Makers Mindset

Shani Darden, the founder of Shani Darden Skincare, has built a name as Hollywood’s go-to skincare expert. She is trusted by stars like Jessica Alba, Chrissy Teigen, and Kelly Rowland for her results-driven approach. After training under a top dermatologist, she developed her own formulations, launching her flagship studio in Beverly Hills in 2019 and securing a coveted spot at Sephora in 2020. In this episode, Shani talks about how she went from mixing masks in her childhood home to creating one of the most sought-after skincare brands. She opens up about navigating the beauty industry, building a brand without a roadmap, and staying hands-on with clients while scaling a business. You’ll hear her insights on effective product development, the power of social media, and the strategies she learned over her career. Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction[04:08] Creating Retinol Reform and entering the skincare industry[05:14] Transitioning from service-based work to product development[06:27] Challenges in launching a skincare brand[07:35] The importance of trial and error in product creation[08:42] How Sephora became a major retail partner[09:56] The role of packaging and refining the brand[10:45] Building a team that aligns with brand values[11:33] Why hiring slow is crucial for long-term success[12:18] Social media’s impact on personal branding[13:09] How client feedback shapes product development[14:21] The challenges of balancing retail deadlines with product quality[15:37] Tips for building an engaged online community[16:42] Overcoming self-consciousness in social media marketing[17:15] Experimenting with content strategies for better engagement[18:29] Finding balance between content creation and business operations[19:45] Adjusting to entrepreneurship and leadership roles[20:56] The importance of mentorship and learning from mistakes[21:33] Rapid-fire business and skincare advice[22:12] Common skincare mistakes and how to avoid themResources Mentioned:Retinol Reform | WebsiteSephora | WebsiteShani Darden Skincare | WebsiteFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindset

Season 3 of Makers Mindset is here, bringing even deeper insights, bold conversations, and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs, visionaries, and leaders. Hosted by Nancy Twine, this season continues to explore the journeys of top founders, business leaders, and changemakers.Over the past two seasons, Makers Mindset has uncovered the pivotal moments, challenges, and mindset shifts that shape extraordinary careers. This season goes even further, offering real-world strategies, habits, and behind-the-scenes experiences that define lasting success.The first episode of Season 3 premieres on February 20th.Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindset

Powerhouse entrepreneur Anastasia Soare is the founder, CEO, and driving force behind Anastasia Beverly Hills — one of the fastest-growing brands in the beauty industry. After immigrating from Romania in 1989, she started her business as a one-woman operation and quickly created a revolutionary  technique now known as the Golden Ratio Eyebrow Shaping Method. She went on to build an empire — and she’s certainly raised a few eyebrows along the way. Anastasia is passionate about sharing her journey to inspire others, and believes that if she can do it, anyone can. Follow Anastasia Soare:Instagram: @anastasiasoareFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Ginny Wright is an experienced leader with a robust background in luxury brand management. She’s held pivotal roles, including president of Kiehl's and global deputy GM at Ralph Lauren Fragrances, along with strategic positions at L'Oréal Luxe.  Known for her strategic and innovative approach to growth, Ginny has significantly boosted brand prestige and consumer engagement at the companies she's served. She always talks about owning your mistakes so that you can grow and ultimately thrive — and why she never backs down from a challenge. Follow Ginny Wright:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginny-wright-b0221b1Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Alisa Carmichael is the proud mom of two growing boys and Investment Partner at VMG Partners. Like many investors, she got her start in investment banking before joining the ever-evolving world of private equity. Unlike many of her fellow investors, however, Alisa was a black woman who was grappling with imposter syndrome at every turn. Fast-forward to today and she’s not just embracing her role as mother, daughter, investor, mentor, and friend, but owning it. Her unrelenting focus on the BIPOC community inspired the firm’s formation of The Parity Collective: an initiative focused on investing in founders of color across the consumer industry.Follow Alisa Carmichael: Instagram: @alisacarmichaelhttps://www.vmgpartners.com/Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Artemis Patrick, President and CEO of Sephora North America, shares her journey of 18 years within the beauty retail industry. She discusses navigating imposter syndrome, particularly for women in leadership, and emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and diversity in fostering an inclusive culture. Artemis highlights Sephora's commitment to supporting BIPOC founders and empowering female leadership. She also touches on balancing her personal life with her role as CEO and shares insights on authenticity and her passion for celebrating milestones.

Vivian Tu is a former Wall Street trader, personal finance educator, public speaker, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. She’s the founder and CEO of Your Rich BFF, which helps make the rules of personal finance accessible to non-experts and marginalized communities. She and Nancy chat about “doing it scared," what needs to change to empower female founders and entrepreneurs, and making the leap to take your side hustle full time. Follow Vivian Tu:Instagram: @your.richbff https://www.yourrichbff.com/Follow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Isabela Rangel Grutman is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and model. Born in Brazil, Isabela began modeling at 13, and at a young age learned a lot about work ethic and business partnerships. In 2022, she founded Rangel, a premium clothing line now available at major retailers like Revolve and ShopBop. She also founded Isa Grutman Jewelry, which just opened its first flagship store in Miami’s prestigious Design District. She and Nancy dive into the importance of setting a vision  and starting small.Follow Isabela Grutman:Instagram: @isabelagrutman @shoprangel @isagrutmanjewelrywww.shoprangel.comwww.isagrutman.comFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Michelle Cordeiro Grant is a serial entrepreneur, brand builder and innovator.  After spending the tenure of her career at household names in the retail industry, she moved into the startup world. In 2016, she founded LIVELY, a Leisurée brand inspiring women to live passionately, purposefully and confidently. In three years, she grew the brand from concept to 5 stores, 165,000+ ambassadors, and $105M acquisition. In 2022, Michelle founded her next venture, GORGIE, an energy drink brand. Michelle and Nancy dive into the experience of selling a business, the power of collaboration, as well as diving into Michelle’s wellness journey. Follow Michelle: @the_michellegrantFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset

Hannah Bronfman is an angel investor, founder and influencer who is credited with bringing wellness to the forefront of the digital age. She and Nancy delve into evolving your business operations to break through revenue ceilings, what Hannah looks for in founders she invests in and much more. They also discuss how Hannah has used others' doubts to fuel her journey, and her tools for overcoming self doubt. Follow Hannah Bronfman:Instagram: @hannahbronfmanFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetpodcastTikTok: @themakersmindset