One on One: Jean Shea, Founder and President, Biotone

jean-shea-biotone[Image: Courtesy of Jean Shea]What makes your company stand out?

Biotone is in a unique segment of the market. On the positive side, our products are used by many spas for massages and other body treatments. On the other hand, because we primarily address the body, we’re more limited in scope regarding skin care for the face.

What’s the most fun part of your job?

Being creative is what I love most. My background is in psychology and art, and I enjoy the chance to incorporate these skills.

Tell us about your hobbies.

I like to sew. Recently, I sat down and made eight pillows for my family room! I planned the project after learning on YouTube how pillows are made in factories. It was quite fun!

What’s your favorite thing to do with family and friends?

I love just getting together and doing nothing. Casual conversation and socializing is a reward all its own.

If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?

I’m very interested in real estate and medical issues, so I’d probably be involved in one of those fields.

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What advice would you give your younger, just- starting-out self?

Learn before you leap. Study the market and see where your skills fit best. With so many companies and brands in the mix, your products must
have unique qualities that will be welcomed by customers—don’t just copy others.

Who would you most like to meet?

In the past I’ve mentioned Oprah, but I’d also like to meet Cleopatra. She was innovative, wore eye makeup to protect her eyes, and it’s said that she took daily baths in donkey milk for her skin.

What’s on your bucket list?

I’d like more time for creative pursuits. I’m happiest when I’m taking on a project and seeing it to completion. I would definitely like to continue doing more of this.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done?

Built a house—without knowing anything about building a house. It turned out well, but I would question why I was doing it almost every day.

What’s your favorite part of the day?

Mornings, when I get to have a big cup of coffee.

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What’s your biggest accomplishment?

Starting a business! I did a lot of talking prior to starting Biotone—probably several years of talking. Finally, someone pointed this out to me, and suggested that I either give up the idea or develop it. I chose the latter.

Rapid Response

Personal mantra: Be firm, fair and focused.
Last good film you saw: Green Book
Guilty pleasure: Lots of toast with olive oil
Pet peeve: People who talk a lot about their plans, but never seem to get them done.
Favorite food: Mexican
Favorite city: San Diego
Scariest thing you’ve ever done: Built a house and did not know anything about building a house. It turned out good, but I would question why I was doing this almost every day.
Can’t leave the house without: My dog Lacey and my cell phone!

 

This story first appeared in the April issue of Dayspa magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.

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