Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jaé Joseph . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jaé , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me has taught me to lean into my unique perspective and see it as an advantage. I’ve learned that my background and experiences bring insights others might not consider, and I’ve come to recognize that’s often exactly what’s needed to create meaningful impact.
To be effective, I focus on showing up as authentically as possible, using my voice to contribute something valuable and distinct. Over time, I’ve developed a communication style that resonates across diverse groups, balancing assertiveness with empathy. I’ve learned to listen actively, align my goals with the team’s, and seek out common ground, even when our experiences don’t completely overlap. By doing so, I’ve gained respect, not only for my perspective but for my work as a whole.
Setting clear boundaries has also been key for me. It reminds me — and the people around me — of the respect I deserve. This approach has strengthened my resilience, adaptability, and self-confidence, making each step forward not just a personal achievement but a way to encourage greater inclusivity in every space I enter.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Jaé Joseph, and my focus has always been about blending creativity and purpose into everything I do. Currently, I’m developing my brand, BAO Essentials, which is dedicated to bringing quality and wellness to everyday life through natural products. For me, creating this brand is not only about the products themselves but about promoting a lifestyle that encourages self-care and connection to nature.
What excites me most is how BAO Essentials connects people to sustainable, nourishing products, like our upcoming new formulas that are more clean. It’s a small way to inspire a holistic approach to wellness that people can incorporate daily.
Beyond BAO Essentials, I’m actively involved in creative projects that let me build connections, elevate narratives, and use my platform for meaningful change. Being a creative consultant gives me an incredible opportunity to collaborate with diverse creators, especially as Art Basel approaches. I’m excited to create experiences and content that capture and celebrate the city’s vibrant energy and cultural richness.
At the heart of it, my work is about storytelling — whether through a product, a brand, or a collaboration. My goal is to resonate with people in a way that’s both authentic and impactful, creating value and inspiring others to see the beauty in blending art and wellness with a sense of purpose.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful for me are:
1. Adaptability:I’ve learned that being open to change and willing to pivot when necessary has been crucial. Embracing new challenges and learning from setbacks has helped me build resilience. My advice for others is to seek out diverse experiences and not shy away from stepping outside your comfort zone. This mindset has prepared me for unexpected shifts along the way.
2. Networking and Relationship Building: Cultivating meaningful connections has opened doors and provided invaluable support throughout my career. Building a strong professional network has enhanced my collaboration and access to resources. For those just starting out, I encourage you to attend events, engage on social media, and reach out to mentors. Focus on building authentic relationships rather than just transactional ones; it can make all the difference.
3. Continuous Learning: Staying curious and committed to personal growth has been essential for me. I always seek new knowledge, skills, and perspectives to enhance my understanding. My advice here is to dedicate time to read, take courses, or find mentorship opportunities. Embrace feedback and use it as a tool for improvement—it’s helped me tremendously.
For anyone early in their journey, I encourage you to prioritize these areas. Growth is a gradual process, so set specific, achievable goals and be patient with yourself as you develop these qualities.
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?
I have to say undoubtedly The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz was a transformative read for me for several reasons:
1. Clarity and Simplicity: The agreements—be impeccable with my word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do my best—are straightforward and easy to grasp. This simplicity helped me internalize profound concepts without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Personal Empowerment: The book empowered me to take responsibility for my thoughts and actions. Embracing these agreements allowed me to feel more in control of my life and decisions, leading to a greater sense of fulfillment.
3. Spiritual Growth: As I navigated my journey of self-discovery, the teachings resonated deeply with me. They helped me align my actions with my values and beliefs, fostering a clearer sense of purpose.
4. Interpersonal Relationships: Implementing these principles has improved my relationships significantly. By reducing conflict and misunderstandings, I’ve been able to communicate more effectively and create more harmonious connections with those around me.
5. *Mindfulness and Presence: The emphasis on awareness encouraged me to be more present in my daily life. Practicing mindfulness has helped me manage stress and cultivate a more positive outlook.
6. Practical Application: I found the insights incredibly practical. They apply to various situations in my life, helping me navigate challenges with a clearer perspective.
Overall, The Four Agreements offered me a valuable framework for living authentically and fulfilling my potential, and it has had a lasting impact on my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: baouniverse.shop
- Instagram: @jaejoseph
- Other: Brand Instagram: @bao.skin
Image Credits
Jaé Joseph Studio
