How do you balance the unique voices and audiences of Allure and SELF while leading both brands as editor-in-chief?

The beautiful thing about these two brands – Allure & SELF – is that they have some overlap in audience. People who love beauty are often also keenly in tune with their health, and vice versa. However, it is important to me that we maintain the unique voices of each of these iconic titles. So, the writers on my team work solely on SELF or only on Allure. This makes sure that each brand is getting the special attention and unique expertise that it deserves. As the editor in chief of both, I am able to learn and share between both of the teams. 

What first drew you to the beauty industry and what has made you stay? 

I was drawn to beauty because it felt like a topic that I could make an impact as a Southern Black woman with natural hair. At the time I entered the industry, there was still plenty of rooms where I was the only woman of color. That meant that I had an opportunity to tell stories of women like myself who were largely underrepresented in mainstream publications. I also felt that beauty was so accessible. Brushing your teeth every day is performing beauty, and you can do it with a $5 toothbrush from the drugstore or a $200 electric toothbrush. 

You’ve spoken about nurturing self-belief to combat imposter syndrome. How do you create a culture that helps high-performing women lean into their strengths without self-doubt?

I often tell my direct reports, “I trust you” and “I support you.”  It’s my cue to them that they can act independently. With my senior team, we have worked together long enough that they know my preferences, so I don’t need to be read in on every little thing. Sometimes you just need to hear the boss say, “you got this!” I also let them know that I will always back them up. Because I trust their judgement, they have to know that I will come in and be “mama bear” when needed. I am truly fortunate to work around some smart women who are experts in their fields. It creates a support network where everyone can shine and lean into their strengths – including me. I also am all about giving credit where credit is due. I want to be the type of boss who advocates for them and their ideas when they are not in the room. I don’t need to take all the credit. I have great ideas, so I have no need to steal others. 

Do you have one secret to your success?

I’m good at my job. I know that isn't the humble thing to say. However, people often forget that being good at the work is the most important part of being successful. A lot of people get jobs in the media industry based on recommendations. In order to get someone’s approval and attention, you have to be outstanding. I’ve been fortunate that my good work has been recognized and heralded by others. That reputation of being good has gotten me to where I am today. 

Who is a woman you admire?

I just wrote a cover story about Tracee Ellis Ross for SELF. I am so inspired by the way she cares for herself. In my life, self care falls to the very bottom of my to-do list. However, Tracee makes caring for her mental, physical and emotional health a daily task. That is the consistency I aspire to. Plus, she is a single woman who built the exact life she wants. 

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

There’s an app called Copilot that I check every day. I am obsessed with personal finance (to the point where my therapist is a bit concerned). This app tracks all my investments, high yield savings, my real estate valuation, and my daily expenses. It helps me stay on track with my financial goals. 

What is one big trend you’re excited about in 2025?

There is a lot of chatter about the “loneliness epidemic” but in some cases people are pouring into themselves. I love to see when women are embracing time with themselves! They are  getting hobbies, going on trips solo, and investing in their own growth. That is what I love to see! In fact, I am writing a book all about it called Single Happy Female. 

What book or film/show has been the most impactful in your career or life?

I will give a shoutout to the book I am currently recommending to everyone: The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. I bought this book begrudgingly because it was getting so much hype online. However, after reading a few chapters, I do feel the concept is freeing. I have been telling myself and everyone in my life to “let them and let me.”