We were lucky to catch up with D Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.
D, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Being the only one in the room that looks like me happens more often than not in the nail industry, especially offering services and being a nail instructor. I remember a time when I was teaching a class. Another educator thought she could bully me while teaching my class, she thought she could take over or bring all the attention to herself. At that moment, I had to think but remain professional because I had a class of over 40 attendees. I gave her the attention she wanted. She realized that this was not her moment to teach my class. I asked her a thought-provoking question and she said nothing else. With that being said, I have learned to observe first and then provide informative and thought-provoking information/questions. By choosing to do this, it enables others to concentrate on what is being communicated rather than preconceived biases they may hold about my skin color. As a result, I am able to be my authentic self, productive, and successful without feeling the need to apologize.
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 am D. Smith, a finer woman of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Owner of Oshi the Nail Place. Oshi the Nail Place is northeast Florida’s only salon that offers non-invasive ingrown toenail treatment and is the #1 recommended nail salon by Podiatrists for waterless pedicures. I am not your ordinary nail technician. With 15-plus years of experience, I am a certified podiatry assistant and medical nail technician. I find joy in serving guests who may have had bad experiences in the past or have specific needs, such as diabetics who are usually advised against pedicures due to the risks. I provide customized services to meet their specific requirements. The most rewarding part of my job is witnessing the priceless reaction of guests who thought they would never enjoy pedicures again. I am proud to provide safe, specialized services to clients.
Education is a key aspect of my work. I am passionate about teaching clients the importance of sanitation in nail care. I know that many people put themselves at risk by ignoring unsanitary practices at regular nail salons. Most people are not aware that they are one pedicure away from contracting a fungus or may already have one. In addition to providing top-quality service, I also refer guests to trusted podiatrists if they need extra assistance. The Oshi Experience is diabetic-safe, and clients do not need to be diabetic to enjoy the Oshi Experience, we offer nail care as well.
Getting to know me outside of my professional life as a salon owner and educator, I’m an avid traveler. Most importantly, I have a great sense of humor and love to laugh! Even as a child, my grandmother would fuss at me for laughing too much, comparing me to a laughing hyena (whatever that is). Nonetheless, I still find joy in laughter – it’s good for the soul!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?If you want to succeed, embrace these three qualities: self-starting, confidence, and dependability. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don’t hesitate to take the lead. Even when you don’t think it shows, your confidence shines through. Be unapologetically you and don’t wait for anyone else to initiate or take action. Remember, progress is key, and with each step, you’ll become more prepared for future opportunities. Most importantly, be reliable. Your reputation for following through on commitments can be a major factor in advancing your career.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?.
If you are interested becoming a client you can visit oshisalon.com or call 904-701-1482 to schedule your experience or ask questions.
If you are looking to create the Oshi Spa Lounge Experience for your employees, has us vend at your upcoming event or provide education you can call or email info@oshisalon.com
Lastly, I am always looking to work with other businesses such as podiatrist, wellness clinics, hospitals, local business, non- profit organizations ect. Please send over an email. I look forward to collaborating and providing self- care customized treatments.
Contact Info:
- Website: oshisalon.com
- Instagram: Oshisalon
- Facebook: Oshi Salon
- Other: email: info@oshisalon.com phone: 904-701-1482
