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February 4, 2025 28 mins

In this compelling episode, George Johnson, the visionary founder of Afro Sheen, shares the remarkable journey of transforming $250 into a beauty industry empire that revolutionized Black hair care in America. At 97, Johnson sits down with Hermene Hartman in an exclusive N'DIGO Studio interview to reveal the untold story behind one of the most influential beauty brands in history.


Listen as Johnson reveals the pivotal moments that shaped his success, from a fateful elevator encounter to pioneering marketing strategies that made Afro Sheen a household name. His innovative approach to customer education and product development didn't just create a successful business—it transformed how Black women approached hair care nationwide.


"I just paid no attention to what the competitors were doing. And believe me, that was the right method. Because we taught people how to use our product. They had success using it, and the reputation of our company grew. And it was. In fact, it blossomed." - George Johnson


This episode explores:

- The entrepreneurial mindset that turned a modest investment into a beauty empire

- Revolutionary marketing strategies in the Black hair care industry

- How Johnson identified and filled a crucial gap in the beauty market

- The business setback that unexpectedly led to greater innovation

- Lasting impact on American beauty culture and Black entrepreneurship


Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, perseverance, and the birth of modern Black hair care products. Discover how one entrepreneur's vision forever changed an industry and created a legacy that continues to influence beauty standards today.


Connect With Us

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Website N'DIGO – African American Lifestyle

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Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/18Kowm29jn/

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Instagram Hermene Hartman | Publisher (@iamhermenehartman) • Instagram photos and videos

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TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@hermene10?_t=ZT-8tRkaYoQcAQ&_r=1



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