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Start Right Here! Podcast

Start Right Here! Podcast

By: Corynne L. Corbett
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Do you want to break into beauty, move up or pivot into the industry? BIPOC Beauty Pros share the secrets to how they broke in, moved up, and defined success in different business areas (Corporate, STEM, Creative, and Entrepreneurship). Sharing their personal stories and practical tips.2021 Beauty BizCamp®|The Chic Jones Company Art Career Success Economics
Episodes
  • Cataanda James: The Power of Possibility

    Cataanda James: The Power of Possibility
    Oct 3 2025
    Cataanda James, Chief Beauty Officer of CJ The Beauty Group, talks about building a career that surpasses her wildest dreams. Cataanda James is a textured-hair expert, educator, and beauty industry strategist whose career embodies resilience, authenticity, and the courage to follow one's passion. Raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, she grew up inspired by her mother's love of fashion and flawless grooming. By junior high, Cataanda was already recognized as the "cat-eye queen," sharing makeup techniques with classmates, and by her college years, she had turned her dorm room into a thriving salon. What others dismissed as a pastime became her undeniable calling. Her journey wasn't without resistance. While her mother supported her talent wholeheartedly, her father insisted that beauty was not a "real career." Determined to prove otherwise, Cataanda pursued cosmetology, but soon discovered that many schools neglected textured hair altogether. The turning point came when she enrolled at Dudley Cosmetology University in North Carolina, where she was immersed in technical excellence and, equally important, a business-first philosophy. There she learned to approach beauty not only as an art, but as a profession requiring entrepreneurship, customer service, and polish. From there, she built a diverse foundation, working in barbershops, marketing herself with Polaroid photos long before Instagram existed, and mastering speed and precision at Supercuts. A bold move to Baltimore in 2002 brought her closer to New York and opened new doors. At MAC Cosmetics, she refined her artistry, attracted a broader client base, and stepped into freelance opportunities that connected her to the wider beauty industry. In 2003, Cataanda began a career-defining relationship with L'Oréal. What started with consumer events grew into a nearly decade-long role at the New York Technical Center, where she became the company's Texture Expert. There, she collaborated with chemists and product developers, testing innovations for brands such as L'Oréal Paris, Garnier, Carol's Daughter, and Dark & Lovely, and influencing product launches worldwide. Following the pandemic's impact on the industry, Cataanda joined The Mane Choice as a Brand Educator, focusing exclusively on curly and textured hair. While that chapter was valuable, her entrepreneurial spirit ultimately led her to create CJ The Beauty Group, a consultancy dedicated to helping beauty brands innovate with integrity, test products rigorously, and design inclusive strategies that authentically serve textured-hair consumers. Through every chapter, her philosophy has remained the same: step boldly into opportunity, nurture authentic relationships, and trust that what is meant for you will not pass you by. From Kalamazoo roots to global stages, Cataanda James is proof that when passion is paired with persistence, the sky is not the limit, it's only the beginning. Key Takeaways from Cataanda's Journey Passion Always Leaves Clues - What you loved as a child often holds the seeds of your purpose. Pay attention to those early sparks. Don't Let Doubt Define You - Even when others can't see your vision, trust yourself enough to pursue it with bold confidence. Education Is More Than Skill - True success requires not just talent but also professionalism, business acumen, and the courage to treat your passion like a career. Say Yes to Opportunity - Sometimes the next step isn't clear. Leap anyway—the door may lead to more than you ever imagined. Relationships Are Currency - Genuine connections open doors that strategy alone cannot. Stay in touch, stay authentic, and stay open. Quotes by Cataanda "What's meant for you will never pass you by; your only job is to walk boldly into the opportunities placed in front of you." "You don't need to have the entire plan; sometimes you just have to move, trust God, and figure it out along the way." "Even when you're scared, do it anyway, fear doesn't mean stop, it means step forward with faith." Connect With Cataanda Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cataandaj/ Website: https://cataandaj.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cataandaj X: https://x.com/cataandaj
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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • Starr Blackshere: Finding Your Creative Niche in Beauty (& Mastering Your Craft)

    Starr Blackshere: Finding Your Creative Niche in Beauty (& Mastering Your Craft)
    Apr 4 2025
    Starr Blackshere is a powerhouse in the beauty industry, a visionary artist whose journey from childhood fascination to professional mastery is nothing short of inspiring. With an innate eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Starr has transformed her passion for beauty into a thriving career that spans hair, makeup, and the intricate art of brow design. Born and raised in San Diego, California, Starr's journey into beauty began at an early age, influenced by the dazzling world of pageantry. Her curiosity and natural talent led her to refine her skills in hair styling and makeup artistry long before she stepped into the professional space. By her teenage years, she was already styling hair for friends and adult clients alike, demonstrating an unparalleled dedication to her craft. Her career took a transformative turn when she joined MAC Cosmetics - a brand that not only shaped her technical expertise but also introduced her to the world of high fashion, editorial artistry, and corporate professionalism. She became a key figure in the industry, opening MAC's first Harlem store and later working in the elite Flatiron District showroom, where she collaborated with some of the most influential names in beauty and fashion. Working alongside legends such as Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath at New York Fashion Week refined her artistry and deepened her passion for creating beauty that transcends trends. While her expertise spans multiple disciplines, Starr found her true calling in brow artistry. Her innovative approach to eyebrows goes beyond shaping - she sees brows as an expression of identity, confidence, and self-assurance. Through years of refining her technique, she has mastered nano artistry, a cutting-edge approach to permanent makeup that enhances natural beauty with precision and elegance. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: beauty should complement, not overpower. Her work is celebrated for its ability to bring out the best in each individual, seamlessly blending artistry with authenticity. In 2021, Starr took a bold step in her journey and founded Blackshere Beauty, a premier beauty studio dedicated to offering top-tier services in makeup, lashes, and brows. She believes that creativity thrives in an environment of passion and fulfillment, and she instills this philosophy into every aspect of her work. For Starr, success isn't measured solely by accolades or financial milestones - it's found in the joy of creating, the confidence of her clients, and the lasting impact of her artistry. Through her journey, she has proven that with dedication, adaptability, and a fearless pursuit of passion, the possibilities are limitless. Key Takeaways 1. Find Your Niche and Own It – Starr explored multiple areas of beauty before discovering her true passion for brow artistry. Your journey may take different paths, but once you find your calling, commit to mastering it. 2. Stay Open to Learning and Evolving – From hair to makeup to brows, Starr constantly refined her skills by seeking new knowledge. Growth comes from embracing change and staying curious about your craft. 3. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone – Moving from San Diego to New York City and stepping into high-profile roles wasn't easy, but Star took the leap. If you want to elevate your career, be willing to take bold steps. 4. Persistence Opens Doors – Starr's journey to MAC wasn't guaranteed, but she prepared, strategized, and positioned herself for success. Keep showing up, refining your skills, and opportunities will follow. 5. Attention to Detail Sets You Apart – Whether it's shaping brows or enhancing a face with makeup, Starr's precision and artistry have made her stand out. The little details can make a big impact in your work. 6. Confidence and Professionalism Are Key – Breaking into new spaces requires more than just talent. Starr's ability to present herself professionally and articulate her expertise helped her grow in the industry. 7. Protect Your Joy and Passion – Success isn't just about money or accolades; it's about finding joy in your work. Starr believes that happiness fuels creativity, and staying passionate is the ultimate key to long-term success. Quotes 1. "Success as a creative isn't about how much money you make or how many jobs you have - it's about protecting your joy. When you find joy in your craft, creativity flows effortlessly." 2. "Your journey will have twists and turns, but every experience, good or bad, teaches you something valuable. Stay open, stay learning, and keep evolving." 3. "Confidence comes from preparation. If you want an opportunity, do the work, sharpen your skills, and show up ready. When the door opens, you'll be prepared to walk through it." 4. "Excellence is in the details. Whether it's brows, makeup, or business. Refining the small things sets you apart and turns good work into great work." Connect with Starr Website - ...
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Shifting the Natural Hair Narrative Part 3: Natasha Gaspard, Erin Maybin and Debra Hare-Bey on Representation, Advocacy, and the Art & Science of Textured Hair

    Shifting the Natural Hair Narrative Part 3: Natasha Gaspard, Erin Maybin and Debra Hare-Bey on Representation, Advocacy, and the Art & Science of Textured Hair
    Oct 20 2023
    We wrap up our three-part series on Shifting the Natural Hair Narrative. I'm thrilled to be joined by three incredible guests at the forefront of a revolutionary movement in the world of hair—Erin Maybin, Natasha Gaspard, and Debra Hare-Bey, founding members of the NHBC. In this episode, we dive deep into natural hair advocacy, design, and the cultural significance of textured hair. Our first guest is Erin Maybin, a creative force who not only possesses an artistic flair but also brings a wealth of expertise in graphic design to the forefront. As a key contributor to the NHBC, Erin has been instrumental in crafting visual narratives that redefine the conversation around textured hair. You can find her at rdbwellness on Instagram, where her passion for design and commitment to inclusivity shine through. Her ability to merge creativity with purpose is truly inspiring, making her a vital voice in the natural hair movement. Next up is Natasha Gaspard, a media professional and founder of Mane Move Media. Natasha's journey is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity. Her media company is a testament to her commitment to filling the gaps in understanding about natural hair, its cultural significance, and the broader impact on health and identity. On Instagram, you can connect with her at @manemove, where her platform is a celebration of natural beauty, a space to challenge preconceived notions, and a testament to the importance of self-love. And finally, we have Debra Hare-Bey, a true maestro in the art of braiding and founder of Oh My Heavenly Hair. Debra's journey in hair care has transcended mere styling; it's a celebration of culture, history, and identity. Under her brand, she provides expert hair care and spearheads International I Love Braids Day. This powerful initiative transcends visual aesthetics to encapsulate braids' rich history and cultural significance. You can follow her journey and expertise at @ohmyheavenlyhair on Instagram. Buckle up for an engaging conversation with Erin, Natasha, and Debra as we explore the intersections of culture, advocacy, and design in the dynamic world of textured hair. Key Takeaways 1. Power of Advocacy: The transformative power of advocacy in reshaping perceptions and policies related to natural hair. The NHBC, led by Erin, Natasha, and Debra, actively advocates to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. 2. Cultural Connection: Natasha emphasizes the deep cultural connection in natural hair. Beyond being a physical attribute, it represents a profound aspect of identity, culture, and legacy. The NHBC works diligently to bridge gaps in understanding between natural hair, health, economics, and culture. 3. Economic Empowerment: Debra sheds light on the economic empowerment aspect of the natural hair industry, particularly in licensing for hairstylists. The NHBC was pivotal in advocating for licenses to empower natural hair stylists, providing economic opportunities and stability. 4. International I Love Braids Day: The significance of International I Love Braids Day as a celebration of history, culture, design, and beauty associated with braids. The visual impact of this event serves as a powerful tool to educate and create awareness. 5. The Crown Act: Erin delves into the importance of The Crown Act, which addresses discrimination based on natural hairstyles in workplaces and educational institutions. The NHBC actively engages with legislators to bring about necessary changes in laws and policies, ensuring a more respectful and inclusive world for natural hair. 6. Overhaul of Education: The urgent need for an overhaul in cosmetology education, which has not been updated for over 50 years. The NHBC is at the forefront of efforts to revamp education systems, ensuring that future stylists are equipped to cater to the diverse range of hair textures and types. 7. Holistic Approach to Hair Care: Erin emphasizes the interconnectedness of hair and overall health. The condition of one's hair often reflects broader aspects such as stress, diet, and health. 8. The Power of Visuals: Debra underscores the importance of visuals in advocacy, using International I Love Braids Day as a prime example. Striking, memorable images serve as a gateway to meaningful conversations, helping to change perspectives and inspire action. 9. Individual Impact: Natasha encourages individuals to become advocates in their own spaces. Whether through one-on-one conversations, hosting discussions, or even creating workshops, everyone can contribute to changing perceptions and spreading awareness about the beauty and significance of natural hair. Advocacy starts at home, in the community, and in personal interactions. Timestamps [00:02:15] Erin provides insights into the founding of NHBC, its mission, and the broader goals of advocating for natural hair rights and representation. [00:06:12] Natasha ...
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    54 mins
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