Behind Her Empire

Nancy Twine is the founder of Briogeo, one of the first clean haircare brands to land in Sephora, and eventually one of the fastest-growing in the category.But her story didn’t start in beauty. Nancy began her career in finance, landing a role at Goldman Sachs in 2007, right as the global financial crisis hit. By her mid-twenties, she was a VP on Wall Street. Then, everything changed in 2010 when she lost her mother unexpectedly. That moment reshaped her purpose and gave her the clarity to build something of her own. With no background in chemistry or beauty,  she started Briogeo from her tiny New York apartment—self-funding it for six years, researching at the public library, and pitching investors with just drawings, all while working full-time. Briogeo launched in 2013 with four products. Within a year, Nancy cold-emailed her way into Sephora, becoming the youngest Black woman to launch a line with the retailer. In 2022, Briogeo was acquired by Wella Company.In today’s episode, Nancy talks about the mindset and grit it took to keep going when the path ahead wasn’t clear, and how learning to trust her instincts changed everything for her. We talk about how she taught herself the beauty industry from scratch, and why believing in herself, even when the odds were stacked against her, became her greatest strength. She shares the early days of Briogeo, building the brand at night while working on Wall Street, pitching investors and getting many rejections, and navigating the challenges of growth. She also reflects on the pivotal moment with Sephora, the decision to finally walk away from her corporate job, and how she grew into the role of CEO as the company scaled.Nancy opens up about selling Briogeo, what it meant to let go of something she built from scratch, and why she’s now focused on mentoring other women founders through her new platform, Makers Mindset. If you’ve ever questioned your timing, doubted your path, or needed a reminder of what’s possible when you bet on yourself, you’re going to love this episode. In this episode, we’ll talk to Nancy about:* The mindset needed to overcome entrepreneurial challenges. [02:57]* Cultivating confidence and shutting down self-doubt. [05:18]* How her mother and grandmother shaped her upbringing. [07:46]* How personal loss sparked a life and career reevaluation. [17:04]* Nancy’s first steps in starting Briogeo. [18:47]* A pivotal moment: meeting Sephora buyers. [23:59]* Lessons from fundraising journey. [25:44]* The power of self-belief in entrepreneurship. [28:41]* Leaving a secure job to pursue a passion. [38:36]* Why selling the business was strategic. [46:19]* Transforming Nancy’s passion into new ventures. [49:33]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Nancy: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nancytwine/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briogeo/* Website: https://www.briogeohair.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luna Aziz is the founder and CEO of Legendairy Milk, a wellness brand known for its lactation support and holistic products for women navigating motherhood and beyond.But Legendairy Milk didn’t start as a business. It started with Luna as a new mom struggling with chronic low milk supply and asking one question no one could answer: why? So she did the unglamorous work herself. She researched what women across cultures had used for centuries, ground herbs in her kitchen with a coffee grinder, filled capsules by hand using a pill machine from eBay, and tested everything on herself. With just $750 and a newborn, she opened a tiny Etsy shop, expecting maybe one order a month, until a single Facebook post brought in 50 orders overnight and she turned her hobby into a business then.In this episode, Luna shares how curiosity became her unfair advantage, taking her from postpartum survival mode to building a multimillion-dollar, education-first brand now sold at Target, Walmart, and Amazon. We talk about bootstrapping, finding the right manufacturing partners, growing without outside capital, and the burnout that taught her to build a team and protect her health. If you’re waiting to feel ready before you start, Luna’s story is a powerful reminder that curiosity and resourcefulness matter far more than having it all figured out.In this episode, we’ll talk to Luna about:* How her own health struggles sparked curiosity around holistic healing. [02:06]* Luna’s “why” — creating wellness solutions born from lived experience. [04:57]* Luna’s upbringing, cultural influences, and early relationship with wellness. [05:33]* Who Luna was before motherhood and building her brand. [08:14]* Navigating motherhood and the wake-up call that shifted her priorities. [11:37]* The moment Luna realized she wanted to create something of her own. [17:44]* Her experience working in tech and questioning the traditional office path. [21:39]* Navigating motherhood, finances, and building a business from scratch. [24:11]* Finding the right manufacturer and business partner. [26:50]* Working with her husband and him transitioning to Legendairy Milk full-time. [29:18]* How Luna approached growth without chasing traditional startup pressure. [30:48]* How Luna sustained her brand’s position in the market while navigating growth. [33:09]* The process behind ideating and launching the products. [36:40]* The lessons Luna learned about burnout and delegating to grow her brand. [40:30]* Luna’s passion for her brand is deeply personal, fueled by the support of her community. [44:50]* How three years of effort led to Target placement and a major business milestone. [47:12]* Experiencing the gap in postpartum care. [50:05]* Expanding presence in Target, Walmart, and Amazon to reach moms everywhere. [52:39]* Luna’s cautious approach to risk has shaped her business decisions. [55:36]* Advice for women building businesses while caring for themselves. [58:25]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Luna:* Website: https://www.legendairymilk.com/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendairymilk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrea Faulkner Williams is the co-founder of Tubby Todd, a cult-favorite clean baby skincare brand created for families with sensitive skin.We’re often told that if you want to build a real empire, you need venture capital, a massive team, and a perfectly engineered growth plan from day one. But my guest today built one of the most beloved baby skincare brands in America by doing the exact opposite.Andrea started Tubby Todd with 750 bottles in a cluttered San Diego garage. No ad spend. No background in chemistry. Just a very real problem she couldn’t ignore. Her baby’s eczema was so severe, it completely changed the way she looked at “baby-safe” products.Fast forward to today, Tubby Todd has tens of thousands of five-star reviews, a hero product parents swear is “a miracle in a jar”, and a major retail milestone. They’ve officially launched in Target, with a nationwide rollout underway.In this episode, Andrea shares how her early comfort with risk shaped her path as an entrepreneur, why clarity around your why and your one goal matters more than confidence, and how community, not paid ads, became the foundation of Tubby Todd’s growth. We talk about building a business alongside her husband, the inflection points that took the brand from garage to national retail, and the discipline it took to prioritize profitability before scaling. She also opens up about navigating motherhood while running a fast-growing company, and the daily non-negotiables, like sleep, movement, and joy, that keep her grounded through it all.In this episode, we’ll talk to Andrea about:* Andrea’s upbringing and early exposure to entrepreneurship. [02:37]* Andrea’s natural comfort with risk and optimism. [05:03]* Advice on overcoming fear: start with your “why” and one clear goal. [07:14]* How long it took Andrea to define her personal brand and goals. [11:36]* The moment Andrea knew she wanted to build something of her own. [15:04]* The first formula fails when their son Walker’s eczema reacts badly. [19:13]* Buying their first 750 bottles and shipping from their garage. [20:52]* Origin of the Tubby Todd brand value: “Be a good friend” in everything. [22:23]* Prioritizing profitability from day one despite premium positioning. [24:39]* The breakout success of All Over Ointment and its cult-like reviews. [27:04]* How All Over Ointment was formulated as a healing, petroleum-free alternative that truly works. [37:38]* Their community-first approach made ads a support tool, not the strategy. [38:45]* Early DIY branding using iPhone photos and a scrappy website, and why it still worked. [40:13]* Long road to Target: years of prep before ever saying yes to retail. [42:07]* Target launch uses the exact same formula as DTC. [43:00]* Her biggest advice: nourish your relationship with your partner weekly. [45:21]* Daily non-negotiables: sleep, movement, and one small joy every single day. [46:48]* How faith and community is the backbone of both her business and her family. [48:16]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Andrea:* Website: https://tubbytodd.com/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreafaulknerwilliams/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tubbytodd/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’re re-airing one of our top episodes with Miranda Kerr, a globally recognized model and the founder & CEO of KORA Organics, a skincare brand known for its commitment to clean, certified organic products.For Miranda, the journey to founding KORA Organics wasn’t just about beauty — it was about healing. After her mother’s cancer diagnosis, she began questioning everything she put in and on her body, eventually realizing there was a gap in the market for truly clean, certified organic skincare that actually worked. Fueled by a personal mission and a vision for something better, she launched KORA Organics in 2009. Today, it’s a global brand available in over 30 countries, but Miranda’s approach remains deeply personal: leading with intention, staying hands-on with every product, and reminding people that real beauty begins with how we care for ourselves from the inside out.In this episode, Miranda shares the pivotal experiences that shaped her — from growing up in a wellness-focused family to how personal loss at a young age taught her resilience, gratitude, and emotional strength. She reflects on lessons from her early modeling career — handling rejection, building confidence, and trusting her inner voice — and how those experiences prepared her for entrepreneurship. Miranda takes us behind the scenes of launching KORA in the U.S., navigating a highly competitive market, and balancing the emotional highs and lows of building a global brand while raising a family. She also shares how mindfulness, presence, and self-care have been foundational to her success — and why prioritizing inner wellbeing remains at the core of her life and business, and so much more. In this episode, we’ll talk to Miranda about:* Miranda’s family approach to wellness. [03:22]* Her mother’s cancer diagnosis. [05:26]* Losing her boyfriend & shifting her life perspective. [11:11]* The importance of expressing love and gratitude daily. [14:32]* Miranda’s early modeling career. [17:45]* Navigating impostor syndrome & building confidence. [20:46]* Lessons in resilience and learning to handle rejection. [23:50]* Miranda’s skincare learnings from her modeling career. [27:45]* Myths around certified organic products. [31:31]* The passion behind building KORA Organics. [32:45] * Launching KORA in the U.S. [36:36]* The challenges of entering the U.S. market. [40:33]* Managing emotional resilience as an entrepreneur. [44:56]* Managing motherhood with entrepreneurship. [47:24]* A behind-the-scenes look at Miranda’s life as a mom. [48:18]* Balancing her yin and yang energy in daily life. [52:24]* The power of mindfulness and being present. [54:04]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Miranda: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirandakerr/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koraorganics/* Website: https://koraorganics.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’re re-airing one of our top episodes with Allison Ellsworth, the co-founder of Poppi, a better for you soda brand that is revolutionizing the next generation. Allison always knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur, but her journey began in the oil and gas industry, where she spent years on the road building a successful career. During this time, she struggled with bloating and other gut health issues, inspiring her to take charge of her wellness. She adopted a clean diet, started working out, and discovered apple cider vinegar's benefits. However, she wasn’t a fan of its taste and sought a way to make it more enjoyable.Allison created an apple cider vinegar-based soda, "Mother Beverage" in her kitchen and quit her day job—nearly going broke while selling it at farmers' markets. After an appearance on Shark Tank while nine months pregnant and a complete product rebrand, the prebiotic soda became "Poppi," the viral, #1 selling soda on Amazon with over 2 billion TikTok views and the most-watched Super Bowl ad this year.In this week’s episode, Allison shares her journey of leaving a stable career to start her own business—without any prior experience. She reveals how she landed Whole Foods distribution with no connections and took a chance on Shark Tank to secure funding. Allison breaks down why they decided to rebrand Poppi, how they executed a successful relaunch during the pandemic, the social media strategies that helped them grow awareness and build a loyal community, and so much more.In this episode, we’ll talk to Allison about:* Saying "yes" and figuring things out. [03:32]* Allison’s career journey and how it shaped her. [04:52]* Passion is key to entrepreneurial success. [07:32]* Allison’s health journey inspired Poppi. [09:22]* Self-funding, entering Whole Foods, and joining Shark Tank. [14:16]* Pivoting to work on Poppi full-time. [15:21]* Preparing for Shark Tank while pregnant. [18:49]* Poppi’s rebranding as a strategy for growth. [23:07]* Persistence and adaptability in entrepreneurship. [25:25]* Taste is crucial in the beverage industry. [27:55]* Having over 2 billion TikTok views. [30:36]* Allison’s first viral TikTok video. [32:31]* Approachable content creation process. [36:25]* Prioritize mental health and learn to say "no." [42:24]* Allison’s experience bringing in a CEO. [44:47]* Learnings from rapid business growth. [47:52]* Managing burnout by prioritizing self-care. [50:29]* Future plans for Poppi. [52:41]* Let go of “should haves” and focus on your priorities. [53:57]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Allison:* Website: https://drinkpoppi.com/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkpoppi/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonellsworth/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m so excited to share this week’s episode with you. I joined my friend Carly on her podcast, Care Less with Carly, and wanted to share our conversation here. We talk about the moment I realized my “perfect on paper” finance career wasn’t right for me, and how I navigated the messy, scary transition into entrepreneurship. We also get into my relationship with burnout and perfectionism, how Behind Her Empire truly began, and the early steps that eventually led to building my business beeya. If you’ve ever felt torn between stability and a deeper calling, this episode is for you. That uncomfortable feeling is often the sign that something bigger is ahead. I hope it reminds you that you don’t need every step figured out to begin, and that trusting yourself can be the most powerful choice. I hope you enjoy this one! In this episode, we’ll talk about:* Discovering Yasmin’s early career path and what drew her into finance. [02:15]* Feeling out of place in the corporate world and the moment she knew banking wasn’t for her. [05:51]* Signs of burnout and the pressure to constantly prove herself. [06:44]* Transitioning out of finance and exploring new paths in tech and startups. [08:19]* Why learning from others became Yasmin’s source of clarity and inspiration. [10:10]* Launching Behind Her Empire during the pandemic. [10:33]* Yasmin’s support pillars early on. [15:09]* Facing the fear of judgment and posting publicly for the first time. [16:00]* Why most people aren’t actually paying attention and why that’s freeing. [18:41]* Strengthening the muscle of not caring what others think. [22:05]* How building the podcast helped Yasmin develop boundaries and confidence. [22:33]* Traits shared by the world’s most accomplished women. [23:27]* Learning to enjoy the journey rather than chase the destination. [25:16]* Starting beeya: Yasmin’s health struggles and how her business idea was born. [27:31]* Honoring wellness: why sleep, food, and movement matter. [31:51]* Advice for listeners stuck between a safe career and their creative calling. [33:23]* What Yasmin is dreaming about next and what she hopes to inspire in others. [34:19]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances and to learn more about Beeya’s seed cycling bundle.* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10.Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Carly:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlylynn/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carelesswithcarly/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Allison Evans’ journey began when her period disappeared in middle school. She was later diagnosed with PCOS, told she’d never get pregnant naturally, and prescribed birth control to “fix” it. Years later, she proved the opposite—healing her hormones and restoring her fertility through food, lifestyle changes, and a radical shift in how she viewed “clean.”In this conversation, we explore the power of removing toxins from our homes and our minds, and how choosing a toxin-free lifestyle isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment.In this episode you’ll learn:* How to detox your life without fear* The power of mindset in healing* What to know about non-stick pans and other household items* The truth about synthetic fragrances* What makes a home truly clean* And more…Allison Evans is the co-founder of Branch Basics, a wellness brand dedicated to creating non-toxic cleaning products held to the highest standards of safety and transparency. After overcoming her own health challenges, Allison has become a trusted voice in the wellness space, helping people rethink what “clean” really means and empowering others to create healthier homes and lives.This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances and to learn more about Beeya’s seed cycling bundle.* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10.You can listen to our first conversation with Allison where we talk about building Branch Basics here:* https://www.behindherempire.com/episode/allison-evansFollow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Branch Basics: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchbasics/* Website: https://branchbasics.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Missy Tannen is the co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Boll & Branch, the luxury bedding brand that made organic, ethically made sheets a household staple.Missy’s path to entrepreneurship began far from business. After eight years as a third-grade teacher, she stepped away to raise her three daughters, never imagining she would one day build one of the most successful bedding brands in the country. What started as a simple search for better sheets led Missy and her husband, Scott, to uncover an industry lacking transparency. Determined to do better, they learned everything from cotton to supply chains from scratch and launched Boll & Branch in 2014 with a mission to create beautiful, responsibly made bedding at an honest price. What began at their kitchen table has since grown into a $200 million brand, sold at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, with stores expanding nationwide.In this week’s episode, Missy shares her transformation from teacher to entrepreneur, the pivotal moments that shaped Boll & Branch’s early years, and how one unexpected newspaper story changed everything. We get into the scrappy stuff—wiring their savings to a factory they had never visited, making tech packs in PowerPoint, washing fabric samples in her laundry room, and missing a holiday launch after a production disaster. Missy reflects on building their supply chain from the ground up, facing zero-sales days before the brand took off overnight, and learning to balance growth, motherhood, and self-doubt while staying true to her purpose. This conversation is your reminder that you do not need experience or a roadmap to build something extraordinary, only grit, heart, and the courage to keep going.*Note from Yasmin: After five amazing years of weekly episodes, I’m shifting Behind Her Empire to an every-other-week schedule. This new rhythm gives me a bit more space to focus on building my own empire and to bring you even deeper, more intentional episodes. I’m so grateful to have you on this journey and can’t wait to keep sharing powerful stories every other week.In this episode, we’ll talk to Missy about:* Missy’s upbringing and early teaching career. [03:31]* How the idea for Boll & Branch came about. [07:30]* Sourcing ethical cotton and building fair trade supply chains. [15:48]* The process of finding the right partners. [18:22]* The process behind their first PO. [22:44]* Navigating early challenges with her husband and co-founder. [24:24]* The Wall Street Journal feature that changed everything. [33:25]* Balancing rapid growth with personal values. [39:36]* The evolution of Boll & Branch and leading with authenticity. [46:31]* Managing moments of overwhelm while building a business. [49:31]* Overcoming perfectionism in leadership. [53:50]* Navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship. [59:18]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Missy: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bollandbranch/* Website: https://www.bollandbranch.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perimenopause is something nearly every woman will experience, yet many don’t recognize what’s happening until symptoms begin to disrupt daily life. This week, my co-founder Kaya and her sister sit down with Dr. Mariza Snyder for an open and honest conversation about perimenopause.Together, they bring personal experience and curiosity to the discussion, unpacking what’s really happening in the body during this stage and how women can navigate it with more ease and support.Dr. Mariza explains the first signs of perimenopause, which can vary widely and affect the entire body well beyond the breasts and ovaries. She breaks down what happens inside the body during this transition, how it can lead to surprising changes in daily life, and the key tests that can help women navigate this phase while protecting their brain and metabolic health. Dr. Mariza also shares why stress management, community, and movement are essential tools for empowering ourselves through this time.This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances and to learn more about Beeya’s seed cycling bundle.* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10.Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/Follow Kaya:* https://www.instagram.com/kayapurohit/Follow Dr. Mariza:* Website: https://drmariza.com/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmariza/ * Check out her hormones and metabolism reset program here: https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-reset-course/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kim Vaccarella is the founder and CEO of Bogg Bag, the durable, washable, and colorful tote designed to carry it all with ease, from beach days to everyday adventures.Kim’s journey to building Bogg Bag was anything but linear. A mom of two with a full-time job, she sketched the idea for a sturdier beach tote after one too many sandy, soggy days at the shore. Turning that sketch into reality meant dipping into her children’s college savings, navigating failed prototypes, and surviving a shipment disaster that nearly sank the company. She pitched the concept to investors, auditioned for Shark Tank four times, and kept going even when the odds looked impossible. For nearly a decade, Kim built Bogg slowly and steadily on the side, determined to protect her vision and move at her own pace. That persistence paid off. Today, Bogg Bag is a thriving $100 million brand carried in major retailers like Nordstrom, Target, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, with millions of bags in the hands of customers across the country.In this week’s episode, Kim gets super detailed about the many ups and downs on bringing this business to life - from the risks she took to place her first big order, the moments she nearly walked away, and the lessons she learned about patience, resilience, and staying true to her path. We talk about the turning points that defined her journey—from manufacturing challenges and early rejections to grassroots growth and viral moments, and the leap of faith she took when she left her 26-year career to focus on Bogg full time. Kim also shares why she ultimately turned down a massive nine figure acquisition offer and what it means to build a business on your own timeline. If you’ve ever doubted your pace or questioned your path, Kim’s story proves that slow growth can be just as powerful.In this episode, we’ll talk to Kim about:* Why slow and steady growth builds sustainable businesses. [02:27]* Kim’s early drive for financial independence. [07:31]* How a beach day sparked the idea for Bogg Bag. [10:14]* Early prototypes and industry rejections. [17:16]* Selling the first 300 bags. [19:22]* Funding the first batches through savings and family support. [20:50]* Manufacturing disaster and Hurricane Sandy. [23:11] * Factory challenges and key lessons. [29:15]* Finding the right long-term manufacturing partner. [32:57]* Auditioning for Shark Tank four times. [36:09]* Raising her first $120K from trusted connections. [37:15]* Leaving her 26-year career. [41:20]* The million-dollar sales milestone and early COVID pivots. [42:12]* Going viral with Peloton moms. [44:25]* Why Kim turned down a $100M acquisition deal. [53:18]* Navigating imitators and fierce competition. [59:25]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Kim: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boggbags/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimvaccarella/* Website: https://boggbag.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’re re-airing one of our top episodes with Stacy Sims, MSC, PhD, a forward-thinking international exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist who aims to revolutionize exercise nutrition and performance for women. Have you ever wondered why one week you feel like you’re crushing it in the gym, and the next you just don’t have the energy? Newsflash: women are NOT small men. Our hormones fluctuate throughout the month, which has subtle (and sometimes obvious) impacts on every area of our lives—including exercise.In this episode you’ll learn: * Exercise myths that need to be busted* If women really need to cycle sync their workouts* What women need to know about cold therapy* How to know if you’re eating enough* Why creatine isn’t just for gym bros* And more…Dr. Stacy has directed research programs at Stanford, AUT University, and the University of Waikato, focusing on female athlete health and performance and pushing the dogma to improve research on all women. She has published over 70 peer-reviewed papers, several books and is a regularly featured speaker at professional and academic conferences, including those by USOC and USA Cycling.With the unique opportunities, Silicon Valley has to offer, during her tenure at Stanford, she had the opportunity to translate earlier research into consumer products and a science-based layperson's book, Roar, written to explain sex differences in training and nutrition across the lifespan. Both the consumer products and the book challenged the existing dogma for women in exercise, nutrition, and health. This paradigm shift is the focus of her famous "Women Are Not Small Men” TEDx talk.This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Dr. Stacy: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstacysims/* Website: https://www.drstacysims.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jennifer Meyer is the founder and creative director of Jennifer Meyer Jewelry, a fine jewelry brand handmade in Los Angeles. Jennifer’s story starts early. At six, she was discovering her love for jewelry while creating pieces with her grandmother. Fast forward: she hustled her way into getting a job at Glamour magazine, then worked in fashion and PR with Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani. In 2005, she finally followed her passion she felt for years and launched her brand at her kitchen table, teaching herself everything from molds to pricing. Her big break came when Jennifer Aniston wore the leaf necklace in The Break-Up, and suddenly her pieces were on the shelves at Barneys and Net-a-Porter. Nearly two decades later, Jennifer Meyer Jewelry has become a Hollywood staple, worn by everyone from Reese Witherspoon and Taylor Swift to Selena Gomez and so many more.In today’s episode, Jennifer gets real about what it took to build from zero. We talk about how her upbringing & working at a young age shaped her resilience, the scrappy hustle that got her first big break at Glamour, and the leap from side passion to a real business. She shares the chaos of those early orders, the moment Jennifer Aniston put her work on the map, and what it was like to scale while raising her daughter. We dig into money lessons from her dad, why she chose slow and steady growth, and how to bet on yourself when there’s no roadmap. Jennifer also opens up about navigating comparison, leaning into social and how it’s impacted her business, and redefining what success means to her over the years. If you’ve ever felt “not enough,” this conversation will remind you that passion, persistence, and kindness can take you farther than you think.In this episode, we’ll talk to Jennifer about:* Why staying focused and trusting your passion has guided her career. [02:46]* Early work experiences and family influences that shaped her values. [05:26]* Building work ethic and discipline from a young age. [09:06]* From Glamour to Ralph Lauren and the lessons she carried forward. [12:05]* The pivotal decision to pursue jewelry design full-time. [20:04]* Confronting fear and taking the leap into entrepreneurship. [22:59]* Scrappy beginnings and the early challenges of launching her brand. [26:40]* How Jennifer Aniston wearing her jewelry became a breakthrough moment. [29:00]* Landing Barneys at the same time and learning how to manage momentum. [32:26]* Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship from the very start. [39:29]* Why investing in yourself is always worth it. [45:07]* The importance of leading with kindness and authenticity. [47:44]* How her definition of success has evolved over the years. [49:36]* Navigating emotional challenges and the resilience it takes to keep going. [51:35]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Jennifer: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenmeyerjewelry/* Website: https://jennifermeyer.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do mood shifts, cravings, and PMS happen before your period? Dr. Sarah Hill, author of “This is Your Brain on Birth Control” and “The Period Brain”, breaks down the latest science on hormones, the luteal phase, and how progesterone affects the brain and body.In this episode you’ll learn: * How to survive and thrive in the luteal phase* Why PMS exists (and its functional purpose)* How progesterone impacts mood and stress* The connection between birth control and attraction* What contributes to postpartum depression* And more…Sarah E. Hill, Ph.D. is an award-winning researcher, consultant, writer, scientist, communicator, and professor. With almost 25 years of research experience, she's authored 100+ research publications, and two books that have changed the conversation about hormones and birth control for women. She earned her Ph.D. in Evolutionary Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin with Dr. David Buss and has called Texas home since moving here for graduate school in 2000. She has used the latest science on the dynamic changes in women’s hormonal states to write her newest book, "The Period Brain" with the goal of helping people feel seen, heard, and understood.This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Dr. Sarah: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahehillphd/* Website: https://www.sarahehill.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joan Nguyen is the co-founder and CEO of Bumo, a platform revolutionizing childcare with flexible, on-demand options for families.Raised by Vietnamese refugee parents who taught her that education was both a privilege and a pathway, Joan’s entrepreneurial journey began at just 20 years old when she founded MeriEducation with $3,000 in savings, eventually growing it into an Inc. 5000 company. Years later, as a working mother, she teamed up with Chriselle Lim to launch Bumo in 2019. From pitching over 200 investors with repeated rejections, to losing her home in the LA wildfires, to pivoting the company into a virtual school in just eleven days during the pandemic, Joan has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Today, Bumo has raised over $10 million and built a nationwide marketplace connecting families with thousands of licensed childcare providers.In this week’s episode, Joan opens up about the pivots that shaped her journey. She shares what it was like navigating survival mode versus thriving mode as a founder, building a supportive community, and finally breaking through with investors. We talk about the challenges of fundraising and adapting quickly during the pandemic to save her business. Joan also shares the lessons she’s learned about resilience, setting boundaries as a parent and leader, and the power of asking for help. If you’ve ever faced setbacks that felt impossible to overcome, this conversation is proof that your hardest seasons can set the stage for your biggest breakthroughs.In this episode, we’ll talk to Joan about:* The power of pivots and why Joan always leads with serving her community. [02:21]* How every job and connection came full circle in her entrepreneurial journey. [04:34]* Lessons in resilience and perspective from her refugee parents. [07:35]* Surviving vs. thriving: the mindset shift as a founder. [09:51]* Losing her home, kids’ school, and 300 daycares in the LA fires. [11:29]* Running a fashion line and tutoring before choosing education. [13:50]* From “glorified intern” to co-founder & CEO of Bumo. [18:57]* Pitching 200+ investors and the early rejections. [23:31]* Building community with the Bumo Digest parenting newsletter. [25:35]* Landing her first lead investor (& literally breaking open doors). [28:16]* Pivoting during the pandemic and launching a virtual school. [30:45]* Why 2022–2023 were some of Bumo’s hardest years. [33:40]* The traction and proof points that led to raising $10M. [40:26]* How Joan has evolved as a leader. [41:28]* The power of focus, hiring right, and clear communication. [51:18]* Setting boundaries as a founder and parent. [47:08]* Why asking for help can change everything. [51:07]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Joan: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumoparent/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joan.bumo/* Website: https://wp.bumo.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’re doing a solo episode. I’ve invited my co-founder at beeya wellness and sister-in-law, Kaya Purohit, to join me for a candid conversation where we dive into the top questions from our community.From wellness routines to business strategy, we’re getting real on how we actually live, work, and build behind the scenes. We get into things like: * The wellness fads we tried (and why they left us drained)* The daily rituals that keep us grounded while running a fast-paced startup* The best business advice we’ve ever received—and how it keeps us sane* The marketing lesson that completely changed the way we grow beeya* The messy truth of building a brand, from product development headaches to customer winsWe’re keeping it honest, a little messy, and hopefully super helpful - we hope you enjoy this one! This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Kaya: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayapurohit/Follow Beeya:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beeyawellness/* Website: https://beeyawellness.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melinda Maria Spigel is the founder and Chief Creative Officer of Melinda Maria Jewelry, a leading e-commerce jewelry brand. From a young age, Melinda was drawn to creativity and jewelry, spending hours sketching and experimenting with designs. What began as a childhood passion quickly evolved into something bigger when, at 23, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. She started selling her handmade pieces out of a Starbucks, sometimes making $1,000 a day, until her bold, statement designs began catching the eyes of stylists and celebrities. That early momentum would eventually grow into a namesake brand worn by icons like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Taylor Swift, and featured in major retailers around the world.In this week’s episode, Melinda opens up about the real journey behind the brand: how she overcame fear of judgment, why authenticity is her biggest competitive edge, and what it really took to build a company from scratch while raising three kids. We talk about the hustle of her early days, the grassroots strategies that got her into celebrity hands, the lessons she learned navigating challenges during key growth stages, and how passion continues to fuel her resilience and long-term success. Melinda’s story is a masterclass in resilience, resourcefulness, and creativity, and a reminder that true success isn’t about a perfect path but about showing up with courage, again and again.In this episode, we’ll talk to Melinda about:* Why authenticity is the foundation of brand-building. [03:03]* Melinda’s relationship with creativity growing up. [07:16]* Discovering her passion for jewelry at a young age. [09:00]* Hustle and scrappiness in the early days. [11:47]* Driving growth through community engagement. [13:46]* Navigating challenges during key growth stages. [19:08]* Lessons on fulfillment and growth. [28:07]* Finding the right manufacturer and why it matters. [38:10]* Content creation and showing up authentically online. [41:32]* Taking time for family and returning full-time. [45:01]* How passion sustains resilience and long-term success. [53:55]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Melinda: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melindamaria_jewely/* Website: https://www.melindamaria.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sea of conflicting advice on hormones, aging, and how to truly take care of your body, you’re not alone. From social media trends to quick-fix solutions, it can be hard to know what actually works and what’s just noise. In this conversation, Dr. Amy Killen breaks down complex science into clear, actionable insights. You’ll walk away not only with knowledge, but also with a sense of empowerment to make decisions that support your long-term vitality, energy, and confidence as hormones shift throughout life.In this episode you’ll learn: * Misconceptions about estrogen* How to navigate hormone shifts in midlife* The latest science on HRT* When hormone testing really matters* The truth about creatine, red light & collagen* When women age the fastest* And more…Dr. Amy Killen is a longevity and regenerative physician, entrepreneur, and international speaker. A former ER doctor, she now helps people look and feel their best through lifestyle medicine, hormones, peptides, and cutting-edge regenerative therapies. She is the founder of the Human Optimization Project and co-founder/Chief Medical Officer of Humanaut Health, while also pioneering advanced stem cell procedures in her Utah-based practice.This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Dr. Amy: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amybkillen/* Website: https://dramykillen.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty Haney is the founder of Outdoor Voices, the brand that made moving your body feel cool, inclusive, and fun again.. She’s also the founder of Joggy, a natural energy brand, and TYB (“Try Your Best”), a fast-growing platform helping brands build stronger communities through its community commerce model.Ty started Outdoor Voices as a college project, and it ended up becoming one of the most recognizable names in activewear. She had this fresh take on movement and community that made the brand stand out and quickly grow into a national success. At its peak, Outdoor Voices was bringing in over $160 million in revenue under her leadership and became a playbook for how community can drive real growth. After stepping away, Ty didn’t slow down - she launched Joggy and later TYB, which now powers over 200 companies like Rare Beauty, Poppi, and Urban Outfitters.In today’s episode, Ty gets real about the full arc of Outdoor Voices from its scrappy beginnings to becoming a national brand, and then the tough moments that led her to step away. She opens up about the challenges behind the scenes, what it felt like to walk away from something she built, and why she’s now coming back to the company with a fresh perspective. We also dive into what she’s learned launching Joggy from scratch, building TYB with powerhouse brands, and how she rebuilt her confidence through it all. Ty shares the lessons she wishes more founders talked about - why ownership equals control, how to manage your time and energy, and why trusting yourself is everything. This one’s for anyone who’s building, rebuilding, or just figuring it out as they go, Ty’s story is packed with honesty, grit, and the kind of inspiration we all need to hear.In this episode, we’ll talk to Ty about:* Why ownership equals control in business. [02:16]* Childhood influences and early entrepreneurial spirit. [05:16]* The origin story of Outdoor Voices. [07:57]* Outdoor Voices’ unique approach to activewear. [14:08]* Product development challenges behind the scenes. [15:57]* Fundraising and relationship-building lessons. [22:23]* Scaling Outdoor Voices and the biggest lessons she learned. [28:23]* Why a strong team makes all the difference. [29:29]* The decision to leave Outdoor Voices. [30:40]* Motherhood and personal growth. [37:04]* Starting over with Try Your Best and Joggy. [39:52]* Rebuilding her confidence from the ground up. [44:04]* Time management and how Ty sets her priorities, managing three companies. [47:19]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Ty: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ty_haney/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorvoices/* Website: https://www.outdoorvoices.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your mouth making you sick? Turns out, your mouth is the gateway to your whole body’s health, yet most of us don’t realize just how much our oral care impacts everything from digestion to heart health. Whether you want to prevent cavities, avoid unnecessary dental work, or learn holistic strategies for keeping your mouth healthy, this conversation will open your eyes to the bigger picture of oral wellness.In this episode you’ll learn: * How oral health is deeply connected to overall health* The role of saliva and minerals in keeping teeth strong* Early signs of poor oral health (and how to address them)* How breastfeeding impacts jaw development in babies* The fluoride debate—what you need to know* Why so many kids (and adults) need braces today* The surprising link between mouth breathing and dental health* And more…Dr. Staci Whitman is a leading authority in functional dentistry. With a unique blend of scientific expertise and compassionate care, she’s dedicated to creating a cavity-free world. Dr. Staci is a triple board-certified in pediatrics, integrative dentistry, and naturopathic dentistry and is one of only five dentists in the world to have her Functional Medicine Certification from the Institute of Functional Medicine. She founded one of the country’s leading Functional Pediatric Dental offices, where she takes a whole-body and holistic approach to her care. She co-founded the Institute of Functional Dentistry, launching in 2025, and lectures globally on Functional Dentistry and the Oral Systemic Connection.This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Get 15% off at fygg.com with code BEEYA.Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Dr. Staci: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor_staci/* Website: https://linktr.ee/doctorstaci Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kadi Lee is a celebrity hair colorist and the co-founder of Highbrow Hippie, a luxury beauty and wellness brand rooted in clean ingredients, intentional rituals, and timeless beauty.Growing up in a small town outside New York, Kadi learned to care for her own textured hair at just eleven, sparking a passion for beauty that would shape her life. That passion took her from a college side hustle to training at Aveda and working in some of New York City’s top salons. In 2019, she and her longtime friend Myka Harris brought that experience to Venice Beach, launching Highbrow Hippie — a beauty and wellness destination that embodies clean living and a laid-back California vibe, which we’re going to talk all about today. She’s become a go-to for celebrity clients from Julia Roberts to Meghan Markle to Gwyneth Paltrow.In today’s episode, you’ll hear how Kadi built Highbrow Hippie from the ground up, learning every part of running a business completely from scratch. She went from figuring out fundraising to creating products with zero prior experience — all while trusting her instincts at every turn. We talk about how her early life shaped her independence, the hustle that led to her first big break, and the leap of faith it took to launch a luxury beauty brand in the middle of a global pandemic. Kadi shares powerful lessons on financial literacy, learning to delegate, and staying clear on your vision when the path forward feels uncertain. She also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of building a business, the moments she almost walked away, and the support that helped her push through. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting something from nothing, Kadi’s story will inspire you to take the leap.In this episode, we’ll talk to Kadi about:* How Kadi’s upbringing shaped her independence. [02:33]* Early jobs and discovering her passion for hair. [06:26]* Kadi’s first big break in the industry. [09:57]* The inspiration behind Highbrow Hippie. [11:10]* Navigating the challenges of starting a business during a pandemic. [21:08]* Trusting your gut when making big business decisions. [24:01]* Why financial literacy is essential for entrepreneurs. [32:00]* Brand vision and the power of visualization. [38:17]* From product iteration to their first official launch. [37:09]* Navigating product development. [39:45]* Lessons from joining an accelerator and raising capital. [45:43]* The emotional impact of receiving support from clients and community. [50:44]* How perseverance and hard work lead to lasting success. [55:46]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Get 15% off Highbrow Hippie Haircare & Wellness with code Empire15 at highbrowhippie.comFollow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Kadi: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highbrowhippie/* Website: https://highbrowhippie.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.