Why do you believe research is important in product creation?
I had the best testing ground that one could have when it comes to creating products for men. In terms of beards, I had the barbershop. So, I was able to quickly create products and do tons of research. The natural hair movement was and still is a thing. I learned a tremendous amount from the women [who] were leading that. They introduced really good ingredients that solve issues like frizz, damage and dryness. So, utilizing research is super important to be really dialed in to the customer. Before you go out spending two, three years on something, you really need to validate if there’s even demand for your product.
What are you doing to share with other young entrepreneurs?
I feel super obligated to reach down and bring other folks up. I try to educate folks on my pitfalls and bumps, scrapes and bruises along the way. Just recently, I was on a Zoom call with students from Xavier University sharing my journey and answering questions. It was an entrepreneurship class. I’ve participated in founder and residency programs with Target with BIPOC [Black, Indigenous, people of color] founders. I’m always willing to get on a call with an entrepreneur that’s just starting out. So, I know what it feels like to start something and have a ton of questions.
