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Skin Anarchy
Authenticity, Motherhood and A First Look at Yummy Tummy with Tika Sumpter
00:45:19
Mindset Monday
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Transcript69 lines
- [00:03]
A
Hey, guys. Welcome back to Slim Anarchy. We have such an amazing guest with us today. I am such a fan of hers, and a lot of you might recognize her from her wonderful roles in some very, very blockbuster films, and just as you know, in general, as an actor, a producer, and also a podcast creator, and now a newfound entrepreneur in the beauty space and the wellness space. So without further ado, please welcome Tika Sumpter. Welcome, Tika. I'm so honored to host you.
- [00:32]
B
Oh, my gosh, I'm so happy to be here. Thank you for hosting me.
- [00:35]
A
Yeah, no, I'm really excited to have the chance to talk to you and. And learn about the brand. I'm so excited you have a brand that you're launching, and, you know, it looks so fantastic, but I want to start with, really your career. You know, like, you've worn so many creative hats, right, over the years, and. And that's so fascinating to me because that's very hard to do, you know, being able to do that. So looking back, I mean, what were some of the moments and experiences that, you know, really defined your creative insight and perspective as obviously, like a storyteller, but just somebody who is in this creative space all the time.
- [01:12]
B
Oh, man. It's so crazy, because in the beginning of my career, you know, I thought I only had. I only could be one thing, right? Like, I'm an actor. You know, I remember, you know, hearing, you know, actors don't do commercials. There's no, you know, real actors don't do this. And it was so. It was almost like putting people in a box, right? Because nobody's just one thing, you know? Well, at least I'm not. I'm a Gemini, and I'm all over the place, so. And so all of my creative forces of just growing up around, you know, people with just, you know, my mom could sing, my sister could act. My. My. My brother, you know, was. He's. He. He would do coding. Like, there's so many amazing forces that were always around me grow, and I'm like, of course, you know, you pull from every which way. So for me, my. My. I don't only go as far creatively Create creatively as a actress, but also as a creator. I think I'm more of a creator in general. Whether it's writing books or, you know, creating Yummy Tummy or you see me on the screen acting. I think I've just. I've just always been that person who was never just interested in only doing one thing.
- [02:33]
A
Yeah, no, I think that's like, always. I mean, that's the f. Fascinating part I think about, you know, when I look into your career, because I think it's very difficult to bring creativity out in so many different ways. You know what I mean? And I think, like, a lot of times, people don't really kind of pause to think about how much that. How much that takes out of somebody to be able to do that, you know? So that's. That's really huge. I mean, it's huge. It's a lot of work. Yeah, it's a lot of work. I'm sure. No, I'm sure. And I mean, you know, I ask you that because the over. You know, I've reviewed so many brands, right. And, like, it's always the founders that can do. It's not even multitasking. It's exactly what we're talking about here, where it's like, the creativity just, like, pours out of you in all these ways.
- [03:19]
B
Yes.
- [03:19]
A
And, you know, and those are the people who end up creating brands that you're like, oh, my God, I didn't even know I needed this. And I do, you know, like, that kind of thing. So, yeah, it's very.
- [03:29]
B
I'm the girl who stays up at. Who that. Up at night who's like, oh, my gosh, my brain is on, and I have to write it down. And so, yeah, I'm that girl as well.
- [03:38]
A
Yeah, no, I can. I can definitely imagine. Now, I want to talk about. Because you've played in so many wonderful roles, right, in your. In your acting careers, and it's really spanned different genres, different audiences, and I, you know, I'm a huge believer in really trying to understand, like, how people perceive beauty. I think it's different for everybody, and I'd love to learn, you know, what do you think really influenced, you know, especially from the acting career side? Like, what do you think really influenced your view of what true beauty means and, like, what true confidence means, you know, when it comes to, like, the entertainment industry especially, you know, so my.
- [04:18]
B
True intro to beauty was within my own household. Like, my mom is still, like, she can go in a thrift store. And let me tell you something. You would think she was in Gucci, because the way she puts out outfits together, you're like, wait, what did you find? What? And my sisters were always ahead of the curve with, like, just their looks and trends. And so I was always looking to them, like, whoa, you guys are, first of all, not only just cool, but you're also beautiful. Like, they were trendsetters. Within our own community, right? And so that was beauty to me. And so when I came into the industry and I saw who were the ingenues or who were picked for whatever parts that were the leading parts, it was like, it never bothered me. It just made me feel like, oh, I'm that too.
- [05:14]
A
Yeah.
- [05:16]
B
It was never a sense of they shouldn't have it. It was, oh, yeah, no, I'm additive, too. I'm also. I also can be that. So my. And there's room for it. And so my intro to beauty was something that I saw within my own household and that I held sacred from the beginning. And then when I saw what, you know, the world of entertainment saw as, oh, this is beautiful. These are the leads. These are. These are who we, you know, think are beautiful, I was like, oh, okay. And so when they also chose me for certain roles, I was like, yeah, because that, too, is also beautiful. Right? And so the entertainment industry never dictated to me what was beautiful from. I already knew what was beautiful and what was additive. And then I was like, okay, great, so we can all be beautiful together. So what? For me, it wasn't. It wasn't one thing like, oh, I saw her on tv and I was like, that's gorgeous. Because Claire Huxtable to me with, like, her hair, her skin, everything. I was like, oh, my God, you know, that could be my second mom.
- [06:20]
A
Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. Actually. I'm glad you said that, because I think a lot of times, I mean, I see this a lot with, you know, being a millennial myself. And then now looking at Gen Z, it's become so easy to look towards or look outwards, right towards other people, and then internalize that, you know, and then be like, okay, now your perception of beauty gets twisted, you know, and you don't know where you are anymore, and you're where your grounding energy is anymore. So that's why I asked you that, because it's like, you know, where, like, I mean, I just want. Maybe you could offer some insight into that component of it, because I would love for people to understand, like, you know, why this is important, where it's like, you do have to stay grounded in who you are when you look at beauty.
- [07:07]
B
So here. Okay, yes. So, oh, gosh, I wish people knew the beauty. And in entertainment, when you see the person, right, and you think, wow, they are perfection. A lot of work goes into perfection, right? With that, it's not just waking up and being like, oh, amazing today, right? It's sometimes it's what they eat, it's what they, you know, the things that they can afford might be more than what you can afford. Some of the things, you know, the beauty products that they use to enhance their. Their beauty is different from you. Sometimes the filters, right. Like, it's all. It's a bunch things. And I always say, you know, social media really is the highlight reel a lot of the times, because you're seeing the end result and you're not seeing the process, really. You know, sometimes you get to see some people show. Like, sometimes I'll be like, I just woke up and I look a hot mess, whatever. But, like, some of the products that I use, you know, might be something that you don't have access to. So I think when we hold ourselves to these standards of what beauty actually is, it's not really the standard either, because there's so much that goes into making that person what they are, what you think they are. Right. They can be beautiful. But all the things that contribute to that beauty, you might not be seeing everything. So I hope and I pray that people are. They. They. They take a second take to say, wait a second now. Let me ground myself in reality. Because what happens in entertainment isn't always reality.
- [08:50]
A
Right? Right, exactly. And that's. So that's. That's the powerful part about it, is that. That we believe whatever we're seeing on screen is reality. You know, that's what it is. And you know what's really interesting to me, and I'd love for you to speak on this, because I feel like any woman of color has this immense burden put on her, especially when you're in the limelight, right. When you're on the screen and you're. You're in front of the audiences and, and people look at, you know, you as a person, and, you know, they think, okay, well, she needs to represent beauty, you know, for everybody and put this standard out there. I mean, what are your thoughts around that? That. And that expectation, I guess, that's placed, you know, it's like this unsaid expectation kind of thing, you know?
- [09:38]
B
Yeah, I think there's a lot of expectations. There's an expectation to always look as young as you were when you started. You know, there's always. There's an expectation that your skin's always going to be perfect or that everything is going to sit just right. So that, you know, and what I'm. I'm grateful for about nowadays is people are allowing other people to not be that. Like, they're. They're saying, let Your hair down, you know, and people are trying to be more honest about where they are. But yeah, I think, I think for me, for me, honestly, I have come to a place in my life and I don't know if it comes with age, but I just want to be healthy. And if I am healthy, not only am I going to shine from my insides, but my outsides are just going to glow no matter what, right? Like, if I'm taking care of myself, I have, I have set aside the burden of this industry of feeling like I'm going to ever keep up. Because listen, at a certain age, it's just like, hey, that you're, you're no longer that thing that you were, right? But you become something else. It's almost like the caterpillar who turns into the butterfly. Like you are becoming constantly other things, right, that are also beautiful and valuable. And so for me, I don't allow myself to have that burden of, oh my God, I gotta, I gotta show what beauty is for a group of people. I just gotta show it. I gotta be. I really gotta be me. And I tell my daughter, be the best you that you could be, because I can't, I can't put. When you put that backpack on of bricks, it will literally drown you. And so I have spoken to myself in a way of, I can't keep up. I'm not going to keep up with anybody. All I can do is keep up with me, right?
- [11:31]
A
I love that. I love that. That's so, that's so important and so powerful because I think a lot of times the burden does fall, you know what I mean, on like a specific group of people. And I' seen this happen so many times and I'm. For me, I've always felt it to be unfair, you know, because it's like you can't. It's like what you said, like, you have to be able to just say, this is who I am, you know? And so if you look at me and you find yourself in me, right? And you see a reflection that's beautiful and that's wonderful. But then you, at the same time, you can't expect that person to then mold so that you feel comfortable, you know what I mean? That kind of thing. So.
- [12:14]
B
Exactly. And I am grateful for, I mean, the amount of people who have said, oh my gosh, I've seen you in this and that, and you made me like myself even more or think that I'm beautiful. And I'm like, I am so grateful that I can be that beacon for a Lot of people, because that's all so important. But I also think people see the honesty of who I am, and that too is also important so that they can be honest with themselves. Right. And just be free to be themselves. And so, yeah, I love being a beacon, but I also love being just exactly who I am and where I'm supposed to be.
- [12:51]
A
Yeah, I hear you. I really hear you there. I love that. No, I want to talk about motherhood. You brought up your daughter and, you know, clearly that's really influenced your work, right? The journey of motherhood. And, you know, I would love for you to speak on this, you know, in terms of how. How did becoming a mom really change your relationship with your self image, your self care routine, all of those kind of things.
- [13:13]
B
Yeah, I mean, I always say there's a before Ella and then there's an after Ella. Right. And before Ella, I was just my, you know, I. All I had to think about was myself. Right. And feeding myself and not thinking about anybody but me. And then there's an after ella where it connected. So when I. When I. When I got pregnant, you know, it was. It was a surprise. And also it was a beautiful surprise, but I didn't realize I was going about it as if. Oh, okay. Because, you know, everybody was talking about caring was really hard. And for me, the carrying part was amazing. It was the having her, which was I had preeclampsia, and that was hard. Yeah. So that was really tough for me. And then afterward, you know, I didn't realize. It was almost like a punch in the face, how exhausted you become. And I literally felt like, who the heck am I? And it felt like Groundhog's day. And it felt like if I don't get back to work soon, I am going to jump out of the window. That's literally what I felt like. And. And I didn't realize that I didn't give myself time to. At that moment, at that time, at that time when I had my child, I didn't realize, like, how much grace mothers don't give themselves, especially first time moms. We just don't. We think we're supposed to jump right back into where we were. And you're just. You literally, your body transitions to a different person. Whether it's stuff popping up on your skin, whether it's the texture of your skin, whether it's your exhaustion, whether it's your body literally changed, like weight and it's harder to get off, whether it's your breasts, whether it's your nipples cracking Whether it's the baby, just like always needing you all the time, which. Amen, thank you. That they do. But you don't realize the. How much kind of like, takes you under and you don't know who you are. And I say to people who are having babies or just starting to have babies, please give yourself at least a year or two to get to just acclimate. Just acclimate. Because I wish I would have known that. That I could have at least prepared my mind, but it was more like a holy crap. And then it just took time to get back to not who I was, but some essence of, oh, oh, tika, yo. You know what I mean? Like, love my baby. Love my baby. Would do anything, would walk through fire for my child, and also I would walk through fire for myself. And I had to remember I'm still me. I'm still me. Plus, plus one, right?
- [16:04]
A
So.
- [16:04]
B
And I think moms, we. We just naturally, a lot of the time, a lot of us pour ourselves into our kids, and until we realize, wait a second. We're. We. We left ourselves behind, right? And so, yeah, I just think I wish mothers would give themselves more grace to grow into the newer, even better humans that they. They become.
- [16:29]
A
Yeah. No, I really. I'm so glad you you said this, because I feel like I've definitely had some very close girlfriends of mine. I'm not a. I'm not a mom and, you know, myself, but I've had some very close friends that literally, like, after they had their child, like, the very early phases, right? Like, it was like the first few months after even, like that year time frame that you're talking, like, you watch this. This human being that you've known for so long, you know, completely, not only change, but, like, everything about them changes, you know, like, obviously priority shift and like, you know, you're what. You're focused on shifts. But then it's like they forget that they're even alive, you know, and that there's a them, you know, it's not just the baby. Like, it's like they take on the personality of whatever that child needs. Needs, you know? And then, like, as a person looking in, as a friend, you're just like, God, I wish you would go take a spa day. You know, like, just take a bath.
- [17:28]
B
Yeah, yeah, go take a bath. Have something for yourself. Right?
- [17:35]
A
Yeah.
- [17:36]
B
And it's so true. We leave ourselves behind so much. And that's why, for me, even with my company, Fort Sumter, you know, obviously it's creative and a product driven company that I founded to, to bring the peace, to bring the joy and to bring real support to women and especially moms through the stories and the things that actually really do work. Like that is my core. That is, that, that is at our core, you know, and we want women to feel seen whether you have a baby or not. Right. But. And we want, we want the products that truly care for you and not just to market to you.
- [18:16]
A
Absolutely. I love that. I love that. I think that's what this industry needs more of, to be honest with you. You know, I'll keep it real with, with everybody listening and you know, any brands out there, it's like, you know, stop making products people don't need. Like, please stop. You know, like our, our shelves are cluttered. You know what I mean? As is. And it's like, I feel like that's where I really love the kind of brand that you're kind of, you know, you're bringing out and you're standing behind because with Yummy Tummy, it's like there's a real need, need, you know, there needs to be something that speaks to moms, that speaks to women in general, you know, and says, listen, like, here's a product or a set of products that you can just grab and then this is going to work for you for these like the things that they're going through without like realizing they're going through it, you know, like it's. Yeah, because like you said, like, no one's pausing. Like in that period, in that time frame of motherhood, you don't pause enough and you don't think about like, what, what can I do for myself? You know, like, how can I help myself during all this? So let's talk about that. Let's talk about. Yumm. Tommy, what made you really, like, where was that moment when you realized, like, I'm going to launch a motherhood based brand?
- [19:23]
B
Yeah. So for me, one, when I became a mom and I just saw not only just the need to speak to women in general for stories, but also this is something that I wish I had, you know, during, during my time I always say in the wilderness and you know, I wanted to take decision making off the minds of mom. Like I wanted to take decision making off the minds of mom in terms of, okay, what can I use not only for me but for my baby, where I don't have to have a bunch of products and set for you and a set for me. I can grab this and I can use it for me and I can use it for you. Right? And that is strong enough for mama and. But gentle enough for baby. And so that's what I created. And it's, you know, it's a nurture oil. Like there's a nurture oil, which, it's for, you know, the stretching skin, the scars, the dry patches. I wanted to make sure the ingredients were plant based. And that has grapeseed oil and vitamin E and rosehip oil and avocado oil, but also something that you can use for your child. And it can also be a bonding moment, not only just for, you know, if you need a moment for yourself, but also, hey, let me grab this for my kid. Let me throw it in my diaper bag. And then the. Right. And so, and then the cream is for dryness and tightness and post pregnancy and skin recovery, but also a deep moisturizer for, you know, for, for the kid too. Right. It's. You can use it on the legs of the baby, the dry patches, the belly, the breasts. And it has things like squalene in it, which mimics skin's natural oils for barrier, protect, for, for lasting hydration. And again, rapeseed oil, rosehip oil. But then the nurture balm. Right. It soothes and protects your nipples, but also could be used. Hey, I need something for my lips right now because we dry or my skin, my skin has a rough, rough patch right here. Right. It's for cracking or soreness of dryness. Right. And it has, you know, lanolin and castor seed oil and shea butter and sunflower seed and beeswax. Something easy you can throw in. I think for me, I wanted multi use products for mom and baby and beyond. And if you want to continue to use it afterwards for postpartum, whatever that looks like, keep using it because it works. I use it every day. My daughter used the oil, she had sunburn recently and she was like, mom. And I was like, go grab the oil. And she was like, this stuff actually works. I was like, yeah, I know, yeah, yeah. So I just wanted it to be easier. That's it. Easier for mom and feel her to feel safe to put it on her skin and her baby's skin.
- [22:03]
A
I love that. And I think, you know, for me, like, this conversation is just so. It runs so deep, I think, because, you know, and we don't really hear much about it, you know, in social media or like, you know, out there in terms of like what moms go through with the whole idea of like, you know, when you start getting stretch marks. Right. Like, no one really talks about this stuff in a way that's, like, not shameful. You know what I mean? Like, oh, my gosh, I feel like we've put this veil of shame on stretch marks. And I'm like, what are you doing? You know, talking about. And so, like, I want to talk about that a little bit with you is this idea of, like, you know, embracing the stretch marks, embracing, like, what's going on, and also, like, understanding, you know, that these are natural changes. Like, what are your thoughts on all of that?
- [22:52]
B
Skin is like, your biggest barrier protection for your body. It's like, it's like, it's amazing what it does for you, right? And the fact that it stretches and you held, you know, whether you held a baby or not, whatever you've gone through, it has lasted you, it has covered you, it has protected you. And I would hope that this is almost a, A quick ritual for you to even say thank you. Thank you, skin. Like, I've been waking up every morning just saying thank you, body for working. Right. And I think so many times we dismiss the very thing that protects us every day. Right. And that has kept us strong every day. And so I, I, I think stretch marks and scars and moments of patches, these are like battle scar. These are bad. Your body has, has worked for you, right. And in the way that it can. And I just hope that these, these products will contribute to helping you heal and helping you take yourself in and nurture you and your baby or just you and, and realize, like, hey, I, I have something in my life that is there not to fight me, but to embrace me and to love me so that I can go out in the world and be fully me. Right?
- [24:21]
A
Yeah. You know what's crazy is I've seen, like, like certain women, you know, when they're always, like, applying some sort of moisturizer or something, right. To, like, aid with, like, while they're pregnant, like, aid with development. I love seeing that because I'm like, yes, you're doing something that's going to help you. You know what I mean?
- [24:38]
B
In the. Yes.
- [24:39]
A
And that's a beautiful thing. I feel like we just as society, for some reason, we don't really, like, you know what I mean? Like, talk about this. Like, even when you go see an OB or like, you know, just go get routine care, I feel like stuff like this should be discussed dust, you know, that you should talk about. Like, okay, you know, you're gonna, these are the things that are gonna happen to your body.
- [24:59]
B
Yes.
- [24:59]
A
You know?
- [25:00]
B
Yes.
- [25:00]
A
And these are the ingredients that Help. And this is the kind of stuff you should look for. I mean, those conversations, even behind closed doors are not being had. And so I think like, you know, when I see a brand like yours, I'm just like, this is like a big, like taking a megaphone almost, you know, and saying like, listen, this is needed. We need this. You know, and so I love it. Yeah.
- [25:22]
B
Yeah, I think, I think you're right about that. Where we don't talk about sometimes textures change sometimes, you know, even on my skin. You know, I did a video of like the change of, you know, I was getting like these marks under my chin and I honestly, because I don't, I'm not, I don't believe in putting product out that I don't use or that I don't. It doesn't really do anything. And so I did this kind of video throughout the month of, you know, I would get these like blemishes on the bottom of my chin because, you know, things change. And I did a video and they literally dissipated within months of me consistently using this oil that I always use. And so because I was like, let me just be, let me, let me be consistent on this just to see, you know, it working. And it did. And, and again, like I. It's important for moms to feel safe. So I made sure that there's no parabens and paraffins and phthalates or harsh chemicals in it so that, you know, they can feel not only good about themselves but anybody else that in their family to use it.
- [26:33]
A
I love that. And you know, I want to talk a little bit about building the brand because I feel like right now especially, and I see this, I mean, I literally see it every day where like there are new, new brands popping up, whether it's, yes, your wellness every day. And I mean, don't even get me started on like longevity and that whole space because yeah, that's wild right now. So. But like, I mean it's, it's a, everyday phenomena, you know. And so like that perspective, like what was I guess the most challenging or like the most eye opening part of launching a beauty brand, right? And launching something like this, like what was, what was something that stood out to you?
- [27:14]
B
Girl, I will never pick up a product again and not say, I can't believe it got here, girl. Launching a brand, first of all, launching a brand and then launching a product is insane. The amount of back end from getting insurance for the product, from packaging, from, first of all, making sure the product works right, Making sure that the Ingredients are amazing, but then is, you know, not only like your Shopify, but like, how are people going to know about your product? And then the marketing and then the, you know, just all the bits of what. What exactly is in your product for fda, like, does it. You know what I mean? Like, all. There's just literally so much that goes into the product. Even getting on the E Comm shelves, right? Like that space and building your website and then like, answer. It's just question after question after question after question needing to be answered and answered. And you're like, oh, my goodness, I never knew the bits that went into. Not only create, like creating the product, right? Then, you know, testing the product and then what is it gonna look like? How are you gonna ship the product? Who's gonna ship the product? Who's gonna do. Like, there are so many aspects into getting a product, even pressing buy on Amazon in order to even press that. Like, what does that page look like?
- [28:48]
A
What.
- [28:48]
B
Where is it coming from? Is it at the Amazon, like, place or is it from a 3 PL? Like, I never knew the amount of work that goes into a simple product. I will. That's why I won't ever bash people who actually get it done, because I didn't realize the amount of work and labor it takes to. And the amount of people. Nobody can do this by themselves. Not one person. No one. So when people, you know, even when people are like, they built this company, it was literally they. Because it was not one person, right?
- [29:25]
A
Like, what do you mean you built this company?
- [29:30]
B
Absolutely not, ma'. Am. Absolutely not. And just the amount of. I mean, even just like the, the. The branding of it, right? The. The. The. The logo. The what? Like, all of the names. You're just like, oh, my gosh. You know, and so, yeah, it's a lot of work. It's a lot of work. But it's. For me, it's. It's. I don't know if this is my producing hat, because that's kind of what it feels like, like always putting out fires or. Okay, here, here's. Here's the answer to this. You know, it's really gathering every part of the body to bring together one. One product. You know, it's. It's all the pieces bringing them together to make sure it's ready for a launch August 25th. So, yeah, it's a lot of work, but it's. For me, it's been a lot of fun.
- [30:21]
A
It's like another child, basically.
- [30:23]
B
Yeah. Yes, I am birthing another child.
- [30:28]
A
No, Well, I Mean, thank you for being so honest about it, because I think that's where, you know, we do. We don't hear that honesty about being an entrepreneur and what it takes. And like, you know, it's such a funny time we're living in because every day there's a new brand. And I see this on Tick Tock especially a lot. You know, I'm on there all the time for market research. You know, I'm not really much of a social media person, but I. I'm always scrolling, you know, and I'm like, oh, God. Like, you know, you know, these young women and they're like, my dream is to have a brand. And I'm like, you go, girl. But you need to know, like, this is. That's a big.
- [31:03]
B
Yeah.
- [31:05]
A
Hell of a lot, you know, to get there.
- [31:07]
B
So, yeah, like, putting together the. The colors and stuff are nice, but there's way more to. I mean, and you got to make sure the numbers work. And, you know, it's just. It's a lot. There are a lot of percentages and all. I mean, it's. It's definitely not something you want to just lightly think about. I want everybody to follow their dream, but it is a lot that goes into actually making. And then you got to sell the product, right? Like, I didn't have to actually sell, right? Because you don't. You put money into it and you put your resources into it, so now you got to sell it. So it's, you know, while it's fun and nice to say I built a brand or, you know, I want to do products, you just want to make sure that you're in it for the right reason. And I say the same thing when people want to be actors or whatever they want to become, because I'm like, fame. You can get fame probably faster than you can get an acting job. So just make sure you know which one you actually want.
- [32:09]
A
Yeah, yeah, that's. I think that's very, very critical, what you just said because. And, you know, this actually is a big question I have for you. And, you know, I am very curious about this because I have. I think I have a different perspective than a lot of people on this. And this is the idea of celebrity brands. I think there's a lot of individuals and consumers out there that think celebrities don't pour as much into their brand as somebody xyz, Right. Living in some random part of the world would. And I don't agree with that because of exactly what you just shared with me, right? Where it's like, you're involved in every part of the process. Like, it's literally like a baby. You're building this thing out. So what is your. Like, I mean, I want you to speak about that component in terms of maybe, was there extra pressure on you or what? You know, what was that whole process like for you, knowing, like, you're coming from this space of, like, you're in the limelight. And then when you come out with a brand, people are going to obviously criticize it, right? They're going to criticize you because that's just what people love to do. So what is your. What are your thoughts on all of that? Like, celebrity brands and how they're perceived?
- [33:16]
B
Again, while I say it's fun, it's scary as heck, you know, like, it's really scary because, you know, you. I've been successful in, you know, certain spaces, and you're just like, I also want this to work because I also really believe in the product and who it's for and the person I've built this stuff for. Right? But, you know, you're going to be criticized no matter what, and all you can do, again, it goes back to the grounding of where I came from. I. I don't do it for the people who are going to criticize me. I do it for those who actually need the help and are looking for answers. And so I think it takes. I mean, I don't know. I mean, look, I'm sure some celebrities get in certain equity situations for just their name, right? And they're like, they have people behind them who are going to build it, whatever. But I think. I think a lot of celebrities who do do this, I mean, you. You have to talk about it, right? Like, if you don't believe in it, you're good. People are going to see that. And so I never want to take away this idea that a celebrity, just because they do have the resources or somebody comes to them with the resources to say, hey, you want to be part of this? Doesn't mean that they're not working hard, because most people in this industry who are trying to do this, it is it. They can make money faster in other ways. Right? Like, they just could. Like, this is not necessarily the quickest way to the bag. Right. It takes a lot of time, and it takes a lot of effort. And yeah, you see them out there with their friends or whatever, pushing it. But. But to get that product on the shelf or on E Commerce, that is not an easy feat for anybody. And I understand there are different levels to it. Because if you do have resources, it helps. But that doesn't mean the process is not the process. The process is still, you still have to go through all the things and then you got to go and talk about it. So I think, I don't necessarily agree that they are not hard workers. Look, I think some people do have, look, I'm going to attach my name to this and this is what it is, which is, hey, more power to you if that's, you just want to equity sake for them to use your name. But then I think, I think a lot of the people who are pushing, you know, the products that they believe in are working hard because again, I said I never knew how much work went into the back end of all of this.
- [35:59]
A
Right, right. No, I mean, I can imagine. And also like, I love what you said. It's like you really do have to believe in what you're building and I think that that comes through, you know, for, for me as a consumer, I have a lot of celebrity brands, you know, on my shelf and I love them. Like, I think they're beautiful brands and you know, I use them daily and they work for me. And I, I just don't think it's fair for consumers to look out and see somebody who might have this, you know, their career is part of their careers being in the limelight and you might know about them, you know, because they're an actor or something and then you judge them, them. Because that's not fair in my opinion. No, I just don't think that we should have that outlook as consumers. I think, you know, for me, especially as a scientist, I look always try to look at things like is this going to work or not? You know what I mean?
- [36:47]
B
That kind of thing. So, and that's, that's, I think that's the end all for me. Does it work? Does it work? Right? Like if it works, fantastic. I have nothing to say to you. Just give me more, you know what I mean? And that's for me, where I land. I think it's, it's. I know it works and I am confident in the product and you just got to try it and be consistently using it and I feel very confident that you will be happy. So that's, that's, does it work? That's it.
- [37:19]
A
Absolutely. No. Absolutely. I love that. I love that. And you know, I want to actually, you know, ask you about this because I think this is, I heard this perspective, you know, from somebody. I really, you know, I really respect her and her content and she made a very, very powerful statement. And she was talking about, especially like black founded, about black founded brands, you know. And the, the idea was brought up that, you know, as somebody who is creating a brand as, you know, as a black beauty founder or founder in general, building something for yourself is more important than listening to the masses. You know, that's what she was saying. And so that really for me hit home because I was like, I mean I, my whole life I've been immersed with somehow the black community, you know what I mean? They've always embraced me. When I came to America, the first friends I had were young black women, you know what I mean? They embraced me. And so I'm very like, like my heart is tied up in that culture, you know. And so when I hear somebody speak about it in that way, I, I have my own curiosities and I would want to learn more. So like, what are your thoughts on that in terms of being a black founder? Creating something for yourself from a place of meaning and true value. And like what does that mean for you and what is your messaging around that?
- [38:39]
B
I think my messaging is I just wanted to build something that I wish I had when I was pregnant or in my pre pregnancy stage or you know, in my postpartum from. And I want to build something that women in general can feel not only seen, but something that actually works. So whether you are black, white, Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, whatever, whatever you look like, you are welcome in the circle of something that I poured my heart into and my resources into, right? And I think, you know, I, I, I'm a person who embraces who, whoever wants, whoever wants to come and try, come try. Because I feel like the tribe of women in general, like I think we are sometimes so at each other's throats of like, you know, whatever we're going through. I think for me I want to be the peacemaker. Blessed are the peacemakers, right? Like, and I'm like, just let's come in here. If this is something that works for you, fantastic. If you don't like it, fantastic. You know, but as a founder and as a black founder, I'm, I'm literally just like every other founder who wants to not only create product, but I want it to be successful, right? And I want it to work and I want to help people heal their bodies. And so that's how I see it. I don't see it. And I built something that I wish I had, right? And so hopefully that will speak to women who are either in that spot or Know others who are in that spot or even if you don't have a kid, like, I'm not pregnant anymore, but I still use it, right? And my whole family uses it. My husband uses the nipple nurture bomb for his lips. So, you know, I, as a founder, I just see myself as a person who wants to thrive and who wants their product to reach far beyond myself, even when I'm not here.
- [40:52]
A
I love that. I really, I can't tell you how much I love that because I feel like people put themselves in boxes and we put people in boxes, you know what I mean? Like every seat, every time you see a black owned brand, we're like shouting from the rooftops, make sure you support it. Because the black owned brand, I'm here for that. I'm here for supporting minority, you know, like, groups and stuff like that. I am a minority group, you know, but at the same time, like, I hate that we take away from like the true like, like creativity of something by doing that, you know, it's like instead of like just saying this is a great freaking brand, you know, like, this is something that really works and it's amazing. And it's like, you know, I, I think you should try it. You know what I mean? No matter who you are, we keep putting it in a box and then. Yeah, you know what I mean? Like, it makes this per, like perception in society of like, well, only this kind of people can use this stuff, you know?
- [41:47]
B
Yeah. And yeah, no, I, I, I totally understand what you're saying and I think, I think if it's great, you know, I think, and what I have a lot of, you know, founders, you know, black owned founders stuff. But I just, if I, if I think it's great, I'm gonna say go buy this. Right? Like, and I have posted things like that, like, please go, go support this because it's amazing and it's not because of this. And just like, you know, for what the thing is, like what every other founder doesn't have to put that in front of their, their product. Right. And I'm, and I, and I understand it's complicated and all that, but I feel like a lot of these products work from black founders. Yeah, right. They're amazing, but they don't, you know, you, I'm just gonna say, oh my goodness, make sure you go and get this because it works and it's amazing. So, yeah, I mean, I hope I'm not put in a box and I hope people give it a try because if you have skin, then you're part of my program, you know, but, yeah.
- [42:58]
A
I'll be the first to say it. I mean, you're. I literally use the. The Nurture cream everywhere. I've been using it for two days straight. I feel like I just keep applying it everywhere. Like, it's. It's a really great product. I love it. You know, I think it's just genuinely. You've created a beautiful line. It's so freaking awesome. And it. It feels like you're really genuinely nurturing, for lack of a better word. You know, not to be cheesy, but you feel nurtured and feels nurtured when you use it. It's. It's a beautiful, beautiful line. I am a huge fan, and I can't wait to see what you do next. I mean, what can you share with us? Anything that's coming up next for the brand, like, any new releases or anything like that.
- [43:37]
B
Girl, I am just trying to. I'm launching August 25th, so my head is down and. And, you know, getting everything prepared and ready to go and just really, really excited that I'm gonna have. You know, I'm gonna not only be an actor and a producer, but a founder of a company. And I think that's a huge. I've never pat myself on the back ever, but I will pat myself on the back for this one, for getting this actually done and figuring it out and having an amazing team surrounding me to help get this to the world. So I'm super, super excited about it.
- [44:14]
A
I love that. Well, congratulations. And you've done such a fantastic job. Tika. This is such a beautiful line. And for everybody listening, you guys gotta. You gotta check it out. It's a beautiful, beautiful line. Like the cream I was talking about. Like, you could. Anybody can use this, by the way. It's amazing.
- [44:31]
B
Anybody? Anybody? Anybody?
- [44:34]
A
So super nice, like, for like, anything, like, even, like, your legs. And you can put it anywhere, like, literally right out the shower, you know, so.
- [44:42]
B
Anywhere.
- [44:43]
A
Yeah, I love it. I love it so much. I love what you're doing, and I just. I am here to support you, and I just feel like we need to see more really great products come out in the space. Like, that's. What can I say, you know what I mean?
- [44:55]
B
Like, we thank you.
- [44:56]
A
This kind of stuff. So. Yeah, no, thank you. This was. Yeah, always. This was such a fun interview. Thank you so much. And for everyone listening, you guys, I will be linking everything about Yummy Tummy you if in the notes for this episode, so please scroll down, go check it out and let us know what your thoughts are on the products, on the conversation. I'd love to hear from you. Thank you so much.
- [45:17]
B
Thank you. Thank you so much.
- [45:19]
A
Hey guys. So I hope you love that episode. Please make sure to hit subscribe if you're tuning in to us on any podcast platform. We are available on so many different platforms, so wherever it is that you're tuning in, just go hit subscribe. You'll be immediately notified when when we publish new episodes. This way you're able to tune in to amazing insights from experts, brand founders, industry leaders, authors, all the wonderful people that we host. And that's very important for me because I love to hear from you guys and really understand what you love and what you want to hear more of. Also, make sure to give us a follow on all of our social media outlets. We're available on Instagram, TikTok X, you name it, we're there. We also have a blog on Medium, so if you're a reader and you love Medium blogs, check us out on Medium. We publish some really great articles on there that do deeper dives than just what's available on the podcast, and it's really a great place for all of you science geeks out there that want to learn a little bit more. We go above and beyond with our research and making sure we're bringing you information that you usually probably won't hear about in other outlets. So check us out, leave us a comment, leave us a review, and we'll be back next time with another episode. Thank you.