Ep. 13 | Navigating Racial Diversity, Personal Boundaries, and Assertiveness in the Beauty Industry with Malika James
malika "I GET TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT FOLLOW THEIR DREAMS…AND DID THE IMPOSSIBLE EVERY SINGLE DAY"
Malika James, known as MJ, is a seasoned makeup artist with so much experience but at the same time she’s so relatable and easy to talk to. She’s a leader and an individual contributor in the beauty industry. You’ll hear her talk about both the artistry and the business behind makeup for film and television, navigating unions and supporting fellow artists.
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In this episode, I’m honored to be joined by Malika “MJ” James, a renowned TV and film makeup artist whose career spans over a decade and includes work with stars like Gabrielle Union, Danai Gurira, and Keke Palmer.
MJ shares her powerful insights on some of the most pressing issues in the beauty and entertainment industries today, from the ongoing need for racial equality and diversity to the importance of setting personal boundaries and practicing assertiveness. Drawing from her own experiences and her impactful 2020 Variety article, A Union Makeup Artist Reflects on Hollywood’s Systemic Racism, Past and Present, MJ sheds light on the systemic racism that still exists in Hollywood and how it affects artists behind the scenes.
Beyond artistry, MJ emphasizes smart decision-making, reminding us that “all money is not good money”, a vital lesson about choosing opportunities that align with your values and well-being. She also shares practical advice on self-care and maintaining professional success through clear boundaries and assertiveness.
Show Topics:
Racial diversity and systemic racism in Hollywood
Setting personal boundaries
Practicing Assertiveness
Making smart career decisions
Must-have makeup essentials from a pro artist
TIME STAMPS
00:00 - Intro
5:38 - People were pissed after the Variety Article
11:21 - The Union president called me a liar
13:11 - Our journey as black people is just different
15:30 - Eating clean to operate at my highest self
16:48 - Maturity in your personal life will transcend to your business
24:11 - People are always gonna show you who you are
30:31 - Doing the Super Bowl
34:20 - Choosing your team
38:33 - You are replaceable
41:10 - Learning to read the room
45:01 - Emotional stamina and allowing yourself to cry
58:49 - Taking mental breaks for yourself
1:01:01 Having a safety net as a creative
1:07:27 - Navigating friendships as a creative
1:11:01 - Choosing clients, all money is not good money
1:19:38 - Taking business advice
1:31:34 - Kiyah Wright’s “From Beauty to Business”
1:34:22 - Shoutout to Delina’s Mom
ABOUT MALIKA JAMES
Malika James is a bicoastal TV and film makeup artist with over 10 years of experience. She blends beauty and wellness, focusing on healthy skin that lasts beyond makeup. Malika is a member of the Makeup and Hair Stylist Guilds Local 706 and 798. She has worked with stars like Gabrielle Union, Danai Gurira, Keke Palmer, and many others. Her credits include Grown-ish, Black-ish, The Hunger Games series, and The Walking Dead.
Follow MJ on all social media platforms
Read her full Variety article here: A Union Makeup Artist Reflects on Hollywood’s Systemic Racism, Past and Present.
Ask MJ: What 5 Things Are Always in Your Makeup Bag?
Lip Balm (Crème de La Mer) — reason that’s #1 is because if your lips are dry it’s so uncomfortable and you're not settled until you can get something on them.
Concealer (NARS) — it can be an instant boost in your overall look…my go to is NARS
Lipstick — A mood booster that brightens your day.
Bronzer — it can tell a story…it makes you look like you’ve been out in the sun living your best life. It brings life to any face
Mascara — Instantly lifts and opens the eyes
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