BOSS Member Spotlight: Dr. Ellana Stinson

Dr. Ellana Stinson is an Emergency Room Physician and Trichology Certified, Dr. Ellana, a devoted Dog Mom, founded Safo Hair to promote healthy hair from within. Her passion for healing drives her as she merges Southern traditions with herbal science to foster wellness. Her goal: guide all back to their roots for vibrant hair and scalp health.

What inspired you to break into your industry?
I am an emergency medicine physician, driven by a passion for healing. My brand is a reflection of this commitment to wellness, recognizing that it's not just about hair; it's a profound expression of ourselves and mirrors our overall health. The inspiration for creating this brand arose from a personal need. Having faced challenges with thyroid and fertility issues, I struggled to find products that address my hair loss, thinning, and dry brittle hair.

In response to this gap in the market, I embarked on a journey to create a brand rooted in my Southern family traditions that have stood the test of time. Drawing on these timeless traditions and incorporating herbal ingredients, I formulated products designed to deliver tangible results for our customers. My goal is to guide everyone back to their roots, fostering a healthier scalp and promoting robust hair growth. This brand is not just a collection of products; it's a testament to the power of marrying tradition with science to achieve true well-being.

How do you balance your personal and professional life, or have you been able to find a balance? Balancing my personal and professional life is always top of mind for me, especially when it comes to my health and wellness. As a highly driven individual, I find immense satisfaction in seeing the bigger picture come together. I prioritize experiences and live by the mantra of working hard and playing hard. While I can be super laser-focused when needed, I also recognize the importance of taking breaks. That's why I'm meticulous about my work schedule and ensuring everything aligns properly. Balancing my medical practice with building and growing my brand requires careful scheduling, and having the flexibility of shift work makes it easier to manage. I prioritize downtime, acupuncture, and therapy when needed, and I always have a hobby to focus on—currently, I'm learning the violin, which serves as both a passion and an escape. Though I haven't been able to travel as much since starting Safo, I make sure to fit in a good trip once a year. Listening to my body is crucial, knowing when it's time to shift gears or take a break. My family and friends are vital to my well-being and inspiration, so carving out time for them is essential to my business success.

What is an inspirational quote that you live by? Believe in yourself, learn, and never stop wanting to build a better world. ~Mary McLeod Bethune

Who were some influential people or mentors who helped or encouraged you along the way? Throughout my journey, my family has been the cornerstone of support and inspiration, guiding me through challenges and celebrating successes. However, I must also recognize the pivotal role of my Uncle, whose encouragement propelled me to embark on the path of creating this brand. Faced with frustrations, I turned to him for guidance, drawing upon his extensive experience crafting products for loved ones and the community. Our discussions ignited the spark that fueled the development of Safo, driven by his unwavering belief in my potential. Along the way, the steadfast encouragement from my circle of friends and family has been a constant source of motivation, keeping me focused and determined to realize my vision.

What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business going strong? Maintaining a solid self-care routine is essential for sustaining my career and business. It allows me to recharge and bring my best self to every aspect of my professional life. Additionally, having an incredible support system is invaluable; their encouragement and guidance keep me grounded and motivated through any challenges I encounter. Continuous learning is also paramount. It enhances my skills and knowledge and ensures I stay adaptable and innovative in my career and business endeavors. Together, these “must-haves” form the foundation for success and resilience in my personal and professional life.

What is your definition of a BOSS? My definition of a boss is someone who leads with vision, integrity, and empathy. A boss empowers and inspires others, fosters growth and development, and navigates challenges with resilience and grace. A boss values collaboration, communicates effectively, and sets a positive example for others.


Provide us with two words that describe you. Impact Entrepreneur

Learn more about Dr. Ellana at www.safohair.com

Instagram: https://www.instragram.com/safohair/