Episodios

  • From Idea to Sephora: How Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye Built Ami Colé Into a Cult-Favorite Beauty Brand

    From Idea to Sephora: How Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye Built Ami Colé Into a Cult-Favorite Beauty Brand
    May 20 2025
    #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.
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    1 h y 10 m
  • How Imani Ellis Turned a Living Room Meetup into a Cultural Empire

    How Imani Ellis Turned a Living Room Meetup into a Cultural Empire
    May 13 2025
    #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.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    1 h y 1 m
  • Stop Humbling Yourself: Owning Your Confidence with Alexis Barber

    Stop Humbling Yourself: Owning Your Confidence with Alexis Barber
    May 6 2025
    #290: Why do successful, confident women seem to get hate for taking up space?Today I’m bringing back content creator, podcast host of Too Smart for This, and founder of Too Collective, Alexis Barber, to chat about the burnout that comes with juggling multiple careers, what it takes to build a luxury brand, and how to deal with spaces that still question the value of female success.From dealing with hate comments to redefining what it means to be “relatable,” we talk about feeling the pressure to stay small while reaching for big dreams. Whether you’ve been told you’re too smart, or too ambitious, you’re just getting started.We Also Talk About…How Alexis built a luxury brand while navigating the pressures of maintaining a full-time corporate careerThe realities of burnout when you’re balancing multiple careers and passionsThe impact of hate comments and the challenges of staying confident as a woman in businessRedefining what “relatable” really means in a world that expects women to shrinkWhy being unapologetically ambitious is necessary—and how to own itResources:Follow Alexis on Instagram @alexisbarberFollow Too Collective on Instagram @toocollectiveListen to Alexis' podcast Too Smart for ThisCheck out Too Smart for This: A Journal to Build Self-Trust and Stop Settling for Less Than You Deserve by Alexis BarberSubscribe to Too Collective on SubstackCheck 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:LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.The RealReal | The RealReal is the world's largest and most trusted resource for authenticated luxery resale. Get $25 off your first purchase when you got to therealreal.com/lucky -- URL must be all lowercase! Nuuly | 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 BALANCEDLES.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    53 m
  • Choosing Alignment Over Ambition with Daria Burke

    Choosing Alignment Over Ambition with Daria Burke
    Apr 29 2025
    #289: What if success isn’t about climbing higher, but about getting closer to yourself?In this episode, I sit down with Daria Burke—former CMO, writer, and possibility model—to talk about choosing alignment over ambition, creating space to heal, and honoring your gifts even when they aren’t profitable.We talk about her bold decision to step away from high-powered titles, how somatic practices helped her reconnect with herself, and why radical honesty became the foundation of her memoir Of My Own Making.We Also Talk About…Why Daria chose to step away from her CMO roleWhat it means to give yourself permission not to want certain accoladesHow to meet high expectations while giving yourself graceHow somatic practices can help your healingWhy being unrelatable is a good thingResources:Follow Daria on Instagram @dariaburkeCheck out Of My Own Making: A Memoir by Daria BurkeCheck out Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth GilbertSubscribe 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: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.Nuuly | 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 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/LUCKYOpill | Opill is the first over-the-counter daily birth control pill. Use code BALANCEDLES for 25% off your first month at Opill.com.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.
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    1 h y 10 m
  • Burnout Isn’t the End— It’s an Invitation with Devi Brown

    Burnout Isn’t the End— It’s an Invitation with Devi Brown
    Apr 22 2025
    #288: Who said you have to have it all figured out? What if the messy middle is actually where the luck happens?In this episode, I’m joined by Devi Brown— master wellbeing educator, healer, host of Deeply Well, and author of the book “Living in Wisdom” to talk about what it’s really like to grow, heal, and build something meaningful.We get into being a beginner, giving yourself grace, and learning how to move with intention even when you’re not totally sure what’s next. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or unsure of your path—this one’s for you.We Also Talk About…Devi’s career path from media to becoming a wellbeing educatorHow to use burnout as a catalyst for growthWhy it’s okay not to be the expert in a skill right awayWhat it means to have a student mentalityThe power of slowing down and observingBuilding an affirmation practice that supports your growthLiving out the wisdom that’s already within youResources:Follow Devi on InstagramDevi’s new book: “Living Wisdom**:** A Path to Embodying Your Authentic Self, Embracing Grief, and Developing Self-Mastery”Listen to the Deeply Well podcastSubscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesCheck out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Keep in touch with She’s So Lucky:Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfredFollow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfredSponsors:LMNT | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.Nuuly | 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 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/BALANCEDNotion | | Try Notion AI for free when you go to notion.com/BALANCED.Dispea | Dipsea is the female-founded app for spicy audiobooks and more. Go to DipseaStories.com/BALANCED to start your 30-day free trial!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.
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    1 h y 12 m
  • How to Thrive Under Pressure with Sloane Stephens

    How to Thrive Under Pressure with Sloane Stephens
    Apr 15 2025

    #287: In this episode, I sit down with professional tennis player and founder of Doc & Glo, Sloane Stephens, to discuss the mental and physical toll of constantly being “on,” both on the court and in the public eye.

    Sloane shares how she navigates high-pressure moments, sets boundaries with social media, and applies the lessons learned from her athletic career like resilience, energy management, and knowing when to pivot.

    We also talk about…

    • Sloane’s journey from athlete to founder of the self-care brand, Doc & Glo
    • Why setting boundaries with social media is crucial
    • How to practice mental toughness and handle pressure, criticism, and high-stakes competition
    • Balancing performance with personal well-being as an athlete
    • How egg freezing can empower women to take control of their personal and professional future
    • Reclaiming your identity and life beyond sport

    Resources:

    • Follow Sloane on Instagram @sloanestephens
    • Check out the latest Doc & Glow products
    • Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
    • Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!

    Keep in touch with She’s So Lucky:

    • Follow on IG: @shessoluckypod @lesalfred
    • Follow on TikTok @shessoluckypod @lesalfred

    Sponsors:

    • 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.
    • Shopify | Get your online business up and running with Shopify. Sign up for $1 per month trial period at shopify.com/balancedblackgirl.
    • Cotton | Learn more about the benefits of cotton products for yourself, your style, and your space at TheFabricOfOurLives.com
    • Pique | | Nandaka coffee isn’t just clean—it’s next-level wellness in every sip. Get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop at Piquelife.com/BALANCEDLES


    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.
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    49 m
  • Girl Bossing Too Close to the Sun: Entrepreneurship Real Talk with Raven Ross

    Girl Bossing Too Close to the Sun: Entrepreneurship Real Talk with Raven Ross
    Apr 8 2025

    #286: What is entrepreneurship really like behind the glossy Instagram photos?

    We’re welcoming back Raven to talk about the wild ride of entrepreneurship — figuring it out, failing, and building something real.

    In this episode, Raven and Les sit down for a catch-up sharing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and you’re invited to join the conversation. Raven shares what it took to go from juggling multiple jobs to building a thriving Pilates brand.

    Les and Raven also get real about investing in your business, rebranding, asking for help, choosing purpose over clout, and why success is more than just going viral.


    We Also Talk About…

    • Raven’s journey from working multiple jobs to building a pilates business.
    • Navigating the awkward in between, and handling perceived success.
    • The real cost of starting a business and what expenses to prepare for.
    • What a successful brand’s team looks like and the key roles that keep things running.
    • How to structure your day as an entrepreneur so you can work smarter, not harder.
    • How to build your empire on your own terms.


    Resources:

    • Follow Raven on Instagram
    • Join Raven’s newsletter at https://pilatesbodyraven.com/
    • Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with Les
    • Check out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!


    Keep in touch with She’s So Lucky:

    • Watch on YouTube @shessoluckypod
    • Follow on IG: @lesalfred @shessoluckypod
    • Follow on TikTok @balancedles


    Sponsors:

    • 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 | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.
    • 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.
    • Pique | Nandaka coffee isn’t just clean—it’s next-level wellness in every sip. Get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop at Piquelife.com/BALANCEDLES


    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    53 m
  • How to Follow Your Creative Calling with Tia Williams

    How to Follow Your Creative Calling with Tia Williams
    Apr 1 2025
    #285: What does it take to fully step into your creative calling?In this episode, I sit down with bestselling author Tia Williams to explore her career journey from beauty editor to full-time novelist, proving that sometimes, there isn’t a single pivot—just a path you’ve always been walking.Tia shares how her love for romance fiction shaped her storytelling, why taking risks is key to success, and how writing her own love story helped her discover her true voice.We Also Talk About…Tia’s career experiences as a beauty editor and full-time fiction author.What it takes to get your book adapted for film.How to spark inspiration when you’re in a creative rut.How to turn your messy first draft into something amazing.How to create systems to support your creativity.Resources:Get your tickets to our April 3 live show in NYC.Get your tickets to our April 5 live show in Washington DC.Follow Tia on Instagram7 Days in June by Tia WilliamsThe Perfect Find by Tia WilliamsCheck out the paperback version of A Love Song for Ricki WildePreorder Tia’s new young adult novel, Audre & Bash are Just FriendsCheck out my new brand Spacious Rituals and get your virtual planner for 2025!Subscribe to my Substack, Balance with LesKeep in touch with She’s So Lucky:Watch on YouTube @shessoluckypodFollow on IG: @lesalfred @shessoluckypodFollow on TikTok @balancedlesSponsors: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 | LMNT is a zero sugar electrolyte drink mix with a research-backed ratio of electrolytes. To try it out go to drinkLMNT.com/balancedles to receive a free LMNT sample pack with any purchase.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.NOCD | NOCD offers accessible OCD treatment. Go to nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call with their team.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.
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    54 m
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