# The Non-Linear Path to Building a Science-Backed Skincare Brand with Allison McNamara

An episode of [Coffee N° 5 with Lara Schmoisman](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1484537932), 20 Jan 2026, 30 min.

Audio: https://www.buzzsprout.com/676701/episodes/18536491-the-non-linear-path-to-building-a-science-backed-skincare-brand-with-allison-mcnamara.mp3

Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Allison McNamara, Founder and CEO of MARA Beauty, to explore the non-linear path from media to building a science-backed skincare brand. A grounded conversation about discipline, focus, and earning clarity over time. We'll talk about: • Why non-linear careers often lead to stronger founders • Building a science-backed brand without shortcuts • How discipline shapes product and growth decisions • The reality behind scaling and retail expansion • Why focus matters more than speed • When brand clarity finally clicks For more information, visit Allison McNamara's LinkedIn and Instagram. Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show

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