 Integrating Faith and Coaching01:09:05 Balcony People: A Wellness Concierge01:12:54 Subscription and Membership Programs01:14:26 Final Thoughts and GratitudeLearn more about Alex Ayodele:Alex Ayodele is the CEO and founder of Balcony People, a premium wellness concierge supporting individuals and families in transforming their health through integrative nutrition, blood type strategy, and conscious lifestyle redesign. Through her six-month coaching program and the Balcony People Wellness Circle, Alex helps people restore their bodies, reconnect with their intuition, heal inflammation, and create sustainable, aligned habits that support their emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.Get the blood type diet book referenced in our conversation. Connect with Alex:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alexayodele_/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-ayodele-b56a9121b Website https://alexayodele.com/ Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.comGet the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m taking a deep dive into the Sephora ecosystem, from Sephora Squad to Sephora Storefront to Sephora Accelerate, and break down why the beauty giant’s strategy is one of the smartest models in modern creator marketing.Drawing from my own journey as a longtime makeup artist and creator, we’ll explore how Sephora built an interconnected system that supports influencers, brands, and community all at once and how you can apply the same thinking to your own creative life.I will share my hot take on affiliate links, authenticity, and why creators today need a true ecosystem instead of relying on one platform. I also reflect on her early days in beauty, the evolution of influencer culture, and how creators can build momentum by understanding the difference between followers and community.Using Sephora as a metaphor, I break down how to think of yourself as the “retailer” of your own world with platforms acting as your storefronts, advocates as your affiliate network, and your real community as your most powerful accelerator.This episode is both a business lesson and a mindset shift for anyone building something online. Whether you're a creator, a founder, or someone stepping into your next chapter, this conversation will help you understand the value you bring and how to create in a way that reflects it.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “How can I be more aligned, powerful, peaceful, or successful?” When you embrace who you are and trust the people walking with you, momentum builds, purpose reveals itself, and your life begins to shift in the most beautiful ways. Awareness is life’s balancing tool — and you are in the right place at the right time, always.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:27 Networking and Building Your Village03:03 Deep Dive into Sephora's Business Model03:42 Affiliate Links and Influencer Marketing09:14 Sephora Squad and Influencer Programs15:26 Sephora Accelerate and Brand Development17:32 Creating Content and Marketing Strategies29:52 Conclusion and Coaching OpportunitiesConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.comGet the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

Welcome to Build Your Village, a video e-book for the Village community. I’m Delina Medhin, the host of It Takes a Village. This video ebook is designed to help you explore how to network, meet people, and build your own community. On the show, we have discussed how I built my village and how I have helped others build theirs. Now it’s time to talk about how to build your own.In this episode, I open up about the origin story of why the Build Your Village E-book needed to happen now. It was a divine download that came to me during one of my morning walks. What started as an inspired thought became a calling to create a space for self-funded women who are building something on their own.I will share my honest experience as a self-funded entrepreneur, the moments of loneliness, anger, and isolation that shaped me, and the realization that independence doesn’t have to mean doing it all alone. Community is what saved me. My village is what saved me.Build Your Village is both a guide and a healing offering. It’s for the self-funded, the solopreneurs, and the dreamers who want to create meaningful work while staying connected to themselves and to others. Through my story, I invite you to reconsider what support really looks like, to build from a foundation of connection, faith, and trust instead of burnout and self-reliance.This episode is a reflection on what it truly takes to grow something from the ground up and a reminder that you are not meant to do it by yourself. It’s an invitation to create from a place of wholeness, support, and belief that your vision is possible.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:05 Exciting New Project: Build Your Village04:55 The Journey to Building Your Village07:06 Personal Reflections and Challenges12:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think of You: www.delinamedhin.com See all the details in the show notes here.

In this solo episode, Delina dives into feminine money energy and what it means to move from chasing to attracting. She shares how burnout reshaped her relationship with ambition, the difference between selling and marketing, the importance of community, the transformative power of gratitude, and the power of only wanting what truly wants you back.Delina reflects on how influential people in her life have guided her career and offers thoughts on finding alignment in your personal and professional life. She discusses the balance between marketing and sales, emphasizing the importance of being overdoing. Delina also addresses the challenges of burnout and the significance of prayer, meditation, and self-reflection in aligning with opportunities and achieving personal goals. From selling Krispy Kreme donuts in her early days to navigating the modern pressure to “always be doing”, this episode is a reminder that success doesn’t have to feel hard; it can feel honest.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:04 About the Show and Its Purpose03:04 The Power of Alignment13:12 Marketing vs. Sales21:37 Personal Growth and Authenticity23:33 Final ThoughtsConnect with Delina: ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Access the full show notes here.

Wende Zomnir, a beauty industry disruptor and co-founder of both Urban Decay and Caliray, joins us today to talk all about breaking beauty in two different decades, the serendipitous aerobics class connection that led to partnering with Cisco Systems co-founder Sandy Lerner, and how finding plastic trash on a deserted island in the Maldives sparked her mission to create truly sustainable beauty.She breaks down the wild early days of Urban Decay - from tracking down Shirley Manson through Minneapolis phone books to creating the first social media campaign by paying cool New York girls to pass out makeup to their friends. Wende also opens up about her extensive wellness routine that includes surfing, weightlifting, yoga, and competitive tennis, and why she believes hormone replacement therapy should be accessible to all women. Plus, she shares the origin story behind Urban Decay's legendary All Nighter setting spray (spoiler: it involved spraying her face with actual hairspray during beauty pageants).Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction00:09 Wende's Career Beginnings at Cisco Systems00:37 Sandy Lerner's Influence and Female Empowerment01:19 The Evolution of the Beauty Industry03:58 The Serendipitous Meeting with Sandy07:43 Wende's Son and Family Life08:53 Wende’s Passion for Surfing and Sports12:27 The Birth of Caliray and Sustainability in Beauty14:10 Challenges and Innovations in Sustainable Packaging18:33 The Evolution of Beauty Marketing and Social Media31:27 The Iconic All-Nighter Setting Spray35:24 Mitigating Life Drift: Hormone Replacement Therapy37:18 The Beauty Drink: A Lifestyle Brand38:55 The Importance of Wellness and Exercise41:26 Fundraising and Building Relationships45:05 The Caliray House: A Unique Workspace47:05 Exciting New Products: Lip Guards49:19 Challenges and Team Dynamics in a Startup55:01 Leadership Lessons and Personal Balance57:58 The Magic of Yoga and Beginner's Mind01:00:41 SPF Routine and Product Recommendations01:05:26 Global Aspirations and Brand Identity01:09:05 Advice for Aspiring FoundersLearn more about Wende Zomnir:Wende Zomnir is a modern beauty industry pioneer. She unleashed Urban Decay in 1996, filling the void with makeup that fueled a beauty revolution. Urban Decay democratized beauty and wellness, and Wende paved the way for the indie beauty movement and future beauty entrepreneurs. After running over plastic bottles with her surfboard, she turned her sights on another beauty revolution: sustainability and performance clean formulas. In January 2022, Wende founded Caliray, a West Coast beauty and wellness brand serving face and planet. Caliray creates performance clean beauty products with skincare-level ingredients, and infuses the products with sexy sustainability and innovative packaging solutions. Connect with Wende:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wendezomnir TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@wendezomnir Instagram https://www.instagram.com/caliray/ Website https://caliraybeauty.com/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@caliray Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/caliray/ Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Head to the show notes website here.

Naeemah LaFond, a powerhouse hairstylist and global ambassador, joins us today to talk about her journey from playing with Barbie hair in Brooklyn to revolutionizing texture education in the beauty industry. She opens up about the pivotal 2020 guide that sparked industry-wide conversations about supporting Black hairstylists, the creation of her game-changing Black On Set mentorship program, and how she built Texture On Set into the must-attend event for professionals.Naeemah also shares deeply personal stories about her life-threatening health scare that led to an emergency blood transfusion, growing up between East Flatbush and Haiti, and how meeting her husband changed everything about what partnership could look like. Plus, she talks about why community building has become her superpower.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Welcome00:37 The Influence of Crystal Wright02:11 Early Inspirations in Hair03:54 Growing Up Between Brooklyn and Haiti07:34 Finding Love and Support11:40 Career Challenges and Breakthroughs14:44 Health Scare and Resilience21:21 Rising Through the Ranks at Amika24:16 Becoming a Global Ambassador26:53 Advocating for Black Hairstylists32:41 The Impact of Black Squares on Social Media34:56 The Role of Allyship in Activism35:53 Immediate Changes and Industry Response38:25 Creating Black On Set: Mentorship and Masterclasses50:41 The Evolution of Texture On Set57:40 The Importance of Community in the Hair Industry01:00:57 Personal and Professional InfluencesResources:Crystal Wright’s episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s1-ep-3-why-you-need-a-business-mentor/id1580081881?i=1000539012807 Learn more about Naeemah LaFond:Naeemah LaFond is an internationally acclaimed hairstylist and the 2024 North American Hairstylist Awards Editorial Hair Stylist of the Year. Celebrated for her iconic runway looks and high-profile global ad campaigns, she is renowned for her mastery of all hair textures. As a platform artist and on-air beauty expert, LaFond has played a pivotal role in launching top beauty brands and has trained thousands of professionals across 15 countries, redefining industry standards.In 2013, LaFond made history as the first Black woman appointed Global Artistic Director for a major international beauty brand, shattering barriers in an industry long marked by exclusivity. She currently serves as the Global Brand Ambassador for Olaplex, one of the most prestigious and innovative haircare brands in the world. A powerful advocate for diversity, she authored a viral guide on inclusivity and co-developed Pinterest’s groundbreaking hair texture search tool. LaFond is also the visionary founder of Texture On Set, the first professional industry event championing texture education in fashion and beauty, and leads Black On Set, a groundbreaking mentorship program transforming the careers of Black women in fashion. She is represented by The Wall Group, one of the most sought-after artist representation agencies in the industry.Connect with Naeemah:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/naeemahlafond/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/textureonset/ Website https://textureonset.com/ Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.comGet the full show notes of this episode here.

Sanja Komljenovic, a strategic powerhouse and founder of ONA agency, joins us today to talk all about building brands that matter, the art of empathy-driven marketing, and how her refugee experience shaped her problem-solving mindset. She breaks down the real work behind successful campaigns for Nike, Ulta Beauty, and other major brands, plus the importance of hiring people with lived experience to tell authentic stories.Sanja also opens up about fleeing Bosnia during the genocide as a child and how sports taught her resilience and leadership. Plus, she talks about launching South Central Wine while running a 30-person agency, and why she's the friend you call when you need the cold hard truth and a strategic game plan.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:08 Feeling Behind Despite Achievements01:43 Sanja’s Bosnian Background01:50 War and Refugee Experience04:04 Adjusting to Life in America06:36 Sibling Dynamics and Confidence10:08 Sports and Life Lessons12:40 Mindset and Problem-Solving14:26 Friendship and Empathy24:11 Starting Ona Agency28:24 Balancing Personal and Professional Life33:17 The Benefits of a Three-Day Reset34:44 Managing a Growing Team35:41 Opening a New Office Space36:49 The Importance of Discipline in the Workplace38:38 Working with Freelancers and Overseas Talent40:25 Building a Brand Strategy43:48 Launching a New Brand46:26 The Role of Empathy in Marketing51:23 Choosing the Right Influencers57:34 Starting South Central Wine01:01:41 Personal and Professional Influences01:05:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:Digital Detox Guide: https://delinamedhin.myflodesk.com/digitaldetoxguide Learn more about Sanja Komljenovic:Sanja Komljenovic is the Founder, CEO, and Executive Creative Director of ONA Creative—an advertising agency and production company based in Los Angeles.ONA, which means “her” in Bosnian, was born out of Sanja’s desire to create socially driven, culturally resonant work—especially around women’s rights and representation for marginalized communities, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Since launching in 2015, ONA has worked with global brands such as Nike, Jordan Brand, Converse, US Soccer/USWNT, WNBA, Ulta Beauty, Oakley, Meta, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), multiple pro sports teams, and women-led startups. Over the course of her career, Sanja has helped lead campaigns featuring world-class athletes and cultural icons including Serena Williams, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Jennifer Lopez. In 2024, she was inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Achievement.Connect with Sanja:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sanjak LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjakomljenovic/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/onacreativeLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/onacreative/ Website https://www.onacreative.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/southcentralwine/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/southcentralwine/ Website https://southcentralwine.com/ Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Visit the show notes here.

Alisa Carmichael, a powerhouse investor and partner at VMG Partners, joins us today to talk all about the world of venture capital, private equity, and growth equity for founders who want to understand what they're actually signing up for. She breaks down the different stages of investment, from early-stage VC checks to multi-million dollar growth equity partnerships, and explains why most investors don't want to be married to your business forever.Alisa also opens up about being one of the few Black women in investment, her journey from Yale to investment banking to finding her calling working with founders, and how she co-created Parity Collective to support early-stage founders of color. Plus, she shares what she's really looking for when founders pitch her (hint: it's all about the "we" not the "I"), why you need to build relationships before you need them, and how she balances being a mom of two while traveling for work. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction00:23 Understanding Venture Capital and Private Equity01:24 Alisa's Educational Background and Early Influences04:31 Journey into Investment Banking08:09 Transition to VMG Partners08:41 The Role of Founders and Investment Strategies14:49 Stages of Investment Explained18:35 Focus on Consumer Fund and Parity Collective21:58 Navigating the Beauty Industry22:28 The Challenges of Trade Shows23:05 The Importance of Gratitude in Business23:30 The Beyonce of Beauty24:32 Key Traits of Successful Founders25:00 Understanding the Beauty Market25:59 The Role of Self-Awareness in Partnerships27:55 Building a Strong Business Plan30:39 The Benefits and Risks of Retail Exclusivity33:05 Direct-to-Consumer Strategies36:40 The Goal of Exiting a Business37:42 Alternative Funding Options42:04 The Importance of Relationships in Business44:24 Personal and Professional Mentorship47:01 Balancing Parenthood and Career48:20 Conclusion and Future TopicsLearn more about Alisa Carmichael:Cited as one of “The Beauty Industry’s Most Powerful Financiers” by WWD, Alisa is a veteran consumer investor who has been a key member of the VMG Partners team for 10 years. While at VMG, she has been a key leader on investments in companies including The Honey Pot Company, Briogeo, Danessa Myricks Beauty, BeautyStat, and Rowan. She is a trusted advisor to many founders, a wife, and a mother to two toddler boys!Connect with Alisa:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alisacarmichael/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-carmichael-26114973/ Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Explore this episode's full show notes here.

Beatrice Dixon, founder and CEO of The Honey Pot Company, joins us today to talk all about building a $380 million wellness empire that started with a dream visit from her grandmother. She opens up about her year-long struggle with bacterial vaginosis, the ancestral wisdom that led to her first product formulation, and how she scaled from making vulva wash in her kitchen to securing major retail partnerships with Target and Walmart.She also gets real about the business side of success, breaking down venture capital versus private equity funding, and the realities of being a Black female founder. Plus, she dismantles the romanticized version of entrepreneurship we see on social media, shares why focus beats having five different businesses, and talks about the importance of caring for your body while building wealth.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction00:20 Celebrating Achievements00:51 The Honey Pot Company01:49 Empowerment and Womanhood03:55 The Origin Story11:00 Building the Business14:59 Acquisition and Growth19:36 Insights on Investment20:22 The Reality of Business Investments21:16 The Stress and Sacrifice of Building a Business22:03 Indicators for Raising Capital22:36 Scaling Strategies and Personal Preferences24:14 The Concept of Conscious Capitalism25:02 Misunderstandings About Black Women Founders26:46 Protecting Your Peace as a Leader27:46 Future Trends in Wellness and Skincare29:15 New Product Launch: Calming Herbal Pads30:39 The Realities of Entrepreneurship31:35 The Importance of Focus and Intuition36:29 The Role of Humility and Gratitude in Success38:53 Understanding and Caring for Our Bodies42:43 Acknowledging the Support System43:27 Where to Find Honey Pot ProductsLearn more about Beatrice Dixon:Bea Dixon is the CEO, Co-Founder, and Chief Innovation Officer of The Honey Pot Company, the personal wellness brand “made by humans with vaginas, for humans with vaginas.” ®Bea created The Honey Pot Company in 2014 out of great personal need during an eight-month battle with bacterial vaginosis. The constant symptoms and fruitless search for solutions led her to formulate what became The Honey Pot Company’s first product, a vulva-safe wash. The Honey Pot Company currently offers feminine washes, wipes, tampons, pads, and products for personal health and wellness. Today, The Honey Pot Company’s plant-derived products can be found in 4.6 million U.S. homes and in retailers nationwide.Connect with Beatrice:Instagram @iambeadixon  X @iambeadixonLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-dixon/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/thehoneypotco/Instagram @thehoneypotcoWebsite https://thehoneypot.co/ TikTok @thehoneypotcoConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠ Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Dive into the full show notes here.

In this episode, Delina Medhin welcomes Franchesca Ramsey, an award-winning writer, actress, and digital creator, for an open conversation about her ability to see the potential in others and learning to trust your instincts. Franchesca shares how her love of helping others succeed has shaped her career, from connecting friends with opportunities to supporting emerging talent behind the scenes.We dive into Franchesca’s reflections on overcoming imposter syndrome, as a Black Queer woman in entertainment, and the journey to trusting her own voice. She opens up about the importance of authenticity, pouring into friendships, and why believing in your gut can be the best gift of growing older.This mini episode is filled with thoughtful insights, personal stories, and practical wisdom on how to support those around you, trust your intuition, and create lasting connections in your personal and professional life. If you’re seeking inspiration to lead with generosity and self-belief, this episode is for you.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders and creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 Championing Women and the Power of Pouring Into Others01:00 Building Chosen Family Through Friendship02:00 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Trusting Your Gut03:10 Spotting Talent and Creating CommunityLearn more about Franchesca Ramsey:Franchesca "Chescaleigh" Ramsey is an acclaimed actress, writer, and public speaker known for creating and starring in the award-winning web series MTV Decoded. She gained viral fame with her groundbreaking video “Sh*t White Girls Say…to Black Girls,” which has amassed over 11 million views and influenced academic discourse. With nearly 20 years in digital media and over a decade in film and television, Franchesca has written for Comedy Central’s The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore, co-produced the iCarly reboot, and guest-starred on NBC’s Superstore. Her debut book, Well That Escalated Quickly, was nominated for an NAACP award. Franchesca is also a sought-after speaker and consultant, engaging audiences on topics including social justice, content creation, and personal branding, and she currently co-hosts the podcast Lemme Fix It! Her debut feature was selected for the 2024 Sundance fellowship program.Link to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bNx... Link to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Connect with Franchesca Ramsey:Instagram   / chescaleigh  TikTok   / franchesca_leigh   Facebook   / chescaleigh   YouTube    / chescaleigh   X (Twitter)   / chescaleigh  Website: https://www.franchesca.net/Lemme Fix It! PodcastApple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5qKcw24... YouTube    • Lemme Fix It!   Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:Instagram:   / delinamedhin  TikTok:   / delinamedhin  YouTube:    / @delinamedhin  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@delinamedhinWebsite: https://www.delinamedhin.com/#ittakesavillage #franchescaramsey #community #womenempowerment #impostersyndrome #personalgrowth

In this episode, Delina Medhin welcomes Deepica Mutyala, the Founder and CEO of Live Tinted, for an open and heartfelt conversation about self-growth, self-care, and raising the bar in life, relationships, and work. Deepica shares her journey of stepping back from the constant demands of social media to find stillness, clarity, and a new baseline for success. Her story is one of learning to slow down, set boundaries, and prioritize what truly matters.We dive into Deepica’s reflections on the importance of creating space for rest and reflection, and how that pause helped her redefine growth on her own terms. She also opens up about raising standards in her relationships, letting go of toxicity, and cultivating love and connection that support her evolving self. Deepica’s honesty about the challenges of balancing ambition with well-being offers invaluable lessons for anyone navigating a busy, fast-paced world.This mini episode is filled with thoughtful insights, personal stories, and practical wisdom on how to embrace stillness, set boundaries, and raise your own bar, whether in your career, relationships, or personal growth journey. If you’re looking for inspiration to slow down, reflect, and grow with intention, this episode is for you.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders and creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 The Power of Digital Detox and Finding Stillness00:55 Navigating Love, Boundaries, and Letting Go of Toxicity01:55 Setting a New Baseline for Growth03:10 Balancing Ambition with Rest and Self-CareLearn more about Deepica Mutyala:Deepica Mutyala is the founder and CEO of Live Tinted, a beauty brand dedicated to inclusivity and representation for all skin tones. As an entrepreneur and advocate for diversity in beauty, Deepica champions self-care, mental clarity, and raising standards in both personal and professional spaces. Her journey reflects a commitment to growth, balance, and cultivating meaningful connections.Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-ep-58-10-million-views-to-time-leader-founder-deepica/id1580081881?i=1000695882255Link to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2viBuDofWlhDLyIdNkPqet?si=-OlxKGGUTkuwIAmErRStIAConnect with Deepica Mutyala:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deepicaFacebook https://www.facebook.com/deepica/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@deepicaX (Twitter) https://x.com/deepicamWebsite: https://deepica.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/livetintedFacebook https://www.facebook.com/livetinted/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@livetintedYouTube https://www.youtube.com/tintedWebsite https://www.livetinted.com/Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhinTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@delinamedhinThreads: https://www.threads.net/@delinamedhinWebsite: https://www.delinamedhin.com/#ittakesavillage #selfgrowth #selfcare #boundaries #personalgrowth #deepicamutyala

In this episode, Delina welcomes hairstylist and entrepreneur Yene Damtew for a meaningful conversation about intuition, boundaries, and navigating relationships in the world of beauty and celebrity. Yene opens up about her instinct for spotting opportunists, the importance of keeping a tight circle, and how her upbringing shaped her approach to trust and connection, especially as someone who’s worked with high-profile celebrities like Sasha, Malia, and Michelle Obama.We explore the challenges of maintaining professionalism and humility in an industry where proximity to fame can blur boundaries. Yene shares honest stories about learning to trust her gut, and why she values authentic connections over quick friendships. She also reflects on the difference between being a service provider and seeking the spotlight, offering invaluable wisdom for anyone working behind the scenes..This episode is filled with honest conversation and practical insights on protecting peace while building a successful creative career. Whether you’re a beauty professional, entrepreneur, or someone navigating complex relationships, Yene’s journey will resonate with you.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 Spotting Opportunists & Trusting Your Gut01:20 Defining Real Friends vs. Associates03:45 Working with High-Profile Clients 04:20 Building Authentic Connections in the Industry06:10 Service Provider vs. Celebrity MindsetLearn more about Yene Damtew:Yene Damtew is a renowned hairstylist, salon owner, and entrepreneur known for her work with high-profile clients and her commitment to authenticity in the beauty industry. As the founder of Aesthetics Salon, in DC. Yene champions professionalism, mentorship, and creating spaces where both clients and creatives can thrive.Link to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-ep-55-michelle-obamas-hairstylist-yene-damtew/id1580081881?i=1000688726500Link to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1r5pJmG3Z61v64ETvHTeG4?si=_LNckuVOSTe1HVHxjqkksA Connect with Yene Damtew:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/yenedamtew/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/YeneDamtewHair/Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@yenedamtew Website: https://yenedamtew.com/Book an Appointment at Aesthetics Salon https://aesthetics.salon/Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhinTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@delinamedhinThreads: https://www.threads.net/@delinamedhinWebsite: https://www.delinamedhin.com/#ittakesavillage #yenedamtew #michelleobama #sashaobama #maliaobama #theobamas #michelleobamahair #michelleobamahairstylist #salonbusiness #beautysalon #beautyindustry #intuition #boundaries #entrepreneurship

In this episode, we welcome the multi-talented Issa Rae for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, creative growth, and the power of collaboration. Issa shares her journey from the early days of Awkward Black Girl to becoming a trailblazer in entertainment and business. Issa’s passion for building community shines through her investments and partnerships, including her work with Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen and her commitment to uplifting South LA.We dive into Issa’s experiences navigating Hollywood, building successful businesses, and the importance of finding the right people to support your vision. She shared candid stories about meeting her business manager “by chance,” learning to manage her finances, and the importance of patience and trust in every partnership. Issa also highlights the unique strengths of her collaborators, Ajay and Yonnie, and how their shared vision helped bring Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen to life.This episode is filled with laughter, honest reflections, and invaluable lessons on staying true to your purpose while expanding into new ventures. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative, or someone who loves inspiring stories, this episode is for you.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 Balancing Acting and Business01:09 The Power of Finding the Right People03:20 The Start of Hilltop Coffee4:35 The Dynamic Between Ajay & YonnieLearn more about Issa Rae:Issa Rae is an Emmy® and Golden Globe®-nominated actress, writer, producer, and entrepreneur. She first gained attention with her award-winning web series and New York Times best-seller, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl. As the founder of HOORAE Media, Issa champions diverse storytelling across film, TV, and music. Her investments in local businesses, including Hilltop Cafe + Kitchen and Sienna Naturals, reflect her dedication to empowering her community and reimagining Black wellness and creativity.Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-ep-54-issa-rae-the-entrepreneur/id1580081881?i=1000686268868Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/59XpGGDYM5VihvMXaqfCmR?si=8ad0ad72fdf94d4eConnect with Issa Rae:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/issaraeYoutube https://www.youtube.com/issaraeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/issarae/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/findyourhilltop/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/findyourhilltopTiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@hilltopfortheclimbX (Twitter) https://x.com/findyourhilltopFacebook https://www.facebook.com/HOORAEMedia/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hooraemedia/​Youtube @HOORAEMedia  Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@hooraemedia X (Twitter) https://x.com/hooraemedia Website https://hoorae.co/Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhinTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DelinamedhinThreads: https://www.threads.net/@delinamedhinWebsite: https://www.delinamedhin.com/#ittakesavillage #issarae #entrepreneurship #partnership #businessgrowth

In this episode, we welcome Violette Serrat for an intimate conversation about turning creative passion into purposeful business while exploring the delicate balance between ambition and authenticity. Violette opens up about her evolution from makeup content creator to founder of VIOLETTE_FR, sharing the mindset shifts that allowed her to pursue her vision with unwavering focus while protecting herself from the paralysis of perfectionism.We dive deep into the art of building a brand that feels genuinely yours, discussing how Violette learned to trust her instincts and embrace advice that liberated her from external expectations. She gets vulnerable about the realities of entrepreneurial motherhood, revealing how raising two children while launching a beauty brand taught her invaluable lessons about prioritization, presence, and the power of staying connected to your core values.Violette shares her philosophy on creating digital spaces that feel like extensions of your soul, walking us through how her passion for art and interior design influences everything from product development to the carefully curated aesthetic of her Instagram presence. She explains why emotional connection matters more than follower counts and how she's built a community that feels authentic rather than transactional.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 The Vision Behind VIOLETTE_FR00:46 The Journey to Launching a Brand03:57 Balancing Motherhood and Career06:21 The Art of Instagram CurationLearn more about Violette Serrat:An award-winning makeup artist, the Guerlain Global Creative Director of Makeup, and the Founder/CEO of VIOLETTE_FR, Violette is a distinguished name in her own right. With nearly 20 years of experience, Violette brought to life a vision of creating a space where beauty and art meet to evoke emotion. Known not only for her professional resume as a creative director working with the likes of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W Magazine, Violette has also fostered a community on social media where her beauty tutorials are treasured among consumers and professionals alike. Launched in 2021, VIOLETTE_FR is a multi-category beauty brand offering a curated line of products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and made with safe ingredients. The brand's French-inspired beauty culture bridges the gap between minimalist and the beauty-obsessed. Celebrating imperfection and individuality through creativity and self-care as a tool.Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-ep-32-paris-to-nyc-violette-fr-founder-creative/id1580081881?i=1000631627831Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BtK1S475tNwu1fgpKJKS0?si=vwaBL07CRp2SeJrTuMH-pwConnect with Violette Serrat:⁠Instagram ⁠@violette_frTikTok⁠ @violette_frYouTube ⁠@violettefrWebsite ⁠⁠https://www.violettefr.com/Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:⁠Instagram ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠Threads ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com

In this episode, we welcome the incredible Danessa Myricks for a conversation exploring the transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth while unpacking the essential tools that help maintain our self-confidence during life's inevitable ups and downs. Danessa shares her wisdom on why inner validation matters more than external approval, how we can learn valuable lessons from others' journeys, and the crucial role played by supporters who remind us of our progress when we forget how far we've come.We get candid about the life-changing impact of daily affirmations and consistent journaling practices, alongside strategies for navigating relationships with people who may not align with our current path. Danessa takes us through her entrepreneurial journey with all its exhilarating highs and challenging moments of loneliness. This conversation with Danessa is filled with vulnerable moments, practical wisdom, and actionable strategies for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with themselves while creating a life that feels authentically their own.Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’.00:00 Self-Pep Talks and Support Systems00:48 The Power of Learning from Others02:04 Daily Practices for Self-Improvement02:30 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence04:42 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Achievements06:47 Navigating Relationships and Personal Boundaries08:45 Reconnecting with People from the PastLearn more about Danessa Myricks:As a makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur, Danessa Myricks is one of the most influential leaders in the beauty industry. She is often credited for mastering the perfect beauty application and producing striking imagery through her photography work. From the outset of Danessa’s career in beauty, she has been a pioneer in spearheading inclusive cosmetic marketing initiatives for diverse skin tones. With the creation of her multi-million-dollar eponymous brand, Danessa Myricks Beauty and photography work, she continues to creatively combine art, product innovation, education, and inclusivity to move the beauty industry forward.Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-ep-34-self-discovery-and-success-a-masterclass/id1580081881?i=1000633244655Listen to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3MBJneA9ZenL7M9wppkazw?si=nhcHDhXkQVe4R0xWhg1cigConnect with Danessa Myricks:Instagram @danessa_myricksTikTok @danessamyricksbeautyYouTube @danessamyricksbeautyWebsite https://danessamyricksbeauty.com/Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin:⁠Instagram ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠Threads ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠Website ⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com⁠#ittakesavillage #danessamyricksbeauty #beautycommunity #makeup #selfimprovement

In this solo episode of It Takes a Village, I dive deep into my journey with vitamins and how they've genuinely changed my life and boosted my energy. Honestly, I was super skeptical at first I always had vitamins but never really stuck with them because I didn’t feel immediate results.Everything changed after experiencing intense burnout at the end of 2023. I knew something had to give, so I bravely decided to take a three-month break, completely disconnecting to recharge. During this break, I discovered new passions like adventure, meditation, yoga, scuba diving, and even surfing. It surprised me how much joy and energy these experiences brought into my life.Now, I regularly schedule intentional breaks, including digital detox weekends, magnesium baths, and self-care rituals that genuinely rejuvenate me.It’s time to talk about hormones. Over the past couple months I have improved my hormones tremendously. I have always suffered from a vicious 1-2 (first days) of my cycle and it was time to change things. I needed to. I wanted to and I couldn’t do anything better.Drawing inspiration from Alisa Vitti's book "In the Flo," I've learned to align my tasks with the four phases of my menstrual cycle, menstruation, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal to naturally boost productivity and wellbeing.Join me as I explore embracing feminine energy, respecting the unique rhythm of our bodies as women, and the amazing impact holistic self-care and quality vitamins have had on my health and happiness.Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠⁠Connect with Delina:⁠⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comAccess the full show notes here.

Franchesca Ramsey, a multifaceted creative force, joins us today to talk all about creating meaningful content, the success of the Leopard Song, the science behind becoming viral, and behind-the-scenes stories from her time on MTV's Decoded. Franchesca also opens up about coming out as queer, and setting boundaries on social media. Plus, she talks about her upcoming masterclass, on April 19th and 26th (click here to sign up). in content creation and shares her secret talent for spotting rising stars and why she's the ultimate connector in the entertainment industry. This conversation is filled with laughter, wisdom, and practical advice for people making an impact online while staying true to themselves. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:26 Meet Franchesca Ramsey02:12 The Beginnings of a Friendship02:58 Career Highlights and Makeup Stories06:54 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons11:34 Navigating Online Presence and Mental Health18:33 Podcasting and Creative Ventures23:29 Dating and Personal Life28:34 Navigating FaceTime Dates30:05 Embracing Self-Love and Friendships32:04 The Power of Calendars and Organization34:45 The Science Behind Creating Viral Content37:31 The Value of Relatable Content45:02 Overcoming Creative Challenges55:39 Supporting Friends in the Industry01:02:04 The Importance of Presentation01:02:38 Punctuality and Professionalism01:05:38 The Viral Leopard Song01:13:07 Coming Out and Queer Identity01:17:42 Balancing Privacy and Public Life01:21:07 Career Advice and Mentorship01:27:01 Shoutouts to Influential People01:32:15 Where to Find Franchesca's WorkLearn more about Franchesca:Franchesca "Chescaleigh'" Ramsey is an actor, writer, sought-after public speaker, and creator/star of the award-winning web series MTV Decoded.  A former writer/correspondent for Comedy Central’s The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore, her first book, Well That Escalated Quickly was nominated for an NAACP award and named one of Amazon’s best books of 2018. In 2020 she served as writer/co-producer on the iCarly reboot for Paramount+ and guest starred on NBC’s Superstore. These days you’ll find her co-hosting the podcast Lemme Fix It! with her best friend De’lon Grant. In 2024 Franchesca’s debut feature was selected for the Sundance fellowship program.Franchesca burst into the spotlight in January 2012 when her video, “Sh*t White Girls Say…to Black Girls” (SWGSTBG) went viral. It garnered over 1.5 million views in 24 hours and 5 million views in just 5 days. It also made a lot of white girls cry.  SWGSTBG currently has 11 million views and has been featured on MSNBC, ABC, The Daily Mail and the Anderson Cooper talk show, to name a few. Over a decade later and the video has been quoted in textbooks, translated into multiple languages and was even the subject of a 20 page graduate dissertation.With nearly 20 years in the online space and over a decade in film and television, Franchesca has carved out a unique lane as a public speaker and consultant.  From college campuses to corporate workshops, her super power comes from engaging with audiences in ways that help  them laugh, learn and think. Franchesca is available for public speaking and consulting opportunities for a myriad of subjects including: content creation, social media marketing,  identity/social justice, tv writing, personal branding and more.Connect with Franchesca:Instagram @chescaleighTikTok @franchesca_leighWebsite www.franchesca.netConnect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠Threads @delinamedhin⁠Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.comSee all the details in the show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, Delina sits with Hannah Diop, co-founder and CEO of Sienna Naturals. Building a clean beauty brand for textured hair takes passion, science, and the right people in your corner—and that’s exactly what Hannah has done. With a background in business strategy at McKinsey & Company and an MBA from Wharton, Hannah fused her expertise with her personal hair journey to create a line of science-backed, wellness-driven haircare products.Hannah shares how the idea started as young as when she was 8 years old, swimming regularly and having frustrations with her hair after training. Since then, she has always had the idea of the right kind of hair product in the back of her mind. Her experiences later on at Howard University, HSBC, Wharton, and McKinsey & Company shaped her confidence in her idea, which eventually led to the launch of Sienna Naturals. We also dive into her partnership with Issa Rae, the development of the Sienna Naturals products, and why wellness is a key ingredient in both beauty and entrepreneurship. Plus, she opens up about the importance of having a strong support system—because building something great always takes a village.If you’re an entrepreneur, beauty lover, or someone navigating the clean beauty space, this conversation is filled with insights on brand building, pitching investors, and creating products that truly make a difference. Learn more about Hannah:Hannah Diop is the co-founder and CEO of Sienna Naturals. To create Sienna Naturals, Hannah harnessed the values of her upbringing and skills of her business background. She spent weekends researching ingredients found in nature and proven by science to improve wellness outcomes for textured hair and scalp. Working alongside cosmetic chemists, she made, tweaked and tested product formulations until a line of clean products that significantly outperform competitors was born. Hannah Diop, holds an MBA from Wharton and was a strategy consultant at McKinsey & Company where she worked for clients in big box retail and OTC Pharmaceuticals. Hannah is also a mother of two young children and is proud to lead a company that is more than 80% BIPOC and woman-led. She lives in Los Angeles, CA.Connect with Hannah:Instagram @hannahdiopLinkedInInstagram @siennanaturalsGet your own Sienna Naturals products at siennanaturals.com and sephora.com!Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Dive into the full show notes here.

Hey y’all, this episode is SO special. I take you back to where it all started, back when I was a wide-eyed college girl obsessed with getting a job at MAC Cosmetics. I talk about how talking to people has been about learning makeup from a random website called Expert Village (shoutout to that mystery woman who saved me!) and somehow landing an interview at MAC, even though I barely knew what I was doing.I share the moments that shaped me and the incredible artists I met-- like my makeup mom, Regina, who literally changed my life, and Edson, who taught me to see makeup as an art form. I talk about the moment I realized that my love for makeup was actually about something much deeper: connection.This episode is a reminder that when something lights you up, follow it. Even if you don’t know where it’s leading, even if it doesn’t make sense to anyone else, trust it. Because that’s how I got here. That’s how I went from holding a makeup brush to holding space for real, deep conversations.If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you love the podcast, leave me a review I want to know what resonated, what made you feel something. Y’all know I live for connection. Love you so much, and I’ll see you in the next one. Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Explore the full show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, we have Deepica Mutyala, Founder & CEO of Live Tinted. Deepica shared a beauty hack in 2015 showing how to cover dark undereye circles using red lipstick and the rest is history. Since then, she has been recognized for her achievements in the beauty space, including accolades such as her 2022 dedicated feature as a TIME Magazine Next Generation Leader.Deepica shares with us her story, challenges, and successes from moving to LA, meeting and developing her friendship with Delina, working with Daniel Martin, founding Live Tinted and being a boss, eventually hiring a president for the company, and the importance of Live Tinted’s purpose. She also goes personal as she shares her way of self-love, exploring new hobbies, and meditation. Being single and a founder, Deepica dives into relationships and dating, the reality of imposter syndrome, finding joy and purpose in social media, overcoming event fatigue, the challenges of making your passion your job, and gives us direct advice on authentic influencing. As she grows Live Tinted, being in Ulta and focusing on complexion products and inclusivity, she gives highlight to the importance of her team and her village in executing what needs to be done to scale her business.Whether you are listening as one of her followers or just curious about learning more on series A funding, we’ve got you covered. Tune in to this episode with Deepica Mutyala and follow her journey to revolutionizing beauty.Learn more about Deepica:Deepica Mutyala is the Founder & CEO of Live Tinted, renowned, South-Asian American beauty entrepreneur on a mission to champion multicultural beauty through brand/products, community, conversation, and awareness – working to dismantle colorism with the power and voice of both her personal and Live Tinted platforms.Mutyala rose to the forefront of the beauty industry in 2015 when her YouTube video, depicting a beauty hack to cover dark undereye circles using red lipstick, went viral – now boasting over 10 million views. Since then, Mutyala has been recognized by some of today’s most prestigious publications for her achievements in the beauty space, including accolades such as her 2022 dedicated feature as a TIME Magazine Next Generation Leader.Since the launch of Live Tinted’s first innovation, the HUESTICK, Mutyala & her team continue to expand Live Tinted’s skin care and cosmetic portfolios based on these ongoing, diverse community needs. Today the brand is sold across channels including DTC, on LiveTinted.com, and at top beauty retailers: ULTA.com/ULTA Beauty Stores nationwide – the first South-Asian brand in the prominent retailer, as well as Credo.com/Credo Stores across the country.Outside of innovation, as Live Tinted expands nationwide under Mutyala’s helm, the brand also continues to engage with iconic national partners, such as Barbie, Never Have I Ever, and Phenomenal, as well as receive various notable industry accolades (WWD Best Product Innovation, ELLE Future of Beauty, Allure Best of Beauty, etc.). Mutyala currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. Connect with Deepica:@deepica@livetintedGet your own Live Tinted products at www.livetinted.com!Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Read more from this conversation here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, Delina speaks with Annie Jackson, a beauty veteran and co-founder of Credo. With an illustrious career that began at Estee Lauder, Annie played a critical role in launching Sephora in the U.S. and Japan before creating Credo. Annie has fueled a clean beauty movement and changed the way people think about what they put on their skin and by providing cleaner options for everyone.Annie shares her journey from working in global product marketing and merchandising to co-founding Credo with Shashi Batra. We dive into the early days of Credo, the intentional approach to company growth, and the meticulous process of selecting brands that align with Credo Clean standards. Annie also talks about the collaborative efforts behind co-founding PACT with MOB Beauty, Credo’s commitment to eliminating single-use plastics, and the broader quest for sustainability in the beauty industry.Whether you’re curious about launching a mission-driven business, interested in the behind-the-scenes of clean beauty retail, or simply inspired by pioneers changing the world, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and inspiration.Learn more about Annie:Annie Jackson is a beauty veteran that has been a key player in the successes of the industry’s biggest beauty companies. Annie began her career at Estee Lauder and then was later recruited to be one of the early members of the team that launched Sephora USA and Japan. Annie went on to roles in global product marketing and merchandising for Benefit Cosmetics as well as Sephora inside JCPenney. As the Co-Founder of Credo, Annie’s unwavering commitment to change the way people think about what they put on their skin, and a quest for cleaner options for everyone has fostered a new generation of beauty brands and fueled a clean beauty movement.Connect with Annie:@anniejackson_shopgirl@credobeautyWhat's new?- Get the new Credo Skincare line launched just last September- Learn more about, Pact, the beauty collection non-profit; our goal is to divert beauty packaging waste from going into the landfill.- Credo has also expanded into home with these brands: Caftari, Siblings, Vitruvi, DedCool, Intentional Goods, Atmo- Credo 4 Change - Credo transitioned a couple of years ago away from being a brand founder accelerator to being a career accelerator for BIPOC students. They found their network lacked diversity, the industry lacked diversity, and if they could create a more equitable network for students interested in making a career in beauty after graduation, they could accomplish that.Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the full breakdown here.

Join us in this episode of It Takes A Village as Delina sits down with Laney Crowell, founder and CEO of Saie, the clean beauty brand redefining high-performance cosmetics. With a background as Estée Lauder’s first Executive Director of Online Global Communications and a career that goes from beauty editor to founder, Laney shares how her adventurous upbringing, global perspective, and passion for clean beauty led her to create Saie.In this conversation, Laney dives into her early experiences with acne and how it shaped her approach to beauty. She reflects on her career path leading to launching Saie after listening to her community’s desire for clean, chic, and sustainable makeup. Laney also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at pitching to Sephora, navigating fundraising, and facing tough moments as a founder. Plus, we explore Saie’s commitment to eliminating harmful ingredients, promoting sustainability, and creating a global community rooted in wellness while caring for Mother Earth.Whether you’re passionate about clean beauty, curious about launching a brand, or eager to learn from a founder who balances it all, this episode with Laney will leave you inspired and motivated.Learn more about Laney:Laney Crowell is the founder & CEO of Saie, a clean beauty brand dedicated to making high-performing products that are elevated, effortless, and always easy to use.Prior to founding Saie, she held the role of Estée Lauder’s first Executive Director of Online Global Communications, where she worked at the forefront of the digital, content creation, and social media landscapes when it was still new and uncharted. After Estée Lauder, Laney launched her own beauty and wellness blog called The Moment. While chatting with her blog’s community on Instagram one night, she realized there were thousands of others who desired clean, cool and chic makeup, which sparked the idea of Saie.Laney created Saie to raise the standard in clean cosmetics, offering superior, yet fun products. The brand is committed to using only the purest, safest formulas and has banned the use of 2,000 harmful ingredients commonly found in cosmetics. Through Saie, Crowell was able to create not just a beauty brand, but an entire community centered around wellness. Laney received her B.A. in Mathematical Economics from Pomona College, but fell in love with her minors in Psychology and French studies. The daughter of a diplomat, she was born in Colorado, but traveled around the globe as a child, having lived in China, France and Washington D.C. She is a wife and proud mother of two, residing in the Hamptons with her family.Connect with Laney:@laneyWhat's new?- Learn more about Saie Climate Initiative and The Saie Way.- Saie recently expanded to Sephora Middle East in October.- Sign up for Lunch Break, Laney's Newsletter, a free Wednesday substack column about beauty, fashion and feeling good. And maybe some business insights sprinkled in here and there. If you want more Saie news, subscribe to Saie's substack, From the Office.Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Shownotes available here.

In this next episode of It Takes A Village, Delina speaks to long-time friend and colleague, Yene Damtew, a renowned beauty expert, industry leader, and salon owner in the haircare industry. With nearly two decades of experience, Yene has blended artistry, education, and business strategy to redefine beauty standards and empower clients through knowledge. Known for her work as the personal hairstylist to the Obama family, Yene’s influence extends far beyond celebrity clients to mentoring the next generation of beauty professionals. In this conversation, Yene shares the story of opening her renowned Aesthetics Salon in Arlington, VA, and the challenges of finding the right location and building a team that aligns with her values. We also discuss her experience working with high-profile clients, including celebrities and Jeannette Reyes, and the trust required in those partnerships. Yene opens up about the unique aspects of being Habesha in the beauty industry, how she balances being a mom and wife while working alongside her husband, and the lessons she’s learned negotiating and running a successful business. Whether you’re an aspiring salon owner, a beauty enthusiast, or someone looking to balance entrepreneurship and family life, Yene’s journey will inspire and motivate you to think big and lead with purpose. Learn more about Yene:Yene is a renowned beauty expert, industry leader, and salon owner with nearly two decades of experience. Her impact on the beauty industry goes far beyond hairstyling; Yene is on a mission to reshape the landscape of beauty through her innovative 360-degree approach, which blends business acumen, education, and artistry.Best known as the personal hairstylist to the Obama family, Yene has built an influential career that continues to evolve. She founded and operates Aesthetics Salon in Arlington, VA, where she leads a team of top-tier stylists dedicated to delivering expert hair care while educating clients on the science and artistry behind healthy hair. Yene’s leadership has fostered an inclusive community of professionals who are redefining beauty standards and empowering clients through knowledge.A thought leader and sought-after voice in the beauty industry, Yene’s expertise has been highlighted in publications such as Allure, GQ, NPR, and Vogue. She was also honored as a “Hair Raiser” on Ulta Beauty’s prestigious Muse 100 list, celebrating the most inspirational Black voices in beauty.Beyond her accomplishments in the salon, Yene is passionate about mentoring the next generation of stylists, addressing gaps in traditional cosmetology education, and equipping her mentees with both technical skills and business savvy. As she continues to innovate and influence, Yene is expanding her reach into lifestyle spaces, with a vision to drive lasting change in the beauty industry for years to come.Her ultimate goal? Empowering clients, championing diversity, and crafting a legacy that extends beyond hairstyling—shaping the future of beauty and entrepreneurship.Connect with Yene:@yenedamtewListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Visit the show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes a Village, Delina welcomes Issa Rae for a candid discussion covering various facets of her life and career. Issa Rae is a dynamic force in entertainment, known for creating and starring in the Peabody-winning series, Insecure, and for her roles in Barbie, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and American Fiction. As the founder of HOORAE Media, Issa champions diverse storytelling across film, TV, and music. Issa’s commitment to her community in South LA shines through her investments in local businesses, including Hilltop Cafe + Kitchen, Somerville, and Sienna Naturals, a Black-owned vegan hair care line.Issa discusses her creative journey, from the early success of Awkward Black Girl to becoming a creative producer, and shares insights into the challenges of the industry, including casting, auditions, and balancing creative control on set. Rae talks about her entrepreneurial ventures and how she navigates business, and the importance of choosing investments that align with her values. Rae also shares stories about her family background, creative process, waking up early, and balancing multiple projects, painting a comprehensive picture of her approach to both her professional and personal life.Listen to Issa Rae’s inspiring story of innovation, perseverance, and creative excellence. As she says, "I’m committed to breaking boundaries and pushing the envelope," and this episode is full of wisdom for anyone striving to make their mark. Tune in now for an unforgettable conversation with one of today’s most influential creators.Learn more about Issa Rae:With her own unique flare and infectious sense of humor, Rae first received attention for her award-winning web series and the accompanying New York Times best-seller, “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.” She created and starred in the Peabody-award-winning HBO series, INSECURE, which garnered her multiple Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominations. Rae has also made her mark on the big screen, co-starring in Greta Gerwig’s BARBIE, which dominated theaters as the biggest box-office hit of 2023, SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE, Sony’s highest-grossing animated release in history and the award-winning AMERICAN FICTION.In 2020 Rae formed HOORAE, a multi-faceted media company that develops content across mediums in an effort to continue to break boundaries in storytelling and representation. HOORAE is comprised of HOORAE Media for film, tv and digital; Raedio, the music label, music supervision and "audio everywhere" company; ColorCreative, its management division; and FÊTE its marketing arm.Rae's commitment to South LA is evident in both her personal and professional pursuits. After planting roots near her childhood home, Issa set up the HOORAE headquarters in the heart of South LA. Her participation in the non-profit organization Destination Crenshaw furthers her mission of celebrating Black Angelenos and her ownership in Hilltop Cafe + Kitchen provides much-needed jobs and opportunities for local residents as well as a space for creatives to unlock their potential. Additionally, as co-owner of the Black owned and operated vegan hair care line, Sienna Naturals, Rae intends to continue to reimagine Black wellness and beauty. Rae recently launched Viarae Prosecco, a sparkling wine that's perfect for any occasion and represents the freedom to let loose and be authentic.Connect with Issa Rae:@issaraeListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comExplore this episode's show notes here.

Join us in this episode of It Takes A Village as Delina sits down with Chelsea, Sade, and Glynn, the women behind Black Girls Texting podcast and founders of Blue Water Girls, a skincare brand celebrating sunkissed skin. With their innovative tan accelerant and glow serum, Blue Water Girls advocates for responsible sun exposure and the unique beauty of all skin tones. Their journey is about building community and fostering connection, whether through their podcast or skincare brand.In this conversation, Chelsea, Sade, and Glynn share how they met, the origins of their group chat, and how they turned their bond into real-life collaboration. We explore their creative process, from brainstorming the concept to designing sustainable, skin-loving formulas and eye-catching packaging. They also talk about self-funding their business, shooting a campaign in Cuba, and launching in New York and Los Angeles. Through it all, they emphasize the importance of meeting their customers face-to-face and the challenges of navigating the retail world.Whether you’re dreaming of starting a skincare line or simply love hearing about the power of collaboration and community, or just fans of Black Girls Texting, this episode offers inspiration, real talk, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a brand to life.Learn more about Black Girls Texting/Blue Water Girls:At Blue Water Girls, we are pioneering a new era of beauty that celebrates sunkissed skin. We are a premium skincare brand specializing in a unique tan accelerant and glow serum designed to help customers achieve a beautiful, glowing tan with minimal sun exposure.We envision a world where individuals of all skin tones from deep to fair embrace the beauty of their sun kissed complexion. In a landscape of anti-sun messaging, we promote balanced and responsible sun exposure. Our nurturing, naturally derived, skin-loving formula, paired with sun protection will enhance your natural glow.Connect with Black Girls Texting/Blue Water Girls:@forbluewatergirls@blackgirlstexting@chelspinky@osaremisade@bedstuybratListen to the Black Girls Texting podcast and also check out Blue Water Girls Private Island Glow now available to purchase on the site - https://bluewatergirls.co/.Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comRead from this conversation here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, Delina speaks with Kendra Butler, founder of Alpyn Beauty. After feeling burnt out from the high-powered NYC lifestyle in the beauty industry, Kendra transitioned to a more relaxed pace in life in Jackson Hole. Personally experiencing the challenges of using beauty products in extreme climates, she was inspired to launch Alpyn Beauty, a skincare line blending wild, sustainably harvested plants with natural skincare benefits with clinically proven skincare ingredients.Kendra shares with us her transition from working with beauty brands in NY to living and starting Alpyn Beauty Bar in Jackson Hole. She talks about the challenges of curating and then crafting beauty solutions for extreme climates, getting support from retailers like Credo and Goop before having her own product line, pitching to Sephora, and what partnerships with retailers look like. We dive into the experience of harvesting wild plants in the mountains, creating her own plant-based extracts, and the behind the scenes of her well-loved Alpyn products. Kendra also shares with us the importance of sticking with your skincare routine, understanding skin purging, and what it’s like working alongside her husband. Whether you’re interested in entrepreneurship, beauty, or the journey of turning a passion into a thriving business, this episode with Kendra is filled with valuable lessons and inspiration that will motivate you to just go for it.Learn more about Kendra:A former Manhattanite and 20-year beauty industry veteran, Kendra Kolb Butler first created Alpyn Beauty for the clients at her Jackson Hole apothecary, Alpyn Beauty Bar. She’s led sales, marketing and public relations initiatives at leading luxury beauty companies from Givenchy and Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare to Clarins and Coty, yet her proudest achievement to date has been finding the courage to trade her high-power NYC lifestyle for (quite literally) greener pastures. In 2015, Kendra swapped her high-heels for hiking shoes, moving west to Wyoming in search of open spaces, fresh mountain air, and serenity—husband, baby boy, and German Shepherd in tow. She became instantly enchanted with the wild forests of arnica and chamomile, which make up her new backyard, and became the basis for Alpyn Beauty-a fast-growing skincare brand utilizing hand-harvested Jackson Hole wild plants combined with clinical ingredients. The brand is currently sold in all Sephora's nationwide as well as Amazon, Bluemercury and Credo Beauty.Connect with Kendra:@kendrakbutler@alpynbeautyGet Alpyn Beauty's Clarifying Facial Oil — a two-form retinol paired with salicylic acid + wild red raspberries from the mountains of Jackson Hole at alpynbeauty.comListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comVisit the show notes here.

S3. Ep. 51 Wow, I can’t believe we’re here—50 episodes of It Takes a Village! 🎉 I’m sitting here reflecting on everything it’s taken to get to this moment, and I just feel so much gratitude. Gratitude for this journey, for every single guest who has said “yes” to being part of this, and especially for YOU, my village—for showing up, listening, and being part of this village we’ve built together.When I started this podcast four years ago, it was honestly just me trying to figure out how to stay connected during one of the most disconnected times in our lives. It was raw, it was real, and it was just me and my voice—no fancy setups, just heart and zoom. :) And here we are now, 50 episodes later, and I can honestly say this journey has transformed me in ways I never imagined.So today, I’m inviting you into my heart and head space as I share 50 Episodes, 10 Big Lessons: What I Learned About Manifestation, Integrity, and Leadership Might Surprise You. These lessons are personal. They’re moments that changed me, shaped me, and they wouldn’t exist without the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to sit down with. From learning how manifestation really works, to understanding how attachment styles show up in business, to being reminded of the power of storytelling and the importance of staying rooted in integrity—these lessons have been my lighthouses.And because this is a celebration, I have to give a special shoutout to our 50th episode with the incomparable Tabitha Brown and Gina Woods. Honestly, sitting with them was like being wrapped in love and wisdom. It was the kind of conversation that reminds you why you started in the first place.So, grab a cup of tea or coffee (you know I love a good cozy moment), and let’s dive in. This isn’t just about my journey—it’s about OUR journey. This village we’ve built together means everything to me, and I hope today’s reflections remind you of just how powerful, capable, and connected we all are.I love you. Let’s do this.00:00 Welcome and Milestone Celebration00:28 Evolution of the Podcast00:54 The Purpose and Integrity of the Show02:13 Listener Feedback and Show Impact03:35 Highlighting the 50th Episode05:09 Manifestation and Visualization09:57 Building with Integrity and Standards13:43 Attachment Styles in Business19:14 Family and Friendships Matter23:12 The Power of Storytelling24:27 The Journey of Improvement25:40 Mastering the Art of Pitching28:44 The Power of Vulnerability31:27 Passion-Driven Ventures33:17 Understanding Your 'Why'38:28 The Pitfalls of Flexing42:15 Final Reflections and EncouragementInstagram ⁠@delinamedhin ⁠TikTok ⁠@delinamedhin⁠⁠ittakesavillagepodcast.com⁠⁠delinamedhin.comShow notes available here.

Join us in this episode of It Takes A Village as Delina sits with Tabitha Brown and Gina Woods, co-founders of Donna’s Recipe. Tabitha, known as “America’s Mom”, is an Emmy award winning actress, NYT bestselling author, and executive producer and host of Food Network’s “It’s CompliPlated.” Gina is a serial social entrepreneur, investor, and business mentor, leading a business mastermind program empowering women to kickstart and expand their ventures and has advised multiple businesses to multi-million dollar companies. Together they make up Donna’s Recipe, which consists of nutrient-rich, clean, vegan ingredients that will keep you coming back and staying consistent on your hair care journey. Tabitha and Gina take us with them to the beginning of their friendship, Tabitha naming her hair Donna, developing their partnership, and the exciting story of creating Donna’s Recipe together. We get to learn about their journey together in creating content, community building, decision making in their business, making Sweet Potato Pie, challenges of going direct to consumer sales, making products affordable, being self-funded, and their roles and responsibilities as co-founders.Whether you are one of Donna’s Cousins or eager to learn more about direct to consumer strategies, this episode is for you. Tabitha and Gina will inspire you and give you the push you need to start that business you’ve always wanted to.Learn more about Tabitha:Tabitha Brown satisfies the hunger of millions with her unique approach to veganism and her wholesome, comedic personality. From teaching people new recipes, giving a word of wisdom or enjoying a good laugh, she has become “America’s Mom” to her 13 million plus followers. The North Carolina born, Emmy award winning actress, vegan food personality, mother and wife is a three-time, New York Times bestselling author, multi-NAACP Image Award Winner. She has acted in notable theatrical features on major networks such as Showtime’s, “The Chi", Executive produced and hosted Food Network’s first-ever, vegan cooking competition show, “It’s CompliPlated” and co-created and hosts her own children’s show, Tab Time.Learn more about Gina:Gina Woods is a social entrepreneur, investor, and business advisor with a 15-year track record of creating and developing successful beauty brands that prioritize community reinvestment. As a business mentor, Woods leads a business mastermind program empowering women to kickstart and expand their ventures. She has advised multiple businesses to multi-million dollar companies. Additionally, Woods established the LA Kids Entrepreneur Camp, an in-person hands-on educational program for young minds to engage with accomplished entrepreneurs and delve into the essentials of entrepreneurship.Connect with Tabitha and Gina:@iamtabithabrown@ginalosangelesGet their NEW Whipped Vanilla Cream Styling Collection with real vanilla and biotin at www.donnasrecipe.comListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comAccess the full show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, Delina sits with long-time friend and colleague, Felicia Leatherwood. Felicia is among the world’s most celebrated and acclaimed beauty professionals in natural hair care and education. Counting notable clients such as Issa Rae, Lenny Kravitz, Simone Missick, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Sonequa Martin-Green, Ava Duvernay, and Viola Davis. Felicia also developed Texture Management and invented and founded her critically-acclaimed, award winning and patented product line, Brush with the Best.Felicia shares with us her extensive experience being on set, doing international films, traveling for work and developing a love for travel, prepping before a big job, learning from all the people you work with, and giving back to the younger generation of artists. She tells us of Jill Scott and Lenny Kravitz’ impact in her career and how she stays grounded and close to hairstyling. We will also learn all about her starting Brush with the Best and Texture Management. With everything she has done and is doing, her learnings on self-worth and spirituality will also resonate with anyone who listens. Continuing her mission to spread her message of self-love ever further, Felicia is set to release her highly anticipated book with Simon & Schuster titled Root Therapy.Whether you are listening as a fan of Felicia or simply wanting to absorb all the knowledge that comes with her experience in the industry, tune in to this episode. It has everything you’d expect and more coming from a full-fledged global hair guru and business founder.Learn more about Felicia:As the leading expert in natural hair, Felicia Leatherwood’s larger-than-life career goes beyond just Hollywood – she’s a full-fledged global hair guru. Numbering among the world’s most celebrated and acclaimed beauty professionals, Felicia’s well-established career is built on her fluency in – and deep love for – natural hair care and education. Counting notable clients such as Issa Rae and Emmy nominated productions such as Insecure, American Fiction and Barbie, Grammy winning Lenny Kravitz, Simone Missick (All Rise), Ryan Michelle Bathe (The Endgame), Sonequa Martin-Green (Star Trek: Discovery), Oscar-nominated director Ava Duvernay, and Oscar winner Viola Davis. In between conducting hair care workshops for audiences around the globe, Felicia developed Texture Management, a collective of premiere hair and makeup artists around the country specializing in celebrity clientele in the entertainment industry. Felicia also invented and founded her critically-acclaimed, award winning and patented product line, Brush with the Best, which has earned accolades from customers and industry pros alike. Continuing her mission to spread her message of self-love ever further, Felicia is set to release her highly anticipated book with Simon & Schuster titled Root Therapy.Connect with Felicia:IG: @FelicialeatherwoodFB: @Lovingyourhair Brush with the Best and the Felicia Leatherwood Detangler Brush was the FIRST brush invented by Felicia that was strategically designed around the flexibility necessary to work with kinkier hair. Get yours at www.brushwiththebest.com.Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comSee all the details in the show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village we are joined by one of Delina’s good friends, Kayla Greaves, one of the most sought-after and authoritative voices in the beauty and wellness sector. From starting as a writer and editor in Bustle and InStyle interviewing celebrities to working with SheaMoisture, Ulta, and Augustinus Bader in brand campaigns as well as being an expert commentator on HBO’s The Beauty of Blackness and Netflix’s the Black Beauty Effect, Kayla has without a doubt established how her voice has weight in influencing the industry.Kayla shares with us her experience growing up in Toronto and being encouraged to write from the support of one of her teachers. From writing in the classroom to becoming a successful journalist, getting her Extraordinary Ability Visa and moving to New York, working in Bustle and InStyle, she takes us with her through it all. We also learn a thing or two about being a writer, editor, journalist, and also how developing relationships and your network is important when getting expert sources for your work. As she continues on her journey, we pick up tips on transitioning to becoming an influencer and now an entrepreneur and working for herself. Learning all sorts of skills from all her careers has brought Kayla to now having a product collaboration with Brown Sugar Babe called It Girl.Whether you are in the middle of a pivot in your career or interested in working in the media space, Kayla’s expertise and inspiring stories, coupled with her gift for storytelling, this episode is for you. Listen in and be part of this captivating conversation.Learn more about Kayla:With over 12 years of media experience, Kayla Greaves has become one of the most sought-after and authoritative voices in the beauty and wellness sector—both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Kayla can be seen in brand campaigns for major companies like SheaMoisture, Ulta, and Augustinus Bader as well as an expert commentator on HBO’s The Beauty of Blackness and Netflix’s The Black Beauty Effect. Starting her career as an editor, Kayla has interviewed dozens of notable celebrities over the years, like Tracee Ellis Ross, Pharrell, and Naomi Campbell, just to name a few. Previously holding the title of Executive Beauty Editor at InStyle—and with bylines at prestigious publications such as Vogue, ELLE, and Allure—Kayla’s expertise, coupled with her gift for sparking fun and captivating conversations, has launched the next phase of her career as a true multi-hyphenated storyteller, on-camera talent, and beauty authority.Connect with Kayla:@KaylaAGreavesListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comFull show notes available here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, we have Brooklyn native and Los Angeles-based Denise Vasi, founder of Maed Beauty. Denise has been known for her modeling and acting career before she pivoted to the digital sector and now as a brand founder. Her influence in the beauty and wellness spaces has brought her awards from Create & Cultivate’s Top 100 to Boss Women of the Year, paving new paths for all women to succeed.Denise shares with us her journey as a young model and actress and how her experience also led to meeting her husband. She talks about the importance of networking and relationships in the industry and adapting to changes that happen in your life, including pivoting to social media and digital when the time called for it. As a great storyteller, we are captivated by her recalling every pivot of her journey from modeling, to acting, to growing her own community, creating Maed Beauty, creating a product, building her team, overcoming challenges in producing her formula, and manifesting getting in the Sephora Accelerate Program on her first try.Whether you start listening to the episode as a fan or interested in learning how to pitch and get into programs like Sephora’s, this episode is meant for you. Denise’s life story, led with authenticity and passion, continues to inspire us and everyone around her.Learn more about Denise:Brooklyn native and Los Angeles-based Denise Vasi is the founder of Maed Beauty, a clean beauty brand that centers the importance of daily beauty rituals for people who lead multifaceted lives. Everything Maed Beauty creates and champions is through an elevated, experiential lens. The debut collection prioritizes the ritual of lip care with a modern, skincare-first approach.Denise’s career began in the fashion industry, where she graced the pages of iconic magazines such as Vogue, Glamour, and Elle. She also made her mark on television as the star of VH1’s scripted show “Single Ladies.” Her successful pivot into the digital sector has further solidified her influence in the beauty and wellness spaces.In 2018, Denise was recognized as one of Create & Cultivate’s Top 100, an annual list honoring 100 inspiring and successful women disrupting the digital industry. She was further celebrated in 2020 as one of the Boss Women of the Year, highlighting female entrepreneurs of color who are paving new paths for all women to succeed.Denise’s latest venture, Maed Beauty, set to debut in 2024, marks a significant milestone in her career. This new chapter is underscored by her inclusion in Sephora’s prestigious Accelerate program, which supports and amplifies the work of innovative beauty entrepreneurs.Denise uses social media to share her expertise in clean beauty, health and wellness routines, and self-care rituals with an ever-growing, dedicated audience. Her honest and intentional approach has attracted partnerships with like-minded brands such as Sephora, Amazon, Pampers, and American Express.Denise splits her time between Los Angeles and New York City with her husband, Anthony, and their two children, continuing to inspire and lead with authenticity and passion.Connect with Denise:@denisevasi@maedbeautySign up at maedbeauty.com for invites to community events + early product testing as well as launch news!Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comSee all the details in the show notes here.

Join us in this episode of It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin where we sit down and talk to Feven and Helena Yohannes, twin sisters and Co-Founders of 2•4•1 Cosmetics. This interview shows our shared love for our Eritrean culture and the similarities in growing up first generation in the United States.Listen in as Feven and Helena tell us their birth story in a refugee camp in Sudan, immigrating to the United States, and growing up in Rochester. They share their twin-sense stories from getting a terrible feeling when one got into an accident, and being beside each other while Helena gives birth. The unconditional love and support they get from each other and their family is truly inspirational. We also dive into starting 2•4•1 Cosmetics, where the name came from, being self-funded, overcoming challenges during the pandemic, having Bobbi Brown as a mentor, and manifesting their Oprah moment where they earned spots on Oprah’s Favorite Things List in both 2020 and 2022Whether you are listening for awareness or just love founder stories, you know this episode is for you. Tune in to this week’s episode and be inspired with Feven and Helena’s commitment to empowering women through beauty, one eyeliner at a time.Learn more about Feven and Helena:Feven and Helena Yohannes are the Co-Founders of 2•4•1 Cosmetics, an effortless and clean beauty brand that embodies confidence, kindness, and integrity. The privately-owned company, which they launched together, quickly carved out its niche in the beauty industry, earning spots on Oprah’s Favorite Things List in both 2020 and 2022. Today, 2•4•1 Cosmetics is available at major retailers such as Bloomingdale’s, Amazon, and QVC.Originally from Eritrea, the twins were born in a refugee camp in Sudan and immigrated to the United States at the age of two through the American Refugee Resettlement Program. Feven earned her degree in Media & Communications with a minor in Art History from Hobart & William Smith Colleges, while Helena studied Government and Sociology at Skidmore College. Now based in Los Angeles, where their company is headquartered, Feven enjoys interior design and cooking plant-based meals, while Helena is in her girl mom era raising her little girl, Arsema and listening to audiobooks. Both are deeply committed to empowering women through beauty, one eyeliner at a time.Connect with Feven and Helena:@241cosmetics @thereal_Feven @thereal_HelenaListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comDive into the full show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village, we are joined by Diann Valentine, President and Creative Director of Glow + Flow Beauty and founder of SLAYYY Hair. Diann is revolutionizing the shopping experience for black women and creating environments where they feel at home as valued customers.Diann shares with us how she started her illustrious career from wedding and event planning to becoming an author, international public speaker, television host, and founder. She takes us with her as we feel all the emotions while telling her story of how she is always led by love and how it has inspired and moved her. Even starting Glow + Flow Beauty and developing the SLAYYY Secret Sauce was for her love of her neighborhood and self. Her love of personal touch and human interaction allows her to excite audiences and mesmerize them with her years of production and life experiences wrapped in an electrifying smile.Whether you are in it to hear the amazing works of Diann or learn a thing or two about marketing and pitching to retailers, this episode is for you. Just like Diann and her inspiration for SLAYYY, this episode’s a little bit classy with just the right amount of hood to keep it black.Learn more about Diann:Diann Valentine founded SLAYYY Hair in 2021 after years of wearing braids and experiencing increased itching, scalp irritation, scabbing, and breakage regularly. Determined to find a healthier and non-toxic solution, she developed what has become known as the SLAYYY Secret Sauce. After two years of intense research, trial and error, and invaluable feedback from the strong community of braiders around the country, SLAYYY was born. “Women deserve more care and respect for our contribution to the hair and beauty industry, and I’m so proud to champion this movement on behalf of my sisters and now able to offer black women a superior product while wearing protective styles.," says Diann.Diann is also the President and Creative Director of Glow + Flow Beauty, a beauty retail concept store in Inglewood and Hawthorne, California. Glow + Flow Beauty reimagines the shopping experience for black women, creating an environment in urban neighborhoods where they feel at home as valued customers. The expansion plan for Glow + Flow Beauty involves a franchise model of land and business ownership through collaborating with black women, financiers, and organizations. Diann believes that the best way to change the trajectory of a community is for the residents to own it, and every urban community needs a Glow + Flow.Before entering the beauty space, Diann enjoyed an illustrious career as an internationally acclaimed wedding and event designer, producing celebrations for celebrities, high-net-worth individuals, and Fortune 500 companies across the globe. Her achievements include being a two-time author, international public speaker, and television host turning dreams into reality for women in love and those looking for love. With a flourishing business and career, Diann has inspired many during domestic and international speaking engagements. Her love of personal touch and human interaction allow her to excite audiences and mesmerize them with her years of production and life experiences wrapped in an electrifying smile.As a proud black woman, Valentine is a pioneer. With many titles above her head, Diann is just getting started.Connect with Diann:@slayyy_hair_ and @diannvalentineRemember to post your SLAYYY experiences on SLAYYY Day, July 1.We are also happy to share that master braider, Pearl the Stylist, a trusted expert in the community, is now a SLAYYY Certified Braider!Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.comVisit the show notes here.

In this episode of It Takes A Village podcast, Delina and Amy Liu, Founder and CEO of the best-selling clean beauty brand Tower28, sit down and talk about skincare, representation, and entrepreneurship. Amy graduated from University of California at San Diego, received an MBA in entrepreneurship from The University of Southern California, and led a long successful career as an executive in the beauty industry. But as a longtime eczema sufferer, she saw the need and opportunity to launch Tower28, a brand completely designed for sensitive skin and made for all.Tower 28 SOS Spray, Swipe Concealer Amy takes us with her as she shares her journey of growing up Chinese in LA and how it has impacted her decisions and perception of success. She took on the corporate world working with prestige companies including Smashbox, Kate Somerville and Josie Maran Cosmetics. After taking a well deserved break to be with family, she was presented with the opportunity to realize her lifelong dream of having her own brand. Amy shares preparing to start Tower 28, raising funding, adhering to National Eczema Association’s guidelines, scaling the company, pitching to Sephora, and spearheading the mentorship program Clean Beauty Summer School, which supports the growth of BIPOC-owned small beauty brands and content creators. Amy has grown Tower 28 into a household name, beloved by countless customers, makeup artists, tastemakers, and celebrities alike. Whether you’re in it to learn more about eczema and skincare, pivoting careers, balancing mom life with business, or growing a company, this episode is for you. Tune in and be inspired to take risks, accept the love and support from your village, and finally go for your dream.Learn more about Amy:Amy Liu is the Founder and CEO of the best-selling clean beauty brand Tower 28. After graduating from the University of California at San Diego, Amy had a brief stint in consulting and later received an MBA in entrepreneurship from The University of Southern California. Amy then led a successful 20 year career as an executive in the beauty industry, helping build some of the fastest growing companies, including Smashbox, Kate Somerville and Josie Maran Cosmetics. But as a longtime eczema sufferer, she couldn’t enjoy the best part of the job: trying out all the products! She saw this as an opportunity, and in 2019 Amy launched Tower 28: a beauty company designed for sensitive skin, and made for all. Tower 28 is the first beauty brand to adhere to the National Eczema Association’s guidelines, making formulas that are 100 percent clean, vegan, accessible, and free of every known skin irritant. Amy’s pioneering work in the industry, including the mentorship program Clean Beauty Summer School in 2020, which supports the growth of BIPOC-owned small beauty brands and content creators, has not gone unnoticed. Since launching Tower 28, Amy has received USC Entrepreneur of the Year Award, CEW Visionary Award, Create & Cultivate 100 List, WWD’s 2023 Power Brands, Inc’s 2023 Female Founders 200 List, and EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Greater Los Angeles Award, and regularly participates as a teacher and mentor with the Sephora Accelerate incubation program. By adhering steadfastly to Tower 28’s mission (and reminding everyone #ItsOkayToBeSensitive), Amy has grown Tower 28 into a household name, beloved by countless customers, makeup artists, tastemakers, and celebrities alike. Connect with Amy:@tower28beauty and @amyliu_t28Get Tower28's newest products, OneLiner shade extension and SOS Daily Balancing Gel Cleanser, at www.tower28beauty.com!Listen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com Access the show notes here.

Our next guest in It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin is the renowned LA-based celebrity makeup artist and men’s groomer, Tasha Reiko Brown. As an ambassador and collaborator with Chanel Beauty, her talent and fresh approach to beauty and skincare has made her a favorite with clients such as Alicia Keys, Jaden Smith, Gabrielle Union, Logan Browning, Michael B Jordan, Jaime Foxx, Common, Lupita Nyong’o, Tracee Ellis Ross, Denzel Washington, Regé-Jean Page, Dev Patel, and many others.In this episode, Tasha talks to Delina about growing up in LA, going to NY and being a graffiti artist (and getting caught!), and transitioning to people and makeup. Working with the famous Rock photographer, Ross Halfin, has introduced her to some of the world’s greatest and most famous guitar heroes. She talks about touring with Jill Scott and how it has developed her into becoming a better artist. Her confidence and excellence in her work can be seen in all aspects of her life, whether as an artist, an entrepreneur, or a mom. And as a true introvert, she also talks about how she has made her home the place she is happiest to be in and how much she loves spending time with her son.Whether you’re listening in to learn more about having celebrity and rockstar clients or wanting to be inspired by the art, this episode has it all for you. Tasha is quite literally, living her wildest dreams everyday, and you can too. Learn more about Tasha:Tasha Reiko Brown is a Los Angeles based makeup artist and Men’s Groomer. Tasha is an ambassador and collaborator with Chanel Beauty and Boy de Chanel. Brown’s talent and fresh approach to beauty and skincare has made her a favorite with clients such as Alicia Keys, Jaden Smith, Gabrielle Union, Logan Browning, Michael B Jordan, Jaime Foxx, Common, Lupita Nyong’o, Tracee Ellis Ross, Denzel Washington, Regé-Jean Page, Dev Patel, and many others. Her work can be seen in the pages of publications such as Vogue, GQ, Elle, Numero, Dazed, Time Magazine, Marie Claire, Glamour, and The Hollywood Reporter amongst others. Her advertising credits include David Yurman Jewelry, Propel, Movado, Olay, True Botanicals and Ralph Lauren. Her beauty expertise is often called upon for fashion and makeover shows and media outlets. Connect with Tasha:@tashareikobrownListen to more episodes of It Takes A Village podcast:⁠It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin⁠Stay updated on everything It Takes A Village podcast:⁠@ittakesavillagepod⁠⁠www.ittakesavillagepod.com⁠Connect with Delina:⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠⁠TikTok @delinamedhin⁠⁠YouTube @delinamedhin⁠⁠Twitter @delinamedhin⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠www.delinamedhin.com