Breaking Beauty Barriers: KJ Miller's Journey from Harvard to Mented Cosmetics

18/10/2024 40 min

Listen "Breaking Beauty Barriers: KJ Miller's Journey from Harvard to Mented Cosmetics"

Episode Synopsis

Bora explores the entrepreneurial journey of KJ Miller, co-founder of Mented Cosmetics. From her days at Harvard Business School to revolutionizing the beauty industry, KJ shares invaluable insights for aspiring brand builders.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• The inception of Mented Cosmetics: How a simple search for the perfect nude lipstick led to a game-changing beauty brand for women of color.
• The power of customer feedback: KJ's iterative approach to product development and the importance of listening to your audience.
• Navigating the VC landscape: How KJ secured funding in a challenging environment and her advice for today's entrepreneurs seeking investment.
• Growth strategies that work: The evolution of marketing tactics from organic social media and PR to retention channels like email and SMS.
• Inventory management challenges: Real talk about the persistent headaches of running a product-based business across multiple channels.
• The importance of adaptability: KJ's insights on pivoting strategies in a changing market, including her recent launch on TikTok Shop.
• Balancing multiple ventures: How KJ manages her time between running Mented Cosmetics, teaching, content creation, and other business pursuits.
• Leadership lessons: KJ's focus on being a motivating and clear leader for her newly rebuilt team post-acquisition.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the beauty industry, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge from someone who's been in the trenches. KJ Miller's story is not just about building a successful beauty brand; it's about perseverance, innovation, and the power of solving real problems for underserved markets.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that will leave you motivated to tackle your own entrepreneurial challenges and build a brand that makes a difference.

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