The Kickback With Keri

04/06/2025

Where can you go to feel seen, safe and celebrated?

Lisa Brown Alexander and her husband love to travel but often found that the more luxurious a space was, the more unwelcome they felt.

So they decided to create their own oasis, a culturally relevant safe haven where travelers, particularly travelers of color, could enjoy a luxurious experience without compromise.

During the last episode of season 2, Lisa shares her inspiring journey of building Wellspring Manor & Spa with her husband, a Black-owned luxury bed & breakfast retreat tucked away in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, rooted in excellence and cultural celebration.

In this episode, dive deep into:

- Why Prince George’s County, MD is the perfect location for a luxury B&B
- Overcoming resistance from neighbors and how to build community trust
- Art, food and musical events that differentiate Wellspring from other B&B estates
- Understanding hospitality seasonal fluctuations and the conscious consumer
- The motto Lisa lives by and the lessons learned that have helped Wellspring grow in the last 7 years

Want to hear the full story?

📺 Watch our conversation here: https://youtu.be/p5V3C5yNBZ8
🎧 Listen here: https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/wellspring-manor-spa

For this episode, we filmed at Wellspring Manor & Spa. Ever wall is covered in art and when you walk through the front door, you feel like you’re at home. If you’re looking for a place to wind down, Wellspring is the place to be.

27/05/2025

Did you know the braiding hair you use could be poisoning you?

Dangerous chemicals, that may cause cancer, were detected in 100% of the braiding hair tested by Consumer Reports this year.

If you’re like me, you’ve been wearing braids since you were a kid. That means, we’ve been exposing ourselves to chemicals for DECADES. That also means some of us have been experiencing allergic reactions for decades too.

Kadidja Dosso had an allergic reaction to braids and wanted to know if she was the only one. After launching a poll online, 200 people responded within 24 hours saying they had the same experience. In that moment, she knew we needed something different; something organic and safe.

In this week’s episode, Kadidja shares her personal journey from experiencing an allergic reaction to creating the first clinically-tested, non-toxic braiding hair brand Dosso Beauty. We dive deep into the myths surrounding hair washing techniques, the health risks facing both consumers and professional braiders, and the future of the clean braiding hair industry.

⛓️‍💥 Breaking The Toxic Hair Cycle

The problem extends beyond just the consumers. Kadidja emphasizes how hairstylists who work with these products daily are at even greater risk. She shares the story of a hairstylist diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis after 30 years of exposure to chemicals from relaxers and other hair products.

💆🏾‍♀️The Myth About Washing Braiding Hair

We love to wash braiding hair before an install but this practice doesn't address the root problem and often makes the hair harder to work with, requiring braiders to use additional products that may also contain harmful chemicals.

🔬 The Science Behind The Claims

Dosso Beauty has invested in clinical trials to back up their claims. They've tested their products for lead, mercury, VOCs, and other toxic carcinogens. The clinical trial results are publicly available on their website, providing the transparency that conscious consumers demand.

Ready to hear the full story?

📺 Watch our conversation here: https://lnkd.in/eHc6Kz6p
🎧 Listen here: https://lnkd.in/eKiVfe8s

If you've ever experienced itching, irritation, or reactions from braiding hair, you're not alone. And now, thanks to pioneers like Kadidja, we don't have to accept toxic products as the norm.

22/05/2025

Often times, businesses are born out of a personal need.

In Camille Hardy's case, she and her community of parents wanted fresh, organic, delicious baby food for their little ones. When they couldn't find it, Camille found herself making baby food not only for her son but for her community.

In this week's episode of The Kickback With Keri podcast, I sit down with Camille to explore the evolution of Chunky Vegan, her groundbreaking baby food company that's changing the industry one farm-fresh meal at a time.

But this isn't just a business story – it's a masterclass in understanding what's really in our food and how to make truly healthy choices for ourselves and our families.

Camille shares her entrepreneurial journey, why she sources ingredients directly from local farms, the surprising secondary market that's fallen in love with her products, and hard truths about food that we're never told:

🍓Food Labels and The Truth About Organic Food

One of the most eye-opening parts of our conversation was when Camille decoded the secret language of produce labels. Did you know thatcertain numbers on food stickers indicate different growing methods? And that "organic" certification (in the US) still permit certain levels of chemicals?

❌Myths About Plant-Based Foods

When I asked about common misconceptions, Camille didn't hesitate: "All plant-based food is healthy. This simply isn't true." Many plant-based products contain highly processed ingredients that make them no healthier than their conventional counterparts.

🧓🏾Unexpected Market Expansion

While Chunky Vegan was created for little ones, the company has discovered an enthusiastic new audience – seniors. During trade shows, they've received significant interest from retirement community executives looking to bring nutritious, easy-to-eat options to their residents.

🤝🏾Accessibility For All

When I asked Camille where she sees Chunky Vegan in the next three years, her answer reflected her passion for accessibility and health equity. Her measure of success will be having Chunky Vegan accessible to all families, regardless of economic status.

Ready to hear the full story?

📺 Watch our conversation here: https://youtu.be/Pd63ClEbOzQ
🎧 Listen here: https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/camille-hardy-chunky-vegan

Whether you're a parent, a health-conscious individual, or simply someone who wants to understand what's really in your food, this episode delivers invaluable knowledge that will transform how you shop and eat.

06/05/2025

🎙New alert!

I’ve known Andrew Roby Events for years and have witnessed the evolution of his business.

And this week, we’re talking about it all.

From serving in the army to running an elite event planning business, Andrew’s story is a masterclass in reinvention, purpose-driven business, and storytelling through experiences.

In this episode of The Kickback With Keri podcast, Andrew opens up about:

✨ Navigating the transition from military to entrepreneurship
✨ His strategic pivot that accelerated his business
✨ The business fundamentals every creative entrepreneur should know
✨ His unique approach to storytelling through event experiences

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, event professional, or simply someone who appreciates a powerful story of reinvention, this conversation offers valuable insights on building a business that reflects your passion and values while delivering exceptional results.

Check out the episode here: https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/andrew-roby-events

29/04/2025

🎙Do you have a plan? 👀

This week I’m kicking back with Meredith Hill, Founder and Principal Attorney of The Hill Law Group

We chatted about a topic with profound implications for generational wealth: estate planning.

From understanding the differences between wills and trusts to breaking common myths, this conversation is packed with practical advice you didn’t know you needed.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ Why everyone needs an estate plan (yes, even if you’re young)

✅ The biggest mistakes people make with wills and trusts

✅ The peace of mind that comes with getting your financial life together

✅ How Meredith left her government job to build a thriving law practice

And more!

After this episode, you’ll feel empowered, informed and ready to get your paperwork in order.

I know I did!

Check out the episode here: https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/meredith-hill-estate-planning

22/04/2025

🎙Let’s talk all things skincare.

I had a time kicking back with my esthetician Cameron Cooper, owner of Skin By Cam, LLC

In this eye-opening conversation, Cameron shares some of the stereotypes he faced as a male esthetician in a female-dominated industry when he launched his business five years ago, while also sharing invaluable skincare wisdom that cuts through marketing noise.

You’ll learn the common myths and mistakes he sees clients making when it comes to skincare and some of them may surprise you!

You’ll also discover:
✅ The skincare essentials you need (it’s fewer than you think!)
✅ Specific advice for men who typically overlook proper skincare
✅ When it’s time to seek professional treatments
✅ Advice for fellow estheticians who are starting their own businesses

And so much more!

As Cameron emphasizes, consistency to skincare is key!

Results don't happen overnight, but the right routine can transform your skin.

🎬 Watch our full conversation on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rypPRc8CCNU

🎧 Listen here: https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/skin-by-cam

18/04/2025

Your health is your wealth.

When we talk about health, we often focus primarily on physical metrics: weight, blood pressure, fitness levels.

But what about the full spectrum of factors that contribute to our wellbeing?

Melanie Smith is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.

But what exactly does that mean?

Check out this clip for a description on all that encompasses integrative nutrition health coaching.

It’s less clinical instruction and more of a compassionate partnership.

Whether you're trying to establish a consistent movement practice or transition from your day job to pursuing your passion full-time, the whole-person approach acknowledges that sustainable change requires addressing all dimensions of who we are.

What aspects of your wellbeing have you been neglecting in the pursuit of success? How might taking an integrative approach shift your relationship with both your health and your goals?

Watch the video on YouTube here: https://lnkd.in/e-3FvTv3

Or listen 🎧here: https://lnkd.in/ecZdGQ6V

14/04/2025

🎙️ And just like that we’re back for season 2 of The Kickback With Keri podcast!

I'm kicking things off with Melanie Smith, an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Pharmacist, and Group Fitness Instructor.

I know this conversation is going to be a blessing...

Especially for those who are navigating an unhealthy work environment while also knowing your purpose is bigger than your current situation.

I remember when Melanie posted online last year that she had decided to make a bold leap from corporate life to full-entrepreneurship.

What I didn’t know was all that she went through that led to that decision.

In this week’s episode, Melanie shares how microaggressions in the workplace, a supportive therapist, and a strong sense of purpose led her to build a wellness brand focused on helping others thrive in their bodies and minds.

From navigating imposter syndrome to now hosting international wellness retreats, Melanie’s story is a reminder that the life you desire is on the other side of your comfort zone.

Subscribe to my newsletter to be notified when this episode drops! https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast

18/02/2025

Have you ever questioned if you can be yourself at work?

One of the common themes Naana Badu encounters when working with clients is this idea of asking for permission.

Women seeking permission to be who they are.

In a world that wants to diminish our light, Naana is on a mission to help women of color use style to be their bold and authentic selves.

We sit down to talk about her journey from corporate to styling, why investing in personal style is important, how fashion impacts career advancement and so much more!

If you’re ready to elevate your personal brand and own the rooms you walk in, this episode is for you!

Watch here: https://youtu.be/jNuLE9Q2RAA

06/02/2025

Community isn’t just about visibility, it’s about value. Social media gives access, but true engagement comes from solving a real pain point for a specific audience. Start niche, build with intention, and create a space people want to return to over and over again.

04/02/2025

🎙️A new episode of The Kickback With Keri podcast is now live!

This week I’m sitting down with my longtime friend and business bestie Krystin Hargrove 😊

When Krystin first launched CoTripper, her goal was to host group travel for single moms.

But during COVID, she quickly realized that single mothers needed more.

Not only did they want to travel but they wanted and needed community.

They needed a space to be seen, heard and respected.

Through CoTripper, Krystin has been able to create a space the empowers single moms through travel and community.

And gives them the freedom to redefine single motherhood on their own terms.

If you’re a single mom looking to connect with other moms or a business owner who wants to learn how to create your own community away from social media, this episode is for you!

Join us for the conversation here https://youtu.be/t0v14kY-6EM

Or listen 🎧here https://www.kerihenderson.com/podcast/cotripper-empowering-single-moms

20/11/2024