Today’s conversation all started with a viral video where I questioned if JVN Hair was the biggest celebrity brand failure of all time.
Jonathan Van Ness, Emmy-winning host of Queer Eye, bestselling author, comedian, and founder of JVN Hair, opens up about the biggest challenges of his career - from beauty brand bankruptcy to personal health crises - and how he fought his way back. This is JVN like you’ve never heard him before: unfiltered, vulnerable, and brutally honest about fame, money, and survival.
Why JVN Hair became the fastest-growing brand... and then went bankrupt
How losing millions overnight changed his entire approach to money
What it feels like to carry the weight of a team and brand in crisis
The shocking health scare that left him with “two buttholes” at his lowest point
Why he fired his business team and finally took control
How the Windsong Global deal gave him equity and a second chance
The reality of building a celebrity brand without a safety net
His reflections on Queer Eye, fame, and being targeted in culture wars
The role of therapy, resilience, and self-acceptance in rebuilding
Why his mission is still joy, curiosity, and making people feel beautiful
This episode is more than a story about bankruptcy - it’s a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and reclaiming your power when everything falls apart.
HSR Angels get 25% off at JVN Hair with code HSR25(Excludes bundles, subscriptions, gift cards)
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This episode is sponsored by:
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Getting Better with Jonathan Van Ness - Podcast
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More from Hot Smart Rich:
The Hot Smart Rich Money Mindset
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This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support from Ana Sessions and Coldea Productions.
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Hot Smart Rich is your place to hear unfiltered conversations with the people shaping the future of culture, creators, startups and community. Hosted by Maggie Sellers, investor and media powerhouse, and guests breaking the mold, you’ll get the real deal as it relates to navigating the startup fast lane, leveling up your life or becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self. New episodes weekly on Wednesdays.