Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Raquel Medley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Raquel, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only Black woman in the room has empowered me to embrace my unique beauty and perspective. It’s a powerful reminder that diversity is a strength, not just in representation, but in the richness of experiences we bring. This visibility not only allows me to showcase my authentic self but also creates opportunities for others to learn and grow. I strive to foster a deeper understanding of our differences, sparking meaningful conversations that challenge stereotypes and inspire inclusivity. My presence is a celebration of resilience and an invitation for everyone to appreciate the beauty of diverse narratives.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I was a young girl with a passion for science, often found myself in the kitchen mixing olive oil and honey or coconut oil into my own hair care creations. Inspired by my struggles with severe dryness and atopic dermatitis, I dove deep into the science of skin. After becoming a licensed esthetician, I turned her childhood experiments into a mission, launching a natural skincare brand tailored for those with similar skin challenges. My carefully crafted products not only provided relief but also celebrated the beauty of diversity, proving that science and self-love can create transformative solutions. My skincare brand is Eden’s Elite beauty bar. I’m currently in the process of rebranding and coming up with new products. Follow me on Instagram @edenselitebeautybar.
No matter where I go I always meet someone new who almost always shares thoughts about their lives with me. “There’s something warm and safe about you” this woman recently told me. After she shared what was going on and asked my opinion, she asked what do I do for a living. “You’re easy to talk to.” This is why I became a health and lifestyle coach. Providing people with the tools to transform themselves into their best self, is such a reward.
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?
Scheduling “Me Time” – this was a game changer for me. It not just about saying “today is about me.” It’s about being intentional. Open your calendar plan your me time and enter it on the calendar. It’s real now! Stay committed to it. It’s helped me to love on me and learn something new about me. I look forward to me time because I always plan something different.
Taking care of my mental health – I was afraid of therapy because of the negative narratives within our community. I was crippled with fear and stifled with procrastination. With God all things are possible! Prayer, Gods word and therapy helped me. One of the areas this blossomed is overcoming the inability to say NO.
Here’s my advice. Write down 3 areas of your life or about you that you’d like to improve. Within the next 90 days practice them. Take 30 days for each area. You will thank yourself for this later.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
The power of tact by Peter lege. It’s a book I read every once in a while to remind me of how I respond to things matter. Controlling my emotions and thoughts matter. Having the ability to use words Witt the proper tone will always take you further than you know.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.edenselitebeauty.com
- Instagram: @edenselitbeautybar
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/raquelmedley
Image Credits
A. Phillips
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