Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

I’m inspired by three things: science, skin professionals, and visionary women in beauty. As founder of TOPICAL SKIN, I look up to pioneers like Helena Rubinstein, the rigor of dermatologists and estheticians I collaborate with, and the constant evolution of skin science. That intersection of female-led innovation, clinical insight, and biotech-driven discovery is what guides every business decision I make.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by staying close to my “why”: helping skincare professionals deliver real, science-backed skin results. Hearing feedback from dermatologists, estheticians, and customers, protecting time for deep work and learning, and celebrating small wins—like a launch on Nordstrom.com—keeps me focused and energized, even when the work is demanding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25K, I'd execute a high-ROI growth strategy for the brand: 40% towards R&D for 2 new pro-focused formulas (clinically validated); 30% to digital infrastructure—hire ops marketer + digital expert for website optimization, email automation, paid social/media to acquire new customers; 20% to hire additional 1099 reps for med spa + derm channel penetration; 10% to tradeshows activations + sampling to increase brand authority, bring scalable revenue streams, pro loyalty, and DTC momen