“What’s different about LAB is we have taken into consideration not just data but stories from people,” says Jannice Newson

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Guest Name: Jannice Newson

Guest Business:  Lillian Augusta Beauty

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Black Businesses Matter Podcast, we chat with Jannice Newson, social entrepreneur and Co-Founder & CEO of Lillian Augusta Beauty, a company creating plant-based hair extensions that merge beauty and sustainability.

Jannice takes us back to her childhood on the West Side of Chicago, reflecting on the experiences that sparked her early interest in environmental science. A quiet, sporty child, she went on to earn degrees in Environmental Science and Conservation Ecology, focusing her research on wetlands and agro-ecosystems.

Her work in environmental and agricultural landscapes revealed a personal challenge when traditional braiding hair often caused allergic reactions. That experience inspired her to develop a safer, plant-based alternative. While studying at the University of Michigan, she used campus resources to pitch her idea and secure funding for Lillian Augusta Beauty (LAB), a name chosen to honor her grandmother, the family matriarch who paved the way for their success.

Jannice walks us through the process of developing the product, conducting market research, and ensuring that the voice of the consumer remained central to every step.

If you’re passionate about sustainability, innovation, or redefining beauty through purpose, this episode is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT…

1. What was he like as a child?
2. His inspiration for LAB beauty.  
3. How do we help women to not normalize discomfort?
4. how hard is it to get people to transition to plant based hair? 
5. BBM Brag Moment   
6. What brings them joy? 
7. Why do black businesses matter? 

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Connect with them

Connect with them on their website : 

http://hairwithoutharm.com

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