Outspoken Beauty

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!

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@commodityOh and I'll also tell you how I faced some rahter large spiderrs head on :0)

This week I have an edit of 5 fabulous products to lift your mood.From bath oils to eyeliners to the affordable fragrance set that will blow your mind and my must have supplements, I hope you find this edit useful and beautifully mood boosting!xx

*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. 

In this week's minipod I'm talking:The best static-reducing hair sprayA friend's romantic book recommendation (A Court of Thorns and Roses)11+ frustrationMy weird relaxation techniqueMole checksPierced Ear tipsAnd more. Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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 1643332The Lullaby Trust - support@lullabytrust.org.uk 0808 8026869Tommy's - mailbox@tommys.org.uk 0207 398 3400The Miscarriage Association - info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk  01924 200799

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!!

This week Bryony and I are both feeling pretty hormonal. After we help each other out of our initial grump we're talking ghosting, dating, exes and we're answering lots of your excellent questions. PLus there's beauty advice and lots more xx

It's time for my Mini Mini Pod and this week I'm chatting about some of the products that my Mum and I loved during a visit to Selfridges last week. I'm also talking about the ultimate glow for party season and reiterating how important checking our boobs is!!

In this episode I chat to an incredibly inspiring headmistress who opens up about her long journey to having the confidence to express herself within a profession that sets firm rules and expectations.Lara Pechard works in a world where both the parents and her peers alike (often headmasters) have certain preconceptions about how a headmistress should look and present herself. She explains how it has taken her years but that she now has the attitude that she is who she is and that her external attributes should have nothing to do with her skills as the head of a school.We chat about the importance of being yourself and not allowing yourself to be judged and also have a fascinating talk about how to look after our childrens' mental health (Lara has won awards for her work around mental health in schools). We even have time to chat about her passion for fragrance!I wish that more heads of schools had the confidence and self assuredness to show their students that we need to believe in who we are and express that to the world. Sometimes "breaking the rules" can be the most powerful and freeing thing we can do for ourselves and set the very best example to those around us.

In this week's minipod I'll be telling you about some inspiring people I met at last night's launch of Klira at the French Pharmacy in London's Marleybone and what they have taught me.Related to that I also have a recommendation for the most INCREDIBLE book on perimenopause. With good womens' health info still severely lacking, this book will help you understand so much about what is happening to you and how you can regain control of your health and emotions.I also chat about a brilliant use for Ren's AHA tonic and discuss how facing a big fear can reframe other things in your life in the very best way.Downloads wherever you get your podcasts xx

In this episode I chat through some of the products that I've been trying and testing with as always 100% honest reviews. I also talk about some of my absolute favourite products that really are worth every penny.

This episode is in partnership with K18 HairIn this episode I have such fun getting to know the brilliant hair stylist Eric Vaughn. As well as being a hugely well known salon owner and hair celebrity, Eric is an ambassador for a hair brand that I have loved for a long time, K18.K18 has got some brilliant science going on and Eric explains not only why it's so special but how to use it for the best possible results. As part of this episode I'm also giving away a great bundle of K18 products worth around £300. Make sure you check out my Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola for all the details.I hope you enjoy learning about this very interesting brand from an utterly fabulous man.

In this week's Minipod I'm embracing Autumn and talking about all the lovely Autumnal beauty and wellbeing products that I'm enjoying using. I also have some other recommendations inlcuding the very best hot water bottle and an affordable dress that will suit every occasion.

Bryony and I had the BEST time recording this in the studio and we laughed so much I thought someone was going to tell us to be quiet!During the episode:Bryony reveals something very personal about her feelings towards cotton woolI make a very important discovery about Pacey from Dawson's CreekWe chat about what Dirty Dancing means to us which leads to a chat about holiday romances..good and bad!We also recommend lots of products and have a chat about the best beauty advent calendars xx

A little makeup bag delve to start your week.Lots of affordable products in here that are absolutely brilliant including the perfect liquid blush for £5.99 xx

This episods is in partnership with New Nordic (Janette is one of their brand ambassadors)I'm so excited to welcome the absolutely brilliant Janette Manrara on today's episode.Janette, who many of us know and love as a Strictly Come Dancing dancer and judge is also a TV presenter and author. Her little girl is one year old and she recently turned 40.During the episode we chat about the eternal juggle of being a working mum and how there still remains a lot of judgement if we decided to go back to work earlier than people expect us to.We also talk about the things Janette does to feel as good as possible at the same times as being the busiest she's ever been. What are her little tricks for feeling happy and healthy?Janette's mum also makes a hilarious appearance during the episdoe.I absolutely loved everything about this warm, energetic woman and can't wait for you to hear a different side of her.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about the slow but steady build up of stress that has wormed its way back into my life since I've been back from my holiday and how that's impacted my anxiety levels.I also tell you about a fragrance that has not only taken TikTok by storm but that I am utterly in love with....so much so that after spending a day repeatedly sniffing the wrist I tested it on in Selfridges I had to order it online. (It is a real crowd pleaser and needs to be tried!)I also have a recommendation for the best tights ever and a dry body oil that sinks in within seconds and smells delicious.xx

This episode is in collaboration with Marc-Antoine BarroisIn this special episode I'm joined by my On The Scent co-host and wonderful friend Suzy Nightingale as we sit down with @marcantoinebarrois - couturier turned fragrance house founder - for an intimate conversation recorded at the Piccadilly Arcade boutique (just before our On The Scent sold-out live event!) The discussion delves into Marc-Antoine's journey to becoming a renowned name in the world of couture and perfumery.Marc-Antoine shares heartfelt stories about his early passion for fashion, inspired by his grandfather, a textile industrialist in Northern France. His career took off when he was discovered by Dominique Sirop, leading to collaborations with iconic designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier at Hermès and John Galliano. These experiences shaped his distinctive style, characterised by sustainability and timeless elegance.A pivotal moment in Marc-Antoine's life was meeting perfumer Quentin Bisch in 2015. Describing it as meeting a "twin brother," Marc-Antoine recounts how their shared values and creative synergy led to a profound partnership. Together, they embarked on a journey to create unique fragrances that evoke emotions and memories, blending their expertise in couture and perfumery.During the podcast, Suzy and I explore the Marc-Antoine Barrois fragrance universe, uncovering the inspirations and creative processes behind each scent. Marc-Antoine and Quentin's collaboration is marked by mutual respect and trust, allowing them to craft perfumes that are both timeless and innovative.This episode is a testament to Marc-Antoine's dedication to his craft and his ability to inspire elegance and confidence through both fashion and fragrance. I so hope you enjoy listening! 

It's the Monday Mini Mini Pod and I've found the best pair of looser fitting jeans ever and they're only £35!I'm also talking about why we all need more nuts and seeds and how they are changing my health.

She's only gone and done it!Ruth Crilly...supermodel, content creator and creative genius, is one of the funniest and best writers in the business (as anyone who's read her blog/substack can attest to) and now she can finally say that she's a published author as well (and is in the Sunday Times Bestesellers list to boot!)Having known Ruth for a number of years I know that even though she wears many hats, writing is her true passion and in this episode we have a brilliant conversation about her brand new book "How Not To Be A Supermodel".Ruth talks us through how it felt to be told that she had a publishing deal, her writing process and also let us into lots of secrets about some of the personal/shocking and downright hilarious things that she writes about in her book.Ruth is one of my best people to interview and I love how self effacing and genuine she is during this interview. 

In this week's minipod I talk you through the perfumes that I've been wearing this week and why.There's the new one from Givenchy, a sweaty, sexy skin scent that has had me drooling, one that's so cosy and warm that it's like being swaddled in a cashmere blanket and more.If you're on the lookout for a new fragrance then hopefully you'll find something to explore here.

Reunited and it feels so good....Bryony and I are SO happy to be back together in this episode and have a whole load of catching up to do following our holidays.Amongst many other things we talk about:Bryony's CRAZY journey home from TenerifeThe lizard that jumped on Louis' tummy and the chaos that ensuedHoliday buffets and Bryony's partner's fear of themThe pervy man on the EurotunnelThe waitress who arched her eyebrow at me when I ordered the cookie ice cream sundae After the above hilarity, there are loads of really great beauty recommendations including a must have blusher from NYX.xx

I'm starting the week with an important chat about supplements.Lots of us spend so much on them at this time of the year and we need to know what we're buying and why we're buying them. The chances are that we might not need quite as many as we think we do!This is my very mini guide to buying supplements the right way.

This episode is in partnership with Avon's Brand New Fragrance Far Away ShineI've been SO looking forward to publishing this episode and finally being able to tell you about the new Far Away fragrance on the block.As you probably know, I've got a longstanding relationship with Avon that is very important to me. They are a brand that truly democratise beauty, enabling everyone access to truly good quality beauty products as well as empowering women in so many ways. One thing that really stands out is the quality of their fragrances and Far Away Shine is really very special, as you'll hear in this episode.During the podcast I chat to the brilliant Victor Costa who is Avon's Global Head of Fragrance and is incredibly passionate about what he does. He explains how Far Away Shine came into being, what inspired it and how it makes him feel.After this it's the turn of my darling friend and On The Scent co-host Suzy Nightingale, who takes us on a brilliant journey through her imaginative description of the scent. You'll literally feel like you're wearing it.Finally we'll hear from members of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel who have been testing the fragrance over the summer and will give their honest opinions of the perfume.This is a great episode for fragrance lovers who want to discover something truly special and beautifully affordable.

Redefine Youth is Empowered by Tropic SkincareIn this week's Minipod I'm talking about where I'm at with my #RedefineYouth journey and how it's starting to change the way I feel about myself and my life in general for the better.I also talk about the big challenge that I have coming up at the end of the month and give some tips as to how you can join what is starting to become a bit of a movement.Let me know how you're getting on by messaging me @outspokenbeautynicola xx

What a great way to formally begin this new season of Outspoken Beauty.In this episode I speak to the founder of one of the most coveted and iconic skincare brands of recent years, Drunk Elephant.Tiffany tells us about how and why she came up with the idea for her brand, a brand that took the beauty world by storm and was soon adorning the shelfies of any serious skinthusiast.We discuss what Tiffany felt was missing from the skincare world and why she felt that skincare consumers weren't being served what they truly needed for healthy skin.We chat about the inspiration for the brand's name and bright colours and also have an honest conversation about the fact that many younger people have coveted Drunk Elephant and how Tiffany feels about it.Tiffany also chats about motherhood, empty nest syndrome and opens up about her life.This is a really great chance to get to know the woman behind a brand that I know many people are fascinated by.

It's a new season here on The Outspoken Beauty Podcast. I have no idea which one it is but it definitely is new :0)In today's episode I'm talking about fairly (not majorly) luxury beauty products and their brilliant and more affordable counterparts. Don't get me wrong, I love all of them but it's important to cover all bases.I'll be talking about V Beckham Kajal Liners, Caroline Hirons Cleansing Gel and the most STUNNING Penhaligons fragrance for Autumn and then telling you the products that cost more than half the price and are also wonderful. (I love that beauty gives us options!!)Thanks for listening and here's to September! xx

I don't know about you but I still can't let go of the feeling that September represents the start of a brand new term When I was younger, the last few days of the summer break were filled with dread as I bought my new stationary and school shoes, but now I'm an adult I try to embrace the change in pace and season and often use beauty to reframe things.In this episode I'll chat through nail, body, hair and makeup tips to both physically and mentally reset us for the months ahead. I'll also talk about the changes I'm planning on making in the coming weeks to make myself feel positive and healthy.

In this week's mini minipod recorded on my holiday in France I get outspoken about an article I read about facelifts for women over 40 which then leads me to chat about current beauty standards, what I think we should actually be spending our money on and why and all in just over 5 minutes!! I really am Le grand grump but I think for good reason and I hope this episode resonates with you xx

In this special episode recorded in France I talk about my longheld love of French pharmacies and why even though we can now get many of the products in the UK, there is still something really magical about buying beauty products the French way.I start by going through some of the brilliant bits and pieces that I've found in the local French Pharmacy here in South West France and why A313 retinol cream may not be quite as amazing as people say it is (according to an actual French pharmacist!).Then I talk you through the beauty products that one of my French beauty icons uses and adores....Valerie was an incredibly glamorous model who came to London to learn English. She lived with my family, helped look after me and my sister and became like a sister to me and a best friend to my mum. It was Valerie who not only made me fall in love with French culture but who taught me all about makeup. I'll never forget the excitement in my mum's eyes as Valerie introduced her to the latest French beauty products and trends. Anyway, we were messaging earlier and she sent over a list of all of her favourite French beauty products which I of course share with you during this episode.All in all, if you're into beauty then I reckon you'll be planning a trip to France by the time this episode is finished.Bisous mes beautés franches

It's become traditional for me to record holiday minipods and this is the first little catch up from France.In this episode I'm telling you about some of the things I'm doing on holiday to help me with my Redefine Youth* project. (I'm having so much fun doing this and it is totally changing the way I think about myself and life in general).I also talk about my holiday skincare routine and why I'm sticking with my Klira even though I'm out in the sun each day.In the next episode I'll chat through some of my top French beauty buys.BisousNicola x*Redefine Youth is (em)powered by Tropic Skincare

What a refreshing and enlightening interview this was!Dr Emily Leeming is a true gut expert (not one of the many people online who purport to be one) who has studied our microbiomes more than anyone I've ever encountered and is on a mission to help us feel better by looking after our "2nd brains" in a simple yet really effective way.During the episode we chat about the microbes that live on and in our body and how without them we would find it hard to survive. Emily myth busts in a big way, explaining why probiotics are not generally the answer and why rather than populating our guts with supplements, we need to look after and diversify them with diet, social interaction and other simple but truly effective tricks for health.I ask Emily so many questions (I couldn't get them out quickly enough) and just know that this episode is going to help so many people.I also have to point you to her AMAZING book Genius Gut which I devoured in a day. Please listen to this episode if you have time. It will help you without overwhelming or encouraging restrictive or comlex diets. Emily is indeed a genius!

In this week's minipod I'm sharing wisdom from some of the most brilliant women that I've spoken to....wisdom about mental health, wisdom about chasing your career dreams, wisdom about womens health and why vaginal oestroegen might help you with a plethora of issues including UTIs and incontinence.I also needed to add a bit of beauty in so you'll hear about my current skincare too.I think this is a really important episode and hope it empowers you to take control of a few aspects of your life that are so very easy to lose the way with.

Bryony and I have such a great catch up this week.As ever we cover a lot of ground including:The weirdest argument that I've ever had with Chris (involving green icing and aliens)Bryony's hippy festival experienceMy tips for overcoming a very embarrassing situation The best top ever that can be worn without a braBryony's ultimate lip treatmentAnd lots more....Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

My guest in this episode is psychotherapist, bestselling author, speaker and incredible human being Anna Mathur.Anna talks about mental health in the most approachable of ways, often opening up about her own challenges and sharing how she has overcome them. She has written a series of exceptional books aimed at new mothers but her most recent one, The Uncomfortable Truth is for absolutely everyone and is all about facing and accepting our deepest fears in order to live freely and peacefully.During the episode we talk about so many pertinent challenges that I know a huge amount of us face. From the fear of losing our loved ones to dealing with relationships with others and ourselves and what to do if anxiety hits us, Anna has such insightful advice and amazing stories to tell. We chat about life being short and how important it is to live as our authentic selves and why what others think about us really is of no concernt to us (If people judge it is through the lens of their lives and there is nothing we can do about it so why not just let it go!)I can't believe how much wisdome Anna fits into our hour together but I do know that she has made me feel so much stronger in so many ways and that she will do the same for you. So, listen to the podcast and make sure you have a read of her incredible book. It might just change your life for the better xx

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about my return to using skincare brand Klira (now that my barrier is finally repaired) and the huge difference that I've seen already. I also mention an excellent eye makeup remover for sensitive eyes, my absolute top makeup brand of the moment and some more truly great products.I'm also updating you on #redefineyouth (em-powered by Tropic Skincare) and some of the challenges that I've completed this week. I read out emails from you my fellow Outspoken Beauties who have already joined the movement and are doing brilliant things.If you'd like to take part let me know and make sure you tag me in anything that you do xx

In this episode I have a long overdue catch up with Beauty Editor and digital creator Alessandra Steinherr. Alex was the Beauty Director of Glamour Magazine for over a decade and then launched her own beauty consultancy business. As well as being hugely popular on social media, Alex is currently the beauty editor of The Glossary Magazine.During the episode Alex and I chat about how her career has pivotted, the ups and downs of life on TikTok, passion for fragrance and the beauty products that Alex has sworn by for years and will never be without.Enjoy this catch up with one of the true beauty editor icons.

The Mini Mini Pod is back with two really excellent recommendations (if I do say so myself).The bronzer in particular has become my new favourite makeup item xx

This episode is supported and (em)powered by Tropic SkincareI am so excited to introduce you one of the kindest, funniest, biggest personalities in the beauty industry. Carlton Connell is the MD of Tropic Skincare and during this episode he tells me about his incredible journey from West End star to the heart of the beauty industry and how a chance meeting with Tropic's CEO Susie Ma was to shape his career in the most amazing way.As well as Carlton's journey, we have a brilliant discussion about my #redefineyouth project that Tropic are so kindly supporting. Carlton talks about challenging himself to be true to who he is in any scenario, expressing himself with fashion and why this project is so important to him.If you want to get involved with #redefineyouth make sure you add the # to any challenges that you set yourself and keep listening to the podcast for more updates. 

*Tropic Skincare are supporting the entire #RedefineYouth project*In this week's minipod I'm telling you about something that I've been planning for a long time. For the next couple of months or so I'm challenging us to think about being youthful in a whole new way and in doing so, to hopefully change how we feel about ourselves forever.During the minipod I'll talk about what made me come up with #redefineyouth and how we can all take part in a project that I hope will make us feel confident, happy and ready for anything!Thanks so much to Tropic who have helped make this happen.

It's your fortnightly dose of Bryony Blake style shenanigans.This week we're talking about:Boat parties in Ibiza (with beds)An extremely unsexy moment involving progesterone and an unfortunate poseWhere Bryony was when all the computers stopped workingWe answer lots of your beauty questions and there's an amazing fragrance recommendation.I think you'll enjoy this one :0) xx

It's not every day you get to chat to a real life, modern day witch and my conversation with Semra Haksever @mamamooncandles is something I'll never forget.Semra describes herself as an eclectic witch, intuitive, healer and empath and I love her description of what a witch is:“A witch is a woman who emerges from deep within herself. She is a woman who has honestly explored her light and learned to celebrate her darkness. She is a woman who is able to fall in love with the magnificent possibilities of her power. She is a woman who radiates mystery. She is magnetic. She is a witch.”During the episode we talk about Semra's journey to becoming a witch and why embracing our own inner witch might be the best thing we can do. We chat about owning our power, expressing ourselves and how magical life is when you really stop and think about all the wonderful things we encounter on a daily basis. We also talk about how important it is to express our frustrations in the loudest way possible, why the moon is truly incredible and so much more.Semra also chats about the love and magic that goes into her (exceptional) candles and perfume oils.I truly think that you'll leave this episode feeling uplifted and somehow more powerful/ready to greet whatever life throws at you.

There are so many brilliant new products around and I was in the mood for a good delve into what I'm liking and testing at the moment for this week's minipod.I'll be talking about a new barrier loving skincare live from the derm who treats Lady Gaga and The Kardashian's, a beautiful moisturising emulsion from one of Lisa Eldridge's favourite brands, a rosy/bronzy glow that is irresistible, a bronzing fluid from a top skincare brand and lots more.I'll link to all products mentioned in my Instagram stories xx

It was such a pleasure to record this episode!Claudia Talsma is one of the loveliest people I have come across in the beauty industry and is also co-founder of some truly excellent brands including Rosalique which is specifically for those of us who struggle with sensitive, rosacea prone skin.As well as doing great things in beauty, Claudia lives in the country side, surrounded by animals which are hugely important to her.During the episode we talk about Claudia's career, working with her partner, the importance of animals and nature for mental health, sensitive skin, her favourite beauty products and so much more.Enjoy getting to know this truly fabulous woman.

Let's start the week with a recommendation for the ultimate feel good, refreshing and quite frankly gorgeous scent that you'll be splashing all over yourself this summer.

In this episode I get to know the exceptionally talented makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis aka Lans London.Lan is a world renownded artist and is the woman behind many of the most famous faces around including Raye and Paloma Faith.During the episode we chat about Lan's incredible journey and how this self taught artist went from doing makeovers for women who were having professional photos taken to becoming one of the most coveted makeup artists in the world.

This week's minipod is a bit of a catch up. I chat about my (really positive) experience of micro-blading, why I'm taking progesterone pessaries and what my hormones are doing and where I'm at with my skincare.

The lovely and super talented makeup artist Bryony Blake is back and this week we're chatting about my interview with a real life witch and the quesitonable experience I had with a psychic.Bryony has had an amazing makeup experience and we're chatting about relationships where we felt inferior to our other halves.There's also Bryony's experience of ear seeds and lots more thrown in for good measure.xx

In today's Mini Mini Pod I talk about the amazing benefits of The Nue Co's fragrance Forest Lungs and how I use it when I'm feeling below par.

Laura Dowling is the person that every woman needs in her life and I'm so happy to have her as my guest in this incredibly informative episode.Laura, who is a highly experienced pharmacist, wants women to learn how to take control of their health and spends a lot of her time demystifying and debunking myths about medication and medical conditions. She also has toured Ireland encouraging women to learn and be open about sex, vulvas, menopause and so much more.As well as all of this amazing work, Laura is the founder of a brilliant supplement brand called Fabuwellness, where her wide medical and scientific knowledge have helped ensure that her supplements really do what they say they will and are packed with great quality ingredients.During the episode we talk about our frustration at how the pharmaceutical industry for so long made medication that had only been tested on men because womens' hormones made us too "complex". We also talk about protecting our health, the peri/menopause and why vaginal oestrogen can be a total gamechager for many many women. There is a lot of humour too (Laura has a giant, cuddly vulva which she takes along to her events nd shows me during the episode and that's just for starters).Enjoy getting to know and learning from this truly remarkable and really lovely woman.

In this week's minipod I'm answering some of questions that you asked me on Instagram.Amongst other things I cover "pheremone scents" that smell irresistibly sensual when worn alone but also layer perfectly. I'm also talking about my favourite sex toy, how my anxiety is and I chat through my favourite mascaras. Loved recording this. Feel free to send your questions over any time to @outspokenbeautynicola.

In this episode I'm listing some of my favourite summer holiday products. (It's like one big rain fest in the UK at the moment so I'm indulging in a bit of escapism).I can absolutely vouch for all of the products I talk about. They do what they say they will and many of them are an utter pleasure to use and fill me with instant holiday joy.From fragrance to spf to a super light but hydrating body oil to the product that will keep your skin in check, I've got you covered. 

In this week's mini mini pod I'm talking about a product that really helps to calm me down. I also mention how you can cleverly use scent to make positive associations that will help you when things are more challenging.

My guest this week is the perfect woman to listen to if you're already getting stressed at the thought of wearing a bikini this summer.Katie Sturino is a body acceptance advocate, founder of the amazing brand Megababe (they do the best anti-chafe stick in the business) and author of the brilliant book "Body Talk".During the episode we talk about the moment that Katie realised that it wasn't just her who was unhappy about her body but also a lot of the women who had the bodies that she dreamt. In short, women had been taught to feel unfulfilled with their bodies and THAT was the problem. Cue a shift in mentality and the beginning of Katie's journey as a body acceptance ambassador who has been so influential that Oprah invited her on her show to relay her message to the nation.Katie also talks about how to stop people commenting on your weight, how to feel good about yourself and we also talk about how she has made the most amazing business (and the ups and downs of that).Katie is funny, outspoken, irreverent and will make you feel good about yourself. I adore her and am so excited about this episode.

This week I had the honour of interviewing Lans Nguyen-Grealis, one of the world's truly great makeup artists. Every time you see Raye or Paloma Faith looking fabulous, you can bet your bottom dollar that Lans was the woman who made them up. Anyway, following our amazing interview (coming soon), Lans let me have a good old look at her (huge) makeup kit and also made some excellent recommendations which I'm sharing with you on this week's minipod.I'll also be talking about the affordable cabinet that I use for fragrance storage, a really affordable and beautiful high street scent and more.Enjoy xx

I know I know...this is meant to be a beauty podcast! But the thing is that once Bryony and I start talking we basically have no idea where the conversation is going to go! This week we chat throughGlastonbury and lost tentsNudist Festival etiquette and our feelings about the Killing Kittens Sex CruiseHow we feel about the general election and why we both HATE it when politicians feed us BSMakeup by MarioSome great beauty productsAlso.. as promised, the shoes that I mention are from Esska.

If you're looking for warm skin, bursts of fresh neroli and the most sensual dry down...if you like Tom Ford Neroli Portofino but want something a bit different....if you want a scent that simmers on warm skin but is also bursting with sunlight, then you need to listen to today's mini mini pod xx

In this episode I'm joined by presenter, Sunday Times bestseller, Mum, former popstar and all round wonderful woman Frankie Bridge.Frankie and I had so much fun recording this episode and cover a whole host of beauty related topics including products and beauty habits that make Frankie feel great, how Frankie's attitude to beauty and the way she feels about herself has changed as she's got older, Frankie busts some beauty myths and we also have a great chat about how we apporoach mum life.Frankie was such a pleasure to chat to and I left the interview with a huge smile on my face. I hope you do the same :0)*Although Perfectil is mentioned by Frankie, this episode of Outspoken Beauty is not sponsored*

Thanks for all of the questions you asked me on Instagram (@outspokenbeautynicola) this week.I'm chatting about brown mascara, the Lisa Eldridge products that I recommend, Led Masks, the best upper eyelid eyeliners and I also tell you about a sensational fragrance.Enjoy :0)

When I started Outspoken Beauty I knew that beauty was the perfect starting point for deeper conversations and this week's guest is the perfect example of this.Sallyha Din has a huge story to tell about family, culture and the challenges of shrugging off others' expectations in order to forge your own path. This is the story of how a woman who was expected to abide by strict cultural rules went her own way and reclaimed her body, her image and her passions.Sallyha Din is a passionate motorcyclist and we'll hear about how this came about and the path it has taken her on. Of course there is a huge beauty angle, with Sallyha chatting through her very favourite products, including those that stay perfectly put under her biker's helmet.Here are some of the products that Sallyha mentions:Caudalie Beauty ElixirAurelia Miracle Cleanser & Anti Pollution MaskHaus Labs Blush OPI Nail EnvyPalette Nail PolishPlease do follow Sallha on Insta @sallyhadin - her pictures and content are beautiful and she makes me want to get on a motorbike and zoom into distant lands.

In this week's Mini Mini Pod I tell you about the perfect red/orange lipstick that made me feel so glamorous over the weekend. I also have the perfect fragrance for you if you're someone who doesn't gravitate towards Chanel no 5 but wish that you did. Finally I tell you how I've turned my skin around after my terrible inflammation last week.

I haven't stopped thinking about this episode since I recorded it and it definitely goes down as one of favourite ever interviews.My guest is the incredible Dr Alex Box and boy does she have an impressive CV!  Alex is an internationally renowned artist and beauty futurist who has redefined the role of creativity in makeup, beauty and identity. She was the creative director of Illamasqua (she's the woman who put it on the map as being a brand that challenged the beauty status quo and took it to cult status), her TedX talk is truly inspiring and she has also worked with everyone from Chanel to Vivienne Westwood. Alex has recently founded V-Metics which is at the forefront of the future of makeup design and she is truly one of the most exciting and fascinating women I have ever met.During the episode Alex talks about challenging the status quo from a young age and the incredible path that it took her on. We chat about what beauty means, where it's going and why Alex sees it as her role to help shape it's future. We cover so much more ground and I can't wait for you to hear what Alex has to say. I hope she inspires you as she has me.

In this week's minipod I'm answering the questions that you asked via Instagram.From the best pedicure to relationships and loneliness to sensitive skin to SPF, I can't actually belive how much I've managed to fit in.xx

Bryony Blake is back for our fabulous fortnightly episode.This week we're talking:Feeling stoned on progesteroneThe Summertime Ball and why I thought I was going to fall out of my seatBryony's strange theory about Taylor SwiftOur views on Stanley Cups and Air-ups The awkward thing that can happen in therapy that we've both experiencedBryony's amazing OK Beauty boxWe answer your beauty and non beauty related questions.It's a good one Outspoken Beauties. Hope it brings a smile to your face xx

I'm so excited to tell you about the bronzing liquid that's revolutionised my makeup. I adore it. It's not as easy to use as some but once you master it you'll thank me!

In this episode I chat to the incredible Vic Ceridono who has pivotted from being the beauty editor at Vogue Brazil to not only starting a hugely popular beauty website/blog called @diadebeaute but has also launched her own utterly fabulous beauty brand @vic_beaute.Vic, who will join me again for an episode about her career and beauty picks, spends this short episode talking about all things Brazilian beauty. From the hair movement that has made women feel empowered to the huge effect that the heat has on beauty to the intrinsic way that beauty culture is intertwined with life, this is a really interesting delve into both the universality of beauty but also how different it can feel depending where in the world you are.

In this week's minipod I'm getting outspoken about luxury brands and why I think they've gone too far with their current pricing, making things that were once wonderful treats, unobtainable and quite frankly off putting.I'm also listing a few of my top high street makeup buys of the moment. They all cost £11 or under and I rate them just as highly as their designer counterparts.Finally, I talk the steps I'm currently take to prevent as much illness as possible rather than wait for it to strike. 

This episode is such a good one.I'm speaking to the awesome makeup artist Donna May. Donna, who was head of makeup at ITV1 for over 20 years had always told herself that she'd one day have her own business and two years ago she walked away from her job to focus in on her own sensational brand.During the episode we talk about her experience of life as a TV makeup artist, starting her brand with £5000 and turning it into something incredible, how hormonal changes are affecting her right now and we also delve into the makeup products that Donna believes we need and those that we most definitely do not. (Donna is a true Outspoken Beauty and only wants us to use what is really necessary). She has some amazing product recommendations to share!Donna's energy, experience and straight talking are so refreshing and I know that you're going to really enjoy this episode.Check out her beautiful products here

In this week's mini mini pod I'm so excited to tell you about the brand that has finally allowed me to wear lovely heels without being in pain all day. I also have the perfect suit all coral liptstick that costs the same as a couple of coffees. Let me know about the products you're loving at the moment and about any beauty bargains that we all need to hear about.If you want to join our private Facebook Community here's the link.

In this episode my guest is a woman who has a deep understanding of how the beauty industry works and feeds into modern culture. Ellen Atlanta is a writer and brand consultant specialising in Gen-Z and Millennial culture and  has worked with beauty giants including Estee Lauder, Boots, FeelUnique, Milk Makeup, Flannels Beauty and The Unseen Beauty.Her latest project has seen her become the author of one of the most important books that I've read in a long time. Pixel Flesh is an honest, scary and at times shocking observation of the toxic side of beauty and the online world:"We are living in a new age of beauty. With advancements in cosmetic surgery, augmented reality face filters, photo editing apps, and exposure to more images than ever, we have the ability to craft a version of ourselves that we want everyone to see. We pinch, pull, squeeze, tweeze, smooth and slice ourselves beyond recognition. But is our beauty culture truly empowering? Are we really in control?In Pixel Flesh, Ellen Atlanta holds a mirror up to our modern beauty ideal and the harm it is doing to women all around the world. Weaving in her own personal story with those of other women, she reconfigures our obsession with the cult of beauty and explores the realities of living in a digitally obsessed world where the pressure to present yourself both virtually and in person is all-consuming."During the episode we explore many of the themes in Ellen's book and have a really honest chat about the challenges that so many of us face when it comes to how we perceive and present ourselves to the world. We also look at the empowering and positive side of beauty and how when used in the right way it can build communities and make us feel increible.I hope you enjoy this thought provoking episode and that it sparks a debate about the highs and lows of being a woman in 2024.

In this week's minipod I'm chatting about two clumsy moments this week that left me very red faced.I also have some truly excellent products to tell you about including an incredibly gentle hair brush if hair loss is an issue, an affordable but boujie fragrance and a really great brow product that I NEED to buy.Enjoy!

Bryony is back and this week we're catching up about:Bryony's Bridgerton experience and why it was very nearly ruined by a duckHilarious smear testsWhy Bryony can never look her chemist in the eye againAI and deep fakesAnd we also have some excellent makeup products to share with you with lots of great advice from Bryony thrown in for good measure xx

It's my brief start of the week catch up where I'm talking about how I've shifted my PMT related low mood, the mascara that looks amazing and stays put event throuh tears and the fragrance Bleu Nour Neon Violet which is currently my biggest addiction and costs £36.

In this episode I get to chat to the wonderful content creator Helin Doski.Helin, who recently moved to Dubai, is followed by hundreds of thousands of people on TikTok and Instagram and on paper lives a dream life with incredible press trips, luxurious events and a wardrobe to die for, not forgetting her ability to influence more people than most politicians.During the episode Helin talks honestly about the ups and downs of influencer life and why it isn't always as perfect as it looks. She shares her father's reaction to her career choise (she gave up a future in medicine to create content), the reality of influencer events in Dubai and why people don't always get how much work goes into what she does. She also talks about her own insecurities.Helin also talks about what she loves about her career and we do get to talking about beauty and some of the products that she has discovered and adores since entering this world.I loved getting to know Helin and am so grateful to her for painting a rounded picture of a job that many people covet but don't always fully understand.

In this week's Minipod I have two summer scents that are both fabulous but couldn't be more different.I'll also be telling you about an overnight mask that provides fantastic hydration, a lip balm that doubles as a gloss and I'll be reading a section of the book Pixel Flesh that has really resonated with me.

It's half term and all is a little bit bonkers in the Outspoken Beauty household so for your midweek episode I'm chatting through five books that I think are bloody brilliant and have all taught me so much in different ways. I also have a bit of a wild card for you. I'm currently reading it and it's about a woman who gets to a bit of a impass in her life and decides that the answer is to make her marriage polyamorous. (I'm absolutely hooked).Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

Over the years I've had the honour of interviewing some strong, inspiring and at times life changing women and one of the very best has got to be Jane Wurwand, founder of Dermalogica.I wanted to revisit this episode as it was meeting Jane that propelled me to leave the security of radio and start my podcast fulltime.I believe that we all have the power to make change in our lives. It can be so bloody hard but when you do it, a lot of other things fall into place. If anyone can help you harness that power, it's Jane. xx

In this week's minipod I have some really beautiful products to tell you about including a cleanser that will truly look afer sensitive skin, a fragrance that is reminiscent of a spring walk by the sea in Capri and my fav hair oil of all time. I'll also  bediscussing some great things I learnt from my therapist this week and why getting my crazy periods properly checked out was the best choice I could have made.Enjoy xx

Bryony Blake is back. Now I'll start by saying that we got SO many amazing beauty questions from you this week and we get round to answering lots of them in the second half of the episode.In the first half though, you can expect talk of:The strange thing my mum wants me to do with her ashesThe best teabags in the world (according to Bryony)Eyeball licking (literally don't ask!)Being naked at homeExtreme sex therapyAnd more....Hope we make you smile and giggle and that you get some great beauty tips xx

I love doing my mini mini pod to welcome in the week.This week I'm telling you about one of the best hair products I've ever used and the scent that my friend uses in her house that had me swooning.Enjoy xx

This episode is in partnership with Made of More I'm so excited to publish this episode which is definitely going to make you feel better about things if you, like me, are in a world of hormonal uncertainty.I met Jackie, the founder of the wonderful skincare brand Made of More, at an event a couple of months ago and I instantly adored her. Within moments we were talking openly about our kids, husbands, the challenges of our lives and perhaps most importantly, our hormonal journeys. Hearing Jackie's story I totally got why she launched Made of More and hearing about what she has put into the brand and the quality of her products made me certain that I needed to do this podcast.Jackie wanted this episode to be a combination of advice and education (cue a BRILLIANT opening segment with hormone specialist extraordinaire Dr Sohere Roked and an insight into hormonal skin with Dr Dhesi) and also a chance for you to hear her story and reason for lauching a brand that really does stand apart from all the menopause noise and in some cases BS on the market.If you'd like to explore Made of More then here's a link for you. I think that their Rescue Balm is a sensational product that truly saves skin that is in a bad wayand their Brightening Day Shield is a thing of wonder. If you do decide to go ahead and buy anything then use code NICOLA20 for 20% off sitewide.

It's my weekly bite size dose of product recommendations and a few of the things that have been on my mind.If you'd like to join the Outspoken Trialling Panel DM me and I'll send you a form. It's a great community and you'll get to test products and give your honest thoughts xx

It's Mental Health Awareness Week and my guest is the absolutely amazing human being Cat Sims aka @notsosmugnow. I met Cat at an event for The Eve Appeal and the minute we got chatting I knew that number one that she was my kind of woman and number two, I had to get her on the podcast.This is such an honest and in places raw conversation about everything from gynae health to ADHD to masturbation to parenting to alcoholism. Cat really does leave no stone unturned and her energy and honesty absolutely took my breath away.Preceding my interview with Cat and also as part of Mental Health Awareness Week,  I have a short insight into a wonderful brand called Feather and Down. In this paid for section of the podcast I chat to the lovely Clare Robertson who works for a brand that not only produces affordable and truly beautiful products to help with your nightly sleep routine but that truly wants to help people get good sleep. As you'll hear in the episode, Feather and Down would love you to join their sleep tribe. By signing up HERE  you'll get 25% off site wide plus a free miniature pillow spray with your purchase.Enjoy this special #mentalhealthawarenessweek episode Outspoken Beauties!

If you're after a cooling, light, oil free SPF that is a great price and sits perfectly under makeup then you need to listen to today's episode xx

In this episode I chat tothe wonderful reflexologist Daisy Robinson. Up until very recently Daisy was in the world of beauty PR but deep down she knew that she had a passion for reflexology. She trained extensively in her spare time but it was only fairly recently that she had the confidence to bite the bullet and leave a secure job to start her own business.Daisy talks about following your instinct, taking risks and following your passion and I hope that she will inspire you and help you to realise that if you have always wanted to do something it absolutely IS possible.You can find Daisy on Insta @flow_with_daisy_reflexology and having experienced her skills myself, I can't recommend her highly enough!

It's my weekly minipod and in this episode I have some really beautiful new products to tell you about. I'm also talking about asking your worth and why I really am turning into a moody woman (and I kinda like it :0)

I've been really looking forward to publishing today's episode. It's with beauty journalist, photographer extraordinaire and self proclaimed skincare geek Emma Hoareau.During the episode Emma and I have the most wonderful chat about photography and how Emma loves the world to look, growing up and learning about beauty with a French influence, her thoughts on clean skincare, the amazing power of microneedling and her love of French Pharmacy brands. There are also lots of really great product recommendations and Emma's energy is just so great. I know that you'll love getting to know all about Emma and her world.

In today's Mini Mini Pod I tell you about the silly thing I did to my skin and the product that has turned things around in a matter of days!

*This episode is in partnership with Avon*I'm so excited to finally be able to give you the full lowdown on what I think is one of Avon's most brilliant skincare launches to date. The ANEW Skin Renewal Power Cream has finally arrived and not only can it be used both night and day but it contains wonder ingredient Protinol.During the episode I talk to start by talking to the brilliant Sarah Gillespie who is Avon UK Head of Training. She tells us about the science behind the cream, why it is so special and powerful and also talks us through how we can incorporate it into our routines.Then it's time to chat to Dr Zoya who is an expert in clinical and aesthetic dermatology. She has been testing the cream on her patients and shares the results. She also explains how Protinol works and why this product is so exciting.Finally it's time to have a no holds barred chat with some of the members of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel who have been putting the Power Cream through its paces and are sharing their honest thoughts.I can't wait for you to learn all about this truly brilliant product. It's £16 and gives moisturisers that are 10 times that price a true run for their money. Enjoy! xx

OK so it's not quite thattttt bad but I do:Moan about a new expression that everyone keeps greeting me withMoan about a meal I had with my MumMoan about my PMTMoan about the fact that I can no longer eat sugarTell you about how it took an app to stop me being grumpy with ChrisIn far better news....I share amazing wisdom from an event I went to with Liz Earle and Dr Louise NewsonI have a stunning Australian skincare brand to tell you aboutI share my new health resolutions that I hope will inspire youAnd all in around 10 minutesEnjoy it my outspoken friends xx

It's the fortnightly Bryony fest and this week we're talking about:Ghosts (We have undeniable proof that they exist)Post hotel suites and what REALLY goes on in them (once again, we have proof)Following the recent news story we explore the semantics of what happens when one conjoined twin gets married.and we of course answer your beauty dilemmas and have some lovely recommendations for you. (Bryony is a top makeup artist after all :0)Enjoy and remember to send your beauty dilemmas to @outspokenbeautynicola xx

I've really put AKT natural deodorant through it's paces this past week, even getting poor Chris to do the sniff test at the end of each day. Here are my honest thoughts.

I start this episode with a short sponsored review of the brilliant Current Body LED Face Mask. I'll explain why I think it really stands out in the market and go through some really interesting stats and facts with you. If you'd like to try it following the episode then use code OUTSPOKEN to get 15% off all the Current Body LED Devices.The main episode is with returning guest, the utterly brilliant and leading nutritionist Dr Federica Amati. Federica who is a Clinical medicine research and implementation Scientist focusing on Public Health Nutrition has written a life-changing book called Every BODY Should Know This and it's the ultimate nutrition and health guide for every chapter of life from newborn to old age.Federica doesn't beat around the bush and is upfront and honest in our conversation about what is best for us. (There were a few home truths that were hard to hear but I was so grateful for her honesty).In brief, if we don't change the way we think about our food and health then we may have a long life but there's every chance that it won't be a healthy one. There are changes we can make now that are proven to help protect us from such a huge array of illness and disease and it's our responsibililty to take charge of our health. If this sounds good to you, then listen to what Fed has to say....she'll help you in so many ways and her wisdom and expertise is exceptional.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about knowing what is normal for you whwn it comes to your gynaelogical health and why the minute things become abnormal you need to see a dr and advocate for yourself. (This is after an incredibly inspiring morning spent with the Eve Appeal as they launched their Get Lippy month).I'm also chatting about what I've done over the past week or so to get my confidence back (it involves a few simple beauty tricks and a lacy shirt), a gorgeous cleansing balm and the incredible scarf that does so much good.Enjoy xx

In this episode my guest is the brilliant beauty influencer Zak Heath.Zak who has over a million followers on TikTok is a huge advocate of gender fluid makeup and teaches both women and men how to create beautiful, natural looks.During the episode we chat about the politics around men who wear makeup and why there is often a societal expectation to make it over the top and dramatic when men should be able to enjoy using natural makeup to enhance their features and make them feel more confident.Zak discusses how he is working towards getting for more gender inclusivity in beauty brands and also explores why beauty means so much to him.This is a fascinating conversation and really got me thinking about how gender divisive the beauty industry can be. I can't wait for you to hear it xx

If you want a product that gives you the most healthy, luminous, lit from within glow then you need to listen to today's mini mini pod xx

*This episode is supported by Dr Paw Paw*I was having an Insta-rant about my frustration about bad advice on social media leading teens to buy expensive, highly active skincare that is anything but good for their skin when I received a message from my lovely friend and co-founder of Dr Paw Paw, Pauline Paterson. She was in total agreement and we ended up having a very long phonecall about our sadness about all the misinformation and our fear that it would end up affecting our own kids.By the end of the call I knew that I had to get her on the podcast so that we could share our thoughts.During the episode we chat about bringing up tweens and teens in a world where social media has a huge influence and how to navigate it. (Pauline has a lot of brilliant wisdom to share). We also talk about the kind of ingredients that people of this age should be using and what they most definitely shouldn't!The final part of the episode is very kindly sponsored by Dr Paw Paw Your Gorgeous Skin which is Pauline's amazing skincare line. We talk through the range and the products that are perfect for teens because of their gentle and barrier repairing ingredients.I really hope you enjoy this episode and that you find it helpful whether you have or know teens and tweens who need a bit of gently guidance in the world of skincare.

There's a fair amount squeezed into this week's minipod.I go into detail about Charlotte Tilbury's new fragrance collection and tell you which one I can't get enough of (It's the PERFECT holiday scent). I also have a potentially health-changing book for you, news of a beautiful lipstick launch, the eyelash serum I can't wait to try and the product that's totally upped my hair game. xx

Bryony Blake is back and a lot has been happening!This week we're talking:Bryony's enlightening experience as a bio-dynamic farmerNicola's screaming noseChild and puppy mayhemNicola's fashion fail (thanks a lot Rishi Sunak)And of course we have loads of beauty recommendations and Bryony will be answering lots of your makeup dilemmas.Enjoy xx

Don't tell me what I can and can't wear just because I'm over 40! This tiny episode is for the women who aren't ready to go all soft and subtle with their liners and are far more interested in a bit of rock chic xx

In this episode I speak to the brilliant nutritionist Dominique Ludwig.Dominique is highly qualified and a hugely trusted voice in this field and during the episode we have an in depth chat about how ultra-processed food has become so commonplace and why it is the last thing that we should be eating if we care about our future health.Dominique also gives some brilliant advice and tips for the types of food that can really help us in our 40's + and why eating sufficient protein can be an absolute game changer. She also talks about why diets are a no-no and we need to shift our eating habits to set us up for life.I loved Dominique's no nonsense advice and extensive knowledge and hope that she inspires you to navigate the at times confusing and emotionally charged world of nutrition.

This week's Minipod is unapologetically beauty product focussed and I'll be telling you about some new products on the block that have got me excited.From the do it all Glycolic stick to the hair heat protectant and texturiser in one to the lipstick that really doesn't move, there are so many things to tell you about.Enjoy finding out about these greta new releases.

My guest today is the utterly brilliant Melissa Leong.Melissa is an Australian freelance food writer, food critic, television host and radio broadcaster. She is currently a judge on a series called Dessert Masters and was previously a judge on MasterChef Australia. In 2020 she was named Who Magazine's Sexiest Person of the year. And luckily for us, Melissa is also incredibly eloquent and passionate about beauty, fragrance and wellbeing.Our conversation is one of my favourite types in that we cover so much ground and it is all so interesting and enlightening. From the surprising turn of events in Melissa's career journey to how she handles depression and anxiety to the important lesson she learnt about exercise recently and how she takes herseld out of her comfort zone, there is so much to learn from Melissa. We of course chat about our mutual love for beauty and Melissa talks about her focus on glowing, healthy skin, her favourite style of makeup and what beauty means to her now she is in her 40's.You'll love getting to know Melissa and if you're anything like me, she'll inspire you in a whole host of ways. 

Welcome to my tiny Monday episode. This week I'm waxing lyrical about the benefits of press on nails and which brands I love xx

In this episode I get to know Denny Daily who is a Beauty and Grooming Expert at the Good Housekeeping Institute.During the episode we explore the many elements involved in testing a product at the Institute and why once a beauty product has been highly rated by them, there is every reason for us to trust that it is worth spending our money on as consumers (something that is incredibly important to me).Denny and I also talk about the products that have really stood out to her because they have performed so well across the board.Here are some of the things that she loves and recommends:Lancome Hypnose MascaraClinique high-fi volumizing MascaraMerit beauty Tinted Lip OilOlaplex Dry ShampooElemis Vitamin cElemis Collagen CreamMyVitamins Collagen gummies Quai Body butterProverb Natural DeodorantTropic Morning Mist

In this week's minipod I cover quite a lot in a shirt space of time including:My search for the ultimate, hydrating undereye concealer that doesn't settle in lines and stays putThe glowy base of my dreamsHow I'm taking advice from The Glucose Goddess in my bid to sort out my pre-diabetesThe questios we all need to be asking skincare influencersand more...Enjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

Bryony is back for a  post Easter treat to make you laugh, cry and to answer all of your most pressing beauty questions.In this episode we're talking:Taking photos without people realising (we've been assured that nothing untoward has taken place by Tom the editor who is taking the place of Chris this week...thank God!)Our books of the moment (Bryony is not nice about my most worthy literary choice)A delve into the life of hamsters and why everything I once believed may not be trueAnd of COURSE loads of beauty with your brilliant questions answered and lots of really great product and technique tips.Enjoy and hope we make you smile xx

Joshua Fletcher aka Anxiety Josh is one of my heroes. When I look back at my life and consider the people who really changed it, he will be up there. (When I was in the throes of the worst anxiety imaginable I reached out to him and he not only offered me support and SUCH wisdom but ended up inspiring me to finally get out of the house, after months of hiding in anxiety hell, and get on the tube to London). When I found out that Josh had written a new book I instantly reached out to him. I was desperate to get my teeth into it. I was sent a PDF  and even though it wasn't Kindle compatible and I kept losing my place, I could not put it down. It was the perfect combination of funny, emotional, candid,  informative...it was a truly brilliant book that I knew people would be wanting to read whether they suffered with anxiety or not. I had to get him on the podcast to chat about it!And so here he is. He's a kind. brilliant human being, a truly amazing therapist who excels because he has suffered just like the people he helps and my goodness can the man write. During the episode I get all the gossip about the book (and the characters who inhabit it), we talk about anxiety...fighting it, menopause, life. It's a conversation that I know will benefit so many of you whether you sometimes feel randomly anxious and don't know why or whether you're haunted by intrusive thoughts and panic disorder.As for the book, I've recommended it to everyone I know and you are most definitely included in that. Here's the linkEnjoy this Outspoken Beauties!

Hormones, phones, pre-diabetes, burgundy eyeliners and fragrances that make you feel like you're on a dream holiday in Positano....what more could you want from a minipod on Good Friday?!Enjoy my weekly catch up and don't forget to email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk if you'd like to be a member of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel.

It is such a pleasure to welcome Aimee Connolly, the founder of Sculpted By Aimee, back on Outspoken Beauty.During the episode we reflect on how far she has come and delve into how she is building her beauty empire.Aimee also talks about what her brand stands for and why making makeup easy and accessible is so important to her.We also have a chat about how Aimee juggles her brand and what she does to maintain balance in her life and look after her wellbeing.I love this woman and she really is proof that anything is possible when you put your mind to it.

A little pod to start the week with.Today I'm talking about my current favourite scent that I discovered at an amazing Space NK event last week, why I paid to have an in depth blood test (and think it's a great thing to do) and I also have a code for you (outspoken50) if you'd like half price off your first Klira purchase.Enjoy xx

*This episode is in partnership with Dr Emma Craythorne and Klira*If you're a skincare lover then you're going to adore this episode. I'm chatting to consultant  dermatologist, TV personality (The Bad Skin Clinic) and creator of Klira skincare, the utterly lovely Dr Emma Craythorne.The inspiration for this episode came when I was invited to hear Emma speak about Klira. I was absolutely fascinated when she explained the very many "skin sizes" that exist and how her product caters for each and every one of them whilst also offering actives that truly make a difference. This was personalisation at a whole new level.During the episode we talk about how Klira works and why it is so important to delve into specific sizes rather than making sweeping generalisations (such as "this product is for all menopausall skin")We also chat about the many products that Emma loves using from cleansers to moisturisers to spfs and how Emma's totally female led brand came into existance.I love Emma. She's sassy, funny, intelligent and boy does she get skin! I think you'll get a lot out of this. I also need to add that I've been hooked to Klira and adore what it has done for my own skin. This partnership came about because of my fascination with the brand and love for the product.

I'm doing a very beauty focused minipod this week where I update you on the products that I'm using on repeat and would really miss if they are ever discontinued. These are my mainstays and I am so impressed with them all.I've taken a photo of everything mentioned on today's podcast and will publish it on my Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.Enjoy Outspoken Beauties!

It's time for another great episode with Bryony Blake.Fresh from doing a perfume workshop together earlier in the day, we're chatting about the importance of friends who make you laugh outrageously, my idea for a multi-functional product called The Triple Buzz and Bryony's trip of a lifetime to Universal Studios.After that it's onto all things beauty and Bryony is answering more of your questions with everything from how to stop makeup brushes from going clumpy when you wash them to the very best red lipstick for a bride to whether we need to use essences or not.Enjoy this. It's the perfect combo of fun and beauty tips.

A short and sweet episode for you to start the week with you.I've got a brilliant, balanced breakfast idea that was given to me by the brilliant nutritionist Charlotte Faure Green. It stops blood sugar highs (and lows) and always keeps me nice and full until lunchtime.I also want to tell you about some really beautiful products from Rare Beauty.Enjoy xx

It's so good to welcome the amazing Sam Chapman back on the podcast.During the episode Sam opens up about how she has gone about achieving happiness and balance in her life after her mental health started to suffer. Sam also chats to me about the aesthetic treatments that she has had, how she helps her audience by sharing the details of what has worked for her and why she'll never be having a thread lift again.Later Sam talks me through some of the products that she absolutely swears by, including the foundation that beats all others. We also talk about her amazing partnership with Beauty Pie and how she went about helping to design makeup that works for women of all ages.It was so good catching up with Sam and I can't wait for you to listen to our conversation.

In this week's minipod I talk you through some of the beauty trends that I noticed cropping up at the CEW Beauty Awards Demonstration Evening and the products that I can't wait to try.The event was held at The Business Design Centre in Islington which is a huge venue. As far as the eye could see were tables with people demonstrating the products that they were hoping we would vote for in the upcoming awards.(Which are known as the Oscars of the beauty industry).It was amazing seeing such a wide range of brands both small and large and so many exciting and brilliant products and I can't wait for you to hear about some of them during this episode.

In this thought provoking episode I welcome the amazing Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street, back on the podcast for a chat about all things sex and scent.Michelle and I discuss the way that some perfume is sold to us and why in many ways it feels outdated and demeaning. As consumers what do we actually want from our fragrances? Is it all about attracting someone else or should it be more about what makes us happy and if so should the advertisers re-consider their messaging and imagery?This episode will make you question what fragrance stands for and how as consumers we should expect to be spoken to by the markettiers with the big budgets who don't always seem get it right.

Over the weekend I did a story about IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream and there was much confusion about which one to go for. I hope this little podcast helps you get to know the different versions of this iconic (and brilliant) product a bit better.Ps This is not sponsored/partnered...I have loved the different iterations of this cream for years and buy it on repeat.

I think that this is one of the most important episodes that I've ever published on Outspoken Beauty and if you have a daughter/niece/teenage girl in your life then you need to hear it.My guest is Jane Kenyon who is the founder of an utterly brilliant charity called Girls Out Loud. Jane has been working with teenage girls for over 20 years and her charity enables women in industry to become "big sisters" and mentor them through some of the trickiest years of school.Jane's insight into the current chellenges that girls are facing is deep and makes for scary listening. Social media, porn, self doubt and poor body image are only some of the problems that our teenagers are facing. Whilst many women are having positive and empowering conversations, it would seem like the opposite is happening for the younger generations.During the episode we talk about what is happening and how we might be able to make change and whilst this conversation doesn't make for easy listening, I know that it has the power to inspire change and action and we have the power to come together and make this happen.

It's Minipod time and in this episode:I'm calling time on the words "midlife crisis"Wondering out loud why on earth Grazia thought it was a good idea to feature Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty in an IWD seriesChatting through a makeup brand that get all their pigments from natureGetting excited about a dry body oil that smells of actual heavenTalking you through the cool perfume brand that everyone needs to know aboutAnd more.... (My perimenopausal brain has forgotten the rest :0)

Makeup artist extraordinaire and all round lovely lady Bryony Blake is back and in this episode she's answering lots of the makeup related questions that you've been asking via Instagram. From how to get a full coverage glowy base to affordable tubing mascaras to the perfect blushers for different skin tones, Bryony has so much wisdom to share and lots of recommendations too.We're also chatting about me making a bit of a fool of myself when I looked around a school this week, Bryony's upcoming trip of a lifetime and what she'll be taking onthe plane and find out what made us laugh so much that my microphone stopped working.

A three minute guide with product recommendations to help stop the dreaded eyeshadow creasing and keep everything where it should be. (Anyone else end up with displaced eyeshadow about an hour after applying it?)

*This Episode is in partnership with Avon *I'm so excited to be working with Avon again and can't wait for you to learn all about a brand new lipstick and serum-foundation from their amazing Makeup and Care range. (Think exceptional quality makeup with top skincare ingredients).During the episode I chat to their brilliant UK Director of Marketing, Hannah Lally, who explains how the Makeup and Care range came about and talks us through the amount of work and science that goes into making it just right. We also talk about makeup trends and why it's no longer enough for so many of us when out makeup doesn't deliver skin benefits.I then welcome the super talented makeup artist Tom Fraser who is a fellow Avon lover and explains why he loves their new Hydramatic Shine Lipsticks and the best way to apply them in comparison to their iconic matte version and also why the 3 in 1 Serum Foundation is such a standout product if you want a glow and just the right amount of coverage.Finally we get some honest insights from members of the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel who have been testing both products in a variety of situations.I've loved working on this episode and hope you enjoy the episode (and the products) as much as I have.

In this week's Minipod I'm giving you all the gossip about a stunning event held by the Fragrance Shop on Thursday and why I very nearly got caught doing something inappropriate to a perfume bottle.I'm also chatting through the products used at the most incredible makeover I had done at the Charlotte Tilbury counter at John Lewis Oxford Street. (I highly recommend this if you have an event to go to).There's also the period app that is totally revolutionising the ups and downs of my cycle, the nail polish that dries in 60 seconds and the minestrone soup recipe that I can't get enough of. (Here's the link)xx

This is another very short but important episode.I love the beauty industry for all the amazing things that it does but there are sides of it that still need to change and I'm incredibly irked by brands that engage in the behaviours that I mention in today's outspoken episode.How do you feel? Let me know on Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola or on our brilliant private Facebook Community.

In this special Outspoken Women Episode I welcome Emma Sayle, founder of the members only sex club Killing Kittens.Emma founded Killing Kittens in 2005 with the ambition of making a female-oriented and empowering sex club. To this day, men are invitation only and the women are firmly in charge. Emma has also created a huge online offering which includes sexual empowerment workshops and even a safe dating app. To put it bluntly, Emma is the Queen of women's pleasure and has created a space where we can explore our fantasies safely and with abandon.During the episode we chat about the sex parties that Emma holds and what actually happens at them. You may be surprised to know that many women go there to have their first sexual experiences with other women or even just to dance in their underwear with a group of friends.We also chat about relationships, keeping the flame alive and how to become more sexually empowered as women.This is such a fascinating episode and I found it totally inspiring and liberating.

Happy Monday Outspoken Beauties.This is probably the shortest podcast you'll ever hear but I thought it might be a nice little thing to do as a boost for you at the start of the week.Hope you like my recommendation.Nicola x

In this episode I welcome the brilliant journalist, author, founder of charity Mental Health Mates and mental health campaigner Bryony Gordon.Bryony has written a phenomenal book called "Mad Woman". It comes 10 years after her bestseller Mad Girl and explores a huge range of topics including binge eating, burnout, menopause, the pandemic and the very nature of mental illness. It is a book of self discovery and is ultimately hugely honest and leaves you feeling uplifted and with a whole new mindset about mental illness and life.During the episode Bryony is so open about many of the topics she explores in the book. She tells me about how the pandemic, a health scare, the effects of the perimenopause on her mental health and so much more have affected her and helped her become a wiser person who is finally more at peace with who she is. We also talk about fighting the patriachy, kitchen discos and what the world would be like if men experienced the menopause.Bryony has been so incredibly brave in the way that she has consistently opened up about her mental health to help others and it was such an honour to finally get to speak to her on Outspoken Beauty.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about the current personalised skincare offerings in the UK. I'll be talking through Skin and Me, And Begin, Klira, Get Harley, what they offer and how they differ.I'll also be chatting through what they have in common and how to make them work for you and your skin.I'll also tell you about the fragrance that everyone should own, a brilliant strengthening nail treatment, a scented patch to help you sleep, the perfect under eye shadow concealer and the makeup brushes that never fail me.Enjoy xx

Bryony's here for another roller coaster ride of an episode.Highlights this week include:An eyeshadow palette that has blown Bryony's mindThe Gaga lip gloss that stays shiny all dayThe TV that tells you offNicola's week of sofa surfing Breastfeeding strips The ups and downs of being a spermrelationships and lots more.Hope you have a good giggle and enjoy the beauty recommendations. xx

In this episode I'm chatting to entrepreneur and all round lovely woman Helen Snook.Last year I had a coffee with Helen's husband Chris and we ended up chatting for ages about how many of us eat a diet that leads to bad health but how difficult it is to actually get nutrition right....life is busy and it's so much easier to grab something quick and easy. Chris explained how he and his wife Helen were on a mission to make getting great nutrition and namely fibre easy and accessible and told me all about their brand Indi. I was fascinated and wanted to learn more. (I was also really excited because the brilliant Dr Federica Amati was one of the scientists working on the brand).A few months later I was lucky enough to also get to know Indi's co-founder and Chris' wife Helen. We instantly clicked and I knew I had to get her on the podcast. Like me she hates BS and definitely has issues with the current state of affairs in the world of supplements and nutrition.During the episode we chat about how we eat, how we can help our future health, why we need to be wary of certain supplements and how they are sold to us and how Helen and Chris have worked to make something truly extraordinary with trust at the forefront of what they do.If you're confused about supplements I hope this helps you to feel more informed.

It's time for my Minipod and this week I'm talking about :Memories of the Body Shop (this week we found out that it's going into administration).Scamp and Dude and what might happen when I go to their sample saleThe budget makeup brand that I adore and some products that I recommendThe beautiful smelling, comforting new range from Selena GomezAn affordable and stunning illuminating productand lots more.Let me know what you're loving. I'd love to hear from you on Instagram @outspokenbeautynicola.

I'm so excited about this, my second episode of Outspoken Women. In it I'm joined by the incredibly inspiring and kind entrepreneur, businesswoman, Dragon and TV personality, Sara Davies MBE.I first met Sara when she was giving the most uplifting and motivating talk to a room of 700 Avon representatives. She covered so many topics from how to make your business a success to how to juggle all the demands that life makes on us as women. As I scribbled copious notes I KNEW I had to get her on the podcast. Well the rest is history and she's here to I hope motivate you in the same way as she has done me. During the episode we chat about Sara's love for beauty and how her Mum started her skincare journey. Sara also tells us about how she navigates Mum guilt, how she built her hugely successful business Crafter's Companion from scratch and made it a success when she was a student, why we need to fake it til we make it and how we need to own the decisions that we make and never look back.What a woman and I feel SO lucky that I can share her wisdom with you here.Enjoy this Outspoken Beauties x

In this episode (and following lots of amazing feedback after her last podcast) my wonderfully outspoken and funny Mum Francesca comes back for another chat.This time we're talking HRT, Reformer Pilartes, the 10,000 step challenge, gynaecologists and there are of course some beauty recommendations in there too.If you're after some fun, warmth and good company then you'll love this episode with the woman who made me outspoken and sparked my passion for beauty.

This week's Minipod definitely isn't the one I had planned. During it I talk about what has happened in the last 24 hours and why I couldn't bring myself to get on the plane for the trip of a lifetime. I chat about some of the things I tried to put in place to get me on the plane but why ultimately I just couldn't do it.I also have some hair recommendations and the perfect pink lipstick to tell you about.xx

Oh my goodness I loved doing this episode with Bryony Blake. She honestly makes me laugh so much that I snort.This week we're talking:Bryony's message from a man who has taken a massive interest in her feet (and why part of her is secretly quite proud).Why Louis interviews me each night when the lights go offMy awful welcome home after time awayMy mission to get Charlotte Tilbury on the podcastGrumpiness towards Diary of a CEOCinema fun and SO much more.We have some fantastic beauty recommendations for you too, inlcuding the body cream with a scent that lasts all day and smells of summer and the best eyeliner. Bryony also has some good makeup artist tips for us.

*The episode is a must listen! *My guest is broadcaster, author and incredibly popular pro-ageing content creator, Suzi Grant.Suzi inspires her more than 100,000 Instagram followers with vivacious fashion (including her utterly fabulous headscarves), wonderful energy and her brilliant attitude to ageing. She truly found herself when she was 50 and changed her life. She has written about how she ran away to Brighton and created her perfect life. Now in her early 70's, she has been quoted as saying that old age is better than middle age and there's no doubt that she's living her best life.During the episode we talk about what gives Suzi energy and happiness and why we mustn't be scared of getting older. She shares her tips on makeup, exercise and diet plus why joining a member's club gives her joy and energy. There's so much more and I know that whatever age you are Suzi will inspire you.I love Suzi because she stands for all the older women who have so much to give and don't want to feel invisible. She proves that we can still be confident, relevant and utterly fabulous in our 70's plus and she also gives us hope and inspiration as we age. (It's no surprise that many of Suzi's Instagram followers are younger women who want to learn from her).You're going to love this positive, vibrant woman and as Suzi says, "It can only ger better".

In this week's minipod I'm talking about Ruby Wax's retreat (My Mum told me about it and I'm incredibly tempted to go on it)I also have so many great beauty recommendations, including brand new products from Ruby Hammer and Daniel Sandler, the three things I do to get my hair looking beautiful and shiny, bath salts to balance your hormones and the candle that never fails to make me smile.If you fancy joining the Flourish Project which I chat about during the episode, follow this link.(We have a great makeup workshop coming up).

Welcome to the first episode of my brilliant new series Outspoken Women.I have the most amazing set of guests lined up for you including Bryony Gordon, Sara Davies MBE and Emma Sayle (the founder of Killing Kittens).In today's episode I welcome the truly brilliant Natasha Devon MBE. Natasha is a writer, broadcaster & activist. She tours schools, universities and events throughout the world, delivering talks as well as conducting research on mental health, body image, gender and equality. She campaigns both on and offline to make the world a fairer place. She is also a founder of the Mental Health Media Charter, which scrutinises the way the media report on mental health and co-founded Where’s Your Head At, which aims to improve mental health in British work places.During the episode we talk about where she feels we're currently at in the UK when it comes to mental health, particularly that of our sons and daughters. Natasha gets outspoken about why we're in a mental health crisis, what needs to change and also how we can support our children in the right way when it comes to the likes of mobile phones, body image and more.I got SO much out of this interview and you need to listen to it whether you're a parent or you have a child in your life that matters to you.

I am so excited about today's episode. It's with the model, actress and founder of The Amber Jean Shop, Amber Jean Rowan.Amber discovered that she had alopecia totalis when she was a teenager and after exploring every medical avenue, her and her family decided that there was no solution and instead she turned to wigs. The only problem was that the whole experience of finding a wig felt depressing, very cold and clinical which was the last thing that she needed. During the episode you'll hear:How Amber felt when she was diagnosedHow alopecia affected her blossoming modelling career How Amber has taken the lacking experience of getting a wig into her own hands and created something really beautifulWhy she is treated differently depending on the kind of wig she's wearingHow she's come to terms with her hair lossand so much more.Amber is a fascinating and truly amazing woman and I loved every second of this interview. You can find her shop here and find her on Instagram @amberjeanrowan.

In this week's Minipod I'm chatting about the Margaret Dabbs medi-pedi that I treated myself to and why I'm upping my footcare game.I'm also talking about the debate around Pamela Anderson's upcoming skincare line, the most fabulous lip product, dodging laser beams at a Dermalogica event and the product that has made my skin silky soft and is effortless to use.

Bryony's back from Mexico and in this episode she's telling us about her adventures, including the woman who sold her a very funny looking facemask and a rather unfortunate incident with a turtle.We're also talking about Instagrammers on the beach, my trip to the gut clinic and why I'm a little bit worried that I'm not going to be allowed into Dubai.Beauty wise there's a beautiful lipstick, a home builder gel kit and an awesome and affordable cleanser that we both love.

This episode is in partnership with And Begin SkincareIn this episode we’re getting to know a brand new and very exciting skincare brand called And Begin. Last week I sat down and got to know their consultant dermatologist Dr Malvina Cunningham and the brand’s Chief Marketing Officer Sophie van Ettinger and it was a truly uplifting experience.During the episode we cover the very important difference between menopause and midlife skincare and why it’s so important to be able to offer a personalised service when it comes to our skin’s needs.We also talk about what our skin does and needs when we get to our 40’s and above, why people in this age group are more energised and relevant than ever and how And Begin are going to inspire this community even more and why it’s not about anti or pro ageing but it’s all about managing the age you’re actually at.This is a fun, feisty and informative episode about a skincare brand that I believe will help a great many women in a number of ways.

In this week's minipod I'm tallking about my experience of Reformer Pilates and also go into detail about what I do to keep my mental health in check when I feel my anxiety starting to bubble up. There are also some really lovely products to tell you about including a delicious and affordable lip mask, some great colour correcting under eye concealers, the mascara that let me down and the one that never does and I throw forward to Sunday's skincare episode.xx

In this truly enlightening episode I chat to Liz Sergeant who is a Registered Functional Nutritionist and Women's Health Specialist. Liz and I chat about how we can make ourselves feel more balanced and get ourselves sorted as we approach perimenopause.During the episode we cover:Gut health and how to work out if ours is in good orderBlood tests and how they can reveal more than meets the eyeWhy going on HRT too early isn't a good idea How to understand our cycles Empowering our daughters and making them feel positive about their periodsNutritionand so much more.Show notes:Here is the instagram post where Liz lists the functional lab ranges for blood tests:https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct08LK0oRzw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Liz woud also love to offer us access to her Women’s Health Assessments with a 20% discount. These private 1-to-1 sessions and the personalised blueprint are designed for women looking for professional insight into what’s going on from a health & hormones perspective, followed by priority next steps and bespoke supplements. You can find more information and sign up here: http://wellnourishedclub.com/wha using code BEAUTY20 at check out.And if you'd like more practical information about harmonising your hormones, her fabulous free ‘Feel Good Foundations of Happy Hormones’ Guide is for you. You can download it here http://wellnourishedclub.com/happyhormones/.

In this episode I chat to the woman hailed "The Brow Queen" by the likes of Harper's Bazaar and Cosmopolitan, the wonderful Shavata Singh.Brow bars are pretty commonplace these days but Shavata is the woman who first introduced them to the UK and with it revolutionised the beauty industry.During the episode we chat about the chance meeting that propelled her from a talented beautician to the woman that everybody from editors to top celebrities wanted to see to get their brows done.Shavata also tells me about the many things that having good brows can do for our faces, gives some great tips about brow shaping and also opens up about her story and how she has juggled building her business with being a single mum. (I love her attitude around mixing her career with motherhood).Shavata is a lovely and incredibly talented woman and it was a real pleasure to get to know her here after briefly interviewing (and instantly loving) her at an awards ceremony. Enjoy this episode Outspoken Beauties xx

It's Minipod time and this week I'm thinking (and getting very scared about) an imminent flight that I have to get on.I'm also talking about bras for big boobs, how to make gel manicures last longer, sorting out annoying itches and a new fragrance that is comforting yet will propel you into dreams of exotic holidays.If you love the podcast come and join the Outspoken Beauty Trialling Panel where you get to try products and give honest reviews on the podcast. If you fancy it email me nicola@outspokenbeauty.co.uk

It is such a pleasure to welcome Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan onto Outspoken Beauty.I was at an awards event a couple of months ago and was introduced to Niamh. Within minutes I knew that I had to get her onto the podcast. She was so warm, inspiring and filled with SO much passion for what she does.Niamh, an advanced skin therapist, cosmetic scientist and wellbeing advisor and Charlene, a makeup artist, influencer and social media expert joined forces in 2017 and launched a truly beautiful skincare brand called Ella and Jo. It has done incredibly well in Ireland and for good reason. The skincare is an utter pleasure to use and the messaging behind the brand is spot on - they really put women first and work to empower us and make us feel good.During the episode we chat about how they came together and made their fabulous brand....the challenges, the highs, the lows.....juggling a skincare brand and large families.....the difference between running the brand now compared to during the pandemic and why it is now time for the rest of the world to fall in love with Ella and Jo.This is such a great episode with two women who to my mind are doing so much right. In fact they sum up everything that is good about the beauty industry.

I'm doing a shorter episode today as we're still away in Bath. Business resumes as usual next week.During the podcast I chat about how unbelievably expensive things are at the moment and why if I'm spending my money I expect things to over deliver or at the very least do what they say they will. (There is something very wrong about brands that promise things that they then fail to deliver).I also talk about how my slipped disc has opened my eyes to a whole new world, why I wish I could go back in time and tell some of my exes exactly what I think of them with my 43 year old attitude and I also tell you my honest thoughts about the No 7 tubing mascara that I bought the other day. (I had high expectations).If you fancy a catch up about anything you've heard on the podcast you can message me on Insta @Outspokenbeautynicola. xx

In this week's minipod I'm doing a beauty focus. I start by chatting about some of the products that have helped sort my skin out after it became excessively oily and congested and highlight how a simple and minimal routine can sometimes be the best thing.I also mention some interesting new products that have already been released this year and also chat through a couple of makeup colour trends for 2024 (one of which you need to be careful with as used wrongly it can end up making you look a tad ill).Finally, I talk about the cheap and cheerful way to look after your cuticles and discuss a slightly pricier product will do wonders for your skin and save you money in the long run.If you're enjoying the podcast remember to rate it on Apple Podcasts and if you fancy a chat you can find me @outspokenbeautynicola on Instagram xx

It's the first week of 2024 and Bryony Blake and I are here to hopefully give you a few giggles, some friendly chat and some beauty tips to boot.During the episode we're talking about resolutions, orgasms, Harry Styles, X Factor, giving Leona Lewis a pedicure and much more.We hope that if you're feeling a bit post festive seasonish that this lifts your spirits :)Loads of loveNicola and Bryony xx

In this, my last little episode of the year I look back at the things that I've learnt in 2023.From insights into how to overcome anxiety to life as a woman who can no longer fit into all the clothes and has encountered chafing for the first time to lessons about people who don't always behave well and how to stand up for myself, this is deep in places and equally light-hearted and irreverent in others.Happy New Year Outspoken Beauties and here's to lots of outspoken adventures in 2024.

A lot of you have asked for a little catch up episode before the New Year so I have of course delivered.I'll be talking about the ups and downs of my new Apple Watch, why I'm loving Victoria Beckham's Satin Kajal in Bordeaux and am not getting on as well with a new Benefit Mascara that I purchased.I'll also be taking all the pressure out of your New Year's Eve and any resolutions that you have a feeling that you may struggle to keep.Oh and how could I forget?...I'm going to tell you about a brand new series coming for you in 2024.

Happy Christmas Eve Outspoken Beauties!This one is short and sweet as I'm sure you'll be busy today, but in it I'll be answering some of the festive dilemmas (beauty and otherwise) that you sent me via Instagram (@outspokenbeautynicola).Thanks again for all your amazing support this year and for being the best community of listeners ever!Loads of festive loveNicola xx

It's the final part of the Outspoken Beauty Podcast Awards 2023 and this week I'm talking about more of the products that have really stood out to me this year.In this episode I'll be talking about the fragrance that has had everyone asking me what I'm wearing, an affordable but utterly luxurious body oil, dreamy bath products, my hair tool of the year and lots more.I hope you've enjoyed my awards series and thanks SO much for being the most amazing community of listeners!Also on the subject of communities, just a reminder that we have a truly lovely one on our private Facebook Page. You can join it here

With mere days to go before Christmas, my guest in this episode is Francesca Bonn aka Outspoken Grandma aka my Mum!It was my Mum and incredibly glamorous Grandma Lily who inspired my love for beauty and ever since I was a teenager, my mum and I have got mutually excited about products and trends and have shared many a product over the years. I will also say that she has been one of my biggest influnecers when it comes to everything from bath products to makeup to fragrance. During the episode we have a festive catch up where we reminisce about the time she sat on the turkey and the magic she created for us as kids. We then talk about the beauty products that she's loved the most in 2023. (There are some great recommendations in there).I hope you enjoy this one as much as we loved recording it xx

She's one of the loveliest people in the beauty industry and it is SO nice to have her back on the podcast. In this episode I'm joined by makeup artist and wonderful human Rose Gallagher. Rose has compiled a list of her very favourite beauty products of 2023 and during the episode she's sharing them with us and telling us why she rates them so much. We're also chatting about Christmas plans and have a humorous moment that leads Rose to tell me about her fear of spiders.This is a gorgeous episode with a woman who radiates warmth and kindness and REALLY knows her stuff when it comes to beauty.Enjoy it Outspoken Beauties xx

It's my annual celebration of the year's best in beauty. In this week's Outspoken Beauty Podcast Awards I'm looking at the skincare category and what has really stood out to me in 2023.There are some old favourites in there and some new products and brands that are truly brilliant.Skincare is very personal but I think that a lot of these products are suitable for many skin types. Congratulations to all the winners:@avon_uk@mortarandmilk@dermalogicauk@skingeniusuk@weledauk@exuvianceuk@officialmedik8@clinisoothe@superdrug@biodermauk@bootsuk@skinandmehq@getharley@drsambunting@heliocareuk@ultravioletteau@larocheposay@emmahardieskincare@samfarmer_co@sttropeztan@paulaschoice

I'm so happy to have Bryony back this week.In this episode we're chatting about:Awkward social situations and why we both hate them The simple way to get treated like a Lord or Lady and always get the best table/seat/treatmentThe time Bryony served Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie in a department storeGlittery eye makeup and how to make it work for youBryony's exciting saucepan purchase (she's REALLY excited about it!)The time my dad got weed on when he was trying to do a good turn and of course our usual beauty recommendations.I hope you enjoy this episode....it certainly made us laugh a lot :0)

In this episode I welcome the utterly incredible campaigner and anti-bullying advocate Maia Gray.Maia who is known as @its_just_acne to her 142K Instagram followers, was so bullied about her skin when she was at school that she hid in the loos to eat her lunch. Things got more serious when her friends turned their backs on her and she even started receiving death threats.Since then Maia has found the confidence to show the world her acne online and helps thousands of people to know that we don't need perfect skin to be beautiful and accepted. Her photo of her skin's texture with foundation on has reached and inspired tens of thousands of people. This is a woman who is making a huge difference by finding the strength to bare her skin.During the episode Maia talks frankly about her experience of living with acne and how she has put her school days behind her and found the strength to show her skin to the world.This is a truly inspiring episode and I hope that it helps you whether you are struggling with confidence about your own skin/appearance or you know someone who is.

It's time for the first installment of my annual Outspoken Beauty Awards.In this episode I'm doing makeup and will be going through my top 23 makeup products of 2023. (This was my Mum's idea. If you listen closely you'll also be treated to a very special performance by her 😂)Here are all the winners of the makeup category. They are all great brands doing really exciting things:@lisaeldridgemakeup - Strawberry Shock Insanely Saturated Lip Colour and Elevated Glow Highlighter@kosas - Revealer Concealer and Brow Pop Nano@byterryofficial - Rose Lip Balm@1999.beauty - Lip and eyeliners@dcypher.me - Foundation and concealer@merit - Flush Balm and The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick@violette_fr - Bisou Balm@sculptedbyaimee - Shape and Set Brow Duo@lottielondon - Superfake Mascara@ciatelondon - Brazilian Glow Bronzing Serum and I Am Woman Eyeshadow Palette@drunkelephant - B Goldi Bright Drops@hourglasscosmetics - Phantom Volumising Glossy Balm@wearesannbeauty - Nourish and Tint Lip Serum@itcosmeticsuki - CC Nude Glow@elfcosmeticsuk - Halo Glow Liquid Filter@narsissist - Air Matte Blush@chanel.beauty - Waterproof Stylo Yeux@maybelline - Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lip Colour@victoriabeckhambeauty - Satin Kajal Liners

I have no doubt that you are going to absolutely love my guest this week. Genevieve Turley is JUST my type of woman...she's opinionated, funny and is also a blimmming good makeup artist.During the episode we have a frank chat about her views on anti-ageing (they're very similar to mine), the pressure on brides to look perfect and also how we worry about our kids, what they are hearing when they are away from us and how that's affecting them.We then get onto Gen's beauty habits and prepare yourself....she has some awesome recommendations, many of us I was buying as she was telling me about them...woops!Gen is a great guest and is well worth following on Instagram. You can find her @genevieveturleymua.

*This episode is in partnership with Absolute Collagen *In this episode I interview one of the most inspiring women I've ever met. Maxine Laceby founded Absolute Collagen in her early 50's and has gone on to build a company that is not only worth millions but helps a huge range of people both through the products and the community that Maxine has built.During the episode Maxine and I chat about the many changes that she had been going through when the idea for Absolute Collagen came to her. (There is a huge element of her taking back control of her life and going on a journey of self discovery).Maxine talks honestly about buildiing her business with the help of her wonderful daughters, how a recent diagnosis of ADHD has affected her, why her community of "Absoluters" means everything to her and why she always goes the extra mile to ensure that her products absolutely do what she says they do.This is a story of anything being possible at any age, of digging deep and discovering who you really are and of finding fulfullment as a woman, a mother and an entrepreneur.What a woman! I loved every minute of this interview and hope you get loads out of it.

In this week's minipod I'm giving you ideas for beauty gifts that are so thoughtful that they would bring a tear to the eye of the Grinch himself.I'm talking personalised products with an extra sprinkle of magic, beauty experiences you can do together, the gift of calm, the iconic skincare product that never fails to impress and something neon, retro and initialed.These are not just beauty gift ideas...these are Outspoken Beauty gift ideas!

In this episode I chat to the incredible Catherine Bossom. Catherine has been a top beauty buyer for the likes of Harrods and Space NK and now has a business called Yellow Flamingo where she helps guide new beauty brands so that they have the best chance of making it in this very busy market.During the episode we chat about beauty buying and what makes a really amazing product. Catherine shares her dos and don'ts when starting a brand and we also have an amazing chat about her top products (all of which sre fabulous).I loved chatting to Catherine. She is opinionated, knowledgable and a true Queen of beauty.

In this episode I chat to the amazing Donna Dia. Donna's career is in events and she has organised everything from an intimate party for Prince Philip to huge events for thousands of people.Recently Donna has pivotted her career and launched what will hopefully an annual two day beauty extravaganza called Beauty Beats which is the first ever luxury beauty event that is truly diverse. There will be loads of brands there and talks with industry great including Dija Ayodele, Candice Brathwaite and Charlotte Mensah (You can hear past episodes with all these amazing women by looking through past episodes of Outspoken Beauty.)During the episode we talk about Donna's mind-blowing career in events, why she felt that Beauty Beats was needed, how she shopped for beauty when she was younger , why MAC is incredible and what she loves most about beauty (including some of the products that she swears by).Donna is a brilliant entrepreneur who has started something that is truly needed. Enjoy getting to know her.

In this week's Minipod I talk about a wonderful aspect of Christmas and get outspoken about another side of it that really gets my goat. I also talk you through quite possibly the best bath oil in the world, jeans that never let me down, a magical Christmas candle that changes scent throughout the day, the eccentric beauty brand with excellent eye products and a fragrance that smells of sexy, warm skin and can be layered with all your other fragrances to make them sparkle!Enjoy amazing Outspoken Beauties xx

Bryony Blake is back and this episode is a lot of fun and covers a lot of ground.From my adventures as a VR Gorilla to a rather surprising chat about death to a debate about silver trousers and Nigel Farage's bottom, we have a lot to talk about.Bryony also has the best recommendation for a festive eye palette and talks us through how best to use it and I have the perfect SPF solution for those of you with really sensitive skin plus lots more beauty recommendations. Enjoy xx

This episode is in partnership with the amazing brand Skin DiligentI'm so excited to introduce you to Tule Park and her wonderful skincare brand Skin Diligent.I was first introduced to Tule at an event that Dr Sophie Shotter was hosting with her. I was instantly excited. Tule was so authentic and passionate and I couldn't get over how much research she was doing in the fields of epigenetics and the microbiome to ensure that her skincare is truly forward thinking and exceptional.Tule is about so much more than just skin. She's obsessed with overall health and everything she does is based on rigorous science and trials.Skin Diligent is definitely a brand worth exploring. It's huge in France and I imagine that once people start trying it elsewhere they will become hooked.Enjoy listening to Tule's story, views and getting to know this exceptional brand!

I've got SO many great things to tell you about in this episode including:The ultimate tinted lip balmThe perfect cosy candleA concealer that will totally match your skin shade and typeA towel that will dry your hair by 50% and is big enough to cover all hair typesA machine that makes personalised fragrances for £45The best snack for when you're flaggingA great liquid eyelinerA bath and body collection that smells woody and super expensiveEnjoy Outspoken Beauties xx

This episode is SO good! Sarah-Jane has been a beauty journalist and editor for most of her career and a brilliant one she is at that. She has a passion for beauty that still shines through after her years of being in the industry and I love how thorough she is about testing and researching the products that she recommends.During the episode we have a chat about her career in beauty and then get onto talking about the many products that she adores from skincare to makeup to fragrance. (Her recommendations are awesome!)Sarah Jane is a brilliant journalist and I love how she approaches beauty. You can find her on Instagram @beautyjournosj.

There is no one who can make skin glow like Jasmina Vico can. She's the skin health and laser expert that Jodie Comer, Margot Robbie, Sienna Miller and a whole lot of other celebrities go to and I totally get why. You see Jasmina doesn't just work on the skin's surface, she goes way deeper than that, imparting her incredible knowledge about health, nutrition, stress and biohacking.I've known Jasmina for a few years now and have had her on the podcast a number of times. I love our conversations because Jasmina is opinionated, outspoken and is an eternal knowledge seeker who isn't afraid to share what she's learnt.In this episode I recorded a chat I had with Jasmina while she treated my skin. I loved doing an interview like this as it felt really organic and the conversation went in so many interesting directions. Jasmina is truly a magician when it comes to skin and her instinct is always spot on. I hope you enjoy our intimate chat. If you fancy seeing her yourself then you can find all you need here. It looks like she's also launched some exciting skincare since our chat. I can't wait to trial it!Enjoy this episode with a true skin legend!

In this week's Minipod I talk about my amazing experience at the Chanel exhibition at the V and A. I also chat through my Mammogram and how I'm feeling about my colonoscopy.I have some lovely recommendations for you this week including a body scrub that warms up on contact with your skin (utter bliss), a perfume that is proven to make you feel energised and happy and the lipstick that never fails to make me feel incredible.xx

It's time for Bryony Blake's fortnightly episode and this week there's a lot to discuss including:The kid's party that ended up being like a scene from Motherland. (Reptiles were involved.)The awards ceremony that went a bit wrongSomething highly embarrassing that happened in a steam room in a super posh spaand lots more.We also share our 6 products of the week with Bryony recommending the perfect, suit-all lipstick for this time of year.Enjoy xx

In this episode I chat to the effervescent and award winning aesthetics doctor and GP, Dr Ahmed.If you've listened to the podcast for a while you'll know that I am a huge fan of pro and health ageing and that I take issue with the idea that we should feel like we need to turn back the clock to be accepted by society. Ageing is a gift and we must never be ashamed of it. However, I'm also aware that a lot of women just don't feel that the face that they see in the mirror matches the way that they feel inside and I totally get why many people seek treatments and procedures that will help their face to once again feel more "them". I think what I'm trying to say is that we should be able to do what we want without judgement, but as a society we need to work towards the total acceptance and celebration of ageing.During the episode Dr Ahmed and I cover so much ground. He talks me through loads of the invasive and non-invasive treatments that are on offer at the moment and which ones he likes (as well as the ones that aren't quite as effectve or are a bit too painful). He also talks about his favourite skincare, what to look out for when going for aesthetic treatments and why sometimes you just have to say no (some younger women come in asking to look like their filtered images on social media).I'm so impressed with Dr Ahmed for a number of reasons. He's an incredibly experienced doctor and when he deals with patients he is doing so with a great amount of responsibility. He also has a wicked sense of humour and always explores the psychological reasons for treatment, guiding people and saying no when he needs to.I not only warmed to Dr Ahmed but I found the entire conversation fascinating. I've never been tempted by the sorts of treatments that he offers but my goodness if I wanted one he'd be a person that I'd seek out.I hope you enjoy his wisdom and honesty!

I've got some really brilliant things to tell you about this week including an AI powered fragrance machine coming to London very soon, a damn sexy high street perfume to give you confidence and a strut in your step, an excellent cleanser, a hair tool that makes styling effortless and the perfect black shirt.I'll post a video of me demonstrating the hair tool on @outspokenbeautynicola so you can see how it worksEnjoy this week's Minipod Outspoken Beauties xx

In this episode it's just you and me (post trick or treating) having a bit of a life cach up.I'll update you on my anxiety and how I'm going about coming off some of my medication.I also talk about things I know I need to do but that I never seem to be able to stick to, an interesting chat with a gasterenterologist, the sex chair of doom, the haunting perfume that I just can't stop thinking about or wearing and why my skincare routine is currently a bit boring but that's OK.

I cannot tell you how much I loved recording this episode with Madeleine, who for those who don't know her is an amazing journalist, writer and podcast host with a passion for Elvis and who is at times to be seen wearing a dirndl at her equally fabulous father's traditional Austrian restaurant in London.Madeleine and I were recently at an event and we got onto the subject of our tattoos (Mads has considerably more than me) and why people seem to judge women of a certain age who get them. What ensued was a conversation about recaliming our bodies and identities that made me realise that we just HAD to record a podcast about it.So here you go...a conversation about why women at times are met with such judgement about their tattoos and how getting one (or 5) can be the perfect middle finger up at expectations and incredibly freeing.We also talk through Madeleine's fabulous tattoo choices and what they mean (there is a lot of symbolism and meaning going on here), how she talked her 70 something Mum into having one and why they are so important to her.Whether you have tattoos, are considering one or can't stand the idea, I think that you'll get loads of enjoyment out of this episode!

In this week's Minipod I'm talking about:The pelvic floor chair with a surprising side effectColonoscopiesA truly beautiful beauty advent calendar that is only £35The product that gives my hair guarenteed oomph The bath salts that are affordable but utterly brilliantAnd much more.Enjoy xx

The fabulous Bryony Blake is back and this week we're talking about the thing that Nicola said that shocked her therapist, the David Beckham documentary, Madonna's amazing concert and we have some really brilliant beauty buys to tell you about including what we think is the best beauty advent calendar of the year.Enjoy!

This Episode is in Partnership with Emma Hardie Skincare In this episode I catch up with the fabulous Jane Foulston, the co-founder and brand ambassador of the first skincare brand that I truly fell in love with - Emma Hardie.During the episode we chat about what makes the brand so special and how it has develped since I first fell in love with Moringa Balm many years ago.We also focus in on their brand new Vitamin C Radiance Gel Moisturiser which not only contains a really great form of vitamin C but is brimming with other incredible ingredients and science that take it to the next level. This is definitely a great insight for anyone who really likes to understand how their skincare is made and what takes it to the next level. Jane also delves into the extensive consumer trials that they have done and how that side of things works.I'm a huge fan of Jane who has worked with skin for decades (and has trained many aestheticians) and totally gets it. I think that this is a fascinating listen for Emma Hardie fans and for those of you who are yet to delve into this glorious brand as well as anyone who wants a bit of a behind the scenes look into how skincare brands actually operate.

In this week's minipod I'm talking about:The high street store with the most fabulous and affordable loafersThe ultimate "no makeup makeup" with lots of skincare benefitsAn outfit idea that is so comfy and looks fabulous in most scenariosTwo books that are on my radar, both VERY differentWhy my sister begged me to keep my knickers on (not quite as weird as it sounds)The wonderful hairbrush recommended by my hairdresser

When I first met Becki she was the beauty editor at Harper's Bazaar and I remember being struck by how down to earth and thoroughly lovely she was. She was also one of my favourite types of journalist, a woman with a thirst for knowledge and who asked all the right questions of the beauty brands at the various press events that we found ourselves at.Fast forward a few years and Becki is a leading cosmetic science journalist who has studied it at length. She gets skin, she certainly gets skincare and I trust her opinion on products and formulations implicitly.In this episode we talk about skincare, ingredients and brands that we trust. Becki cuts through the beauty BS, chats about what works and doesn't and also goes into the future of skincare. It's a fascinating listen for anyone who loves skincare and wants to be more mindful about what they invest in. It's also a great opportunity to find out about the exciting things that are happening in the industry.I love this woman and am so impressed with the way that she's followed her passion for cosmetic science and carved out a career in journalism that fascinates her!

Aesthetician extraordinaire Dr Sophie Shotter is back on the podcast and for good reason. She is one of the beauty industry greats with a huge knowledge of skin, hormones and health and a constant thirst to learn more and be at the forefront of the latest innovations.In this episode we're talking about the benefit of seeing a skin professional, the skincare brands that stand out because of the incredible research they're doing, hormones and how to get more insight into whether you're perimenopausal or not and we also talk about the latest treatments that Sophie is offering.The episode is brimming with amazing information and advice and is definitely for you if skincare is your thing.If you'd like to connect with Sophie then you can find her here

In this week's Minipod I'm pondering on the intimate interview with Sarah Jessica Parker I attended earlier this week. She inspired the entire audience and her conversation about ageing was so incredibly refreshing.I'm also talking about my obsession with having another tattoo now I've had one (apparently this is a thing!), the incredibly uplifting confidence workshop I did with some school children this week and I have the perfect fragrance to tell you about. It layers with everything but also stands on it's own as a thoroughly sexy skin scent with staying power. Oh and if you're after glossy, expensive looking hair, I have just the thing.Enjoy xx

The utterly fabulous Bryony Blake is back and this week we're talking about:My first hangover in ages and how it happenedWhat happened when Louis' friend walked in on me when I was getting dressedBryony's experience of soft playWhy we rarely talk about sex with long term partnersand much morePLUS we have some great beauty, book and fashion recommendations this week, including the most wonderful retinoid that will be available soon.Enjoy!

* This Episode is in Partnership with Forest Essentials *Beauty is no longer just about putting a product on your face and expecting miraculous results the next morning. We're so much more educated about the holistic approach we need to take, with what we put into our bodies being just as important as what we put on our skin. We also know that looking after our stress levels and moving our bodies also contribute greatly to the glow that we covet.It's for this reason that I'm so excited to do an episode with Forest Essentials. This incredible Indian brand has holistic beauty and the ancient traditions of Ayurverda running through everything that it does. When you buy beauty products from them you are also entering a world of health, wellbeing, truly stunning ingredients and guidance, with Ayurverda experts both instore and online to help you understand yourself and your health better and to help you choose the products that are right for you.During the episode I chat to the incredible Dr Shweta who is not only a surgeon but an expert in Ayurverdic Medicine. Dr Shweta explains how Ayurverda works and why it is so important to her to bring it to as many people as possible. She goes on to explain why she has chosen to work with Forest Essentials and what she loves about them.I also chat to Sanya Dawar who is the Head of Communications and Marketing at Forest Essentials. She's been there since the start and is so incredibly passionate about everything that they do and stand for. She gives a great insight into why the brand is so special.Finally, I talk about some of the products that I love and why I think that Forest Essentials is a truly magical brand that is worth a really good exploration.Their incredible Covent Garden Store can be found at 28 James Street, Covent Garden, London.Here's a link to their UK websiteand check them out on Insta too

In this week's episode I'm recounting a really important conversation I had with the amazing nutritionist and my friend Charlotte Faure Green about exercise and why we do it. If, like me, you're finding it hard to get motivated then I have a feeling that this will really help you.I'm also talking about the cosiest candle that I can't get enough of, a foolproof brow product and what I've spent my birthday money on.Finally, I've found the best ever white shirt in River Island. I chat about it during the episode but will ensure that I link to it on Instagram too (@outspokenbeautynicola).

In this week's episode of My Beauty Habits I'm chatting to interior designer, author, entrepreneur and former Dragon Kelly Hoppen CBE.During the episode we chat about Kelly's refreshing and inspiring attitude to ageing, why manicures matter, the fragrance that has everyone asking what she's wearing and why healthy eating and exercise are such a vital part of her life.Kelly is a total breath of fresh air and I found myself feeling invigorated and energised after our chat. Enjoy listening to what makes this brilliant woman tick!* During the episode I mention that Kelly designed George Michael's home. She in fact worked with Boy George.

In this episode I speak to mother, author, speaker and creator of Imaginarium TV, Marina Magdalena.Marina speaks openly about her children who are both neurodiverse and who she has decided to home school as the education system wasn't working for them.Following from her experience with her children, she wrote a book called called About Last Summer which stars a teenage girl with ADHD. This then led to her own diagnosis of ADHD.At a time when more and more women are discovering they have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, in a landscape where historically both girls and women have been chronically underdiagnosed, this episode is honest, enlightening and I hope will open up a conversation that will help lots of us.

In this week's Minipod I'm telling you all about my very last minute decision to have a tattoo to celebrate my 43rd birthday. How did the family react? What after care product has Sali Hughes told me to use and will I get more??!!I also have two AMAZING fragrance recommendations. One is from Zara, is made by one of the best perfumers in the world and is £25 (it smells like it's worth 5 times that) and the other is pricier but just so utterly addictive that I can't get it out of my head.I also have info about gold boots, ask you if Reformer Pilates really is as good as everyone seems to thing it is (better be for the price) and tell you about a French makeup brand that only uses dyes from plants.Enjoy my lovely Outspoken Beauties x

It's officially Bryony Blake time and this week we're talking about:An incredibly embarrassing thing that happened to me in a public place (warning: it's not for the faint-hearted)The fly that made the horror film even scarier.Why Bryony wasn't scared during one of the scariest theatre productions ever because the bad makeup was bugging herSnakes and why they should NEVER be worn as tiesSibling relationshipsand of COURSE we have lots of lovely beauty recommendations for you.Don't miss it Outspoken Beauties xx

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.