As the economic landscape continues to tighten around small businesses in 2025, Kim Lewis, founder and CEO of CurlMix, steps forward with honesty, vulnerability, and determination. In this powerful conversation, Kim opens up about the real cost of entrepreneurship during a period defined by inflation, tariffs, supply chain strain, and unpredictable consumer spending.
Watch the full interview below:
A Conversation Rooted in Truth
Kim’s transparency about CurlMix’s current challenges has sparked a nationwide conversation about what small businesses — particularly Black-owned businesses — are facing today. Her emotional viral message resonated with thousands, not just because of what she said, but because of how deeply it reflected a collective struggle.
The Urgency Behind “20K in 60 Days”
CurlMix’s community-driven “20K in 60 Days” initiative was born out of necessity. As Kim explains, the company needs 20,000 orders to stabilize operations, protect jobs, and weather the economic downturn.
She breaks down the critical factors affecting brands like hers:
- Rising inflation driving up raw material costs
- Tariffs increasing the price of imported goods and packaging
- A shifting job market reducing consumer confidence
- Declining spending in the beauty and haircare space
- Higher competition from mass-market and venture-backed brands
For small businesses, every dollar counts — and every customer matters.
The Viral Video That Shifted the Conversation
Kim’s emotional message was more than a marketing plea. It was an honest reflection of the fear, exhaustion, and pressure so many founders feel behind the scenes.
She speaks candidly about filming that video, the moments leading up to pressing “publish,” and how the overwhelming response reminded her that CurlMix’s community is both powerful and deeply invested.
Surviving as a Black Woman Founder
As Kim shares, building a business as a Black woman means navigating systems, institutions, and financial barriers that weren’t built for your success.
She touches on:
- Being underestimated in fundraising spaces
- The stress of scaling without corporate backing
- The loneliness of leadership during crisis
- The weight of representing an entire community
- The power — and burden — of being “the face” of your brand
Her reflections underline a truth many founders know well: resilience isn’t optional — it’s essential.
Why Community Support Matters More Than Ever
CurlMix has always been rooted in community, from its early days on social media to its now loyal customer base. Kim explains why this moment isn’t just about CurlMix — it’s about setting a precedent for how consumers support the brands they claim to love.
“Community is our backbone,” she says. “If small businesses don’t survive moments like this, the entire beauty industry loses diversity, creativity, and representation.”
National Entrepreneurship Month in a Time of Crisis
This interview arrives during National Entrepreneurship Month, but Kim challenges the celebratory tone that often surrounds it. Instead, she asks the public to think about the realities entrepreneurs face — and the support they truly need.
For Kim, entrepreneurship isn’t about highlight reels. It’s about sacrifice, sustainability, and the courage to pivot when the odds are stacked against you.
Looking Ahead: The Future of CurlMix
Despite the pressures, Kim remains hopeful. She outlines her long-term vision for CurlMix — one rooted in innovation, community investment, and building a business model capable of withstanding economic volatility.
Her message to fellow small business owners is simple:
You’re not alone, and your fight matters.
To support CurlMix or learn more about the campaign:
https://curlmix.com
Tags
#CurlMix #KimLewis #smallbusiness #ProtectCurlMix
Publishing articles on film, television, and pop culture articles inclusive entertainment