We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jeremiah Rushing a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jeremiah , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
The intention of my business is to help people have a healthier self esteem of themselves. When I was studying sociology at Morehouse College, my focus was on the likelihood of low income students graduating college within four years. I decided to explain my research through a theory called Cultural Capital. Cultural Capital is the non material capital people use to gain access to different spaces and to attain resources. Since I’ve started my business I have created a space where people I have capital with come to and form meaningful relationships. I have used my business as a way to bring people together in a sense.
Jeremiah , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
At Black Bird Moistures, I believe skincare should be simple, effective, and made with real ingredients you can trust. I started this business while at Morehouse College, looking for a way to earn my own money. At the same time, I struggled with dry skin and was tired of store-bought lotions that didn’t last. So, I made my own. After plenty of trial and error, I created a rich, deeply moisturizing body butter that worked. Friends started asking for it, and before I knew it, my side hustle turned into something bigger.
What makes Black Bird Moistures different is the quality and care put into every jar. My body butter is made with pure, all-natural ingredients, free from harsh chemicals or fillers. I also take the extra step to clean and filter my butters, removing impurities for a smoother, more nourishing product. Every batch is handcrafted in small quantities, ensuring that you get only the best. At Black Bird Moistures, it’s not just about skincare, it’s about feeling good in your own skin. Whether you’re fighting dryness, keeping your glow, or just treating yourself, this body butter has you covered.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
When I started Black Bird Moistures, I didn’t have a big budget or investors. I funded it myself with money from old jobs, school grants, and even tax returns. I used my savings to buy ingredients and packaging, then reinvested every single dollar I made back into the business. Instead of paying myself, I put everything toward better materials, branding, and growing my reach. I’ve been hitting pop-ups every weekend, selling online, and doing whatever it takes to keep things moving. It hasn’t been easy, but staying disciplined and reinvesting in myself has helped my business grow.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
I started Black Bird Moistures while I was at **Morehouse College** as a way to earn money. After leaving school, I got a job at Upstart but when I was laid off, I had a hard time finding another job. Instead of stressing over job applications, I decided to make my business my full-time job. I put everything I had into it, reinvesting every single dollar I made back into the business. I focused on improving my products, growing my customer base, and getting my brand out there. Over time, I started seeing real progress.
One of my biggest milestones was realizing I could fully support myself through my business. What started as a side hustle is now my career, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The journey hasn’t been easy, but betting on myself was the best decision I ever made.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shopblackbirdmoisture.com
- Instagram: @blackbirdmoistures
- Facebook: blackbirdmoistures