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My Christmas Day Survival Guide
In this little episode I chat about my top rules for Christmas Day including how to avoid getting a terrible haircut from your mother-in-law, why you should never tell your sister off for buying you the wrong knickers and how to keep that festive feeling going way beyond the big day. I hope this mini guide makes you giggle. Thanks for all your support this year. You're the most phenomenal community and I've got lots of great stuff in store for you in 2025. Merry Christmas Outspoken Beauties xx
Top Gorgeous Smelling Products of 2024
In this week's edition of the best of 2024 I'm talking about all the lovely smelling products that I've rated this year. From fragrance to candles to bath and body and even a cleanser, these are the products that have stood out to me and my nose the most! Expect a mixture of old favourites and some newness that has really taken my breath away!
OSB x Lyma: Lucy Goff - The Skin Changing Home Device that Fits In Our Handbags!
This Episode is in Parternship With Lyma In this episode I get to know Lucy Goff, the founder of cutting edge beauty/wellbeing brand Lyma. Lyma was born when Lucy was incredibly ill with sepsis following the birth of her daughter. She was struggling to function properly when she came across Professor Paul Clayton, a world-renowned expert on preventative degenerative disease and evidence-based nutrition. He prescribed a series of supplements that had "peer-reviewed, patented ingredients, dosed at active levels, had a rigorous sourcing procedure, and were formulated so that the body could actually absorb them." Lucy saw her health improve and the rest is history. Lucy and Paul worked together to come up with Lyma supplements that did all of the above. They were the first luxury supplement brand with a huge amount of data and proof to back them up. Fastforward to now and Lyma have broken boundaries again with a laser device that is as powerful as the ones you find in clinic but that is safe to use at home and even fits in your handbag! During the episode we chat about the making of Lyma, the supplement world being a bit like the Wild West in terms of knowing what actually works and we also talk about the incredible science behind the supplements and the Lyma Laser. (The laser can do truly incredible things for the skin). This is a fascinating brand that is breaking boundaries and going to the nth degree to back up everything that it does with good, solid proof.
Your Beauty Questions Answered!
So many questions this week and such a variety. I'll be talking about excessively sweaty feet and hands, my thoughts about Sisley and whether it's worth the money, under eye concealers that don't crease, which 5 perfumes I'd GET RID of from my collection, what I've asked for this Christmas and lots more. If you have any questions for next week's episode DM me @outspokenbeautynicola.
Scented Sunday - Perfume Shopping in London: Hidden Gems and Must-Visit Stores
If you're looking for a fragrance, are after something a little bit different and want to make a day of it then you need to listen to this episode. This is my guide to some of the very best perfume shops in London...the ones that will elevate the simple act of shopping to something truly experiental and unforgettable. I've got a store in Covent Garden where the knowledgable and passionate staff will help you explore the exciting world of niche fragrances, a perfume lounge which is so cosy you'll never want to leave, eccentric boutiques hidden down historic little parades in Piccadilly and a luxurious little store in Mayfair that is overflowing with rare and mind-blowing scents. I hope that this will inspire some of you to go on what Suzy Nightingale and I love doing most...a Scent Safari! Do it with your best friend, have some bubbly and have fun! Oh and don't forget to bring a notebook and pen so you remember your favourites!!
My Top Makeup Products of 2024
Buckle up for a journey through the makeup products that have made the grade this year and are now full time residents in my makeup bag. Some of these are old favourites and some are products that I've encountered this year and absolutely loved. Here are the brands I mention during the episode: @violette_fr @vievemuse @sweedbeauty @itcosmeticsuki @stilauk @maybelline @rubyhammerbeauty @byterryofficial @cbm.colourbymaya @hildunbeauty @toofaced Let me know what you've been loving xx
Tracey Woodward - The Beauty Industry Darling Whose Life Story Will Move and Inspire You
If you only listen to one thing this week make it this. Tracey Woodward is one of the most influential women in the beauty industry, she's also one of the kindest. Her career has seen her hold roles at beauty brands including Aveda, Urban Retreat Spa at Harrods and Harvey Nichols. She's worked as an advisor for Marks & Spencer where she helped re-design and develop the beauty department and was CEO at Aromatherapy Associates (and that's just for starters). But it's not only Tracey's career that is so startling, it's her strength, resilience and the way that she rose like a phoenix from a childhood that could have taken her on a very different path. During this episode, Tracey opens up and talks from the heart about her incredibly difficult childhood, the women who held her hand and helped her to become the person he is today, navigating a very scary cancer diagnosis and how she keeps herself mentally and physically as health and balanced as possible. This is an interview that will stay with you and if you're anything like me, inspire you in a multitude of ways.
The Beauty Agony Aunt Answers Your Questions
I'm testing this new series where I answer all of your most pressing beauty/wellbeing/fragrance/life questions. If I can't answer anything myself I'll ask one of the many brilliant experts that I know and love. This week I'm answering your questions about budget BB Creams, sunscreen for sensitive eyes, LED masks and I have some advice about prescription skincares. If you'd like to ask me anything contact me via DM on my insta @outspokenbeautynicola or email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk.
Scented Sunday - (Some of) My Top Fragrances of the Year
On Thursday Suzy Nightingale and I hosted our incredible annual event, On The Scent Live. We both chose four of our top fragrances of the year to talk about and in the first installment of this brand new series, I wanted to talk you through my choices. They are all different and incredible in their own rights and I'll explore what makes each one so special. If you adore fragrance make sure that you have a listen to The On The Scent Podcast this and every Thursday. Here are the scents I mention: Hermés Barènia Merit Retrospect Thameen Centre Stage BDK Rouge Smoking
My Top 10 Skincare Products of 2024
It's that time of the year again..my annual round up of my top products of the year. This is the first installment and I'll be talking through my top skincare products of 2024. I wonder if any of your favourites have made it onto the list! I'd love to hear what you've loved this year. Let me know via my Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.
Shannon Lawlor - The Beauty Editor Extraordinaire
In this episode I'm chatting to the thoroughly brilliant Executive Beauty Editor of Marie Claire, Shannon Lawlor. During the episode she tells me about her brilliant career journey and gives a great insight into the (always fascinating) world of magazines. Shannon is such a knowledgable and trusted voice in beauty. I love her opinions combined with her utter passion for fragrance. Enjoy getting to know this brilliant woman.
Keshia and Fleur East - The Multi-Talented Sisters Who Are Building A Hair Empire
In this episode I have the pleasure of interviewing singer and broadcaster Fleur East and her amazing sister, makeup artist Keshia. Fleur and Keshia have joined forces to found a beautiful haircare brand called Kurl Kitchen and this episode is their story. Get ready to hear about: - Their childhood and sibling relationship over the years - Why having Keshia as her makeup artist when she was singing was massively positive for Fleur - Why the death of their beloved dad inspired them to start a business together - The birth of Kurl Kitchen and why it represents both their mum and dad - The ups and downs of building their beauty brand and how everything nearly fell apart - Sourcing incredible ingredients from Ghana and bringing them to the UK - The beauty products they love This is the most inspiring episode and I can't tell you how much I love their relationship. You're going to really enjoy this one xx
Minipod - My Top Black Friday Beauty Picks
In this week's minipod I'm going through my top beauty picks from the Black Friday Sales. I've included loads of my favourite beauty products that are on special offer and I really hope you find the episode handy. During the episode I talk about products the following brands: Cult Beauty Liberty Space NK Sweed Beauty Vieve Muse It Cosmetics The Constant Candle Co Neom Aromatherapy Associates To The Fairest AKT Color Wow Merit Beauty Tropic Jo Malone London Klira Nursem D.S. & Durga
Bryony and Nicola - Bryony's Wicked Heatbreak and Some Beauty-ful Christmas Gift Ideas
Bryony's back and she's been celebrating her birthday in true Bryony style (with lots of very sparkly and slightly unexpected events). She also has very shocking news about how her Wicked dreams were dashed....it could only happen to Bryony! During the episode we also chat about my strange murder mystery experience and the embarrassing issue that keeps getting worse and we have some great beauty Christmas ideas for you. Enjoy xx
Florence Given Take 2!
I had to re-run this episode with modern day feminist, illustrator and author Florence Given which was recorded when she had just published her first book "Women Don't Owe You Pretty". Fast forward a couple of years and she's now got anotehr Sunday Times Bestseller out. This time it's called Women Living Deliciously and is all about unpacking the barriers we face so that we can access the joy we deserve. During this episode Florence and I take "Women Don't Owe You Pretty" as a starting point for a discussion about the role that beauty plays in a woman's life. Do we wear makeup because it is an expectation that has been set by the patriachy? What exactly is beauty? How much power do we actually have to look how we truly want to? Florence challenges social expectations of beauty and definitely made me revaluate a few things. This is a fascinating episode with a woman who isn't afraid to be truly outspoken.
Laura Coleman- Modelling, Knitting and Learning to Go With The Flow
In this episode I chat to the thoroughly lovely model, mother and knitter extraordinaire, Laura Coleman. I met Laura when we were chatting on a panel about beauty standards and found that we shared many of the same beliefs about the pressure that is put on women to look a certain way. Laura talked about how she has stopped worrying about how she looks and started accepting what she sees in the mirror. During the podcast Laura and I talk about how she has learnt to go with the flow and not overthink things. This has led to her life being far less stressful. She chats about shunning the constant life advice that she is fed on social media in favour of doing the things that make sense to her (ie Don't force yourself to do a workout if your body is telling you it needs a nice lie down on the sofa with a cuppa). Laura also tells me about the huge part that knitting plays in her life, the beauty products that make her happiest, coming to terms with stretch marks and lets me into the secret of her INCREDIBLE necklaces. I love Laura. She is a warm, kind, down to earth soul who makes you feel like we sometimes need to take life a little less seriously and calm the F down (which is definitely what I need!) Enjoy this Outspoken Beauties xx
Michaella Mazzoni - If You Have PCOS You Need To Hear This!
In this episode I’m chatting to Michaella Mazzoni, a recovered FMS patient and award winning registered BANT Nutritionist. (As seen in Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Glamour, BBC Good Food and more). Michaella has sat at both sides of the appointment table, first as a patient and now as a healthcare practitioner. She has endometriosis and PCOS, two common hormone conditions that 1 in 10 women have in the UK and has found that how she eats has a massive, positive impact on her hormonal health. During the episode we talk about how PCOS can affect health as we get older and what can be done about it. We also have a wider conversation about hormone health and how we can empower ourselves to improve how we feel through our lifestyle choices. Michaella is brimming with knowledge and is so experienced. I hope you get lots out of our chat whether you have PCOS or are simply struggling with your hormones.
Michaella Mazzoni - Taking Control of PCOS
In this episode I’m chatting to Michaella Mazzoni, a recovered FMS patient and award winning registered BANT Nutritionist. (As seen in Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Glamour, BBC Good Food and more). Michaella has sat at both sides of the appointment table, first as a patient and now as a healthcare practitioner. She has endometriosis and PCOS, two common hormone conditions that 1 in 10 women have in the UK and has found that how she eats has a massive, positive impact on her hormonal health. During the episode we talk about how PCOS can affect health as we get older and what can be done about it. We also have a wider conversation about hormone health and how we can empower ourselves to improve how we feel through our lifestyle choices. Michaella is brimming with knowledge and is so experienced. I hope you get lots out of our chat whether you have PCOS or are simply struggling with your hormones.
Minipod - Fabulous Beauty Buys of The Week (and some great gift ideas)
I've discovered some really excellent products recently and can't wait to share them with you. This week I'm talking about: - My new favourite lipstick and pencil - A lovely spf for this time of year - The perfect pillow spray that I carry in my handbag at all times - My favourite new eye cream - How to gift fragrance well Plus I'll reveal why I experienced real life Motherland yesterday!
Bryony and Nicola - Cat Milk, Bryony's Miraculous Manifestation and Our Beauty Highlights
It's time for another dose of the wonderful Bryony Blake. In this episode: - Bryony has been manifesting and her dream has officially come true - I'm discussing why I find certain varieties of milk and cheese abhorrent - Bryony tells us why our eyelashes might be shrinking - I ask Bryony a VERY personal question - We discuss cosy candles - We have lots of lovely beauty recommendations Enjoy our fortnightly feelgood episode xx
OSB x Avon - How Avon Changes Lives
This Episode Is In Partnership With Avon In this episode, inspired my amazing experience at the Avon Conference earlier this year, I'm exploring what it's truly like to be an Avon representative and how this company not only empowers but truly changes lives. During the episode I'm chatting to Tracey Powers who is the UK Sales Director and who totally blew me away with her energy and passion when I met her at the conference. She'll be giving us a behind the scenes insight into what Avon stands for and how their beliefs translate to their community of representatives in the very best and most empowering way. Next we hear from Leigh Ann and Janine, both of whom have had their lives changed by Avon and open up about the challenges that they have overcome thanks to thier decisions to become representatives. This is an amazing episode. giving a rare insight into a company that truly makes a difference.
Minipod - The Best Ankle Boots, The Genius Nail Polish Pen and My Dream Face Mask
In this week's minipod I have lots of lovely things to tell you about including the best ever ankle boots, a face mask that gave me the most gorgeous, hydrated skin today, a nail polish product that will make your gel manis last longer and loads more. Enjoy xx
Daniel Lustig - The Gogglebox Star on Love, Life, Irresistible Fragrance and Hair!
What a fabulous guest I have in store for you! In this episode I'm chatting to Gogglebox star and hairdresser extraordinaire Daniel Lustig. Daniel was a much loved star of the show and after leaving in 2023 and the break-down of his marriage with fellow star Stephen Webb, is now re-evaluating his life and getting ready for a new start. During the episode we chat about: - What actually goes on behind the scenes of Gogglebox - Coming to terms with a public breakup - His career as a hairdresser and what he loves about the hair and beauty industry - Beauty tips - Male hormones - Male makeup - The fragrance that has people chasing Daniel up the street And more.... Enjoy getting to know this thoroughly lovely man!
Andrea Thompson - The Editor in Chief of Marie Claire UK
In this episode I welcome the truly brilliant journalist and editor Andrea Thompson. Andrea is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire UK and is a woman who has made it her personal mission to tell the stories that matter, winning awards for her pieces about people who are mariginalised by society, diversity and sustainability. She is also incredibly down to earth whilst being naturally glamourous and beautiful both inside and out and during the episode we talk about her career, her beauty and wellbeing habits and so much more. Enjoy getting to know this wonderful woman!
Andrea Thompson - The Editor In Chief of Marie Claire UK
In this episode I welcome the truly brilliant journalist and editor Andrea Thompson. Andrea is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire UK and is a woman who has made it her personal mission to tell the stories that matter, winning awards for her pieces about people who are mariginalised by society, diversity and sustainability. She is also incredibly down to earth whilst being naturally glamourous and beautiful both inside and out and during the episode we talk about her career, her beauty and wellbeing habits and so much more. Enjoy getting to know this wonderful woman!
My Top Cosy November Scents
In this week's minipod I'm talking you through my top cosy, warming and sultry scents now we're in November. You'll find all different price points and each fragrance is incredibly special and well made. The brands I mention are: @avon_uk @edenisteparfum @maisonlouismarie @andotherstories @neomwellbeing @commodity Oh and I'll also tell you how I faced some rahter large spiderrs head on :0)
Bryony, Nicola AND Emily Are Redefining Youth With Tropic Skincare
*This Episode is (Em)powered by Tropic * In this episode, Bryony Blake and I are joined by our wonderful friend and the Director of Marketing at Tropic Skincare, Emily Mitchell. Emily is such a wonderful human being and during the episode we chat about what #RedefineYouth means to us and why the campaign has aligned so well with everything that Tropic stands for. I also read out some of the wonderful messages from you, Outspoken Beauty community. SO many of you have embraced the idea of challenging yourselves to leave your comfort zones and do some truly incredible things over the past few months. I'm truly in awe of you. I'm forever grateful to Emily and Tropic for supporting this project and for helping so many of us to think beyond society's expectations and rediscover the things that truly matter to us and it doesn't end here. Let's carry on redefining youth together.
Minipod - Cult Body Sprays, Looking After Pierced Ears and Controlling Static
In this week's minipod I'm talking: - The best static-reducing hair spray - A friend's romantic book recommendation (A Court of Thorns and Roses) - 11+ frustration - My weird relaxation technique - Mole checks - Pierced Ear tips And more. Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx
Bryony and Nicola - Botox But Not Botox, Knitted Tea Parties and Illegal Activities At The Zoo!
Bryony Blake is back for another fun and beauty filled episode. I think the title says it all but this week Bryony has had a very special beauty treatment, she's sharing her disdain for sweet, knitted things and I nearly got arrested (OK slight exaggeration but I COULD have been) at the zoo. Plus we have your beauty recommendations of the week. Happy listening Outspoken Beauties xx
Mini Mini Pod - The Lowdown on Merit's Big Perfume Launch Plus Embarrassing Stories!
On today's mini mini pod I'll tell you my impressions of one of the perfume launches of the year. I'll also share some of your brilliant beauty recommendations and funny/embarrassing stories. What better start to the week? x
Dr Naomi Potter Reloaded
It was Menopause Day on Friday so I wanted to publish this interview I did with the brilliant menopause doctor Naomi Potter. Naomi has helped thousands of women through her Menopause Care Clinics and has worked with Lisa Snowdon to help equip women with as much information as possible. During the episode she gives great advice and info which I hope you find really useful xx
The Big Beauty News Roundup!
In this episode I'm doing a beauty news roundup for you. From the new Sol de Janeiro fragrance that's causing quite the stir to what's happening during British Beauty Week next week to a suprising new beauty trend, this is your beauty industry update (she says in a newsreadery voice). Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx
Minipod - Your Questions Answered
Last night I went on my Insta Stories (@outspokenbeautynicola) and did an "ask me anything". As ever, your questions were brilliant and varied and in this episode I'll be covering everything from finding a therapist to prescribing fragrances to chatting about life with two kids. I'll also recommend the most incredible eyeliner that I'm a little bit obsessed with to say the least!
Mini Mini Pod - Ruby Hammer Beauty Rocks!
In this week's mini mini pod I'm talking you through Ruby Hammer's wonderful collection of products. She has curated the perfect beauty collection and everything is such good quality, never overly priced and most importantly worth your hard earned cash. Enjoy xx
Baby Loss Awareness Week - Michelle and Gerry's Stories
Be Aware This Episode Discusses Baby Loss It's Baby Loss Awareness Week and in this episode I chat to Michelle and Gerry, two incredibly brave women who wanted to come on the podcast and chat about their own experiences of baby loss and how they have come to terms with it. Gerry and Michelle are both so honest about what happened to them and the very different ways that they dealt with it. They wanted to share their experiences so that they could help others and during the conversation they recommend charities that can help families going through the same and also give really good advice when it comes to how to communicate how you are feeling to those around you (plus the most helpful things we can say to people who have lost babies). Whilst this is a hearbreaking topic, it's an important one to open up about. SO many women lose babies at all stages of pregnancy and the grief can be overwhelming. Gerry and Michelle have sad stories to tell but as you'll hear, there are also parts that are uplifting and the journey that both women have been on will I hope give hope to many. Here are some of the charities mentioned during the episode: Sands - helpline@sands.org.uk 0808 1643332 The Lullaby Trust - support@lullabytrust.org.uk 0808 8026869 Tommy's - mailbox@tommys.org.uk 0207 398 3400 The Miscarriage Association - info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk 01924 200799
Minipod - Effortlessly Chic Nails and Womens Health
In this week's Minipod I'm talking about the products that make my nails glow, improve their health and are SO easy to apply. I'll also be chatting about why we need to be talking about womens health more and giving you some more lovely recommendations. Ps Let me know what you think of the new theme tune!!