Glad We Had This Chat: Takes New York – Episode 2 Season 24 with Jordan Samuel
Released January 29, 2025
Introduction
In this lively episode of Glad We Had This Chat, hosted by renowned skincare expert Caroline Hirons from Wall to Wall Media, Caroline welcomes her friend and industry husband, Jordan Samuel. Filmed live in New York, the conversation dives deep into Jordan's fascinating journey from a professional ballet dancer to a successful facialist and skincare brand founder.
Guest Background and Connection
Jordan Samuel shares his early connection with Caroline, highlighting their decade-long friendship that blossomed from a shared passion for skincare.
"Since then, it's been love at first tweet, I guess." [04:41]
Jordan recounts how he first reached out to Caroline on Twitter in January 2014, inspired by her innovative approach to skincare that resonated with him during his aesthetic studies in Seattle.
From Ballet to Skincare: A Seamless Transition
Jordan details his transition from ballet to skincare, emphasizing how his experiences in the performing arts influenced his skincare journey.
"My skin was a wreck. It went from fine to sensitive, to broken out to irritated." [06:24]
Training at the School of American Ballet and performing professionally for 11 years, Jordan faced significant skin challenges due to constant makeup application and rigorous physical activity. This led him to pursue facials and skincare treatments, fostering a deep-seated passion for the industry.
Launching Jordan Samuel Skincare
Inspired by his hands-on experiences and mentorship under Kate Somerville, Jordan founded his skincare brand in October 2015. He discusses the challenges of starting a brand, particularly the high barriers to entry with existing skincare lines that demanded substantial initial investments.
"It's a bit like you feel like you're doing a bit for the environment, but actually, are you contributing to it? I don't know." [52:37]
Jordan explains his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and authenticity in building a brand that aligns with his values and expertise.
Navigating the Pandemic and Relocating to New York
The podcast delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Jordan's business plans. Originally planning to expand his facial studio to New York, the uncertainty and fluctuating real estate market forced him to adapt.
"We can reach more people doing this." [27:15]
Jordan highlights the strategic pivot from a local facial practice to an online and event-based business model, allowing for broader reach and sustainability during challenging times.
Fragrance Launch and Future Plans
A significant highlight of the episode is the discussion about Jordan's upcoming fragrance launch, "Cortile Dolce," inspired by his trips to Italy and collaboration with famed perfumer Luca Maffei.
"Cortile Dolce, which means a sweet courtyard, this is our Sicilian inspired fragrance." [40:50]
Jordan elaborates on the meticulous process of developing the fragrance, sharing anecdotes about connecting with Luca Maffei and the sensory inspirations behind the scent.
Quick Fire Questions: Personal Insights and Preferences
Caroline and Jordan engage in a fun rapid-fire segment, revealing personal preferences and quirky anecdotes that humanize the brand founders.
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Biggest Skincare Disaster:
"I was the sort of overly confident volunteer for, like, give me the peel." [38:14]
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Favorite Smell of a Product:
"Those three – the cleansing balm, Capri based scent, and Lindstrom Blue Cocoon." [45:13]
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Sephora or Ulta:
"Bigelow." [46:06]
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AM Routine or PM Routine:
"PM, nice." [46:23]
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City Break or Country Escape:
"I'm a city person." [46:41]
-
Dogs or Cats:
"Cats, because we have them." [47:30]
Collaborative Spirit in the Beauty Community
Jordan emphasizes the collaborative and non-competitive nature within their circle of beauty professionals in New York, fostering a supportive environment despite the high-pressure industry.
"We're all friends. We're all going together. We're going on a little journey together." [32:22]
Sustainability and Future Products
Looking ahead, Jordan discusses plans for expanding the product line with a second fragrance and reintroducing retinol, alongside commitments to eco-friendly packaging.
"We are trying to move to more post-consumer recycled packaging." [51:42]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Caroline expressing her excitement for Jordan's ongoing and future projects, reinforcing the strength of their professional and personal bond.
"Thank you being here. I'm going to be seeing you like three times while I'm here. What a joy." [51:31]
Final Thoughts
Jordan Samuel's journey from ballet to skincare exemplifies passion, resilience, and innovation. His insights into building a brand rooted in genuine experiences and dedication resonate deeply with listeners aspiring to make their mark in the beauty industry.
Notable Quotes:
- "When you have something ready to go, you launch it. When it's ready, you'll get it." – Jordan Samuel [22:10]
- "Beauty was always something I was very into. And so it made sense, obviously, for me to go into something in beauty." – Jordan Samuel [07:28]
- "If money wasn't an issue, wasn't an object, I would love to..." – Jordan Samuel [12:30]
Connect with Caroline Hirons and Jordan Samuel:
Stay tuned for more insightful conversations and expert tips every Monday and Wednesday on Glad We Had This Chat.