We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Kristian Edwards recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Kristian , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from a lifetime of realizing just how powerful my own mind is. At some point I recognized that my thoughts shape my reality—what I choose to focus on, how I interpret a setback, and whether I let something disturb my peace. Every mistake, challenge, or even tragedy became less of a punishment and more of a classroom. I learned to ask, “What is this here to teach me?” instead of “Why is this happening to me?”
A big part of that grounding comes from my meditation practice, which trained me to witness my thoughts rather than be ruled by them. Another part comes from the little girl in third grade who started a business because she saw a problem and believed she could fix it. That belief wasn’t random—it was planted early. My parents loved me in such an unconditional, expansive way that I grew up assuming I could do anything I set my mind to. That kind of foundation builds a spine.
And honestly? I’ve also learned the magic of simply deciding not to be bothered. When I choose not to give something power over me, I feel it lose its grip. That choice—over and over again—has become one of my quiet superpowers. My resilience isn’t about being unshaken; it’s about knowing I can return to myself quickly, fully, and with a lesson in hand.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m the founder of BLK + GRN (produced Black and green). What I do, at its core, is bridge wellness, culture, and community. I get to champion 85 incredible Black women–owned brands and make it easier for people to choose healthier products without sacrificing luxury, beauty, or results.
What excites me most is knowing that every purchase on our platform isn’t just a transaction—it’s a transfer of power. It keeps dollars circulating in our community, it grows generational wealth for our artisans, and it helps women lead healthier, more intentional lives. That ripple effect still gives me chills.
I also love that my work blends science, storytelling, and care. My background in public health guides everything—from ingredient vetting to consumer education—while my heart stays anchored in creating a space where Black women can see themselves reflected, celebrated, and supported.
Right now, BLK + GRN is in a season of beautiful expansion. We’re evolving our model to create more visibility and revenue opportunities for our artisans, strengthening our digital community, and building new offerings that go beyond personal care into holistic wellness. We’ve grown our podcast, our instagram presence, and our blog, all with one goal: helping women live happier, healthier, more empowered lives.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three things shaped my journey more than anything else: curiosity, courage, and community-building.
First, curiosity has always been my engine. I’m the person who wants to know why something works, how it can work better, and why not try a different way. That mindset pushed me to research ingredients, learn business strategy, understand consumer behavior, and just keep expanding my own capacity. For anyone early in their journey: protect your curiosity. Read widely, ask questions that feel “too big,” and let yourself chase ideas even if they don’t lead anywhere right away. Curiosity compounds.
Second, courage—quiet courage, not the loud, dramatic kind—was essential. Starting anything meaningful requires you to move before you feel ready. I had to make decisions without certainty, take risks without guarantees, and learn from the times I missed the mark. If you’re just beginning, the best way to build courage is through small, consistent action. Every little step you take teaches your brain, “I can do hard things.” That confidence accumulates.
Third, everything I’ve built has been rooted in community. BLK + GRN isn’t just a marketplace; it’s a collective of artisans, customers, and supporters who believe in investing in Black women’s wellness. Learning how to nurture relationships—with partners, artisans, customers, and my team—has been one of my most powerful skills. My advice: be generous with your support, stay transparent in your communication, and think long-term about the people you’re building with. Success becomes a shared experience.
Those three qualities—curiosity, courage, and community—have guided every chapter of my journey. And the beautiful thing is, anyone can intentionally grow them. They’re not innate; they’re cultivated.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One book that played a major role in my development is “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. I read it at a time when I was trying to figure out how to protect my peace, stay aligned with my purpose, and not get thrown off by every curveball life sent my way. A few of the nuggets that really stuck with me:
“Don’t take anything personally.”
This one changed my whole operating system. It taught me that most of what people project has everything to do with them and almost nothing to do with me. The moment I stopped internalizing other people’s moods, reactions, or limitations, I felt lighter—and I could move faster.
“Be impeccable with your word.”
This reminded me that my words are active forces; they shape how I think, how I show up, and how others experience me. It pushed me to speak with intention—whether I’m advocating for artisans, leading my team, or even talking to myself.
“Don’t make assumptions.”
This one saved me from so much unnecessary stress. I learned to ask, to clarify, to confirm. It made me a better leader, partner, and communicator.
“Always do your best.”
This helped me release perfectionism. My “best” on a Tuesday during a storm is different from my “best” on a sunny Saturday after a good night’s sleep—and that’s okay. What matters is showing up with integrity.
Overall, the book helped me shift from reacting to life to consciously choosing how I want to experience it. It strengthened my resilience, sharpened my self-awareness, and deepened my commitment to living intentionally. It’s one of those books that grows with you—you read it again years later, and it still reveals something new.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blkgrn.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blkandgrn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blkandgrn/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blk-grn
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/blkandgrn/
Image Credits
Erika Layne
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