She's So Lucky

#305: What does it mean to actually understand the media you’re consuming—and how does that shape how you move through the world? That’s what we’re getting into this week with our guest, Nikki Ogunnaike.Nikki is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire **US, host of Marie Claire’s Nice Talk podcast and one of the sharpest voices in fashion and culture today. Having held roles at Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, Elle, Glamour, InStyle, and Vanity Fair, she’s spent years helping people not just look good, but think critically about what they’re watching, reading, and sharing.In this episode, we talk about the power of media literacy, why your personal style isn’t a destination, and why having your own lens is one of the most underrated success tools out there.We Also Talk About…How we can be more conscious consumers of fashion and mediaHow running has helped her find clarity and communityHer “Ins and Outs” for 2025—and whether they still hold upWhy media literacy is a non-negotiable in today’s worldThe difference between copying style vs. cultivating itResources:Listen to Nice Talk on Apple PodcastsListen to Nice Talk on SpotifyFollow Marie Claire on Instagram @marieclairemagazineFollow Marie Claire on TikTok @marieclairemagazineDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Quince: Elevate your fall wardrobe essentials with Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.Nutrafol: Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#304: Is being too “realistic” keeping you stuck?This week, I’m getting into something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately: how being “realistic” can actually be a form of shrinking our goals to fit our fears.In this solo episode, I’m unpacking why being realistic isn’t always the wise or grounded choice it’s made out to be, and how it might actually be self-sabotage disguised as protection.I also share some mindset shifts that have helped me stop shrinking my goals to fit what feels “safe” and start thinking bigger again—without spiraling into overwhelm. If you’ve ever talked yourself out of something because it felt too bold or too unlikely, this one’s for you.In this episode, I talk about:Why “being realistic” can be a trapHow I’ve noticed it showing up in my own lifeWhat to do when your big goals start to feel too far awayThe difference between grounded strategy and self-sabotageEncouragement to stop playing small and dream a little biggerResources:Follow me on IG @lesalfredFollow She’s So Lucky on IG @shessoluckypodFollow me on TikTok @balancedlesFollow She’s So Lucky on TikTok @shessoluckypodDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Nutrafol: Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.Shopify: Start your online business with Shopify. Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.The Real Real: The Real Real is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/lucky.Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#303: What does it look like to build a brand that’s rooted in real community, not just clout? That’s what we’re diving into this week with our guest, Nana Agyemang.Nana is a journalist-turned-entrepreneur, founder of EveryStylishGirl, and the visionary behind Sip N’ Slay — one of today’s most sought-after events for women creatives and media professionals.In this episode, we talk about building an authentic personal brand, why community is the best business strategy, and how Nana is planning for early retirement (at 40!) without sacrificing joy or alignment.We Also Talk About…What it really means to build an authentic brandHow Sip N’ Slay became the go-to event for women creativesMapping out your long game (and making peace with slow growth)Shifting your money mindset for legacy and wealthKnowing when to say no, and why boundaries are essentialResources:Get your tickets for Sip N’ Slay NYC on August 23Follow Nana on Instagram @itsreallynanaFollow Nana on TikTok @itsreallynanaaaFollow EveryStylishGirl on Instagram @everystylishgirlDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Function: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership.Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at www.opill.comSimply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.NOCD: NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#302: What if the version of success you’re chasing isn’t actually yours?In this episode I’m joined by Amina AlTai, executive coach and author of The Ambition Trap, to unpack what it really means to pursue ambition with purpose. We talk about the difference between chasing success to prove something vs. purposeful ambition that aligns with your values and desires.Amina shares the personal and professional wake-up calls that led her to redefine ambition, why we can feel our lowest during moments that are supposed to be our highest, and why fulfillment isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you’ve ever hit a milestone and felt underwhelmed, this conversation is for you.We Also Talk About…Why performative ambition can leave you feeling emptyThe signs you’re stuck in the Ambition TrapHow to reconnect with purposeful, aligned goalsThe difference between identity-driven success and ego-driven successPermission to want more, but for the right reasonsResources:Check out Amina’s book The Ambition TrapFollow Amina on Instagram @aminaaltaiFollow Amina on TikTok @aminaaltaiFollow Amina on LinkedInCheck out Amina’s podcast, Amina Change Your LifeDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @balancedles @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @balancedlesVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#301: What does it mean to be the woman of your own dreams?That’s what we’re exploring in this week’s episode with guest, Kendra Austin. Kendra is a model, author, content creator, podcast host, and serial entrepreneur who lives authentically and unapologetically.In this episode, we talk about what it’s really like to lean into your evolution and show up as your full self from glow-ups, to spiritual awakenings.We Also Talk About…Releasing the grip of perfectionismExploring various creative pursuitsWhat it means to build self-trustThe importance of play and curiosity as a means of self-discoveryResources:Follow Kendra on Instagram @kendramorousFollow Kendra on TikTok @kendramorousListen to Kendra’s podcast, Eldest DaughterCheck out Kendra’s website https://www.kendraaustin.com/Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Function Health: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY100 for a $100 credit towards your membership. Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.The RealReal: The RealReal is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/luckyRula Online Therapy: Visit rula.com/lucky to get connected with a licensed therapist.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#300: Clovers, we’ve officially reached our 300th episode of She’s So Lucky! To celebrate this milestone, we’re taking a walk down memory lane to reflect on some of our top episodes.Relive some of our greatest hits, and the gems you may have missed for creating your own luck.Episodes Shared:250: 35 Lessons I’ve Learned by My 35th Birthday281: Gabrielle Union on Embracing Vulnerability and No Longer Going 50/50 236: How to Become Your Highest Self: Essential Glow-Up Tips with Jaz Turner205: The Ultimate Glow-Up: How to Level Up in Your Career and Life with Jodie Taylor206: The SECRET to Choosing Yourself with Eni Popoola225: Kennedy Ryan — How Reading Fiction Helps Us Raise Our Standards and Practice Self-Care265: How to Create Your Dream Life with Tricia Lee223: Rachel Rodgers on How to Establish Million-Dollar HabitsResources:Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateFollow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredSponsors:Quince: Quince is the go-to for elevated basics at affordable prices. Visit quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day returns.Shopify: Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Mint Mobile: Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/lucky.Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.Function Health: Take charge of your health through lab testing with Function. Visit functionhealth.com/lucky or use the gift code LUCKY for a $100 credit towards your membership. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#299: If you had to choose between running up a hill, or taking a flat road, which would you take? If you automatically said flat road, this episode may inspire you to take the hill.Today we’re sitting down with Marcel Dinkins — Peloton instructor, podcast host and athlete — for a fun, lively conversation on what it means to move through discomfort. Marcel inspires us to take the best route, which isn’t always the easy one, and find new ways to reinvent ourselves along the way. If you’re looking for motivation to push through plateaus, this episode is it.We Also Talk About…Marcel’s career transition from the Army, to fashion, to fitnessHow Marcel moved to New York on a whim in her early 20s and hasn’t looked backMarcel’s funny run-in with Tracee Ellis Ross during the Girlfriends eraHow Marcel manifested her dream job as a Peloton instructorWhat it means to take the hill, and why you shouldResources:Follow Marcel on Instagram @officialmarcelfitListen to Marcel’s podcast, Take the HillSubscribe to Marcel’s YouTube ChannelDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Function Health: Function is offering 160+ Lab Tests for $365 to anyone who signs up between July 7th and July 11th. To learn more and get started, visit functionhealth.com/LUCKY Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at opill.comThe RealReal: The RealReal is attainable luxury that upgrades your personal style. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to therealreal.com/luckyKeep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#298: We all know comparison is the thief of joy, but what does it mean to truly embody a comparison-free life?In this episode, I’m sitting down with Elyse Fox, filmmaker, writer, and founder of Sad Girls Club to unpack and dismantle comparison.Along the way, we also discuss Elyse’s journey of self-discovery, what it means to build community, how she’s redefining success on her own terms, and how you can too. Tap in for candid insights on mental health, entrepreneurship, and making space for joy.We Also Talk About…Elyse’s mental health journey and how it led to the creation of Sad Girls ClubWhy it’s okay to not have all the answersHow vulnerability led to building a global communityThe power of asking for help, creating boundaries, and the importance of accepting supportWhat it’s like running a nonprofit and leading a dynamic teamResources:Follow Elyse on Instagram @elyse.foxFollow Sad Girls Club on Instagram @sadgirlsclubCheck out Elyse’s podcast, The End of an EraConnect with Les and Elyse’s Executive Coach Tori Lazar on Instagram @torilazarSponsors:Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.Shopify: Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.Rula Online Therapy: Visit rula.com/lucky to get connected with a licensed therapist.Dipsea: Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to dipseastories.com/balanced to start your 30-day free trial!Mint Mobile: Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/lucky.Keep in touch with She’s So Lucky:Follow on IG: @lesalfred @shessoluckypodFollow on TikTok: @balancedlesVisit our website at: balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#297: Calling all lucky girls—time to get in formation.If your 2025 has gotten off to a rocky start or you’re looking to call in more lucky energy, this episode is for you. I’m sitting down solo to talk about our lucky girl commandments—the roadmap to follow for feeling more aligned and lucky. Hit play and get ready to thrive.Resources:Download my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateEpisode 281: Gabrielle Union on Embracing Vulnerability, Moving Through Creative Blocks, and No Longer Going 50/50Sponsors:Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.America’s Sweethearts: Watch Season 2 beginning June 18th, only on Netflix.IM8: IM8’s Daily Ultimate Essentials is my go-to drink for getting all the nutrients I need. Go to IM8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a free welcome kit, five free travel packs, and 10% off your order.Quince is the go-to for elevated basics at affordable prices. Visit quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day returns.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#296: We don’t wait for lucky breaks in our careers—we create them.In this episode, I’m sitting down with social media consultant, creative, and educator Candace Marie about creating your own luck in your career by having a clear vision and leveraging relationships.This conversation will leave you feeling inspired to take action on your next big idea.We Also Talk About…Candace’s transition from finance, to luxury fashion, to entrepreneurshipHow to build a strong personal brandWhy authentic relationship-building is crucial for your careerHow to make a smooth transition into a new industryWays to embrace more creativity in your everyday lifeHow to use social media as a tool for your successNavigating growth in corporate spacesResources:Follow Candace on Instagram @marie_mag_Check out Candace’s social media guide and challenge 75 Not-So-HardMaster brand partnerships with Candace’s course, The Art of PartnershipsLearn more about Candace’s organization, Black in CorporateDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Quince: Quince is the go-to for elevated basics at affordable prices. Visit quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day returns.LMNT: Visit drinklmnt.com/balancedles for a free sample pack with your order.Mint Mobile: Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/lucky.America’s Sweethearts: Watch Season 2 on June 18th. Only on Netflix. IM8 Health: Feel your best self everyday. Go to im8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a Free Welcome Kit, five free travel sachets plus 10% off your order. Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#295: The times we look like we have it all together can actually be the moments we’re struggling the most. When we’re busy creating our own luck, we can miss the signs that it’s time to tend to our mental and emotional well-being.In today’s episode I’m sitting down with Dr. Judith Joseph, MD, MBA. Dr. Judith is a board-certified psychiatrist, researcher and award-winning content creator who specializes in mental health and trauma.We discuss why the commonly understood signs of depression don’t tell the whole story, the ins and outs of high-functioning depression, and how to overcome it and reclaim your joy.We Also Talk About…The hidden signs of high-functioning and hidden depression.Understanding anhedonia, or lack of joy, and how to work through it.Why high-achieving women are more susceptible to high-functioning depression.How to tend to your mental health when the state of the world feels hectic and overwhelming.Resources:Check out Dr. Judith’s book High-Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your JoyFollow Dr. Judith on Instagram @drjudithjosephFollow Dr. Judith on TikTok @drjudithjosephCheck out Dr. Judith’s podcast, The VaultDownload my free Best Case Scenario Journal TemplateSponsors:Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping by visiting nutrafol.com and using the promo code BALANCEDLES.Shopify: Sign up for your $1 per month trial at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Cotton: Cotton is the fabric of our lives. Learn more at thefabricofourlives.com.Medtronic: Medtronic is spreading awareness about the importance of talking about women’s heart health. Visit alettertomymother.com to learn more.Ka’Chava: Go to kachava.com and use code BALANCEDLES for 15% off their subscription for a limited time.Dipsea: Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to dipseastories.com/balanced to start your 30-day free trial!Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#294: Ready to be lucky in love?Today I’m sitting down with Francesca Hogi, former corporate lawyer turned matchmaker turned love coach. She’s also an author, TED Speaker, and host of the relationship podcast Dear Franny where she facilitates uncommon questions about love.Francesca and I discuss ways to heal and tap into your lucky energy to call in and sustain aligned partnership.We Also Talk About…How to feel more lucky everydayOvercoming self-sabotage in relationshipsWhy you don’t need to be fully healed to find lovePopular dating advice you shouldn’t adhere to and what to do insteadResources:Follow Francesca on Instagram @dearfrannyFollow Francesca’s podcast on Instagram @dearfrannypodcastRead Francesca’s new book, How to Find True Love: Unlock Your Romantic Flow and Create Lasting PartnershipsCheck out Francesca’s podcast Dear FrannySponsors:LMNT: Stay hydrated with LMNT electrolytes. Visit drinklmnt.com/balancedles for a free sample pack with your order.Nuuly: Upgrade your wardrobe by subscribing to Nuuly. Get $28 off your first month when you sign up visit Nuuly.com and use the code BALANCEDLES.Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at www.opill.com.Dipsea: Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to dipseastories.com/balanced to start your 30-day free trial!IM8: IM8’s Daily Ultimate Essentials is my go-to drink for getting all the nutrients I need. Go to IM8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a free welcome kit, five free travel packs, and 10% off your order.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#293: Today I’m sitting down for a casual solo episode spilling the tea on how things are going post-rebrand, and sharing my favorite new hack for getting things done when I feel like crashing out.Resources:Follow Marina Girgis on IG to learn more about her retreatsEpisode 225: How Reading Fiction Makes Us Raise Our Standards and Practice Self-Care with Kennedy RyanEpisode 271: How to Rebrand Your Life in 2025Episode 281: Gabrielle Union on Moving Through Creative Blocks, Embracing Vulnerability and No Longer Going 50/50Episode 283: The Business of Rebranding and Owning Your Success with WeezyEpisode 289: Choosing Alignment Over Ambition with Daria BurkeCan’t Get Enough by Kennedy RyanOf My Own Making: A Memoir by Daria BurkeSubscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesSponsors:Simply Pop is a new fruit-forward bevy of prebiotic sodas with 6 grams of fiber. Go to cokeurl.com/simplyPOP to find out where you can try it.Nuuly Subscription Clothing Rental is a must-have for switching up your style. Visit nuuly.com and use the code BALANCEDLES to get $28 off your first month.Medtronic is spreading awareness about the importance of talking about women’s heart health. Visit alettertomymother.com to learn more.IM8’s Daily Ultimate Essentials is my go-to drink for getting all the nutrients I need. Go to IM8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a free welcome kit, five free travel packs, and 10% off your order.Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#292: If you need inspiration to focus, this episode is it.Today I’m sitting down with Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye, founder of cult favorite beauty brand Ami Colé, to break down the real, unfiltered journey of bringing a big idea to fruition. From growing up at her mother’s salon to working at beauty giants like Glossier and L’Oréal, Diarrha shares how purpose, identity, and intention shaped every step of her path.We talk about why the ability to focus is the most important skill you need, and how Diarrha is pushing the beauty industry to evolve by creating a brand that centers authenticity and celebrates all shades of beauty.We Also Talk About…Diarrha’s journey from working in corporate beauty to founding her own beauty brand.The key strategies for transitioning from an direct-to-consumer business to expanding into retail stores like Sephora.The best way to support your favorite indie brands.Tips for time management as a founder: balancing your focus between product development, marketing, and operations.The secrets to successful content creation that resonates with your audience and strengthens your brand’s identity.Resources:Follow Diarrha on InstagramFollow Ami Colé on InstagramVisit https://www.amicole.com/ to order your favorite beauty productsSubscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesCheck out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Quince | Get quiet luxury without luxury prices at Quince. Go to quince.com/balancedles for free shipping and 365-day return on your next order.LMNT | Electrolytes are essential for hydration, and LMNT has you covered. Visit drinklmnt.com/balancedles for a free sample pack to try your favorite flavor.Nutrafol | Get stronger, healthier hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering $10 OFF your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to nutrafol.com and enter promo code BALANCEDLES.Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.Medtronic | Talking about heart disease could save your life. For more information and to take the pledge to talk to your mother or a woman in your life about heart health, visit Alettertomymother.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#291: What does it mean to have true influence, and how can you tap into it?In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Imani Ellis, the mastermind and founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYC, about how a few small gatherings in her apartment turned into a massive cultural movement.With years of experience bringing creatives together, Imani opens up about what it really takes to build with intention—without all the noise.She shares her blueprint for staying true to yourself, building real connections, and creating lasting influence in a world that’s often focused on instant attention.We also talk about…Imani’s journey from corporate PR to founding CultureCon and The Creative Collective NYCThe difference between chasing clout and creating a lasting impactWhat it takes to cultivate trust and build real influence in today’s digital ageHow to stay true to yourself while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurshipImani’s approach to supporting creatives and fostering a sense of belonging in the industryThe power of community and collaboration in creative spacesResources:Follow Imani on Instagram @imaniimaniFollow CultureCon on Instagram @CultureCon and get details for the CultureCon Conference (October 4-5 in Brooklyn) at theccnyc.com/cultureconFollow The Creative Collective on Instagram @theccnycCheck out Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia HerseySubscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesCheck out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Keep in touch:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredVisit our website at: balancedblackgirl.comSponsors:Cotton | Learn more about the benefits of cotton products for yourself, your style, and your space at TheFabricOfOurLives.comNuuly | Upgrade your wardrobe by subscribing to Nuuly. Nuuly is a great value at $98 for any 6 styles, but right now you can get $28 off your first month when you sign up visit Nuuly.com and use the code BALANCEDLESMint Mobile | Ditch overpriced wireless and get 3 months of premium wireless service from Mint Mobile for $15 a month. Shop data plans at mintmobile.com/LUCKYDipsea | Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to DipseaStories.com/LUCKY to start your 30-day free trial!Opill | Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at www.opill.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.