How to Grow When You Feel Stuck as an Esthetician: Choosing Joy, Letting Go, and Prioritizing What Matters Most. It's Time to Let Go and Let God!

Brazilian Wax Horror Stories: From Screamers to Smooth Skin

📌 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 [https://mermaidwax.com/collections/pro-wholesale], Cirepil [https://amzn.to/43pTsB9], Bushbalm [https://amzn.to/3JawJSY]—plus the tiny “peanut” trimmer [https://amzn.to/3JkuegS] (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 [https://amzn.to/43pTsB9] Bushbalm [https://amzn.to/3JawJSY] Wahl Peanut Trimmer [https://amzn.to/3JkuegS] Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: [https://lauras.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: [https://kyleandcompany.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: [https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/] 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.youtube.com/@PrettySmartTooPod] Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.instagram.com/prettysmarttoopod/] TikTok: @PrettySmartToo [https://www.tiktok.com/@prettysmarttoo] Facebook: Pretty Smart Too [https://www.facebook.com/prettysmarttoo] Website: prettysmarttoo.com [https://prettysmarttoo.com/] ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretty-smart-too/id1826623618] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCby73sWjD9UtrUnOyxdRlCw]. 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 [https://prettysmarttoo.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Building Confidence in the Treatment Room w/ Marisol Lunceford | DMK

📌 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 [https://www.dannemking.com/] — education & protocols * Enzyme Therapy [https://www.dmkskincare.co.za/dmk-enzyme-therapy/] basics * Santa Monica College [https://www.smc.edu/academics/academic-departments/cosmetology/skin-care.php] Aesthetics program * Murad [https://www.murad.com/collections/bestsellers?g_acctid=644-870-5280&g_adgroupid=176167713059&g_adid=736838033694&g_adtype=search&g_campaign=Search+-+Brand+-+Core+-+GFF_AdAi&g_campaignid=22314280963&g_keyword=murad&g_keywordid=kwd-95960097&g_network=g&g_type=search_display&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22314280963&gbraid=0AAAAAD1LT-ZJGGi0vCys5zJlUXupdDm8K&gclid=CjwKCAjwxrLHBhA2EiwAu9EdM-qc4ZOP9WpEFPCqV4_MC7klJgW-p3vxSVjt1E9OXwP-wh9XcGNuxhoCd1wQAvD_BwE] (industry background reference) * Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: [https://lauras.glossgenius.com/] * Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: [https://kyleandcompany.glossgenius.com/] * Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: [https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/] 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.youtube.com/@PrettySmartTooPod] Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.instagram.com/prettysmarttoopod/] TikTok: @PrettySmartToo [https://www.tiktok.com/@prettysmarttoo] Facebook: Pretty Smart Too [https://www.facebook.com/prettysmarttoo] Website: prettysmarttoo.com [https://prettysmarttoo.com/] ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretty-smart-too/id1826623618] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCby73sWjD9UtrUnOyxdRlCw]. 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 [https://prettysmarttoo.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

How to Grow When You Feel Stuck as an Esthetician: Choosing Joy, Letting Go, and Prioritizing What Matters Most. It's Time to Let Go and Let God!

📌 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: [https://lauras.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: [https://kyleandcompany.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: [https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/] 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.youtube.com/@PrettySmartTooPod] Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.instagram.com/prettysmarttoopod/] TikTok: @PrettySmartToo [https://www.tiktok.com/@prettysmarttoo] Facebook: Pretty Smart Too [https://www.facebook.com/prettysmarttoo] Website: prettysmarttoo.com [https://prettysmarttoo.com/] ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretty-smart-too/id1826623618] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCby73sWjD9UtrUnOyxdRlCw]. 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 [https://prettysmarttoo.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Raven Purifoy | Marketing 101 for Aestheticians and Spa Professionals

📌 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: [https://lauras.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: [https://kyleandcompany.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: [https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/] 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.youtube.com/@PrettySmartTooPod] Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.instagram.com/prettysmarttoopod/] TikTok: @PrettySmartToo [https://www.tiktok.com/@prettysmarttoo] Facebook: Pretty Smart Too [https://www.facebook.com/prettysmarttoo] Website: prettysmarttoo.com [https://prettysmarttoo.com/] ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretty-smart-too/id1826623618] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCby73sWjD9UtrUnOyxdRlCw]. 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 [https://prettysmarttoo.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Rebecca Betancourt | ZO Skin Health

📌 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 [https://zoskinhealth.com/?practice-ref=8475175&practice-name=Kyle+Co+Lash+and+Skin+Studio] Book an Appointment with Laura in Pasadena: [https://lauras.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in El Dorado: [https://kyleandcompany.glossgenius.com/] Book an Appointment with Brandy in Little Rock: [https://rockwaterspa.glossgenius.com/] 💥 Connect with Us YouTube: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.youtube.com/@PrettySmartTooPod] Instagram: @PrettySmartTooPod [https://www.instagram.com/prettysmarttoopod/] TikTok: @PrettySmartToo [https://www.tiktok.com/@prettysmarttoo] Facebook: Pretty Smart Too [https://www.facebook.com/prettysmarttoo] Website: prettysmarttoo.com [https://prettysmarttoo.com/] ⸻ 🙌 If You Loved This Episode… Please follow Pretty Smart Too on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pretty-smart-too/id1826623618] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCby73sWjD9UtrUnOyxdRlCw]. 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 [https://prettysmarttoo.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]