Tarek Ali is no stranger to sharing his healing and trauma with the world. Tarek has been creating content online for over a decade as a YouTuber, advocate, author, writer, and healer. In a radically vulnerable approach to engaging online, Tarek’s audience has journeyed with him as he healed relationships with others and himself. This week we sat d…

Kendra Bracken-Ferguson knows that Black beauty brands and their founders need capital and community to circumvent systemic racism at the heart of venture capital funding. As the Founder and CEO of Braintrust Founders Studio Kendra uses her experience identifying talent and innovation to provide companies the support they require to succeed. In thi…

During our initial conversation, Erica Chidi shared so much knowledge about intimacy, wellness, and how to develop positive sexual experiences with our partners and ourselves. That conversation led us to discuss some common myths about sex and vaginal health. Tune in as we discuss: Why she believes “sex is food and food is sex” How to prioritize co…

“Our culture isn’t designed for intimacy or time with your partner…it’s about capitalism.” To have positive experiences with sex and intimacy Erica Chidi knows that we have to “keep in contact” with our bodies. Erica is a Wellbeing Guide and the CEO & Founder of Loom, an app that provides reliable information about women’s reproductive health. It w…

Exploring beyond the limits of topical beauty treatments, and into the world of cosmetic technology can often feel daunting, or even deceptive in today’s social media landscape. So, I wanted to use this episode to break through the clutter and take you all on an audio tour of an increasingly popular treatment: PRFM or PRP. For those who may not be …

"My Skin Didn't Start To Change Until I Changed The Energy Around Me." - Alicia Keys, Grammy-award winning artist, beauty entrepreneur and today's Naked Beauty podcast guest! I could not have been more excited for this interview! With braids and makeup choices that have influenced beauty culture for decades, I had the opportunity to go deep with Al…

So often, what we define as “wellness” in today’s world, can end up feeling like an expensive and unnecessary set of demands that leave us drained rather than fulfilled. Fortunately, health coach Daphne Javitch is here for real talk on how to feel more (as she puts it) “resourced”. After a long and painful journey with endometriosis, Daphne was ins…

Before there was a “clean” beauty movement, there was Indigenous beauty. Before sustainability and naturally-derived ingredients were cool, there was Indigenous beauty. Jenn Harper, Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, is here to remind us that Indigenous culture’s contributions to beauty have always been and continue to be at the center of this in…

After months of eager anticipation, Beyoncé, Ms.Tina Knowles and a team of hardworking experts have delivered on arguably one of the most important celebrity beauty ventures that we’ve seen in a long time: Cécred (pronounced “sacred”). Having received an invite to attend the debut of this haircare line and going home with all of the products, tune …

“It feels like love is being stitched into your head” When it comes to Black beauty culture, braiding is arguably one of the most important rituals that we can participate in. Not only is it a form of wearable art, but it’s a way to build relationship and community with others. Tune in as I sit down with Naked Beauty producer Mbiye Kasonga and soon…

“I had been waiting for her to 36 years…there was a lot to say.” - Crystal Anderson The relationship between love and beauty is an inseparable one. Whether it is self-love or love for another human being, beauty is almost always the end result. Producer Crystal Anderson and her partner Kiesh Herman couldn’t be a more exemplary model of this truth. …

One of my favorite things about traveling is exploring another culture or society through the lens of beauty. As founder of global and evergrowing makeup brand Violette FR, I knew that Violette would also have a rich perspective on this topic. Tune in as we discuss her favorite cities, how to protect your skin while traveling and how she derives in…

As the beauty industry continues to overload the market with new products and new “problems”, dermatologists like Dr. Naana Boakye are becoming even more essential to the skincare conversation. Having coined the term “lifestyle dermatology”, Dr. Boakye strongly believes that stress, diet, exercise, and all of our daily habits show up on the skin. T…

MUA, creator, and businesswoman Violette has built a reputation as one of the most hardworking and dedicated women in the beauty industry - and for good reason. Despite having no formal training, at just 19 years old, Violette had the vision to create one-of-a-kind pigments and to build a career on her own terms. Today, the red lipsticks, blue eyes…

Episode Description: As many of us jump into the new year with high hopes of reevaluating and shifting our daily habits, my relationship with alcohol has been top of mind. While drinking has always been in the background of my social and professional life, its side effects have never been particularly enjoyable. And after moving to LA, now more tha…

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of hosting a number of world-renowned dermatologists that can speak to the common skincare issues that we all face. From addressing hyperpigmentation to creating a solid routine with products that work for your skin type, we discuss it all. Tune in as we tune back to interviews with: Dr. Elena Jones on hyperpig…

The conversation continues with Telsha Anderson-Boone, who discusses how she manifested her perfect cool bride look. As we step into 2024, what vision of your elevated self do you want to achieve in the new year? Naked Beauty x Garin Robe Lessons in Style & Motherhood ft. Telsha Anderson-Boone, TA Telsha Anderson-Boone Wore a Dance-Ready Danielle F…

Episode Description: While many can easily identify Sir John as makeup artist to some of the most influential women in the world, few know exactly how he got there and - perhaps even more interestingly - how he’s managed to stay grounded through it all. With a name that’s fit for a king, one could argue that Sir John was destined for a career focus…

Fashion founder, owner and buyer Telsha Anderson-Boone wasn’t what the industry expected. But as it turns out, she was exactly what it needed. After seeing a lack of curated brick and mortar experiences for up-and-coming labels, Telsha opened T.a. down in New York’s Meatpacking district. Now, three years later, Telsha is a mom, wife and LA transpla…

Sarah Brown, Executive Director of Violet Grey and former Vogue Beauty Editor, has been a staple in the world of beauty editorial and brand curation. Even when I was an intern at Vogue, I was truly in awe of her work and sense of style. Tune in to hear us discuss growing up in New York, her journey to the beauty industry , her infamous article “Wha…

After falling in love with a luxurious candle on a trip to a Paris, Kudzi Chikumbu’s love for the story and thought behind candles was born. Now, through his social media persona of “Sir Candle Man”, Kudzi is considered an expert within the candle and fragrance space, sharing his tips and tricks for finding the perfect product with the world. Tune …

Fresh from my trip back in New York, I reflect on all that’s happened this week. My very first Naked Beauty product has launched! I designed the ultimate cashmere robe for self-care with Garin. Designing this robe with my good friend Negarin has been many months in the making and every little detail was considered to make this piece a true luxury. …

After seven years of telling incredible beauty stories and building a passionate community of beauty fanatics, I’ve watched this show evolve beyond my wildest dreams. P.S. As I recorded this episode, I was wearing my new Naked Beauty cashmere robe that I designed with Garin. The first 20 orders will get 15% off with Brooke15! With such brand evolut…

Episode Description: Camille Darby, Global Vice President of Brand Marketing at Condé Nast, is the woman responsible for bringing all of your favorite editorial brands to life! Whether it’s Architectural Digest, Allure, Glamour, or Self, Camille’s north star is storytelling. Tune in as we discuss her background as a playwright, growing up as a Jama…

Underpainting, pressed powder, color correction, contour, setting spray oh my! The full beat is alive and well and Blake Newby is here to walk you through all of the steps of her camera-ready routine. Tune in for her favorite makeup products, tips, tricks and more. Link to Resources/Products: Shop Blake’s Episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv…

Writer, content creator and longtime beauty industry expert Blake Newby is here on Naked Beauty, ready to discuss her journey to and beyond the world of editorial. Tune in as Newby reflects on growing up with distorted standards of beauty, falling in love with her identity at an HBCU, becoming Essence’s beauty and style editor, navigating the “pay …

Tune in for a LIVE episode of Naked Beauty, coming straight from the annual EveryStylishGirl Sip N’ Slay event in LA! This year, as Nana Agyemang’s platform continued to bring together a vibrant community of Black women, I had the privilege of interviewing Television Host Kamie Crawford and Beauty Reporter Darian Harvin. Check out our discussion on…

Tune in for an extension of my interview with Ourside founder Keta Burke-Williams, who sat down to discuss tips and tricks for finding your next signature scent. From sampler kits, to researching top notes, to approaching good smelling strangers on the street, there was so much to take away from this conversation! Products/Resources: Nishane (Ani),…

Episode Description: Makeup artist Danessa Myricks makes products that simply cannot be ignored. And as a Black makeup artist who was self-taught and launched her career at 30, reinvention and innovation always bound to be at the center of her brand. Tune in for this unforgettable conversation on her pathway to success, advocating for the inclusion…

After eight years of working in beauty editorial, Maya Allen has become one of THE coolest girls in the industry. But that hasn’t been without tons of hard work. On this episode of Naked Beauty, Marie Claire’s Digital Beauty Editor not only broke down her extensive skincare routine, but her continuous journey to dominating the beauty sphere as well…

Paula’s Choice Director of Applied Research & Education Desiree Stordahl is back for a deep dive on vitamin C - a skincare ingredient that has been proven to protect and enhance the skin barrier time and time again. Tune in as she explains what vitamin C actually is, its role in preventing free radical damage, the most effective ways to store it, h…

Tune in as I sit down with friend of the pod Desiree Stordahl, Director of Applied Research & Education at Paula's Choice, to demystify the world skincare. As this industry becomes increasingly more complicated (and even intimidating), Stordahl helps to break down the power behind simple, yet effective holy skincare ingredients like vitamin C, reti…

Like me, Jamie Morse Heidegger’s appreciation for a good sunscreen runs deep. And as the founder of anti-aging skincare brand Retrouvé, her knowledge of the very best tips, tricks, and products for sun protection is expansive. Tune in as as we discuss why sun protection is now more important than ever, her preference for physical vs. chemical sunsc…

My recent trip to Tokyo was a strong reminder of why Japanese beauty and culture continues to be such a dominate force in the market. Tune in for a beauty dispatch from Japan, where I break down the beauty products I found at local drugstore Don Quijote, the treatments I got, historical background on Shiseido's innovative marketing and products I'm…

While the WNBA has been around for over two decades, the extremely talented athletes and women who make up the league are just now being recognized on a global scale, particularly within the world of beauty. Tune in as I sit down with Washington Mystics’ Ariel Atkins (@iamarielatkins) and the Minnesota Lynx’s Natalie Achonwa (@natachon11) to break …

Born into the family that once owned cult classic brand Kiehl’s, Jami Morse Heidegger is nothing short of skincare royalty. Today, Jami and her husband Klaus have launched Retrouvé, their own new family venture, that continues to focus on just that. Tune in as I sit down with Jami to discuss her childhood, her decision to sell the brand after becom…

Fashion expert and Queer Eye, and Next in Fashion host, Tan France, is truly one of a kind. I got to collaborate with my dear friend and host of Driven Minds, Gillian Sagansky, on this special episode where we talk to Tan about everything from struggling with depression to the power of the clothes we wear. You don't want to miss this episode! Stay …

One of the ultimate acts of self love is taking care of yourself when no one is around. Tune in for a fantastic extension of my interview with Candice Brathwaite, where she breaks down how she uses elevated products to make even the most casual moments feel special. Links to Products: SLEEPER loungewear, Byredo Bal D’Afrique, Fenty fragrance, Chane…

Author, journalist, TV presenter, fellow podcaster and creator Candice Brathwaite-Aboderin is here on the pod and ready to talk through the evolution of her relationship with beauty. From her tomboy phase where she was completely uninterested in appearances, to her dancehall girl phase battling breakouts for the first time, to life as a mom helping…

Keta Burke-Williams, founder of “unconventional yet intimate” fragrance brand Ourside was just what the industry of traditionally Eurocentric fragrance needed to shake things up. As the daughter of a Jamaican mother and African American father growing up in Dayton, Ohio, Keta never quite felt like she fit in and was always looking for ways to escap…

With the creator economy projected to be worth $200 billion by the year 2026, many (including myself) are seeking to pivot out of the traditional 9-5 and into a career of entrepreneurship, centered around media and content. Which is why this episode featuring three of my incredible peer mentors and friends who have transitioned into full-time creat…

Episode Description: These days, celebrities, influencers, and brand partnerships seem to be inextricably linked - but not always for the most intentional reasons. Tune in for this bonus episode where artist KESH, a highly experienced brand collaborator, reflects on how she would like to see creators go beyond the cash grab and “mismash of ‘release…

“A lot of people are successful because they were just too driven to hear people drown out their dreams. You have to have the strength of conviction, have faith and bet on yourself. If it’s safe and it was that easy, everyone would do it.” - My mother, Jerri DeVard After more than a decade working in the corporate world, I’ve decided to bet on myse…

On the surface, hand washing can feel like a mundane routine that’s just a simple and practical part of life. But given that we do it 5-10 times a day, using a hand soap you love can actually make a huge impact! Whether you make your own soap or splurge on a more luxurious option, taking the time to invest in this ritual is well worth the cost. Tun…

Some creatives are truly in a league of their own and this guest has always stood out as someone pushing aesthetic boundaries all while being incredibly thoughtful. Artist, singer, designer, muse, creative director, and Tumblr icon KESH has never been too interested in adhering to the typical standards of beauty. She effortlessly rocks red eyeliner…

Today, at more than 250 episodes into Naked Beauty, I wanted to take a moment to pause and reflect on the question that started it all: When do you feel most beautiful? Tune in for a rerun of the 100th episode of the show, which served as a compilation of answers to this exact question. From glamming it up to sweating it out, from meditating to hav…

“It’s outrageous how little we’re considered. In dermatology books, they almost never feature Brown or Black skin tones. That means in a nation where the majority of our kids are Brown or Black, we’re not even preparing for the world as it is right now.” - John Legend When EGOT-winning artist John Legend was approached to start a skincare company, …

Starting her career off in a world where beauty and wellness were in the shadows of the fashion industry, Julie Schott would’ve never guessed that people would one day fall in love with her products that seem to celebrate all of life’s imperfections. Since its founding, Starface (you know the pimple patches), has sold more than 77 million yellow Hy…

Between my recent move to LA and navigating a few pesky skin issues, sunscreen has been on my mind more than ever before. Which is exactly why this extension of my conversation with Bryan Barron, Paula’s Choice Director of Skincare Research, felt so timely! Tune in to hear: [3:14] Hourglass’s New Equilibrium Retinoid Treatment, which I’ve fallen in…

Between the hair appointments, facials, pedicures, and lash extensions, finding the right beauty professionals to partner with and keep you looking your best is no easy task. Thankfully, I’ve tapped three incredible members of the Naked Beauty community to share their pro-tips on how to build out that perfect roster of beauty MVPs. Tune in as I sit…