From Marvel To Market: Why Mike Colter And His Daughters Created A Hair Care Business

Key Concepts

• Niles and Chaz: A hair care product line founded by Mike Coulter and his wife, specifically formulated for mixed-textured hair, focusing on sustainable and vegan ingredients.
• Renewable Energy Investment: Mike Coulter’s preference for investing in renewable energy sources due to concerns about sustainability and the future of the planet.
• The “Girl Dad” Experience: Coulter’s reflections on the unique bond with his daughters and the responsibilities and joys of fatherhood.
• Entrepreneurial Challenges: The difficulties and considerations involved in starting and scaling a business, including packaging, distribution, and maintaining brand integrity.
• The Hollywood Landscape: Coulter’s insights into the realities of the entertainment industry, including pay structures, misconceptions about wealth, and the importance of genuine connections.
• The Power of Connection: Coulter identifies his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds as his “superpower,” stemming from life experience and observation.

The Big Picture & Personal Philosophy

Mike Coulter, known for his roles in Luke Cage, The Good Wife, and other productions, discusses his life beyond acting, focusing on his new venture, Niles and Chaz hair care, his role as a father, and his perspectives on business and life. He emphasizes the importance of “thinking about the big picture,” particularly regarding sustainability and the future of the planet, stating, “What’s the money going to do for you once the planet’s gone?” This philosophy drives his investment in renewable energy. He views being a “girl dad” as a uniquely rewarding experience, believing daughters offer a lasting connection and care. He notes a saying, “a girl, a man who has a daughter will always eat steak,” signifying the enduring support daughters provide.

Niles and Chaz Hair Care: A Family Venture

Coulter and his wife founded Niles and Chaz, a hair care line designed for mixed-textured hair, born out of a personal need. They encountered difficulties finding suitable products while traveling, prompting them to create their own. The brand prioritizes sustainable, vegan, and paraben-free ingredients, avoiding hormone disruptors. The initial product line included:

• What the Frizz: A styling gel.
• Hell Razor/Curl Razor: A curl enhancer.
• Tangle Strangles: A detangler with okra for slip.
• Scalp Enchanter: A scalp treatment for braids and cornrows, containing charcoal.

They have since expanded to include a shampoo ("Oh My Wash") and conditioner ("Slip Happens"). Coulter highlights the importance of involving his daughters in the business, hoping they will eventually take ownership. He envisions opening brick-and-mortar stores to build customer loyalty and provide a more interactive experience. He estimates a starting investment of around $50,000 to create the initial product line, acknowledging the challenges of balancing profit with sustainable practices and quality ingredients.

Navigating the Business World & Competition

Coulter acknowledges the competitive landscape of the beauty industry (a $68 billion market, with hair care accounting for $17 billion according to Ibis World data). However, he doesn’t view established brands like Shea Moisture or Head & Shoulders as direct competition, seeing potential for collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong direct-to-consumer (D2C) base before pursuing larger retail partnerships, to avoid overexpansion and maintain control over brand messaging and quality. He stresses the need for slow, sustainable growth, prioritizing repeat customers and brand loyalty.

Hollywood Realities & Personal Growth

Coulter discusses the misconceptions surrounding Hollywood wealth, stating that not everyone on television is rich. He highlights the importance of financial responsibility and the need to be mindful of high living costs and tax brackets. He emphasizes the value of genuine connections within the industry, noting that supportive mentors and colleagues are crucial for success. He describes his approach to acting as a continuous learning process, seeking roles that challenge him and expand his horizons. He recounts his experience with Evil as a deliberate departure from his role in Luke Cage, seeking a complex character that pushed him creatively.

The “Luke Cage” Legacy & Future Possibilities

Coulter reflects on his iconic role as Luke Cage, acknowledging its cultural significance, particularly for young Black men seeking positive role models. He describes the character as “a reluctant superhero…a blue-collar guy” who embodies integrity and community building. He notes the show’s impact, citing Cho Hadari Coker’s vision of approaching the series from a musical standpoint, incorporating influences from writers like James Baldwin. While Luke Cage was cancelled after two seasons, Coulter expresses openness to revisiting the character, stating he is in conversations with Marvel about potential reboots. He acknowledges the possibility of recasting but believes he could still bring something unique to the role.

Coulter’s “Superpower”: The Art of Connection

Coulter identifies his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds as his greatest strength. He attributes this to his upbringing in the South and his exposure to a wide range of experiences, from poverty to wealth. He believes this ability allows him to understand people’s motivations and build genuine relationships. He emphasizes the importance of being open to new experiences and embracing failure as a necessary part of growth, stating, “You have to be willing to look like a fool to become great at anything.”

Soundtrack to the Year & Personal Interests

Coulter reveals his current musical obsession: The Strokes’ album The New Abnormal, appreciating its upbeat energy and rock and roll vibe. He contrasts this with his eclectic taste, which includes Prince, Wu-Tang Clan, Billy Joel, and Elton John. He also enjoys activities like skateboarding, archery, and billiards, embracing the challenge of learning new skills and overcoming the fear of embarrassment.

Conclusion

Mike Coulter’s conversation reveals a multifaceted individual driven by a commitment to family, sustainability, and personal growth. He seamlessly blends his successful acting career with his entrepreneurial pursuits, demonstrating a pragmatic and thoughtful approach to both. His emphasis on connection, authenticity, and embracing challenges provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone seeking a meaningful life. He embodies a philosophy of continuous learning and a dedication to leaving a positive impact on the world.