10 Lessons from 20 Years at The Top of the Beauty Industry

“A must listen for any woman who wants to succeed in life & business” - Podcast reviewer on Apple.

To enter this week’s giveaway from T3 Micro, rate, review, and subscribe to the show on Apple!

In this episode, meet the founder you don’t know, behind the brand you already love.

Dr. Julie Chung, Co-Founder of T3 Micro, gives the advice every ambitious woman wants to hear about building a brand, looking your best, and choosing the right life co-founder when she opens up about:

• How to use color theory analysis to look your best

• The lessons from building a top-selling beauty brand at Sephora for over 20 years

• How to use being a multi-hyphenate to your advantage

• ⁠The new standard to hold your boyfriend/husband to!

• What’s really going on with 13-year-olds running around Sephora

• Why exercising soft power always wins over hard power

• How to build a business with your family—and not lose your sanity

You can connect with Dr. Julie on Instagram: @juliechungmd_t3 & @t3micro and shop T3 products at Sephora or on their website!

♡ We’re Hiring! ♡

Are you the person we’re looking for?? The time has come to add a Creative Producer to the HSR team. So if you’re based in LA and want to contribute to the editorial direction, and lead episode production, and social distribution of the Hot Smart Rich podcast, we’d love to hear from you!!

♡ 01. Daily Inspiration ♡

I always carve out time for podcasts that stretch my thinking and keep me sharp on culture and business. Favorites include Fashion People, Business of Fashion, Hot Smart Rich, and Limited Supply for fresh perspectives.

♡ 02. Timeless Closet ♡

My wardrobe is built on pieces that never lose relevance. Think minimalist tailoring from The Row, architectural silhouettes by Phoebe Philo, and the effortless structure of Khaite.

♡ 03. Everyday Uniform ♡

For staples I live in, I reach for my favorite pants from High Sport, cozy knits from COS, and well-cut essentials from Massimo Dutti that carry me through busy weeks.

♡ 04. Vintage Treasures ♡

Some of my best finds are secondhand. Vintage Levi’s from The Dig in Venice and old Celine from The RealReal feel like little time capsules that bring so much character into my wardrobe.

♡ 05. Strength in Simplicity ♡

Wellness for me is about consistency. Just thirty minutes of incline walking in a weighted vest has completely shifted my energy levels and mindset.

♡ 06. Strong Arms ♡

For upper body, I follow this TikTok workout. They’re quick but surprisingly effective, and I’m layering in more weight training to push myself further.

♡ 07. Morning Rituals ♡

A few non-negotiables start every day: Vitamin C for glow and sunscreen no matter the weather. These habits feel small but make the biggest long-term difference.

♡ 08. Nightly Renewal ♡

Evenings are for repair. I use retinol to reset my skin, book monthly Korean body scrubs for a deeper reset, and end the night with light therapy that keeps everything balanced.

♡ 09. Summer Adornments ♡

This season I’ve been living in silver pendants — delicate but bold. My rotation includes pieces from Juju Vera, the Bottle Pendant by Tiffany, and the timeless Bean Necklace I’ll wear forever.

♡ 10. Tools of the Trade ♡

My styling routine is anchored by my airbrush tool, which keeps my hair sleek without treatments, and my curling straightener, which makes shifting between polished waves and a smooth finish effortless.

♡ Hot, Smart, Rich Tips ♡

♡ Hot Hack ♡

Hotness is a state of mind. Own it there first.

♡ Smart Hack ♡

Stay Curious. Read a lot, listen more and keep learning.

♡ Rich Tip ♡

Time is the ultimate currency. Protect it for yourself and those you love - that’s real wealth.

♡ Something People Don’t Know About You ♡

I learned how to really party in Med School. My school, UCSF, would bring out kegs of beer after finals. I learned how to let loose during my training which is kind of funny.