Welcome back to Too Smart For This! This week, Alexis is joined by Olay Noel for a delightful conversation on all things self-care, entrepreneurship, and more.
The Atlanta, Georgia native knew from a young age that she was destined to walk the catwalk, drawing heavy inspiration from Naomi Campbell. While earning her degree from Kennesaw State University, Olay took a trip to New York City and returned with a modeling contract from Wilhelmina Models, the world-renowned agency that has had such clients as Naomi Sims, Anjelica Huston, Beverly Johnson, Patti Hansen, and Whitney Houston among others. Despite facing adversity as a woman of color in the modeling industry, Olay has continued to book countless projects including Essence, Cosmopolitan, and L’Officiel. Upon her parents’ advice, she has expanded her repertoire and started her own clothing and jewelry line with her sister that highlights the Black Diaspora, called MIANIK, which has been in business since 2019.
Listen to Olay's New Single “Flowers”
Show Notes
00:58 Learn more about Olay!
8:10 Solitude as self care
11:05 Olay’s career trajectory
13:03 Developing the confidence to audition yourself
14:52 Juggling and nurturing multiple interests and talents
16:07 Ignoring the pressure of conformity
17:52 Seeking other women for inspiration
20:39 Developing an entrepreneurial spirit/mindset
21:59 How to find structure amidst uncertainty and spontaneity
23:37 Investing in small things that boost your mental health
25:54 Trying to develop community in new environments
27:35 Knowing when to pivot when experiences no longer serve you
29:13 Importance of escaping your comfort zone to realize your true potential
32:15 Thinking of your life as a series of lessons rather than timelines
34:41 Importance of promoting inclusivity beyond fads or trends
37:59 Finding community in a post-pandemic world
39:29 Importance of being the initiator
Resources/Mentioned
Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil: https://rb.gy/5lirg
Osea Advanced Protection Cream: https://rb.gy/sr9bq
Zuri Fate Body Butters: https://rb.gy/so0hs
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: https://rb.gy/w550y
Glo Skin Beauty GlyPro AHA Resurfacing Peel: https://rb.gy/dwbwc
The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone: https://rb.gy/uq7yp
Keep up with Olay!
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