WHERE BRAINS MEET BEAUTY

Jodi Katz
WHERE BRAINS MEET BEAUTY

The beauty industry's top talent share their wisdom, advice and authenticity with our WHERE BRAINS MEET BEAUTY™ listeners. Topics include: work/life balance, how to hustle and how to handle challenges - all discussed with great honesty and humor. Conversations humanizing the beauty exec experience. Hosted by Jodi Katz, Founder and Creative Director of Base Beauty Creative Agency. New episodes launch every other Wednesday - follow us to get alerts! Episodes can be found on all streaming platforms and our website www.wherebrainsmeetbeauty.com Follow us on LinkedIn @JodiKatz and @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency for announcements, BTS, and more! For inquiries about the show, please email Natasha@basebeauty.com.

  1. 2D AGO

    Episode 280 - Nancy Berger & Jennifer Parrott - The Unexpected Path to Success: How Resilience and Authentic Relationships Shape Your Career Journey

    Ever wondered how a casual compliment or a brief conversation could shape your career? Networking isn’t always about grand gestures or polished pitches—it can be as simple as noticing someone’s shoes, discussing the weather, or striking up a chat with the person standing by themselves in a crowded room. Sometimes, the smallest interactions can spark the most meaningful connections.In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Nancy Berger Founder of Start With a Good and Jennifer Parrott CEO of Locks & Mane for an inspiring discussion about the power of authentic relationships. Together they explore how genuine connections—built on generosity, shared stories, and a sense of community—drive success in business and beyond.Success as they reveal throughout the conversation isn’t always linear. Nancy once dreamed of being a special education teacher before she found her true calling in publishing, where she helped launch the iconic ‘Allure Best of Beauty’ seal. Jennifer’s career journey took a few unexpected turns, from being a blackjack and poker dealer to selling door-to-door before she discovered her passion for hair extensions and helping others.Each of their stories reveals a powerful truth that discovering what doesn't align with your purpose can be just as transformative as finding what does. Whether it’s Nancy’s pivotal meeting with Glamour’s publisher Kathy Leventhal or Jennifer’s unexpected financial rescue from a Home Shopping Network order, they’ve learned that resilience and adaptability are essential in overcoming challenges.One of their biggest takeaways? The jobs that don’t work out are just as important as the ones that do. Recognizing when something isn’t the right fit can be a powerful guide toward discovering your true purpose and when financial setbacks arise, quick thinking, strong relationships, and the ability to pivot can transform potential disasters into opportunities for growth.Throughout this heartfelt episode, Jennifer and Nancy both emphasize the importance of patience and positivity, recognizing that success often takes longer than expected. The key they agree, is to keep moving forward—even when the path ahead feels uncertain.Ready to learn how genuine connections and resilience can propel you forward?

    54 min
  2. MAR 12

    Episode 279 – Dawn Hilarczyk & Vimla Black-Gupta - Turning Career Pivots into Power Plays, Bold Moves & Big Breaks

    How do childhood dreams translate into powerhouse careers? What happens when your path turns unexpectedly and leads to something even bigger?In this episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Dawn Hilarczyk, COO of Borghese and Vimla Black-Gupta, former CEO of Ourself, to uncover the unexpected twists, bold pivots, and defining moments that shaped their journeys.Vimla was once voted “Most Likely to Own a Spa” in high school, a prediction that eerily foreshadowed her path in beauty and wellness. Meanwhile, Dawn had two vastly different dreams: becoming a veterinarian or a Fly Girl on In Living Color. So how did they both end up leading major beauty brands?As they climbed the ranks, they learned that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about seizing the right moment, making fearless decisions, and trusting your instincts. From navigating corporate shake-ups to launching startups, leading legacy brands, and surviving industry disruptions, they share the behind-the-scenes realities of making it in beauty and business.Of course, there were risks—big ones. Dawn recalls a career-defining moment that involved champagne, a leap of faith, and never looking back. Vimla talks about the power of gut instincts, the relationships that shaped her career, and the unexpected industry shift that changed everything.What’s next for these powerhouse women? Vimla is diving into the world of wellness, consulting, and shaping the future of World Springs, a luxe mineral hot springs destination. Meanwhile, Dawn is on a mission to transform Borghese from an iconic Italian skincare brand into a modern must-haveAnd to top it all off, we’re playing a foodie game to pick some fun NYC dining spots, wine bars, and unexpected culinary cravings you’d never guess!

    51 min
  3. FEB 26

    Episode 278 - Maria Warrington - Stepping into Sexual Wellness: From Keds to plusOne at Beacon Wellness Brand

    What does it take to lead with authenticity, embrace career pivots, and champion a mission that blends wellness and beauty? In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz sits down with Maria Warrington, CEO of Beacon Wellness Brand, for an insightful conversation on leadership, authenticity, and the evolving role of wellness in our lives.Maria’s journey is anything but conventional. As a young student, she was laser-focused on becoming a pediatrician, drawn to the precision of surgery and the world of medicine. But life had other plans. A shift toward business and finance set her on a new trajectory—one that led to a 13-year tenure at Wolverine Worldwide and, ultimately, the helm of Beacon Wellness.As Maria shares her story, a theme emerges: the power of adaptability. From navigating corporate finance to stepping into the sexual wellness space, she embraced each challenge with curiosity and confidence. Her move into the sexual wellness and beauty industry wasn’t just a career shift—it was deeply personal. A passion for health and wellness led her to a company dedicated to normalizing conversations about self-care.Leading in an evolving industry takes more than business acumen—it requires authenticity, a steady hand, and a data-driven mindset. Maria shares how she stays grounded in high-pressure moments, why hiring the right people is key, and how she fosters a culture where personal wellness is just as important as professional success.Maria also highlights the power of mentorship, shaping the next generation of leaders through guidance and support. Maria’s journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of embracing change—proving that every career pivot can lead to something greater.If you’re looking for an episode that explores career pivots, leadership in wellness, and the importance of staying true to yourself, this conversation is for you. For more updates and exclusive content, connect with us on LinkedIn @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency or @JodiKatz. If you'd like to try any plusOne products use code WBMB20 for 20% off at checkout.

  4. FEB 12

    Episode 277 – Danessa Myricks & Anncy Rowe - Power Moves: Embracing Growth, Courage, and Self-Discovery

    What happens when two powerhouse women sit down to talk about leadership, resilience, and the courage to embrace the unknown? You get an episode you can’t afford to miss.In the latest episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, host Jodi Katz brings together Danessa Myricks, Founder and CEO of Danessa Myricks Beauty, and Anncy Rowe, Chief Commercial Officer of Rodan + Fields, in front of a live studio audience for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and thought-provoking.As the conversation unfolds, we uncover a shared thread in both women’s lives: the innate desire to teach and lead. Danessa takes us back to her childhood, where she organized mock classrooms and dreamt of guiding people up mountains—a metaphor that perfectly captures her lifelong mission to inspire. Anncy reflects on her upbringing as the eldest sibling, where leadership wasn't just a role; it was part of her identity.Anchored by the quarter's theme, "Power Moves: Excellence in Leadership," the discussion dives deep. Anncy shares insights from Sarah Jakes Roberts’ book Power Moves: Ignite Your Confidence and Become a Force, discussing how personal power can shift depending on our environment and how crucial it is to activate that power with intention. Danessa opens up about her journey—from feeling powerless to recognizing her strength. Her mantra? Do the things that scare you. It’s a challenge she embraced over the past year and one she’s carrying forward.Leadership styles and the impact of feedback also take center stage. Danessa reflects on her evolution from leading solely with empathy to understanding the necessity of clear expectations and constructive feedback. Anncy candidly shares her shift from leading through fear to fostering joy and meeting individual needs. Both emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces for honest communication—a key to authentic growth.What makes this episode stand out isn’t just the remarkable achievements of these women—it’s their vulnerability. They talk about self-doubt, the power of no, and resilience's importance. It’s a raw, authentic look at what it means to grow, lead, and own your power.If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration, strategies for personal growth, or simply a reminder that even the most successful leaders have moments of uncertainty, this episode is for you.For more updates and exclusive content, connect with us on LinkedIn @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency or @JodiKatz.

    1h 3m
  5. JAN 31

    Episode 276 - Trailblazers of Beauty – The 2024 Listen Again Awards!

    We’re thrilled to honor the 2024 Listen Again Award winners in this special Where Brains Meet Beauty episode. Join us as we celebrate the transformative journeys of Emily Culp, Selena Cox, and Jeanine Lobell—three extraordinary women whose resilience, innovation, and leadership have driven remarkable success.We invite you to unplug and journey through their awe-inspiring stories, rich with dynamic insights and captivating perspectives. These pioneering women guide us into a world where taking risks, embracing the unknown, and embodying resilience open the door to life-changing success.Emily Culp’s journey as the CEO of Cover FX exemplifies integrity-driven leadership and adaptability. From her coffee-fueled, high-energy days balancing creativity, financial acumen, and family life to her evolution from CMO to CEO, Emily reflects on the importance of fostering supportive environments and embracing growth. Her episode is a masterclass in navigating a fast-paced career while staying true to your values.In Episode 265, part of our ‘Artistry Wisdom’ quarter, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen, Jeanine Lobell shares her transformative journey. From dreaming of joining the circus to becoming a beauty industry icon, Jeanine reflects on building groundbreaking brands like Stila from the ground up. She explores the power of intuition, and creativity, redefining beauty standards, and offering decades of insight into entrepreneurship.From selling candy bundles as a child to shaping retail beauty as the Executive Director DMM of Beauty at CVS, we loved diving into Selena Cox’s inspiring career journey in Episode 275. Selena throughout her career has paved the way for beauty inclusivity, revamped shade ranges, and created tools for individuals with disabilities. She’s empowered her team and forged meaningful connections nationwide, proving that small wins and human connections can spark extraordinary change.Each of these remarkable women has carved their path, overcoming challenges, embracing change, and empowering others along the way. Their stories inspire us to take risks, stay true to our values, and never underestimate the power of persistence. As we celebrate their achievements, we’re reminded that extraordinary change begins with a bold vision and a commitment to making a difference.Tune in, be inspired, and celebrate the power of innovation with this episode, out now. #WhereBrainsMeetBeauty #ListenAgainAwards #Podcast #BeautyIndustry #Innovation #Trailblazers #WomeninBeauty #SelenaCox #JeanineLobell #EmilyCulp

    1h 34m
  6. 12/18/2024

    Episode 275 – Selena Cox - Executive Director DMM of Beauty at CVS – From Small Moments to Big Impact: How Selena Cox Champions Everyday Empowerment

    What if the small moments in life held the biggest power to transform? In this milestone episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we sit down with Selena Cox, Executive Director DMM of Beauty at CVS, to explore her career journey, innovative retail leadership approach, and how she champions beauty accessibility and inclusivity.As a self-proclaimed dreamer and a dedicated collaborator, Selena’s career has been defined by a knack for connection and her ability to turn everyday challenges into meaningful opportunities. From her early days selling candy bundles as a child to holding 11 roles in 10 years within Macy’s, Selena shares the valuable lessons she’s learned about adaptability, empathy, and the importance of embracing diversity in every sense.Now at CVS, Selena’s work goes beyond beauty products, helping customers find joy in everyday moments—from a great mascara to a life-changing foundation match. She highlights her innovative achievements, such as reorganizing shade runs from dark-to-light to better serve a diverse customer base and creating inclusive tools for individuals with disabilities. Her ability to empathize with the customer experience has transformed the way CVS connects with its communities nationwide.Selena’s story is a testament to the power of small wins, human connection, and dreaming big while staying grounded in purpose. Tune in to discover how she leads with heart and inspires her team to make a difference.For more updates and exclusive content, follow us on Instagram @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast (https://www.instagram.com/wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast).

    38 min
  7. 12/11/2024

    Episode 274 - Dr. Naana Boakye - Board Certified Dermatologist and Owner of Bergen Dermatology - From Rejection to Radiance: Dr. Naana Boakye’s Unstoppable Path to Skincare Innovation

    What happens when rejection becomes the catalyst for greatness? In this episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we sit down with powerhouse Dr. Naana Boakye, a board-certified dermatologist whose journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to holistic skin health. From overcoming medical school rejection to consulting for A-list celebrities and launching two of her own skincare lines, Dr. Boakye shares the remarkable path that has defined her career.As the firstborn of two Ghanaian doctors, Dr. Boakye’s interest in dermatology blossomed at a young age. Her passion for medicine was clear early on, but her path to success was anything but linear. After facing a devastating medical school rejection that could have shattered her dreams, Dr. Boakye chose to rise and persevere. She earned a master’s in public health before specializing in dermatology, where she combined her medical expertise with a focus on wellness-driven skincare. This unique approach set her apart and led to high-profile consulting opportunities during the pandemic. Working with clients and celebrities like Naomi Osaka, John Legend, and the Wade brothers, Dr. Boakye developed custom skincare formulations tailored to their individual needs, solidifying her reputation as a sought-after expert in the field.Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Boakye has launched two successful skincare brands of her own: Karité, a family-founded line inspired by her Ghanaian roots, and Dr. Naana Beauty, which emphasizes maintaining skin pH and addressing hyperpigmentation. Her story is one of persistence, passion, and purpose, offering invaluable lessons for anyone navigating challenges in their journey.For more, follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive content!

  8. 12/04/2024

    Episode 273 - Romain Gaillard - Founder & CEO of The Detox Market on Retail, Resilience, and Reinvention

    What started as a two-week pop-up experiment quickly grew into a global clean beauty revolution. In this episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we dive deep into the career journey of Romain Gaillard, Founder & CEO of The Detox Market. What began as a curiosity-driven concept soon blossomed into a movement that reshaped the beauty industry.Romain shares his 15-year journey of transforming The Detox Market from a space for discovery into a global brand recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. From navigating the challenges of retail to making bold moves in e-commerce, he reflects on the lessons learned along the way. The brand's success was solidified when WWD named it one of the world’s best concept stores, followed by expansion to six vibrant locations and a loyal customer base that has supported the brand from the start.While he reflects on the simplicity of those early days, Romain emphasizes the importance of growth, evolution, and resilience. Passion for his work has kept him going, but it’s the power of strong teams and learning to take breaks that have allowed him to balance both life and business. With sustainability now at the forefront of consumer demand, Romain continues to tackle the challenge head-on, diving deep into product life cycles to reduce environmental impact.This episode offers a masterclass in perseverance, creativity, and innovation, with Romain’s insights providing invaluable lessons for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship and clean beauty.Don't forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive off-air content.

    38 min
    4.2
    out of 5
    55 Ratings

    About

    The beauty industry's top talent share their wisdom, advice and authenticity with our WHERE BRAINS MEET BEAUTY™ listeners. Topics include: work/life balance, how to hustle and how to handle challenges - all discussed with great honesty and humor. Conversations humanizing the beauty exec experience. Hosted by Jodi Katz, Founder and Creative Director of Base Beauty Creative Agency. New episodes launch every other Wednesday - follow us to get alerts! Episodes can be found on all streaming platforms and our website www.wherebrainsmeetbeauty.com Follow us on LinkedIn @JodiKatz and @BaseBeautyCreativeAgency for announcements, BTS, and more! For inquiries about the show, please email Natasha@basebeauty.com.

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