Advertise on podcast: It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin

In this solo episode, I’m closing out the year by reflecting on commitment, balance, and what it really looks like to come home to yourself. This is the final recording of the season, and it felt important to pause, zoom out, and share what has shifted in me over the past year, personally, physically and energetically.  I talk about how stability has quietly entered my life, from feeling more grounded in relationships to waking up naturally without an alarm, and how my sabbatical created a clear ‘before and after” version of who I am. I share why I no longer see beauty as something that lives only on the outside, and how my relationship with makeup, wellness, and identity has evolved into something much deeper and more holistic.  This episode also dives into one of the biggest lessons of my year: blood sugar regulation. I explain how learning to balance protein, fat, and carbohydrates in every meal transformed my energy, mood, focus, and menstrual health, and why I believe this conversation is especially important for women. What started as curiosity became a full lifestyle shift that helped me move from emotional volatility into a more consistent flow state, without losing my sensitivity or emotional depth. I also open up about self-funding the podcast, scaling back my team, recommitting to the work more intentionally, and what it means to truly stand behind something you’re building, even when it stretches you. I share my gratitude for this community, what it means to be in the top 3% of podcasts on Spotify, and why building a village has never been about numbers, but about resonance. This episode is an invitation to slow down, check in with your body, honor your cycles, and consider what balance might look like for you moving into the next year. If you’ve been craving more stability, clarity, and alignment in how you live and create, this conversation is for you. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections 00:52 Commitment and Personal Growth 01:56 Embracing Stability and Routine 04:04 The Power of Inner and Outer Beauty 05:59 Balancing Blood Sugar for Better Health 13:04 Podcast Achievements and Future Plans 15:11 Conclusion and Looking Forward to 2026 Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin   Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin    Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m sharing something that’s been sitting on my heart for a while, something I’ve avoided saying out loud because it felt vulnerable, humbling, and honestly… very on-brand for a show called It Takes A Village. The truth is: this show has grown into something bigger than what I can sustain on my own. For years, I’ve been quietly funding ITAV with the money I earn from makeup jobs, pouring every ounce of passion, curiosity, and belief into creating conversations that matter. But creating a show at this level takes real resources, and I’ve finally reached the moment where I can’t do it alone anymore. I talk about what it has meant to build this show from scratch, the behind-the-scenes costs no one sees, and why it took me years to feel comfortable asking for support. I also share the intention behind my Networking Guide, why it exists, what it represents, and how it became both a resource for you and a way for me to keep doing what I love with it takes a village. By buying the Build Your Village Video eBook here, you support our upcoming season. Please consider buying it for yourself or a friend as a gift for the holidays.  https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   I also share today about trust, friendship, support systems, community, and the kind of relationships that hold you together as you evolve. I talk about the friends who have become anchors in my life, the people I’ve outgrown, the energetic shifts that come with healing, and how learning self-love has transformed the way I choose the people around me. This episode is for anyone who’s navigating transition; financially, emotionally, spiritually, and trying to honor what is falling away while making space for what is trying to grow. It’s for those of you building something from the ground up, learning how to ask for help, or redefining what it means to have a village. Thank you for being here. Thank you for caring about the show. And thank you for being part of a community that allows me to keep creating something I truly believe in. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Appeal 00:10 The Journey of Creating the Show 01:03 Crowdfunding and Networking Guide 05:56 The Importance of Trust in Relationships 08:51 Personal Growth and Friendships 15:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin   Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin    Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com

In this solo episode, I’m opening up about a part of my life I’ve kept private. I said “I love you” to a man I’ve been dating, and it slipped out. It was one of those moments where your heart speaks faster than your mind, and you hear yourself say the thing you’ve been rehearsing internally for months. And it showed me how much I've softened and how differently I’m choosing to move through love. I talk about why I waited to share this and how much I've changed over the years, prioritizing IQ vs. EQ in dating, how masculine energy shaped my past relationships, and the journey of embracing feminine energy.  I share the parts of womanhood I used to resent, including my cycle and the way it slowed me down, and how embracing femininity has changed everything for me including my pace, boundaries, creativity, body, self-love, and finally the type of love I am able to give. This episode is about what it means to love yourself so deeply that loving someone else becomes an extension of that wholeness. If you’re navigating your own becoming, softening, healing, or learning how to love in a way that feels safe, grounded, and aligned,  you’ll find resonance here. This is an intimate look at the woman I’m becoming, the faith guiding me, and the kind of love I pray to embody daily.  Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 0:00 Introduction and Personal Update 01:16 Show Reminders and Announcements 01:44 Dating and Personal Reflections 07:08 Embracing Feminine Energy 13:56 Self-Love and Personal Growth 16:16 Conclusion and Future Plans Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin   Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin    Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

Jackie Aina Asamoah, content creator, entrepreneur, and co-founder of FORVR MOOD, joins us today to talk about what it looks like to pivot, evolve, and build something that feels deeply true to who you are becoming. After spending over a decade shaping the beauty industry and advocating for visibility and representation, Jackie reached a moment where she felt called into a new direction. What started as a feeling she couldn’t ignore eventually became FORVR MOOD, now one of the leading fragrance brands in the market. Jackie shares the reality of launching her company in the middle of the pandemic, trusting her vision when nothing was guaranteed, and watching a 45K-person waitlist form almost overnight. She talks about the courage it took to go from influencer to founder and the discipline required to build something with longevity. Jackie also opens up about her childhood and the memories that shaped her love for fragrance. We talk about her advocacy in the beauty industry, why authenticity still matters in a rapidly changing creator landscape, and the mentorship, community, and faith that carried her through every obstacle. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Welcome to 'It Takes a Village' 01:04 Meet Jackie Aina 06:26 Childhood and Family Dynamics 08:25 Pursuing a Career in Beauty 12:13 Navigating Success and Personal Growth 18:08 Faith and Overcoming Challenges 26:10 Family and Cultural Influences 30:31 Launching FORVR MOOD 33:49 The Candle Boom and Unexpected Success 35:55 Navigating Brand Identity and Personal Growth 39:13 The Rise of Fragrance Content 44:51 Balancing Content Creation and Advocacy 56:28 Challenges and Triumphs of Building a Brand 01:03:34 Jackie's Village Learn more about Jackie Aina: Jackie Aina is a trailblazing content creator, entrepreneur, and beauty industry advocate who has spent over 16 years reshaping the way women of color are seen, valued, and catered to in beauty. Known for her sharp wit, honest storytelling, and cultural influence, Jackie built one of the most trusted platforms in the digital beauty space, using her voice to push brands toward deeper inclusivity and accountability. She is the founder and CEO of FORVR Mood, a lifestyle and fragrance brand rooted in luxury, softness, and self-care for Black women. Beyond entrepreneurship, Jackie is recognized as one of the most influential beauty creators of her generation, blending creativity, social commentary, and business strategy in a way that has set new standards across the industry. She continues to evolve the creator-to-founder blueprint, showing what’s possible when Black women build, lead, and take up space unapologetically. Connect with Jackie Aina: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jackieaina/?hl=en  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jackieaina?lang=en  YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzJIliq68IHSn-Kwgjeg2AQ  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/forvrmood/  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@forvrmood  Website https://forvrmood.com/  Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin   Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin    Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the evolution of my creative process, the shifts, the resistance, the momentum, and the deep inner work that’s happening behind the scenes. Lately, I’ve been feeling this pull to create differently and with more intention and more effort. Not forced effort and reluctance, but chosen effort and excitement. The kind that is sharpening my skills, expands my capacity, and reconnects me to the reason I started creating in the first place. I talk about my childhood and my first experience with creativity, the pressure to always be “good,” the difference between studying vs. improvising, and how abundance can actually make you less creative if you’re not paying attention. I get into why effort matters, how momentum is built, and why people who are wildly successful often are the ones who mix talent with consistent effort. This episode is a deep dive into my own creative mindset shift for anyone who’s navigating a creative transition, feeling stuck, or craving a deeper relationship with their own voice. If you’ve been asking yourself what's next creatively, you may find resonance with where I am.  Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Nostalgic Beginnings: The Donkey Kong Challenge 00:47 Welcome to 'It Takes a Village' 03:35 Creativity and the Creative Process 10:51 Effort vs. Effortless Creativity 13:55 The Michael Jordan of Creativity 15:42 Reflecting on Creative Effort 24:29 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin  ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin   Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin    Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook   Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com

Alex Ayodele, CEO and founder of Balcony People, joins us today to break down the Blood Type Diet, the viral framework that quietly transformed my life before we ever even spoke. After losing her gallbladder at a young age and navigating years of unexplained digestive issues, acne, inflammation, and fatigue, Alex discovered the power of eating according to blood type. What started as a personal healing journey became a calling to help others understand their bodies, their biology, and their emotional and spiritual health. She walks us through her transformation, she explains the differences between blood types, the real meaning of “highly beneficial,” “neutral,” and “avoid” foods, and why inflammation shows up differently for each person. She also dives into regeneration, food quality, emotional capacity, fatigue, hormones, and why so many of us are exhausted, inflamed, and disconnected in a culture that eats around the clock. Alex also opens up about the deeper side of healing, the mindset shifts, the spiritual grounding, the role of faith, and the power of asking different questions as you rebuild trust with your body. She shares how she created Balcony People as both a wellness concierge and a reminder that we are meant to be surrounded by people who lift us higher. Through her story, you’ll understand why your period, mood, energy, and digestion may be signaling more than you think, and why healing is both physical and spiritual work. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself… “how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Introduction and Mindset Coaching 02:04 Personal Health Journey 05:16 Discovering the Blood Type Diet 08:20 Interview with Alex Ayodele 08:33 Understanding Blood Types and Diets 10:33 Implementing the Blood Type Diet 28:26 Long-Term Benefits and Personal Experiences 36:56 A Painful Period in Costa Rica 37:30 Discovering Blood Sugar Balance 38:03 Struggles with Weight and Energy 38:24 Skin and Environmental Changes 39:37 The Impact of Blood Type on Health 40:10 The Role of Blood Type in Diet and Exercise 47:05 Balancing Awareness and Digestion 48:39 The Importance of Mindset in Health 49:19 Spirituality and Personal Growth 57:38 Integrating Faith and Coaching 01:09:05 Balcony People: A Wellness Concierge 01:12:54 Subscription and Membership Programs 01:14:26 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Learn more about Alex Ayodele: Alex Ayodele is the CEO and founder of Balcony People, a premium wellness concierge supporting individuals and families in transforming their health through integrative nutrition, blood type strategy, and conscious lifestyle redesign. Through her six-month coaching program and the Balcony People Wellness Circle, Alex helps people restore their bodies, reconnect with their intuition, heal inflammation, and create sustainable, aligned habits that support their emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Get the blood type diet book referenced in our conversation.  Connect with Alex: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alexayodele_/  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-ayodele-b56a9121b  Website https://alexayodele.com/  Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

In this solo episode, I’m taking a deep dive into the Sephora ecosystem, from Sephora Squad to Sephora Storefront to Sephora Accelerate, and break down why the beauty giant’s strategy is one of the smartest models in modern creator marketing. Drawing from my own journey as a longtime makeup artist and creator, we’ll explore how Sephora built an interconnected system that supports influencers, brands, and community all at once and how you can apply the same thinking to your own creative life. I will share my hot take on affiliate links, authenticity, and why creators today need a true ecosystem instead of relying on one platform. I also reflect on her early days in beauty, the evolution of influencer culture, and how creators can build momentum by understanding the difference between followers and community. Using Sephora as a metaphor, I break down how to think of yourself as the “retailer” of your own world with platforms acting as your storefronts, advocates as your affiliate network, and your real community as your most powerful accelerator. This episode is both a business lesson and a mindset shift for anyone building something online. Whether you're a creator, a founder, or someone stepping into your next chapter, this conversation will help you understand the value you bring and how to create in a way that reflects it. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with.’ Have you ever asked yourself… “How can I be more aligned, powerful, peaceful, or successful?” When you embrace who you are and trust the people walking with you, momentum builds, purpose reveals itself, and your life begins to shift in the most beautiful ways. Awareness is life’s balancing tool — and you are in the right place at the right time, always. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:27 Networking and Building Your Village 03:03 Deep Dive into Sephora's Business Model 03:42 Affiliate Links and Influencer Marketing 09:14 Sephora Squad and Influencer Programs 15:26 Sephora Accelerate and Brand Development 17:32 Creating Content and Marketing Strategies 29:52 Conclusion and Coaching Opportunities Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the Build Your Village Video eBook here: https://stan.store/delinamedhin/p/build-your-village-ebook  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think Of You: http://www.delinamedhin.com 

Welcome to Build Your Village, a video e-book for the Village community. I’m Delina Medhin, the host of It Takes a Village. This video ebook is designed to help you explore how to network, meet people, and build your own community. On the show, we have discussed how I built my village and how I have helped others build theirs. Now it’s time to talk about how to build your own. In this episode, I open up about the origin story of why the Build Your Village E-book needed to happen now. It was a divine download that came to me during one of my morning walks. What started as an inspired thought became a calling to create a space for self-funded women who are building something on their own. I will share my honest experience as a self-funded entrepreneur, the moments of loneliness, anger, and isolation that shaped me, and the realization that independence doesn’t have to mean doing it all alone. Community is what saved me. My village is what saved me. Build Your Village is both a guide and a healing offering. It’s for the self-funded, the solopreneurs, and the dreamers who want to create meaningful work while staying connected to themselves and to others. Through my story, I invite you to reconsider what support really looks like, to build from a foundation of connection, faith, and trust instead of burnout and self-reliance. This episode is a reflection on what it truly takes to grow something from the ground up and a reminder that you are not meant to do it by yourself. It’s an invitation to create from a place of wholeness, support, and belief that your vision is possible. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:05 Exciting New Project: Build Your Village 04:55 The Journey to Building Your Village 07:06 Personal Reflections and Challenges 12:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Join my newsletter, This Made Me Think of You: www.delinamedhin.com See all the details in the show notes here.

In this solo episode, Delina dives into feminine money energy and what it means to move from chasing to attracting. She shares how burnout reshaped her relationship with ambition, the difference between selling and marketing, the importance of community, the transformative power of gratitude, and the power of only wanting what truly wants you back. Delina reflects on how influential people in her life have guided her career and offers thoughts on finding alignment in your personal and professional life. She discusses the balance between marketing and sales, emphasizing the importance of being overdoing. Delina also addresses the challenges of burnout and the significance of prayer, meditation, and self-reflection in aligning with opportunities and achieving personal goals. From selling Krispy Kreme donuts in her early days to navigating the modern pressure to “always be doing”, this episode is a reminder that success doesn’t have to feel hard; it can feel honest. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool, and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:04 About the Show and Its Purpose 03:04 The Power of Alignment 13:12 Marketing vs. Sales 21:37 Personal Growth and Authenticity 23:33 Final Thoughts Connect with Delina:  ⁠Instagram https://www.instagram.com/delinamedhin  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@delinamedhin ⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/delinamedhin  Threads http://threads.net/@delinamedhin  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Access the full show notes here.

Wende Zomnir, a beauty industry disruptor and co-founder of both Urban Decay and Caliray, joins us today to talk all about breaking beauty in two different decades, the serendipitous aerobics class connection that led to partnering with Cisco Systems co-founder Sandy Lerner, and how finding plastic trash on a deserted island in the Maldives sparked her mission to create truly sustainable beauty. She breaks down the wild early days of Urban Decay - from tracking down Shirley Manson through Minneapolis phone books to creating the first social media campaign by paying cool New York girls to pass out makeup to their friends. Wende also opens up about her extensive wellness routine that includes surfing, weightlifting, yoga, and competitive tennis, and why she believes hormone replacement therapy should be accessible to all women. Plus, she shares the origin story behind Urban Decay's legendary All Nighter setting spray (spoiler: it involved spraying her face with actual hairspray during beauty pageants). Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Introduction 00:09 Wende's Career Beginnings at Cisco Systems 00:37 Sandy Lerner's Influence and Female Empowerment 01:19 The Evolution of the Beauty Industry 03:58 The Serendipitous Meeting with Sandy 07:43 Wende's Son and Family Life 08:53 Wende’s Passion for Surfing and Sports 12:27 The Birth of Caliray and Sustainability in Beauty 14:10 Challenges and Innovations in Sustainable Packaging 18:33 The Evolution of Beauty Marketing and Social Media 31:27 The Iconic All-Nighter Setting Spray 35:24 Mitigating Life Drift: Hormone Replacement Therapy 37:18 The Beauty Drink: A Lifestyle Brand 38:55 The Importance of Wellness and Exercise 41:26 Fundraising and Building Relationships 45:05 The Caliray House: A Unique Workspace 47:05 Exciting New Products: Lip Guards 49:19 Challenges and Team Dynamics in a Startup 55:01 Leadership Lessons and Personal Balance 57:58 The Magic of Yoga and Beginner's Mind 01:00:41 SPF Routine and Product Recommendations 01:05:26 Global Aspirations and Brand Identity 01:09:05 Advice for Aspiring Founders Learn more about Wende Zomnir: Wende Zomnir is a modern beauty industry pioneer. She unleashed Urban Decay in 1996, filling the void with makeup that fueled a beauty revolution. Urban Decay democratized beauty and wellness, and Wende paved the way for the indie beauty movement and future beauty entrepreneurs. After running over plastic bottles with her surfboard, she turned her sights on another beauty revolution: sustainability and performance clean formulas. In January 2022, Wende founded Caliray, a West Coast beauty and wellness brand serving face and planet. Caliray creates performance clean beauty products with skincare-level ingredients, and infuses the products with sexy sustainability and innovative packaging solutions.  Connect with Wende: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wendezomnir  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@wendezomnir  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/caliray/  Website https://caliraybeauty.com/  TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@caliray  Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/caliray/  Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠ TikTok @delinamedhin⁠ YouTube @delinamedhin⁠ Threads @delinamedhin⁠  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Head to the show notes website here.

Naeemah LaFond, a powerhouse hairstylist and global ambassador, joins us today to talk about her journey from playing with Barbie hair in Brooklyn to revolutionizing texture education in the beauty industry. She opens up about the pivotal 2020 guide that sparked industry-wide conversations about supporting Black hairstylists, the creation of her game-changing Black On Set mentorship program, and how she built Texture On Set into the must-attend event for professionals. Naeemah also shares deeply personal stories about her life-threatening health scare that led to an emergency blood transfusion, growing up between East Flatbush and Haiti, and how meeting her husband changed everything about what partnership could look like. Plus, she talks about why community building has become her superpower. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Welcome 00:37 The Influence of Crystal Wright 02:11 Early Inspirations in Hair 03:54 Growing Up Between Brooklyn and Haiti 07:34 Finding Love and Support 11:40 Career Challenges and Breakthroughs 14:44 Health Scare and Resilience 21:21 Rising Through the Ranks at Amika 24:16 Becoming a Global Ambassador 26:53 Advocating for Black Hairstylists 32:41 The Impact of Black Squares on Social Media 34:56 The Role of Allyship in Activism 35:53 Immediate Changes and Industry Response 38:25 Creating Black On Set: Mentorship and Masterclasses 50:41 The Evolution of Texture On Set 57:40 The Importance of Community in the Hair Industry 01:00:57 Personal and Professional Influences Resources: Crystal Wright’s episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s1-ep-3-why-you-need-a-business-mentor/id1580081881?i=1000539012807  Learn more about Naeemah LaFond: Naeemah LaFond is an internationally acclaimed hairstylist and the 2024 North American Hairstylist Awards Editorial Hair Stylist of the Year. Celebrated for her iconic runway looks and high-profile global ad campaigns, she is renowned for her mastery of all hair textures. As a platform artist and on-air beauty expert, LaFond has played a pivotal role in launching top beauty brands and has trained thousands of professionals across 15 countries, redefining industry standards. In 2013, LaFond made history as the first Black woman appointed Global Artistic Director for a major international beauty brand, shattering barriers in an industry long marked by exclusivity. She currently serves as the Global Brand Ambassador for Olaplex, one of the most prestigious and innovative haircare brands in the world. A powerful advocate for diversity, she authored a viral guide on inclusivity and co-developed Pinterest’s groundbreaking hair texture search tool. LaFond is also the visionary founder of Texture On Set, the first professional industry event championing texture education in fashion and beauty, and leads Black On Set, a groundbreaking mentorship program transforming the careers of Black women in fashion. She is represented by The Wall Group, one of the most sought-after artist representation agencies in the industry. Connect with Naeemah: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/naeemahlafond/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/textureonset/  Website https://textureonset.com/  Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠ TikTok @delinamedhin⁠ YouTube @delinamedhin⁠ Threads @delinamedhin⁠  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Get the full show notes of this episode here.

Sanja Komljenovic, a strategic powerhouse and founder of ONA agency, joins us today to talk all about building brands that matter, the art of empathy-driven marketing, and how her refugee experience shaped her problem-solving mindset. She breaks down the real work behind successful campaigns for Nike, Ulta Beauty, and other major brands, plus the importance of hiring people with lived experience to tell authentic stories. Sanja also opens up about fleeing Bosnia during the genocide as a child and how sports taught her resilience and leadership. Plus, she talks about launching South Central Wine while running a 30-person agency, and why she's the friend you call when you need the cold hard truth and a strategic game plan. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:08 Feeling Behind Despite Achievements 01:43 Sanja’s Bosnian Background 01:50 War and Refugee Experience 04:04 Adjusting to Life in America 06:36 Sibling Dynamics and Confidence 10:08 Sports and Life Lessons 12:40 Mindset and Problem-Solving 14:26 Friendship and Empathy 24:11 Starting Ona Agency 28:24 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 33:17 The Benefits of a Three-Day Reset 34:44 Managing a Growing Team 35:41 Opening a New Office Space 36:49 The Importance of Discipline in the Workplace 38:38 Working with Freelancers and Overseas Talent 40:25 Building a Brand Strategy 43:48 Launching a New Brand 46:26 The Role of Empathy in Marketing 51:23 Choosing the Right Influencers 57:34 Starting South Central Wine 01:01:41 Personal and Professional Influences 01:05:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources: Digital Detox Guide: https://delinamedhin.myflodesk.com/digitaldetoxguide  Learn more about Sanja Komljenovic: Sanja Komljenovic is the Founder, CEO, and Executive Creative Director of ONA Creative—an advertising agency and production company based in Los Angeles. ONA, which means “her” in Bosnian, was born out of Sanja’s desire to create socially driven, culturally resonant work—especially around women’s rights and representation for marginalized communities, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Since launching in 2015, ONA has worked with global brands such as Nike, Jordan Brand, Converse, US Soccer/USWNT, WNBA, Ulta Beauty, Oakley, Meta, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), multiple pro sports teams, and women-led startups. Over the course of her career, Sanja has helped lead campaigns featuring world-class athletes and cultural icons including Serena Williams, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Jennifer Lopez. In 2024, she was inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Achievement. Connect with Sanja: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sanjak  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjakomljenovic/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/onacreative LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/onacreative/  Website https://www.onacreative.com/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/southcentralwine/  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/southcentralwine/  Website https://southcentralwine.com/  Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠ TikTok @delinamedhin⁠ YouTube @delinamedhin⁠ Threads @delinamedhin⁠  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com  Visit the show notes here.

Alisa Carmichael, a powerhouse investor and partner at VMG Partners, joins us today to talk all about the world of venture capital, private equity, and growth equity for founders who want to understand what they're actually signing up for. She breaks down the different stages of investment, from early-stage VC checks to multi-million dollar growth equity partnerships, and explains why most investors don't want to be married to your business forever. Alisa also opens up about being one of the few Black women in investment, her journey from Yale to investment banking to finding her calling working with founders, and how she co-created Parity Collective to support early-stage founders of color. Plus, she shares what she's really looking for when founders pitch her (hint: it's all about the "we" not the "I"), why you need to build relationships before you need them, and how she balances being a mom of two while traveling for work.   Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Introduction 00:23 Understanding Venture Capital and Private Equity 01:24 Alisa's Educational Background and Early Influences 04:31 Journey into Investment Banking 08:09 Transition to VMG Partners 08:41 The Role of Founders and Investment Strategies 14:49 Stages of Investment Explained 18:35 Focus on Consumer Fund and Parity Collective 21:58 Navigating the Beauty Industry 22:28 The Challenges of Trade Shows 23:05 The Importance of Gratitude in Business 23:30 The Beyonce of Beauty 24:32 Key Traits of Successful Founders 25:00 Understanding the Beauty Market 25:59 The Role of Self-Awareness in Partnerships 27:55 Building a Strong Business Plan 30:39 The Benefits and Risks of Retail Exclusivity 33:05 Direct-to-Consumer Strategies 36:40 The Goal of Exiting a Business 37:42 Alternative Funding Options 42:04 The Importance of Relationships in Business 44:24 Personal and Professional Mentorship 47:01 Balancing Parenthood and Career 48:20 Conclusion and Future Topics Learn more about Alisa Carmichael: Cited as one of “The Beauty Industry’s Most Powerful Financiers” by WWD, Alisa is a veteran consumer investor who has been a key member of the VMG Partners team for 10 years. While at VMG, she has been a key leader on investments in companies including The Honey Pot Company, Briogeo, Danessa Myricks Beauty, BeautyStat, and Rowan. She is a trusted advisor to many founders, a wife, and a mother to two toddler boys! Connect with Alisa: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alisacarmichael/  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-carmichael-26114973/  Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠ TikTok @delinamedhin⁠ YouTube @delinamedhin⁠ Threads @delinamedhin⁠  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Explore this episode's full show notes here.

Beatrice Dixon, founder and CEO of The Honey Pot Company, joins us today to talk all about building a $380 million wellness empire that started with a dream visit from her grandmother. She opens up about her year-long struggle with bacterial vaginosis, the ancestral wisdom that led to her first product formulation, and how she scaled from making vulva wash in her kitchen to securing major retail partnerships with Target and Walmart. She also gets real about the business side of success, breaking down venture capital versus private equity funding, and the realities of being a Black female founder. Plus, she dismantles the romanticized version of entrepreneurship we see on social media, shares why focus beats having five different businesses, and talks about the importance of caring for your body while building wealth. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders & creatives share ‘who I built this with’. Have you ever asked yourself…“how can I be happier, healthier, peaceful, famous, powerful, or successful?” When you want change, your life will shift, you let go, and begin to trust other people. This new energy will attract new people & create momentum in your life that reveals your purpose. Awareness is life’s balancing tool and you are in the right place at the right time, always.  00:00 Introduction 00:20 Celebrating Achievements 00:51 The Honey Pot Company 01:49 Empowerment and Womanhood 03:55 The Origin Story 11:00 Building the Business 14:59 Acquisition and Growth 19:36 Insights on Investment 20:22 The Reality of Business Investments 21:16 The Stress and Sacrifice of Building a Business 22:03 Indicators for Raising Capital 22:36 Scaling Strategies and Personal Preferences 24:14 The Concept of Conscious Capitalism 25:02 Misunderstandings About Black Women Founders 26:46 Protecting Your Peace as a Leader 27:46 Future Trends in Wellness and Skincare 29:15 New Product Launch: Calming Herbal Pads 30:39 The Realities of Entrepreneurship 31:35 The Importance of Focus and Intuition 36:29 The Role of Humility and Gratitude in Success 38:53 Understanding and Caring for Our Bodies 42:43 Acknowledging the Support System 43:27 Where to Find Honey Pot Products Learn more about Beatrice Dixon: Bea Dixon is the CEO, Co-Founder, and Chief Innovation Officer of The Honey Pot Company, the personal wellness brand “made by humans with vaginas, for humans with vaginas.” ® Bea created The Honey Pot Company in 2014 out of great personal need during an eight-month battle with bacterial vaginosis. The constant symptoms and fruitless search for solutions led her to formulate what became The Honey Pot Company’s first product, a vulva-safe wash.  The Honey Pot Company currently offers feminine washes, wipes, tampons, pads, and products for personal health and wellness. Today, The Honey Pot Company’s plant-derived products can be found in 4.6 million U.S. homes and in retailers nationwide. Connect with Beatrice: Instagram @iambeadixon   X @iambeadixon LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-dixon/  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/thehoneypotco/ Instagram @thehoneypotco Website https://thehoneypot.co/  TikTok @thehoneypotco Connect with Delina: ⁠Instagram @delinamedhin⁠ TikTok @delinamedhin⁠ YouTube @delinamedhin⁠ Threads @delinamedhin⁠  Website ⁠www.delinamedhin.com Dive into the full show notes here.

In this episode, Delina Medhin welcomes Franchesca Ramsey, an award-winning writer, actress, and digital creator, for an open conversation about her ability to see the potential in others and learning to trust your instincts. Franchesca shares how her love of helping others succeed has shaped her career, from connecting friends with opportunities to supporting emerging talent behind the scenes. We dive into Franchesca’s reflections on overcoming imposter syndrome, as a Black Queer woman in entertainment, and the journey to trusting her own voice. She opens up about the importance of authenticity, pouring into friendships, and why believing in your gut can be the best gift of growing older. This mini episode is filled with thoughtful insights, personal stories, and practical wisdom on how to support those around you, trust your intuition, and create lasting connections in your personal and professional life. If you’re seeking inspiration to lead with generosity and self-belief, this episode is for you. Welcome to It Takes A Village with Delina Medhin, where inspiring founders and creatives share ‘who I built this with’. 00:00 Championing Women and the Power of Pouring Into Others 01:00 Building Chosen Family Through Friendship 02:00 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Trusting Your Gut 03:10 Spotting Talent and Creating Community Learn more about Franchesca Ramsey: Franchesca "Chescaleigh" Ramsey is an acclaimed actress, writer, and public speaker known for creating and starring in the award-winning web series MTV Decoded. She gained viral fame with her groundbreaking video “Sh*t White Girls Say…to Black Girls,” which has amassed over 11 million views and influenced academic discourse. With nearly 20 years in digital media and over a decade in film and television, Franchesca has written for Comedy Central’s The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore, co-produced the iCarly reboot, and guest-starred on NBC’s Superstore. Her debut book, Well That Escalated Quickly, was nominated for an NAACP award. Franchesca is also a sought-after speaker and consultant, engaging audiences on topics including social justice, content creation, and personal branding, and she currently co-hosts the podcast Lemme Fix It! Her debut feature was selected for the 2024 Sundance fellowship program. Link to the full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bNx... Link to the full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Connect with Franchesca Ramsey: Instagram   / chescaleigh   TikTok   / franchesca_leigh   Facebook   / chescaleigh   YouTube    / chescaleigh   X (Twitter)   / chescaleigh   Website: https://www.franchesca.net/ Lemme Fix It! Podcast Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5qKcw24... YouTube    • Lemme Fix It!   Connect with the Host, Delina Medhin: Instagram:   / delinamedhin   TikTok:   / delinamedhin   YouTube:    / @delinamedhin   Threads: https://www.threads.net/@delinamedhin Website: https://www.delinamedhin.com/ #ittakesavillage #franchescaramsey #community #womenempowerment #impostersyndrome #personalgrowth