Show Notes:
In this episode of the Beyond Beauty Podcast, host and guest Alisa Williams Carmichael, an investment partner at VMG Partners, discuss Alisa's career journey and insights into the beauty industry. Alisa shares her path from investment banking to venture capital, emphasizing the importance of long-term career planning, gaining valuable skills, and building relationships. She advises brands on attracting investors by fostering connections early and highlights the evolving beauty industry trends. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI, the significance of mentorship, and the necessity of self-care for personal and professional growth.
About Alisa:
Alisa (Williams) Carmichael is an Investment Partner at VMG Partners where she has worked across multiple branded consumer categories supporting the likes of: The Honey Pot Company, Drunk Elephant, Danessa Myricks Beauty, and many more.
Her passion for helping BIPOC-founded businesses thrive has always been core to her investment approach and inspired VMG Partner’s formation of The Parity Collective, an investment initiative focused on investing in founders of color across the consumer industry.
Timestamps:
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)
Overview of the Beyond Beauty Podcast and its mission to highlight industry talent.
Alisa Carmichael's Background (00:00:58)
Introduction of Alisa Carmichael, her role at VMG Partners, and her investment focus.
Career Journey (00:01:41)
Alisa shares her unexpected path into private equity and venture capital.
Investment Philosophy (00:04:30)
Discussion on how Alisa balances capital investment with operational advice for founders.
Evolution of the Beauty Industry (00:06:33)
Alisa reflects on the significant shifts in beauty and personal care over the past nine years.
Consumer-Driven Change (00:11:24)
The rise of niche communities in beauty and their impact on consumer engagement.
AI's Impact on Beauty (00:12:14)
Exploration of how AI is transforming creativity, product development, and consumer recommendations.
Advice on Career and Personal Growth (00:13:42)
Alisa shares her mantra on individuality and overcoming imposter syndrome.
Mentorship Philosophy (00:17:46)
Alisa discusses the importance of self-awareness in mentorship and her approach to building relationships.
Career Advice for Aspiring Investors (00:20:11)
Alisa shares strategic career advice for those wanting to transition into investing and venture capital.
Understanding Investment Relationships (00:22:10)
Alisa discusses the importance of clarity and relationship-building for brands seeking investment opportunities.
The Importance of Long-Term Perspective (00:23:35)
The speakers emphasize the need for patience and strategic planning in career development and investment seeking.
Self-Care for Working Moms (00:26:01)
Alisa reflects on the challenges of self-care while balancing motherhood and a demanding career.
Connecting with Alisa (00:27:45)
Alisa provides information on how listeners can connect with her through LinkedIn and Instagram.
This podcast is produced by the team at Dillie: a marketing agency with a niche focus on beauty and personal care brands.
https://dilliecreative.com/
