We had the good fortune of connecting with Dejanae Parkman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dejanae, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Dotted wasn’t just a business decision. It was personal. I spent years navigating painful periods, missed diagnoses, and a medical system that made me feel invisible. Every time I bought a product that didn’t work or left another appointment without answers, I kept thinking, “There has to be something better.”

My thought process was simple at first: if no one else is going to build what women like me need, then I will. But as I dug deeper, I realized I wasn’t alone. So many women are living in survival mode when it comes to their periods. I started Dotted to change that. I wanted to create something that made women feel supported in their bodies, confident in their choices, and connected to a community that gets it.

Winning first place at the Manifest Your Purpose pitch competition was a powerful affirmation that this mission resonates beyond my own story. It made it clear that what we’re building is not only necessary but overdue, and it gave me the momentum to keep growing this into something that can serve women on a national scale.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Dotted is a period care brand built specifically for women with endometriosis, PCOS, fibroids, and heavy cycles. We make non-toxic, high-absorbency period underwear and are building a community rooted in support, education, and real-life experiences. What sets us apart is that we are not just selling a product. We are creating a space where women feel seen, heard, and cared for.

What I am most proud of is that this brand was born out of my own lived experience. I did not create Dotted to chase profits. I created it because I needed it. I live with endometriosis and PCOS, and I am currently preparing for another surgery. I am the living, breathing embodiment of the mission I am working so hard for. I do not just understand the pain of being dismissed or misdiagnosed. I experience it. I go through it every single day. And I never want another woman to feel alone, lost, left out, or stuck with products that ignore what her body really needs.

One of the biggest challenges in building Dotted has been speaking openly about something that so many people still consider taboo. There are still people who turn away at the mention of periods. Some feel that periods are gross, as if menstruating is something to be ashamed of. God forbid a girl bleeds. God forbid we speak about what naturally happens to our bodies. That stigma is something I have to push through every time I talk about this brand. But I have learned that as scary and vulnerable as it is to speak out, it helps another woman feel less alone. It helps someone who is scared or ashamed take that first step to advocate for herself. These conversations may make some people uncomfortable, but they are necessary. They help women learn about their bodies, understand hormonal shifts, and discover what products to trust and what to avoid.

I truly feel that I am walking in my purpose when I speak up and advocate for women. Every time I share my story, I know it makes space for someone else to share theirs. Dotted is more than a brand. It is a community built on truth, care, and courage. And we are just getting started.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my best friends actually lives out of town, so whenever she visits, I’m always planning something fun. And that always starts with food. Chicken and waffles is my go-to meal, so we’re either stopping at Yardbird or heading to Cowboy Chow inside The Exchange Hall at the AT&T Discovery District for good food, good drinks, and that outdoor city feel. If we’re in the mood to mix things up, Chicken N Pickle is a must. Great food, a fun vibe, and of course pickleball. I am extremely competitive, so it’s the perfect spot to act like I’m a pro even if I’m really not.

Of course, I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t include some movement. When we want to get right for the summer, Evolve Dallas is one of my favorite stops. Grit by Brit is another one of my go-to studios for some girl power and sweat. Both are tough but fun and always better when you go with your bestie.

We love a good laugh or catching a concert at Toyota Music Factory, and for a little self-care, we’ll book a massage at The Joule. We usually wrap up the week with a Sunday brunch at Hyde Bar in Lower Greenville. It’s become a tradition with my Dallas friends, and now it’s a ritual whenever she’s in town too.

A perfect week for me blends food, fitness, laughter, and a little bit of luxury. Dallas makes it easy to do all of that and more.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people and moments that helped shape this journey, but if I had to give a shoutout, it would start with my mom. She’s been my first example of resilience, resourcefulness, and heart-led leadership. From watching her run her own small business to seeing how she shows up for people, I’ve learned what it means to create something with purpose.

I also have to recognize the Manifest Your Purpose community. Winning that pitch competition didn’t just give me funding. It gave me clarity, support, and a room full of women who truly believed in what I was building. That experience reminded me that I’m not alone, and it gave me the push I needed to keep going.

And finally, my fiancé Nick. His strength during his own health journey inspired me to keep showing up in mine. He reminds me every day why this work matters and who I’m doing it for.

Website: https://www.dottedhq.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dottedhq/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dottedhq

Image Credits
I have the rights and permissions for the images. Image credits to Manifest Your Purpose LLC.

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