The Nature of the Business: A Conversation with YGN CEO & COO

In this inaugural episode of "The Nature of the Business," a podcast by YGN (You Go Natural), we sit down with the company's founders, Monique and David, to discuss the origins of the brand, their personal journeys, and the driving forces behind their innovative hair accessory company. As siblings and business partners, Monique and David offer unique insights into the world of entrepreneurship and the challenges and triumphs of building a family-owned, community-driven brand.

Meet the Founders

Monique, the CEO and founder of YGN, was born and raised in New Jersey. After graduating from Rutgers University with a degree in Business Economics, she discovered her passion for entrepreneurship, realizing that she and her family have always been "terrible at working for other people." Over the past seven years, YGN has become an integral part of Monique's life and professional growth.

David, the COO of YGN and Monique's brother, focuses on marketing, brand strategy, and partnerships. With a background in supporting cause-driven brands, David is passionate about helping YGN grow in a way that aligns with its core values and mission.

The Birth of YGN

In 2016, Monique found herself struggling to maintain her natural hair care regimen after the birth of her first child. She began wrapping her hair but found the process cumbersome and the results unsatisfactory. Monique realized that she wasn't alone in her frustrations and saw an opportunity to create a product that would make the experience easier and more enjoyable for herself and others in the natural hair community.

With an entrepreneurial spirit and a little extra time on her hands, Monique began stitching satin-lined head wraps in her living room. To her surprise, people responded positively to her product, with many commenting, "Where has this been all my life?" The pre-tied, satin-lined head wraps addressed a genuine need within the natural hair community, and YGN was born.

Serving a Diverse Customer Base

As YGN grew, so did its product line and customer base. While initially focusing on head wraps for women with natural hair, the company expanded to offer sleep products for all hair types and fashionable turbans for men. YGN's customers are united by their desire to care for and protect their hair while looking stylish.

Monique and David acknowledge the challenges of serving such a diverse audience, particularly when it comes to marketing. However, they have learned to find commonalities among their customers and tell a cohesive brand story that resonates with their target audience.

The Importance of Authenticity and Community

YGN's success is rooted in its authenticity and commitment to the community it serves. Monique and David fondly remember their "day ones," the early customers who supported the brand from its humble beginnings. These customers were invested in supporting a woman of color who was starting something new, even if the initial products weren't perfect.

As YGN has grown, the founders have remained dedicated to creating a positive work environment for their employees and fostering a sense of community among their customers. Monique's North Star as CEO is to create a workspace that serves and supports the people within it, providing a safe space for growth and development.

Misconceptions and Realities of Entrepreneurship

Monique and David discuss the common misconceptions people have about entrepreneurship and YGN. One misconception is that YGN is a large, impersonal operation that simply outsources production and shipping. In reality, the company is a tight-knit team of hardworking individuals who pour their hearts into creating and delivering high-quality, innovative products.

Another misconception is that entrepreneurship is easy or glamorous. The founders emphasize that building a successful business requires blood, sweat, and tears from everyone involved. Monique credits the support of her family and employees for keeping her motivated during challenging times, recognizing that their collective effort is what drives the company forward.

The Value of Sharing Ideas

As siblings and business partners, Monique and David rarely take the time to discuss the philosophical aspects of their work or the driving forces behind their decisions. Through "The Nature of the Business" podcast, they hope to engage in meaningful conversations with each other and their listeners, sharing ideas and learning from one another's experiences.

The founders believe that sharing ideas is just as valuable as discussing the nuts and bolts of running a business. By opening up about their journey, they aim to inspire and educate others who may be considering entrepreneurship or facing similar challenges.

Looking Ahead

As the first episode of "The Nature of the Business" comes to a close, Monique and David express their excitement for the future of the podcast and the opportunities it presents for growth and connection. They invite listeners to join them on this journey, offering a glimpse into the world of YGN and the people behind the brand.

In the episodes to come, Monique and David will delve deeper into their personal backgrounds, the lessons they've learned as entrepreneurs, and the strategies they've employed to build a successful, community-driven business. Through honest and engaging conversations, they hope to create a space where listeners can find inspiration, guidance, and a sense of camaraderie in the shared experience of entrepreneurship.

For anyone who has ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at YGN or how the brand has evolved over the years, "The Nature of the Business" offers a unique and intimate look at the company and its founders. As Monique and David continue to innovate and grow, they remain committed to the core values that have guided YGN from the beginning: authenticity, community, and a passion for creating products that truly make a difference in people's lives.