What does your skin say about who you are? In this powerful episode, Dr. Farayola, scholar, author, and global health advocate, joins us to unpack the deep links between identity and self-worth. From scalp care and natural beauty to public policy and Eurocentric beauty standards, Dr. Farayola shares how internalized beliefs and global systems shape how Black women are seen and how they see themselves. She speaks candidly about growing up with colorist comments, her mother’s fierce protection,...
In this episode of Unraveling the Knots, we sit down with Kaitlyn Schneider, a biological engineer turned skincare brand founder of Aeston West, who’s passionate about blending science with beauty. Kaitlyn shares how she went from the lab to the spa, applying her scientific savvy to skin wellness. She explains why our hair can act as a “barometer” of internal health and how our skin reflects what’s happening inside us, from nutrition to stress. Kat also opens up about her mission to embrace a...
In this episode of Unraveling the Knots, we sit down with researcher-entrepreneur, Asha Kabirou, who beautifully blends science, spirituality, and community building. Asha shares her personal natural hair journey. She explains how simplifying her routine (think gentle care and consistency) helped her embrace her hair’s natural beauty and strength. With 6+ years at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Asha brings some serious science to the conversation. She breaks down the evidence on caf...
What if your hair routine was also a public health conversation? In this episode of UTK, we sit down with Dr. Osadebe, an infectious disease epidemiologist, veterinarian, and public health consultant with 17+ years of global experience, including work with the CDC and WHO. She shares her personal natural hair journey, from relaxing to transitioning to her natural hair, and connects it to her expertise in public health. Together, we explore why hair is more than style, it's considered a social...
In this inspiring episode of Unraveling the knots, we welcome natural hair model Alaina Miller to share her journey of embracing her curly hair in the fashion industry. From getting bullied in high school for her natural hair to strutting the runway with confidence, Alaina’s story is a testament to resilience and self-love. Alaina opens up about learning to care for her own hair (she hasn’t been to a salon in 8 years!), busting myths about Black hair length and texture, and standing up to ind...
Send us a text Send your questions about Afro-textured/coily hair to utkinhair@gmail.com. Check out your natural beauty hub, ÈYÍ DÁRA Naturals for natural hair care solutions. Follow us on instagram @utkpodcast
Captain Tobi Almaroof, a Nigerian-American Muslim woman and U.S. Army captain, shares how she proudly wears her natural 4C hair under her hijab, defying expectations in the military. In this inspiring episode of Unraveling the Knots, she opens up about navigating strict Army grooming regulations that once banned locs and twists. She highlights the Army’s recent shifts toward inclusion...from finally permitting religious head coverings and protective styles in 2017 and how those changes helped...
In this heartwarming episode of Unraveling the Knots, our host chats with her vibrant step-mother, Ameena, to explore a lifelong natural hair journey rooted in culture, resilience, and self-love. Originally from Jamaica, Ameena shares candid stories of growing up with rich hair care traditions. She reflects on the significance of family and community in Black hair care (like why Jamaican Black Castor Oil is a staple in almost every Jamaican home) and recalls how weekend wash days felt like bo...
In this illuminating episode of Unraveling the Knots, we’re joined by the brilliant and beloved Dr. Seyi Oni a board-certified internal medicine physician, aesthetics specialist, and natural hair advocate to break down two often misunderstood hair loss conditions: traction alopecia and Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA). Dr. Oni draws from years of clinical expertise and deep care for the health of Black women to guide us through the science of hair loss...from identifying early ...
Join us for an inspiring new episode of Unraveling the Knots’ “What’s Hair Got to Do With It?” series as we sit down with Folu Seton, a communications PhD candidate, seasoned educator, and savvy digital strategist. With her trademark sass and confidence, Folu shares a deeply personal story of hair, growth, and self-acceptance. Though she currently rocks a relaxed style, Tolu’s heart is with her natural roots. She takes us from cherished childhood memories to mastering DIY styles, and through ...
In this episode of Unraveling the Knots, founder Shile Bello, opens up about her own natural hair struggles and successes. Shile is a wedding planner and founder of one of the leading DC based event planning firm, RAE Affairs. She explains how she transformed relaxed strands into gorgeous hair and confidence. As a professional, mother, and woman deeply rooted in authenticity and beauty, Shile shares the ups, downs, and surprises that shaped her natural hair journey from relaxer hair horror st...
Join us for an empowering conversation with Dr. Folake Kofo-Idowu, physician and natural hair advocate, as she shares her journey from chemical relaxers to embracing her crown. This episode is truly special as we kickoff our inspiring hair series...'What's Hair Got to do with it?' where we sit down with women and listen to their hair stories. In this episode of Unraveling the Knots, we dive into the science of hair health, the toxic beauty standards holding women back, and how natural h...
What if your natural hair journey could transform your mental well-being? In this revelatory episode, licensed therapist and natural hair advocate Summayyah Ojibara-Sadiq joins us to explore the profound connection between women’s hair (care) and mental health. For women navigating beauty standards, self-worth, and wellness, this conversation offers: How societal myths about “good hair” silently erode confidence and empowering strategies to reclaim your narrative.The surprising mental health ...
We know how it feels to be invisible when mainstream beauty standards don’t see us. In this heartfelt episode, Dami’s The Braided Girls uses art and natural hair to turn those feelings into power. We talk about her experience with hair, straight and natural, and Dami’s commitment to inspiring other women and girls to embrace the beauty of their crown. We also discuss the challenges of people with natural hair and how art can serve as a tool to change the existing negative narrative. Thi...
Ready to crack the code to flourishing natural hair? Join us as The 4C Hijabi unveils the not-so-secret secrets to thriving natural hair —because let’s be real, your curls deserve more than just hope and a prayer! From hair growth tips to busting hair/hair care myths, this episode is your ultimate guide to embracing and elevating your natural hair. Whether you’re the Queen of wash-days or no stress Lady, this episode is your cheat sheet to healthier hair! Tune in, take notes, and ...
Are the synthetic ingredients in your hair products helping or harming your natural hair growth journey? In this eye-opening episode of UTK, we dive deep into the world of synthetic ingredients—sulfates, parabens, silicones, and more...to uncover whether they’re helping or harming your hair’s health. Join us as we break down common synthetic ingredients, clear up the confusion, and help keep you better informed about hair care ingredients. Whether you're a clean beauty enthusiast or just curi...
Struggling with knots, tangles, and breakage? You're not alone! In this episode of Unraveling the Knots, we unravel the art of detangling natural hair. Whether you're a seasoned naturalista or just starting your journey, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we share expert tips, must-have tools, and techniques to make detangling a breeze. Tune in to transform your detangling process from a chore to a self-care ritual! Send us a text Send your questions about Afro-textured/coily hair to utk...
In this captivating episode of UTK, we dive deep into the rich cultural history and profound significance of natural hair in Nigeria. From ancient traditions to modern-day movements, natural hair has always been more than just a style—it’s a symbol of identity, heritage, and resilience. Join us as we explore the intricate hairstyles of Nigeria, their meanings, and how they communicate social status. We’ll also discuss the rise of the natural hair movement, and how Nigerians are reclaimi...
In this episode of Unraveling the Knots (UTK), we dive into the fascinating world of natural hair with 10 surprising facts that will SHOCK you. These facts may change the way you think about your hair! Whether you're a coily haired beginner or a natural hair pro, this episode is packed with insights on hair and science. Get ready to unlock some mysteries of your natural hair! Send us a text Send your questions about Afro-textured/coily hair to utkinhair@gmail.com. Check out your natura...
In this episode of UTK, we dive deep into some of the most common myths surrounding natural hair. From misconceptions about texture and growth to natural hair being too hard to manage, we’re here to set the record straight. Join us as we explore popular natural hair myths. Tune in to debunk these myths and empower yourself with the truth about natural hair care! Send us a text Send your questions about Afro-textured/coily hair to utkinhair@gmail.com. Check out your natural beauty hub, ÈYÍ DÁ...