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Dr. Shawnda Stewart is a visionary entrepreneur, accomplished scholar, and industry leader. With two honorary doctorates, a PhD in Theology, an MBA with honors, and extensive credentials in business and technology, she has dedicated her career to empowering underrepresented communities and fostering generational wealth. As Founder of Stewart Insurance Services, Dr. Stewart leads a nationally recognized brokerage and offers masterclasses in financial literacy and business success.

Expanding her passion for holistic well-being, Dr. Stewart founded CaliSunGlow, a luxury skincare line inspired by her belief that true beauty starts within. Dr. Stewart’s commitment to excellence shines through in every endeavor, making her a leader in both financial services and beauty.

What was the inspiration behind your skincare brand?

Dr. Shawnda: My prior skin esthetician for 20 years moved to another state. I wanted to continue an anti-aging regimen, and decided it was time to create my own skincare brand. Living in Southern California my entire life in the sun year-round, I felt like people not from California love our weather, which gives a sun-kissed glow they miss after their vacation ends and returning home. I said, Why not create an anti-aging skincare line that will give California lovers the glow they so often miss in a product. From that notion, I was inspired to create CaliSunGlow because that name describes my entire inspiration.

What’s your best-selling product?

Dr. Shawnda: Our CaliSunGlow vegan anti-aging skincare line offers several affordable products, with the best sellers being the Collagen Moisturizer and Retinol Glow Serum.

Do you believe in work-life balance? If so, how do you maintain it?

Dr. Shawnda: Yes, it is essential to have a work-life balance to avoid burnout. Entrepreneurs work tirelessly, long hours with many hats, lack of sleep, juggling the back office technical needs, servicing clients, and are often overworked. For that reason, to maintain a balanced business and personal life, we must reset our minds and relax to enjoy the fruits of our labor. If we are not at our best as leaders, mentors, and entrepreneurs due to exhaustion, being out of balance could potentially jeopardize the services being rendered.

What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Dr. Shawnda: Research the industries of interest before jumping in. Talk to other entrepreneurs to find a mentor who can provide coaching to help mitigate pitfalls. Prepare your mindset to eliminate distractions and naysayers to manifest your dreams. Don’t expect overnight for everything to fall in place with a new business, but understand that resilience will be your best friend. Look into what type of expenses to be expected for your new business, and funding opportunities available to support implementing your business.

Who is your business role model? Why?

Dr. Shawnda: Oprah Winfrey is my business role model because I remember watching her on TV as a young teen as a talk show host. Oprah said, “Sign all of your checks”. Her words resonated with me to this day, and I ran my business with my eye on everything. It’s the only way or expect challenges with your bottom line when numbers aren’t reconciling as they should.

How can readers connect online?

Dr. Shawnda: Connect online: https://calisunglow.com/