Outspoken Beauty

In this (absolutely fascinating) episode I'm joined by former Editor-in-Chief of Cosmopolitan, Womens Health and Elle, the amazing Farrah Storr.As you'll hear Farrah imagined that she'd be in magazines all her life but as the media landscape has changed, she's moved away and now spends her time running the UK division of Substack where she also publishes her own very successful newsletter Things Worth Knowing.During the episode we discuss Farrah's career and where she is now. We have a really interesting conversation about how the role of editor has now shifted (the title no longer exists at Vogue, instead being called Head of Editorial Content) and what this means for the future of magazines. We also explore how many former edtors are now self-publishing on Substack and making more money then they did in their former high profile jobs.This leads us to chat about we can not only get the best out of Substack as readers but also how easy it is to start one and build a wonderful community and potentially new career.I hope that you leave this episode as inspired as I am. Substack really does seem like such a wonderful option for people who are sick of short form content that is based on annoying algorithms. Who knows, you could be earning enough on Substack to enable you to leave your job this time next year!Check out Farrah's Substack here Oh and my own one The Outspoken is here

In this week's Minipod I'm reflecting on the many responses that I had to my Instagram reel about the "little bits of wee" that have started appearing from time to time after particularly violent sneezes and laughing fits. I discuss the reasons this starts to happen (it's not just to do with birth) and share some of your brilliant suggestions for keeping things in check.I also talk about Body Mass Index and how I was quite surprised about my "health weight" range. Later I get onto beauty and recommendations with a truly phenomenal beauty box (the best I've ever come across), an amazing Insta handle you have to follow if you want amazing Mediterranean recipe ideas, an SOS balm that everyone could do with having and two books (one inspiring and the other utterly trashy but non putdownable).Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode I chat to breath coach and founder of The Breath Space, Jamie Clements.Jamie (who did an amazing breathing session at an event that I attended) suffered with severe anxiety and panic attacks and found that his whole life changed for the better when he discovered the power of breathing. He has now trained in many aspects of it and his built his career around helping others.During the episode we chat about both of our experiences with anxiety, the power of breathing and also get into an unexpected but utterly fascinating conversation about the challenges of navigating being a man in 2023.I found Jamie's opinions really opened my mind to how a lot of men must be feeling and also made me think about how I bring up my own son. It was truly enlightening and I'm so happy that we had it.You can find out more about Jamie and his work here

This episode has the potential to change your health and I don't say that lightly.My guest is Dr Federica Amati, an eminent medical scientist and public health nutritionist whose advice is backed by science and years of research and experience.During our chat we discuss how by making changes to our diets and attitudes to food we have the potential to stave off a wide range of diseases and live longer, healthier lives. Federica gives really simple advice and her tips are affordable and so easy to incorporate.Our chat goes further though with a discussion about Federica's frustration at the government's reticence to make healthy food part of their agenda, the huge profits that companies are making from fast food and the impact that living in poverty has on diet (the healthier foods should be far far more affordable). We also chat about the money that large coorporations are paying dieticians in the USA to push drinks containg aspartame. (It's truly shocking!)Finally we have a chat about Federica's amazing book that comes out on 5th October. It's called Recipes For A Better Menopause and is brimming with excellent, science backed information about HRT, exercise and a plethora of wonderful recipes. You can pre-order it hereAlso this is the link to the Association For NutritionThis really is the most fascinating and important episode and I hope that you get lots out of it.

In this Minipod I'm chatting through some of the things that have been on my mind recently. I question the amount of money that retailers are taking from brands having found out last night that it is a shocking amount (up to 80%). I also talk about how we make other people feel having had two very different experiences with people yesterday...one that left me feeling cold and insecure and the other that made me feel uplifted and happy.I also chat about friendships in later life, my love for cheesy romance novels and why I don't think I'll ever be buying anything from Skims.If you follow me on Instagram (@outspokenbeautynicola) you will have seen me post these thoughts yesterday, During the episode I give my reasoning behind them.Hope this resonates with you Outspoken Beauties xx

Bryony has returned from a huge adventure but to Nicola's horror, the details are top secret. In the meantime Nicola is recording the podcast in the work loo....will someone disturb them and think that there is something wrong with Nicola after she has been in there for more than half an hour? Listen to find out!Also:Nicola questions what exactly is going on at her Grandma's nursing homeBryony gets all excited reminiscing about Universal StudiosThere is a big bra debateBryony thinks she has finally found the answer to Chub RubNicola and Bryony both have some bargainous beauty products to shareAnd a whole lot moreEnjoy and we hope you have a good laugh listening this weekxx

I am so excited about this week's guest. I'm joined by the utterly brilliant actress, author, singer and mum Giovanna Fletcher.Giovanna and I had so much fun recording this and we cover so many topics from motherhood to how Giovanna creates the perfect space for writing her books to how she carves out precious time for herself in a very busy life.When it comes to beauty Giovanna explains why she prefers to wear minimal makeup but equally enjoys getting glammed up. She also goes into the important role that fragrance plays in her life and talks us through some of the products that work best for her.I loved every minute of this chat. Giovanna is a warm, natural and genuinely lovely person and this all comes across in the episode. I know you'll love listening to this!

In this week's Minipod I'm chatting through some of the amazing launches I've been to this week. I'll tell you about the most scentsational fragrance for escapism and summer joy, why Bioderma have impressed me no end and will be going into detail about a new bath millk that does a range of wonderful things for both your mind and body. There's also a new serum from Dermalogica that has absolutely blown my mind.I'm also talking side hustles, Substack and I have some new makeup favourites to tell you about.

In this episode I'm chatting to the wonderful makeup artist Mira Parmar (@miramakeup) about her beauty habits.I really like and can relate to Mira. Like so many of us she's a busy Mum trying to juggle work, kids, family life and all the other stuff and has a great attitude to beauty and what it means to her.During the episode we talk a lot about getting the glow (Mira's favourite look), skincare, Mira's standout makeup products and also about fragrance and what it means to her.I loved chatting to Mira and hearing her great recommendations.

This episode is in partnership with This is SilkIn this episode I get to meet the incredible Sonal Keay. Sonal is the founder of one of my new favourite skincare brands, This Is Silk, and has been on a real journey both with her own skin and her career.As you'll hear, Sonal has a rare and life-altering skin condition that has at times been incredibly challenging for her. It is this condition that is part of the reason that she became obsessed with the healing and repairing qualities of silk. The more she learnt about it. the more she realised the extent that it could help both herself and others and This Is Silk was born.Before launching This Is Silk Sonal was a barrister and it's fascinating to hear how much her life has changed both personally and professionally.I loved getting to know Sonal. She's such a genuine woman and has put so much into creating a brand that is truly special. Her story is not only fascinating but truly inspiring and I can't wait for you to hear it.

In this week's minipod I'm giving you an update on my mental health and also talking honestly about my recent weight gain.I also have some brilliant things to tell you about including a body serum, the very best deoderant for sore armpits, a perfume that is great at this time of year and a makeup artist led brand that is truly excellent. I also tell you about the people I alsways call when I need a last minute and high quality beauty treatment.You'll find all the links to the products mentioned in the podcast via my LTK shop. It's in the link in my bio on Instagram @Outspokenbeautynicola.

It felt so good to be reunited with Bryony and my goodness did she make me laugh this week.During the episode we talk about: How to do the perfect roadside weeThe family picnic in a HIGHLY unsuitable placeWhy my kids are getting confused about (my) female anatomyBryony's night of extreme sweating in front of a plethora of A ListersExcessive swimming pool inflatables and what you can do with themNaked AttractionWhy you should never buy a bra from an Insta adand a whole lot more....Beauty wise we're covering brows, fragrance, beautiful bases and a mind blowingly good clay face mask.Hope this episode brings a smile to your face xx

In this, the last of my Summer specials I'm chatting to a great friend to the podcast (and me), the brilliant dermatologist Sam Bunting.Sam talks us through her summer must haves including the bite cream that she is never without, her perfect holiday makeup products and of course her hot weather skincare must haves.You can find Sam's wonderful skincare range here . Her Neutralising Gel has been a real life saver while I've been away, helping to keep my usual breakouts at bay.

*This episode is in partnership with Avon * I have been so excited for you to hear this episode. Many of you know Avon for skincare and makeup but did you know that their story started with fragrance and amazing fragrance at that?During this evocative episode, Suzy Nightingale and I are exploring Avon's incredible history with fragrance. We chat about how their entire story started with irresistible scents, the fact that they have worked with some of the world's most renowned perfumers and we then take you on a beautiful journey as we talk through how their brand new perfume Far Away Beyond The Moon makes us feel. Prepare for a journey of the senses as we re-create our personal experiences of the scent with music and story telling as well as talking you through the stunning ingredients including a rare flower that only blooms at night.Later on I chat to the brilliant Victor Costa who is the Global Head of Fragrance at Avon and the man who helps take their perfumes from creative ideas where anything is possible to fragrant realities. Finally it's time to talk to some of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who have been sampling Far Away Beyond The Moon and give their honest reviews.As ever Avon have achieved something utterly brilliant at an accessible price point and it makes me so happy. I hope you enjoy immersing yourself in the world of Avon fragrance as much as I have.

In this special episode the My Summer Beauty Habits mini series it's my gorgeous co-host Bryony Blake sharing her holiday must haves.As you can imagine there's lots of makeup tips including how to mix the perfect holiday base, a brilliant SPF tip if you have sensitive skin and advice for extending your tan.We also talk about wearing makeup on the beach, getting your lashes done and have a fab chat about fragrance.There's lots more and as ever Bryony makes me laugh a lot! Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

It's time for another Summer Special. Sharing her holiday beauty picks with us in this episode is makeup artist extraordinaire and all round wonderful individual Caroline Barnes.From vivid lipstick to hot weather makeup tips to spf to sharing some of her very best little black book beauty contacts, Caroline is as ever the dream guest.Enjoy this sunshine filled episode Outspoken Beauties xx

In this week's Minipod I'm talking you through my top products of the week.This week you can expect:A stunning SPF that hs come over from Korea and not only protects your skin but is brimming with hyaluronic acidA coconut scented shampoo and conditioner that are affordable and will keep your colour in tactThe perfect gradual tanA sublime hair oil that contains black sesame oil and amazing herbsThe brand new bath product from NEOM that does SO muchAnd more.....I'll link to all products mentioned in this episode on my Instagram Stories. xx

I'm so happy to feature Suzy Nightingale as my first guest on this fun summer mini-series where I explore the seasonal beauty picks of some of my very favourite people. Suzy who as many of you know is an award winning fragrance expert and journalist and of course my co-host on On The Scent, is also incredibly passionate about non-scent related beauty products as you'll hear (and you may remember if you heard her hugely popular episode of My Beauty Habits).Here are some of the brilliant products that she mentions during our chat. Listen to the episode to find out why she rates them so highly.TOYL (Time of Your Life) Beauty Subscription BoxKate Somerville Dermal Quench Liquid Lift Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 50 Fresh Protective Milk for Face & BodyAltruist SPF 50NUXE Refreshing After-Sun Lotion Skinny Tan Protect & Glow High Sun Protection & Daily Gradual Self-Tan Spray e.l.f Halo Glow Setting PowderLisa Eldridge Velvet Bloom Ateh Jewel Blush of Dreams Cream Blush In Radiant Rav Chanel Baumé Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick IUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil Laneige Lip Sleeping MaskGoldfield & Banks Ingenious GingerThameen Fanfare

In this episode I finally get to chat to one of the very best dentists around - the brilliant Dr Uchenna Okoye. Dr. Uchenna Okoye is not only a world-renowned dentist but is an entrepreneur (she's recently launched her brilliant brand My Smile), TV personality, and clinical director of London Smiling Clinics. With her unique approach to dentistry, Dr. Uchenna has become a trailblazer in the industry and a celebrity favourite, providing top-notch dental services to her clients and being renowned for making them feel at ease.During the episode we chat about:Dr Uchenna's personal fear of dentists and how it's influenced her careerWhy pride in our smiles can lead to good overall healthHow the menopause affects our teeth and what we can do about itOral advice for kidsWhy going abroad for dental treatments may not be the best ideaWhat it feels like to start your own brandWhy oral care and skincare aren't that dissimilar!This is such a great episode with a truly talented woman. I never knew that I could feel excited about caring for my teeth but Dr Uchenna really has inspired me!

In this week's Minipod I have some really great things to tell you about. From the £5 body oil that not only smells great and sinks in a treat but that repels mosquitoes, to the tinted moisturiser that makes your skin luminous and luscious to the genius app that covers everything from exercise to nutrition to sleep.I also mention something new and surpringly fabulous at Primark and two products that are perfect for your summer travels.

It's so good to be reunited with the utter delight that is Bryony Blake.In this episode:We're talking about the Barbie Movie (and questioning why Boris Johnson is getting in on the act)We're chatting about Penis Captivus (if you don't know what this is then brace yourself!)We're talking honestly about Moon CupsAnd we're exploring all things social media and exes.We do of course have loads of beauty recommendations for you including the perfect moisturiser to use after your retinoids, a beautiful sunkissed cream blush, an oil for a very specific type of hair and much much more.Buckle up and enjoy xx

In this episode I start with a chat with the lovely Natasha Whittaker, Director of Beauty and co-founder of the brilliant skincare website pure-beauty.co.uk.Natasha got in touch with me earlier this month to let me know how tough it can be as a small independent beauty website and during our catch up she tells us what makes her offering stand apart. (Think skincare advice from a pro, amazing and personal customer service, fabulous products and a phone number answered by people who are always there to help).If you'd like to buy your skincare from Pure Beauty click here and use the code OUTSPOKEN15 for 15% off everything until 31/8/23I then go onto my main interview with the utterly brilliant formulator and entrepreneur Lorna Radford. Lorna is one of the leading skin and haircare formulators in the UK (I would happily bet that most of us own something made by her and her incredible team of scientists) and having started her lab Enkos Developments in her mid-20's is also celebrated in the industry as being someone who has achieved a hell of a lot at a very young age.Lorna and I discuss how she got into beauty formulation and why it makes her so happy. We also chat about the influence that Korean beauty innovation has on her work, why she is always discerning when it comes to ingredient manufacturers and why the future of beauty is so unbelievably exciting.If you're into skicnare and are interested in hearing from the person who makes brands' dreams into a reality then you're going to love hearing from Lorna. Oh and if you have always dreamt of building your own beauty brand then you can connect with her via her website Enkos Developments.

In this week's Minipod I'm going through my edit of the very best products of the week.I'll be chatting about two fantastic concealer/foundation hybrids that you can take anywhere for on the go touch ups, a purple shampoo to stop blonde hair becoming brassy, my experience of Fussy Deoderant now that I've given it a thorough trial and I'll also be talking about the Dame Menstruation Cup. Oh and I also tell you about the classic product that is just brilliant for skin healing.Come and join the fabulous Outspoken Beauty community on our private Facebook Page. Here's the link.

Poor Bryony has lost her voice but will be back next week. Do not fear though as my guest is the woman who was named by Vogue as one of the world's leading aromatherapists. In this episode the wonderful Michelle Roques O'Neil is here to share her beauty and wellbeing habits as well as a whole lot of wisdom.During the episode we chat about Michelle's journey to becoming a truly gifted aromatherapist. We focus in on her love of fragrance, why she always likes to try out the latest makeup trends, why less is more when it comes to her skincare routine and of course, the amazing power of aromatherapy oils and how we use them. I love Michelle's tips for self care, meditation and also body acceptance. She's a truly inspiring woman.Michelle has the most beautiful and truly effective aromatherapy brand called Therapie Life. Everything that I have used in the range has been exceptional. I'll link to it here just in case you want to check it out.

In this episode I get to know a truly iconic member of the beauty industry who many would say changed the face of beauty. The incredible Terry de Gunzberg joins me to talk about her career and the everlasting impact that she has had on the beauty industry.During the episode we chat about her unplanned entry into the world of makeup artistry that led to a career that took off rapidly and soon saw her working on runway and editorial projects with some of the biggest names in the business. We also talk through her time as International Makeup Designer for YSL where amongst many things she invented the iconic Touche Éclat in 1992. Terry has so many great stories including how King Charles reacted when he met her. It is also fascinating to learn about the way that her own brand By Terry started as a highly luxe personalised offering that was for the rich and famous but eventually became the far more accessible brand that so many of us swear by today.Terry is such a successful woman but when you meet her the first things you notice are her warmth and generosity of spirit (as well as her incredibly chich dress sense). Her beautiful personality shines through in this absolutely fascinating episode which I just know that you'll love.

This week's minipod is brimming with things that have got me very excited this week.From the website that will change the way you buy your skincare to the product that will help you meditate if you're really not the meditating type, to the natural deoderant that promises to combat BO to some exciting new skincare launches from an unexpected brand. Oh and I'll go into detail about the most sublime body oil that costs a mere £9.If you'd like to know anything else about the things I mention you can always DM me on Instagram @OutspokenBeautyNicola.

In this week's episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by journalist, trend forecaster and Head of Beauty at Stylus, the fabulous Lisa Payne.If anyone knows about beauty it's Lisa. Her role at Stylus (a super cool trend forecasting company) sees her tracking the latest innovations in beauty product development from around the world and providing analysis on emerging shifts in the industry.In a future episode I definitely want to get Lisa back on to tell us about all the exciting things that are to come in beauty but for this episode we're delving deep into her fabulous Merit beauty bag and chatting through all the products that she absolutely swears by.By the way, even though Lisa isn't an influencer, she is honestly one of the most influential people I know when it comes to recommendations. Everything she tells me to buy is amazing so perhaps hide your credit card while you listen :0)Here's what Lisa mentions:Weleda Skin Food Curél Deep Moisture Spray (mini available only at Superdrug)Trinny London See the Light SPF 50Givenchy lip balm RMS UnCoverup Concealer Danesssa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush Glow in shade TiaraMerit Bronze Balm and Brow 1980, bag comes free with first purchase.Kjaer Weiss Im-Possible Mascara Charlotte Mensah Manketti Oil (15ml mini)Maison Marie Louis No.04 Bois de Balincourt perfume oilLH Cosmetics Shimmer Saga palette 3INA eyeliner and 503 colour stick r.e.m. beauty lipstick

I am so incredibly excited to have the brilliant broadcaster, journalist and entrepreneur Ateh Jewel back on the podcast.Last time we spoke Ateh was planning her beauty brand and now it has finally been born into the beauty halls of Harrods no less. Ateh Jewel Beauty is a brand with a story with more twists and turns than Netflix's newest binge watch. A story of integrity, saying no when it would have been so much easier to say yes, sticking to your guns when people try to talk your ideas down and one of women coming together to make things happen. The result is three of the most beautiful, high quality blushers imaginable and much more to come.Ateh and I talk about the mountains that she had to climb to bring her dream to fruition (prepare to be shocked by some of the things that she has experienced). We also chat about the symbolism of Chanel handbags (and why Ateh no longer needs them), the power of being in your 40's, being the best mums we can be and why her brand is about so much more than just makeup.This interview is one that I will never forget. Prepare to feel empowered, excited and ready to take on the world!You can buy Ateh's blushers at Harrods here or find them on her website

*This episode is in partnership with Environ Skincare*In this week's minipod I'm chatting to the amazing Dr Matthias Aust. Matthias is a German-based plastic surgeon who has practised aesthetic and plastic surgery for over 18 years and has also been a long term supporter of Environ skincare. This year he was appointed to the role of Medical Advisor at Environ, working alongside their founder Dr Des Fernandes.During the episode we have the most FASCINATING chat about Environ's approach to Vitamin A (they believe that Vitamin A is like oxygen to the skin) that is based on decades of pioneering research carried out by Dr Des. Prepare to have your mind blown! We also talk about anti-oxidants and the ingredients we need to do the very best for our skin.Environ is an amazing brand with a huge amount of robust science and research backing it up and if you'd like to find out more about their story and take a look at their incredibly diverse Vitamin A offering then here's a link to their website.

The gorgeous Bryony Blake is back for another fun filled episode and this week we're talking about:Some of the disgusting things that past flatmates have done (warning we tell some pretty shocking stories!)Bryony's fear of rodents and why it nearly got out of control at her mum's houseWhy my house is crowded but I'm loving itOur excitement at Ree and Ateh Jewel's recent makeup launchesThe most bargainous way to remove your moustacheA hybrid product that will save you loads of timeWhy we can't get enough of the cinemaAnd lots lots more.Oh and I want to give a huge shout out for Pure Beauty. As you'll hear on the podcast, this small, family run business needs help from us. They sell amazing skincare but people are buying elsewhere. So next time you're after some new Medik8 or Dermalogica products, do give them a try. You can find them here

I'm so excited to say that my guest in this episode is founder and CEO of VioletteFR, Guerlain's Creative Director of Makeup and mother of two, the wonderful Violette Serrat.Violette, (who is the absolute epitomy of French chic) shares her story...the story of a young makeup artist with a lot of drive and passion who did things HER way and by following her instinct and being just a little bit daring, has had an exciting and exceptionally successful career.During the episode we talk about her career journey, her approach to makeup, working with huge brands, starting her own (incredible) one and how she juggles motherhood with an incredibly busy career. Oh and we have a great chat about the power of glitter and what makes her products stand apart from the rest.I know that you're going to love getting to know Violette and I thoroughly recommend that you check out her incredible brand VioletteFR when you get a chance. (It's availably online and in the UK at Oh My Cream )

I've got so many excellent new beauty products to tell you about in this week's Minipod.From Ateh Jewel's incredible new blushers to a perfume from Violette Serrat that is swooningly sexy to nail stickers that are so good that they might be able to replace your gel mani, these products are next level in terms of quality, innovation and ingenuity.

In this episode I chat to the amazing Dani Gilbert. Dani who is known as Dani G on Instagram, has suffered with alopecia since the age of one. She has always used her platform to raise awareness of her condition with the hopes of changing society’s perceptions of beauty standards.Over the years, she has grown a huge following on both her instagram and Tik Tok by creating beauty looks catering to those with alopecia or other hair loss conditions on her social media.During the episode Dani opens up about her alopecia and how it has affected her over the years. Whilst being honest about the lows, she also has such a positive attitude and talks about how she has come to a place where she is confident to be seen without her wig and wants to empower people to feel beautiful even if they don't fit society's "conventional" image beauty.Dani adores makeup and creates the most incredible looks on her channels and we also have a fab chat about some of her favourite products.You can find Dani on Instagram @danigmakeup.

In this episode I interview the truly brilliant dermatologist and nutritionist Dr Thivi Maruthappu.Dr Thivi is a consultant dermatologist, nutritionist and researcher. As the UK's first dual-qualified dermatologist and nutritionist, her pioneering expertise bridges the gap between diet and skin health. She works in the NHS and has her own practice based at London's Cleveland Clinic. She also conducts research on nutrition and the skin at King's College, London, where she is an honorary senior lecturer.Most recently Thivi has written one of the best books about skin that I've read in a very very long time. It's called "SkinFood: Your 4-Step Solution to Healthy, Happy Skin" and in it she gives the most brilliant advice about how to get our very best skin by taking a 360 approach that takes stress, diet, lifestyle and topical treatments into conseideration.During the episode we talk through Dr Thivi's brilliant approach and how we can apply it to our lives. Her advice is excellent and I walked away from the interview excited make some changes not only for my skin but for my general health.

In this week's Minipod I have so many lovely things to tell you about from an amazing facial fake tan to the most incredible glow-giving makeup to a fragrance that is based on carrot and sweet potato and smells surprisingly good.I'm also talking about the newest release from Floral Street, the ultimate affordable t-shirts and I'm celebrating 5 years of Dr Sam Bunting's brilliant skincare range.

The delectable makeup artist Bryony Blake returns for our fortnightly beauty and laughter fest.In this episode we're talking tackling chub rub, observations from Elton's Glastonbury gig, Bryony's amazing Pink experience, lip pumps, crazy periods and lots more.Bryony also has great makeup advice for hooded eyes and we have some lovely beauty products to tell you about.

In this episode I have the absolute pleasure of speaking to Ben Grace who is the man behind a truly excellent skincare brand called Sbtrct.Having been one of the founding team members of Bulldog Skincare, Ben was desperate to do his own thing but he knew that it needed to be something that stood out in the crowded skincare market as well as truly benefitting the environment. Cue solid skincare! And when I say solid I'm talking actives too. Ben has worked tirelessly with his formulator to make solid Vitamin C and Retinoids and my mind is honestly blown.Ben is such an inspiring guy and I love his story and what he's doing. I hope you leave this episode feeling as excited as I am. I know it's only skincare but when people bring something new and creative to the table it makes me very happy indeed.Enjoy getting to know this brilliant man!

In this week's Minipod I tell you about my new love...Violette FR makeup. This incredible brand, founded by makeup artist and Guerlain's Creative Director of Makeup Violette Serrat is just brilliant and I go through my standout products which include a "just kissed" lip stain, the most perfect matte cream blush and an on the go solution for greasy fringes.I also talk about an affordable and utterly sublime shower oil, a perfume that will have people chasing you to find out what you're wearing and lots more. Enjoy :0)

I was recently on a panel with Lisa Snowdon and her amazing Menopause Doctor Naomi Potter and after just five minutes of chatting to Naomi I knew I had to get her on the podcast.During this episode Naomi gives the best advice on all things Perimenopause and Menopause. She is a dr that I trust implicitally and if you're uncertain about what your hormones are up to at the moment, this is defintely the episode for you.If you'd like more info about Dr Naomi you can find her here Also make sure you check out her Menopaise Madness sessions on Lisa Snowdon's Instagram.

In this episode I get to sit down with the utterly brilliant founder and CEO of Tropic Skincare, Susie Ma.Susie and I talk about so much....her journey from selling body scrub in jars at her local market to owning an incredibly successful beauty brand, parting ways with her former business partner Alan Sugar, her huge passion for sustainability and doing everything she can to help the environment, what it's like being a CEO and much more.Susie also explains how the business works, why she gets so much out of empowering her ambassadors and why she just can't let go of her very special coffee mug.I was so pleasantly surprised by how down to earth and funny Susie was. She's the kind of person that you can imagine being really great friends with and I loved how she came across during the interview. I hope you enjoy getting to know this true beauty powerhouse who I believe has the power to shape the industry's future for the better.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about a new deoderant that promises to look after your armpits, one of my favourite BHA/AHA body moisturisers, the power of breathing correctly and a man who might be able to help you if you don't and a children's shower gel that I can't get enough of. I also have a solid perfume to tell you about and discuss why I'm getting a bit obsessed with microbiome home testing.The shampoo sheets I talk about during the episode come from @rehabyourhair.

Bryony Blake is back and is surprisingly awake seeing as she spent last night stuck in an airport for hours with two major celebrities. (Find out what they got up to!)As well as airport antics, we talk about bloated tummies, pregnancy tests, unsuitable dreams about doctors and the best ice-cream EVER!Beauty wise we're talking incredible lipsticks, makeup setting sprays, the perfect spf and lots more.

I'll be honest with you. This was one of the hardest and most emotional interviews I've ever done and for some people I know that it won't be an easy listen. However, I also know that my guest, Zoe Clark-Coates MBE, will offer so many people exactly what they need and will help them navigate an incredibly difficult experience and it is for that reason that I think that this is one of the most important episodes that I've ever published.This episode sees Zoe telling me her story, the story of how her and her husband lost 5 babies during pregnancy. Zoe goes into detail about not only how this felt but how her and her husband got through it. She talks honestly about elements of the experience that I never knew about and also about things that she needed at the time that she just didn't get from the medical world.Zoe's story is so utterly hearbreaking and yet she gives hope and incredible advice. Her losses inspired her and her husband to start the Mariposa Trust which is a leading charity that supports people who have experienced this type of loss. She has also written best selling books on the subject and become an advisor to the government.Whether you have lost a baby and need help processing it or know someone who has, then this episode will I think help you because not only does Zoe talk transparently about the experience, but she also gives hope about surviving it.If you need further help then here's a link to the Mariposa Trust

In this week's minipod I'm talking lonely old people, life changing books and getting your 30 plant based foods a week. I then get into beauty with mention of a spectacular fragrance that smells a bit of cigarettes (I know!), a perfume oil that will lift your spirits, an SPF eye cream from a really interesting brand and the mascara that I really can't get enough of!Here's what I mention:Dr Federica AmatiUntamed by Glennon DoyleSculpted by Aimee My MascaraCeline NightclubbingNest Seville Orange Perfume OilCoola Duo spf eye-cream

Now this is a man that you're going to love! My guest in this episode is the incredible Dr Sunni Patel. Dr Sunni is a qualified culinary medicine coach as well as a Level 3 fitness instructor and personal trainer with an established background as a published clinician-scientist. He was diagnosed with IBD in 2014 and founded the platform Dish Dash Deets following his own transition to a plant-based diet and made it his mission to create recipes, educational content, and coaching programs for the wellbeing of others.During the episode Sunni chats about fascinating new research into longevity, the huge importance of gut health, ageing healthily and tips for improving our diets. His positivity and energy make him so lovely to listen to and I have a feeling that you're going to leave this episode feeling inspired and motivated.You can find Dr Sunni here at Dish Dash Deets.

*This Episode is in Partnership with Oskia *In this episode I finally get the amazing Georgie Cleeve, founder of Oskia on the podcast. (It's been a long time coming).Oskia is one of those skincare brands that has a long list of loyal users who wouldn't dream of putting anything else on their skin, and for good reason. The brand is made in-house with mind-blowing science, clinical trials that prove its efficacity and with a huge amount of passion and knowledge from Georgie herself.During the episode we hear how a hugely effective supplement used for horses helped heal Georgie and eventually led to her starting Oskia.Georgie goes on to discuss how she built her business, why she believes in brilliant delivery systems and clever combinations of ingredients that inspire the skin to work hard rather than simple formulas that don't always do what they say on the tin and we also delve into some of her skin-changing products, including her brand new Violet Water range for acne (it's amazing!)If you love skincare and you're looking for something that will truly make a diference to your skin health then you'll adore getting to know Oskia and Georgie in this episode.

Looking after our wellbeing has never been more important. Life is busy and stressful and often we put our own needs last. If I've learnt anything in the past year, its that mental wellbeing in particular needs more focus and there are things that we can add into our lives to keep things in check.In this week's minipod I talk about some of the things that I use and do that help keep me happy and balanced. I mention:@neomorganics Calming Pen@Aromatherapyassociates roller balls@Barebiology fish oils@Ilapothecary Feminine Happy Oil@Kalmarwellbeing Calm range@mysensate@thenue_co Forest Lungs@_iloh.co.uk@e11even_fragrance

The delectable Bryony Blake is back for our fortnightly episode.This week we're chatting about trips to the circus, celebrity book launches, drama at This Morning and why we both think that comment sections in certain newspapers should be banned. We also mention dodgy Instagram ads that make you want to buy rubbish products (I was recently on the point of buying some sort of miracle sticky bra that had some less than kind reviews on Trust Pilot) and Bryony recommends tit tape for keeping larger boobs in place.This week's beauty edit is a good one with a sultry scent that will take you to a desert surrounded by roses, the best mascara that doesn't smudge and some gorgeous eye shadows that are excellent multi-taskers too!

In this episode I chat to the utterly fabulous model, broadcaster and author Lisa Snowdon.Lisa has just written her first book "Just Getting Started: Lessons in Life, Love and Menopause" and having cried, laughed and done much nodding along as I read it, I couldn't wait to get Lisa in the studio to grill her about it.During the episode Lisa and I talk about:-Some of the traumas that she has experienced in her life, including abusive relationships and has she has moved on from them.-How perimenopause affected Lisa and why finally seeking the right help changed everything for the better.-Embracing life and just getting started after the menopause-Finding the right partner-How to look after yourself in perimenopause and beyond-Becoming an authorThis was a very emotional interview in places and I'm so grateful to Lisa for opening up to me like she did. This is something that she also does in her book and I know that it can't be easy when you are in the public eye like she is. Lisa has done it to help others and I respect that so much.Just Getting Started is an absolute must read. I have highlighted so many parts of the book. It's absolutely brimming with advice about menopause and general health. It's also Lisa's story and she tells it in the most honest and authentic way. You can get a copy from all good bookshops as well as here on Amazon.I know that you're going to get so much out of this episode. Enjoy it Outspoken Beauties x

In this week's Minipod I tell you all about Lisa Snowdon's very swanky launch for her brilliant book Just Getting Started. I also have some really brilliant products to tell you about including a fragrance discovery set that has blown my mind (and nose), a gorgeous creamy bronzer and my all time favourite brow products. Oh and I've found a truly magical hair product.Enjoy :0) xx

In this episode I chat to Candice Quinn who is the founder of Manisafe (the company that has brought those brilliant UV fingerless gloves to the UK).Candice and I have a really interesting conversation about the gel manicures that so many of us are addicted to and why there is increasing evidence that they may come with risks to our skin.Candice and I chat about the research and evidence in a balanced way (I am not one to encourage scaremongering as you know) and then she explains how she has come up with the perfect solution.Candice is a great guest. She really knows her stuff and is also a truly inspiring entrpreneur.

In this episode I speak to Sarah Ann Macklin, the woman who has been hailed "The Jamie Oliver of the nutrition world".Sarah Ann was scouted as a model when she was a teenager (at a Blue concert). She was soon plunged into the crazy world of modelling which eventually led her to become so ill that she was hospitalised.Fast forward to today and she has totally changed her life and has become one of the UK's most sought after nutritionists.During the episode we talk about her journey and she gives really brilliant advice about the little and simple things that we can do to make a marked difference to our health.You can find out more about Sarah at her website sarahannmacklin.com and also check out her Be Well Collective that helps support and give advice to young models. She also hosts the podcast Live Well Be Well.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about my HRT trial, food prices gone crazy (particularly in Pret a Manger) and I have some really lovely beauty recommendations for you.I'll be chatting through the most delicious and moreish gourmande fragrance that tastes of a freshly baked lemon drizzle cake, one of my favourite Neroli scents ever, the perfect eyeshadow palette and a way to get haircare that is just right for you.Enjoy and if you haven't already do make sure you join our amazing private Facebook Group here.

Bryony's back and she has lots of news from her week doing makeup at Eurovision. She also talks about the hotel that she stayed in and why you should NEVER use a hotel kettle (particularly if Stephen Mulhern has been in the room before you).We also talk about the Fragrance Awards, Duncan from Blue's performance and why a few too many flowers went missing on the night.Later on we chat about our beauty picks which leads to a most excellent conversation about vibrators.All in all a beauty and fun filled episode with the usual shenanigans and laughter!

This episode is partly supported by Silvina LondonIn this episode I meet the utterly fabulous model, actress and brand founder Silvina Neder. Silvina's life totally changed when she decided to embrace her greys. She went from a high-powered job as an executive who travelled the world to becoming a really successful model and actress....and she's never been happier.Silvina's stunning grey hair also inspired her to start her own haircare brand called Silvina London. Her hair products have been formulated to make grey hair bouncy, shiny and never brassy.During the episode we talk about making life changes, dating in later life, following your intuition and why embracing your grey hair might just be the best decision you ever make.You can check out Silvina's beautiful products here

It's The Eve Appeal's Get Lippy Day and in this episode I'm getting lippy with Dr Bella Smith and comedian and Eve Appeal ambassador Karen Hobbs.Bella and I talk about female health, knowing your normal, being open about gynaelogical issues and ALWAYS getting checked at the first sign that something isn't right. We also chat about the incredible work that The Eve Appeal does.Karen tells her story. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer in her 20's and is very open about her story. (She's also one of the funniest women I know).This is such an important and informative episode.If you're worried about your own gynaeological health then all the info you need is hereAlso if you'd like to support the Eve Appeal there are loads of ways you can do so. Check them out here

Bryony is off doing Eurovision makeup and I have a slightly longer episode coming out this Friday so I'm doing a special mid-week Minipod.In this episode I'll tell you all about my experience of the Biosculpture manicure and Elim Pedicure. I'll also discuss why I think orgasms are really important, a stunning perfume and one of my new top mascaras amongst other things.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode I welcome the incredibly creative Sophie Hannah. Sophie is a content creator who is loved for her individual style and inspiring hair, makeup and fashion looks which are always full of colour, flair and individuality.Sophie has just written a book called Beauty, Hair, Style - The New No Rules Beauty Bible and I absolutely love the premise of the book which is basically to express yourself however you want to....in fact the more daring and flamboyant the better. During the episode we chat about how Sophie got into this world and taught herself how to create technically brilliant looks without any training. We also have a great discussion about never being too old to express yourself, how to maintain good mental health, positive thinking and the good and bad sides of social media and the beauty industry. Sophie also has some wonderful product recommendations and skincare tips.Sophie Hannah is so talented yet down to Earth and I absolutely loved getting to know her.

In this episode I talk you through the amazing beauty brands that are helping The Eve Appeal for the entire month of May (Get Lippy Month).The Eve Appeal do so much. They educate about the five types of gynaelogical cancer, have a 24/7 nurse led phone line to support us if we're worried about any symptoms and also fund research into treatment with the aim of stopping cancer before it starts. They are a comparatively small charity with an extraordinary team and I think the world of what they do.If you buy the products mentioned during this episode (plus some of the brands are giving money from other products in their collections), the brands will give 10% or more to the Eve Appeal.Here's a list of all the products and brands mentioned during the episode:11 Skin - Nocturnal Eclipse Recovery CreamIActive Silver - Colloidal Silver Body Butter Augustinus Bader - The Lip BalmBarry M - That’s Swell! Lip PlumpersBlistex - Intensive MoisturiserCanesten - Canesbalance Vaginal Gel,Carmex - Classic PotCentrum - Women MultivitaminsCollection - Gloss Me Up Juicy Infusion Lip GlossDecorté - Rouge Decorté Glow Lipstickdelilah - In Bloom Radiant Liquid Blush Disruptor London - Balance Shampoo, Conditioning, Cleanse and Shave BarDr.PawPaw - Tinted Ultimate Red BalmElemis - Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing BalmEscentric Molecules - Molecule 02Hanx - Condoms Hermetica Paris - Verticaloud Eau de ParfumHilltop - Original Beeswax Lip Balmishga - Replenishing Lip BalmIsle of Paradise - Self-Tanning Face DropsJuni - Luxury Hydrating LipsticksKIKO - Wet Look Lip Gloss PencilLa Perla - Satin Lip BalmManisafe - Gel Manicure GlovesMeAmora - Nail OnMonuskin - Rose & Lemon Enriched Body CreamNARS - Powermatte lipstickNip&Fab - Glycolic Fix 60 PadsParfums de Marly - Delina Eau de ParfumPolished London - Teeth Whitening PenPrai - Ageless Lip & Line FillerRimmel - Moisture Renew Lipstick.Sculpted by Aimee - My Mascara simplehuman - sensor mirror round with touch-control brightnessSparkle Through ChemoTan-Luxe - Super Glow Hyaluronic This is Silk - ‘Power Up’ Silk Barrier BoosterVotary - Tinted Lip Gloss Raspberry and SqualaneW7 - Hot Shot Plumping Gloss

*This episode is in partnership with Medik8*In this episode I welcome back Daniel Isaacs, the brilliant Chief Product Officer and Director of Research at Medik8.Daniel knows SO much about skincare and always gives the very best advice. I love the fact that he and his team at Medik8 take ingredients and really innovate and push boundaries with them, resulting in products that perform at an exceptional level.During the episode we chat all things Retinal and discuss the incredible work that has gone into their new eye cream. We also chat about skincare routines, ingredients that really work and why Dan believes that Vitamin C, SPF and Vitamin A are the perfect combination. (Oh and a good PHA can also work wonders).I learnt so much from Dan during the interview and as ever he got me really excited the science of skincare and my own routine. If you're into skincare and want to feel inspired then I know that you'll love this episode.

One of my favourite guests, the lovely Estee Lalonde, is back and we're talking all things baths.Since her last appearance on the podcast, Estee's beautiful bath brand Mirror Water has gone from strength to strength and Estee is truly living the life of a boss. We reflect on her journey and what it feels like to own your own successful brand.We also spend lots of the episode talking about how important baths are to us, what Estee's gorgeous bath ritual is and how she recently helped a friend in need with the incredible power that a bath can give. We also make a few bath related confessions.This is a lovely conversation that will definitely inspire you to leap into your tub as soon as you have a chance.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about the incredible Weleda launch that I went to this week. If you're into Skin Food then this is definitely going to excite you.I also chat about an ingenious gloss pencil from Kiko Milano, the best SPF for hardcore skin protection, brilliant charity The Eve Appeal and the perfect body oil.

Oh my goodness I don't even know where to start on this one so I might write a list.In this week's episode Bryony and I talk about:Being stuck in GermanyWho can sing the highest noteAthlete's foot and the wrong holeHiding pancakes in a bagCookiesThere is of course lots of beauty in there too and we are raving about some really brilliant makeup finds this week.

*This episode is in partnership with Avon*In this episode I'm joined by Avon who have just launched their incredible new eye product, Anew Power Eye Cream.We start the episode with Clinical Dermatologist Dr Zoya Diwan who takes us on a deep dive into the ins and outs of the skin around our eyes and why we need to treat it differently to the rest of our faces. Zoya gives such a great insight into how to keep our delicate eye area as healthy as possible and also delves into a recent trial that she did with her own patients and the Anew Power Eye Cream. (The results are brilliant).Next I get a bit nerdy with Avon's Global skincare Development Scientist, Dr. Anthony Gonzalez. Anthony is one of the people who led the team that developed the Power Eye Cream and the science is truly incredible. He tells us about why it took many years to develop this product and how the combination of ingredients in the cream make it a real game changer on a number of levels. (It contains Protinol which I have talked about before and has been proven to build collagen 1 and 3).Finally we hear from some of the Outspoken Beauty Panellists who have also been trialling the Power Eye Cream and give their honest opinions about what it has done for them.This is such an interesing episode with a combination of skin education, science and a focus on a product that not only makes a difference to the skin and has years of robust science behind it but that is also affordable...the perfect combination.If you have any questions following the episode feel free to DM me @outspokenbeautynicola and if you want to check out Anew Power Eye Cream you can find it here .

This week's minipod is brimming with recommendations.I start with fragrance and the ultimate sexy orange blossom. I then chat about an incredible perfume brand that produce their fragrances with seasonal ingredients and have a limited amount of perfumes each month that you sign up for.I then move to makeup and one of my favourite current brands 19/99. They have a lip/eye/cheek pencil that is quite possibly the best bright raspberry shade that I've ever come across. I can't get enough!I have lots of other things to tell you about with an excellent hair product, a dreamy cream blush and a mascara that is really impressing me. Oh and my favourite new natural deoderant brand that actually keeps me smelling fresh!!Enjoy xx

In this episode I welcome back the incredible playwright, actress, presenter and volunteer at the refugee charity Care 4 Calais, Matilda Velevitch.Matilda is passionate about helping refugees and also changing our perception of them. It is so easy to see these people as numbers but they are real people with names, careers, hobbies and famililes just like us and they deserve to be treated as such.Matilda has so many stories to tell, some uplifting and positive and some sad and frustrating but I think that she gives a great insight into the current refugee situation in the UK.I realise that this is a bit of a departure from my usual content but it is incredibly important to me that I use this platform as a force for good and a way to give people a voice and Matilda is speaking for a group of people who don't currently have that voice.I hope you get a lot out of this episode and enjoy it too. Matilda is a great great guest and all round inspiring woman.

It was such a pleasure to welcome cosmetic doctor Catharine Denning on the podcast for this skin focussed episode.Catharine is not only incredibly knowledgable and passionate when it comes to all things skin but she speaks so much sense and I know you'll love the advice that she gives when it comes to routines and how to keep our skin vibrant and healthy. (She has some great product recommendations too).I also really enjoyed chatting about tweakments with Catharine. Her approach to the likes of fillers and botox is healthy and balanced and I loved chatting about the moments when she refuses to treat people because she feels that they either want to go too far or are making changes for the wrong reasons. (We had a good delve into the mental health aspect of wanting to change the way we look).I can't tell you how much I warmed to Catharine during this conversation and I know you will too. This is defintiely the episode for you if you're feeling a bit confused about your routine and need a reminder as to what it's worth including in your skincare arsenal. If you have any questions following the episode feel free to DM me @outspokenbeautynicola or Catharine @dr_catherine_denning_cosmetics

In this week's minipod I tell you about a new Murad range that's targeted at really sensitive skin and will really protect your skin's barrier. I also chat about the importance of using SPF, particularly when we're using harsh actives.Following a few health things coming up in a recent set of blood tests, I also talk about the importance of getting things checked and asking your GP for a blood test, particularly if you're feeling a bit tired/down/lacklustre.Finally I tell you a bit about my recent road trip and the most magical theme park ever.

Oh gosh, I don't even know where to start with the description of this week's podcast.In a nutshell, we discuss an idea that my sister and I came up with for Only Fans and Bryony is pretty shocked. Bryony also talks about a rather violent 4D Cinema experience where she was pummelled in the back by her seat. We also chat friend dates, a recent date with Louis that went a bit wrong and of course we have beauty recommendations galore.Remember that Bryony and I would love to answer your dilemmas be they beauty/relationship/sex etc related. Feel free to email us via nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk.

If you've ever looked at Rylan Clark's teeth and thought wow they're white, then you're looking at the work of celebrity dentist Dr Richars Marques. (His celebrity client list reads like an issue of Hello Magazine).Richard isn't just about the celebs though. He comes from a long line of dentists and his knowledge and passion for our oral health is plain for all to see.During the episode we have an amazing chat about the things we can do to keep our teeth and mouths healthy. We also analyse some of the current mouth related Tiktok trends (some of them are truly shocking) and Richard tells us what we should (and REALLY shouldn't) be doing.There's a lot more to this chat including what we can do for our general health and wellbeing and I found it more and more fascinating as we went on.Oral health is so important for so many reasons and Richard is brimming with great advice as well as loads of personality and anecdotes. I think you're going to love him!

In this week's minipod I focus in on a selection of body serums, moisturisers and treatments that have landed on my desk recently.From simple but effective to luxurious and delicious to brimming with actives, there really is something for everyone.I don't always take the time to moisturise my body, but when I do I love the way my skin feels. As I say on the podcast, it's a bit like wearing really lovely underwear :0)

In this episode my guest is the amazing Alex Light @alexlight_london.So many of you have asked for this and I was elated when Alex agreed to join me for a chat.Alex is best known for being a body confidence influencer who works tirelessly to help women across the world feel better in their own skin. During our conversation Alex tells me about the long journey that she has been on to feel good in her own skin. She is so open and honest about the things that led her to have an eating disorder and how she hid it away as she tried to forge a successful career in journalism.We then chat about how things started to change for the better and have led her to become body "neutral" rather than "positive", which is how Alex likes to describe the place that she now finds herself.Alex has great wisdom and I know that so many of us will relate to and learn from this conversation. I also love how she talks about what beauty means to her.Alex is a truly brilliant guest and I can't wait for you to hear this very honest and important episode.

*This episode is in partnership with Dr Paw Paw and their new skincare range YOUR gorgeous SKIN*In this episode I get to know Pauline Paterson, the amazing co-founder of Dr Paw Paw.Pauline talks about the journey that her and husband Johnny have been on to build their incredible business which to this day remains independent.As well as chatting about her journey, Pauline talks about the inspiration for their brand new skincare range "YOUR gorgeous SKIN", a collection of products that have the Papaya at their very heart. They also put the consumer and the environment first, are affordable, original and I think are going to impress many a discerning skincare lover.After hearing from Pauline who will talk us through some of the products and introduce us to her patented ingredient Papayaluronic (a blend of papaya fruit and 8 hyaluronic acids) we get some totally non-biased reviews from some of the Outspoken Beauty Panellists who have trialled the entire YOUR gorgeous SKIN collection.I can't wait for you to get to know Pauline and hear about this exciting new skincare range.

In this week's minipod I talk about some of the trends on Tiktok that most definitely need to be taken with a pinch of salt. I also chat about my night at the CEW Beauty Awards Demonstration Evening where I encountered some incredible brands both old and new.I continue with a chat about a new perfume from Molton Brown that is incredible and a cult perfume that has actually become infamous on Tiktok...I give my views.Finally I have some makeup and skincare recommendations for you...and all in 10 minutes :0)

Bryony and I laughed a lot during the making of this episode.We have a lot to catch up on including surprising occurences on dates, why Bryony might go on Only Fans, our morning at the House of Commons and the man who annoyed us so much that we've christened him skeletor, plus much much more.Of course there's a whole load of fabulous beauty recommendations in there too.We also announce our new Agony Aunt Service. DM us with your problems and we'll try and answer them on the pod!Enjoy Outspoken Beauties and don't listen to this in front of the kids :0)

In this episode I meet the charming actress Gloria John.Gloria tells her incredible story of escaping an abusive father and leaving Korea aged 14. From there she trained to become a dentist and eventually pursued her dream of acting. She is now starring in the Amazon Prime dark comedy The Consultant.During the episode Gloria tells her story from leaving home at a young age to conquering Hollywood.(I love her honesty and authenticity).Later we chat about what beauty menas to her and go into her love of Korean skincare, false lashes and explore some of the things that she does for her health and wellbeing.Gloria was so wonderful to interview and her episode is as fascinating as it is inspiring.

In this episode I start with an honest chat about how hard it is when relatives become ill and how when you are in your 40's you suddenly find that your responsibilities can increase in quite a challenging way.This then leads to a chat about the joy of red lipstick and how I found myself reaching for one today to give me a bit of strength and joy at a hard time. I then chat through some of my favourite red lippies of the moment.Finally, in celebration of National Fragrance Week I have a brief chat about why fragrance is so important on so many levels.Do get in touch if you'd like to continue any of the conversations that I start on the podcast. You can always DM me on Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.

In this episode I chat to psychologist, author and scientist Dr Meg Arroll.Meg and I use her new book "Tiny Traumas" as a starting point for a fascinating and enlightening chat about the things that we face in our everday lives that can affect us and leave us with a certain amount of trauma that we often just push aside.Meg tells us how we can deal with this trauma and talks about the importance of taking the time to understand how things affect us and how we can work to make our lives easier by dealing with the little things that build up.Whilst this episode is not directly beauty related, I am as ever a strong believer that beauty is about so much more about what is on the outside. We need to deal with what's on the inside in all it's guises whether that's mental or physical health.I hope you get lots out of this episode xx

In this episode I welcome back the brilliant toxicologist Rani Ghosh. Rani and I chat about the recent issues that people have allegedly been having with Olaplex and what exactly is going on from her point of view.We also delve into fragrance in skincare and best before dates on our beauty products.Rani is such a font of knowledge and I love picking her brains and putting all of our minds at ease when it comes to our beauty products.Make sure you give her a follow on Instagram @rani_ert.

In this week's Minipod I talk about the clothes shop that has finally delivered the jeans of my dreams (clue: it's high street and they were less than £50).I also mention a bronzing water that I can't get enough of, an iconic lip balm that is way out performing the rest and go through a few last minute ideas for Mother's Day. (I realise that this is a day that not everyone celebrates but if you are looking to celebrate an important friend, mentor, relative or indeed your mum then I've got you covered).

In this episode we talk about my experience at "Forbidden Nights - A Sexy Circus" (a very interesting night that took place at my sister's local theatre. Bryony has been to the far classier Magic Mike and has her own stories to tell.Later on we chat lube (a very imporant topic I'll have you know) and Amsterdam. Then it's down to business and as ever we have our beauty picks of the fortnight for you.xx

*This episode is in partnership with Avon*When Avon came to me with the idea for this International Women's Day Special I was so excited. The episode is all about following your career dreams and making them a reality.My first guest is Holly Tucker MBE, the founder of Notonthehighstreet and Holly & Co. Holly is the UK Ambassador to Creative Small Businesses and she believes that following your passion and building a business doing what you love is the key to a happy and fulfilled life.During the episode Holly gives loads of inspiration and guidance and I just know that if you do have an idea for your own business that you are desperate to start, Holly's words of wisdom might just be the push that you need.Later on I speak to the equally inspiring Amie Darlow. Amie's entire life changed when she became an Avon Rep. She has built up an incredible business and has never felt happier. Her story is both emotional and so very uplifting. I just know that you'll get a lot out of this episode and I can't wait to hear if it inspires you to follow your own personal dreams.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about the fact that none of my clothes fit me and how I can't find anything in the shops because it turns out my current size doesn't actually exist.In other news, I've found a GREAT SPF from Beauty Pie, the barrier protector of dreams from Paula's Choice and I'm talking green eyeshadow and Child's Farm which is one of my favourite ever brands.Enjoy xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I chat to Lauren O'Connell, the Beauty Editor of Cosmopolitan Middle East.Lauren chats about the incredible way that she landed her dream job and what life in Dubai is like. We then go on to chat about Lauren's Beauty Habits which are incredibly informative as this is one editor who knows a LOT about skin.I think you're going to really enjoy this fun and educational episode :0)

In this episode I get to know Hollywood actress and Harvey Weinstein survivor Sarah Ann Masse.Sarah tells us about her experience of being interviewed by Harvey (it's not easy listening) and how once she came out about what had happened to her, she found herself being blacklisted by many of the major players in Hollywood.Not one to give up easily, Sarah created an organisation called Hire Survivors Hollywood that helps other women who have been in a similar situation to her and that helped her to land one of the main parts in the massive movie "She Said".This is a powerful episode and shows that you should never give up, even when you feel like everything around you is falling apart.You can find Sarah on Instagram @sarahannmasse.

In this week's Minipod I have a recommendation for what I think might be one of the sexiest fragrances I've ever smelt. I also chat about why I'm using an intense azelaic acid product, how I'm keeping my fringe looking fresh and non-greasy and I talk about denim dilemmas and the horrors of "hold you in" underwear. Finally I give you a simple tip that's really helped me overcome certain areas of my anxiety.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode Bryony and I have a debate about short men and the patriachy (don't ask), I talk about my experience at a recent family gathering where a few people thought I might be pregnant and Bryony also plays a trick on me involving a hat.We of course do get round to talking about our beauty and wellbeing tips which this week include a fabulous magazine, a stretching course, a cheap but really effective hand and nail cream and a wax hair spray.

In this episode I welcome incredible trichologist Anabel Kingsley onto the podcast.Anabel is just my kind of woman...BS free, honest and incredibly knowledgeable.During the episode we chat about how we can all keep our hair as healthy as possible and then we focus in on the two main types of female hair loss and the steps we can take to sort things out if that's what we choose to do.I'm aware that seeing a trichologist is expensive and Anabel gives great tips for those of us who need solutions without being able to see a specialist.This is such an informative episode and I hope it helps lots of you!

In this week's Minipod I talk a bit about my amazing consultation with Dr Anita Sturnham. I also chat about how my skin has gone a bit crazy since a recent Chinese takeaway and glass or two of prosecco.Later I tell you about a fabulous new lipstick, a great product if your skin barrier is compromised and why I'm loving my new khaki liquid liner.Remember you can join the Outspoken Beauty community of Facebook by searching for The Outspoken Beauty Club.

In this episode I speak to aesthetician to the stars (we're talking Kim K, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Alba amongst others), Nurse Jamie.Jamie talks about her journey to becoming one of the most renowned Hollywood skin experts and shares her views on the benefits of facial massage and laser amongst many other things.It was really interesting hearing Jamie's views on skin health and getting to know about Jamie's journey to success.

In this episode I have the honour of interviewing beauty editor and now author extraordinaire, the absolutely brilliant Anita Bhagwandas.Anita has written one of the best and I think most important books that I have read in a long long time. It is called Ugly - Giving Us Back Our Beauty Standards and during the book not only does Anita explore how society's beauty standards came about but also tells her own personal and at times very emotional experience of feeling ugly and how it has shaped her own life.During the episode we talk about Anita's career in beauty and why she was drawn to the industry. We also chat about her dream role at Stylist and how she used her voice to change attitudes towards beauty via the articles that she wrote.We then look at Anita's experience of "Ugly" and how it shaped her incredible book.This is an episode not to be missed and please please buy this book not only for yourself but for any woman who has any doubted her worth. (It's available on Amazon and at Waterstones).

In this week's Minipod I have some lovely beauty recommendations for you including the most beautiful Spring scent, the perfect brow filler, some amazing Laura Mercier products and I chat about my experience of glitter lips.

In this episode Bryony and I have a good old catch up. Bryony has been working on Britain's Got Talent and we have a debate about a man can undress whilst on a Unicycle. I also teach Bryony some surprising facts about ducks, we discuss my new fringe and of course have some beauty recommendations for you, including a brand new and very exciting release from IT Cosmetics.There's lots more. Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode I get to know "Tapping Queen" and author of "Tapping In - Manifest The Life You Really Want", Poppy Delbridge. Poppy has been helping people fight anxiety, re-centre themselves and manifest happiness with the power of rapid tapping for many years and is adored by the likes of Fearne Cotton who features her on her Happy Place app.During the episode Poppy tells me what led her to choose tapping as her career. (She is really honest about the things that were going on in her own life at that time). She also explains how rapid tapping works and even does a little session with me on the podcast.I really like Poppy and having used tapping recently to good effect, I believe in what she is doing.I think you're going to be very inspired by Poppy not only because of her amazing tapping technique but becuse of how she has built her career so brilliantly.

In this week's Minipod I question whether I'm the only person in the world who likes those little ice-cream mochi balls. I also talk about a sublime fragrance that is meant to represent Paris, the very best concealer, a cheap and cheerful lip-balm that has totally sorted my poor dry lips, the power of a fringe and I also have some TV recommendations for you.Finally I tell you why I recommend that you pre-order the amazing book Ugly written by one of my favourite beauty editors of all time Anita Bhagwandas. Enjoy xx

How excited am I about this episode!I'm welcoming the incredible Rani Ghosh who is not only a total skincare and beauty lover but just so happens to be a dermal toxicologist which means that she's one of the women who makes sure that our skincare is absolutely and undoubtedly safe.In a world of beauty green-washing, clean-washing and fear-mongering, Rani is a welcome voice of calm and reason and she REALLY knows her stuff.I feel honoured and excited to have someone who works in toxicology on the podcast especially when they're as eloquent and fabulous as Rani.You should leave the episode feeling far more confident in the products you buy and the beauty industry at large. You can find Rani on Instagram @rani_ert

In this episode I speak to the throughly inspiring Danielle Edmonds.Born and raised in Jamaica by her Mum and Grandma, Danielle was signed by a modelling agency as well as being the co-captain of Jamaica's Basketball team.Later, Danielle moved to New York where amongst doing many incredible things, she launched her business Stay Golden Cosmetics which is an incredibly empowering beauty brand. During the episode you'll hear Danielle's amazing story, how she perfected the glitter lip, what beauty means to her and also we'll explore some of her own gorgeous beauty habits.I can't wait for you to get to know Danielle and I guarantee that by the end of the episode that you'll be wanting to rock glittery lips!!

In this week's Minipod I tell you about my very "classy" meal last night, why I'm freaking out about Sunday and then I go on to chat about some lovely makeup bits, fragrance, a great body oil and lots more xx

Makeup artist extraordinaire and all round lovely lady Bryony Blake is back and this week we're talking fear of flying courses (I'm trying to face my biggest fear of all), Britain's Got Talent and why Bryony will never be auditioning for it, my disastrous X Factor audition and lots more.We do of course get round to beauty with all sorts of recommendations including some stand out products for hair, a beautiful fragrance and some incredible makeup bits.

This Episode is In Partnership With AvonIn this episode I'm exploring the most amazing new lipstick launch from Avon with some of my favourite people. Hydramatic Matte is a worldwide first. It's a matte with an incredible hydrating core that makes it feel as smooth as silk. It also has great staying power and the most beautiful range of pigments.The episode starts with me and Bryony Blake chatting all things lipstick...what it means to us, our first memories of it, why it can be the ultimate confidence boost and even make a political statement. Then we go on to chat about some of the challenges of wearing regular matte lipsticks and why hydramatic matte can really help.After my lovely chat with Bryony I catch up with the amazing Holly Roberts from Avon. She knows all there is to know about makeup and we have an incredible chat about the science of the lipstick and the inspiration behind it.Finally I catch up with some of the brilliant Outspoken Beauty Panellists who have been trialling Hydramatic Matte and give their honest opinions of their experiences.I hope you really enjoy this episode and getting to know all about one of the best lippies I've tried in a long time. You can find them here.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about some of my favourite statement fragrances. From the overtly sexy to the ones that make me feel like a superhero to the pretty scent with a naughty edge, these perfumes are full of character and all make me feel truly amazing in different ways.Here's what I mention during the episode:Kilian Good Girl Gone BadGuerlain MitsoukoJovoy Fire at WillRovert Piguet FracasChanel Le LionThe Perfumers Story Sequoia WoodSana Jardin Berber BlondeSerge Lutens Fleur D'OrangerMatiere Premiere Radical Rose

The amazing Paula Begoun (founder of Paula's Choice) is back and she has loads of brilliant skincare advice for us. Paula has an extensive knowledfge of what really works when it comes to skin and I really respect her no nonsense and outspoken opinions on the world of beauty.I hope you enjoy learning from this incredible woman.

I have a feeling you're going to absolutely love this episode!I'm chatting to chemical engineer, skincare formulator and educator Cigdem Kemal Yilmaz. Cigdem has the most amazing knowledge of skincare formulation and what to look for when choosing our skincare.During the episode Cigdem shares her five top rules that we can all apply when deciding whether a product is worth buying or not. She also chats through some of her very favourite ingredients and spends time talking through some of the brands that really stand out to her.I felt like I learnt a great deal from Cigdem and loved the way that she shares her extensive knowledge of skincare.If you'd like to learn even more the I recommend that you give her a follow on Instagram @skinmasterclass.

This week's Minipod is brimming with lovely beauty products. From the brand new Dermalogica Retinol Serum to a perfume that smells like a warm hug to a wonderfully intense do it all moisturiser to fabulous eye pencils, there are lots of great recommendations.I also chat about a lovely jewellery brand that is both affordable and perfect if you're after hypoallergenic earrings and tell you about my experience of builder gel. Enjoy Outspoken Beauties x

Bryony is back from Thailand (yay) and has got loads to tell us about her holiday. Meanwhile I've been having a few issues with Alexa which become quite apparent during the episode and we both have a chat about our mutual love of bidets (and in Bryony's case toilet hoses!!)We also have some really great beauty recommendations and Bryony tells us about a must - read book and her must haves for long haul flights.It's so lovely to have Bryony back on the pod. xx

In this episode I chat to top nutritionist, naturopathic doctor and founder of @artahhealth, Rhian Stephenson.Rhian, who was also the CEO of Psycle has a special interest in and incredible amount of knowledge about womens' health, specifically when it comes to how our hormones affect us. During this episode we have an in depth discussion about each week of our monthly cycle and how the fluctuations in hormones can have a huge effect on how we feel both physically and mentally.This episode is so empowering because it equips us with knowledge that helps us get to know our bodies better and how to treat them so that we can feel as good as possible by getting in tune with our cycles. I have learnt so much from Rhian and she has already made a difference to my life. I really hope she does the same for you xx

In this week's Minipod I tell you about my current ear piercing frenzy and also have exciting news about my new working environment.After that it's all about beauty with biodegradable sheet masks, exciting new fragrances, a great solution if your nails aren't quite as you want them and a truly excellent aromatherapy brand.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by a personal hero of mine. (and my kids)..BAFTA winning presenter, author and YouTuber Maddie Moate.If you have children you're bound to have come across Maddie. She's the woman behind cult show "Do You Know" on CBeebies and during lockdown she literally saved us when alongside her partner Greg, she created a daily educational show on her YouTube channel called Let's Go Live. Every day at 11am Poppy and Louis would sit mesmerised as Maddie and Greg used their creative genius and amazing knowledge to make us all laugh and learn. They really did make lockdown more manageable for us all.As well as being a talented author, broadcaster and so much more, Maddie has a real passion for beauty and during this episode we chat about what it means to her and she goes through some of the products that she adores. We also talk about what led her to her fascinating career, panto life and so much more.Whether you've come across Maddie or not, I have a feeling that you're going to really love getting to know her. You can find Maddie on Instagram @maddiemoate where her linktree will lead you to all her brilliant projects and shows.

The first part of this episode is in partnership with Tula SkincareI start this episode with a brilliant chat with gastroenterologist and founder of Tula Skincare Dr Roshini Raj. Having met Dr Raj when she was in London, I was so impressed by the way that she has combined years of medicine and a true passion for probiotics and has gone on to found a skincare brand that brings together her extensive experience and knowledge. I think you'll find Dr Raj's attitude to caring for skin really refreshing and I love the fact that Tula really does put barrier and skin health first.In the second past of the podcast I chat to psychotherapist and author Charlotte Fox Weber. Charlotte, who has written a book exploring 12 desires that she believes are universal, is absolutely fascinating and gives such a good insight into the world of psychotherapy, what it can do for us and also delves into the psychology behind beauty and what makes us feel good. I absolutely loved getting to know Charlotte and really recommend her book "What We Want - A Journey Through 12 of Our Deepest Desires".I hope this episode enlightens you as much as it did me xx

In this week's Minipod I talk about a very special fragrance that I treated me and Chris to for Christmas, the most amazing, affordable glass cabinet that now homes my perfume collection and why I'm definitely eating all the delicious chips even though it's January. Oh and I also mention my very best concealer of the moment.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties x

It's a new year and Bryony and I are here to cheer you up with our first episode of 2023.Expect all the usual fun including why I'm absolutely MORTIFIED that someone spotted me in my local Tesco, talk of the Chritsmas that went wrong and great excitement at some of our top beauty buys of 2022 plus much much more.We hope this episode brings a smile to your face if you're feeling a bit Januaryish xx

In this episode I look back at some of the things that I've learnt in 2022 and there are quite a few of them let me tell you!I also thank you for being a part of the Outspoken Beauty community. It means so much to me!Happy New Year Outspoken Beauties and hope this episode helps/inspires you xx

In this week's Outspoken Beauty Awards I'm focusing in on the hand and nail products that have stood out to me the most this year.I'll be telling you about great hand moisturisers, fabulous nail polishes and oils and the best products for strong and healthy nails.All of these brands and products are great and never let me down.

Ladies and Gentlemen she's officially back. It's my annual festive catch up with the one and only Cher Webb and we had SO much to chat about.During the episode we talk about making changes for the better, giant Elf duvets, lighting up our houses and Cher gets sentimental about Christmas trees. We also talk about signature fragrances, laser hair removal, budgie catching and have an unexpected chat about our bottoms.There are beauty recommendations too and so much more....this really is a lovely episode that we hope will get you giggling and feeling full of festive cheer.

I start this episode with a sponsored review of Loving Tan. As you'll hear I have been incredibly impressed with their products and in particular love their facial tan which is easy to apply and gives you a beautiful and really quick glow. Following this I welcome my lovely friend, the amazing dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting back on the podcast for a catch up about all things skin and wellbeing. Sam chats about the things that she does that make her feel great, including the bath salts that she swears by, her favourite spa experience (that involves being smacked with branches of birch) and how she gets herself in flow.It was so lovely to chat to Sam and I hope you love this episode and find it inspiring xx

In this week's Outspoken Beauty Awards I'm listing my top skincare products of the year.From cleansers to serums to exfoliants to masks to moisturisers, it's all here.There are so many wonderful skincare brands out there but these are the products and brands that have really stood out to me.Here are the brands I mention:Dr Sam BuntingCliniqueThe Body ShopSuperdrugCeraveExuvianceSkin Better ScienceWillowberryMV SkintherapyLumeneDermalogicaClinisoothe PlusAvonPam Marshall - Mortar and MilkAltruistLa Roche PosayGarnier

The amazing LC is back for her final Beauty News ever (sob) although she's promised to come back on the pod as a guest next year (yay).This week we're talking Harry and Meghan, beauty boxes, The Ordinary and so much more. Get ready for opinions galore.

In this episode fragrance journalist and expert extraordinaire and my great friend and co-host of The On The Scent podcast, Suzy Nightingale joins me for a festive chat. From the outfit, lipstick and fragrance that Suzy will wear on Christmas Day to the ex-boyfriend who ruined her wreath making to the mistletoe hat that failed me, this chat is full of laughter and our shared passion for beauty and scent. Oh and we also have a slightly naughty chat about The Princess of Wales.....I really really hope she doesn't listen to this podcast!Anyway....we hope this episode brings a smile to your face.

The Outspoken Beauty Awards 2022 are here.Listen to today's podcast and you'll hear my top beauty products of the year all of which I think are absolutely incredible. Here are the amazing brands that I mention:Daniel SandlerMonika BlunderNudestixBlink Brow Bar LondonBenefitClarinsChantecailleChanelRose IncLottie LondonLancomeScuplted by AimeeLisa EldridgeBare MineralsDr Sam BuntingPam MarshallTypologyJones RoadNarsLaura MercierIT CosmeticsGiorgio ArmaniEsseTrish McEvoyEyeco

The gorgeous Bryony Blake is back and we're talking about escaping boobs, defrosting pets, brilliant board games and the best show Bryony's ever seen.After that we've got lots of gift ideas for you including an utterly random but brilliant vegetable related one from Bryony and an affordable fragrant gift that keeps on giving xx

In this episode I interview Nathalie Issa, the star of the Netflix film The Swimmers.Nathalie plays the part of Yusra Mardini who is training to be an Olympian swimmer in Syria when she has to flee the coutry with her sister and cousin. What follows (in this true story) is their journey as refugees which includes swimming a sinking boat of fellow refugees to safety in the sea.The film is exceptional in the way that it humanises refugees and Nathalie's performance is breathtaking.During the episode we chat about how Nathalie had to face one of her biggest fears to take on the role, filming with her sister, how she conveyed Yusra so authentically and we chat about Nathalie's own story which involves leaving Lebanon for a life in France.Later we chat about Nathalie's views on beauty and what it means to her. I adored getting to know Nathalie. She is so incredibly honest and authentic and I think you'll her find her story and views on beauty fascinating.

This week's Minipod is quite an eclectic one. I have a great film recommendation for you, talk about Hannah Martin's incredible makeup brush set that she's launched with Ciate and I have a brilliant solution for keeping BO at bay. There's also a few great gift ideas and I tell you why I Marks and Spencer very nearly gave me the shock of my life.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm speaking to Grammy award winning singer Kelli-Leigh.Kelli tells us about the ups and downs of her career as a session singer, what it was like being a backing singer for Adele and why she has now started her own independent label. We also chat about her Christmas release "Unwrap My Heart" and why it would be her absolute dream to get a Christmas number one.Later we chat through Kelli's beauty habits from her favourite makeup, to her ultimate beauty hack to her perfect bath and why Beauty Pie really works for her.This is a lovely episode and I'm rooting for Kelli-Leigh and her Christmas Single (which you'll hear a bit of at the end of the episode).If you fancy supporting Kelli-Leigh make sure you give Unwrap My Heart a download on Spotify or Apple xx

In this episode I chat to the amazing Kelly Crump. Kelly was diagnosed with incurable cancer but has made it her mission not only to raise awareness but also to have fun.Her attitude to life is incredibly inspiring and as you'll hear, she makes the decision each day to make the best of everything that she can.Whilst cancer is sometimes a really hard topic to discuss, I think it is an important one and it's amazing to hear how Kelly is dealing with it.

In this week's Minipod I briefly chat about my experience of breathing physiotherapy which is great for those of us who suffer with anxiety and perhaps don't breathe in the right way.Then I chat through some beautiful beauty gift ideas including the brand new candle from Neom and an affordable aromatherapy brand that I adore.

I think that this might be one of my favourite ever episodes with Bryony Blake. We had such fun recording it with much snorting with laughter.During our chat we cover embarrassing moments both singing and being sung at, when everyone at the party can dance except you, Christmas promises, cinema visits gone wrong and why Bryony gets a whole load of song lyrics wrong.We also do a great beauty edit this week and cover affordable (and amazing) makeup, supersonic hairdryers, the ultimate skincare product and the most amazing spa experience.Enjoy xx

It's time for your weekly beauty news update with LC. This week we're talking beauty innovation at Dyson, amazing pro-ageing messaging from Julia Fox, the future of showers and loads more. (We also discuss why I ate way too much of a pudding that I was meant to be sharing with Laura and why she finds raisins extremely offensive.I love this girl and her news updates are brilliant.

*This episode is in partnership with L'Occitane*If you're starting to think about the festive season and have decided that this is the year that you want to give gifts that are truly meaningful then this episode is definitely for you.I'm talking to the lovely Valentina Cavallaro and Millie Lloyd, both of whom have worked for L'Occitane for many years and as you'll hear are totally passionate about the brand and everything that it stands for.During the episode we discuss why gifting feels different this year and how we want to give gifts that are meaningful and do good whilst making the recipients truly happy. We then chat through all the amazing things that L'Occitane are doing for their producers, the environment, women and so much more and why they are the perfect choice for gifts this year.It is so good to get a real insight into a brand and this is a great opportunity to get to the heart of L'Occitane and to learn why it is so much more than a great collection of products.This is a brand that I have loved for as long as I can remember and this episode truly makes me love them even more. Enjoy it Outspoken Beauties xx

In this week's Minipod I'm answering the questions all.of the questions you've been sending me on Instagram.There's quite a lot here from festive makeup to products to make you glow to Christmas present ideas to hair products and lots more. Oh and I also go through some Black Friday beauty deals.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties 💋

I can't wait for you to hear this incredibly life-affirming and inspiring episode with broadcaster and author Siobhan Daniels."Approaching retirement and frustrated with her job, Siobhan Daniels made a BIG decision: to start living life on her own terms. Rather than hiding from life’s challenges, she bought a motorhome and drove off to find them."In this episode Siobhan and I chat about what led to her decision and how she is now living her absolute best life. Siobhan's story is proof that anything is possible and that with an incredible amount of bravery and a large dose of determination you truly can live your best life!You can find Siobhan at shuvonshuvoff.co.uk and her book is called The Retirement Rebel.

LC is back with the news and this week there's all sorts of beauty industry gossip. What's going on with the founder of Revolution? Is it the end for Revlon? Are the robots coming? And is it right that we might all have the opportunity to smell a bit like Whitney Houston?Listen to find out.........

In this episode I meet the utterly lovely Michael Douglas and we have a thoroughly good chinwag.Our conversation takes us on a brilliant journey through Michael's happy childhood, his love of motorbikes, his near death experience and the good looking guy in his town who inspired his entire career.Michael also talks about his relationship with Davina McCall, life as a celebrity hairdresser, his mission to help us with our hair dilemmas and why he has now become an entrepreneur.I loved getting to know Michael - he's great and can't wait to share this episode with you.

In this week's Minipod I talk you through my budget skincare edit. These products perform really well and are proof that you don't need to spend lots to get good results from your skincare.Here's what I mention:Garnier anti dark spots and anti pollution super UV50 plusAltruist face fluid spf50 Altruist cleansing foam 2% salicylic acidCerave hydrating cleanserSuperdrug b melting balm Body shop camomile sumptuous cleansing butterInkey list oat cleansing balm The ordinary granactive retinoid 2% in squalane The ordinary retinol in squalane 0.2%Avon anew renewal protinol power serumVictoria health garden of wisdom vitamin C 23% plus ferulic acid The Ordinary Multipeptide plus HA SerumWeleda Skin FoodThe Ordinary natural moisturising factors Cerave moisturising creamInkey list:Water creamPeptide moisturiser Inkey List caffeine eye cream Clinisoothe Plus

It's Bryony Blake's fortnightly episode and this week we're talking about why Bryony would be brilliant on I'm A Celebrity, being naughty in Liberty, when makeup goes wrong and a fabulous Christmas event that I went to.We do of course also chat through our beauty picks of the fortnight.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties! xx

LC is back with your weekly beauty news update.This week we get quite heated talking about fair working hours, copy cat brands, crying makeup, original ideas and where beauty is headed. In fact this isn't only news...it's a full on beauty debate.Enjoy xx

* This episode is in partnership with Vida Glow*In this episode I meet the amazing Anna Lahey who is the founder of Vida Glow, one of the world's leading ingestible beauty brands.Anna shares the story of how an encounter with marine collagen during a trip to Japan changed her life forever and inspired her to start her own brand. Anna tells me why she believes that ingestible beauty really can make a huge difference and how it is a sector of the beauty industry that she predicts will grow and grow. We also talk about the importance of independent clinical trials, why we the consumer need to be able to trust brands and also Anna opens up about some of her own personal struggles along the way.Anna is so refreshing....she's honest and open about her brand and story and is so obviously passionate about what she does. I felt truly inspired by her and that anything is possible if you really put your heart and soul into it. If you'd like to try Vida Glow products then you can find them at uk.vidaglow.com. Their new Clear range which targets acne will be available from Harrods on 21st November and online from 5th December.

In this week's Minipod I'm going through the contents of my makeup bag. There are some old favourites as well as some great new bits that I'm loving.These are my everyday staples and as promised I'm listing them here for you:BareMinerals - Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel CreamSculpted By Aimee Beauty Base in Golden GlowBBB London Ultra Slim Brow Definer in CloveLaura Mercier Secret CamouflageMonika Blunder Lipstick in FlorenceTypology Tinted Balm in Coral OrangeNARS Radiant Creamy ConcealerCharlotte Tilbury Eye Colour Magic Duo in Green Lights Metallic Lancome Idole Mascara in Glossy BlackLottie London Super Fake MascaraHourglass Unlocked MascaraChantecaille Radiance Gel BronzerLisa Eldridge Lipstick in Strawberry ShockDr Paw Paw balm in pinkDr Sam Bunting Tinted Lip BalmChanel Le Rouge Duo in Darling PinkMAC Extra Dimension Blush in Cheeky BitsLisa Eldridge Liquid Lurex in EmilyOxygenetix Oxygenating FoundationNARS Tinted Moisturiser

In this episode I welcome the brilliant Louise Boyce aka Mama Still Got It.Louise, who is known (amongst many other things) for her hilarious depictions of toddler life on Instagram and TikTok (she's the one who uses the plastic doll hands), is also a model, author and blogger.During the podcast we chat about the ups and downs of Louise's life as a model, how the random gift of a pair of plastic hands inspired her in a big way and Louise also has lots of brilliant hacks for saving money when it comes to our beauty purchases. (Louise has been working with Avon who have done a massive research project regarding the amount of stuff we buy but never use).Louise's ideas are brilliant as is the entire episode. She's a great guest and I love her honesty, humour and great tips and know you will too!

Laura's back and we're both recovering from half term as well as the fact that the only beauty news around is about a hairy snail. Therefore this week is a bit more of a totally random chat that encompasses everything from Disney Princesses to bottom wipes to the lipstick effect to why you should never let Father Christmas phone your child.Beauty News is back next week...in the meantime hope this makes you giggle xx

In this episode I get to know the brilliant Dawn O'Porter.Dawn has written the most incredible book called Cat Lady (I devoured it in 3 hours) and we have a great chat about the main character and how her life falls apart in the book plus what we can learn from how she mends it.We also talk about our relationships with various pets and our husbands, there's a shocking story about marmite, Dawn explains her love of kaftans and tells me why she'll never change her hairstyle.Dawn also talks about what beauty means to her and discusses some of the most meaningful beauty products in her life.I only had half an hour to chat with Dawn but I honestly could have recorded for an entire day without getting antsy. She's intelligent, funny, creative and totally happy with who she is. (I left the interview feeling that there's lots to learn from her attitude to life). I know that you'll love this episode.

In this week's Minipod I talk about the two skincare products that are keeping my hormonal skin in check. I also tell you about an interesting perimenopause test that I'm about to take, explain why I'm recording from an American diner and tell you about some incredible Chanel and Dior fragrances. Enjoy xx

The delightful Bryony Blake is back and this week it's all about our joint love of strong salt and vinegar crisps, why Bryony has been hanging out in haunted houses and how olive oil really can be the answer to everything. We've also got a gorgeous advent calendar recommendation, a fragrance that I can't get enough of and lots more fabulous beauty ideas for you.

It's the perfect start to your week! Beauty journalist extraordinaire Laura Capon is back with your beauty news update and this week we're talking meeting at the Sephora event, Makeup by Mario, research into a vaccine for acne, Jared Leto, cults, Halloween, sustainability and what Jeremy Clarkson has to do with the beauty industry.Prepare yourself...... :0)

In this episode I'm chatting to Roxie Nafousi. Roxie, who is known to many as the Queen of Manisfestation, is a self-development coach and manifesting expert and recently wrote The Sunday Times Bestseller "Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life".During the episode we chat about the ups and downs of Roxie's life and what led her to manifestation. Roxie also gives tips on how we can improve our lives and get what we truly want.Roxie isn't my first guest to wax lyrical about manifestation and even though in the past I might have been a little bit cynical, I do wonder if I'm coming round a tiny bit. Have a listen and let me know what you think!

In this week's Minipod I chat about Wednesday night's big and very glamorous Sephora event, making my own perfume, the massage oil that I can't be without and the matte lipgloss that has impressed me.I also give two very different but equally brilliant book recommendations.

The fabulous Bryony Blake is back and in this episode we're talking about our amazing experience making candles at Jo Loves, whether it's wrong to dip a chocolate bar in your tea, when wedding speeches go terribly wrong and about an embarrassing body issue that has hit me now I'm 42.After our chat we go into this week's beauty edit and we share our favourite 6 products of the moment.

It's that time of the week again when Laura Capon is here to keep us abreast of all the latest beauty news.This week we're talking Elon Musk's repugnant sounding scent, robotic manicures, the world of menopausal skincare and we even get a little bit political.Enjoy :0)

In this episode I get to know the incredibly successful and creative entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore.Marcia is the woman who came up with Bliss Spas, Soap and Glory, Fit Flop, Soaper Duper and most recently Beauty Pie, a company that disrupts the beauty industry by allowing us access to products almost at cost price.During the episode we talk about how Marcia came up with the concept for Beauty Pie and why she always puts the consumer at the heart of what she does. Marcia gives us a great insight into how the beauty industry works and why we often pay way above the odds. We also get to know what makes this brilliant entrepreneur tick, her relationship with clothes and why she dislikes shopping.I loved interviewing this industry icon and can't wait for you to hear her story and opinions.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking bad clothing purchases, two products that make your body glow but in very different ways, affordable perfume and an interesting way to eat your daily greens. Enjoy x

*This Episode Is In Partnership With Bare Biology*I am so excited about this episode. It's with Melanie Lawson who in my opinion is one of the most trustworthy, kind and exceptional brand founders in the wellbeing space.Melanie tells me why her anxiety, pre and post natal depression led her to change her life completely and launch an omega 3 brand that for me is truly one of the best in the world.Melanie is so honest and upfront about her mental health and also really helps us to understand how omega 3's can help us.After a brilliant chat with Melanie we hear from some of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who have partaken in a two month trial of the Bare Biology Life and Soul mini-capsules. The results have been breath-taking and I can't wait for you to hear them.If you fancy finding out more about Melanie and her products then head to barebiology.com.

Laura Capon aka LC is back with her incredible beauty news to start the week. This week she's talking scary beauty launches, Sephora, Ozzy Osbourne, beauty advent calendars and explaining why all hasn't been well in the world of Revolution Beauty. You're going to love it!!

*This episode is in partnership with MV Skintherapy*In this episode I get to know the truly brilliant Sharon McGlinchey. Sharon is a celebrated celebrity facialist and founder of the fantastic skincare brand MV Skintherapy.During the episode Sharon and I talk about her journey in skincare and why she has always been passionate about healing and caring for the skin whilst being one of the true rebels in the industry. We then explore how she started MV and why her strong moral compass and quest for perfection has led her to source the very best ingredients and create products that are not only beautiful but are highly effective.After a great chat with Sharon we hear from some of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who have been testing MV Skintherapy products for the last couple of months. They give their honest reviews.This is a great episode with a truly inspiring woman. If you fancy finding out more about Sharon and the MV Skintherapy range then check out mvskintherapy.co.uk.

In this week's Minipod I talk a bit about Beauty Pie and their cleanser that I can't get enough of. I also remind you about the benefits of using Clinisoothe Plus and delve back into the world of deodorants (I'm still trying to find one that ticks all the boxes).Remember to join our brilliant private Facebook Group The Outspoken Beauty Club and DM me @outspokenbeautynicola if you fancy joining the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel.

She's back and hopefully she's here to stay. Beauty editor and all round amazing lady Laura Capon aka LC joins me for her first beauty news update. (Prepare for news of new launches, beauty trends and interesting points of view all with a dash of humour).We're hoping to make this a regular part of the podcast and would LOVE your feedback. Also if you have any questions for Laura then ask away. She is a fountain of knowledge.Enjoy this new addition to the podcast Outspoken Beauties.

Nadine Baggott loves him and for very good reason! In this episode I'm chatting to the one and only Julian Sass aka @Skamander14.Julian is a scientist and product developer but is perhaps best known for his definitive guide to sunscreen (his SPF Database) which you can find via his brilliant Instagram Page (see above).During the episode we talk great sunscreen, laugh about some of the trials that he has done and we have a really honest eye opener of a conversation about the skincare industry in general and just how different things are in the US compared to the UK.Julian is funny, sassy and incredibly well informed and I just know that if you are interested in skincare you will get so much out of this episode.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about candle making at Jo Loves (the most amazing experience), an app to help you reframe negative and anxious thoughts, the most perfect, glowey cheek balm and another candle that captures the smell of a lush, green garden to perfection. I also have exciting news about a new regular item on the podcast.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

Bryony is back and this time we're talking belly buttons (it turns out Bryony is slightly scared of them), vegan cheese (I had an experience of it recently and was slightly disturbed) and creepy men.I also tell Bryony about my slightly stalkerish moment with Louis Theroux and Bryony explains why a turkey might be the ultimate pet.We of course end up chatting through our beauty picks of the week which include a product that I like to call my "weighty matey", an eye cream that does it all and a royal fragrance that uses technology that will blow your mind.Enjoy xx

*This episode is in partnership with Avon*In this episode I'm exploring the frustration that so many of of us with sensitive skin face when choosing our skincare. So often we long for the actives that will give us luminous, healthy skin but have to steer clear in case they worsen our sensitivity.Avon have come out with the most amazing new product that can not only help soothe sensitivity but can also give us many of the benefits of some of the most sought after actives (think retinoids) but without the pain. In short, here's a product that will work hard for us without any compromise.During the episode I speak to the brilliant Zoe Hyde who is Avon UK's skincare category manager. We have a great chat about sensitive skin and why it's so important that we should all have access to great ingredients. I also chat to Anthony Gonzalez. He's been innovating and developing products at Avon for over 20 years and we get into the nitty gritty of their Anew Sensitive Plus Dual Collagen Cream and what makes it such a game changer for sensitive skin.Later on I have a brilliant talk with Karen who is an Avon rep and Helen, her customer and friend. They both suffer with sensitivity and talk candidly about their skin and their own experience with the cream. And finally it's the turn of the Outspoken Beauty Panellists, 100 of whom have trialled Anew Sensitive Plus. We hear their no holds barred reviews.This is such a good episode with a brand that I respect for many reasons. (They support women, are innovative and often leaders in the skincare field and are accessible to us all). I loved talking through the science and innovation behind their skincare and also exploring the frustrations that so many of us with sensitive skin face.

In this week's Minipod I talk you through some of the excellent products that I've discovered this week.From a new Lisa Eldridge shade of eyeshadow that is an absolute game-changer to one of the best cream cleansers I've ever used that retails for around £6 to my hero skincare product of the moment to an affordable and irresistible fragrance, it's all here. (Oh and I also think I may have the answer to constipation ;0)Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode I speak to the brilliant Dr Anita Sturnham. Anita trained as a Dr specialising in plastic surgery and skin cancer and it was during her many years of analysing people's skin that she fell in love with dermatology which eventually led her to open her aesthetic and wellbeing clinic, The Nuriss Clinic and to create her own skincare range called Decree.During the episode Dr Anita gives so much incredible advice about how to look after our skin, the big dos and don'ts, the ingredients and products that really work and she also answers the skincare questions that you asked on Instagram.This episode is for all skincare nerds and lovers and is bound to provide you with a new and incredibly educated approach to your skin.You can find Anita on Instagram @drajsturnham

In this episode I get to know the brilliant actress, presenter, businesswoman and fellow podcaster Natalie Anderson.Natalie and I have the best chat about why we love podcasting, Natalie's career and the part that anxiety has played in her life and we also explore Natalie's love for beauty. Natalie has a real passion for Chanel and explains why and she also talks about her loyalty to brands and products that she has used since she was a teenager. We also chat about why good skincare is so important to her.You're going to love getting to know Natalie and her passion for beauty and wellbeing. You can find her podcast The Capsule In Conversation in all the usual places.

In this week's minipod I talk about my products of the week including some amazing products for sensitive skin, an incredible highlighter, one of my favourite eyeliners of all time and a ginger tea that is really helping me with certain issues.I also chat about day time naps, washing disasters and a recent Press Event that made me feel old.Enjoy xxProducts mentioned:@mvskintherapy Multibalm and Gentle Cream Cleanser@superfacialist Rose Hydrate Calming Creamy Cleanser@esse foundation F5@wild deodorant@biossance exfoliator@danielsandler waterproof eyeliner (green velvet), Invisible Blotting Powder, liquid blush@nudestix Ice Ice Baby

In this week's episode I discuss the ins and outs of my toilet issues which leads to an unexpected chat about adult nappies, Bryony reveals some of the secrets of her life as a TV makeup artist.There are also of course our usual beauty recommendations and talk of one of the strangest beauty products I've ever received.

In this episode I get to know beauty journalist extraordinaire and ex Cosmo girl Laura Capon.Laura tells us about her journey from working in insurance (a job that was totally wrong for her) to doing everything that she could to get a job at Cosmopolitan. This is definitely a story of luck, sheer determination and hard work paying off.After telling us about her journey to becoming a beauty journalist, Laura goes into why makeup is so important to her, why she feels let down by the fashion industry and we chat through the products that she loves.I absolutely loved getting to know Laura and know you will too xx

In this week's Minipod I'm fresh from a treatment with Queen of Skin and my lovely friend Pam Marshall. During my appointment Pam reminded me of some great tips and tricks to keep our skin behaving itself and I of course pass them on to you.Following the skin advice I reflect on some of my products of the week and also tell you about a very personal health issue that I got checked today.Enjoy xx

This week I'm returning to my first ever episode of My Beauty Habits. It's with the brilliant Alex Steinherr and is one of my most popular episodes.Alex and I talk through her daily habits from the way that she wakes up to her daily beauty rituals to the supplements that she swears by.Alex not only talks candidly about her beauty habits but is really open about lots of aspects of her life.Products that Alex Mentions:Tanluxe sleep oilTanluxe MousseKiehls Creme de CorpsJohnsons Baby OilL’Occitane Shea Butter Rich Body CreamWeleda Skin FoodSisley Body Repair CreamCurel foaming facial washDr Barbara Stern Face WashColossal Eau de LaitAdvanced Night RepairAdvanced Night Repair ConcentrateAdvanced Night Repair Eye CreamCreme de La MerOmorovizka Rescue CreamAllies of Skin Vitamin CHeliocare spfAlumier sunscreenAllies of Skin RetinolMedic8 R RetinoateBakuchoilwellbeing:Apple cider vinegar in waterHibiscus and rosehip teagut health: symprovebone broth- blonde chickenMarie Reynolds supplementsFragrance:Chanel CoromandelJo Malone X Zara Fleur D’OrangerTom Ford Plum JaponaisJil Sander SunCandles (Diptique)PamonderBenjoinPopopanax

In this episode I get to meet one of my favourite fashion designers, the exceptionally talented Jenny Packham.Jenny is not only one of Kate Middleton's favourite dress designers but has made dresses for the likes of Angelina Jolie, Kate Winslet, Helen Mirren and Adele.During our chat we delve into the good, bad and ugly world of fashion. Jenny has written a fantastic book/memoir called "How To Make A Dress" and one of my favourite bits (which we cover in the podcast) is when she retrospectively tells former editor in chief of Vogue Alex Shulman off for being incredibly rude after one of Jenny's fashion shows.Jenny and I also talk about what fashion and beauty mean to her and how even when you are one of the most successful fashion designers in the world it is still possible to have self doubt.I can't wait for you to get to know this brilliant woman and can't recommend her book enough.

In this week's Minipod I chat through some of the beauty tech that I really love and also question a couple of purchases that perhaps have been a little less useful.From a fabulous hairdryer to an at home laser hair removal devices to the ultimate hair waver, some of these products have truly revolutionised things for me. However, there is definitely some tech that you need to properly research and question before you commit to spending, as you'll hear.

In this episode, I tell a very surprised Bryony about the unexpected items you can buy from French vending machines.We go on to talk about digging holes to Australia (and showing off more than I bargained for) as well as what happened when Bryony and her family went boating together.Later on we focus in on our top 7 products of the fortnight including two sensational fragrances, a calming serum and the perfect affordable lip crayon,

In this, the last of my summer holiday Minipods I talk about my current beauty icons. In my opinion, if these products were restaurants they would have Michelin stars. They are products that stand out, are well made and are worth every penny.I hope you have enjoyed my holiday minipods. Things will get back to normal on Wednesday when Bryony is back for another fabulous episode.In the meantime, I'd love to hear about your favourite beauty products. DM me via Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.

I'm still in France and wanted to do a minipod covering everything that is in my holiday makeup bag. (Tbh it's not that different to usual).During the podcast I have a good old delve and talk you through my choices. There's lots to go through including three bases that all do very different jobs, the best lipstick ever and two mascaras that are perfection but at very different price points.By the way, podcast business will resume as usual when from next week when I'm back from France xx

I've recorded this podcast from sunny France where I've been spending time perusing the French Pharmacies and being tempted by all sorts of goodies.During the episode I tell you about the products that I swear by, have bought and explain why they're so good. I also tell you about a retinoid product that French women swear by and that is only available behind the counter.Here's what I mention:Klorane Dry ShampooHomeoplasmineNuxe Reve de Miel Lip BalmNuxe body oils/new floral perfume/Delicious Fragrant Water (Sun) and Prodigieux Shower OilBioderma shower oilBioderma Miscellar WaterLa Roche Posay Cicaplast BaumeA313 0.12% retinol estersCaudelie Beauty Elixir

In this episode Bryony and I talk about the places where you really shouldn't put ice, we discuss my Aunty's massage technique and what she does when things go too far and we chat through our very best products of the fortnight including the perfect powder substitute that makes your skin look utterly fabulous.

As it's holiday time I'm putting out another Minipod today. This time I chat you through some of my very best hair products from cheap, cheerful and brilliant shampoo to an awesome hairspray that will keep your style in place all day to the do it all product that could save you lots of money.Enjoy xx

In this week's Minipod I talk you through some of the beauty products that I'll be taking with me to France this year.From amazing spfs to a gorgeous gradual tan to products to keep the oil and blemishes at bay, it's all here.Hope this comes.in handy whatever your summer plans are.

I am so happy to have the amazing Pamela Marshall back on the podcast.During the episode we bust a few skincare myths, Pam gives her second to none skincare advice and we discuss the merits of keeping things simple.We also get all excited about her genius PHA Serum which she has recently launched and which has been the hugest labour of love.It's SO good to have Pam back on the pod and for those of you who have been missing our weekly lives, we're planning on bringing them back so watch this space xx

In this episode I welcome TV presenter and journalist Andrea McLean. Andrea opens up about why she decided to give up a successful TV career and start her own business which has seen her launch an app called This Girl Is On Fire.We chat about the app and why she wants to help women stop feeling stuck and start feeling excited about life again.Andrea and I also chat all things beauty and she gives a fabulous recommendation for a light and glowy serum/base that I bought instantly after recording the episode. I hope you enjoy getting to know Andrea and that her story inspires you if you're also looking to make a change in your life.

In this week's minipod I go through my list of perfect summer scents. These are the ones that smell of sunscreen, beaches and hot skin. Also, I've had a lot of questions about skincare routines recently so I go through my recommendations and the order of products that I think we should use.Here are the fragrances I mention:Nivea SunFugazzi In Love With The CocosTo The Fairest CecileEstee Lauder Bronze Goddess FraicheSana Jardin Berber BlondeCreed Virgin Island Water

Bryony Blake is back and this week she's talking about some of the weird and wonderful people that she has had in her makeup chair. I on the other hand talk about one of the strangest and most unexpected interviews that I ever did (it involved interviewing a woman who was playing her best friend's vulva at the theatre).We have some brilliant beauty recommendations for you including an utterly uplifting summer fragrance, fantastic makeup and the most exciting new skincare product in town (according to Nicola).Enjoy xx

We're taking a little break from beauty this week to talk all things relationships, sex and pleasure with one of the UK's top experts in the field, the brilliant Annabelle Knight.From dating tips after divorce to how to increase our confidence and ask for exactly what we want to how to express our sexual indentity, this is the episode for you whether you're looking for love/need to spice things up or just want to hear an honest and open conversation about owning our sexuality.This was such fun to record and I hope you love it as much as I do x

*Outspoken Mental Health is supported and sponsored by Dermalogica*In this the final episode of this mini-series of Outspoken Mental Health I'm joined by hair mogul Lee Stafford and Dermalogica's Education Manager Candice Gardner to talk about how the beauty service industry can help with our mental health.We talk about the scientifically proven power of touch, the positive role that hairdressers/beauticians and aestheticians can play in our lives and why sometimes we need to just have a moment with someone who is outside our family and friend circle.Recording this episode reminded me that treating ourselves to beauty treatments is about so much more than how we look. Taking time to ourselves with another human treating us like this can genuinely be beneficial to our mental health and so much more.Lee and Candice have so much experience when it comes to this topic and I can't wait for you to hear their views during the episode.

In this episode I get to know Amy Christiansen Si-Ahmed, the incredible founder of the first socially conscious luxury fragrance brand, Sana Jardin.Amy and I chat about how she made her dream a reality and how the stars aligned to enable her to create a brand that not only supports the women who harvest her ingredients, but has become one of the best and most respected fragrance brands on the market.Amy's story is enchanting, as is she and is once again an example of how it's possible to have a dream and make it a reality. I hope you leave this episode feeling that anything is possible. Oh and if you've never smelt Berber Blonde you need to...it's incredible!

In this episode I get to know Lily Earle, the daughter of Liz Earle MBE.Lily and I talk about how Liz built up her business and what it was like being a child amongst all the excitement and hard work as the Liz Earle brand was built up.Lily and I also talk about what it's like living with chronic migraine and how it has impacted her life and career. We talk about the things that help her and how it feels going from feeling in peak health to having an invisible disability.I love Lily's honesty and also her spirit that has seen her build a brand new business in the midst of her condition. She is a true inspiration.

In this week's minipod I go through some of the products that I am super impressed with at the moment.There's a beautifully glowy serum/foundation/illuminator hybrid, a very special fragrance from D.S. and Durga and a foot cream that does so much more than soften your feet. I also chat through my updated skincare routine. Enjoy xx

Bryony Blake is back for another episode and this week we're talking about the heatwave and why Bryony has decided to embrace it. I talk about an unexpected encounter with my friend's nipple and we also chat about our favourite beauty products of the fortnight, including the lipstick love child of a strawberry and a raspberry and a face product that is guaranteed to make you glow like you've never glowed before.

In this episode I chat to consultant dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings. Natalia, who is the author of "Skintelligent - What You Really Need To Know To Get Great Skin", has many opinions about what we should and shouldn't be using on our skin. She is also a believer that we don't need half of the products that we purchase and that we have been somewhat misled by the beauty industry.Natalia's views are quite extreme but are also well researched and fascinating and I think you'll find this a really interesting episode that might change the way that you treat your skin forever.

*Outspoken Mental Health is sponsored and supported by Dermalogica*In this, the penultimate episode of Outspoken Mental Health, I have the most incredible, open and honest conversation with Gok Wan, who opens up about his mental health, the struggles he's faced in his life and how he's worked towards facing and overcoming things.Gok has experienced so much and I was so grateful for how he opened up to me during this conversation. He is also doing work with Dermalogica around skin confidence and it was great to explore that side of things too.This is one of those episodes that I think will not only touch you but that could genuinely help you. Gok is so relatable and kind and I just know that you'll get a lot out of hearing his story.

This isn't my usual Wednesday podcast but I thought it would be nice to have a catch up with you as I feel like I haven't done it for ages.During the episode I talk about everything from Covid to Emma Thompson to the book that will change the way you think about your skincare routine. I also mention a couple of heatwave related products.I hope you enjoy this little catch up episode xx

In this brilliant episode I get to know the amazing entrepreneur and founder of Ammu Beuaty, Zareefa Arije.Zareefa and I chat about the journey that she has been on from losing her beloved mother to creating the most beautiful beauty brand in her memory.We chat about grief, family, the power of beauty through the generations, YouTube stardom and so much more.This episode is moving, searingly honest and fascinating in equal measures.

In this week's minipod I talk about an £18 serum that makes a huge difference to your skin, my favourite body scrub of the moment, a clothing brand to bring a smile to your face and one of my favourite makeup brands of the moment. Please excuse my croaky, covidy voice during the episode! Enjoy xx

In this episode Nicola and Bryony talk about Bryony's amazing trip to Greece that saw her discovering a brand where all the ingredients are picked by Monks. Nicola talks about a rather unfortunate incident that saw her pour sauce all over a very important woman's couture jacket and a terrible haircut experience. Oh and Bryony tells us all about an amazing DJ called Dave!We of course get to beauty and this week we have makeup, candles and skincare for you.Enjoy xx

In this episode I chat to trichologist and founder of The Healthy Hair Studio, Enitan Agidee.Enitan chats to me about her obsession with healthy hair and with educating people with textured hair about how they can grow it long and healthy without having to rely on extensions or wigs.Enitan and I talk about how there has been a lack of education and great products for afro hair and how with people like Enitan leading the conversation, things are changing.We also chat about life, juggling and how we like to start our days.This was a great episode with a woman who is helping change the hair industry for the better.You can find Enitan and her amazing products and guidance at https://www.healthyhairstudio.co.uk

*This series is sponsored and supported by Dermalogica*In this episode of Outspoken Mental Health I'm joined by the amazing GP Dr Aziza Sesay @talkswithdrsesay.Aziza is renowned for her openness and the medical knowledge that she shares on her social platforms and during the episode we have an amazing conversation about the various aspects of mental health and the best ways we can go about seeking help if and when we need it.Aziza agrees with me that we are in a mental health crisis following Covid and she gives solid and reassuring advice as to how we can best deal with it.Whether you are anxious, depressed, stressed or just don't feel quite right, there is so much to take from Dr Aziza's words and I have no doubt that this episode will help you.

In this episode we get to know Angela Caglia who is one of Hollywood's most renowned facialists and who can count Barbara Streisand amongst her clientele.During the episode we chat healthy skin, great ingredients, the power of LED, starting a skincare brand and Angela has fabulous stories from her illustrious career.Enjoy xx

In this episode I welcome best-selling author Adele Parks MBE. Adele is such a character and is a little ray of sunshine. We talk about her new book One Last Secret, her writing process, how yoga and the community it provides has become her absolute must-have, why beauty is so important to her and how she can tell a lot about a person by looking at their "bubbles".Adele is a wonderful person with so much to tell and I can't wait for you to hear this.

*Outspoken Mental Health is sponsored and supported by Dermalogica*In this the second episode of this brand new mini-series, I talk you through some of the tools/rituals/actions that have been helping me with my mental health. Some of them I have learnt from therapists, some are plain common sense and others are things that I have discovered along the way.There is no one size fits all when it comes to mental health but I truly believe that some of the things I talk you through during the episode have helped make a difference for me and that they might just do the same for you.Please keep this conversation going and know that I'm always there to talk about anything that comes up in this series. DM me anytime @Outspokenbeautynicola.Thanks again to Dermalogica for helping me to get this conversation out there.

The delightful Bryony Blake is back and we're talking about a special card game that can improve your relationship, Mums having fun, wizard's sleeves (don't ask!) and of course we have some thoroughly brilliant beauty recommendations for you. Enjoy xx

This episode is in partnership with @PenhaligonsIn this quintessentially British adventure the amazing Suzy Nightingale and I explore Penhaligon's royal connections, scandalous Portraits and Sports Car Club launch. Prepare for scented snippets throughout history, the Bridgerton like characters who make up the dazzling Portrait collection and rev your engine for the most sublime (limited edition) fragrance and its regal launch at Blenheim Palace.As we explore these fragrances with tantalising stories, we'll be accompanied by a thoroughly regal and atmospheric soundtrack. So prepare to dive into a collection of fragrances whose historic influences never detract from their thrilling modernity.Here's what we mention:Blenheim BouquetHammam BouquetBluebellElizabethan RoseThe FavouriteThe Coveted Duchess RoseThe Tragedy of Lord GeorgeRevenge of Lady BlancheMuch Ado About the DukeSports Car Club

*Outspoken Mental Health is sponsored and supported by Dermalogica*I'm so excited to finally be able to share Outspoken Mental Health with you. This five part mini series is here to open the conversation around mental health, give great tips and advice, educate and is a space for sharing real life experiences.Over the coming weeks we'll be hearing from an incredible GP, Gok Wan will tell his story, I'll be sharing tips and hints from my own experience and we'll look into how the beauty industry can support our mental health.I am so grateful to Dermalogica for helping to make this series a reality. It is so important to me that we normalise discussing mental health and I want this to be a safe space that helps you realise that whether you're suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic stress or the wealth of other conditions people experience everyday, you are not alone and there is help out there.In this episode editor of Get The Gloss, journalist and yoga teacher extraordinaire Victoria Woodhall talks to me about what's been happening with my own mental health, particularly over the past 6 months.I hope you get something out of this and would so value your feedback. Message me any time @Outspokenbeautynicola.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I speak to queen of denim Donna Ida.Donna fist came to my attention when I interviewed Trish McEvoy who not only waxed lyrical about her amazing denim jumpsuit but the woman herself. The more people i spoke to the more I heard her name and eventually the brilliant Jo Elvin connected us and the rest as they say is history.Donna tells the story of how she built her business and how anything is possible if you truly believe in your idea. We also chat about escaping to the countryside, the power of massage and then we delve into Donna's beauty habits.Donna is a inspiring, vivacious woman and i just know that she'll lift your spirits.

In this episode I have the pleasure of getting to know Michelle Freyre, the Global President of Clinique.Michelle tells me how her passion for beauty started and how this led to a career that has taken her from strength to strength. We chat about where beauty is now and where it's heading and how Michelle is changing things (for the better) from the ground up.This was a great opportunity to speak to a passionate and fascinating woman who is leading the way in the beauty industry and making some truly brilliant changes.

In this week's minipod I talk you through my favourite SPF brands. From the cool, cult ones to the high quality but brilliantly affordable one, this is a comprehensive guide to what I think are some of the very best sunscreens on the market.

It's time for another episode with the glorious Bryony Blake. This week we're talking about the importance of communication, "fanny chomping shorts" (don't ask) and how to overcome them, when sex education goes wrong, special moments with Magic Mike and Bryony takes us on a virtual trip to the theatre.We do of course chat through our usual 6 incredible beauty products of the fortnight and Bryony gives her honest thoughts about the new Charlotte Tilbury bronzer.Enjoy :0)

It's an absolute pleasure to welcome back beauty journalist extraordinaire (Harpers, Evening Standard) Lucia Ferrari.In this episode we're talking hormones and how messed up they can make us feel when they get unbalanced. Then Lucia chats through some of her recent fragrance discoveries (make sure you join her on Insta @Luciaferraribeauty for her fragrance series Let Us Spray) as well as listing some of the very best tinted moisturisers to come out this season.Here's some of what she mentions:Chanel Paris Eaux ParisGuerlain Musc OutreBlancD and G Light Blue Italian LoveBecca Dewing TintOskia Nutri BronzeYves Saint Laurent Nu Glow In BalmCode 8 Beauty BalmChanel Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint

in this week's Minipod I'm talking about a serum that is both affordable and beautifully hydrating. I also talk about the importance of taking charge of our health and asking for blood tests, why Omega 3's are brimming with benefits and I chat about a rose and patchouli perfume that is utterly addictive.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm speaking to Cosmo's Beauty Director, the lovely Victoria Jowett.We chat about how the magazine has changed since we were both young, why she adores working as part of a beauty team and of course chat about the many beauty products and rituals that she adores.

In this episode I welcome back the fabulous Trinny Woodall. In this episode we're talking about what we do when we feel a bit below par and how we try and bounce back. Trinny also chats about the importance of lifting other women and then we have a great old natter about skincare and her new collection of products.It's always such a pleasure to have Trinny on the podcast. Enjoy!

In this week's minipod I talk about a great meditation tip that I've picked up from my new yoga class. It's then time to delve into this week's products which include a fragrance that totally captures the spirit of Paris, a sexy citrus perfume, the ultimate body SPF and a small brand called Messiah and Eve that has taken my breath away.Finally, I chat about the fact that I'm going to be going on HRT and why.....Enjoy Outspoken Beauties :0)

Bryony Blake is back and in this episode we're talking about Bryony's unfortunate Spanx related incident in a train loo, Nicola's similar experience in a car and we have a good old giggle about Bryony's outfit choice for the Jasmine Awards which saw her standing out just a little bit too much.We do of course get to chatting about beauty and as ever have 6 fabulous recommendations for you.

In this episode I chat to Lorraine Dallmeier , Biologist, Chartered Environmentalist and the CEO of Formula Botanica, the award-winning online organic cosmetic science school. Lorraine turned the business around and it now attracts thousands of students from around the world.During the episode Lorraine and I talk about the history of formulation and how some of the biggest brands were started by people who were mixing up products in their own kitchens.Lorraine also explains how anyone can be a formulator and start a beauty brand as long as they have the passion and drive. She also tells me about some of the huge success stories to come out of Formula Botanica.If you're looking for a career change and beauty is beckoning then this episode may be just what you need to hear.

In this week's minipod I briefly chat about the annoyance of having to get one's body "summer ready".Next I chat through an amazing lipstick that I discovered in MAC, a stunning shower oil and my favourite new hat.Then it's time to welcome back Sam Freedman from Curate Beauty. She's here to tell us about her Indy brand of the week. Enjoy!Products mentioned:Karen Mabon Leopards Can't Change Their Spots SunhatMAC Powder Kiss Lipstick In Sheer OutrageBloom and Blossom Shower OilFewe Skincare

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I start with my first impressions of Sali Hughes' Revolution Skincare range. After that it's time to welcome my guest, American actress, musician and activist Torrey DeVitto.Torrey and I have a great chat about her career, her love of animals (and how that influences her beauty and fashion choices), the products that she swears by (including a very special Le Labo Fragrance) and her brilliant views on ageing.I had a great time getting to know Torrey and I can't wait for you to hear this episode.

*This episode is in support of the amazing Eve Appeal, a charity whose mission it is to raise money for research about, raise awareness of and support people with the five different types of gynaecological cancer.*In this episode I'm joined by comedian extraordinaire Karen Hobbs and the brilliant GP Dr Aziza Sesay who are both ambassadors for one of my favourite charities, The Eve Appeal. Karen was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2014 and has since gone on to help launch The Eve Appeal's nurse run helpline "Ask Eve" and incorporated her experience of cancer into her stand-up work.Dr Sesay is on a mission to help educate us about our health and in particular raises awareness of the 5 different types of gynaecological cancer.During the episode Karen shares her story, we chat about gynaecological cancer and how to recognise if something isn't right and we generally have a good chin wag about female health and how to seek help when we need it. It is our hope that this episode will entertain you, empower you and might even save someone's life.Thanks so much to The Eve Appeal for providing these two incredible guests and for all the brilliant work that you do.You can support The Eve Appeal by taking part in Get Lippy Month and buying products from the beauty brands who are supporting them by giving a percentage of takings straight to the charity. (You can find all the details and other ways to support them at https://eveappeal.org.uk. )If you have any concerns about your gynaecological health you can call Ask Eve on 08088020019 - the nurses are AMAZING.Oh and remember that the 5 different types of gynaecological cancer are womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval and vaginal.

In this week's Minipod I discuss my new, utterly delicious daily breakfast and how I make it.I also chat about the most uplifting room spray, a sensual candle, an affordable fragrance that perfectly captures the spirit of summer and I turn to my Indy brand expert Sam Freedman who this week recommends a stunning crystal skincare brand.Here's what I mention:Nutribullet 600 Series Starter KitAntonia Burrell And Breathe SprayFloral Street Midnight Tulip CandleEstee Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau FraicheSam's Indy brand of the week : Palm of Feronia

Bryony is back and she's going to a big awards ceremony. This leads to discussions about what she should and most definitely shouldn't wear. We also talk dog-sitting, my home medal ceremony, annoying itches, when lube goes wrong and of course we chat all things beauty with some excellent recommendations in store for you.

It is such a pleasure to finally get Victoria Woodhall on Outspoken Beauty. Victoria is a journalist and editor extraordinaire (she is the editor of Get The Gloss), an incredible yoga teacher (she teaches Trinny Woodall amongst many others) and one of the loveliest people in the industry.During the episode we talk about Victoria's career, the benefits of yoga and how it has changed her life and the beauty and wellbeing products that she swears by including a £4 Ayuverdic tongue scraper amongst lots of other things.This is a great episode with a woman who I both respect and adore. Enjoy :0)

In this week's Minipod I tell you all about my favourite mascara of the moment (it's got me very excited because the quality and price are so incredible), powerful personalised skincare, yummy perfume and I even delve into a couple of the books that I'm enjoying at the moment. Oh and I reveal all about my out of control moustache. Enjoy xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits (which you are going to LOVE), I'm joined by aesthetic doctor extraordinaire Sophie Shotter. Sophie has been my guest before but this time she's here to tell us all about her beauty habits.Sophie chats about her skincare routine (which is jam-packed with excellent products), the makeup she loves, why a good sleep routine is incredibly important to her and we also touch upon fragrance and the things that make her feel amazing.Here are some of the products that Sophie mentions during the episode:Why we sleep bookOlverum or Votary pillow mistSensateMuseOto and Apothem CBDNeostrata Restore cleanser, Skinceuticals simply clean cleanser, Delo Rx cleanserBioderma Sensibio Micellar WaterNS Tri Therapy Lifting SerumSBS AlphaRet & EyeMaxMeder Circa Night CreamSBS Alto Defense SerumRevision Vitamin C LotionSBS Interfuse Eye CreamHeliocare Water GelRevision Nectifirm AdvancedSBS TechNO Neck Perfecting CreamOxygenetix FoundationHourglass Voyeur Liquid LinerNatasha Denona Glam PaletteChantecaille Longest Lash MascaraChantecaille Lip Chic

In this episode I welcome the brilliant and multi-talented Dr and aesthetic practitioner Dr Shirin Lakhani. Dr Shirin, who can is the founder of Elite Aesthetics, has a special interest in urology and hormones, stemming from her days as a medical dr. She brings this to her aesthetic patients, meaning that when you see her she can guide you in many ways and give you a true 360.During the episode we chat about the effect that social media filters can have on us, why incontinence should never be a taboo and we should never be scared to come forward and seek the help we deserve. We also chat about the importance of being aware of hormonal changes and again knowing when to ask for help.I hope you enjoy this episode and feel empowered to demand the very best for you and your health.

In this week's minipod I chat about Cat Deeley's perfume oil E11even and give my honest opinion. I also tell you about an amazing new haircare brand, a cheap and cheerful body spray that you can layer with other scents, the ultimate body cream and the makeup remover of dreams.

Bryony's in Manchester and there are all sorts of strange things going on in her hotel....why won't they give her a fridge? How will she stop someone coming through the adjoining door? What can she do to feel cosy all those miles away from home?After a chat about hotel and makeup artist life, we of course give you our top beauty recommendations of the fortnight as well as going a little of piste with talk of the perfect T- Shirt and Bryony's medical related wonder product that we can all use. Enjoy xx

In this episode I chat to presenter and interiors specialist Alison Cork. Post-menopausal and in her late 50's, Alison decided to transform her body, losing 4 stone and getting to a place where she felt confident and raring to go.However, she found that once she had lost weight she was met with a surprising reaction from the public and encountered trolling and negativity.During the episode we explore why Alison decided to make the changes that she did and how it made her feel when other people judged her. We also look into how it feels to be post menopausal and why women "of a certain age" should never just slip into the shadows.Later on I have a brief chat with aesthetic doctor Sophie Shotter who talks about the part that she played in Alison's journey. This is a really interesting and honest episode with two brilliant women. Enjoy!

In this minipod I chat about a makeup brush that I couldn't be without, delve into the world of a rose fragrance that will make you the envy of all who sniff you, explore an SPF for sensitive skin that is prone to redness and re-visit one of my favourite exfoliators (but one that shouldn't be used too frequently). I also discuss an amazing eyeliner and my new lip addiction.Here are the products I mention:Trish McEvoy Intense Gel Eyeliner in Deep AubergineVotary Tinted Lip GlossMatiere Premiere Radical Rose Eau de ParfumIndeed Labs Vitamin C24Kate Somerville ExfolikateRosalique 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle FormulaIt Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection no 7

In this my final Easter holiday Minipod (business resumes as usual from Friday), I talk about some more standout products.From the brilliant small independent brand Hedgewild Beauty who specialise in beautiful, sustainable balms to Monika Blunder's exceptional new moisturiser that works perfectly under makeup to the most beautifully fragrant orange blossom soap to Andrew Fitzsimmon's conditioning spray which performs better than some counterparts that are 5 times the price.I hope you enjoy hearing about these great products from sensational brands.

In this short Easter special I go through the products that really have the power to transform me and make me feel like brand new which I think is what this time of year is all about.From my dream perfume to the very best body moisturiser to a face mask that seriously transforms your skin to the lip product that will enhance any lipstick, these products really do tick all the boxes for me.For more info on products I love do join me on Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola

In this week's Minipod I talk about a beautiful double shaded green eyeliner, the most perfect summer scent, the ultimate hair texturiser (that smells divine) and the best app that I have ever come across if you suffer with anxiety. If you fancy joining the private Outspoken Beauty Podcast Facebook Community search for The Outspoken Beauty Club.

In this episode Bryony and I discuss that moment when you discover your first grey pubic hair and what this means going forward. There's also chat of strange window displays in Paris, anti social dancing and of course lots of really amazing beauty recommendations including a mascara for huge lashes, the best fake tan for the face and a gorgeous soap. Enjoy!

I'm so happy to be able to say that I finally have the brilliant Dr Rangan Chatterjee on the podcast.Dr Rangan who is a GP, author, TV presenter and podcaster has helped millions of people to reevaluate their health and lifestyle and to feel and live better.During the episode we discuss many of the pillars in his new book "Happy Mind, Happy Life". We explore the science of happiness and the simple things we can do/choices we can make that are scientifically proven to bring more joy, calm and confidence to our lives.I loved chatting to Rangan and think that both this episode and his book could prove to be life-changing for many people.

In this week's Minipod I talk you through my products of the week and I've got some truly brilliant ones in store.There's the perfect rose lipstick, a cheap but incredible hand cream, a lip product for the plushest of lips and a cream that is guaranteed to help you with dry, unhappy hair. Oh and I also talk about one of my very favourite artists who happens to also design makeup bags, clothes and gorgeous silk eye masks.If you'd like to join the private Facebook Group check out The Outspoken Beauty Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/419953838690477

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I welcome back the brilliant aesthetic doctor Maryam Zamani.Maryam and I have a great chat about her favourite skincare and makeup products, the pleasure that she gets from candles, her very favourite fragrance and all the things that she does to make her feel good. We also discuss juggling busy lives and Dr Maryam gives her view on the ageing process.I loved hearing about Maryam's beauty and wellbeing habits. Enjoy!

In this episode I speak to the man who is perhaps best known for being hairstylist to the Kardashians, the thoroughly lovely Andrew Fitzsimons.Andrew and I chat about why he left school at the age of 13 and the amazing advice that his mum gave him that his stood him in good stead to this day.We also talk about the incredibly brave decisions that he has taken and how they've paid off, the power of living alone, why kindness is always the answer and why hair gives him such pleasure.Andrew's story is incredible and I found it so incredibly inspiring. Enjoy getting to know this fabulous man.

In this week's Minipod I talk you through some of the brilliant products that I've been testing recently. From the most amazing brow pencil to an artfully made mascara wand to a simple but brilliantly effective hand-cream, these products are all really well thought out and made. I also chat weighted blankets and arm-pit scrubs (who knew that these existed?)Enjoy x

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by model, entrepreneur and all round amazing woman Sophie Louise Hughes.Sophie's life changed when she donated part of her liver to her nephew and saved his life. Her entire outlook and career shifted and it led her to be an amazing advocate for body positivity as well as to launch her beauty brand Glowb.During the episode we talk about the challenges, the highs and the lows and how they have all made her the person she is today. Sophie talks honestly about her body, leaving a long term relationship and life in Australia behind her, starting a beauty brand and we of course focus in on her very favourite beauty products and wellbeing habits.I loved getting to know Sophie and found her attitude to life incredibly inspiring. Enjoy!

In this episode I welcome back the incredible Jo Elvin. Jo was the editor-in-chief of Glamour Magazine for 17 years and most recently the editor of YOU Magazine. She is truly one of the magazine industry greats.However, recently Jo made the decision to leave the security and prestige that comes with her role as editor, to go freelance and completely reinvent her career at the age of 52.During the episode we talk about making difficult changes, walking away from comfort and refusing to slip into the shadows as we get older. This is an episode about empowering ourselves to be the women we want to be rather than who we are expected to be. (Jo and I also have an honest conversation about the menopause and talk about the amazing power of having fabulous nails).I hope that my chat with Jo inspires you and makes you realise that sometimes feeling safe in your career isn't enough. We need to fight to feel truly fulfilled!

In this week's minipod I talk about a couple of new products on the block including a super hydrating serum and a shampoo that makes your hair glow. I also remind you of one of my favourite products of all time and why I think it's so brilliant and have a cheap and cheerful perfume that will make you instantly happy. Enjoy!

In this episode makeup artist extraordinaire and all round lovely lady Bryony Blake is back and we're chatting about botox, riding donkeys (and sisters...don't ask!), tights gone wrong and of course there's lots of beauty chat too.As ever we have three fabulous beauty products each to tell you about including a super glowy serum. Enjoy :0)

In this episode I welcome back one of the beauty industry's most informed and opinionated members - the brilliant brand founder and Vice President of The Society of Cosmetic Scientists, Sam Farmer.If I ever have a question relating to a certain brand or formulation, Sam is the man that I go to. I have honestly never known anyone with his knowledge and in this episode we put the beauty world to rights and delve into topics such as clean beauty, natural beauty, synthetics and how brands should be talking to and educating their customers.This is a really valuable episode for anyone who wants to cut through the BS and know what we should really be looking for when we purchase our products.

*The episode is in partnership with Sensate*One of the things that has really been helping me to relax recently is a genius bit of tech called a Sensate. I first came across it when it was recommended by my brilliant nutritionist Charlotte Faure Green (I'll be getting her on the podcast soon), who specialises in stress and anxiety relief and told me that with daily use, the Sensate should help to relieve my anxiety. I have found the Sensate to be so amazing that I needed to find out more and got in touch with the company who invented it. The rest as they say is history and they have joined forces with me on the podcast so that we can get a really good insight into how this bit of tech came about and what makes it so effective at reducing stress.During the episode I get to know Michelle Laven who has been with Sensate since the start and we have a great chat about the current stress explosion that so many of us are experiencing, I learn more about the vegas nerve and also about how the Sensate works its magic.If you'd like £20 off a Sensate then head to getsensate.com and use code OUTSPOKEN.

*This episode is in partnership with Aromatherapy Associates*In this episode Bryony Blake and I are joined by our gorgeous mums Francesca and Louise for a very special chat about how we reset ourselves. Aromatherapy Associates are doing a lot around resetting and how their amazing oils can help change your mood/state of mind for the better and the four of us take this theme and explore how we have reset ourselves at major times in our lives as well as the little things we do that help us.Later on we go through our very favourite Aromatherapy Associates products and how they help us to reset. All four of us have been fans of the brand for many years and we have some great tips for you.After our chat I catch up with Christina who is the head of education at Aromatherapy Associates. She tells me the fascinating history of the brand and what makes their oils so incredibly special. If you'd like 25% off Aromatherapy Associates site wide from 16th-27th March use code OUTSPOKEN25

In this episode I meet Nic and Eva Speakman aka The Speakmans. Nic and Eva have been therapists for over 20 years and have changed many lives.During the episode they generously share many of their tips and techniques for overcoming anxiety and we have a conversation that reveals a lot about my own past and current struggles with anxiety.Nic and Eva are incredible and I really hope that this episode helps you if you are facing any challenges at the moment.You can find them on Instagram @thespeakmans and I highly recommend their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DAjKLGdUJqDn5c-cJf1OQ.

In this week's Minipod I delve into my beauty bag of wonders and pick out 5 products that I've been trying, testing and loving.From an amazing pre-biotic shampoo to a fragrance that smells of holidays to the most beautiful silk fake lashes, these products are all really fantastic. I also tell you about a special hormone test that I'm planning on doing.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties!

In this episode I'm joined once again by the brilliant skin health specialist Jasmina Vico. Jasmina is the woman behind the skin of the likes of Jodie Comer, Sienna Miller and Phoebe Dynevor and is renowned for her "Jasmina Vico Glow".During the episode I catch up with Jasmina and we explore her beliefs that good skin goes so much deeper than what's on the surface. Jasmina talks through the techniques and innovations that she believes will not only help our skin but overall health too and she stresses how important it is for her to explore all aspects of a client's health rather than just focussing on the skin.I love Jasmina's passion and the way that she is always learning and seeking new information. I also adore how strong and opinionated she is. Here is a woman who isn't scared to stand apart from many others in the industry and who has the self confidence (mainly thanks to her extensive research and constant quest for knowledge) to do things HER way.

In this episode I welcome back the brilliant aesthetician and author Dija Ayodele.Since our last episode, Dija has written one of my favourite ever skincare books "Black Skin: The Definitive Skincare Guide". The book is brimming with information, advice and also explores the concept of Blackness and identity in the beauty industry. (I couldn't put it down).During the episode we chat about the book and also focus in on Dija's skin rules. She has so many great pieces of advice, whatever the colour of your skin.This is a great episode! Enjoy xx

In this episode of Tried and Thoroughly Tested, phenomenal beauty science journalist Becki Murray talks us through the two mild retinols that have performed the best during the most thorough of trials.Both of the retinols mentioned are mild enough to use on most sensitive skins, increase hydration and with long term use will have the beneficial effects that you would expect to see from stronger and more intense vitamin A derivatives.I love hearing Becki's thorough and informed product reviews and can't wait for you to find out more about two phenomenal products.Do follow Becki @beckimurray_ for lots of excellent information and great beauty content.

In this episode Bryony and I chat about everything from Bryony'd fear of mice and rats to camel hooves to my worst ever kiss (with the most beautiful ever man) to the time that Bryony's friend majorly let her down when she was being chatted up by a total adonis.We do of course get down to talking about beauty too and we have a great selection of recommendations in store for you this week.Enjoy xx

In this episode the amazing skincare expert Sarah Chapman returns to the podcast. (She was first my guest way back at the start).During the episode we talk about how skincare has changed since we last chatted, the trends that Sarah approves of, supplements, skin non-negotiables, LED Masks and even delve into Sarah's own routine. Sarah is such a brilliant guest and I always learn so much from her. It's an absolute pleasure to have her back on the podcast.---------------If you'd like to trial beauty products and become part of a great community of beauty lovers, why not join the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel. Email nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk for a form.

*This episode is in partnership with Aurelia Skincare*In this episode I take a deep dive into the gorgeous skincare brand Aurelia and find out what makes it stand out from many others on the market.I chat to Antonia Knox who has been with Aurelia pretty much since the start and she explains why the brand is so special, what inspired their founder to start it and how their specific use of probiotics can help our skin in a number of incredible ways.Following my chat with Antonia it's time to hear from some of the Outspoken Beauty Panellists who have been trying a variety of Aurelia products including their hero Probiotic Concentrate. They give their honest, non-biased reviews.Do check out the Aurelia website if you'd like to delve into the brand further. They offer a service that helps you find the right skincare for your specific concerns.If you'd like to join the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel and test products then email me nicola@outspokenbeauyty.co.uk.

In this episode I chat to the brilliant Vogue Williams (I've been wanting to get her on the podcast for so long).Vogue and I chat all things podcasts, pregnancy and the gross things that our kids bring home (namely nits and worms...yuck!). Then we get onto some of the beauty products that Vogue can't live without, her tanning range, what she does to chill out and why she has a real penchant for retro fragrances for men. Vogue was an absolute pleasure to interview and I hope you love this episode as much as I do.

In this episode I get to know the amazing Marina Mansour. Marina is head of beauty at Kyra, a company that specialises in understanding and working with Generation Z.During the episode we chat about how this generation is a force to be reckoned with and the way that members are harnessing the power of social media to make big changes in the world of beauty.This is a conversation about fighting the status quo, self expression and how when enough voices come together they can make changes in an industry that up until very recently has made all the rules.Marina and I also have a great chat about her own personal beauty preferences and habits.I hope you enjoy this episode and that it inspires you to make some of your own beauty rules.

In this week's Minipod I recommend a brilliant book by a very feisty woman indeed. I also tell you about a sublime perfume oil, I look at both sides of the Augustinus Bader debate (can it ever be worth THAT amount of money?) and I chat through a brand new face mask that will do wonders for skin that is sensitive/compromised or just needs a good old dose of hydration.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties!

Bryony is back and in this episode we're talking about see through leggings, naughty dogs, posing for the postman and why sometimes you just need to take a bit of time out.Later we talk about an affordable and brilliant cleansing balm, a candle like no other, a buildable foundation that will give you a guaranteed glow, an iconic blusher plus much more.Enjoy!

We're having a week off Tried and Tested (it will be back next Friday) so today it's another episode of the Minipod with little old me.This week I'm giving initial impressions of some new beauty launches including Trinny London skincare, an amazing Avon Mascara and a PHA Exfoliator that stands out in so many ways. I also chat about the most beautiful addition to your shower that will turn your daily routine into a sensory delight.Enjoy!

Bryony is having a much needed week off and will be back next week but do not fear, I have an amazing guest in store for you!My guest this week is the brilliant Shannon Peter. She's the Beauty Director at Stylist and when I first met her a few months ago I was struck by how natural, kind and intelligent she was.In this episode we hear her brilliant career story and then get into the nitty gritty of her beauty habits and the products that she swears by. Bearing in mind her Beauty Director status, these are (as I predicted) really fantastic recommendations and are totally from the heart.Enjoy this one Outspoken Beauties!You can find Shannon @Shannonrpeter and of course can read her brilliant work at Stylist Magazine.

I am SO excited to share this episode with you. Sali Hughes is back and this time she joins me and Suzy Nightingale for an episode of On The Scent.If you heard the first episode I did with Sali many moons ago, you'll know that fragrance is one of her biggest passions. In this episode Suzy and I delve deep into the fragrances Sali uses in her emotionally-supportive toolkit and we find out so much about her through this joyful (and often revealing) discussion.Here are the scents that she talks about:Fragrances that formed part of Sali’s childhood:@yardleylondonuk English Lavender@officialbiba perfume (1970s)@diorbeauty Miss Dior (the original)The scents Sali uses now as…Signature scents:@chanelofficial No5@yslbeauty Rive Gauche@fredericmalle L’Eau D’HiverConfidence-boosters:@chanelofficial Coco@ormondejayne Ormonde Woman@guerlain MitsoukoVa-va-voom sexy (for herself):@celine NightclubbingImmediately calming:@johnsonsbabyuk Baby Lotion@nivea_uk Creme@fredericmalle Cologne IndélébileWild card:@heeleyofficial L'Amandiere ExtraitsFind out more about @thebeautybanks & how you can help: https://www.beautybanks.org.ukRead Sali’s books:Pretty Honest https://tinyurl.com/PrettyHonestPretty Iconic https://tinyurl.com/PrettyIconic

In this week's minipod I talk about some of my favourite products at the moment from the most amazing serum that does it all to a perfume that is perfect for Spring to a review of Dr Sam Bunting's new eye serum.I hope you enjoy hearing about this week's picks.If you'd like to join the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk and I'll send over a form.Products Mentioned:Issey Miyake A Drop D'IsseyMedik8 R-Retinote Day and NightAromatherapy Associates Forest Therapy OilCinema Secrets Makeup Brush CleanerDr Sam Bunting Eye Serum

In this episode I'm joined once again by the fabulous Estee Lalonde.This time we're delving into her beauty rituals with a big focus on her love of baths and why they play such an important part in her life. Estee also updates me on the beauty products that she is loving at the moment and we have a really good chat about anxiety and depression, both of which Estee suffers with and is really open about (I love her for this).Finally we focus in on Estee the entrepreneur. She's built a gorgeous beauty brand called Mirror Water from scratch and it's great to hear how it all came about.This is a lovely episode and it was such a pleasure to have Estee back on the podcast.

*This episode is in partnership with GetHarley*In this episode I introduce you to an amazing platform that makes some of the best skin experts in the UK accessible to us for a really good price. GetHarley, which was founded by the brilliant Charmaine Chow enables us to book online appointments with experts who would usually charge hundreds, for as little as £40. Charmaine is not only trying to democratise access to leading skin experts, but she's doing it in a seamless and really effortless way as you'll hear in the episode.During the podcast I meet three of the women who are available to us on GetHarley including Dr Fiona Mccarthy who is not only a skin expert but an oncologist, Consultant Dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed (who is also known as the Psychoderm as she has a degree in psychology that she applies to her skincare) and finally the amazing Dr Lauren Hamilton who is a GP and founder of cosmetic and wellness clinic Victor and Garth. These women are all incredible and chat through some of their beliefs about skin, give great tips and share some of the skincare that they love.I also have a great chat with founder Charmaine who tells us what inspired her to launch the platform.Having experienced GetHarley myself I can tell you that I am SO impressed. It's a great service and I have a feeling that a lot of you will be helped by it. If you'd like to find out more you can check them out at getharley.com.

Science journalist and beauty tester Becki Murray joins me for another episode of "Tried and Thoroughly Tested."In this episode Becki has been putting hair oils through their paces and she's here to reveal which two stand out as being the very best options particularly for textured/curly hair.I love doing this episode with Becki and introducing you to the products that are proven to work in thorough, independent trials.

In this episode Bryony Blake is back and we're talking about her life as a makeup artist and her current work with the brilliant David Walliams on Britain's Got Talent. I also reminisce about a rather eventful interview I once did with Jason Donovan, David Walliams and Matt Lucas where I got into a bit of trouble. This leads us to chat about strange cab journeys, over-working and of course we tell you about some of our current beauty loves with a beautiful lipstick, fab face-mask, an update on home laser hair removal and the perfect cream for winter ravage skin. Enjoy!

In this episode I get to know the truly inspiring Faye Speedie. Faye was forced to take a step back from her high powered role in the beauty industry due to health issues and the fact that she was finding it hard to conceive. During the episode we chat about issues that apply to so many of us. From health to the pain of not being able to conceive, to having the strength to step away from your career to starting an incredible and successful company on your own...it's all here. Faye and I also have a great chat about the beauty industry and she also gives some of her own excellent recommendations.Faye's company Beauty Bulb helps beauty, personal care and wellbeing brands in a number of ways including with sales and business growth. You can find her and her brilliant team at beautybulb.co.uk.

In this week's minipod I talk a bit about the high levels of anxiety that I have been experiencing and what I'm doing to try and get them under control. (If you're also struggling I'm always here for a chat. Just DM me @outspokenbeautynicola).I also talk about another body cream that has had the Becki Murray stamp of approval (she'll be back for another episode next of Tried and Thoroughly Tested next week) and is a really good budget option. Finally I chat about a serum that has landed on my desk and that I'm finding very interesting, the best leggings I've ever bought (which just so happen to be on sale right now) and a beautiful new brand made for babies but that is also really great for us.Here's what I mention:Bam leggingsAveeno moisturiserEveredenAlgenist Blue Algae Vitamin CAnxiety Josh

In this week's episode of My Beauty Habits my guest is the amazing fragrance journalist and expert and my great friend and co-host of The On The Scent Podcast, Suzy Nightingale.Suzy and I have had so many incredible conversations about scent but I've never really asked her about the other aspects of beauty that she love. I'm so happy that I now have because I absolutely ADORE her beauty habits and rituals. During the episode Suzy chats about why she is drawn to glamorous makeup and looks from different eras, her humongous lipstick collection, how she tames her fly-aways and why her skincare routine is so important to her. There are obviously a couple of fragrances in there and we also chat through how Suzy looks after her wellbeing.I can't tell you how much I loved recording this episode. Suzy is a breath of fresh air and I adore her passion for beauty and how much it empowers her.Here's what she mentions:Skincare:Nighttime routine:ELEMIS Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil,ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm OR Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing BalmPaula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid ExfoliantMedik8 Intelligent Retinol 6TRMedik8 Intelligent Retinol for EyesHada Labo Super Hydrator (hyaluronic acid)Curél Deep Noisture SprayELEMIS Pro Collagen Marine Cream (light in Summer) OR Modern Botany Recovery Cream for more intense comfort boost. OR La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5. OR De Mamiel Skin Recovery Balm (smells amazing, works overnight even on scars).Day:Cleansing balm (as above)Ren Ready Steady Glow AHA TonicMedik8 C-TetraLa Roche-Posay SerozincMedik8 C-Tetra EyeClinique Moisture Surge EyeErborian CC Dull Correct SPF 25Body:Dry body brushingAromatherapy Associates Deep RelaxHair:Hershesons Almost Everything CreamSam McKnight Lazy Girl Dry Shampoo / Easy Up-Do / Modern HairsprayMakeup:Lipsticks -Lisa Eldridge (nearly everything) faves: Velvet Ribbon & Velvet Myth (wild mulberry)Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment Light my FireLisa Eldridge Velvet Fawn & Gloss Embrace in Velvet MuseEyeliners:Black felt liners - Haus Labs (lady gaga) &Maybelline Hyper Precise All Day Eye LinerMascara:Marc Jacobs At Lash’dPerfume:Skin Alchemists Equilibrium pulse point remedyOrmonde Jayne Woman

In this episode I have the pleasure of speaking to psychologist Dr Julie Smith.Julie has made it her mission to spread her knowledge of mental health to the masses and her incredibly popular TikTok account (which now has over 3 million followers) has become a hub for useful nuggets of wisdom that are helping so many people.During the episode we talk about Dr Julie's views on mental health and focus in on her new book "Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?" Throughout her book Julie provides brilliant support and tips to help us overcome a number of issues including grief, fear, relationships, depression and so much more. During the episode we chat through some of the challenges that so many of us experience and Julie gives sensible and achievable advice whilst talking honestly about some of her own personal issues.Dr Julie is doing great things in the mental health sphere and I hope that you enjoy getting to know her. Her book is available on Amazon and is a brilliant and relatable read.

In this week's minipod I'm joined by the brilliant beauty science journalist Becki Murray. As part of her job, Becki works in a lab and tests beauty products to the nth degree to ensure that they are doing what they claim that they do.I feel incredibly honoured that Becki has joined me to share some of her findings and to tell us about some of the products that have out-performed themselves...the products that we can REALLY trust to do what they say they do and that we can spend our hard earned cash on with confidence.In this episode Becki tells us about two of the highest performing body moisturisers that she has been testing, These brilliant products are guaranteed to leave your skin healthy and hydrated and will continue to perform long after application.I hope you enjoy learning about Becki's findings and that they help you with your purchase decisions.Products mentioned:Malin and Goetz Vitamin B5 Body LotionNeom Perfect Night's Sleep Magnesium Body Butter

The delectable Bryony Blake is back from Thailand and joins me for another of our episodes. This week we're talking Covid testing Thailand style, overcoming Bryony's fear of heights, why Bryony is cooler than me and why she'll will soon be touching David Walliam's face.We also have our usual six beauty recommendations with this week's picks covering everything from a beauty balm with guaranteed glow, an addictive body moisturiser and an almond shower oil that cocoons your skin in the most delightful way.

In this episode I get to know playwright and artist Matilda Velevitch. Matilda works with the charity Care4Calais and helps many refugees and in this episode we talk about what she has learnt and about the reality of their situation.We focus in on what it means to be a female refugee, lose your dignity and experience challenges that many of us couldn't even dream of. Matilda also reveals some truly shocking details about some of the things that are happening to refugees under our very noses in this country. Amongst the extreme challenges that these people are facing is also a story of humanity and laughter and a coming together of women plus how you might be able to help.I realise that this isn't a beauty related episode but after getting to know Matilda and hearing the story of some of the refugees that she's worked with, it's one that I had to publish. I always say that beauty starts important conversations and this really is a conversation that needs having.If you'd like to help Care4Calais here's the link to their website: https://care4calais.org/

In this week's Minipod I chat through some of the things that I've been loving this week, from an excellent multi-functioning retinoid/vitamin C to the vase of dreams to a truly brilliant frizz tamer, these are the products that I really rate.I also make an exciting announcement about a brand new series that's coming to the podcast which will see me being joined by science journalist extraordinaire, Becki Murray and recommending products that have been trialled and tested to the nth degree.If you'd like to join the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel, DM me on Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola and make sure that you join our private Facebook community The Outspoken Beauty Club.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I chat to the wonderful fragrance writer and presenter Alice Du Parcq.Alice has been a beauty journalist and editor since 2001 and has the most amazing talent for bringing fragrances to life. She also hosts the brilliant series "Desert Island Spritz" on her Instagram @aliceduparcq where she interviews the likes of Caroline Hirons, Sallie Hughes and Lisa Potter Dixon about their favourite scents. (I highly recommend it)In this episode we chat about Alice's fascinating career and then go on to explore the beauty products that she adores. Alice has got a truly luxurious and very sensorial skincare routine that will have your mouth watering. She also chats through beloved makeup items and of course a few of the important fragrances in her life.Alice is a joyful human being and this episode is utterly fabulous, just like her!

Happy New Year Outspoken Beauties!In this mini episode I chat through my New Year's Resolutions and why I've chosen them.From shunning fad diets to working on my mental health and relationships to a few promises regarding the podcast, I really hope you enjoy my first episode of 2022.

In this the final episode of my Best of 2021 mini-series I talk about the home fragrance products and brands that have really stood out to me this year and tell you why.Here's what I mention:The Perfumer's Story Black Moss CandleThe Constant Candle CoNeom HappinessAromatherapy Associates Oil DiffuserDiptique Baie CandleHolistic London Candles and Home SpraysAntonia Burrell "And Breathe" Air Cleansing Room SprayEmma Hardie Moringa Balm CandleFloral Street Midnight Tulip CandleSkandinavisk Festive Candles

It's the penultimate episode of my top products of 2021 series and today I'm focussing on fragrance.This has been a tough to whittle down as I've adored and discovered so many beautiful scents this year, but these have really stood out to me:Frederic Malle Portrait of A LadyLe Labo The Matcha 26Penhaligons ConstancePenhaligons Duchess RoseSerge Lutens Fleur D'OrangerNivea Sun

In this end of 2021 mini-series, I'm chatting about my favourite products of the year.In this episode I cover quite a few categories including hands, bath, body, hair and wellbeing.Here's what I talk about:Nursem hand-creamAromatherapy Shower OilsL'Occitane Bain de LaitL'Occitane Almond Shower OilDr Sam Bunting Flawless Body TherapyBabyliss Deep WavesFable and Mane ShampooRen Atlantic Kelp and Microalgae Anti-Fatigue Bath Oil

In the 2nd instalment of my products of the year I talk about the skincare products and brands that have really stood out to me in 2021.Skincare is obviously very personal but I feel that a lot of these products would work well for most skin types, ages and shades.Here's what I mention:Exuviance Vitamin C Capsules, Bionic Tonic and Night Renewal HydragelHeliocare SPFEmma Hardie Moringa BalmCerave Hydrating CleanserSkin and Me prescription skincareMedik8 Crystal RetinalSkingredients (numerous products mentioned)Dermalogica MicrofoliantAvon Anew Renewal Power Serum

In this, the first of my top beauty product round ups of 2021, I'm focusing in on makeup and talking about the products that have really stood out to me this year including old classics and new favourites. Hope you enjoy the round up and do let me know what you've loved in 2021 by getting in touch via Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.

Bryony is back and joins me as I hide from the kids in the spare room. (Listen and you'll find out why).During the episode we talk Covid (Chris currently has it), gingerbread house competitions (Bryony's family gets seriously competitive at this time of year), entertainers and loads more. We then give you some fabulous beauty recommendations including the ultimate glittery eyeshadow.Enjoy :0)

In this episode gynaecologist and co-founder of Deodoc Dr Hedieh Asadi is back on the podcast (do have a listen to our last episode with her sister Hasti - it was brilliant!) and she's here to answer more of our intimate health questions. If there's something about your vulva or intimate health that you want to know then hopefully you'll get some answers here!This is your podcast and if there's anything or anyone that you'd like to hear, DM me on Instagram @OutspokenBeautyNicola.

In this Minipod I tell you about the current set up at home (Chris is in the loft conversion with Covid and the kids and I are going stir crazy).I also chat through some of the things I'm doing to try and stay as healthy as possible in my bid to steer clear of it (whether I do is yet to be seen).If you are also experiencing Covid at the moment I hope you're OK xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I chat to the amazing integrative health, nutrition coach and skincare founder Karen Cummings-Palmer.Karen and I chat about her incredibly sensible and balanced approach to health and wellbeing and she gives lots of really accessible and achievable advice. We also chat through her views on how we can achieve healthy, glowing skin at any age and why wrinkles really don't matter if you and your skin are vibrant.Karen is also the founder of a beautiful skincare brand called 79 Lux and we chat about her reasons for launching it and what makes it so special.Finally we focus in on some of Karen's own beauty habits.Enjoy getting to know Karen. If you're anything like me, she'll inspire you to make a few small changes in your life that i know will make a big difference.

It's the final day of the Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar. Thanks so much to every brand who has been involved and raised money for the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 12??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

It's the episode you've all been asking for! Cher is back for a festive episode and we have A LOT to catch up on.From Spotify playlists to crazy wedding plans to mermaids to strange nicknames, expect lots of laughter and a conversation that goes in all sorts of directions.There are also beauty recommendations galore. Cher has so many amazing things to tell us about and I literally want to buy them all.Enjoy this episode...it's so nice to hear Cher's lovely voice again and this will definitely get you in the festive mood.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 11??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 10??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 9??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 8??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

Bryony Blake is back and in this episode we talk about my Mum's wedding, a ridiculously long walk, why mouth guards + snoring + sleep farting do not a very sexy combo make and we also chat about why dick pics are never OK.We then get onto beauty and go through our fab list of products that we're loving. From amazing candles to a fabulous setting spray to an glittertastic festive eyeshadow there are lots of excellent recommendations in store. Enjoy!

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 7??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 6??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 5??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

This episode is fascinating and important in equal measures. I'm joined by Gerry Anyanwu and Charlotte Williams who are fighting for true diversity in the beauty industry and beyond and are here to tell us what's going wrong and how we can make our businesses and brands truly diverse.Gerry is the founder of the Uncommon Collective, an organisation that helps young people and "supports different faces to thrive in different places via grass roots and engagement and direct representation". Through her work she is empowering kids from all backgrounds to know their worth and their potential...she gives them the power to believe in themselves. Charlotte is an entrepreneur, influencer and founder of influencer agency Seven Six where she represents a diverse roster of talent. Her aim is to get brands working with all people of all colours, abilities and body shapes. Together Charlotte and Gerry talk about how it feels to be the only black person in the room, how brands need to stop paying lip service to diversity and work from the ground up and how in order to truly understand each other we need to diversify our teams. There's so much more to the conversation..it's funny shocking and in places challenging. I hope you get as much out of this episode as I did from talking to these two amazing women.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 4??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 3??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is finally here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 2??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

The Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar is finally here. Every brand involved is donating money to the brilliant charity Beauty Backed. Who's behind door number 1??----------------------------------------------------------------------------To win a festive prize from every brand taking part in the advent calendar leave a comment on today's Instagram Post @outspokenbeautynicola.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know model, writer and founder of Squish Beauty, Charli Howard.Charli starts by telling me about her modelling career and how after being told to lose weight by numerous agencies and brands she eventually decided to take a stand and speak openly on her Facebook Page about what was happening...... enough was enough!From that moment things started to change and today Charli is an ambassador for body diversity as well as being a model on her own terms and a really successful business woman.As well as chatting about Charli's fascinating career we also delve into the beauty and wellbeing products that she loves the most with a long list of incredible recommendations including the product that has helped her lashes to reach her eyebrows!!You can find Charli on Instagram @charlihoward.

It's finally time to tell you about the Outspoken Beauty Podcast Charity Advent Calendar. For the first 12 days of Christmas there will be a very special audio advent calendar here on the podcast. Each day we'll open the door to reveal a brilliant gift idea from one of my favourite beauty brands and every brand taking part is donating money to the amazing charity Beauty Backed.In this little introduction I tell you all about how the advent calendar will work and also have a chat with Queen of beauty Caroline Hirons who came up with the idea of Beauty Backed and is going to tell us all about it,Make sure you check out my Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola from 1st-12th December. Leave a comment under any of the advent calendar posts and you'll be in with a chance to win a box containing a gorgeous gift from each of the brands taking part in the advent calendar.

*This episode is in collaboration with Merz Aesthetics*In this episode the incredible Consultant Dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite introduces us to the world of tweakments. As one of the best in the business she has some amazing opinions on best practise, what to look for in the person that is treating you and also the things that really work. (As well as treatments we also focus in on skincare and the bits that she swears by).We chat about two of the treatments that Merz offer. One is a non-invasive deep ultrasound called Ultherapy and the other a next generation hyaluronic injectable called Belotero Revive. Alexis gives us an honest insight into what the treatments can (and can't) achieve and why she offers them in her clinic. This was a fascinating and really enlightening conversation for me. I am not someone who knows a lot about this world but I enjoyed having a really honest chat about how those of us who are interested in tweakments can do so in a safe way that will give the results that we are after.

In this week's minipod I do a round up of some bits and bobs that I think you'll really love. From the ultimate eyeshadow palette to a damn good lip balm to an utter treat from Aromatherapy Associates to the perfect SPF for this time of year, it's all in there. Enjoy :0)

In this episode Bryony is a total hero and does the podcast even though she has Covid.We talk about keeping sane in isolation with a chat about the TV programmes and books we've been loving. I also say why I'm not a fan of Amazon wish lists and why Bryony is obsessed with perfect bows on gift-wrapping. We also chat about pets and establish that we have very different opinions about the joy of guinea pigs and rabbits.Following that we get into beauty with some amazing Christmas gift ideas for you. Enjoy :0)

I can't tell you how excited I am about this episode. Hannah Martin has been on my list of coveted guests for so long and she did not disappoint. This is the story of ambition, hard graft and what it feels like to be one of the most successful makeup artists in the world.Hannah who has made up some of the most famous faces around, including doing Kate Middleton's wedding makeup, is one of the most lovely, fun and down to earth women who has also worked her socks off to get where she is today.We talk about her career journey from a love of the stage to where she is today. We also chat about the thrill (and intensity) of working backstage at Fashion Week, the multi-faceted and often supportive role of a makeup artist and we have a great time chatting about the products that Hannah loves. We also talk about Hannah's success on social media and how it compares to life as a makeup artist. Enjoy getting to know Hannah. She's an utter ray of sunshine and a true inspiration.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about Jane Wurwand's incredible book Skin In The Game, a brilliant alternative to Francis Kurkdijan's cult fragrance Baccarat Rouge 540, the candle for Moringa Balm lovers, good breathing and my favourite multivitamin.Enjoy :0)

In this episode I welcome back the brilliant Hannah Moore to the podcast. Hannah is an entrepreneur extraordinaire and the founder of LA Pacific toothpaste. We had such a great time last time that I couldn't wait to get her back on for a second round.During the episode Hannah and I talk about what beauty means to her, the products she can't live without and the things that she does to feel good on every level.We also talk about Hannah's views on energy and working at a cellular level. Prepare to be enlightened!

In this episode I chat to Beauty PR, writer and pro-age model Nicola de Burlet.Nicola started going grey aged 23 and went on (like so many of us do) to hide it for years until one day she decided to just go for it. She cut her hair short and embraced her natural grey hair in a big way. Since then she has gone from strength to strength, becoming a successful model and inspiration for many women.Nicola and I chat about the politics of grey hair, pro-ageing, Chanel, uncomfortable moments in lifts , grey haired role models and much more.I really hope that Nicola inspires you if you've been considering embracing your greys and that you enjoy hearing her brilliant story.

In this week's Minipod I remind myself and you, my lovely listeners, of some of the best budget skincare buys that do the job brilliantly and won't break the bank. Remember that if there's a minipod that you'd like to hear then you can DM me anytime via Instagram @OutspokenBeautyNicola or email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk. These are also the best places to enquire about joining the Outspoken Beauty Trialling `Panel.Brands mentioned:CeraveGarden of WisdomAveenoNeutrogenaThe Inkey ListIndeed Labs

Bryony Blake is back for her fortnightly episode and this week we're talking adult breastfeeding, when (green) makeup doesn't budge, must see movies and of course we have more brilliant beauty recommendations for you. We so love doing this episode and hope that we give you a good old giggle xx

In this episode I chat to aesthetician extraordinaire Dr Sophie Shotter.Sophie, who is a trained NHS Dr and anaesthetist is the founder of award-winning skin clinics Illuminate.During the episode we talk about Sophie's approach to skin, the tweakments that she loves most, the skincare that she swears by and why the way she treats skin goes a lot further than skin deep. (Sophie has a special interest in bio-identical hormones and treating her clients holistically.)It's clear to see why Sophie is so loved by the beauty industry and I know you'll get a lot out of listening to her.Here are some of the products that Sophie mentions:Delo Rx cleanser Neostrata Tri Therapy lifting serum Revision Nectifirm Advanced SkinBetter Science AlphaRet overnight cream and Interfuse Eye Cream Meder Beauty Myofix

In this minipod I talk about five things that I've been loving this week including random dancing, Lisa Eldridge's pop-up, the most phenomenal candles, a Chanel lippie and an orgasmic fragrance. Enjoy :0)

In this episode I get to know the fabulous Dr Sandra Lee aka Dr Pimple Popper. I know this is usually My Beauty Habits but we ended up talking about such a variety of things that I decided to go with a different title.Sandra and I have such a great chat covering everything from her ethos for happiness to how she puts patients at ease to what she finds interesting about dermatology. We also chat about beauty ideals, self-image, her skincare range and she answers some of your excellent questions.It was a real pleasure to get to know Dr Pimple Popper and I was struck by her warmth and how much she genuinely cares for the people that she treats. I have a feeling you're going to enjoy this one xx

In this episode I speak to actress, content creator and entrepreneur Tanya Burr.Tanya and I have a brilliant chat and cover all sorts of topics including how our monthly cycles influence our lives, mental health, intuition, self awareness, making things happen and of course beauty.Tanya has created a wonderful makeup brand called Authored and we chat about the impact she hopes to make through her brand's messaging, packaging and the products themselves.I've been wanting to interview Tanya for years and it was well worth the wait.

Bryony Blake is back. There are so many highlights I don't even know where to start. They include Bryony recording the episode in a dodgy car-park, a new ad that she's starring in that led to general hilarity about an unexpected feature on a website, a spiritual hand massage and a perfume with a surprising name. Plus the usual beauty bits and bobs.

In this episode I chat to the brilliant James Wilson aka The Sleep Geek. James is a Sleep Behaviour and Environment Expert. As someone who himself suffered from insomnia, James is on a mission to demystify sleep issues and get to the bottom of why we struggle to sleep and what can REALLY help us.James is not one for airy fairy advice and magical remedies, but works with cold, hard facts about why sleep can be hard and the importance of understanding what kind of sleepers we are to work out what we need as individuals.James is so refreshing. I love his down to earth advice and the pressure he takes off those of us who worry about lack of sleep.During the episode he mentions:Unikbed Mattresses and their Aero pillowAlpaca fleece duvets from PenroseAllBamboo bedding (great for eczema and allergies)Lavitex pillows.

*This episode is in collaboration with Floral Street*In this episode I chat to the brilliant Michelle Feeney. Michelle, who is the woman behind one of my favourite fragrance brands, Floral Street, tells us how scent-scaping our homes can have an amazing effect on our moods, how people feel when they visit us, how it can be used to punctuate different times in the day and even affect our relationships.I have been trying it myself and have thoroughly enjoyed the effect of using different scents in different parts of my home and at different times of day (as you'll hear during the episode).Floral Street have the most INCREDIBLE range of home fragrances. My absolute favourites are Grapefruit Bloom and Midnight Tulip which is my evening scent. I hope that Michelle inspires you as much as she has me and that you have fun going on your own scent-scaping journey.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know iconic fashion designer and wellbeing guru Norma Kamali.Norma started designing in the 60's and is the woman behind hot-pants and the sleeping bag coat. Her designs have always stayed not only current but forward thinking and she has dressed everyone from Whitney Houston to Lady Gaga to Beyonce.Norma is also the author of empowering wellbeing book I Am Invincible.During the episode we talk about Norma's fascinating career plus her brilliant beauty and wellbeing habits and tips.Enjoy!

In this episode I chat to singer, dancer, TV star and entrepreneur Alesha Dixon.Alesha and I chat about mum life, beauty in all its guises and why it is about so much more than just what we put on our faces. We lead on to talk about ageing, spirituality, balance and why she was inspired to launch her supplement range Nobleblu.This is a fantastic episode and I can't wait for you to get to know the real Alesha.

Ahead of World Menopause Day next week I wanted to put out a slightly different Minipod this week where I refer back to some of the amazing things that I've learnt from Dr Louise Newson who really is the Queen of Menopause education. I also chat a bit about targeted menopause skincare and my thoughts on it.If you need help with your own perimenopause or menopause then I recommend:The Balance AppPreparing For The Perimenopause and Menopause by Dr Louise NewsonMymenopausedoctor.co.ukMegsmenopause.com (Check out the 34 symptoms of the menopause - https://megsmenopause.com/34-symptoms/)

*The first part of this episode is in collaboration with Parfumado*This episode starts with me and fragrance journalist extraordinaire Suzy Nightingale reviewing the brilliant fragrance service Parfumado (@uk.parfumado.com). Parfumado have a library of over 450 scents and you can pick a new one to try each month for £12.95. From niche to luxury to classic to fragrances that even Suzy hasn't heard of, they really do have a great collection. If you fancy subscribing, head to uk.parfumado.com and receive a 50% discount on your first month with discount code OUTSPOKEN50.Next it's time for the delectable Bryony Blake to join me for our fortnightly dose of gossip, giggles and a big celebration of the beauty products that we're rating. Bryony gives some great makeup tips too.Enjoy :0)

*Part of this episode is in collaboration with Dcypher Cosmetics*In this episode I start by getting to know Claire and Adam, the incredible entrepreneurs and founders of Dcypher Cosmetics. They have launched the most amazing service that enables you to order a foundation that exactly matches your skin's tones and undertones. Some of the Outspoken Beauty Panellists have been trying the foundation and putting it to the test. They give their honest reviews of the process and we find out if they recommend it.(If you would like 15% off a Dcypher foundation then head to https://dcypher.me and use code OUTSPOKEN15.)Next it's time to hear from inventor and entrepreneur extraordinaire Sophie Trelles-Tvede. Sophie came up with the idea for Invisibobble when she was at university and has turned it into a hugely successful hair brand. This is a story of ambition, making things happen and believing in yourself. I hope that Sophie, Claire and Adam leave you feeling that anything is possible!

In this week's Minipod I chat through my top eyeliners. I've sported a feline flick since the age of 18 and feel naked without it and I've tested a lot of eyeliners from the ridiculously expensive ones that have let me down to the budget buys that have surprised me. In this episode I list the ones that I think really stand out. Let me know your favourites by DMing me @OutspokenBeautyNicola :0)

*The first part of this episode is in partnership with SKIN App*I start this episode with a chat with the fabulous Flinty Bane, co-founder of a brand new and brilliant app called SKIN. As you'll hear, the app not only connects beauty lovers and allows us to share our passion but it also helps us find the very best prices for the products that we love. It's a total gamechanger and I can't recommend it highly enough.Next it's time for My Beauty Habits with sports presenter extraordinaire Seema Jaswal. We chat about her career, her love of makeup and of course the beauty products that she swears by.Enjoy :0)

In this episode I get to know the utterly fabulous author, TV presenter and Grazia Contributing Editor Candice Brathwaite. After reading her book "I'm Not Your Baby Mother" I knew I needed to get Candice on the podcast and I was so excited when she said yes.Candice and I talk about her books and the powerful effect that they have had on people, privilege, motherhood and her bold sense of fashion. We also have a great chat about the beauty products that Candice swears by. (She has great taste!)This really is the most brilliant episode and I truly can't wait for you to hear it.

In this week's Minipod I focus in on 6 things that I've loved this week. From an incredible Xmas decoration to my dream PJ's to a new found love for my Exuviance Vitamin C Capsules, this episode is eclectic and covers lots of bases.Here's what I mention:Liberty Christmas DecorationsHush PjsChanel Le LionExuviance Vitamin C Serum CapsulesWetlandsEnjoy :0)

I start this episode with a paid for review of the brilliant skincare brand Peace Out. As you'll hear, I'm not only impressed with their products but I love their ethos and attitude to skin.After the review it's time for a bit of Bryony Blake shaped fun. After a chat that covers hotel stays and posh influencer events plus life working at Strictly, we go beauty mad and recommend the very best products that we've been trying recently. You're going to love it :)

In this episode the fabulous Suzy Nightingale joins me for a truly fragrant episode of On The Scent where we partner with Penhaligon's and set sail on a scented adventure.Together, we’ll be taking you to exotic locations, exploring the history of the precious perfume ingredients and contemporary ways they’re still used. The fragrances we’re focussing on are all about travelling via your nose – traversing the world in search of fragrant inspiration and travelling through time itself. The best thing is, there’s no queues or passports, Covid-tests or quarantine to worry about. And you’re all invited, so let’s jump aboard…Fragrances mentioned:Starting our journey at London’s docks - EMPRESSA.Turkey - HALFETI / HALFETI LEATHER / HALFETI CEDARAncient Mesopotamia - BABYLONEgypt - CAIROIstanbul - CONSTANTINOPLEDisembarking back in London - You can remember your adventures with a beautiful silk scarf by incredible designer to the stars, Fee Greening - there are two beautiful designs to choose from and you will get one free with a purchase of £90 and over, using the code TRADEROUTESTREAT at checkout. For more info and to see the scarves just follow this link: https://www.penhaligons.com/uk/en/trade-routes-scarves

In this week's Minipod I talk about some of the things that I've loved and used for ages and that I'm enjoying at the moment. From nose hair trimmers to an excellent book to the easiest hair styling tool ever, this is a random edit of things that enhance my everyday life.Here's what I talk about:Babyliss Deep WaveTweezerman TweezersRemington Nose Hair TrimmerSara Pascoe Sex, Power MoneyPrudence (iloh.co.uk)

In this episode I get to know a hugely knowledgable and influential woman who has been in the beauty industry for more than 30 years. Newby Hands has an incredibly impressive CV including being Style and Beauty Editor at the Daily Mail, Beauty Director at large at Harper's Bazaar, editorial director at Feelunique.com and her current role, Beauty Director at Net-A-Porter.As I interviewed Newby I got really excited. I just found her insights, views and recommendations so spot on and I was blown away by her knowledge of beauty but also of what we, real women want and need. This episode is for anyone who is obsessed with the beauty industry and where it's heading and is also brimming with great advice and product recommendations from a woman who really knows her stuff.

*This episode is in partnership with Lashify*I have been brimming with excitement about this episode. It was a first for me in that I recorded it in my car when I was on holiday in France and I could not believe that the tech actually worked!During the podcast I get to know Sahara Lotti who is an actress, film script writer and the founder of Lashify which is in my opinion one of the most innovative lash companies on the market. (More on that in a moment). Sahara chats about her life as an entrepreneur, striving for perfection, why she chose not to have children and also gives a lot of life wisdom that I have really taken away with me.I then go on to chat to Dita Von Teese who has gone from huge fan of Lashify to being an ambassador because she loves them so much. We talk lashes, what beauty means to her, why her image is important and she also shares some brilliant beauty tips.These two women are so feisty and strong and yet not afraid to show their vulnerabilities. I hope that you get as much out of this episode as I have.As for Lashify, as you'll hear, Sahara wanted to give women who are tired of lash extensions another lash health friendly and more affordable option. These lashes are beautiful, the application method is totally original and best of all, if applied correctly, they really do last. (It takes a few goes to master the application but they give you a free education session and there are loads of lessons online. Once you master it, you won't look back). I'll give more info on the podcast and if you do decide you'd like to purchase them then I have a code for Outspoken Beauty Panellists. DM me if you'd like to join the club xx

In this week's Minipod I focus in on personalised, tailor made beauty which is becoming increasingly popular and in the case of skincare, I think much needed. From makeup to fragrance to skincare, if you're looking for something one off and targeted to your needs, then look no further.Here's what I talk about:Dcypher FoundationsThe Experimental Perfume ClubCodex LipstickSkin and Me

Yay Bryony and I are back and we recorded this episode after meeting for the first time which makes it extra special.During the episode we talk first kisses, the joy of meeting IRL, The Crown and then we go beauty bonkers with a whole host of products to tantalise your taste buds.Enjoy!

In this episode I get to know the Dr who is renowned within the beauty industry for giving the most subtle and natural looking tweakments. Dr Vicky Dondos is not only a fully qualified medical Dr but has been in aesthetics for more than a decadeDuring the episode we chat about Vicky's book The Positive Ageing Plan, in which she writes about how we can age positively and healthily whilst still wanting to look our best.Vicky also talks through her favourite ways to get great skin including topical treatments, supplements, tweakments and general health and lifestyle.Vicky is so knowledgeable and if ageing positively but glowingly is your thing then this is the episode for you.

In this special episode in partnership with Natucain, I learn about the science behind a hair spray that has been proven to both enhance hair growth and reduce hair loss. Natucain was formulated by the brilliant scientist Stefanie Seyda who wanted to make something that could truly help with hairloss but that was natural and without side effects.After learning about the story of the spray and how it came about, we speak to some of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who have been using it for 8 weeks. They give their honest review and tell us about the changes that they have seen in their hair.If you would like to try Natucain then they are offering Outspoken Beauty Listeners 50% off your first purchase using code NICOLA50 here's the link (https://natucain.co.uk/discount/NICOLA50) or you can head to natucain.co.uk. There is a 90 day money back guarantee as well.I hope you enjoy getting to learn about this innovative product and hearing how it has benefitted some of the panellists.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know tanning queen, artist and entrepreneur Amanda Harrington.Amanda shares the fascinating story about how her background as an artist inspired her to start a tanning brand like no other.We then talk about Amanda's beauty habits which include magical concoctions that she drinks and pretty hard core French Pharmacy products.Amanda was so much fun and I adored hearing about her daily beauty rituals. You're going to love this episode!

*This Episode Is In Partnership With Avon*In this episode I get to know Avon like I never have before. For most of my life I have thought of them as a company that give women amazing opportunities and are renowned for their makeup, but little did I know that they have been at the forefront of some of the biggest skincare innovations in the beauty industry.During the episode I get to know Autumn Duckworth, Avon's Head of Category, who gives an amazing insight into all the work that they have done to support and empower women as well as chatting about some of the mind-blowing work that they have done in the skincare arena.I then interview Anthony Gonzalez who is their Head of Skincare Product Development. He tells me about the incredible focus on science that they have and then goes into depth about their brand new (and truly excellent) product Anew Renewal Power Serum which contains patented ingredient Protinol. After a brilliantly nerdy chat about the science behind the product, we hear from some of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who give their honest reviews of the product. (We sent it out to 100 panellists and 95% absolutely love it).I have so enjoyed delving into the world of Avon. It has been a real education for me and my perception has definitely shifted to seeing them as a serious and truly innovative skincare brand.

In this special episode in partnership with Dr Sam Bunting we discuss acne and the best ways to deal with it. Sam as ever shares brilliant, no nonsense advice (and has me giggling because I made her record the podcast under a blanket....listen to find out why ;0)Later in the episode we talk about Sam's brand new skincare hero which is called Flawless Neutralising Gel. It's a product that directly targets acne and blemishes and Sam chats about the work that has gone into it and why it's one of her favourite products in her range.Finally, we hear from two Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists, both of whom suffer from acne and have been trialling not only the new Neutralising Gel but the entire Dr Sam Skincare System for 6 weeks. We hear their honest reviews and find out how their acne is doing. If you'd like to join the panel email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk and I'll send a form over.Sam's Neutralising Gel is available for £28 at drsambunting.com.

Things are still a bit topsy turvy after my holiday so normal podcasts resume next week. In the meantime, here's another minipod as requested by you - some of the books that I'm reading at the moment and loving.Here's what I chat about during the episode:Under Belly - Anna WhitehouseThe Panic Years - Nell FrizzellI Am Not Your Baby Mother - Candice BrathwaiteDare - Barry McDonaghLongevity Book - Cameron Diaz

In this episode I have the privilege of interviewing former nurse and now makeup artist and founder of the Attracta Beauty Awards, Attracta Courtney.Attracta has been in the beauty industry for a long time and has been having the anti anti-ageing conversation for years. She believes that the reason that she is so passionate about this is that when she was a nurse people would give anything to be well enough to grow old and it just didn't sit right that the beauty industry was undermining ageing with their messaging.Attracta and I chat about the changes that are happening and the things that need improving. She also talks about her brilliant career, the beauty awards that she has created and some of the beauty products that she loves.Attracta is a brilliant guest and is one of the women who are changing the beauty industry for the better. You can find her on insta @attractabeauty and check out the results of her latest awards @theattractabeautyawards.

I'm going slightly off piste with this one and doing a one off fashion based Minipod, but this is again due to popular demand! (You can always suggest minipod ideas by DMing me @outspokenbeautynicola.)I don't claim to be a fashionista by any stretch of the imagination and tend to gravitate towards clothes that are comfy, flattering, in bright colours and fab prints.( Although I also swear by all black for effortless chic). I love nothing better than a fab fitting jumpsuit, jeans that make my bum look great and don't cut into my tummy and vivid maxi-dresses. Anyway, here are a few brands that I think make brilliant clothes, cater to all shapes and sizes and make clothes that definitely aim to boost confidence and empower us.

In this episode I get to meet the man who is making a stand and encouraging men to fight the status quo and wear makeup if that's what they want to do.Danny Gray has opened the world's first men's makeup store on London's Carnaby Street and his message is clear...makeup has the power to empower men and give them confidence much like it does women. All we need to do is change our way of thinking.During the episode Danny opens up about how being bullied for his appearance as a child affected him and inspired his brand. We chat about his experience of Dragon's Den, his career journey and why Warpaint is about so much more about makeup.Danny is an absolute force of nature and I love what he's doing with Warpaint and his message. I have a feeling that this episode is going to really inspire you.

In this special summer holiday minipod I talk about some of the other bits and pieces that I love to take along with me to France, including fragrance, a delectable body cream and some fabulous makeup bits. The podcast will get back to usual from the beginning of September but in the meantime hope you enjoy this little sunny edit.

In this special episode in partnership with Indeed Labs I welcome their amazing CEO Dimitra Davidson back on the podcast. Dimitra and I talk about the power of having a great in-house team of scientists and how innovation and great formulating are key to the brand.We also chat about why Dimitra places so much importance on healthy skin barrier and why up until now she has never produced an acid exfoliant. This leads nicely to learning about their brand new (and amazing) PHA Toner. It is called Gluconolactone 10% and after Dimitra and I talk about it we hear from the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panellists who have been trying it for 6 weeks and give their honest, no holds barred reviews.I am a huge fan of Dimitra and her passion for skin and her brand and also love the fact that Indeed produce such good quality formulations that are priced so fairly. I can't wait for you to hear her story and to find out about their new product.

In this week's minipod I talk about the skincare that I'll be taking away with me to France. As you'll hear, I tend to leave the actives at home and focus on products that will keep my skin strong, happy and healthy whilst protecting it from the sun and keeping blemishes at bay.Here are some of the products I mention:Dr Sam Bunting: Cleanser/ Cerave: Hydrating CleanserMicrofibre cloths (Skingredients)Skinceuticals Silymarin CFWhind Jelly CleanserSkingredients PreProbiotic CleanserExuviance Protect and CorrectExuviance Night Renewal HydragelClinisootheHeliocare Peace Out Acne DotsDermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum

In this episode I get to know Val Monroe. Val was the Beauty Director at O, The Oprah Magazine for 14 years and has since started a newsletter called How Not To F*CK Up Your Face where she encourages women to learn how to be kind to and love their faces.Val and I were really aligned on many of our views, particularly around pro-ageing. I also loved Val's insight into how she and Oprah wanted to do a different, more positive sort of beauty coverage in the magazine.Valerie and I also have a good old chat about the products she adores. Enjoy xx

In this episode I'm joined by clinical nutritionist Emma Ellice Flint. I first came across Emma when she was talking about gut health at an event and I knew at that moment that I needed to get her on the podcast. She was so knowledgable, passionate and spoke so much sense and having listened to her for 20 minutes I felt inspired to research her further and make some instant changes to my own diet.During the episode we chat about why more and more research is showing just how vital the health of our gut is to the wellbeing of the rest of our body. Emma gives amazing tips and insights into how we can simply improve the way our gut functions and also gives some other really useful nutritional advice. There is also some great supplement guidance in there.Emma's speciality is Peri/Menopause nutrition and her book The Happy Hormone Cookbook is I think a must read for any woman over 40. You can also connect with her on Insta @Emmas_nutrition and if you'd like to see her in person, she works alongside Dr Louise Newson at the Newson Health, Menopause and Wellbeing Centre.I hope that you get a lot out of this episode whatever stage of life you're in.

In this week's Minipod I chat about 4 of my favourite online destinations for really excellent, personalised skincare and guidance. From Skin and Me where you have your own treatment made in-house, to Get Harley where you have the opportunity to have a consultation with a top skin consultant for a fraction of the IRL price, to Lionne and The Skin Nerd Network where the most amazing holistic approach is taken, there's something for everyone and every budget and best of all...you'll be getting advice and recommendations that are tailor made to you and your skin.I hope you enjoy learning more about these amazing offerings and as ever any questions, DM me @outspokenbeautynicola.

In this episode of Old, Borrowed and New Bryony and I talk about motorway driving, doorstep ice cream vans, the wonder of Grease 2 and of course go through our beauty picks of the week. Bryony has an AMAZING candle recommendation plus a shower gel that she can't get enough of and we also talk about the pros and cons of one of the most expensive face creams ever. I also talk about a perfume that starts off sweet and innocent but then becomes naughty and illicit.

In this special episode in partnership with Eucerin, I'm talking to Sophie Habboo about her experience of pigmentation, how it has affected her both physically and mentally and the things that have helped her to deal with it plus those which she has found less useful.Sophie has been working with Eucerin to promote their extensive Anti-Pigment range which has been game-changing for her and we discuss the products that she loves and how she incorporates them into her routine.Later in the episode I interview Eucerin's in-house expert Dylan Griffiths who tells me a bit about the science behind the range and why it works so well.I loved chatting to Sophie about her experience and am also so impressed with Eucerin and the huge amount of work that has gone into a range that is super affordable and accessible. I truly believe that good skincare should be available to all and that's exactly what Eucerin are doing.

In this week's minipod I talk about 5 things that I've loved this week, including a brilliant book, something that has totally turned my weak nails around, a fresh and lovely fragrance and my perfect glowy base. Enjoy :0)

In this episode I get to know Ronke Adeyemi, the brilliant founder of and brains behind Brown Beauty Talk ( a beauty website that connects black and Asian women with brands that cater to them. )Brown Beauty Talk had been on my radar for a while as the content they produce is really brilliant and it was such a pleasure to get to know the woman behind it.During the episode we chat about Ronke's inspiration for the website, we get all nostalgic about The Body Shop and we of course chat through the beauty bits and pieces that Ronke loves and recommends. (Much to my delight she's really into fragrance too!)Ronke is great and I can't wait for you to get to know her. I also thoroughly recommend brownbeautytalk.com for really great beauty content.

In this episode I speak to psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher aka @anxietyjosh. As well as being a therapist who specialises in anxiety and panic, Josh has written three best-selling books on the topic, with his most recent being the hugely popular Untangle Your Anxiety.As a long term anxiety sufferer myself, I was really keen to explore Joshua's views on the topic and hopefully get some great tips on how to manage something that I have put up with for a very long time.What makes Josh so interesting to me is his authenticity. He himself suffered from crippling anxiety and after a lot of hard work managed to overcome it which led him to author his books and to qualify as a psychotherapist.During our conversation we talk about various aspects of life with anxiety and Josh gives really down to earth, BS free and at times strict advice on how to overcome them.I hope that you get as much out of this episode as I did. The topic of mental health is so important to me, as is being open about my own. I'm on a mission to overcome my anxiety and as part of my podcast would like to take you on the journey with me from time to time. If you want to ask any questions or connect with me about anxiety and mental health then please do DM me via Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola. You can find Josh @anxietyjosh.

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about a few of my favourite things this week. I chat about a new liquid bronzer that blends beautifully, a great guide to breathing, power showers, a fabulous makeup brand that have you covered when you exercise and a box created just for female pleasure. I also tell you about an offer from the brilliant skincare brand Pestle and Mortar just for Outspoken Beauties.Products mentioned:Skin In Motion Mascara and tinted moisturiserWim Hof 11 minute Guided Breathing for Beginners (YouTube)Glossier Solar PaintShe Spot Intimate Pleasure BoxPestle and Mortar: Use code outspoken at checkout for a free 30ml Balance Spray and Pure Hylauronic Serum Ampoule with every order over £40.

In this episode Bryony and I talk foot warts, the "foolproof" way to find lost items, Naked Attraction, our favourite body parts and designer vaginas. We then go onto the main event and talk beauty. Our recommendations include Bryony's favourite ever blusher, an amazing spf/primer hybrid and an eyebrow product that never fails us. We loved recording this episode and hope you have fun listening xx

In this episode I'm entering a new and forward thinking world of female pleasure where everything for women is designed by women....I'm meeting Jemma Sawyer, the amazing entrepreneur and founder of the truly empowering female health and pleasure platform Iloh. Jemma who has spent years exploring FemTech and the innovation in the female pleasure space, decided to provide a platform that is without shame or guilt and describes ILOH as a community for women to explore their sexual health, confidence and pleasure.Jemma and I chat about her journey and inspiration and why she thinks that it is so important for women to lead the way in this arena. I also talk about some of the products featured on Iloh and why they're so fabulous. This is the episode for you if you're looking to explore opportunities for your own pleasure or just want inspiration from a woman who had a great business idea and made it happen. Enjoy :0)

I did a poll on Instagram and for this week's Minipod you voted for moisturisers. Even though they're not sexy, a great moisturiser can make all the difference to our skin by protecting the barrier, supporting skin health and in some cases treating certain issues. During the episode I cover off skin loving moisturisers, a fab treatment one for acne, the perfect moisturiser for mature skin and an exciting new moisturiser/spf hybrid. I also have a great recommendation for one that sits well under makeup.Products mentioned:La Roche Posay Tolerian Sensitive FluidDr Sam Bunting Flawless MoisturiserMurad Intense recovery creamVotary Super Seed Nutrient CreamExuviance Night Renewal HydragelExuviance Total Correct HydrateMedik 8 Advanced Day Ultimate ProtectEmbryolisse Lait-Creme ConcentrePlus I totally forgot to include Skingredients Skin Good Fats which I adore!

In this episode I welcome back the brilliant Dr Sam Bunting for a chat that I found incredibly enlightening. Sam and I focus in on the wellbeing habits that keep her feeling great and she shares how they have helped with both her physical and mental health, including a form of meditation that is having a profound effect on her.I love Sam's openness in this episode and the detail that she goes into and think that some of her habits and experiences might really inspire you (as they have me!).

In this special episode in partnership with Pestle and Mortar Cosmetics I have the pleasure of getting to know entrepreneur and co-founder Sonia Deasy. Sonia, who is a mother of five and total perfectionist (in the best sense of the word) talks me through her journey to launching (alongside her other half) a skincare brand that is loved by so many people and that for me ticks so many boxes. We talk about juggling work and family, creating skincare that really works and what her inspiration is. I love getting to know women like Sonia who prove that it is possible to make big things happen if you have the drive and passion.Later we hear from four Outspoken Beauty Panel members who have been thoroughly trialling the Pestle and Mortar Vitamin C 2 Phase Serum. As ever they give their honest, no holds barred views of the product and brand.I hope you enjoy discovering the woman behind Pestle and Mortar and if you don't know the brand then I hope this sparks your interest as it really is fabulous.

I have to preface this by saying that when it comes to wellbeing I am a work in progress. (ie I really don't have much of an idea at all). However, I am making a concerted effort to learn about how I can make myself healthier both mentally and physically and slowly slowly I'm hoping to incorporate more and more good habits into my life.In this episode I cover off 5 of these habits. They are all small steps that anyone can take.Products mentioned:Therapie Energy DropsThe Cultured Collective Fennel, Apple and Dill SaurkrautForage Botanicals Premenstrual Peace Drops

Makeup artist and all round fabulous person Bryony Blake returns for our fortnightly catch up (yay) and this week we have a good old chat about everything from sex faces to a horrendous stage name incident to why we like it when people are nice to us (and get really sad when they're not). We do of course get on to beauty and in this episode we're talking dreamy baths, teeth, prescription skincare and a multi-purpose balm.

I'm so excited about this episode. A few weeks ago I did a pod-swap with the brilliant Caroline Moss who is an author extraordinaire and host of the brilliant Gee Thanks Just Bought It Podcast where guests come on and talk about one thing that they've bought that has made a huge difference to their life. (I went on and discussed my ceramic dildo :0)Now it's time for you to hear my interview with Caroline. She is one of the funniest women I've ever had the pleasure to talk to and I spent most of our two virtual hours together snorting with laughter.Prepare for talk of "glitter tits", questionable makeup habits from our youth, views on life and for some great tips from Caroline as she discusses the beauty products that she absolutely adores.I thoroughly recommend Caroline's podcast....here's the link:https://www.geethanksjustboughtit.com/Enjoy this brilliant and hilarious woman!

In this week's Minipod I'm being a bit more eclectic than usual with a mixture of 5 things that have enhanced the past week or so for me.I mention a great book, a must have supplement, a fab tip from a nutritionist, the ultimate summer fragrance and also focus in on a skincare trial that I'm doing. Enjoy :0)

She's back (said in a very excited voice). Beauty journalist extraordinaire Lucia Ferrari always goes down an absolute treat when she comes on the podcast...she just gives the BEST recommendations and is without a doubt one of the nicest and funniest people in the industry.In this episode we talk about retinoids, skin barrier repairing products, menopausal skin and somehow get onto nipple hair. It's a great episode with a great woman. Enjoy!PS If you having a one to one consultation with Lucia then make sure you check out her new beauty consultation service here: http://www.lucia-ferrari.com/consultation-services

In this episode I start with a little chat in partnership with @braun_global. As you may know, I have been testing their Silk-Expert Pro 5 home IPL device and have seen some really amazing results with permanent hair removal that I've been able to do at home, which has been so handy! I've decided to partner with them to get you as much information about the device as possible so that if you do decide to buy one, you are equipped with all the knowledge you need. For that info, I chat to GP Dr Anita Sturnham who specialises in skin health and tells us everything we need to know about why IPL and why the Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 is so effective (and safe). Later in the episode I have a fabulous chat with Nutritional Therapist Gabriela Peacock who has written the most amazing book called 2 Weeks To Feeling Great. Gabriela talks me through how little changes to our diet and lifestyle can make all the difference to our general health and wellbeing. This is no nonsense, intelligent and empowering advice that I truly believe can help us. (No fad diets welcome!!)

In this week's Minipod I focus in on five products that I love and that I feel make a real difference to the health and appearance of my hair.I have very straight hair that can get a bit greasy and also lacks volume. I hope that most of these products will work for all hair types.Here are the products I mention:The Aquis hair wrapBabyliss Deep Wave StylerHair Hero Turbo DryAveda Wooden Paddle BrushElnett Styling Spray Heat Protection Spray

In this episode of Old, Borrowed and New, Bryony and I cover everything from periods to active wear and camel toes (don'task!), before getting into beauty bits and bobs that we're loving. This episode includes amazing cream blushers, a hard to find but incredible fragrance and some probiotics that are guarenteed to get your tummy back on track. Enjoy :0)

In this episode I chat to the incredible founder of Willowberry Skincare, Jenni Retourne.Jenni, whose brand is loved by many makeup artists is on a mission to change the conversation around ageing in the beauty industry and recently launched her Age Without Apology Pledge where consumers and the members of the industry can come together, make a pledge and help change the anti-ageing narrative. (I'm really proud to be a part of the Founder Member Collective).During the episode we chat about why we are so passionate about changing the way that products are marketed to with the use of fear and how we want to see the beauty industry help us embrace who we are rather than make us doubt ourselves. Jenni has lots of advice for brands and consumers alike and is utterly inspiring.I love what Jenni is doing. It's something that I'm so passionate about and it's a total honour to have her as my guest on this really important episode.

In this week's Minipod I talk through my five all time favourite home scents. They all serve different purposes and create very different moods and atmospheres in my house.During the episode I discuss how I use each scent and the products I mention are:Neom Happiness CandleAzzi Glasser The Perfumer's Story Black Moss CandleReplica Lazy Sunday Morning CandleAntonia Burrell "And Breathe" Air Cleansing Room SprayAromatherapy Associates Revive Oil and their new Atomiser.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by drag artist extraordinaire Cheryl Hole. Cheryl was one of the first contestants on RuPaul's Drag Race UK and during the episode we talk about what drag means to her and how it's developed as an art form in recent years.Cheryl has the most vivacious, warm personality and as I get to know her more, we delve into her beauty habits. Over the years she has mastered the art of makeup and she has a lot of AMAZING recommendations. We also chat skincare, our love for Fenty Beauty and Cheryl shares some beauty secrets that are serious game changers.I loved getting to know Cheryl and this episode is guaranteed to boost your mood and makeup skills.

I don't know how to sum this episode up apart from to say that Cherry and I had so much fun recording it and we covered all sorts of topics from vulvas to manifestation to past relationships. It really was just the most brilliant catch up and I feel like we put the world to rights and I left feeling all empowered and excited.Cherry is an ambassador for the brilliant charity The Eve Appeal and I just wanted to say that the work they do is incredible. They raise awareness of and research the 5 types of gynaecological cancer. They also offer 24/7 support with specialist nurses on their phoneline. If you do nothing else, please go to their website and read their guide to the Cancers....I have learnt so much from them and have had medical checks that I never would have known that I needed if it wasn't for the education that they offer.https://eveappeal.org.uk/gynaecological-cancers/

In this week's Minipod I focus in on four products that give you an instant tan and beautiful glow. Most of them also have skincare benefits and can be used in a number of ways.Products mentioned: Tanluxe Super Gloss SPF30, Indeed labs Bronzing Drops, Pai The Impossible Glow and Chantecaille Radiance Gel Bronzer.