Coffee with Yvonne

Top Model Doc & Fashion Truths with Bianca Perez

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Yvonne sits down with long-time friend and friend of the pod, professional makeup artist Bianca Perez, to explore the realities of the fashion and beauty industry. They reflect on their early careers in marketing, PR, and beauty, sharing the surprises, lessons, and eye-opening experiences that shaped them. Together, they unpack the Netflix docuseries on America’s Next Top Model, separating the on-screen glamour from behind-the-scenes reality, discussing constructed beauty standards, branding strategies, and what it really takes to work in the industry.
So grab your coffee and let's chat.
Takeaways 
How the "Top Model" franchise shaped perceptions of beauty from the 2000s to today
The impact of reality TV on modeling careers and industry accountability
The significance of staying true to your principles in a competitive field
How social media is transforming casting, branding, and representation
The importance of authenticity and resilience for creators and models
Future trends: plus-size modeling, ethnic diversity, and image standards
Episode Chapters 
00:00 Intro
03:36 Reflections on America's Next Top Model
06:12 Reality tv the evolution of Beauty & the Fashion Industry
09:00 The Role of Tyra Banks and Production
11:40 The Role of Production in Top Model
12:38 Mr. J  and Miss J and their Role in Top Model
14:26 Tyra and Her Role as EP
17:12 The Aftermath of Winning Top Model
18:49 Working in the Industry and the Pressure to Conform
26:07 The Complexities of Ethnicity in Fashion
28:42 Eva the Diva
29:56 Early Days of Reality TV
31:20 Reality TV's Impact on the Fashion Landscape
32:42 Reality TV and the Role in Protecting Contestants
34:52 Fashion Industry Then vs. Now
38:28 Closing
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee
 

Marketing Magic: Fast Fashion Fights, Content’s Next Chapter, and the Power of Equity

This week on Coffee with Yvonne, we’re diving into three powerful stories shaping the future of branding, creativity, and consumer trust.
First, the legal and reputational clash between Shein and Temu reveals what happens when ultra-fast fashion collides with intellectual-property concerns, competitive lawsuits, and shifting consumer expectations around ethics and originality.
Next, we explore the rise of AI-powered storytelling through Filmology Labs, and what it signals about content creation evolving from side hustle to serious industry, complete with economic impact, creator legitimacy, and a new geography of media production.
Finally, we unpack how Victoria’s Secret and the Fifteen Percent Pledge are turning purpose into strategy through an accelerator supporting underrepresented founders—showing how equity, investment, and storytelling can reshape brand perception.
From courtroom drama to algorithm-driven creativity to impact-led reinvention, this episode breaks down the marketing lessons behind the headlines and what they mean for where brands go next.
So grab your coffee and let’s chat.
Takeaways
The rivalry between Shein and Temu highlights the complexities of fast fashion.
AI is transforming content creation, making it more accessible and diverse.
Victoria's Secret's partnership with the 15% Pledge showcases corporate responsibility.
Fast fashion's environmental impact is prompting a shift towards sustainability.
Content creation is evolving into a legitimate career path.
Geographic branding can enhance a company's narrative and community impact.
Collaborative initiatives can reshape brand perception and audience engagement.
Articles 
Shein vs. Temu Lawsuit Explained the Ultra Fast Fashion War
Filmology Labs, a $250 Million Studio Built for Content Creation Like Vertical Micro-Dramas and AI-Driven Media Formats, Set to Open in New Jersey
Fifteen Percent Pledge, Victoria’s Secret Launch Virtual Accelerator Program To Fund And Provide Resources To BIPOC Founders
Episode Chapters
00:00 Intro
02:22 From Knockoffs to Knockdowns: The Battle Between Shein and Temu
12:25 Lights, Camera, Algorithm: AI in Content Creation
21:32 How Victoria’s Secret and the Fifteen Percent Pledge Are Turning Impact Into Influence
27:02 Closing
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
This episode was made possible by Permacast Walls in Florida, and their precast concrete walls. Follow them on Instagram @permacastwalls
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Marketing Magic: How Ryan Coogler, Macy’s, and MAC Are Rewriting the Playbook

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, the conversation explores the cultural strategies reshaping modern marketing. From Ryan Coogler’s evolution from acclaimed director to cultural architect, to Harlem’s Fashion Row and Macy’s redefining retail through purpose-driven pop-ups, to MAC Cosmetics embracing a content-first future with the digital return of MACzine, each story reveals how today’s most impactful brands are leading with storytelling, community, and creativity instead of traditional promotion.
Through thoughtful breakdowns and real-world insight, this episode highlights what it truly means to build relevance in a culture-first era—and what marketers, creators, and entrepreneurs can learn from the brands rewriting the playbook in real time.
So grab your coffee and let’s chat.
Takeaways 
Ryan Coogler's recognition as a cultural leader elevates his brand beyond filmmaking.
Experiential engagements create memorable brand moments for consumers.
Strategic collaborations can enhance visibility and credibility for niche brands.
Owning your content allows for deeper storytelling and community building.
Digital-first strategies meet audiences where they are, enhancing engagement.
Purpose-driven narratives resonate more with consumers than traditional sales tactics. 
Authentic creative voices in marketing foster genuine audience connections.
Articles 
Ryan Coogler Named Creative of the Year by the Creative Collective
Harlem’s Fashion Row Partners With Macy’s for HFR House, Celebrating Black Designers
MAC Cosmetics to digitally relaunch MACzine
Episode Chapters 
00:00 Intro
01:08 Marketing Magic Topics
03:05 Ryan Coogler: From Director to Cultural Architect
05:27 Harlem Fashion Row and Macy's: Purpose-Driven Pop-Ups
09:01 Harlem’s Fashion Row, Macy’s, and the Power of Purpose-Driven Pop-Ups
17:43 Inside MAC Cosmetics’ Content-First Marketing Strategy
25:38 Closing
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee
 

Marketing Magic: Viral Jingles, Creator Power, and the Cost of Getting Culture Wrong

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, we explore Romeo Bingham’s TikTok jingle that led to a national TV ad, showing how creators can shape brand campaigns in real time. Then, we break down Duolingo’s halftime-inspired strategy, proving that culture, timing, and a little humor can turn language learning into a Super Bowl phenomenon. 
Next, we unpack Khaby Lame’s journey from viral star to global business powerhouse, and what it means when influence becomes equity. Finally, we take a closer look at Nike and LeBron’s MLK-inspired sneaker, examining how intent and impact can collide when brands miss the mark in navigating culturally sensitive moments.
So grab your coffee and let’s chat.
Takeaways
Brands don't need to create culture, they need to curate it.
Familiarity beats novelty in high reach media.
Paying creators signals value, not just compliance.
Creators as enterprise, not just media channels
Authentic storytelling doesn't look the same as selling.
Social justice branding requires multi-dimensional investment.
Articles 
Social Media Celebrates Dr. Pepper Ad With TikTok Creator's Viral Sound
Duolingo launches 'Bad Bunny 101' ahead of Super Bowl LX halftime show
World’s biggest TikToker from Senegal sells company in $900m deal
LeBron James, Nike MLK shoes draw criticism: What to know
Episode Chapters
00:00 Intro
02:29 Romeo Bingham: From TikTok to TV
11:52 From Halftime to Fluent, Duolingo’s Big Game Strategy
18:57 Khaby Lame: Influence as Equity
26:44 Nike and LeBron: Intent vs. Impact in Cultural Marketing
35:28 Closing
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Storytelling in the Scroll Era: How Digital Creators Are Reviving Reading Culture with Talia Cadet

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, host Yvonne Pearson engages in a lively conversation with Talia Cadet, a Washington, D.C.-based influencer and content creator. They discuss Talia's journey in content creation, the importance of authenticity, and how her PR background influences her approach.
The conversation also touches on the significance of in-person engagement, the challenges of encouraging reading in a digital age, and recommendations for publishers to better support Black authors. Talia shares insights on crafting engaging content and the impact of community connections, both online and offline.
So grab your coffee and let's chat 
Takeaways
Talia's journey into content creation began during the pandemic.
Engagement is key in a short-attention span era.
Content should reflect personal interests and authenticity.
Readers are still curious and engaged with books.
In-person interactions strengthen community connections.
Publishers need to listen to their authors for effective marketing.
Data alone doesn't capture the full picture of audience engagement.
Impact and connection matter more than just numbers.
Episode Chapters 
Chapters
00:00 Intro-Talia Cadet
06:00 Content Creation Journey
11:51 Leveraging Formal Educational Skills in PR for Content Creation
17:49 Content Impact vs Numbers in Content Creation
21:02 Uncovering Diverse Stories in Literature
25:51 Building Audience Engagement Offline
31:38 How Publishers Can  Effectively Work with Diverse Audiences
36:23 Quick Fire-Sip and Spill
42:23 Closing 
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee
 
 

Marketing Magic: André Leon Talley, Legacy Branding, and the Power of Presence

In this episode of Coffee With Yvonne, host Yvonne explores the André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever exhibition at the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film in Atlanta through the lens of Marketing Magic.
The episode examines how the immersive exhibition, from life-sized mannequins in André Leon Talley’s likeness to personal artifacts from his career, transforms legacy into lived experience. It also explores Talley’s cultural impact as a modern Black dandy and connects the exhibition to broader conversations around dandyism highlighted by the Met Gala 2025.
With a focus on place, culture, and strategy, this episode highlights how authenticity and immersion turn moments into lasting influence.
So grab your coffee and let's chat
Takeaways
Andre Leon Talley was a trailblazer for Black creatives in fashion.
Fashion in the Black community is deeply rooted in cultural traditions.
Audience engagement is vital for understanding cultural impact.
The exhibit's design created an emotional connection to Andre's story.
Black dandyism is a significant cultural movement.
Mentorship is essential for fostering future talent in fashion.
Atlanta serves as a cultural hub for Black creativity and influence.
Articles
André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever
Black Dandyism Explained—From Its 18th-Century Roots to Modern-Day Expressions
Episode Chapters 
00:00 Introduction and Overview of Andre Leon Talley
04:47 The Impact of Andre Leon Talley on Fashion
12:52 Cultural Significance and Personal Stories
19:33 Audience Engagement and Immersion in the Exhibit
25:51 Legacy and Mentorship in the Fashion Industry
30:55 Conclusion and Reflection on Andre Leon Talley's Influence
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Coffee to Go: From Passion to Profit: The Business of Being an Artist with Justine Mangum Kirkman

Yvonne is pressing pause for the winter, curling up with cozy blankets, rewatching every holiday movie in sight, and taking a well-deserved seasonal recharge. In the meantime, she’s sharing a Coffee to Go episode, revisiting some of her favorite Coffee with Yvonne moments—conversations that inspired creativity, sparked bold ideas, and reminded listeners why community matters. Sit back, relax, and enjoy these highlights while she’s away.
Coffee with Yvonne will return in winter 2026 with fresh marketing magic episodes and new conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in their industry. While the show is on break, enjoy episodes from the Coffee with Yvonne archive.
Coffee to Go Episode Description:
How do you turn a passion for art into a thriving business—and land deals with major brands while doing it? In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Justine Mangum Kirkman, joins Yvonne for coffee to chat about her journey from PR professional to full-time artist. She shares personal stories about what inspired her to embrace her creative side, mastering the business side of creativity, and tips on pitching her work to big-box brands.
Justine also breaks down the world of art licensing, sharing how artists can get their work in major retail spaces. Plus, we discuss the importance of digital engagement—how to create content that resonates, grow your audience, and turn followers into loyal supporters.
And a little heads-up—Justine’s signature style isn’t just in her art but also in her accessories! If you hear a little jingle, that’s just the sound of her fabulous bracelets adding their own rhythm to the conversation.
Whether you're an emerging artist or a creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with gems to help you monetize your talent and expand your brand.
Episode chapters
00:00-04:29: Intro
04:30-1:01:16: Interview & Quick Fire
Interview highlights
8:15-10:44: What inspired her artistic journey
12:03-17:35:Turning her passion into a business, her journey from PR to full time entrepreneur
18:16-23:32:How to work with a big box retailer
25:11-29:16: How to create a pitch deck 28:41-29:22 
29:41-33:20: What is art licensing? 
33:21-36:38: Retail and responsibility of the business
40:05-43:52: Best practices and tools
47:26-51:00: How to build engagement and content for your digital audience
So grab your coffee and let’s chat 
Learn more about Justine and her business Winnie Weston here. Don’t forget to follow Justine on TikTok and Instagram!
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok. 

Coffee to Go: Making the Pivot: Career Marketing Tips from Nathan Barnaba

Yvonne is pressing pause for the winter, curling up with cozy blankets, rewatching every holiday movie in sight, and taking a well-deserved seasonal recharge. In the meantime, she’s sharing a Coffee to Go episode, revisiting some of her favorite Coffee with Yvonne moments—conversations that inspired creativity, sparked bold ideas, and reminded listeners why community matters. Sit back, relax, and enjoy these highlights while she’s away.
Coffee with Yvonne will return in winter 2026 with fresh marketing magic episodes and new conversations with creatives and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in their industry. While the show is on break, enjoy episodes from the Coffee with Yvonne archive.
Coffee to Go Episode Description:
How do you take the leap from stuck to strategic in your career? This week on Coffee with Yvonne, we’re joined by Nathan Barnaba—Instructional Designer, Career Coach, and professional pivot pro. With 6+ years of experience across government, nonprofit, and tech, Nate breaks down how to market yourself with intention, build clarity around your next move, and confidently navigate career transitions. Whether you're job hunting, shifting industries, or just ready for what’s next, this episode is your permission slip to pivot with purpose.
Episode Chapters 
00:00-05:20: Intro: Meet Nathan 
05:21-51:20-Interview and Quick Fire 
Interview Highlights
00:00-05:20: Intro: Meet Nathan 
05:21-7:57: What does it mean to embrace the pivot? 
7:58-11:50: When do you know it’s time to pivot?
11:55-17:43: How important is additional education to career growth?
17:44-20:07: How do you leverage your network into your new career? 
20:08-23:33: Career shifts and salary changes
23:37-26:08: Leadership isn’t a job title
26:26-30:14: Rebranding for a new job market
30:16-34:55: Marketing yourself for new roles
35:14-39:43: Leveraging social media for career growth 
39:49-42:04: Career pivots and learning lessons
42:08-45:45: Leaving corporate and consulting work
45:46-51:20: Quick Fire questions
51:21-53:26: Closing
So grab your coffee, and let's chat 
Learn more about Nathan and his work below. Don't forget to follow him on social! YouTube  @learnwithn8  TikTok @learnwithn8 LinkedIn @NathanBarnaba
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.