Hey guys I am sorry for the delay with the SisterPreneur posts. I know how much you enjoy hearing from other women entrepreneurs, I am going to do better! I had a chance to meet Nina Ellis aka Beautiful Brown Baby Doll a couple of months ago at a Chicago natural hair event. I was super excited because I subscribe to her YouTube channel and couldn’t wait to meet her in person. She is a sweetie pie, super professional and speaks from her heart! Check out the interview.When did you start your YouTube channel?
My site started in the fall of 2008. However, I really did not start to post many videos until 2009.
What inspired you to start the YouTube channel?
I had gone through many transformations in my life, including a 100 pound weight loss, and I had gone natural. I wanted to offer people motivation as I went through my journey and show them that the impossible as we see it, is definitely possible!
How did you come up with the name Beautiful Brown Baby Doll?
I’ve always been told I favor a porcelain doll. However, I’m 3 Dimensional, hence (3)B, (1)D. Dolls, though pretty, go through a lot. They are played with, broken and sometimes mistreated, but most of them (the great ones) stand the test of time with much history to pass along. That is my testimony. I have gone through much and this helps to motivated those that feel hopeless.
How was the response you received, negative or positive?
It was both. However, my web presence spread like wild fire, so I decided that I was going to remain positive despite ANY negative response.
What is the most exciting opportunity that has come your way as a result of your YT channel?
There have been several. I have been a face of the Jamaica Mango and Lime products appearing in Essence, Hype Hair, Sister to Sister and other publications. I was named one of YouTube’s Top 5 Natural Hair Care Vloggers by the Huffington post I have also made guest appearances at natural hair meet-ups across the country!
Why do you think YT is so popular for people interested in learning about natural hair?
It’s simple, easy and diverse. People are VERY visual, and somehow, seeing hair grow and being styled, motivates them to desire that as well.
What is your profession?
I am a doctorate level psychologist and professor at a Texas University. I teach doctoral students in school and behavioral psychology (Stephen F. Austin State University).
What are your top 3 suggestions you give to someone looking to make blogging/vlogging a full time business?
I would focus on your passion. I would also keep up with current events. Start how you want to finish. People like sincerity and can sense when you don’t really have a passion about what you do.
What or who has helped contribute to your success the most? goal setting, networking, God, family member etc.
Of course God! My mother has also been a major support system. She has taught me that I can do what I want to do. She has taught me that I can apply myself and be successful. Furthermore, you must keep your professional goals in perspective (long and short-term). Also, keep collaboration in mind! Don’t be afraid to work with other people.
What suggestions do you have for folks looking to monetize their online presence?
I would say, stay positive and motivated. Don’t allow negative feed-back to stop you. Realize that you won’t be the favorite of everyone, but again, follow that passion.
What are your hobbies?
I rap, sing, play piano, braid hair and mentor many people.
Married/Single/Children?
I am very much single.
What is the future vision/ projects for Beautiful Brown Baby Doll?
I have several Natural Hair meet-ups in the works. I will also be teaming up with some other big name YouTubers for some events. I will be real easing my work-out DVD this fall. I also plan to re-release my hair product line this fall. Make sure that you keep up with me here.
Love the article Rachel. Keep going girl!
Thanks Kelly appreciate your encouragement.
Love it!