Shontay Lundy's Journey: From Self-Care to Building Black Girl Sunscreen

Video Timestamps

00:05:40 "Making Big Decisions in Life"
00:07:13 Cancer Survivor on Taking Time for Yourself
00:11:37 Black Girl Sunscreen: Creating a Market that Doesn't Exist
00:15:02 Black Girl Sunscreen: Prioritizing Funds
00:19:15 How to Scale Your Business?

Unveiling the Journey of Shontay Lundy, Founder of Black Girl Sunscreen

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur with a vision to create something groundbreaking? Shontay Lundy, the visionary founder of Black Girl Sunscreen, has a story that will inspire and empower you. In our recent podcast episode, Shontay shares her incredible journey from corporate America to the beauty industry. Here are some key takeaways from her remarkable story:

1. Discovering a Gap in the Market:


Shontay's journey began by recognizing a glaring gap in the skincare industry. She noticed the lack of sunscreens designed for people with darker skin tones, as most products left a noticeable white residue. This realization led her to embark on a mission to change the game.


2. Taking Bold Risks:


Shontay's story is a testament to her courage and risk-taking mindset. She made several major life decisions, including moving from New York to Florida, pursuing her master's degree, working in corporate America, and eventually relocating to California. These bold moves paved the way for her entrepreneurial journey.


3. Prioritizing Self-Care and Creativity:


During her time in California, Shontay prioritized self-care and embraced a more flexible lifestyle. She spent time hiking, doing yoga, and allowing herself the freedom to think creatively. This shift in mindset was instrumental in her journey towards creating Black Girl Sunscreen.

4. Acting on Ideas:


One of Shontay's essential pieces of advice is to act on your ideas. When she identified the need for a sunscreen tailored to people of color, she had to make a choice. She decided to take action, build her brand, and address the problem.


5. Financial Planning and Resourcefulness:


Shontay shared her experience of using her savings to create the first product for Black Girl Sunscreen. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing expenses and being resourceful. By budgeting wisely and focusing on crucial needs, she achieved significant growth.


6. Scaling Gradually:


Shontay's approach to scaling her business follows the "crawl, walk, run" model. She advises taking on only what you can handle and mastering it before expanding further. This gradual approach allows for a better understanding of the business landscape and builds a strong foundation for growth.


7. Redefining Work-Life Balance:


Work-life balance takes a unique form for Shontay. While she is deeply committed to her mission, she finds balance by traveling and taking an extra day to think and work alone. This change of environment offers her time for self-reflection and strategizing.


8. Embracing Self-Care:

Shontay highlights the importance of taking time for yourself, even as a dedicated entrepreneur. Finding moments to disconnect and recharge is essential for long-term success.

Shontay Lundy's journey is a testament to the power of determination, courage, and creativity. Her story demonstrates that with vision, dedication, and strategic planning, you can make a significant impact. Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking for inspiration, Shontay's story is a wellspring of wisdom and empowerment.


Listen to the full podcast episode here, and get ready to be inspired by Shontay's remarkable journey. It's time to unleash your creativity and embrace the path less traveled.


Stay tuned for more engaging conversations with remarkable women who are turning their creativity into successful businesses in Season 3 of "Cool Girls Create." Subscribe now!

About the author

Taniesha “Tee” Westbrook is a powerhouse creative and author who lives by the mantra of being a “Cool Girl “, a woman who uses her creativity and brilliance to walk in her purpose and create her own success. Known as a social and community entrepreneur, she has shared her expertise with other women on how to be unapologetically creative so that they can succeed in their endeavors.