We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kimber Maderazzo. Check out our conversation below.
Kimber, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
“Yes, I would hire me. I bring a track record of leading global teams, building and turning around brands, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. From running multi-billion-dollar businesses to guiding entrepreneurs and graduate students, I know how to balance strategy with execution. I’m also deeply networked in the beauty and consumer space, which allows me to bring fresh insights and opportunities wherever I work.
At the same time, I know there’s always room to grow. For me, that’s continuing to refine how I balance being hands-on with stepping back to empower others to take full ownership. The reason I’d still hire me is that I’m proactive about development—I actively seek feedback, I adapt quickly, and I translate challenges into learning moments. That combination of proven results, leadership experience, and willingness to keep growing is exactly what I’d look for if I were in the hiring seat.”
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kimber Maderazzo, a marketing professor, brand builder, and advisor who has spent my career at the intersection of beauty, wellness, and leadership. I’ve led global businesses, launched innovative products, and today I balance teaching at Pepperdine University with advising and investing in emerging beauty and consumer brands.
What makes my story unique is that I’ve experienced both the scale of billion-dollar brands like Proactiv and the intimacy of startups where every decision matters. I’m especially passionate about creating products and companies that not only perform but also empower people—whether that’s through shapewear that celebrates women’s bodies, skincare rooted in botanicals, or educational programs that prepare the next generation of global leaders.
Right now, I’m focused on two things: mentoring students and entrepreneurs through Pepperdine’s Global Business program, and shaping the future of beauty and wellness with brands that value innovation, integrity, and community. For me, it’s always about building something that makes people feel confident, connected, and cared for.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that always felt I had to carry everything on my own has served its purpose and is something I continue to release. Earlier in my career, that drive helped me achieve results and build credibility, but I’ve learned that true impact comes from collaboration, trusting others, and creating space for new voices. Today, I focus less on proving myself and more on empowering others—whether it’s students, colleagues, or entrepreneurs I advise. Letting go of that need to do it all myself has opened the door to greater leadership, deeper relationships, and more meaningful work.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the defining wounds of my life was losing my home and nearly everything I owned in the California wildfires. In that moment, I was confronted with what it truly means to lose material possessions—and what remains when all of that is stripped away. It forced me to let go of my attachment to things and lean into community, relationships, and purpose.
Another wound came earlier in my career, working in industries and leadership spaces where women’s voices weren’t always valued. That experience, while painful, shaped my determination to mentor and elevate women so they don’t have to fight the same battles alone.
Healing for me has come through connection: trusting my network, building communities where people feel seen, and using my story to remind others that you can rebuild, often stronger than before. Those wounds taught me resilience, but they also deepened my empathy and gave me a clearer sense of what really matters.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders—especially women—no matter how long it takes. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how having even one advocate can change the trajectory of someone’s life. For me, mentoring isn’t about quick wins; it’s about creating a ripple effect of confidence, knowledge, and opportunity that carries forward into families, companies, and communities. Whether it’s through my teaching at Pepperdine, advising entrepreneurs, or supporting women in business, I see mentorship as a lifelong investment in people. Even if it takes years to see the impact, I know it’s work that endures.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If immortality were real, what would you build?
If immortality were real, I would build an endless legacy of mentorship and community. I’d create structures—whether schools, programs, or networks—that ensure every generation of women and future leaders feels supported, seen, and empowered. With unlimited time, I’d focus on passing forward wisdom, building bridges across cultures and industries, and leaving behind a living ecosystem of people helping people. That way, what I build wouldn’t just last forever because of me—it would endure through the lives and impact of others
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @kimbermaderazzo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimbermaderazzo/
- Twitter: Madbeauty
Image Credits
Kimber Maderazzo
