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book cover for Never Wear Red Lipstick

Never Wear Red Lipstick

8 Lies That Stop Black Women from Succeeding in Life and Business

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Pub Date Mar 31 2026 | Archive Date Not set


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Description

A guide for Black women to unlock their potential in business and in life.

Despite being the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the US, Black women face systemic barriers that threaten to derail their dreams, including lack of funding, racial and gender bias, and a lack of senior advocates in corporate spaces. Dr. Karmetria Dunham Burton, an executive with two decades of corporate experience, offers a new vision--one rooted in spiritual strength, self-care, confidence, and authenticity.

Never Wear Red Lipstick is more than a business book--it's a movement for liberation, leadership, and faith. Dr. Burton boldly dismantles the myths and limiting beliefs that have kept Black women from thriving in boardrooms and business ventures.

Blending heartfelt storytelling with field-tested strategies, Never Wear Red Lipstick introduces you to the Paint Your Lips Red principles: ten truths to help Black women embrace their power and lead with boldness. From overcoming betrayal in the workplace to prioritizing wellness, from claiming spiritual inheritance to redefining what it means to be a real boss, this book speaks to every woman who's been told she has to shrink to succeed. With the "Boss Blueprint" at its core, Dr. Burton lays out a practical, faith-driven path to growth, leadership, and legacy. Whether you're in a cubicle or launching a company, this book will help you stop surviving and start soaring.

A guide for Black women to unlock their potential in business and in life.

Despite being the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the US, Black women face systemic barriers that threaten to...


Advance Praise

“As an Asian American woman in business, I found Never Wear Red Lipstick to be both powerful and deeply relatable as Dr. Karmetria Dunham Burton blends powerful insights with practical strategies that speak to the shared experiences of women of color in the workplace. Her honesty, wisdom, and faith contribute to personal storytelling that will help women of color shed those limiting beliefs and take action by reclaiming their full potential and power in the workplace.” 
Katie O. Mooney, talent and inclusion strategist 

“The ‘Boss Blueprint Breakthroughs’ give great practical instructions on how to step into your role as a leader. This book is also a must-read for every white leader who wants to understand and appreciate the Black female experience” 
Francesca DeBiase, board member and retired global chief procurement officer 

“Dr. Burton, an experienced executive and coach, dishes up practical advice in an engaging way that inspires action. This thoughtful and well-written book promises to be a guide you’ll refer to time and again to achieve the success you desire.”
Marion K. Gross, global chief supply chain officer (retired) and board member 


  

“As an Asian American woman in business, I found Never Wear Red Lipstick to be both powerful and deeply relatable as Dr. Karmetria Dunham Burton blends powerful insights with practical strategies...


Marketing Plan

National and online publicity campaign targeting Black media and business media

Trade advertising

Social media campaign targeting Black women, women of faith, entrepreneurs, and self-help readers

Corporate and professional events

Podcast and radio tour

Influencer outreach

National and online publicity campaign targeting Black media and business media

Trade advertising

Social media campaign targeting Black women, women of faith, entrepreneurs, and self-help readers

...


Available Editions

EDITION Hardcover
ISBN 9798889833000
PRICE $24.99 (USD)
PAGES 176

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