Judy Koloko: Pioneering High-End Hair Care for Coily, Textured, and Afro Hair

Join us for a compelling conversation with Judy Koloko, the visionary founder of The Steam Bar, as she takes us on her journey from childhood hair rituals in Nigeria to pioneering a premium hair brand for coily, textured, and afro hair. Discover how Judy's early experiences with traditional hairstyles and her professional background as a model agent working with high-profile artists laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial success. We also discuss the universal challenges young Black girls face with hair care, shedding light on the cultural significance and emotional impact of those formative hair rituals.

Learn the strategic secrets behind launching a high-end beauty brand in iconic department stores like Selfridges and Harrods. Judy shares her invaluable insights on leveraging personal connections, the importance of impeccable timing, especially amidst the Black Lives Matter movement, and the often-ignored data on Black consumer spending power. You'll also get a glimpse into the revolutionary concept of "skinification" in hair care, where treating the scalp as skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can transform hair health, featuring Judy's innovative three-step ritual and unique fragrances inspired by Africa and the Caribbean.

In our final discussion, Judy opens up about the entrepreneurial hurdles she faced, from fundraising challenges to product development setbacks. Hear about the critical role of community support in her journey and the importance of fostering generational wealth and opportunities within our own communities. Judy's passion for educating the next generation about natural hair care and her unwavering commitment to empowering women of color shine throughout the episode, offering a blend of inspiration and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and beauty enthusiasts alike.

A new podcast in which Johnette Barrett, educational psychologist, seeks out inspirational working women who have transformed their lives and that of others through their courageousness and compassion.
The conversations that follow are sometimes eye-opening, sometimes heart- breaking and sometimes humourous.

Diary of a Working Woman (DOAWW) is hosted by Buzzsprouts .com.

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