
Scaling Emerging Beauty
The Scaling Emerging Beauty podcast provides actionable insights and strategies to scale beauty brands from $0 to $20M, focusing on growth through retail opportunities. Host Monique Benoit, a former merchant at Target and Anthropologie, talks with founders, retailers, and other experts. The show offers relevant tactics for brands in the trenches and valuable content for industry enthusiasts.
Episodes

E 813: How to Scale a Beauty Brand from DTC to Retail—with Anthony Standifer
Summary In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, I sit down with Anthony Standifer—co-founder of MSeed Group and a 25-year beauty industry veteran. We get into the real talk around what it takes to scale from direct-to-consumer to retail—and how to stay profitable while doing it. We discuss: - How to stand out in crowded beauty categories through niche positioning - Why building emotional conne

E 812: Financial Strategy for Beauty Brands: Cash Flow, Retail Growth, and Smart Funding
Summary In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, I'm joined by Matt Putra, fractional CFO and founder of Eightx, a financial advisory firm helping CPG and beauty brands scale responsibly. If you've ever felt unsure about forecasting cash flow, managing inventory costs, or figuring out how to fund retail growth—this is your episode. Matt shares his proven frameworks for financial planning, with

E 811: Winning Beauty Customers with Storytelling, Site Experience, and Loyalty
In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, I'm joined by Sarah Gallagher—founder of e-commerce agency Gamma Waves and a marketing strategist behind powerhouse brands like Supergoop. Sarah has helped both emerging and established brands scale through digital optimization, brand storytelling, and smart consumer engagement strategies. We explore: ✅ What makes a beauty brand story stick—and why clari

E 810: Trademark Essentials for Emerging Brands with Lauren Bercuson of Storylock Legal
Trademark protection isn't just for big brands — it's essential for emerging founders too. In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, Monique sits down with Lauren Bercuson, founder of Storylock Legal, to break down the basics of trademarks, common mistakes founders make, and how protecting your brand early can save you major time and money later. Lauren shares her experience helping CPG and beau

E 809: Scaling Smarter: DTC Profitability and Website Simplicity with Ben Sharf of Platter
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands have more tools than ever — but scaling profitably online? That's still a huge challenge. In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, Monique sits down with Ben Sharf, founder of Platter, to talk about why profitability and simplicity are the new superpowers for growing your DTC business. Ben shares insights from building Platter, a tech-enabled service that's simpl

E 808: What Your Price Says About Your Brand
Your price is part of your story. In the final part of the pricing series, we explore how pricing ties into your brand's perception, positioning, and customer expectations. Your packaging, claims, and storytelling all need to back up your price — especially if you're playing in premium or prestige spaces. In this episode, you'll learn: How price communicates brand value before anyone tries your

E 807: How Adam Callinan Built an 8-Figure Brand Without a Big Team — and Why Profitability is the New Superpower
Is it possible to build a multi-million-dollar brand without investors — or even a full-time team? Adam Callinan, founder of Bottlekeeper and now CEO of Pentane, proves it can be done. In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, Monique sits down with Adam to discuss how he scaled Bottlekeeper to over $8M in annual revenue without taking on outside funding or massive headcount. Adam shares the sys

E 806: COGs & Margins - The Math Behind Profitable Pricing
You can't scale your brand if you don't understand your numbers. In part three of the pricing series, we're talking all about COGS (Cost of Goods Sold) and margin — what they are, why they matter, and how to reverse-engineer your retail price to protect your profits. This is the financial foundation you must have before stepping into retail. In this episode, you'll learn: What's included in your

E 805: Building a $10M+ Brand from Scratch with Brooks Powell of Cheers
What if you could launch your brand, scale it to 8 figures in revenue, and land 32,000 retail doors — all without a traditional background in business? In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, Monique sits down with Brooks Powell, Founder and CEO of Cheers, a category-creating brand in the after-alcohol wellness space. Brooks shares how he turned a neuroscience research paper into a multimillio

E 804: Why Your Price Might Change Depending on the Retailer
Pricing doesn't exist in a vacuum — it shifts based on where you're selling. In part two of the pricing series, we explore how your price needs to align with your retailer's expectations. From mass to specialty to club stores, we'll talk strategy, margins, and what happens when your price doesn't match the store environment. In this episode, you'll learn: How pricing varies across mass, drug, na

E 803: How to Fund Your Beauty Brand Growth Without Giving Up Equity — with Marshall Lebovits
Finding the right funding is one of the biggest challenges for emerging beauty brands today. In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, Monique is joined by Marshall Lebovits, a financing expert with 35+ years of lending experience. Marshall breaks down how early-stage brands can use asset-based funding to scale without giving up ownership — and what you need to know before taking on this type of

E 802: How to Price Your Product to Compete in Your Category
Pricing isn't just a number — it's a strategy. In part one of this four-part pricing series, we're diving into how to set a competitive price that makes sense in your category and against your competitors. Whether you're launching your first product or reassessing your retail strategy, this episode will help you understand where you fit and how to price to stand out, not blend in. In this episode,

E 801: Rebranding with Sustainability and Purpose: Ethique Beauty's Story
In this episode, Monique sits down with Erica Cocilova, CMO of Ethique, to discuss how mission-driven beauty brands can scale without compromising their core values. Erica shares lessons from her career at powerhouse brands like Dove, Happy Baby, and Briogeo, and dives deep into Ethique's recent rebrand journey. You'll hear real talk on sustainability, retail expansion with Ulta Beauty, smart fund

E 711: Scaling The Honey Pot Company: Retail Strategy, Sales Growth & Fundraising
In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, I sit down with Kelly Bottenfield, co-founder and sales leader at The Honey Pot Company. Kelly has over 25 years of experience in the CPG industry, starting her career at Whole Foods before transitioning to sales and brand-building. She played a pivotal role in scaling The Honey Pot Company from a small, bootstrapped startup to a household name in mass r

E 710: How In-Store Events & Field Sales Teams Drive Beauty Brand Growth
In this episode of the Scaling Emerging Beauty Podcast, I sit down with Dwight Allen O'Neal and Karess Rosemé, the co-founders of Rose Neal Collective, a boutique agency dedicated to enhancing the beauty experience for BIPOC consumers and emerging brands. We dive into the critical role of in-store events, field sales teams, and trade marketing in building brand awareness and driving retail success

E 709: Why a Hero Product Could Be Essential for Your Beauty Brand's Success
In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, host Monique Benoit explores the power of a hero product and why it's a game changer for early-stage beauty brands. Looking at brands like Fenty Beauty, Olaplex, Dyson, and K-18, Monique breaks down how a standout product can create brand recognition, build customer loyalty, and simplify operations. A hero product isn't just about strong sales—it can def

E 708: Scaling Your Beauty Brand: Demand Planning, Retail Strategy & Smart Operations
In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Gilbert, a beauty industry expert who has worked behind the scenes at powerhouse brands like Glossier and The Lip Bar. Ashley takes us through the operational side of beauty, sharing how brands successfully scale—from warehouse moves to demand planning to ensuring products are retail-ready. We break down: - The role of operations in beauty brand growth - How

E 707: How to Scale a Beauty Brand in Retail: Insider Tips from Ray Richardson
Summary Ready to take your beauty brand from startup to retail success? In this episode of Scaling Emerging Beauty, host Monique Benoit sits down with retail expert Ray Richardson, a veteran with nearly 20 years of experience in sales, retail management, and advising. Ray has worked with top brands like WILL Perform by PBC with Serena Williams and understands the key challenges and strategies for

E 706: Key Differences in Scaling vs. Starting a Brand
Summary Starting a beauty brand in 2025 is easier than ever—thanks to social media, influencer platforms, and white-label manufacturing. But scaling that brand into a retail powerhouse? That's where the real challenge begins. In this solo episode, I break down why the barriers to entry have never been lower, yet the hurdles to scaling have never been higher. From funding and logistics to retail co

E 705: How a Cardiologist Created a Global SkinCare Brand
Summary In this episode, Dr. Tiina Meder shares her unique journey from studying cardiology, becoming a dermatologist and ultimately a skincare brand founder and entrepreneur. She discusses her motivations for creating her brand, the challenges of navigating global markets, and the importance of product development and consumer needs. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tiina Meder shares insights

E 704: Balancing Confidence and Humility as an Entrepreneur
Summary In this episode, Monique Benoit, explores the delicate balance between confidence and humility that every beauty founder needs to master. Confidence helps you stay true to your vision, while humility allows you to learn, grow, and adapt. Monique shares actionable insights from her experience working with major beauty brands, including lessons from representing brands and curating product

E 703: Building a Brand with Consistency, Trial, and Error featuring the Founders of Geologie
Summary In this episode of the Scaling Emerging Beauty podcast, Monique Benoit speaks with Nick and Dave, co-founders of Geologie, about their journey in launching and scaling their skincare brand. They discuss the challenges of starting a beauty brand, the importance of having a solid team, and the need for a good manufacturing partner. The conversation also touches on product development, findi

E 702: A Founder's Story on Scaling - Mindset Matters, Enjoy the Journey
Summary In this episode, Janell Stephens, CEO and founder of Camille Rose, shares her inspiring journey of creating a textured hair and beauty brand from her kitchen to major retailers like Target. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset, and the lessons learned along the way. Janell emphasizes the significance of taking one's time in business, trus

E 701: A Merchant's Perspective on Independent Brands & Scaling at Retail
Summary In this conversation, Senait Tzegai, a health and beauty buyer at Pop Shelf, shares her insights on the beauty industry, focusing on the assessment of new brands, the importance of brand stories, and the role of independent brands in retail. She emphasizes the need for brands to understand their purpose in light of the competition, the significance of community engagement, and the trends

E 611: Marketing with Empathy, Integrity, & Intention
Summary Keren Davy, a fractional CMO, shares her marketing philosophy rooted in integrity, empathy, and intention. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the target audience and crafting marketing strategies that resonate with them. Keren advises brands to start with an internal and external focus, balancing their unique offerings with consumer needs. She suggests low-cost, high-impact m

E 610: Responsible Networking - Following Up to be Persistent Not Annoying
In this monologue, Monique shares essential strategies for effectively networking with retail buyers. Monique emphasizes the importance of research, personalizing outreach, and mastering follow-up techniques to build strong relationships with retailers. Monique also highlights the significance of in-person networking and the need for a concise pitch to stand out in a competitive environment. Links

E 609: Selling In & Creating a Strong Pitch Deck for Retailers
Host: Monique Benoit Guest: Vanessa Lee Vanessa Lee, founder of GuestHouse, discusses the importance of sales in scaling emerging beauty brands. She emphasizes the need for a strong pitch deck when approaching retailers, with key elements including strong visuals, concise copy, and data points. Vanessa also highlights the importance of tailoring the pitch deck to specific retailers, using their t

E 608: Strategic Promotions During the Holidays and Beyond
In this monologue, I discuss the significance of strategic promotions in retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG). Promotions should not just be random discounts. They should align with business goals to drive visibility, revenue, and customer loyalty. Also, keep in mind the importance of analyzing the effectiveness of promotions and keeping track of past promotions to inform future strategies, e

E 607: The Role of PR Exposure for Emerging Brands
Reena Goodwin, founder and CEO of Facteur PR, discusses the role of public relations (PR) in helping early-stage beauty brands enhance their marketing strategies. PR is the activity of influencing public perception about a brand through various communication channels, such as journalists, influencers, and social media. Good PR can create tension and impact consumer decision-making. It is important

E 606: Identifying Whitespace in Beauty Retail
Summary In this conversation, I share insights on how brands can identify and leverage white space opportunities in the beauty and retail industry. I draw from my experience as a former retail buyer. I discuss the importance of understanding market gaps, the dynamics of retailer relationships, and the significance of consumer insights. I emphasize the need for brands to recognize what retailers

E 605: Key Elements of Brand Identity & Social Media Strategies
Kellie Chen is the co-founder of 8Rue, a boutique branding agency, shares her expertise in brand strategy for emerging beauty brands. She discusses the shift in consumer engagement with brands due to the rise of social media, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and transparency. Kellie also highlights the key elements of brand identity, including audience understanding, mission and story de

E 604 Five Tips to Ensure Your Packaging is Retail Ready
Summary In this solo episode, I discuss the critical role of packaging in retail. Packaging is often your first impression at the shelf. I emphasize that even the best products can fail if their packaging does not meet retail standards. I outline key considerations for creating retail-ready packaging, including supply chain logistics, shelf appeal, and the importance of brand visibility. This ep

E 603: Learn How Faire Can Help You Scale Your Brand
Summary In this episode I sit down with Moni Kupczak Ainslie, founder of Koopslie Consulting, to dive deep into the power of leveraging FAIR, a B2B marketplace, for scaling beauty brands at retail. Moni shares her journey from running a successful fashion business to helping emerging beauty brands stand out in front of independent retailers. Throughout the conversation, they explore how FAIR opera

E 602: Consider This Before Contacting a Retail Buyer
Summary In this solo episode, Monique Benoit shares essential tips for emerging beauty brands looking to pitch to retail buyers. She emphasizes the importance of competitive shopping, understanding consumer demographics, crafting a unique brand story, ensuring financial preparedness, and sustaining success once on the retail shelf. Each of these elements is crucial for brands to effectively commun

E 601: The Importance of Inventory Management for Emerging Brands
In this episode, I sit down with Shannara Goode, an inventory management professional with experience at brands of various sizes, and at major retailer, Target. Shannara discusses the importance of inventory management for emerging brands. She emphasizes that inventory management can make or break a brand's success in retail and highlights the need for efficient supply chain operations. Goode s

E 507: Retail Insights: Consumers, Shopping Behavior & Trends
In this conversation, Monique chats with Zach Stewart to discuss category insights and retail trends. Zach Stewart is a Category Insights Manager at The Emerson Group. Zach gives us insights into the shopping habits of different generations, the evolving role of retailers, and the balance between DTC and physical stores. He emphasizes understanding and catering to the unique needs and prefe

E 506: Considerations for Finance and Growth Strategy with Lunr Capital
In this episode, I sit down with Jackie Bae of Lunr Capital to discuss funding option for early-stage brands, and specifically - inventory financing. Jackie is the Head of Client Partnerships at Lunr Capital. Jackie shares the story behind Lunr Capital and how they provide financing solutions for consumer product brands. We discuss the importance of inventory management and the challenges of fun

E 505: Get to Know Natural Food Grocers: Differentiation, Costs & Sales Drivers
In this episode, I have a deep dive conversation into the natural food/grocer channel. If you've ever had grocers like Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, or Moms Market on your dream retailer list - this one is for you. Our guest, Amy Jargo serves as the Director of Product Management at Pacha. She shares insights on the differences between mass retail and the natural channel in the beauty industry. S

E 504: All Things Retail Media Networks for Emerging Brands
Have you ever wanted an inside scoop on retail media networks as it relates to small brands? Look no further! In this episode, I'm joined by Ross Maltby, head of New Business Development at Voyageur Group. We discuss the definition of retail media networks, the rise of retail media as the third wave of digital advertising, and the impact of COVID-19 on the growth of these networks. We also expl

E 503: How Sherrel Sampson Grew Canviiy from Farmer's Markets to Mass Retail & Healthcare GPO's
Sherrel Sampson, founder and CEO of Canviiy, shares her journey of starting a hair care brand focused on scalp health. The idea for Canviiy came about when Sherrel experienced an itchy scalp after getting extensions. She realized that existing scalp care products were greasy and contained harsh chemicals, so she decided to create her own non-greasy, premium itch-calming serum. Initially targetin

E 502: Critical Finance Information for Profitability and Scaling in CPG with the CPG CFO, Abby Richards
In this conversation, Abby June Richards and Monique Benoit discuss the challenges and strategies for growing a brand at big retail. They cover topics such as bootstrapping, strategic decision-making, choosing the right investors, managing cash flow, understanding payment terms, and advice for early-stage founders. Abby emphasizes the importance of financial modeling, maximizing margins, diversify

E 501: How April Showers Used the AfroUnicorn Lifestyle Brand, Entered Beauty and Created a Movement
April Showers, founder of Afro Unicorn, shares her journey of building a lifestyle brand that celebrates the uniqueness and magic of women and children of color. Afro Unicorn offers a wide range of products, from apparel to haircare to consumables, and aims to be present in every aspect of people's lives. April discusses how she entered the beauty industry after receiving emails from buyers at Wal

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E 407: A Founders Guide to Prioritizing Self-Care
In this episode of the Beauty from the Shelf podcast, host Monique Benoit delves into the crucial topic of self-care for founders with guest Jasmin Foster. As an entrepreneur in the early-stage beauty industry, Jasmin understands the demands and challenges founders face in juggling multiple roles. The conversation begins by highlighting the importance of prioritizing self-care amidst the hustle of

E 406: Evolving & Navigating Retail Post-COVID
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Beauty from the Shelf podcast with your host, Monique Benoit. In this episode, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of retail post-COVID, exploring how the dynamics have shifted for emerging brands venturing into the retail space. Our guest, John Peine, has a wealth of experience in the industry. He sheds light on the changes in shopping behavior a

E 405: Crafting Beauty: Formulators & Product Developers with Robin Beck
In this episode of Beauty from the Shelf, Monique Benoit sits down with Robin Beck, CEO of Manufacturing to Retail, a company specializing in product development strategies. With a background as a chemist and experience working for major organizations like Target and Ecolab, Robin brings invaluable insights into business strategy and product development. The conversation kicks off with an explorat

E404: Creating Unique Brand Experiences with Kimberly Waters
In this episode of Beauty from the Shelf, we delve into the world of boutique retailing with Kimberly Waters, owner, founder, and creative director of M.U.S.E., Modern Urban Sensory Experiences. Located in the heart of Harlem, Muse stands as Harlem's premier niche fragrance destination, offering a unique space for consumers to explore luxury perfumes in an intimate, welcoming environment. Kimber

E 403: Unlocking Salon Success | Expert Insights Revealed
Welcome to an eye-opening episode where we delve into the dynamic world of retail channels beyond the everyday. Our expert guest, Mercedes Asare joins the show. Mercedes has hands-on experience working both on the brand side and through distributors. She sheds light on the unique strategies employed to sell products in hair salons and spas. We explore the crucial role distributors play, the vast o

E 402: Speaking Truth & Being True to Brand Values
If you've ever questioned or wondered how businesses stay true to their brand values and address bold topics trending in current culture then this episode is for you. Monique sits down with Julie Kuciski, a long-time industry veteran, and talks about how your core beliefs can allow brands to show up and mean more to their target consumer. Speaking out isn't just about being bold - it's about creat

E 401: Consumer Care & Early Stage Brands
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Beauty from the Shelf Podcast! In today's conversation, our host, Monique Benoit, talks with Anna Marie La Venia and dives deep into the realm of Consumer Care and its role in the success of early-stage beauty brands. The conversation begins by unraveling the essence of Consumer Care, distinguishing it from conventional customer service. Unlike the tran

E 307: Funding Options with Spur Pathways & Momentus Capital
In this episode, I'm joined by Ashley McLeod of Momentus Capital and Byron Whitmore of Macy's, Inc. to discuss S.P.U.R. Pathways (Shared Purpose, Unlimited Reach), a multiyear, multifaceted funding program to advance entrepreneurial growth, close wealth gaps and shatter systemic barriers faced by diverse-owned and underrepresented businesses. We discuss the partnership between Momentus Capital and

E 306: Nailing Your Brand Why with Rajaa G
In this insightful podcast episode featuring brand strategist and growth marketer Rajaa Grar. The overarching theme centers on "Nailing Your Brand 'Why' in a Digital World." Rajaa draws from a wealth of experience and categories including: Meal Delivery, Starbucks, Amazon, Paula's Choice, and the Hydration industry. Rajaa begins by sharing her process for defining or redefining a brand's 'why'.

E 305: How to Tell Your Brand Story
For this solo episode, I decided to talk about crafting your story as a brand. If you're already established, telling your story is more about validating the proof that's out there, and sharing the interesting parts. Here are some starter questions to get you going: What is the reason for starting your brand? Who is going to buy your brand? What problems does your ideal customer have? What pr

E 304: Consumer Research, a Key Part of Your Business
Dive into the world of consumer research and its pivotal role in the CPG industry with our latest podcast episode with guest Kristen Evans. Kristen is a 15-year veteran in the consumer research space with experience in sports, CPG and at agencies. The conversation unfolds with a focus on the challenges smaller brands face due to limited funding. At 3:19, we explore the critical question of when

E 303: Product Development & Innovation
In this episode, we visit the topic of product innovation and product development. We are joined by Mikaela Maxwell. Mikaela shares her thoughts on where to look for innovation using accessible tools. She also offers advice on building supplier pipelines, and questions to ask as you are building your plans for product development. Mikaela Maxwell is a versatile professional with a wealth of expe

E 302: The Importance of a Good Team
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of business growth, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Today we're in for a treat as we have an incredible guest, Monica Saracino, a rockstar leader with a track record of scaling businesses across various industries, from beauty and lifestyle to the world of fashion. Monica has been part of some remarkable ventures, including Beach House Group, known fo

E 301: Effective Marketing Drives Results with Tia Cummings-Hopkins
In this episode, I speak with Tia Cummings-Hopkins about marketing. We get into specifics around how brands can assess their marketing strategies with KPIs. We discuss how brands can use their budget to stretch their money as far as possible. We also cover the importance of various marketing strategies including brand marketing, performance marketing and experiential marketing. Follow Us on Link

Episode 207: Sustainable Growth
In this episode, I speak with Patricia Valera, owner of beautybrandr - a company that works with indie beauty brands that are starting, scaling, or going global. Patricia and I chat about all the different types of growth. We also talk about the benefits of working with an adviser and how they might help you and your business. Podcast Outline & Order 01:30 "Thank you so much for…" Tell us abou

Episode 206: Channel Strategy
In this episode, I speak with Natalie Ryan about all things Channel. Channel Strategies are a common distinction in the CPG world, but they can sometimes be an afterthought for an early-stage brand. In this episode, Natalie defines what a channel is, and she discusses why brands need a channel strategy. We also discuss how brands can prioritize channels as they build their growth strategies. Pod

Episode 205: Creating a New Category for a Brand Launch
In this episode, I sit down with Sally Mueller of Womaness. Sally is the CEO & Co-Founder of Womaness. Womaness is about modernizing menopause through education and community. Sally spent her 35+ year career building brands for women. Sally spent a big part of her career at Target as a merchant and marketing looking over apparel marketing and design partnerships. Created her own business and helpe

Episode 204: Running a Business Teaches You to Control What You Can
In this episode, I sit down with Beatrice Dixon. Bea is the Co-Founder, CEO, Chief Innovation Officer and face of the Honey Pot Company. She wears many hats. Honey Pot Company is a vagina and human wellness brand that focuses to destigmatize how people talk about them. This is an extremely special episode for me because I met Bea in 2015 as a buyer over sanitary protection at Target. I brought the

Episode 203: Ulta Beauty's Support for New Beauty Brands
In this episode, I sit down with Renée Reid of Ulta Beauty. Renée is the Senior Brand Manager of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Ulta Beauty, and she drives the DE&I strategy across the merchant's business. Renee works with the brands to ensure they have a positive experience working with Ulta Beauty and is also responsible for Ulta's MUSE Accelerator Program. This episode includes tactical poi

Episode 202: Building Beauty Brands Then vs. Now
Sarah Kugelman is an original beauty founder. She created gloss.com in 2000, and was the CEO/Founder of Skyn Iceland until she sold that brand in 2022. In this episode of Beauty from the Shelf, we discuss investors, and challenges from her time in the industry. Listen to hear tips from someone who has created successful brands a few times over. "I recently had a conversation with an investor

Episode 201: Rebranding & Building a Sustainable Brand
Soapbox was created in 2010 while founder, David was still in undergrad. Throughout the company's existence, they have made a number of changes including two different rebrands. One thing has remained throughout: their commitment to sustainability. This episode includes the pros and cons of rebranding and some pitfalls and learnings on packaging. Guest Speaker: David Simnick Check out Soapbox at h

Episode 107: Incubating Brands
Today's guest is Scott Kestenbaum, Chief Growth Officer at Maesa. Monique & Scott discuss some of the benefits of incubating a brand, and also the combination of art and science to building a beauty brand today. Guest Speaker: Scott Kestenbaum Helpful Links & Resources Maesa: https://maesa.com/

Episode 106: Growth Tips & Strategies
A big topic for new brands surrounds the idea of growth. Growth can come in a variety of forms: added SKUs and new product innovation, gaining new consumers, gaining new distribution or placement. Today's guest is Chris Perry, Chief Learning Officer at First Movr. Monique & Chris discuss the different growth strategies, and some of the things brands should keep in mind as they evaluate which str

Episode 105: Marketing - Stand Out in the Crowd
There are 2 billion search results that pop up in Google if you search "anti-aging cream" in November 2022. With new brands and products every day, standing out in the crowd requires a purpose, and marketing strategies behind it. Today's guest is Robin Laueffer, Director of Marketing & Brand Research at Little Big Brands. Monique & Robin discuss the purpose of marketing, authenticity, and how smal

Episode 104: Hair Care Trends
We are joined by hair care & wellness category expert Meagan Wos of The Emerson Group. Meagan shares why insights are helpful. She also shares some of the key insights for the hair care category for the upcoming year. If you are looking to launch a brand or develop new product insights is a crucial step to guide you. Guest Speaker: Meagan Wos

Episode 103: Skin Care Trends
We are joined by skin care category expert Elise Morgan of The Emerson Group. Elise shares why insights are helpful, how brands can get insights for free, and how this helps brands remain competitive. She also shares some of the key insights for the skin care category for the upcoming year. If you are looking to launch a brand or develop new product insights is a crucial step to guide you. https:

Episode 102: E-Commerce Launch Strategies
Pure play DTC, E-Commerce Giant, or Omnichannel Retailer? In this episode, Monique sits down with Andrea Leigh, CEO of Allume Group to discuss E-Commerce as it relates to launching a beauty brand. We discuss customer acquisition costs, retail media networks, and new challenges in digital with rising inflation. Guest Speaker: Andrea Leigh Our web site: www.allumegroup.com Allume Group EIQ (eCommerc

Episode 101: Follow the Shopper
Follow the shopper, and you are sure to find success. In this episode, Monique sits down with Wendy Liebmann, CEO & Chief Shopper of WSL Strategic Retail. We discuss changes in prestige beauty, why following the shopper helps brands, the benefit of pricing items at a luxury price point, how Ulta was a visionary, and global shopping trends that Wendy is excited about. Guest Speaker: Wendy Liebmann

Scaling Emerging Beauty Trailer
Welcome to Scaling Emerging Beauty. A show that talks to industry experts with a focus on early stage beauty brands growing from 0 to $20M.











