Shani Darden is a celebrity esthetician and Founder of Shani Darden Skin Care, a line of high-performing, effective skin care products. Shani trained as an esthetician under a leading dermatologist and eventually went out on her own years later. She developed a passion for creating products she could not find, sending clients home with custom-made formulas between visits. Shani built her Studio and her reputation as one of the most in-demand estheticians in the world and is the go-to skin pro for celebrities like Kelly Rowland and Jessica Alba. In this week’s episode, we talk about Shani’s non-linear path. After relocating to LA with dreams of pursuing a modeling career, she quickly discovered that the glitzy world of fashion and modeling didn't align with her true aspirations. It was through a series of many twists and turns that she found her calling to become an aesthetician.During our conversation, Shani offers a glimpse into the intricacies of her products and shares insights from her time as a receptionist - a job she was in for years while going to school and learning invaluable lessons along the way. She opens up about the humble beginnings when launching her widely successful Retinol Reform serum from her living groom and how she eventually paved her way into the shelves of Sephora. We talk about all things entrepreneurship, how she built her brand, and of course - we end on all her biggest skincare tips and tricks, especially when it comes to acne. In this episode, we’ll talk to Shani about:* Staying true to her beliefs and not allowing people to lead her astray. [02:44]* Shani’s upbringing and how it impacted the woman she is today. [04:00]* Shani's modeling and music video journey. [06:43]* Shani's growing interest in skincare and her path to entering the industry. [7:51]* Lessons from her time as a spa receptionist. [09:22]* Getting fired, getting out of school, and working with a dermatologist. [10:46]* Meeting her celebrity client, Jessica Alba, and the story of their friendship. [14:08]* Launching her first skincare product and Shani’s love for retinol. [17:19]* Challenges in building her brand. [19:26]* The relationship with Sephora and its evolution over the years. [23:05]* Highlights of having her own studio and space. [26:33]* The positive impact of the COVID Pandemic to her business. [27:48]* Shani's social media guidance for people. [29:12]* Shani’s tips for people with acne-prone skin. [30:19]* The different kinds of skin types. [33:03]* Shani's product recommendations for scarring and acne. [34:05]* Initiating a women's mentorship program. [37:50]* Dealing with impostor syndrome as the brand's face. [40:14]* The evolution of Shani's online presence. [41:52]* Shani’s greatest achievements in her life. [43:25]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIREFollow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Shani:* Website: https://www.shanidarden.com/ * Shani's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanidarden/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.