EP37: Beyond the Surface: Monaè Everett on Hair, Identity, and Inclusion in the Beauty & Corporate

Welcome back Thrivers! In this compelling episode, we sit with the renowned celebrity hairstylist, DEI speaker, and educator, Monaè Everett. Monaè shares her captivating journey in the beauty industry, offering insights into the evolution of her career and the pivotal role of hair in personal identity, especially for women of color. 

Monaè's story is a testament to resilience and the power of driving positive change, from facing challenges in the beauty industry to becoming a sought-after advocate. Monaè introduces us to The Crown Act, symbolizing the movement for a respectful and open world for natural hair. Some of her insights include the surprising lack of legal protection for certain hairstyles, the discriminatory policies and restrictions toward employees, the vision to have a beauty industry where diversity is the norm, and many more.

Discover Monaè's inspiring advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the beauty and corporate realms as she delves into impactful stories and experiences. Join in on our conversation with Monaè as she leaves us with a powerful vision for the beauty industry's future—a future where diversity is celebrated, and success knows no racial or cultural boundaries.

KEY POINTS 

– Monaè's ‘The Crown Act’ and its goal of creating a respectful world for natural hair

– Reasons why hair is a significant personal identity for women

– Examples of discriminatory workplace policies

– Advice to aspiring beauty leaders: maintain diverse portfolios & promote inclusivity

– Common challenges in the beauty industry 

– The importance of diverse leadership and brand representation 

– Some executive-level leaders Monaè appreciates

– Monaè's definition of thriving and advocacy on the need for continued efforts toward inclusivity

– The value of having positive representations in the beauty industry.

QUOTABLES 

“Blonde, brunette, and one of these others to fit in. It's to your point that every culture has different nuances, and different things that they consider to be beautiful. For us, we're fighting within minorities and also against the majority at the same time.” — Monaè Everett

“Diversity is good for business, and there are many different dimensions of diversity." — Brittany Cole

GUEST INFORMATION

Monaè Everett

IG | @monaeartistry

LinkedIn | @monaeeverett

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IG | @CareerThrivers

Brittany Cole 

IG | @BrittanyNCole 

LinkedIn | @BrittanyNCole 

Career Thrivers produced by EPYC Media Network