Today’s guest is proof that sometimes the smartest thing you can do… is disappoint your parents a little.

Pooja Mehta, founder of MAKIAJ, was raised in a traditional Indian family of doctors—with a very clear path laid out for her. Instead, she chose makeup, moved to Paris, and built what would become a global beauty brand.

But this episode isn’t just about beauty—it’s about identity, confidence, and learning how to be seen.

From struggling with self-worth and not feeling “beautiful enough,” to becoming the woman behind one of the most talked-about beauty lighting brands, Pooja shares the mindset shifts that changed everything—especially one pivotal moment in 2020 that redefined how she approached success, community, and growth.

We also get into the real behind-the-scenes of beaut ...