Too Smart For This

In celebration of Black Business Month, we collaborated with Lydia from the Boardroom Beauty podcast to spotlight two incredible beauty founders. Join us for a chat with Desiree Verdejo of Hyper Skin and Karen Young of Oui the People as they share the realities of managing a growing businesses that’s expanded into international retailers like Sephora, while balancing healthy personal lives, motherhood and self-care beyond beauty and skincare.

Listen to the first part of this conversation over on the Boardroom Beauty podcast:

https://youtu.be/IHNrsfSEI0U?si=eiD9oA48rX7Ge...

Let's sit and gossip for a sec. I have some updates to share regarding Wharton, my trip to Paris, and I've also been implementing some new productivity systems to help with my burnout.

Listen to my conversation with Temi: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0w5G0IXOF2MPq3VyNhxvue?si=3db3868e9fd94700

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I’m not super excited to admit that I feel burnt out, but here we are. In this episode, I’m sharing my real-time journey through burnout, from recognizing the signs to taking actionable steps to recover. 

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It can feel VERY unsettling when you've been gripping to a vision of yourself for so long, only to realize you no longer want that. In this episode, I’m exploring the concept that has helped me make some tough decisions—like knowing when it’s time to move on from dreams, jobs, people, situations, etc. Letting go can often feel shameful, uncertain, and scary, but I hope you leave this episode feeling empowered to transition toward a path that truly fulfills you.

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I’m answering all your questions regarding family resentment, jobs you don’t want to be in, personal finance, dating, and more!

4:47 - How do you not resent family for having opposite life choices?

11:04 - How to get the most out of a job you settled for?

13:59 - Can you share a hot take about being an entrepreneur or having a side hustle?

17:11 - What’s something you used to believe in that you’ve changed your mind on?

19:27 - Book recs for personal finance?

24:04...

As we wrap up the second quarter of the year I wanted to share all my biggest lessons, takeaways, and favorites from Q2. We’re talking clothing, food, body care, skin care, workouts, and other essentials that have me looking and feeling my best.

Clothing favorites

Food favorites

Body care

For glowy skin

Let’s talk about how to work with the natural ebb and flow of our energy as women. In this episode I share my experience working through days where motivation is hard to find and what I’ve learned about setting realistic priorities and understanding my minimum and maximum capacity. 

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This week, I'm chatting with my dear friend and fellow Wharton MBA student, Temi Butler. Temi walks us through her impressive career journey, from navigating the high-stakes world of finance at top institutions to landing on Forbes 30 Under 30, and ultimately pivoting from a stable job to embrace her creative passions.

From big corporate to being a DJ, Temi has been there and done that, and she offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to build a highly ambitious and fulfilling professional path.

She shares:

Summer is meant to be ENJOYED! In this episode, I'm sharing my plans for making the most out of the next three months by being super intentional in key areas of my life such as: health, career, finances and relationships and more.

SHOP OUR RARE BEAUTY COLLAB

Time stamps:

2:22 Plot girl shit

3:36 Confidence

4:14 Pinterest boards

4:54 Shopping for summer

5:59 Setting an intention

7:09 Setting goals

9:24 Having fun requires planning

11:41 Dating

13:42 Morning and evening...

In this episode, I'm celebrating a huge milestone in my business and want to share how I reached this place of feeling secure and at peace with following my dreams. I'll reflect on the setbacks I've faced over the years and share what I've learned about trusting your timing.

If you've been feeling defeated, rejected, or behind, this episode is for you.

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In this episode, I'm recapping my first year at Wharton, sharing everything I wish I'd known before diving into my MBA journey, as well as my honest opinion on academics, social life, and the lessons I've learned during this time.

I’m also answering your questions on time management, juggling relationships, how to prep for business school, and what's on my radar for year two.

Timestamps:

02:23 Academics

09:16 My study routine

12:00 My major

13:53 Clubs

16:34 Travel

22:00 Social life

...

In this episode, we’re getting real about the struggles I've been facing as an entrepreneur. And how despite being overqualified in many aspects I still don’t feel ready to do a lot of things in my business. We’re talking perfectionism, money, and how I’m planning to scale my business with the resources and insights I've gotten from being a Wharton MBA student.

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As we close off the first quarter of 2024, I’m recapping my biggest takeaways and must-have items in wellness, beauty, and fashion from the past three months.

Timestamps:

1:40 self-worth is the key to everything

6:40 difference between capacity and capability

8:49 not letting other people make you feel small

12:17 wellness faves

17:24 beauty faves

20:45 fashion faves

Products mentioned

Wellness:

Armra Colostrum https://amzn.to/3JbNkC1

Super gut prebiotic https://amzn.to/3vH...

We’re all busy but that shouldn’t be reason to leave your health at the bottom of your priorities. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing 8 health and wellness habits that have helped me feel my best and live a healthier life overall. From daily practices to supplements and workout routines. I hope these habits inspire and motivate you to establish a healthy routine that works for you.

Resources mentioned:

Pilates workouts:

Form app

Protein:

Oikos 000 protein yogurt

Chomps

Owy...

As spring brings fresh new energy, this episode dives into everything I'm doing to glow up for the season. I hope this episode inspires you to hit the refresh button in your life and step into this new season feeling your absolute best.

Resources mentioned:

Form pilates

Style archetypes: @asias.jpg

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A breakdown of my expenses and how I budget as a grad student and business owner. I also answer your questions regarding career, failure, breakups and ADHD. You asked, I ANSWERED!

5:24 Q1: How do you manage money as a grad student and business owner?

9:37 Q2: How to navigate failure and career pivots

12:25 Q3: What is bringing you joy right now?

14:06 Q4: Breakup tips?

17:17 Q5: How do you manage ADHD among all the boss girl sh*t you do?

Don’t forget to...

I’ve been putting off this topic for a while… but let’s unpack how I’ve been completely neglecting my mental and physical health through this crazy period of my life. This episode is about getting back on track. I'll share how I'm resetting my priorities, what I'm doing to climb out of this funk, and a daily habit that has been super helpful throughout this time.

Show Notes

1:20 Navigating the stress of recent events

2:35 How to deal with too much on your plate

6:39 Realizing when you’re engagin...

I'm so excited to sit and chat with you guys! Today I'm answering a bunch of questions regarding dating, health, current favorites, classes at Wharton, and everything in between. So let's get cozy and start talking sh*t.

Show Notes

0:58 Second semester chat

1:51 How am I liking Wharton?

3:19 Falling back on priorities

3:40 Group life reset

4:21 Starting as a leadership fellow

7:03 What I dislike about Wharton

7:19 Favorite class I’ve taken

9:45 Switching management companies

12:20 Adjusting to the si...

From corporate burnout to building her own creative agency, this week's guest, Madison Utendahl, walks us through her inspiring and multi-hyphenate career journey. We'll delve into her time at HBO, Refinery29, and her experience leading social media at the Museum of Ice Cream, and finally, how she founded her creative agency - Utendahl Creative, which has earned her recognition by Adweek's Creative 100 and Forbes' 30 Under 30.

Madison shares her candid story: navigating an identity crisis, finding creative fulfillment, planning a strategic job exit, setting business standards that prioritize work-life balance, and finding a supportive life partner. You will...

Discover four key elements that will reshape your self-image and strengthen your relationship with yourself. Tune in for practical inner work insights to help you build a more fulfilling and loving life.

Show Notes

1:24 How I’ve *really* been doing 

2:18 Why I love Valentine’s Day

3:24 Self-love and what it means

4:01 The categories of self-love

5:27 Navigating the pressure/anxiety around not being in a relationship

6:47 Putting yourself first regardless of your relationship status

7:27 Three things that make up self-love

8:3...

It's time we redefine selfishness, break free from old people-pleasing habits, and unapologetically prioritize our needs. It's easy to let life slip by without realizing how much we bend over for others' expectations, responsibilities, or demands that don't contribute to our well-being or personal growth.

We'll explore the consequences of sacrificing our needs for others and dive into the transformative journey of declaring our 'selfish era.' Tune in for practical insights on shifting your mindset and embracing an authentic, unapologetic way of living.

Show Notes

1:37 Managing the emotions that...

Join me for a raw and candid conversation as I unpack recent insults, dealing with haters in real life, and strategies for facing those who try to make you feel small.

We're unraveling the layers of people-pleasing, and why it's crucial to protect your energy in a world full of energy vultures.

Show Notes

2:00 You can’t be everything and still be liked

3:11 Protecting your energy as an ambitious person

4:31 Avoiding relationships with insecure people

5:32 Using accolades to remedy insecurities

7:00 Feeling as th...

Let's catch up! Tune in for some recent life updates, reflections on my dating life, and my ins and outs of 2024. I'll be sharing insights on mindsets, habits, self-care, and what I will absolutely NOT be tolerating this year. Join me for a breakdown of what's been happening and what's on the horizon!

Show Notes

2:42 Life update!

6:36 Burnout prevention

8:01 What classes am I taking!

9:29 Going with the flow

10:48 Dating again after a long-term relationship breakup – learning to be intentional

13:37 Setting personal standards an...

Today, we're diving into my journey getting off birth control and the lifestyle changes I've made to balance my hormones. I'll walk you through how I prepared my body to remove hormonal birth control, discuss the side effects I noticed, and share my research on the impact of birth control on our bodies. Additionally, I share what I'm doing now to balance my hormones, my list of favorite supplements, and other non-negotiable habits that have transformed my health.

Note: around minute 16:00 when I mention excess progesterone, I meant to say excess estrogen.

Resources mentioned:

This one's for all the material girls out there! In this episode, Alexis shares her 2023 favorites. Discover the secrets behind Alexis's glowing skin, must-have makeup essentials, luxurious home picks, fashion picks, and even book recs!

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MAKEUP

In this week's Too Smart For This, Alexis shares her goal-setting tips for the new year! Chock full of insight, practical tips, and inspiration, this solo episode is a must for empowering you on your journey toward a fulfilling and purpose-driven future. Tune in to discover the keys to unlocking your potential and making 2024 the year you turn your aspirations into reality!

Show Notes

3:27 How to set goals and create a vision board!

5:05 You can’t control time, but you can change your relationship with the clock

6:07 The su...

Welcome back to Too Smart For This episode 146! In this episode, Alexis shares details of her first semester experience in the Wharton MBA program. She covers everything you want to know - from finances and academics to social life.

If you're considering applying for an MBA, especially at a top program like Wharton, this episode is essential listening. Alexis tells all about the realities of B-school and life on campus as a first year MBA student.

Show Notes

1:20 Wharton Q&A!

2:29 Overview of business school<...

Welcome to a special milestone episode of Too Smart For This! Today, Alexis is celebrating her 25th birthday, and she's taking a moment to reflect on the valuable lessons she's learned in the past year. Join her as she shares personal insights, growth moments, and the wisdom gained on her journey so far. It's a candid episode filled with reflections, gratitude, and the anticipation of what lies ahead. Let's celebrate and learn together on this birthday edition of Too Smart For This!

Quick Notes

1:20 Recapping 24

2:15 Thank you!

2:30 Life...

Video Description

In this episode of Too Smart For This, join Alexis as she candidly shares some takeaways from what have been chaotic times, to say the least. She talks about prioritizing yourself again, how she came to the decision that she doesn't want to be actively dating and is ok with being single and walking through the uncomfortable changes that she’s going through.

Show Notes

1:46 Whirlwind first semester of Wharton

2:30 Life update!

6:47 Decentering men

8:50 You are in charge of your own happiness

Welcome back to Too Smart For This! This week, Alexis is sharing the tangible tips she used to #glowup this year! Make sure to rate the show 5 Stars and share on Instagram @toocollective

Don't forget that Too Collective is having our BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR: 25% off all robes! Get them before we sell out!

Show Notes

2:20 How to transform your life

4:23 TooCollective Black Friday sale!

5:13 10 tools I’ve used to glow up over the past year

5:57 #1 Dreaming + being honest with yo...

Welcome back to Too Smart For This! This week, Alexis is answering all of your questions on everything from Wharton to her new single life. Enjoy and make sure to follow her on Instagram for more!

Show Notes

4:11 Instagram Q&A!

4:59 How do you know if you’re ready for Grad School?

6:10 Creating an intentional career plan 

8:26 How old is the average MBA student?

11:01 What is the overall Wharton experience ;ole?

13:42 Knowing when to ask for help

16:02 Wha...

Welcome back to the Too Smart for This podcast! In today’s episode, Alexis is joined by KJ Miller, the dynamic force and co-founder behind Mented Cosmetics. KJ's journey is one of inspiration, innovation, and sheer determination as she has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the beauty industry. In this exclusive interview, KJ will take us through her remarkable journey, sharing the behind-the-scenes process and experiences that led to the creation of Mented Cosmetics. If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, inclusivity, and the world of cosmetics, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! 

Hi, babes! Welcome back to the Too Smart for This podcast! In this week’s episode, Alexis is joined by former Cosmopolitan beauty editor Carly Cardellino, who shares her insights on establishing a thriving career and her bold decision to forge her own path in content creation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that’s sure to ignite your passion for beauty and entrepreneurship!

Show Notes

1:29 Rapid fire questions!

6:04 Importance of prioritizing authenticity

9:24 Keys to embracing aging

12:19 Refuse to be discouraged

13:00 Pivoting from Cosmopolitan

In this episode of Too Smart For This, Alexis takes the listeners on a candid journey through the challenging months that prompted her to prioritize self-care and make some necessary, selfish decisions. Don't miss this inspiring episode as she discusses the power of choosing oneself and the personal growth that can arise from even the toughest of times.

Show Notes

1:00 Embracing adversity and finding the courage to choose yourself

1:47 Setting boundaries and prioritizing yourself/your needs

2:17 Reflecting on the past few months

3:33 You are capable of...

This week on the Too Smart For This podcast, we welcome Jade Beguelin, a content creator and businesswoman whose journey through entrepreneurship and personal growth has been nothing short of aspirational/inspiring. The two dive into Jade’s story, sharing invaluable insights into the world of business, and information bound to ignite your passion and help you chart your own path to success!

Show Notes

1:13 Rapid fire questions

9:38 Learn about Jade!

13:41 Souls searching process to find your life’s purpose

15:05 4am Skin beginnings

17:24 How to s...

Busy is an understatement! As Alexis continues her journey at Wharton, she shares her tips/tricks/habits for staying mindful and maintaining composure amidst the chaos. 

Show Notes

2:41 Doing your best is good enough!

3:13 Importance of making time for movement

4:32 Role of exercise in boosting self-esteem

5:17 Benefits of working out in the morning

5:28 Using the “Power Hour” approach to get things done

6:26 How to quantify things in a healthy way

6:52 How tools like Google Calendar can elevate your life

7:4...

Alexis is BACK with the Sunday Solo Series, and today she shares her first impressions of Wharton, balancing her hectic life, and more!

Show Notes

1:04 Smart tip of the week

1:41 Superficial tip of the week

2:51 Wharton observations!

3:03 Finding time for introspection amid chaos and uncertainty

5:20 Navigating increased expenses

9:24 Approach to socializing

9:49 My class schedule!

12:26 Poconos recap!

Resources/Mentioned

Dellara’s Diary

The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts

...

From the PR world, to reality television, Inglewood-born Amanda Scott is this week’s guest on Too Smart For This! The ‘Sweet Life: Los Angeles’ star discusses everything from the realities of being in the limelight, to her self-care journey, and even money management advice for recent grads. It’s an episode you won’t want to miss!

Show Notes

2:00 Rapid fire questions

11:07 Reality TV portrayal

12:24 Developing and maintaining friendships with age

15:46 Confident people make better friends

18:24 Managing interpersonal conflict

20:52 Best part(s) of bein...

In this week’s Solo Sunday, Alexis delves into her tips for beginning a new era. Tune in as she discusses her product faves, the importance of leaving your comfort zone, and more!

2:01 Smart tip of the week

4:48 Superficial tip of the week

7:18 Life update!

10:33 Setting your anchor – the power of prioritization

11:16 Making friends in a new environment

12:42 Leaving your comfort zone to experience motivation, growth

15:30 The stress of social comparison

16:12 Instagram Q&A!

17:54 Starting a new job the...

Welcome back to Too Smart for This! In this week’s episode, Alexis delves into the intricate interplay between efficient time management and the essential practice of self-care. Join her as she discusses practical strategies for maximizing productivity while ensuring your well-being remains a top priority. 

Show Notes

2:03 Creating a structured but flexible daily routine

2:21 OCEAN personality test

3:36 Importance of being more conscientious

4:40 Employing measures to offset spontaneity/impulsiveness

5:44 Avoiding emotion-informed decisions

6:11 Think about how you want to impact the world

7...