DBGA Podcast

In this episode of the DBGA Podcast, Rachel Akherraz interviews Dujon Smith, the visionary founder and CEO of MyBlockSkin. Discover Dujon's inspiring journey launching a groundbreaking sun care brand that prioritizes inclusivity for all skin tones. With a rich background in international business, finance, and technology, Dujon shares his insights on industry trends, the pivotal role of data a...

In this episode, Rachel Akherraz interviews Jimmy Gould, the founder of SoapStandle, an innovative company based in Memphis, Tennessee. Jimmy shares the story behind SoapStandle, a patented device that helps bar soap dry completely, preventing the gooey mess often associated with traditional soap bars. He discusses the environmental benefits of using bar soap over liquid soap, the challenges he fa...

In this episode of the DBGA podcast, Rachel Akherraz interviews Timothy Lawrence, CTO and co-founder of Oralucent. Timothy shares his journey from a physicist to a tech entrepreneur in the beauty industry. At Oralucent, he focuses on the development innovative products like toothbrushes that employ light therapy for dental care. Timothy discusses the impact of AI, IoT, and genomics on beauty produ...

In this episode, our host Rachel Akherraz interviews Reham Essa, Founder and CEO at Radixir, a skincare brand. With her unique background as a pharmacist turned cosmetic chemist, Reham shares her inspiring journey of transforming personal challenges into a thriving business focused on creating skincare solutions for adults with acne-prone skin. Reham also discusses the latest trends sweeping throu...

In this episode, Rachel Akherraz hosts an interview with Ceata E. Lash, the innovative founder and CEO of PuffCuff. Ceata recounts her journey from graphic design to revolutionizing hair care with the creation of PuffCuff, a product designed to manage thick, textured hair without discomfort. The conversation dives into the broader implications of her invention, emphasizing inclusivity and the reco...

In this episode, Rachel Akherraz hosts an interview with Barbara Roll, a prominent figure in the beauty and e-commerce industry. Barbara discusses her journey in the field, touching on her experiences prior to joining BOOM! Beauty and oVertone Color. The conversation explores various topics including Barbara's passion for the dynamic beauty industry, current market trends, and the unique value...

In this episode of the DBGA podcast, host Rachel Akherraz interviews Yen Maine, CEO of Adirondack Fragrance Farm. Yen shares her transition from a high-speed career at Citibank to entrepreneurship and discusses her passion for the healing power of nature, which is central to her beauty industry venture. Adirondack Fragrance Farm, located in the Adirondack region, specializes in natural fragrances...

In this episode, our host Rachel Akherraz interviews Sharareh Siadat, Founder and CEO at TooD Beauty, a clean makeup brand. Sharareh's discusses her personal and professional narrative, which centers around challenging and redefining beauty norms as a first-generation Iranian-American. From her childhood struggles with acceptance in a small Massachusetts town to revolutionizing the beauty indu...

In this episode of the DBGA podcast, host Rachel Akherraz interviews Larry Gaynor, the founder and CEO of TNG Worldwide. Larry shares his journey from working in his family’s hardware stores to founding TNG Worldwide in 1985, which evolved from a retail beauty store to a manufacturer of beauty and personal care products. He emphasizes his company's focus on customer success, driven by a highly...

In this episode, our host Rachel Akherraz interviews Nyokabi Mickens, Owner and CEO at Loclicious, a natural haircare brand. Nyokabi discusses the origins of her venture, inspired by her own experiences with alopecia and the lack of suitable products to address such issues. She elaborates on her transition into the beauty industry, emphasizing her passion for creating products free from harmful ch...

In this episode, our host Rachel Akherraz interviews Jennifer Brodwick from Brixy, a sustainable beauty company. The interview explores Jennifer's diverse career background, from health food retail to software sales, before joining her husband at Brixy. The company emphasizes sustainable, plastic-free beauty products, like shampoo and conditioner bars. Jennifer shares insights into consumer tr...