With the rise of more and more black women breaking away from traditional 9-5s to become their own bosses, the CEO is getting a revamp as the SHEeo. In the Meet The SHEeo series, we talk to melanated mavens leveling up and glowing up, all while redefining what it means to be a boss.
While home from basketball camp, Chantel Powell noticed that her then six-year-old son had an undesirable smell, and after doing research, whipped up a natural deodorant in her kitchen. At the time there wasn't a fun, natural deodorant on the market catering to kids, so when her son insisted that she make a batch of deodorant for his friends, Powell knew that the idea was worth investing in.
In 2018, she officially launched Play Pits— a mother's solution to providing a kid-friendly, all-natural hygiene option for youth with active lifestyles an affordable price point. Within a year, the brand has gained over 3,000 customers worldwide, and can be found on shelves in several stores across the country.
Meet Chantel L. Powell of Play Pits.
Courtesy of Chantel L. Powell
Title: CEO of Play Pits
Year Founded: 2018
Location: Upper Marlboro, MD
# of Employees: 5 owners (Chantel, Husband, and their kids Kameron, Kaiden, and Keyona)
30-Second Pitch: Play Pits is a 100% all natural deodorant, free of aluminum, parabens, synthetic fragrances and other harsh chemicals. This is a mother's solution to providing a kid-friendly, all-natural hygiene option for youth with active lifestyles. Play Pits strives to be a beacon of healthier solutions for all demographics and communities at an affordable price point. It's our mission to educate parents and children about the dangerous ingredients found in popular deodorants and everyday household products.
What inspired you to start your brand?
Funny story! My son Kameron, who was six at the time, was between basketball camp and basketball camp and smelled horrible! My exact words were, "You smell like a grown man!" After research with different deodorant brands and their ingredients, I decided to make a natural deodorant for Kameron in my kitchen. To my surprise, he loved it and told his campers and requested I make his deodorant for all the kids at camp. After my initial refusal, I quickly reconsidered once it hit me that it was a genius business idea. My family and I are committed to providing products to ensure kids have access to all-natural deodorants and parents have a brand that can be trusted.
What was your a-ha moment that brought your idea into reality?
Kameron urging me to make my deodorant for everybody...that was my a-ha moment. He looked at me with his sweet six-year-old eyes and suggested that I make the deodorant I whipped up just for him for EVERYONE. After some additional market research and discovering their was no product on the market that looked like anything I could create...I knew it was worth a try. Ha...I am glad I "tried"!
Who is your ideal customer?
The majority of my customers are MOMS. Moms and dads that are in need of rescuing from smelly pits from their little ones. Our ideal customers are Moms, Dads, families, women, men, anyone sick of using toxic deodorant and looking for a natural deodorant that really works. While Play Pits was initially created for kids, since launching we have discovered though there are a number of natural deodorants on the market, adults are struggling to find an effective natural deodorant. Our adult customers quickly learned that Play Pits is not only a safe natural deodorant, it's effective and it works!
What makes your business different?
We are making deodorant FUN. There are many natural deodorants on the market but they are BORING and a bit too serious for us. Therefore, we made a traditional boring and lack luster hgiene product fun, exciting and intriguing. Play Pits is the "Cool Kid" in the deodorant market.
What obstacles did you have to overcome while launching and growing your brand? How were you able to overcome them?
Initially, people didn't understand what we were doing. Why are we making a deodorant for KIDS? It was a different concept and people were not used to it but we overcame that by educating everyone that would listen about the harmful ingredients that was in their traditional antiperspirant. We were able to convert those people and they then became our "Play Pits Under-Armie", who help us spread the word and save one nose at a time! #SaveYourNose
What was the defining moment in your entrepreneurial journey?
We have had several moments, the first moment was when we won our first pitch competition in May 2018 because that win validated all my sleepless nights and hard work that went into the launch of Play Pits. It was the moment my dream became my families' truth. This May, I was honored as the Hustle & Grow Honoree at The Momference. I was voted and recognized by my target market and my peers; and most recently being featured in our first article by Because Of Them We Can which gained amazing traction and visibility to our community.
Where do you see your company in 5-10 years?
I see our company becoming a household name! Play Pits will be THE natural body care that parents trust and kids demand found in all the big box stores. In the next five years we will have a whole product line for the entire family. Our ultimate goal is to normalize natural products and using our products to educate generations.
Where have you seen the biggest return on investment?
We started small and promoted at a grass-roots level with vending and doing pop-ups. Those events has allowed us to talk and connect with new and existing customers monthly. Social media has also played a huge roll in our marketing by reaching thousands of customers all over the world.
Do you have a mentor? If so, who?
Before I launched I was fortunate to meet the owner of Zen in a Jar, Nikki, at an event. She was completely God-sent, Nikki has truly taken me under her wing by sharing resources, promoting my business and connecting me with her network. I am so grateful to have her as my big sister in business and friend.
Biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
When we launched, I was doing everything: building my website, managing social media, processing orders, making product, etc all while juggling my family and a job. That is a fast path to burning out physically, mentally and emotionally. I have learned that you can't run a business alone! As the African proverb says, "If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." It is super important to utilize your village. My village of family and friends currently serve as my team as I grow Play Pits.
"During the early stages of business, funds may be limited but there is plenty of work that still has to be done. Therefore, it's imperative to seek the help of people that love you and believe in the work you are doing because those are the people that will work for FREE."
Anything else you would like for people to know, or take away from your entrepreneurial story?
Dreams do come true! Words can't describe the level of pride I have about Play Pits' success. To know a little over a year ago, Play Pits was in development, a top secret project that I poured all my extra money into, a product that I knew was amazing and innovative but wasn't sure people would get it. And now one year later in business, we have over 3,000 customers all over the world and on shelves in several stores across the country. I am proud of the legacy my family is building.
For more of Chantel and Play Pits, follow her on Instagram.
RELATED
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert