How I Built This with Guy Raz Ouidad hair products: Ouidad Wise
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Jul 8, 2024 
Ouidad Wise, founder of a successful hair care brand specializing in curly hair, shares her remarkable journey from a passion for curls to running a thriving New York salon. She discusses the challenges of being an immigrant entrepreneur, her innovative marketing strategies, and the emotional connections formed between hairstylists and clients. Ouidad also reflects on her personal battles, including a breast cancer diagnosis, and emphasizes her philanthropic work in research. Her inspiring story highlights resilience, love, and community in building a successful business.
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Word-of-Mouth Marketing
- Ouidad's salon opened to crickets, causing anxiety about their investment.
- A Condé Nast employee's positive experience and word-of-mouth referrals saved the business.
Leaving Lebanon
- Ouidad's family lived comfortably in Lebanon but faced unpredictable circumstances.
- Her father, fearing further losses, decided to leave Lebanon, saying, "pack up and get the hell out."
Childhood Bullying
- Ouidad and her sister were bullied for their curly hair and different appearance when they arrived in the US.
- They were called "the Mongol sisters" and Ouidad got into physical fights to defend them.