Naked Beauty Podcast Episode Summary

Title: Beauty and DEI: Where Do We Go From Here
Host: Brooke DeVard Ozaydinli
Release Date: March 3, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of the Naked Beauty podcast, host Brooke DeVard delves deep into the pressing issues surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the beauty industry and beyond. Amidst rising anti-DEI legislation and shifting corporate landscapes, Brooke brings insightful conversations with influential women, including her mother Jerry Devard, Sur John, and Kendra Bracken Ferguson, to explore strategies for thriving in challenging times.

The State of DEI: Insights from Jerry Devard and Sur John

Understanding the Rollback of DEI Initiatives

Brooke opens the discussion by addressing the alarming trend of anti-DEI legislation affecting various sectors, including education, corporate environments, and the beauty industry. She highlights how major corporations like Amazon, Google, Walmart, and Meta have scaled back their DEI programs to comply with new directives, potentially reducing workplace diversity and limiting opportunities for people of color.

Notable Quote:

“DEI initiatives were developed because we recognized that there was a level playing field. We weren't starting at the same point.” – Sur John [09:24]

Jerry Devard’s Perspective on DEI in the Beauty Industry

Jerry Devard emphasizes the critical role DEI has played in transforming the beauty industry. She discusses how diversity in product offerings and inclusive marketing strategies have not only enriched the market but also fostered a sense of belonging among consumers. However, with the current rollback of DEI efforts, there's a risk of reversing these positive changes.

Notable Quote:

“The beauty industry has grown exponentially as a result of DEI. When I was starting my career, I couldn't walk into a store and have a huge shade range of foundations that matched.” – Jerry Devard [05:07]

Sur John on Fighting Back Against DEI Backlash

Sur John passionately argues against the notion that advocating for DEI equates to victimhood. He attributes the resilience and continued fight for equality to the legacies of figures like Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing that DEI efforts are about leveling the playing field, not granting unfair advantages.

Notable Quote:

“We are not victims here. Do not give into that. That's what they want us to think.” – Sur John [03:07]

Maintaining Mental Health and Self-Care Amidst Challenges

The conversation shifts to strategies for maintaining mental health and resilience. Sur John advises recognizing and validating one's emotions while staying focused on long-term goals. He stresses the importance of community support and proactive self-care practices to navigate the stresses caused by systemic setbacks.

Notable Quote:

“You have to recognize that this is a distraction, right? Eyes on the prize.” – Sur John [18:57]

Empowering Black Founders: Insights from Kendra Bracken Ferguson

Navigating Anti-DEI Legislation in Venture Capital

Kendra Bracken Ferguson, founder and CEO of Brain Trust Founder Studio, shares her experiences navigating the challenges posed by anti-DEI legislation. She discusses the legal battles faced by organizations like Fearless Fund and the subsequent impact on black founders in beauty and wellness, highlighting the need for strategic adaptations to continue supporting minority entrepreneurs.

Notable Quote:

“The laws that were meant to protect us as a community that was already getting less funding, less opportunity, wasn't in the rooms, is now really being turned against us.” – Kendra Bracken Ferguson [41:49]

Strategies for Supporting Black-Owned Brands

Kendra offers actionable advice for listeners to support black-owned businesses. She recommends being intentional with purchasing decisions, highlighting specific brands such as Brown Kind, Edom, and Lamique Beauty. By directing financial support to these brands, consumers can help sustain and grow black entrepreneurship despite legislative and corporate challenges.

Notable Quote:

“Be smart about where you spend your money and why. Don't be lazy about it.” – Kendra Bracken Ferguson [22:25]

Self-Care Techniques for Sustained Resilience

Kendra emphasizes the importance of self-care practices to maintain energy and focus. She advocates for mindfulness activities like prayer, meditation, and limiting exposure to overwhelming news. Additionally, she shares practical skincare tips and the significance of mental health initiatives within the community.

Notable Quote:

“I'm using my voice. I don't want us to get into a space where we're provoked to act because we're the first ones to get taken down.” – Kendra Bracken Ferguson [32:11]

Optimism and Community Collaboration

Despite the challenges, Kendra remains optimistic about the collective power of the community. She encourages collaboration, strategic planning, and maintaining authentic voices to drive positive change. By working together, the community can overcome systemic barriers and continue to make significant strides in beauty and wellness.

Notable Quote:

“We have to keep going. We have to stay in community.” – Kendra Bracken Ferguson [60:11]

Key Takeaways and Strategies Moving Forward

1. Stay Resilient and Focused: Embrace the legacy of past leaders by maintaining resilience and staying focused on long-term goals despite legislative and corporate setbacks.

2. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Be intentional with financial support by purchasing from black-owned brands and promoting their unique value propositions.

3. Prioritize Self-Care: Implement regular self-care practices to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. This includes mindfulness activities and practical skincare routines.

4. Foster Community and Collaboration: Strengthen community bonds through collaboration, strategic planning, and mutual support to navigate systemic challenges effectively.

5. Adapt and Innovate: Reevaluate and adapt business strategies to sustain and grow black-owned ventures in a changing corporate landscape.

6. Advocate for DEI Continuously: Continue to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion by redefining DEI efforts under different frameworks if necessary, ensuring that the spirit of inclusion remains intact.

Conclusion

Brooke DeVard’s episode on DEI provides a profound exploration of the current challenges and offers actionable insights for individuals and businesses within the beauty industry. Through heartfelt conversations with Jerry Devard, Sur John, and Kendra Bracken Ferguson, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining DEI efforts, supporting black entrepreneurs, and prioritizing self-care amidst adversity. This episode serves as both a call to action and a source of inspiration for those committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable beauty community.

Remember: Supporting diversity and inclusion is not just a trend but a fundamental shift towards a more equitable society. Engage, support, and uplift each other to ensure that progress continues despite the challenges ahead.