Naked Beauty

Norma Kamali is a fashion innovator and true icon, and today, she’s sharing lessons from her remarkable life with the Naked Beauty audience. Norma and I discussed her early days of bringing vintage clothing from London to New York, the creation of innovative designs like the Sleeping Bag Coat and high-heeled sneaker, and her philosophy of making women feel great through fashion. We also into Norma's upbringing, her path-defining experiences, and her wellness routines that keep her vibrant at 80. Norma’s story underscores the importance of purpose, creativity, and self-care in navigating life’s challenges, and she provides such w...

Dr. Sharon Malone believes that every single person is their own primary caregiver and that we all need to take agency of our healthcare journey. In today’s episode, we unpack the key actions women need to be taking to safeguard their health. In our conversation, Dr. Malone discusses the historical context of healthcare and segregation, her inspirational journey to becoming a doctor, and her dedication to empowering women through accessible medical knowledge. Dr. Malone and I also discussed her book 'Grown Woman Talk,' which serves as a comprehensive guide for women navigating various health issues from their th...

In this episode of Naked Beauty, we’re unpacking a macro trend in the industry: experts are back in the spotlight. My producer, Mbiye Kasonga, joins me to discuss the trend of consumers seeking guidance from experienced professionals online, and how that’s reflected in recent beauty launches led by expert makeup artists and dermatologists. Sephora is particularly invested in expert-led brands, with brands like Danessa Myricks, Charlotte Tilbury. Brooke shares her personal experience with professional makeup artists, and Mbiye discusses the trends that preceded this moment in beauty culture and the environmental factors that might be contributing to it...

Umut and I took our first child-free vacation to Ibiza to celebrate our ten-year anniversary, and it was just the escape we needed. In this episode, Umut joins me to reminisce on the best parts of our trip, including beauty and wellness lessons from Ibiza, reviews of our favorite stays and meals, reflections on our parenthood journey, a few lessons we’ve learned about maintaining a healthy marriage. 

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When she was a baby, Deepica Mutyala was exposed to the cultural significance of eyeliner. While the eyeliner was swiped behind her ear for spiritual protection, this and other cultural beauty rituals would shape her future in beauty. Growing up in an immigrant family, Deepica felt the pressure to pursue a stable career that would help her achieve the American Dream. She explains why she is so grateful for her parents' support when she decided to take an unconventional approach, even when they didn’t fully understand how vlogging would pay the bills. Eventually, she built Live Tinted, a bu...

Shani Hillian’s holistic skincare journey began in her grandmother’s garden, where fresh-cut aloe was the go-to balm for skin issues. Now, with over 17 years of experience as an esthetician, she leverages her roots in holistic skincare to create rituals that restore balance for herself and her clients. Shani shared her experience of transitioning from hair styling to skincare, influenced by her modeling career, and discussed the importance of simple, effective skincare routines. Our conversation also covered Shani’s experience with pregnancy-related hair loss and her tips for skin-friendly nutrition, emphasizing balance rather than strict restrictions. And I couldn...

Dr. Anna Malaika Tubbs knows that the power of women’s activism can change the course of history. In Three Women she explored how Berdis Baldwin, Alberta King, and Louise Little’s motherly love prepared their sons to become renowned activists. This week, we’re chatting about her new book, Erased: What American Patriarchy Has Hidden from Us. In it, Dr. Tubbs explores how our Founding Fathers enshrined patriarchy into law, with the intention of building a nation for men. During our conversation, we discussed how American patriarchy extends into every part of our lives, including our beauty choices. 

When Chriselle Lim started blogging 18 years ago, she didn’t know she was building a career in what would become the most powerful industry today. During our conversation, Chriselle talks about watching the influencer industry develop from within, and how it led her to the most unexpected places. Growing up in Northern California and Korea, Chriselle felt pressured by national beauty standards, neither of which she thought she quite met. With limited Asian American representation in popular culture, she turned to fashion to project an air of confidence. She became the representation she always wanted as her digital audience gr...

Ms. Tina has been infusing bold and beautiful Texas style into global pop culture for decades. Sir John and I talked to Ms. Tina about her successful career as a stylist, her beauty regimen, building Cécred, and the significance of early exposure to images of Black beauty and power. We learned how she carries her mother's lessons about honoring creativity in yourself and your children. She told us about how her decision to enter beauty school in her 30s led her to build Headliners, a successful salon that cultivated beauty in Houston’s most powerful women. Of course, we...

Sofie Pavitt’s pivot from a 15-year career as a fashion designer to becoming NYC’s Acne Whisperer was in the works well before her official career change. While she was traveling to Seoul for her fashion job, she was introduced to innovative skincare products and treatments. This exposure planted a seed that would eventually lead her onto the shelves of every Sephora in the U.S.

After spending a year becoming a certified facialist while working full-time, Sofie left her career in fashion to do facials for her friends and industry contacts. As her client list...

After 350-plus episodes of Naked Beauty, it’s time to reflect on the key truths I’ve learned from our wonderful guests. In this episode, I share three vital beauty lessons I've learned from extensive conversations with makeup artists, dermatologists, celebrities, and scientists. These lessons include the power of intentional self-presentation, the significance of a consistent skincare routine, and the connection between beauty and meaningful interactions. Join me in this heartfelt reflection on beauty and self-expression.

What have you learned from 350+ episodes of Naked Beauty? Let us know at nakedbeautypodcast@gmail.com! 

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We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes this week. As the Senior Research & Education Manager at Paula’s Choice, Desiree Stordahl believes that skincare is nothing without the ingredients that define it. After growing up with a harsh-is-better approach to acne, Storedahl decided to abandon the SeaBreeze pads and take on a more thoughtful approach to beauty. She picked up a copy of Paula Begoun’s Beauty Bible, and the rest is history! Today, Storedahl not only understands her own skin, but is able to help so many others through her extensive dermatological research. Tune in for an extremely infor...

In this episode of the Naked Beauty Podcast, Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire, dives deep into her impressive career in fashion editing, her unique personal style, and her experiences within the fashion industry. During our conversation, Nikki shares how her family shaped her shopping habits and the details of her high-powered job, including how she manages and mentors a diverse team. She also outlines her fitness routines, beauty regimen, and how she believes personal style comes from lived experiences. Together, we explore Nikki’s inspiring journey and practical advice for those looking to break into the fashion and be...

Today’s episode with Bea Dixon, the visionary founder of the Honey Pot Company, is rooted in ancestral wisdom. Bea and I discussed her journey from battling bacterial vaginosis to founding the first black-owned plant-derived feminine care brand. We also discuss the recent uptick in acquisitions among black beauty founders, the impact of stress and environmental factors on vaginal health, and Beatrice's holistic self-care practices. Beat also shared insight into navigating business partnerships and maintaining product integrity while scaling a company. This conversation is a masterclass in the importance of perseverance, self-care, and community.

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During a conversation at The Reparations Club, I spoke to Victoria Monét about her debut children’s book, motherhood, and chasing her dreams. Victoria discussed the difficult moments of separation that inspired “Everywhere You Are.” From her daughter's stay in the NICU to her first day of school, Victoria realized there wasn't a market for explaining similar periods of distance to children. She drew on her incredible songwriting ability and childhood memories of living in a starlit neighborhood to write the book she and her daughter needed. The pair collaborated on this project, much like their Grammy nominated “Hollywood...

What makes Vanessa Lee one of the most sought-after medical aesthetics practitioners is her commitment to teaching and learning about all things beauty and science. During our conversation, Vanessa details her hands-on experience learning from beauty practitioners in Korea, including standing in for a model and receiving a treatment during a demonstration. Before her foray into the world of natural beauty aesthetics, Vanessa grew up bonding with her peers over beauty and skincare. Bonding over beauty carried into her professional life as she blended art and science to help her patients meet their beauty goals, while always looking like...

We are bring in a new era of Naked Beauty with this episode! As you may have seen, I am stepping into a new role as Chief Content Officer at Refinery29. This new role provides a great opportunity for reflection. In this episode, I discuss the four key lessons I’ve learned in my career thus far. I touch on the value of manifesting dreams, tactics for getting closer to your dream career in your current job, and the power we all have to choose how we show up in professional spaces. Listen for a reminder to trust your pa...

Before Ron Robinson became social media’s favorite cosmetic chemist, he had already built a varied career in beauty. In 1989, he was hired on the spot to formulate and develop products for Clinique and La Mer, under Estée Lauder. He formulated new SKUs and innovated products like Clinique’s Turn Around Cream, which was one of the first products to use salicylic acid as a topical treatment gel. Despite his obvious aptitude for beauty science, he was on track to become a doctor like his brothers. To his parents' dismay, he dropped out of medical school but quickly found...

In this week’s episode, Nina Westbrook, a licensed marriage and family therapist, helps us understand the connection between routine and mental health. We dive into the importance of routines, especially postpartum routines, and I share my experiences with strength training and magnesium supplements for better sleep. Our conversation covers mental health, de-stigmatizing therapy, and the benefits of routine for overall mental well-being. Nina also talks about her app, Nebbi, designed to help users reflect on their emotions and improve their mood with small, actionable tasks. 

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Renowned esthetician Sean Garrette is back for a hyperpigmentation masterclass! Hyperpigmentation is the number one skin concern I hear about from the Naked Beauty audience, so I had to ask Sean all my burning questions about the topic. In this conversation, we discuss what hyperpigmentation is, the key causes of hyperpigmentation, how to treat it once it occurs and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. 

Shop the products mentioned in this episode:

Eighth Day Tonic

Paula’s Choice Mandelic + Lactic Acid Toner 

Good Genes Lactic Acid...

In this special conversation, Kamie Crawford shares how she developed the self-assuredness that her fans have come to know and love. We discussed how having a mom who would get dressed up in the morning, “just in case,” influenced her childhood rebrand into a more confident version of herself. This rebrand would catapult her into Miss Teen USA, a role that led her to think critically about her race and body image. Kamie shared her current interest in body neutrality and her “stay-ready” approach to beauty and style. We couldn’t end the conversation without talking about her relationship and what b...

Former doula and postpartum expert Erica Chidi is back on the podcast to discuss all the highs, lows, and complexities of postpartum. I got a chance to reflect on my personal postpartum experiences and the challenges of advocating for my own health. Erica and I get into it all: hormonal changes, hair loss, mood fluctuations, the importance of self-care, breastfeeding challenges and the concept of being 'touched out'. Erica offers practical advice on physical and emotional recovery, essential products for new moms, and discusses the critical role of partners in supporting postpartum care. 

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Nayeema Raza brought us the same curiosity and knowledge she brings to her Smart Girl, Dumb Questions listeners. Her early life was spent globe-trotting, so hearing her firsthand perspective on the similarities in beauty standards and practices is fascinating. Nayeema proudly detailed some of her favorite aspects of Pakistani beauty culture, especially how it has been shaped by powerful Islamic women and their preference for natural beauty treatments. We ended with a great discussion about all that she’s learned about her body while freezing her eggs and dating in NYC.

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In this week’s episode, I sat down for a beauty tell-all with beauty veterans Jill and Carlene of the Breaking Beauty Podcast. During our conversation, Jill and Carlene discussed their pre-podcast careers in broadcasting and editorial, which informed their approach to Breaking Beauty. It was such a great opportunity to learn about how they developed the podcast and came together to tell behind-the-scenes beauty stories. We talked about how the role of the influencer, marketing, and even podcasting has changed since their launch in 2017. Jill and Carlene shared the truth behind manufacturing costs, the future of beauty, and wh...

In today’s episode,  I’m joined by the fabulous Sean Garrett, renowned esthetician and skincare creator, for a Met Gala recap. We talked through all the behind the scenes details of the night, from the star-studded pre-parties to the dazzling outfits and the powerful display of black excellence. We broke down our favorite and least favorite looks of the night, from Janelle Monet to Hailey Bieber. Sean also shares invaluable skincare tips, including techniques for calming inflammation and how to prepare for major events. 

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This week’s guest is everyone’s favorite entertainment host, Scott Evans. During our conversation, Scott shared how his career has been in the making since high school. He discussed how his roles at major media outlets prepared him to lead a team of three to critical acclaim. From his decision to lock his hair, to advocating for his makeup finish, Scott is no stranger to speaking confidently onscreen and off.

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Achieng Agutu’s larger-than-life online presence has inspired millions to live boldly and confidently. However, few would guess that the Kenyan star struggled against expectations that she would live a humble and modest life. During our chat, we talked about how her parents encouraged her to reject these ideals and live a full life, no matter what others thought.  Achieng never misses an opportunity to describe how her village shaped her, especially her host mother, who gave her the freedom to make her own decisions. And of course, she dished on her journey to becoming everyone’s favorite internet besti...

In this special 'Ask Brooke' episode of Naked Beauty, I answer beauty questions from the Naked Beauty community! Tune in to hear my top tips for dealing with breakouts, pregnancy skincare, and covering the appearance of pores under makeup. 

Listen for… 

The best skincare tips to treat and prevent breakouts (2:09)

Pregnancy Skincare Routine & Natural Skincare (8:50)

You may know Weezy for her wild stories on her podcast Decisions, Decisions, but there’s so much more to the serial entrepreneur than meets the eye. Since the last time Weezy was on the show, she’s opened a Pilates business, grown her podcast production company, written a book, and fallen in love, so we had a lot to talk about. Tune in for a conversation about self-love, Weezy’s experience as a mixed race woman, and how healthy relationships affect our self-perception. Note: The episode includes explicit and adult conversations.

Check out TrapHaus in NYC <...

In this episode of The Naked Beauty Podcast, we explore the world of nails and nail art, tracing its evolution from a trend seen primarily in the black community during the 90s to a global phenomenon today. I spoke with Tembe Denton Hurst, author of 'Fresh Sets,' a coffee table book showcasing nail art from around the world. We discuss the history of nail salons, the impact of Vietnamese immigrants on the industry, and the gendered aspects of nail art. You'll also hear from UK nail artist Sylvie McMillan about her artistry, and members of the Naked Beauty...

“I couldn’t compare myself, so there was no way for me to diminish my own beauty against somebody else’s” - Bozoma Saint John 

When it comes to tapping into your most authentic self, Bozoma Saint John is unmatched. With an exceptionally fruitful career at companies like PepsiCo, Beats, Uber, and now Netflix, one might think that Saint John has always played by the corporate rulebook. That couldn’t be further from the truth. With an endless array of bold lipsticks, hairdos, and fits, she is living proof that a Black woman's right to self-expression and beauty...

If Doechii’s Paris Fashion Week looks had you obsessed, this episode is for you! I had the pleasure of talking with her makeup artist Chelsea Uchenna and hairstylist Malcolm Marquez about their collaboration with the icon in the making. Despite growing up on opposite sides of the world, both artists had innate creative sensibilities, decided early on that they would have careers in beauty, and were inspired by iconic queer and trans communities. In their respective interviews, Chelsea and Malcolm discuss how they came to be part of Doechii’s team and how they help one another push thei...

It’s official, Naked Beauty is the winner of the iHeartMedia’s Best Fashion and Beauty Podcast Award! Join my producer Mbiye and me for a recap of the night we found out that we won, from the looks we wore to the after-parties we went to. Thank you so much to the Naked Beauty family for all the support you’ve shown me over the years – this award would not have been possible without you! 

Thank you so much for listening! 

Send your burning beauty questions to nakedbeautypodcast@gmail.com subject line ‘ask Brooke’...

Hi beauties! This week, Naked Beauty is headed to Austin as a nominee for Best Beauty Podcast at the iHeartMedia Podcast awards. I can’t wait to share more updates from Austin, but today we have an incredible conversation for you with Annie Jackson, co-founder of Credo Beauty. We discuss the importance of transparency in beauty products, the harmful impacts of certain ingredients, and how Credo Beauty's stringent standards ensure safer, environmentally-friendly products. Annie also shares insights into her career journey from Estee Lauder to Sephora and eventually Credo Beauty, along with tangible steps we can take as consumers to...

In this episode of Naked Beauty, I dive into the ongoing battle for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as it relates to beauty. This conversation is multifaceted, so I knew we had to talk with some industry experts who have been championing inclusion throughout their whole careers. I talked with my mother, Jerry Devard, to gain her insights from a corporate viewpoint, as well as Sir John, global artist and advocate for multicultural beauty, and Kendra Bracken Ferguson, a venture capitalist committed to supporting black founders. Together, we explore the rollback of DEI initiatives, the significance of mental health...

Hi beauties! It feels so good to be back from maternity leave. So much has changed since our last episode of 2024 – my daughter Jade has made her arrival and we’re all adjusting to being a family of four. When I went on maternity leave, I chose to take a 6-week break from social media so I could really soak in this chapter in our family’s life. I learned so much in my time away from social media, and I wanted to kick off the first episode of 2025 on the six biggest benefits I experienced from being offline. After...

In the last episode of the year, I was the Naked Beauty interviewee. Our incredibly talented producer, Mbiye Kasonga, and I sat down to reflect on the previous two years we’ve spent working together. She asked me about my interest in storytelling and my experiences after a full year of working for myself and taking creative risks. It gave me a chance to talk about my early interests in audio storytelling and the inspiration I drew listening to Wendy Williams after school every day. We also talked about our professional partnership and how committing to decisiveness and rejecting pe...

“For me, my flaws are what make me and I've learned through years to embrace that, and I like them now.”

Issa Rae, actress, producer, and serial entrepreneur talked about all things beauty and self care on this week’s episode. Issa shared what it was like growing in L.A. and how a trip to Senegal reaffirmed her beauty when she was still in high school. We talked about her iconic looks on Insecure and she underscored how exciting it was to have collaborated with the talented crew who built the worlds so many of us lov...

In today’s episode of Naked Beauty, I spoke to three writers from top beauty brands: Glossier, Dieux, and Sol de Janeiro for a deep dive into all things beauty copywriting. In the crowded landscape of beauty, tone, and voice are key ways for brands to break through the noise. I’ve been wanting to do an episode on this topic for so long - tune in for conversations with Laura Casciola of Dieux Skin, Hardeep Gill, formerly a copywriter for Glossier, and Janell Hickman of Sol de Janeiro for an in-depth discussion of what it takes to translate brand...

Sir John and I had a fascinating conversation with Dita Von Teese, the Queen of Burlesque. We talked about her childhood and the Hollywood starlets that inspired her to transform into the pinup girl of her dreams. Dita shared with us how her start dancing in the rave and strip club scene empowered her to always be her unique self. We also got the inside scoop on her Vegas show, a compilation of her life's work that includes original and iconic Bob Mackie costumes and of course her incredible beauty and skincare routine. Our chat illuminates Dita Von Teese’s...