Pretty Smart Too

👧🏻 ABOUT THIS EPISODE She was sick in bed, scrolling her inbox, and almost deleted the email as spam. It was Cengage (Milady’s parent company) asking her to be a contributing author on the next aesthetics edition because they’d found her teaching skin of color on TikTok. Six months later, she was on a set in LA shooting facial demos for twelve hours straight. Armenthia Carr, ASCP’s 2026 Esthetician of the Year, joins Laura and Brandy from just over the bridge in North Little Rock. This one is for anyone who’s ever felt boxed in by their license. Armenthia has built a thousand-student teaching career, an online CE company, a textbook credit, and a corrective skin practice, all inside the scope of an esthetics license. Along the way, she gets honest about what schools still aren’t teaching about melanin-rich skin, why following a brand protocol without reading the skin in front of you is malpractice-adjacent, and why “AI won’t take your job, but somebody using AI will.” 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN How many careers actually live inside an esthetics license (teaching, CE sponsorship, textbook authorship, brand education, social media), and why the treatment table alone won’t hold up your back for thirty years Why a brand protocol is a starting point, not a prescription, and what happens when you put salicylic acid on dry, acneic skin because the sheet said to How to learn ingredients instead of product lines, so you can still serve a client when you run out of your favorite brand What the education gap around skin of color actually looks like from inside a classroom, and how to close it for yourself The “loud and right” rule: how to research a position (medical journals, dermatologists, podcasts) before you advocate for it, and how to own it publicly when you’re wrong How an AI dermoscope changes the client conversation from “trust me” to “look at this” ⏱️ CHAPTERS (00:00) Meet Armenthia Carr, Esthetician of the Year(04:48) Chicago Beauty School to Arkansas Homecoming(08:38) Becoming a Milady Textbook Author(13:17) Building IAMA Artistry Online(17:17) The Skin of Color Education Gap(20:09) Protocols Versus Reading the Skin(25:13) Mentorship: My Ceiling, Your Floor(32:27) Inside the SmartSKN AI Dermoscope(40:47) Using AI Without Losing Soul(43:26) Becoming the Woman You Needed(46:23) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK Before your next facial, pull the ingredient deck for every product on your shelf and learn what’s actually doing the work, not what the brand’s protocol card tells you to reach for. The day you run out of your go-to serum mid-week, ingredient knowledge is the only thing that lets you finish the appointment without wrecking someone’s barrier. 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK SmartSKN AI Dermoscope , a handheld device that images skin at 60x, reads moisture levels, and merges it all with a client questionnaire to return skin type, hydration, wrinkle depth, sensitivity, redness, and oil production. Armenthia has run 100+ scans and says it hasn’t missed yet. Head to the For Professionals tab, and you get a one-on-one onboarding with her when you buy. 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS Armenthia Carr , esthetician, educator, mentor, and advocate for skin of color; ASCP’s 2026 Esthetician of the Year IAMA Artistry , iamaartistry.com , Armenthia’s education company and the best way to reach her or book a class. Approved CE sponsor in Illinois for hair, skin, nails, hair braiding, and instructors. Classes in microneedling, dermaplaning, chemical peels, threading, sugaring, and more, one-on-one or group 📅 Book a facial with Armenthia at Ur Skin Therapist , 812 Reservoir Rd, Little Rock, AR. Corrective skin care: consultations, signature facials, chemical peels, microneedling, acne and teen treatments, waxing, threading, lashes, and brow lamination 📖 Booked, Paid & Unapologetic , available on Amazon , a step-by-step guide to the business side of a beauty career, for anyone tired of undercharging and overexplaining SmartSKN , smartskn.com , the AI dermoscope and custom Korean skincare line Armenthia serves as Director of Education for. Professional device info lives under the For Professionals tab Milady (Cengage), the standard aesthetics and cosmetology textbook. Armenthia is a contributing author on the upcoming aesthetics edition and shot the facial video content in LA; release expected late this year into next Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) , ascpskincare.com , where the Esthetician of the Year feature and full write-up are online in the magazine Talk about ingredients, not brands: salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide for acne on dry skin; hydroquinone used correctly; balancing and repairing the barrier before treating pigment ✨ HIGHLIGHTS “If you’re not willing to put in the work, I’m not the esthetician for you. You’d waste your money and both of our time. I can refer you to somebody else.” “My ceiling is your floor. Everything I know, I’m going to teach you, and it’s your job to grow with it.” “In order to be loud about something, you have to be loud and right, not loud and wrong.” “A brand can give you a protocol. But if they’re not physically looking at the skin, you can have acne and dry skin at the same time.” Social media: “You can be the best in the business, but if nobody knows about it, it doesn’t matter.” “AI is not going to take your job, but somebody using AI will.” “AI can’t touch people. AI can’t have that emotional connection with the client. Only you can do that.” “This is a trillion-dollar industry. There’s plenty to go around.” When teaching: “I want you to feel like a towel that’s been wrung out at the end of the day. This is your education, so ask me everything.” “That license opened more doors for me than my four-year degree ever did.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

👧🏻 ABOUT THIS EPISODE A teenager on a Young Democrats field trip sees the Rock the Vote bus parked in Little Rock and thinks: I want to be part of something bigger than me. Thirty-something years later, that same girl is a therapist, a mom of three, and, by her own description, “a very quiet and reserved person,” but now she's knocking on doors in Ward 2 in El Dorado, AR, running against an eighteen-year incumbent. Amy Smith is an underdog, and she knows it. She also isn’t a quitter. This one is about what it actually takes to raise your hand and show up for your community. Amy walks through what a city council member really does, why the flooded streets on the west side never seem to make the priority list, and the honest math of a town where over 50% of voters turn out for a presidential race and barely 15–18% show up for the local one that decides whether your street gets repaired. You’ll also get the practical stuff: what documents you need, where to go, and the date you have to beat in order to vote in this election. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN What a city council member actually does day-to-day: ordinances, the city budget, and being the voice for residents who aren’t being heard Why local elections decide more of your daily life than the big ones How Amy plans to represent a ward that holds some of El Dorado’s wealthiest and poorest households Exactly what you need to register to vote in Arkansas and the deadline to beat The best advice for any woman thinking about running: don’t wait until you know everything ⏱️ CHAPTERS: (00:00) Cold Open — The Rock the Vote Bus(01:13) Welcome, Amy Smith — Ward 2, El Dorado(01:35) Thirty Years of Friendship, Theater & Birthday Music Videos(03:35) What Does a City Council Member Actually Do?(03:54) One Ward, Two Very Different Realities(04:50) Short West 2nd Street & a 23% Poverty Rate(05:52) Food Insecurity, No Grocery Stores, No Bus(06:54) Why She’s Running(07:28) The Streets That Flood & Never Get Fixed(08:16) What It Means to Run as a Woman(10:09) The Issues: Housing, Privacy & Drainage(10:53) Her Campaign Message(12:22) Underdog vs. an 18-Year Incumbent(13:48) What Female Empowerment Means to Amy(14:43) Advice for Women Who Want to Run(16:31) The Turnout Gap: 50% vs. 18%(17:07) How to Register — Documents, Places & Dates(18:27) Bill Clinton, Little Rock & the Spark(19:19) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK: Register to vote in Arkansas — Arkansas Secretary of State: Voter Registration Information . 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS: Amy S. Smith for El Dorado City Council, Ward 2 — therapist, mom to May, Owen and Reagan, and a first-time candidate running on inclusivity, infrastructure, affordable housing, and residents’ right to privacy Register to vote in Arkansas — Arkansas Secretary of State: Voter Registration Information . You can also register at your county clerk’s office, the library, or the DMV Check your registration status — Arkansas VoterView 📅 Register by Monday, October 5th — Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd. ( 2026 election dates ) Rock the Vote — the bus in Little Rock that started all of this for a teenage Amy at a Bill Clinton rally Michelle Obama — “There’s no limit to what we as women can accomplish” Madonna, “Express Yourself” — “Express yourself, don’t repress yourself,” Amy’s 90s-kid definition of empowerment Lend Me a Tenor — the last show Laura and Amy did on stage together in El Dorado at South Arkansas Arts Center ✨ HIGHLIGHTS: “Government should work for the people and by the people, not just for some people, by some people.” “One thing that I’ve learned about myself is that I’m not a quitter, even when the odds are against me.” “I’m usually a very quiet and reserved person, but this is a very important calling.” “Don’t wait until the timing’s perfect. Don’t wait until you think you know everything. Go out there, and you can learn as you go.” “They feel like their area is being neglected. I’m running to help them feel more included and heard.” “I hope the next generation, like my daughters, sees me being brave, taking risks, and is inspired to do the same.” “Not voting is a vote against yourself.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US: 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE: Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

👧🏻 ABOUT THIS EPISODE: Laura is standing in her bathroom, hair up, holding a nearly empty serum bottle she has cut open with scissors so she can scrape the last two days out of it with a cleaned makeup brush. “I’m only human after all.” That is the exact energy of this one lol. Twenty years of esthetician credentials delivered while yelling SCRUB, SCRUB, SCRUB and telling you to “exfoliate your dang chest already, honey.” You’ll walk away with her full morning routine in order: ZO Exfoliating Cleanser, ZO Exfoliating Polish, ZO Oil Control Pads or ZO Complexion Renewal Pads or MediCube Zero Pore Pad , ZO Exfoliation Accelerator, ZO Illuminating AOX Serum, ZO Intense Eye Cream, Mama Sol SPF …plus the why behind each step, and the second half of the episode Laura gets honest about turning 50 soon, losing over 52 pounds since January 3rd, and the small daily changes that actually moved the needle. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: The #1 mistake clients make is never getting their skin truly clean, and how adding a 60-second-twice double cleanse fixes it. Remember your treatment products do not penetrate well enough into dirty skin. How Laura exfoliates every single day without wrecking her moisture barrier (and what makes that possible) The one product almost nobody talks about that exfoliates under your makeup all day without lifting it Which exfoliating pads match your skin type and the $21 drugstore-priced set that genuinely holds up The SPF rules that matter more than the brand, including the spot everyone forgets The unglamorous habit changes behind a 52-pound loss: food prep, minerals, spring water, and cutting alcohol ⏱️ CHAPTERS: (00:00) Welcome — Laura’s Turn in the Bathroom(00:47) The Cleanser She Won’t Live Without + The #1 Mistake(03:09) The Double Cleanse: 60 Seconds, Twice (03:30) Yes, She Exfoliates Every Single Day(07:05) Renewal Pads vs. Exfoliating Pads + The $21 Find(09:18) Exfoliation Accelerator: The Product Nobody Talks About(13:02) AOX Serum & The “Little Murderers”(14:45) Eye Cream, Weak Fingers & Happy Jobs(17:20) SPF — Use The One You’ll Actually Wear(20:40) Turning 50 & Losing 52 Pounds Since January 3rd(24:18) Hydration, Minerals & Ditching Table Salt(25:43) Why She Stopped Drinking (and the Red Wine Myth)(26:45) Clean Beauty, Lead Testing & “H2O Is A Chemical”(29:33) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK: Cleanse for a full 60 seconds, rinse, then do it again for another 60. Two minutes total, morning and night. Nearly every “my products aren’t working” problem starts with skin that was never actually clean. 🔗 RESOURCES / MENTIONS & LINKS TO PURCHASE: ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser — Laura’s every-single-day cleanser, ideal for normal to oily skin ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish — crushed magnesium crystals; 20 years in, and she hasn’t found better ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads & Exfoliating Polish Pads — renewal for sensitive/dry, exfoliating for tougher, oilier skin MediCube Zero Pore Pads — Laura’s loving these! ZO Skin Health Exfoliation Accelerator — the daytime, under-makeup exfoliant she says has no equal on the market ZO Skin Health Illuminating AOX Serum — vitamins A, C and E fighting free radicals, with light-reflecting illuminators Mama Sol SPF — zinc oxide, lavender, glass bottle; plus their eye SPF and lip SPF. Doesn’t sting through hot yoga or a sweaty Northwest Arkansas bike ride Lucy Lindsey — Laura’s sister and the source of the “start where the pigment is” application tip. Beautiful products, honestly underpriced Ve Neill Brushes — the makeup brush that rescued the last drop of AOX BareMinerals , Jane Iredale & MakeUp Forever — the powders and contour stick that finish the look Baja Mineral Sea Salt — 90 plus essential minerals intact, no additives; Laura’s swap for stripped-down table salt ✨ HIGHLIGHTS: “It’s killing them. It’s little murderers. It’s going deep and it’s fighting .. it’s fighting really hard for you.” “You exfoliate your skin every day? Are you crazy? Is your moisture barrier wrecked? No. It’s not.” “It’s a happy finger with a happy job.” “I don’t work for them anymore. I pay full price.” “H2O is a chemical. I’m doing the best I can.” “I’m proud of you, whoever you are out there listening. It’s not easy to get started, but you gotta get started.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US: 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE: Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

🙉 ABOUT THIS EPISODE: “Brandy, who’s gonna do all that every morning?” If you’ve ever looked at a seven-step routine and thought exactly that, this one’s for you. We’re live from the bathroom, freshly showered, walking you through the real, unfiltered morning skincare lineup an oily girl swears by. From why the scalp is skin too, to the one product that makes every other product a waste of money if you skip it. By the end, you’ll have a step-by-step order of operations you can actually follow, permission to stop matching your brands, and the pro tips (bulk buy, break it down, protect your neck) that separate good skin from great skin. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why oily skin may need a daily hair wash and how your scalp and hairline breakouts are connected The correct order of operations: cleanse, exfoliate, serum, eye cream, brow serum, hydrate, SPF Why you don’t have to match your brands The aesthetician bulk-buy trick: purchase the back-bar size and break it down at home for better value Why SPF is the single most important step and how the sun can undo everything else ⏱️ CHAPTERS: (00:00) Good Morning from the Bathroom(00:28) Why Wash Your Hair Every Day (Your Scalp Is Skin!)(01:45) In the Shower: Cleanse & Exfoliate(03:30) It’s Okay to Mix & Match Brands(04:15) Step 3 — Vitamin C Serum(06:00) Step 4 — Eye Cream(07:15) Step 5 — Brow Boosting Serum(08:10) Step 6 — Hydration for Oily Skin(09:30) Step 7 — The Most Important Step: SPF(11:30) Don’t Forget Your Lips (13:00) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK: Buy your favorite cleanser in the professional back-bar size and pour it into smaller bottles for every shower in your house. You’ll get far better value, and there’s one in reach every single day. Your scalp is skin too, so treat it like it. ✨ HIGHLIGHTS: “Your scalp is skin just like on your face, and it must be cleansed, it must be exfoliated.” “You can do all these other things and go sit in the sun all day, and none of that’s gonna work.” “Who wants to have a saggy neck when you have beautiful skin on your face?” For more information about the products Brandy uses, make an appointment with Brandy at Exhale Med Spa in Little Rock, AR. 💥 CONNECT WITH US: 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE: Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

👧🏻 ABOUT THIS EPISODE: Reunited in the same state at last! Laura is talking quietly in an echoey, furniture-free new Arkansas house while Brandy juggles a brand-new gig at Exhale Med Spa alongside running The Spa at Rockwater. The girls turn the mic toward their thirteen-year-old selves. What advice would they give little Laura and little Brandy? The answers get real fast: passivity, people-pleasing, fear, and the myth that hard work has to mean running yourself into the ground. You’ll walk away with a warm, funny, and surprisingly moving set of life lessons about trusting your gut, celebrating your own wins, saying what you actually mean, and learning that rest is something you’ve earned and not something you have to justify. And in true PST fashion, the most important beauty lesson of the episode has nothing to do with skincare at all. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why saying what you mean beats going with the flow, and how a lifetime of being “passive” quietly costs you How to trust your gut about people the first time they show you who they are Why sensitivity is emotional intelligence, not weakness The “work hard, play hard” reframe: you can hustle AND actually rest without guilt How connection (not correction) is what really reaches a nervous teenager in your chair ⏱️ CHAPTERS: (00:00) Catching Up: Brandy’s New Med Spa Gig & Laura’s Arkansas Move(07:05) Welcome Back to Pretty Smart Too(07:58) Life Lessons We Learned the Hard Way(13:28) Advice to Our 13-Year-Old Selves(19:23) Myth vs. Reality: Success, Confidence & Sensitivity(24:24) The Teen Client & Why Connection Beats Correction(26:32) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK: Put your rest on the calendar the same way you put in your work. Block the pool day, book the massage, and take the afternoon. You already earned it; you don’t have to justify it. ✨ HIGHLIGHTS: “Believe who people are the first time they show you. Trust your gut instinct.” “You can work hard, and you can relax. You worked hard. It’s time to play hard.” “Being a sensitive person means you’re empathetic. That does not mean you are weak.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US: 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE: Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

🏴‍☠️ ABOUT THIS EPISODE The claws are out, and so is everything else. We open on the day a well-known client stripped down completely naked ON TOP of the covers (”it’s too hot, girl!”) — the moment that broke Brandy’s nerves for good and changed how she does every facial since. From there, we get honest about all the things we wish we could tell our clients without being mean: there’s no magic cream, your sun damage didn’t happen overnight, and yes, sometimes the right answer is to go eat the damn ice cream. You’ll walk away knowing why skincare takes time, why your 17-step routine might be the thing wrecking your skin, and how to spot the hype (looking at you, beef tallow and TikTok) from what actually works. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why real skincare results take time - and why there’s no one magic cream How a 17-step routine can strip your barrier and leave you red, itchy, and dry (start simple: cleanser, exfoliation, moisturizer, & SPF) Why you shouldn’t marry one brand - how to research ingredients and mix & match with the science behind it How to read the person on your table (hot vs. cold, correction vs. relaxation) instead of forcing everyone into a box The truth about beef tallow, TikTok influencers, and always checking the source before you buy ⏱️ CHAPTERS (00:00) Tits on the Table(01:07) Understanding Client Needs: Eat Ice Cream & Believe Your Esthetician(13:40) Confessions from the Treatment Room: Naked Ladies, Confused Men & Runny Noses(28:40) Beauty Trends: Beef Tallow, TikTok & Too Much OIL(33:05) Aging & Letting Go of Other People’s Opinions(36:55) Wrap & Farewell 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK : When starting a new skincare client on a skincare routine, keep it simple and stay consistent. A great cleanser, regular exfoliation, moisturizer, and SPF will take you further than a 17-step routine will. Start simple and make sure they get their makeup off before bed and wear their SPF every single day. Estheticians: ask your client if they run hot or cold before you wrap them in heat. Customizing beats clockwork every time! ✨ HIGHLIGHTS “Estheticians don’t make the skin rules. We didn’t create skin. God created skin. You have to do the work.” “Estheticians are not stinking vending machines. Talk to people, listen, and customize.” “This lady’s got her tits out on the table ready for a facial - and that was the day everything Brandy thought she knew about skincare changed.” 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK The perfect spa girl mug ☕️ Shop Pretty Smart Too at the Walmart Storefront for our top aesthetic room picks, elevated necessities for your lifestyle, home, kids, and fun luxuries at an affordable price point. (Walmart Creators) Every esthetician’s real MVP this episode: a box of Kleenex and a good pair of scrubs. Steam + eucalyptus = a runny nose mid-massage. IYKYK. 💦 🔗 SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT 📆 Book an Appointment with Laura : https://laurabarrowmua.com/ 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy : https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/ 💥 CONNECT WITH US 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 ABOUT THIS EPISODE We’re in the same room FINALLY! To kick off Brandy’s birthday (and a whole new trip around the sun), we grabbed a stack of magazines, our Mod Podge , and our favorite Walmart glue and made vision boards live on the show. What started as a craft session turned into a very real conversation about the goals we actually want but are scared to admit. You’ll walk away with a simple five-question framework to build your own vision board, plus some honest reminders about rest, self-doubt, and why the people you surround yourself with matter more than you think. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN A 5-question prompt list to guide your own vision board (built around beauty, business & balance) Why “the busier I am, the more productive I am,” and how to still protect your rest before your body forces it The 10-minute-a-day exercise trick (working to the point of breathlessness) we heard on the Mel Robbins Podcast How to quiet imposter syndrome, including the mirror high-five that actually flips the switch in your brain Why women need peace before almost anything else on the to-do list How to build a “goodness shield” and surround yourself with people who lift you up ⏱️ CHAPTERS (00:00) Finally Together …Brandy’s Birthday Kickoff (02:00) Why We’re Doing Vision Boards (Beauty, Business & Balance) (03:30) Q1: What Would Make This Year Unforgettable? (07:00) Q2: What Are You Scared to Put on Your Board? (+ the 10-Min Workout) (11:30) Q3: What Goal Feels Impossible? (Millionaire Mindset & Imposter Syndrome) (17:00) Q4: What Do You Want More Of? (20:00) Q5: What Do You Want Less Of? (22:29) Wrap & Vision Board Reveal Coming Soon 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK Make a vision board, but make it a conversation. Grab old magazines, a world atlas, and your favorite glue, then answer five questions out loud: What would make this year unforgettable? What are you scared to put on it? What feels impossible? What do you want more of? Less of? The goals you say out loud are the ones you start moving toward. 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK “Too Pretty to Work” mug (Walmart), the cutest little vision-board-session prop, complete with bows. Fair warning: fill it after the recording starts. 💦 Shop Pretty Smart Too Walmart Storefront for all of our top picks! Elevated necessities and fun luxuries at an affordable price point. 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS The Mel Robbins Podcast - the episode (featuring Dr. Patrick) on exercising 10 minutes a day to breathlessness, endorphins vs. dynorphins, and high-fiving yourself in the mirror Mama Sol - inspired us to finally do vision boards Rockwater Resort (Little Rock, AR) - Brandy’s new home base; the community, the gym, and the Vices coffee truck (get the hot honey) Syndeo Hydrofacial Machine - FOR SALE - barely used, great condition. Estheticians, DM us for an offer (yes, we know about the licensing fee - talk to us!) 📆 Book an Appointment with Laura : https://laurabarrowmua.com/ 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy : https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/ ✨ HIGHLIGHTS “You have to rest, or your body will force you to rest the wrong way.” “It’s okay to have downtime, but the busier I am, the more productive I am.” “We’re not gonna let self-doubt give us imposter syndrome no more, because we ARE successful.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube - and leave us a review! It helps more people find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 ABOUT THIS EPISODE Laura and Brandy sit down with Arielle Moody, co-founder of Mama Sol, the non-toxic, mineral sunscreen brand making waves at Bloomingdale’s, Access Hollywood, QVC, the Today Show, and over 100 luxury spas and resorts, including Montage, Canyon Ranch, Four Seasons, and Fairmont. If you’ve ever skipped sunscreen because it stings your eyes, turns your skin white, or just feels like a chore, this episode is the fix. Arielle breaks down exactly what makes Mama Sol different (hint: it took five years to formulate), why the eyelids and lips are the most overlooked places for sun protection, and how a former cosmetics exec turned her own pregnancy skincare frustration into a brand sold in Nordstrom-level retail. Plus, a genuinely great conversation about manifestation, mindset, and the books and apps that help her stay grounded while running a fast-growing company. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why most mineral sunscreens turn white or feel heavy, and what Mama Sol did differently to solve it The real reason chemical sunscreens sting your eyes, and why 100% mineral formulas are better for sensitive skin, pregnancy, and nursing What a PA rating is and why it matters just as much as your SPF number The two places almost everyone forgets to apply sunscreen, and why that matters for skin cancer risk Why owning your own product formulas (instead of private-labeling) matters if you ever want to sell your business How daily manifestation, visualization, and breathwork have shaped Arielle’s path as a founder ⏱️ CHAPTERS 02:34 Introducing Arielle Moody and Mama Soul 02:37 Arielle’s Journey to Creating Mama Soul 06:35 The Unique Features of Mama Soul Sunscreen 09:43 Innovative Sunscreen Solutions 12:41 Ingredient Transparency and Safety 17:19 The Importance of Female Empowerment 18:08 Manifestation and Positive Thinking 24:00 Tools for Personal Growth and Healing 26:45 Building Connections and Community 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK If you’re skipping sunscreen because it stings your eyes or leaves you with raccoon eyes by the end of the day, the problem isn’t sunscreen … it’s YOUR sunscreen. Switch to a 100% mineral formula and look for SPF 30+ with a PA rating of 4+ for real UVA protection. And don’t forget your eyelids and lips, as they’re the two most commonly missed (and most commonly sun-damaged) spots on the face. 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK Mama Sol Face Brella SPF 30 (Untinted) — 100% mineral, zinc oxide-based sunscreen that blends seamlessly with no white cast and won’t sting the eyes. [Buy Here!] Mama Sol Eyebrella — SPF + concealer + eye treatment in one. Designed to go directly on the eyelid, where up to 10% of skin cancers are found. [Buy Here!] Mama Sol Lip Brella — 100% mineral tinted lip oil, SPF 20, UVA/UVB protection with zero sunscreen taste or stickiness. [Buy Here!] Use code PRETTYSMARTTOO15 for a discount! 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS Mama Sol — Non-toxic, mineral sun protection brand sold in 100+ luxury spas and resorts, including: Four Seasons, Fairmont, and Montage. Shop at shopmamasoul.com — use code PRETTYSMARTTOO15 for a discount. [Shop Mama Sol!] Infinite Possibilities by Mike Dooley — The book Arielle credits with kickstarting her manifestation journey. Buy Here! Journey of Souls — A book on past-life hypnotherapy research that came up in conversation, mentioned as a fascinating listen or read. Buy Here! Joe Dispenza guided meditations — Arielle’s go-to for manifestation and visualization work. Buy Here! Pause App by Samantha Skelly — A breathwork app with sessions ranging from 5 to 45 minutes. Buy Here! Wholesale inquiries — Estheticians and spa owners interested in carrying Mama Sol can email Arielle directly for pricing, samples, and staff training. Minimum order is 12 units per SKU, with flexibility for smaller spas. Get in Touch! 📆 Book an Appointment with Laura ! 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy ! 👤 ABOUT OUR GUEST Arielle Moody is the co-founder of Mama Sol, a non-toxic, 100% mineral sun protection brand she began developing in 2017 after struggling to find a sunscreen that felt good to wear during her own pregnancy. Mama Sol was co-founded with her mother, a world-renowned ophthalmologist and eye surgeon, and is now sold at Bloomingdale’s and over 100 luxury spas and resorts worldwide, with recent features on QVC and the Today Show. Find Mama Sol at shopmamasol.com and don’t forget your discount code: PRETTYSMARTTOO15 ✨ HIGHLIGHTS “If sunscreen and a spa day had a baby.” — Mama Sol’s brand tagline “If you don’t own your own formulas, you wouldn’t really have much to sell down the road.” “Every time something doesn’t go your way, think of three things that are good because it went the way it did.” “If things are flowing in naturally, that means you are aligned, that you’re on the right path.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube and leave us a review! It helps more beauty pros and business friends find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 ABOUT THIS EPISODE Ana Lauren Hoare is an actress, model, screenwriter, and author, as well as Laura’s friend and makeup client. This conversation goes everywhere in the best way. From rowing for Oxford to appearing on early reality TV, from living in England for 20 years to coming home to California and reinventing herself in her 40s, Ana is a walking case study of what it takes to keep saying yes to life. She’s got a new short film hitting festivals ( Selfish Marie , for which Laura was the key makeup artist), a book that just came out ( Radiant AF: A Guide to Midlife Confidence and Wellness ), and a whole philosophy about why women should stop shrinking and start taking up space. This one is for every woman who has ever felt like her best years were behind her… they are not! 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why Ana chose Oxford over the Olympics and what elite rowing taught her about discipline and confidence The honest truth about acting, self-consciousness, and why the most compelling performers have zero Fs to give How Ana got back in front of the camera in her 40s and why she’s using modeling to flip the narrative on aging What Radiant AF is really about and Ana’s 4-month framework for training yourself to be confident Why radical acceptance of your body at every age isn’t a passive thing, it’s an active practice What it’s really like on a film set: 17-hour days, swollen feet, Roberto Cavalli gowns, and a memorable moment with Catherine O’Hara ⏱️ CHAPTERS (00:00) Brandy and Laura Chit Chat — Mother’s Day Recap & Max’s Short Film (02:07) Welcome Ana Lauren to the Conversation (05:51) Ana’s Journey: From California to England & Back (11:00) Health, Lifestyle & Honoring Recovery at Every Age (11:01) Education: Berkeley, Oxford & a Master’s in Art History (13:53) Navigating the Entertainment Industry… Reading the Room & Building the Right Team (16:47) Theatre, Reality TV & the Early Days of Blind Date (22:58) Theatre Dreams, Film Opportunities & the Selfish Marie Set (30:11) Memorable Experiences on Set: 17 Hours, Golden Time & Catherine O’Hara (34:14) Embracing Aging & Authenticity… Why Ana Doesn’t Chase Youth (34:15) Confidence and Self-Acceptance in the Industry (38:17) The Art of Acting: Presence, Self-Awareness & Disappearing Into Character (46:50) Radiant AF - Ana’s Book on Midlife Confidence & Wellness (50:04) Radical Acceptance and Body Positivity (52:01) Creating Selfish Marie - The Journey of the Short Film (59:26) The Audio Sugar Podcast - A Fun Collaboration (01:01:35) Finding Confidence and Grace in Life - Ana’s Final Advice 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK “Find your confidence. Find your reason to be confident. If it’s for your children or for yourself. That will be your engine for your success. Have grace with yourself. Know it will be a messy process no matter what, but you will get to your goals. Have confidence and grace with yourself.” - Ana Lauren 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK Radiant AF: Confidence, Courage, and the Art of Living Out Loud After 40 by Ana Lauren Hoare https://a.co/d/0iOGdi1J “Why do I still doubt myself when I’ve already lived this much life?” Ana’s answer to women is disarming and refreshing: confidence is not something you are born with. It is something you practice. Not in theory, but in real life. In seasons. In four-month sprints of discipline, gratitude, and support from other women learning how to come back to themselves. (Yes, cheering on other women is part of the confidence formula.) Drawing on her own journey as a model, actress, and filmmaker, Ana explores what it means to reclaim presence at any age, in any body, and with any past. She began her career in Los Angeles at 21, stepped away to build a life outside the industry, and returned in her mid-40s to modeling, acting, and creative work through film. She calls this the art of living. A way of moving through life that blends vulnerability, discipline, gratitude, and self-ownership. This is not a perfection book. It is a real-life book for women navigating careers, relationships, hormones, reinvention, and everything in between. In this book, you will learn how to: - rebuild self-trust - regain clarity in identity - develop a daily confidence structure - break cycles of self-doubt 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS Ana Lauren — Actress, model, screenwriter & author. Follow her work and the Selfish Marie festival journey. Instagram Link Selfish Marie (short film) — Written, produced, and starring Ana Lauren. Currently in post-production and heading to film festivals. www.babyramproductions.com The Audio Sugar Podcast — Ana’s podcast with her co-host, a former Playgirl centerfold and photographer. Fun, a little ribald, very entertaining. Available on YouTube and podcast platforms. https://www.youtube.com/@AudioSugarpodcast Meisner Technique — The acting conservatory training Ana completed that she credits with making her a better listener and human being. 📆 Book an Appointment with Laura : https://laurabarrowmua.com/ 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy : https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/ 👤 ABOUT OUR GUEST Ana Lauren Hoare is an actress, model, screenwriter, and author based in Laguna Beach, California. She studied Art History at UC Berkeley and completed a Master’s degree at Oxford, where she also trained as a pre-elite rower. After 20 years in England, she returned to California and reinvented herself in her 40s — completing Meisner conservatory training, writing and starring in the short film Selfish Marie , and finishing her book Radiant AF: A Guide to Midlife Confidence and Wellness . She also co-hosts the Audio Sugar Podcast. Follow her on Instagram ✨ HIGHLIGHTS “I’m not chasing youth. I don’t want to be 20-year-old me.” “You cannot be self-conscious in front of a camera. Acting is being present in the moment — if you’re worried about what you look like, you’re going to ruin the shot.” “Confidence isn’t inborn. I had to train myself.” “Let life surprise you. Acting was never in the cards for me, but in the past two years, I have finished my Meisner conservatory training.” “It’s an endurance sport no matter what you do. Mastery takes a long time.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube — and leave us a review! It helps more beauty pros and business babes find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you confidence, love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 ABOUT THIS EPISODE Laura’s very first guest on Season 2 is someone she’s been learning from since she was born, her sister, Lucy Lindsey. Lucy is a CIDESCO-licensed aesthetician with nearly 50 years in the beauty industry, a multi-location spa empire she built with her late husband in Lubbock, Texas, and her own professional skincare line built on one principle: correction over fluff. This one goes deep. They talk injectables and why Lucy doesn't get them, why so many clients are wasting money on the wrong products in the wrong order, what it really takes to build a beauty business that lasts, and the one product Lucy takes on every vacation. If you’ve ever felt like you were guessing at your skincare routine, this episode is for you. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN * Why Lucy believes most clients are wasting money on skincare and the simple fix that changes everything * The truth about injectables: when they help, when they hurt, and why Lucy chooses to skip them personally * How Lucy and Don grew to a full medical day spa and the mindset that made it possible * Why your skin products need to start at the hairline (not the center of your face) and the science behind it * How to know if a skincare product is truly corrective vs. just beautiful packaging * The one product Lucy never travels without and why Vitamin C is your skin’s best friend ⏱️ CHAPTERS (00:27) Introducing Lucy — Nearly 50 Years in the Beauty Industry (01:07) Injectables: Where They Help, Where They Hurt, and Lucy's Personal Choice (04:45) Why So Many Clients Are Wasting Money on Skincare (And How to Fix It) (06:10) Sisters in Beauty — How Lucy Inspired Laura's Career (10:39) The Industry Is for Everyone: On Education, Drive & Finding Your Path (19:05) Growing Up on the Farm & How Creativity Takes Root (28:13) From Hair to Skin How Lucy Built a Multi-Location Spa Empire (34:28) Manifesting Your Business: Why There Was Never a Plan B (38:11) Staying Positive Through Hard Times Movement, Faith & Norman Vincent Peale (46:34) Why Lucy Created Her Own Skincare Line (And What Makes It Different) (53:04) Breaking Down the Products: Body Wash, Walnut Mint Scrub & Vitamin C (56:11) The Prescription Pad Method — How Lucy Teaches Clients to Use Products Right (58:54) The One Product Lucy Takes on Every Vacation (1:02:39) It's Never Too Late to Start Something New (1:03:13) Wrap Up & Thank You 💡 TIP OF THE WEEK When applying your serums and treatments, start at the hairline and work inward...not from the center of your face outward. The center of your face (the T-zone) typically needs the least product. The hairline, temples, and outer edges are where sun damage and discoloration actually live, so that’s where your active ingredients need to go. 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK * Lucy Lindsey Vitamin C — Three derivatives of L-ascorbic acid in a stable, oxidation-resistant formula with gold. Corrects, lightens, and feeds the skin’s cells. $49. https://lucylindseybeauty.com/products/tight-and-light-gold-three * Lucy Lindsey Walnut Mint Scrub — Lucy’s original and best-selling product. Use as a scrub, a mask, a body exfoliant, or a leg shave prep. Glowing skin guaranteed. $24. https://lucylindseybeauty.com/products/walnut-mint-exfoliating-mask?pr_prod_strat=jac&pr_rec_id=265fd0081&pr_rec_pid=3580887662666&pr_ref_pid=4543719505994&pr_seq=uniform * Lucy Lindsey Body Wash — Formulated with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and nine fruit enzymes. Tackles keratosis, back bumps, rough legs, and chest damage. Use with the strap for best results. https://lucylindseybeauty.com/collections/body-care/products/citrus-blast-exfoliating-body-wash 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS * Lucy Lindsey Skincare — Corrective skincare line developed from nearly 50 years of professional experience. Products available direct at: https://lucylindseybeauty.com/ * Kat Caroy — The web and branding expert Lucy credits with transforming her online presence. https://www.katcoroy.com/ * The Amazing Results of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale — The book Lucy turned to during one of the hardest seasons of her business life. Highly recommended. https://www.amazon.com/Positive-Thinking-Every-Day-Inspiration/dp/0671868918/ref=pd_bxgy_thbs_d_sccl_1/131-8891627-8791647?pd_rd_w=UlViZ&content-id=amzn1.sym.dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_p=dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_r=9HJ3D022TJ04FB5G806V&pd_rd_wg=46Jmf&pd_rd_r=3e165d6f-1fd6-4abd-9229-2b7622b6e29d&pd_rd_i=0671868918&psc=1 * 📅 Book an Appointment with Laura https://laurabarrowmua.com/ * 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/ 👤 ABOUT OUR GUEST Lucy Lindsey is a CIDESCO-licensed esthetician and cosmetologist with nearly 50 years in the beauty industry. She and her late husband, Don, built a multi-location salon and medical day spa empire in Lubbock, Texas, growing from 1,250 square feet to over 8,000 square feet before relocating to Naples, Florida. Lucy is a product developer and the founder of Lucy Lindsey Skincare, a professional corrective line built around the philosophy that real results come from real ingredients. She is also Laura’s sister.✨ HIGHLIGHTS * “I got up as excited today at 70 as I did at 19. When you have a profession that you love like that, it is priceless.” * “Don’t follow the money. Take care of that client. The money will come.. the money is not number one, period.” * “Tiny steps create a hundred percent.” * “I end my blogs with: I’m Lucy Lindsey, and I’m not AI.” 💥 CONNECT WITH US * 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod * 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod * 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo * 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too * 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube and leave us a review! It helps more beauty pros and business babes find the show. We read every single one. 💗 Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 ABOUT THIS EPISODE We took a little break, but we’re back and we've got receipts. Laura and Brandy are officially relaunching Pretty Smart Too with a brand new format: more interviews, more insider product knowledge, and the trade secrets they’ve been keeping in their back pockets for years. Think of this as the “previously on” episode before things get really good. This week they’re spilling on two products that have quietly been saving them time, money, and back pain. They will also be previewing the technique deep-dives coming in future episodes. If you’ve ever felt like you were the last to know something obvious in the industry, this one’s for you. 🧠 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN * Why Brandy swapped her lash supply order for a $30 Amazon find — and why it might be the best 250 feet of your career * How Laura carries foundation for every skin tone on the planet in three small palettes (and what that means for your kit) * What’s coming next: interview episodes, technique breakdowns, and product reveals every single week * Why Laura’s extraction technique has been her most-guarded professional secret — and that she’s finally ready to share it * How Brandy’s lashing approach breaks the “one size fits all” mold — and why that’s exactly what makes clients come back ⏰ CHAPTERS (00:00:00) Welcome Back — Catching Up & The Band Name You Didn't See Coming (00:02:04) Season 2 Announcement & What's New This Season (00:03:02) Reintroductions: Meet Laura & Brandy (00:04:21) Brandy's Lash Journey — 10 Years in the Making (00:06:02) Product of the Week: The $30 Parafilm Hack Every Lash Artist Needs (00:08:47) Product of the Week: Make Up For Ever HD Foundation Palettes (00:13:09) Trade Secrets Preview — Extractions, Lashing Technique & Tutorials Coming (00:17:48) Next Week's Guest: Lucy Lindsay, CIDESCO Esthetician (00:19:35) Wrap Up & See You Next Week 🌱 FUTURE EPISODES June 8, 2026 Our sisterhood episode! Lucy Lindsey of Lucy Lindsey Beauty stops by to share her results driven products and 50 years of experience in the always growing beauty industry. https://lucylindseybeauty.com/ June 15, 2026 Ana Lauren Actress, writer, producer, and model shares her journey in the entertainment industry. https://www.instagram.com/theanalauren?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== June 22, 2026 Ariel Moody, CEO and Co-founder of Mama Sol stops by to share her non-toxic products and how she started her brand. https://www.shopmamasol.com/pages/our-story 🛍️ PRODUCT OF THE WEEK * Parafilm (250 ft roll) — The lash glove technique essential Brandy switched to from her lash brand’s overpriced sheets. Same product, fraction of the cost. https://amzn.to/4dJtaQ4 * Make Up For Ever HD Foundation Palettes — Laura’s secret weapon for covering every skin tone on set or at a wedding without hauling a suitcase full of individual foundations. Full, medium, and light coverage all in one book. https://amzn.to/4o8ZOyg 🔗 RESOURCES & MENTIONS * Make Up For Ever — HD foundations, lip pencils, lipsticks & palettes. Cinema-ready, no flashback, all skin types. https://amzn.to/4eeUJkl * Parafilm (Amazon) —“Parafilm 250 ft roll”. https://amzn.to/3RFyU4Y * Lucy Lindsay Skincare — Laura’s sister & next week’s guest. CIDESCO-licensed esthetician, business owner, and owner of her own skincare line. https://lucylindseybeauty.com/ * 📆 Book an Appointment with Laura: https://laurabarrowmua.com/ * 📅 Book an Appointment with Brandy: https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/ 💥 CONNECT WITH US * 🎥 YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod * 📸 Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod * 🎵 TikTok: @PrettySmartToo * 👥 Facebook: Pretty Smart Too * 🌐 Website: prettysmarttoo.com 🙌 LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube and leave us a review! It helps more beauty pros find the show. We read every single one. 💗 ✨ COMING UP NEXT * Next week: Laura’s sister Lucy Lindsay joins the show — CIDESCO-licensed, globally trained, and the woman who walks into a spa and immediately knows exactly what you’re doing wrong (lovingly). ♥️ * Soon: Laura’s extraction technique.. the one she’s never taught employees until she knew they were staying. 🤩 * Soon: Brandy’s lash mapping method the technique behind lashes that look like you , not like there’s caterpillars 🐛 on your clients eyes. Wishing you love, peace, & great skin! Laura & Brandy XOXO 💋 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary It’s our spooky-season special! Laura (in her “Morticia chair” 🖤) and Brandy swap hilarious, slightly horrifying, and super-useful waxing stories—first Brazilians, “butt strips”, screamers, mother-in-law mishaps, even a spray-tan-gone-pumpkin. In between laughs, they share practical pro tips on hair growth cycles, pain management, timing around your period, setting client expectations, and how small-town spas can build a booming waxing book. If you wax, want to wax, or just need a laugh—you’re home. 🧠 What You’ll Learn * How to time Brazilians for less pain (and what to avoid before your appointment) * The truth about the “butt strip” (why it barely hurts + why clients love it) * Hair growth cycles 101 and why consistent waxing gets easier (and thinner!) * Scripts & setup for managing “screamers” without spooking the whole spa * Small-town strategy: build a once-a-month visiting waxer program * Wax + tools recs to explore (hard wax, trimmers, and what makes a difference) ⏱️ Chapters (00:00) Halloween vibes, new clients, auditions & Monsterpalooza weekend (07:39) Topic kickoff: Why Brazilians still scare people (and why they shouldn’t) (09:56) Who gets waxed? Everyone—from athletes to grandmas (12:32) Cleveland caper: speeding (…in km/h), sushi, and a first “butt strip” (18:22) Airport chaos, missed flights & cardboard Ludacris 🤦‍♀️ (19:36) The “butt strip” case for comfort + cleanliness (20:34) Hair growth cycles: why consistency = less pain, less regrowth (22:17) Pain tips, period timing, and scheduling screamers wisely (24:28) Spray-tan horror: orange, tow yard, and a lesson learned (29:59) Small-town playbook: the monthly visiting Brazilian specialist (30:45) Wax talk: Mermaid , Cirepil , Bushbalm —plus the tiny “peanut” trimmer (32:11) Family tales: yes, Laura waxed her mother-in-law (consent + comedy) (42:24) When a trainee asks for scissors… (and why prep matters) (45:41) Razorback stencils, athlete legs & memorable clientele (47:29) Plot twist: the professor-vibe client who was a retired adult-film star (48:22) Wrap + Halloween wishes ✨ Highlights * “The butt strip doesn’t hurt like you think—clients are always surprised.” * Book Brazilians the week after your period for the calmest experience. * Tell clients: hair should be about a grain of rice—too short or too long hurts results. * Quiet room hacks for screamers: isolate bookings, manage expectations, breathe together. * Small-town win: host an out-of-town waxer 1 day/month and fill 10–13 slots = great revenue. 💡 Tip of the Week: Set your waxing clients up for success : pre-appointment text with hair length guideline (grain of rice), timing tip (week after period), pain expectations, and aftercare. Less fear, better results. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Cirepil Blue Wax Bushbalm Wahl Peanut Trimmer Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this confidence-boosting conversation, Laura sits down with Marisol Lunceford —licensed esthetician, international educator, and DMK Skin Revisions leader—to talk about what truly builds confidence in the treatment room. From running paid consultations that set expectations to choosing education that actually changes outcomes, Marisol shares practical frameworks solo esties and spa teams can use right away. You’ll also hear why she returned to the industry for DMK - Danné Montague-King Co. , how “thinking therapists” get lasting results, and the small pro touches (hello, presence + attire) that make clients trust you—and rebook. 🧠 What You’ll Learn * Confidence, for real: Why continued education (beyond product facts) accelerates results and self-belief. * Consults that convert: How to structure a paid, face-to-face consultation that sets plans, homecare, and rebooking. * Owner/solo wins: A simple script to ask for +15 min consult time—and prove the ROI. * The DMK difference: Working with skin function; why clients can feel enzyme therapy working. * Professional presence: Dress the part, communicate clearly, and let genuine enthusiasm lead ethical sales. ⏱️ Chapters (00:00) Welcome & Guest Intro: Who is Marisol Lunsford (DMK) (02:10) Education Roots: Santa Monica College, value vs. “fancy” schools (05:30) Never Stop Learning: Getting licensed vs. becoming a pro (08:00) Career Story: Murad years, creativity, and industry shifts (12:45) Why DMK: Returning to pro skincare with provider-first support (16:40) “Thinking Therapist”: Treating dysfunction, not just doing “fluffy facials” (20:10) Enzyme Therapy 101: Clients feel the change—and why that matters (23:15) Confidence via Consultation: Structure, expectations, rebooking (27:30) Solo & Team Tactics: Add 15-min consults and show the business case (33:20) Presence Sells: Dress the part, lead with clarity (41:15) Tip of the Week & Wrap 💡 Tip of the Week: Invest in your education—and look the part. Confidence comes from mastery and modeling professionalism: keep learning, communicate a plan, and present yourself like the expert you are. 🔗 Resources & Mentions * DMK Skin Revisions — education & protocols * Enzyme Therapy basics * Santa Monica College Aesthetics program * Murad (industry background reference) * Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: * Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: * Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this reflective episode of Pretty Smart Too , Laura (checking in from shady Lacey Park in Pasadena) and Brandy (fresh off a soul-filling weekend in Northwest Arkansas) talk about burnout, slow seasons, and the difference between happiness and joy . They share real-world strategies for coping when business is quiet, reframing comparison, and finding low-cost ways to recharge. From doing “free and beautiful” things in your own town to protecting time with family, they remind estheticians that sustainable success comes from quiet, consistent joy —not constant dopamine hits. If you’ve felt stretched, stuck, or guilty for resting, this one’s your reset. 🧠 What You’ll Learn * How to reframe slow seasons: “good—we’re slow” → time to restore and plan * Practical rest: free local ideas that refill your cup without draining your wallet * Why joy (the climate) outlasts happiness (the weather) in business and life * Boundaries that protect your energy from work “follow-home” stress * Simple ways to break the monotony: podcasting, LinkedIn articles, journaling, vision boards, and yes, even making TikToks * How gratitude + purpose help you show up better in the treatment room ⏱️ Chapters (00:00) Weekend recap and finding joy in simple moments (05:06) Burnout and the difference between happiness and joy (10:23) Using slow seasons to recharge and refocus (15:33) Faith, gratitude, and choosing calm over chaos (20:24) Purpose, creativity, and finding meaning in your work (24:07) Tip of the Week: Chase joy, not just happiness ✨ Highlights ✨ “Happiness is like the weather ; joy is the climate .” Build for climate. ✨ Slow doesn’t mean failing—slow is where strategy, study, and soul care live. ✨ Free restores count: parks, museums, neighborhood walks, planning dates, church, books, libraries, Bible studies, book clubs, journals. ✨ Don’t let 3 p.m. client stress steal your 9 p.m. family time. ✨ Purpose fuels service; clients feel the difference. 💡 Tip of the Week: Chase joy, not just happiness. Skip temporary highs and invest in what quietly sustains you—meaningful work, presence, self-acceptance. Ask: What brings me calm, lasting joy? Do more of that. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this creative-and-keep-it-real episode of Pretty Smart Too , Laura and Brandy welcome Raven Purifoy —digital creator, writer, and now spa manager at Kyle & Co in El Dorado. Raven breaks down what actually moves the needle for beauty businesses: choose your platforms, post consistently (not constantly), repurpose like a pro, and make your brand a lived experience—not just a pretty feed. The trio also dig into small-town vs. social media marketing, how to vet influencers (ask for social proof ), and why your own team can be your best “influencers.” It’s equal parts strategy, encouragement, and community-first mindset. 🧠 What You’ll Learn * How to pick 1–2 platforms and find your lane (test, track, double down). * Weekly habits to stay consistent (batch content in one hour; use Canva + simple TikToks). * Small town playbook: when to use social, events, sponsorships, and word-of-mouth. * Influencers that convert: ask for ROI receipts and create your own internal influencers. * Build a reusable content library (photos, B-roll, treatment room shots) for media asks. * Repurposing content 101: reuse captions, re-cut clips, re-share seasonal posts. * Brand magnetism = authenticity + integrity + in-person experience (match online to IRL). * Target-market alignment: your content should attract the clients you actually want. * Mindset for “start-over seasons”: control what you can, light up the room, keep going. ⏱️ Chapters * 00:00 Catch-up & Weekend Vibes * 02:06 Intros & Who We Serve * 03:30 Meet Our Guest: Raven Purifoy * 05:06 Where to Start on Social (choose 1–2 platforms) * 06:35 Pivoting: What Worked Last Month May Not Work Next Month * 07:20 Small Town Marketing vs. Social Media * 08:50 Branding = Consistency (logo, fonts, daily story ritual) * 10:02 Weekly Habits: Batch 3–4 Posts in 1 Hour * 11:23 Influencers: Social Proof, Expectations & ROI * 15:55 Use Your Team as “House Influencers” + Media Days * 16:52 Build a Photo/Video Library for Press & Busy Season * 18:18 Repurposing Content (graphics, captions, multi-platform) * 20:37 Repetition Works (be seen 8–9 times) * 21:45 What Makes a Brand Magnetic (authenticity + in-store experience) * 24:10 Dress the Part & Match Your Feed to Reality * 25:31 Businesses that Nourish : Community-first and service mindset * 29:28 Purpose > Pressure (the feeling clients leave with) * 31:39 Target Market Snowball: Pitch the right people * 32:34 Outreach Idea: Speak at industry meetups (realtors, etc.) * 34:44 Starting Over: Bow-and-arrow mindset (pull back → propel forward) * 39:12 Taking Opportunities & Networking IRL * 41:20 Parting Words: Authenticity, Integrity, Consistency * 41:39 Tip of the Week ✨ Highlights ✨ Consistency You Can Keep : One focused hour a week → three posts + a couple TikToks. ✨ Repurpose Relentlessly : Old “we’re open” graphic? Repost it. Great caption? Turn it into a graphic. ✨ Influencer Reality Check : Ask for results, require deliverables, or tap your team as creators. ✨ Brand = Experience : Your store vibe must match your grid (cleanliness, tone, hospitality). ✨ Right Clients, Right Content : Fast-discount vibes attract fast-discount clients; post the experience you want to deliver. ✨ Community > Everything : Volunteer, show up, and let word-of-mouth compound. 💡 Tip of the Week: Build a community around your spa. Your spa isn’t just a place for treatments—it’s a space for connection. Share behind-the-scenes, spotlight loyal clients, and invite conversation. When people feel included, they become ambassadors who bring others along. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this powerhouse episode of Pretty Smart Too , Laura and Brandy are joined by special guest Rebecca Betancourt , National Corporate Training Executive for ZO Skin Health. Known for transforming complex skin science into practical strategies, Rebecca shares her journey into medical aesthetics, her passion for protocols, and why the prescription pad is an esthetician’s most powerful tool. From building confidence in consultations to moving past “salesy” fears, this conversation is a masterclass in professionalism, patient trust, and skin-transforming results. Whether you’re a new esthetician or a seasoned provider, Rebecca’s insights will leave you inspired to step into the treatment room with authority. 🧠 What You’ll Learn * Why consultations fail—and how to make yours comprehensive and impactful. * The role of the prescription pad in building trust and boosting retention. * How to recommend products with confidence (without feeling “salesy”). * Why mastering protocols elevates you from service provider to trusted expert. * Rebecca’s tried-and-true advice for overcoming imposter syndrome in aesthetics. ⏱️ Chapters (00:00) Catching Up at Rockwater Resort (02:10) Welcoming Rebecca Betancourt (07:00) Rebecca’s Journey into Medical Aesthetics (09:00) Why She Chose ZO Skin Health (11:00) What Makes a Consultation Effective (13:00) Using the Prescription Pad with Confidence (15:00) Overcoming the Fear of “Selling” (18:00) Building Protocols That Work (23:00) Why Knowledge = Confidence (25:00) The Power of Words: Treatments vs. Facials (27:00) Creating Long-Term Treatment Plans (29:00) Rebecca’s Best Advice for Confidence (32:00) Tip of the Week: Arrive Ready to Give ✨ Highlights ✨ Prescription Pad Power – How writing it down elevates you from service provider to trusted expert. ✨ Confidence Over Sales – Use “because you said, I chose” to guide clients without pushing products. ✨ Mastering Protocols – Why true confidence only comes from practicing what you recommend. ✨ Reframing the Role – You’re not just doing facials—you’re delivering treatments backed by science. 💡 Tip of the Week: Show up ready to give. Leave your outside stress at the door and walk into your space prepared to share knowledge, patience, and presence. Clients come to you for confidence—make sure you’re in a place to give it. 🔗 Resources & Mentions ZO Skin Health products Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this inspiring and heart-centered episode of Pretty Smart Too , Brandy shares her big news: she’s the new Wellness Director at The Spa at Rockwater , part of a groundbreaking wellness community in North Little Rock. Brandy’s story is a reminder that change can lead to expansion—personally and professionally. Meanwhile, Laura reflects on her own season of change, thriving in her solo suite and embracing creative freedom in both business and life (including a chance bathroom run-in with Pamela Anderson!). Together, they explore how the transitions we go through mirror the fall season—when we shed what no longer serves us and let our true colors show. 🧠 What You’ll Learn You’ll hear how Brandy’s new role opened her eyes to what support really feels like—and how sometimes the best opportunities come from a spontaneous scroll. You’ll also hear practical ways to lean into fall as an esthetician, from seasonal skincare menus to why your fall specials don’t need to include discounts to be valuable. ⏱️ Chapters * 00:00 Big Moves & New Seasons * 01:00 Brandy’s New Spa at Rockwater * 07:30 What Support Really Looks Like * 13:00 Laura’s Season of Creative Freedom * 16:30 Fall Skin Care Menus & Brainstorming Sessions * 21:00 Specials Without Discounts * 25:00 What’s Working for Laura in Pasadena * 28:00 Products We’re Loving Right Now * 32:00 Pumpkin Spice & Permission to Enjoy Life * 35:00 Laura’s Hollywood Adventures * 37:00 Tip of the Week: Let Yourself Shed ✨ Highlights ✨ Fall Menus Without the Markdown – Your seasonal specials don’t need to be discounted. Add value, not just a sale tag. ✨ Creative Brainstorms That Work – Why Brandy took her team off-site for a vibe-reset meeting that sparked real ideas. ✨ You Already Have What You Need – Laura shares how using what’s in your “spa pantry” can unlock new service ideas without breaking the budget. ✨ A New Definition of Success – Brandy discovers what it feels like to have a team behind her—and how it’s changing her definition of hustle. ✨ Laura’s Solo Suite Vibes – Running your business on your own terms is possible—and fulfilling. ✨ Skincare Meets Self-Care – From pumpkin enzymes to exfoliating the summer off, it’s the perfect time to switch up your skincare game. 💡 Tip of the Week: Let yourself shed. Fall reminds us that letting go is part of the beauty of life. Whether it’s outdated routines or one-sided relationships, you’re allowed to release what no longer supports your growth. Your skin is shedding. Your heart can too. Change isn’t loss—it’s life. Glow through it. 🔗 Resources & Mentions ZO Skin Health products Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this episode of Pretty Smart Too , Laura and Brandy start their Sunday morning routine with coffee, cleanser, and a whole lot of real talk. Brandy teases a major update coming to her Little Rock location and shares her mantra: don’t be afraid to evolve. Laura reflects on how challenging it can be to grow in two places at once—and how powerful it is when women claim their right to run businesses like CEOs, not martyrs. From their experience with the Murphy Arts District grand opening in El Dorado to managing multi-location spas across states, Laura and Brandy unpack the realities of building your own beauty empire while holding your ground (and your boundaries). They talk about risk, reinvention, and redefining success on your own terms—plus they throw in a Sunday skincare routine you’ll want to steal. 🧠 What You’ll Learn This episode blends personal reflection with professional inspiration. You’ll learn: * Why growth often looks like chaos before it looks like success * How to run your spa like a boss—not a burned-out employee * How Laura builds her morning skincare routine using ZO Skin Health products * What it means to take risks in order to evolve * How to confidently lead without having to be physically in the room ⏱️ Chapters * 00:00 Morning Preparations * 02:05 Special Event Marketing & Vendor/Booth Ideas * 04:53 Embracing Change and Growth * 06:08 Taking Risks and Evolving * 08:30 Women in Business: Breaking Barriers * 11:41 Community and Support * 11:44 Skincare Routine and Product Insights * 22:46 Tip of the Week ✨ Highlights ✨ Risk & Reinvention – Why you shouldn’t wait to be “ready” to say yes to a new opportunity. ✨ CEO Energy – Reframing leadership and stepping into ownership (even when you’re not in the room). ✨ ZO Skin Health Secrets – Laura shares her detailed morning routine using exfoliating cleansers, oil control pads, firming serums, and more. ✨ Build Smarter, Not Harder – Why hiring well, trusting your team, and creating structure can free you up to scale. ✨ Skincare Wisdom – From product layering to ingredient education, this episode delivers skincare advice you can actually use. 💡 Tip of the Week: T ake the risk. Don’t wait for permission. The worst that happens? You learn something. The best? You grow. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

📌 Episode Summary In this heartfelt and practical episode of Pretty Smart Too , Laura and Brandy open up about the realities of running a beauty business while balancing life’s challenges. Brandy shares her journey of starting therapy after the loss of her mom, the importance of self-care, and raising kids. Laura shares that Max is moving out and leaving her half way to an empty nest. Both Laura and Brandy relate to the struggle of starting over in a new locations and together they remind us that talking it out, seeking support, and validating your feelings is part of thriving, not just surviving. 🧠 What You’ll Learn Then, they pivot into the business side of being estheticians. If you’ve ever looked at your appointment calendar and felt panic at the empty spots, this episode is for you. Laura and Brandy dig into strategies for going from “zero to hero” when it comes to building a clientele, including: ⏱️ Chapters * 00:00 A Little Heart to Heart * 04:56 Marketing & Planning * 08:36 Community Involvement * 14:00 Smart Promotions * 20:00 Harnessing Your Entrepreneurial Spirit * 24:00 Retail Sales & Retention * 34:40 Social Media Savvy * 42:00 Email & Text Campaigns * 47:15 Thinking Outside the Box * 1:00:20 Tip of the Week ✨ Marketing & Planning – Why consistency and a marketing calendar set the tone for success. ✨ Community Involvement – Leveraging chambers of commerce, local events, and even hotel concierges to get your name out. ✨ Smart Promotions – Creating value-add offers (not desperate discounts) that attract loyal clients. ✨ Retail Sales & Retention – How recommending skincare the right way builds trust and keeps clients coming back. ✨ Social Media Savvy – The power of Canva, TikTok, and content repurposing to showcase your expertise. ✨ Email & Text Campaigns – Why building an email list and using targeted text reminders is non-negotiable. ✨ Thinking Outside the Box – From partnering with women’s Facebook groups, to gift card collabs with doctors, to writing letters to teachers for back-to-school promotions. Throughout the episode, Laura and Brandy remind estheticians that building a business is about creativity, persistence, and relationships. Not every idea will work—but pivoting, trying again, and staying visible is the key to success. 💡 Tip of the Week: What you do matters. You are the expert. Every client you touch leaves a little different than when they arrived—whether it’s their skin, their confidence, or their mood. Share those stories, post the transformations, and remind people why your work is worth booking. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com

🎙️ Elevating Client Experience for Estheticians and Spa Owners: The Power of a Clutter-Free Space & Quality Amenities 📌 Episode Summary Make your treatment room feel expensive (without spending much) using softer linens, clutter‑free design, thoughtful gestures, and hospitality that guests rave about. This week, Laura and Brandy show how to turn any treatment room into a calming, high‑end experience clients can feel the moment they walk in. They share linen picks that actually last, why flat sheets beat fitted on spa tables, and budget wins like Amazon for disposables (but not for skincare). You’ll hear clever décor swaps (hello, stylish canisters), how partnering with local artists fills bare walls and drives art sales, and hospitality rules of thumb—clear beverages, tidy snacks, and true concierge touches (yes, carry the guest’s basket between services). Plus, Laura’s pre‑booking prompts that do the selling for you, and Brandy has a sweet “tip of the week” poem about clearing space to clear your mind. ⚙️ Equipment & Brands Mentioned * Quilts * Sposh Sheets (Moonstone) * Bojo Canisters that Laura loves * Pride gloves that Brandy loves ⸻ ⏱️ Chapters * 00:00 Funny Stories and Personal Updates * 04:41 Professional Insights and Aesthetic Tips * 08:20 Location Changes and Business Challenges * 12:43 Lessons from Equipment Purchases * 18:23 Choosing Quality Linens and Towels * 23:19 The Importance of Consumables * 24:13 Maximizing Convenience with Amazon * 28:20 Setting Up Your Treatment Room for Success * 32:21 Creating an Elevated Client Experience * 39:12 Lessons Learned in Providing Quality Service ⸻ 🧠 What You’ll Learn * Amazon is unbeatable for consumables due to price and speed. * Setting up a treatment room for flow is crucial for client comfort. * Creating an elevated experience can lead to higher client retention. * Quality consumables can enhance the overall service experience. * Being frugal can sometimes lead to missed opportunities for client satisfaction. * Having a well-organized treatment room improves efficiency. * Offering complimentary drinks can enhance the client experience. * Pre-booking appointments is essential for maintaining a busy schedule. * Attention to detail in service can lead to better gratuities. * Taking time off for self-care is important for business owners. * A clear space leads to a clearer mind, as emphasized in the tip of the week. * Navigating business challenges is part of the entrepreneurial journey. * Collaborating with local artists can enhance the spa's aesthetic and community ties. * Choosing the right linens can elevate the spa experience. ⸻ 🔗 Resources & Mentions * Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena * Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado * Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock * Past Episode: Pretty Organized ⸻ 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod TikTok: @PrettySmartToo Facebook: Pretty Smart Too Website: prettysmarttoo.com ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts & YouTube . Reviews help more people in beauty and business find the show—and we love hearing what resonates with you! ⸻ 🌈 Keywords Amazon, local shopping, treatment room, client experience, consumables, esthetics, business tips, hospitality, elevated experience, quality products, ginger ale, community support, spa tips, social media, estheticians, business challenges, local artists, linens, consumables, Amazon shopping This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prettysmarttoo.substack.com