Unwritten Beauty Talks – Details, episodes & analysis

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In this episode, Katarina Forster sits down with Jena Mehlberg, a seasoned beauty industry professional and entrepreneur with nearly two decades of hands-on experience.

Jena’s journey in beauty began early. Inspired by her mother, who owned a massage therapy business, she launched her own mobile beauty business at just 19 years old. Over the years, she grew that mobile venture into a successful brick-and-mortar salon, which she owned for eight years before selling it to pursue her next chapter in tech.

Having worked in nearly every role — employee, renter, salon owner, and employer — Jena brings a rare, well-rounded perspective to the conversation. With a degree in Business Management and a passion for blending beauty with business strategy, she has spent the past three years coaching beauty professionals across the country.

In 2024, Jena began building her own CRM platform designed specifically for the beauty industry, aiming to bridge the gap between beauty and technology. Her mission is to create tools that elevate the client experience while empowering beauty pros to grow, streamline, and adapt in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Beyond her work in salons and software, Jena has spoken at conferences nationwide, sharing her expertise on entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, diversity in beauty, and creating authentic client experiences. She uses her platform to advocate for greater representation industry-wide. Outside of work, she is a proud mom to her son, Hayden, who already mirrors her entrepreneurial drive and love of travel.

What We Cover in This Episode

• Building long-lasting client relationships
• The deeper emotional meaning behind beauty services
• Jena’s shift from service provider → educator → tech founder
• Client retention strategies that actually work
• How automation can support human connection
• The future of beauty with AI and emerging technology
• The importance of constant education and mindset work
• Creating emotional and transformative experiences for clients
• Navigating growth and adaptation in a fast-changing industry

This conversation is packed with insights for beauty professionals at every stage, whether you're behind the chair, educating, or building something new.

Connect With Jena

Salon Software: https://salonflow.io/home

Mastering Beauty Academy: https://www.catalystbeautygroup.com/mba

Instagram: @jenamehlberg
Facebook: Jena Mehlberg

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

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In this episode of Unwritten Beauty Talks, host Katarina Forster sits down with Dr. Dave Stachura and Tiffany Underwood from Factor Five Skincare to explore the science behind growth factors, stem cells, exosomes, and clean beauty.They discuss Factor Five’s mission to create effective, clean skincare products without fillers or unnecessary additives, the science behind their formulations, and how their products address a wide range of skin concerns. The conversation also delves into how skincare treatments promote healing, collagen production, and client confidence, while highlighting the differences between stem cells, growth factors, and exosomes.

• Factor Five Skincare focuses on growth factors and stem cells to deliver effective skincare solutions.
• Their mission is to provide clean, additive-free products without compromising results.
• Understanding the differences between stem cells, growth factors, and exosomes is key for informed skincare decisions.
• Skincare treatments often involve controlled disruptions to promote healing, collagen production, and skin renewal.
• Factor Five products are designed for a wide range of skin types and concerns, including sensitive skin.
• Their eye and lash cream is highly effective and safe for daily use.
• Retinol can be safely included in skincare for sensitive skin when formulated correctly.
• Exosomes need to be stabilized for effective use in topical skincare products.

Dr. Dave Stachura – Chief Operations Officer and Chief Scientific Officer at Factor Five Skincare and SpecBio, Dr. Stachura leads the science behind all Factor Five formulations. He holds a BSc in Molecular Biology from Lehigh University and a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Pennsylvania, followed by postdoctoral training at UC San Diego. His career focuses on genetic control of adult stem cell biology using hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs). Dr. Stachura has several patents, published over 40 peer-reviewed articles, contributed two book chapters, and edited an immunology textbook. He continues research in stem cells, immunology, exosomes, skincare, and wound healing and founded Philanthropic Pharma, a nonprofit pharmaceutical company aimed at discovering new treatments for human diseases.

Tiffany Underwood – Director of Education at Factor Five Skincare, Tiffany works closely with professional partners and brings a strong clinical perspective to the team. A licensed esthetician and founder of SkinCo, she blends biology, product formulation, and advanced esthetics to deliver results-driven treatments while empowering professionals to stay connected to their “why.” Inspired by her journey with cancer.

📸 Instagram: @_skin_co
📧 Contact: david@factorfiveskin.com

🔗 Connect with Factor Five Skincare:

🌐 Website: Factor Five Skincare
📸 Instagram: @factorfiveskin

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Kristen Young—SkinBetter Science representative, long-time aesthetic industry pro, and living proof that aging well is a conscious choice. Kristen’s story is one of resilience—surviving childhood cancer and overcoming immense health challenges has shaped the way she approaches skincare, wellness, and life.

We talk about her career in aesthetics, her favorite SkinBetter products, and the in-office treatments she personally swears by. Kristen also shares the daily habits, mindset shifts, and self-care practices that keep her looking and feeling her best—inside and out.

Her journey is a reminder that aging well isn’t just about products or treatments—it’s about perseverance, intentional living, and caring for yourself on every level.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Kristen’s story and career path in the aesthetics industry
• How surviving childhood cancer shaped her approach to wellness
• What aging well really means in 2025
• Her ride-or-die SkinBetter products + professional recommendations
• Lifestyle habits that make a visible difference
• The in-office treatments she loves most
• Her best advice for aging from the inside out

📧 Connect with Kristen: kristen.young@skinbetter.com

💻 Shop SkinBetter & Learn More: here

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Dose Daily
• Brez Flow
• Trip Drinks
• ARMRA Vine Watermelon Travel Sticks
• Chobani Extra Creamy Oatmilk
• Amazon Favorite

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

Instagram is flooded with trendy facials and flashy devices, but do they really serve your skin? In this episode, Nicole Goldsmith, founder of Parallel Skin Spa and a Reiki Master, breaks down why less is often more when it comes to skincare. She shares how blending energy work, sound healing, and mindful touch transforms the facial experience from overwhelming to restorative. Discover why your skin needs safety and calm over “fixing” — and how true results come from trust, intention, and personalized care.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

How Instagram trends have shifted perceptions about what a good facial should be
Why many clients come in with over-treated, inflamed, and sensitized skin
Nicole’s unique approach combining licensed esthetician skills with Reiki and sound bowl healing
The importance of slowness, grounding, and creating space for skin and nervous system to breathe
Why your skin doesn’t need more devices—it needs to feel safe to truly heal
What first-time clients actually need: trust, intention, and customized treatment plans
Rewriting the narrative from “more = better” to long-term skin regulation and wellness
How hands-on touch and the right products create lasting, meaningful change
💫 About Nicole Goldsmith:
Nicole Goldsmith is the Founder and Owner of Parallel Skin Spa in Massachusetts. With over 15 years in the wellness industry and 10 years as a licensed esthetician, Nicole blends clinical skincare expertise with Reiki mastery and sound bowl healing. Her approach focuses on holistic balance, mindful rituals, and helping clients feel truly safe in their skin.

🔗 Connect with Nicole:
Instagram: @parallel_skinspa
Book a Facial: Vagaro Booking
Linktree: Parallel Skin Spa Linktree

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

In this soulful episode, we’re joined by Chrissy Lewis—licensed esthetician of 20 years, skin health educator, and founder of The SD Facialist—for a conversation about beauty, healing, and simplicity. After navigating breast cancer, Chrissy’s skincare philosophy transformed. She now blends clinical treatments with soul-centered rituals, guiding others to reconnect with their skin and their sense of self. We dive into intuition, boundaries, continued education, and the power of doing less—with more intention.

Topics We Cover:

• Chrissy’s journey through breast cancer and how it reshaped her view of beauty, health, and self-worth
• Her minimalist, calming approach to skincare and why simplicity supports clarity
• The magic behind her signature treatments: energy work, sculpting massage, and intention
• Making the shift from chasing perfection to embracing presence in radiant skin
• Deep dives into burnout, boundaries, and staying true in a high-demand industry
• Insights for new estheticians: retreats, continued education, and soulful growth
• Chrissy’s favorite skincare products, rituals, and tools that nourish from the inside out
• Importance of ongoing learning—to grow, evolve, and serve with purpose
• Rapid-fire fun: Chrissy’s go-to self-care routines, favorite scents, and daily habits

💫 About Chrissy Lewis:

Chrissy Lewis is a licensed esthetician of two decades, skin health educator, and the founder of The SD Facialist, a San Diego studio rooted in ritual, results, and real care. Known for her sculpting facials and clinical‑meets‑mindfulness approach, she blends science-backed treatments with soulful intention—helping clients reconnect with their skin and their sense of self.

Her breast cancer journey deepened her understanding of beauty as presence, not perfection. Chrissy now treats skincare as an act of self-respect, guiding others to slow down, listen inward, and allow their skin to reflect inner well-being.

Off the clock, you’ll find her tending to her three dogs, creating ASMR garden moments, and lighting the way for others to rediscover their inner glow.

🔗 Connect with Chrissy & Book a Facial:

• Instagram: @sdfacialist
• Website & Services: www.sdfacialist.com
• Book a Facial or Shop her Offerings: SD Facialist on Fresha

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

✨ Episode Description (Short):

In this episode, we sit down with Carolyn Alsalehi—Licensed Esthetician, Acne Specialist, and founder of The Complexion Club in San Diego—for a powerful conversation about healing acne from the inside out. Carolyn blends science and soul in her work, offering a truly holistic lens on skincare, functional nutrition, and clean living. Whether you're struggling with breakouts or looking to support your skin on a deeper level, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss.

📝 Podcast Show Notes:

In this episode, we cover:

• Carolyn’s personal journey with acne and what inspired her to specialize in skin healing
• Why acne is a symptom—not the root cause—and how internal healing plays a role
• How Carolyn integrates functional nutrition and holistic health into her work
• Why clean, non-toxic living matters for your skin (and your life)
• The gut-skin-hormone connection and practical ways to support balance
• What to look for in skincare products when healing acne
• Myths vs. truths in the clean beauty space
• Carolyn’s favorite rituals and healing tools
• Why a slower, more sustainable approach leads to real results
• The emotional side of acne and what she wishes more people understood
• How to stay consistent and grounded on your skin healing journey

💫 About Carolyn:

Carolyn Alsalehi is a Licensed Esthetician and Acne Specialist based in San Diego, CA. She’s the founder of The Complexion Club, where skincare goes beyond the surface—offering intentional, results-driven treatments rooted in both science and soul. Known for blending deep skin knowledge with an intuitive, personalized approach, Carolyn supports clients in healing both their skin and overall wellness. She is currently expanding her expertise into functional nutrition and holistic health to serve her clients even more deeply.

🛍️ Carolyn’s Current Favorite Products:

Daily Wellness Essentials:

• 💧 Electrolyte Packets
• 💦 Liquid Electrolytes
• 🥤 40 oz BrüMate Tumbler
• 🥤 40 oz Simple Modern Tumbler
• 🍵 Premium-Grade Matcha for Lattes

Go-To Skincare Favorites:

• 🧼 PCA Daily Cleansing Oil
• 💉 PCA ExLinea Peptide Pro Serum
• 💧 PCA Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum
• ✨ Face Reality Mandelic Serum

🔗 Connect with Carolyn:

• Website: www.thecomplexionclub.com
• Book a Virtual or In-Person Acne Consultation: www.thecomplexionclub.com/booking
• Instagram: @thecomplexionclub
• Shop Her Favorites: ShopMy

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

In this glow-filled episode of Unwritten Beauty Talks, Katarina sits down with Kelli Fuller— esthetician and owner of Spa Central—for a deep dive into what it really takes to age well, support your skin long-term, and achieve lasting radiance.

We unpack the magic of liquid microneedling with Beyond Miracles, Kelli’s go-to method for skin rejuvenation with zero downtime. She shares why facial massage is non-negotiable in her treatment room, how it supports lymphatic flow, lifting, and that signature glow.

You’ll hear our favorite treatments for aging well (not anti-aging), what clients often get wrong about skin rejuvenation, and simple skin rituals you can start today to support your skin for the long haul.

This episode is full of real, grounded skincare wisdom from two estheticians who are in the treatment room every day—and we’re not holding back.

💫 What We Cover:

• The power of liquid microneedling using Beyond Miracles
• Why facial massage is foundational for glow and lift
• The difference between aging well vs. anti-aging
• Real results we’ve seen in the treatment room
• Client misconceptions about rejuvenation and glow
• Simple skin tips you can start using today

📲 Connect with Kelli Fuller:

Instagram: @spacentral
Spa Website: spacentral.com

Let me know if you'd like a shorter version for your episode thumbnail, Instagram, or Spotify preview!

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

Episode Title: Sunscreen Isn’t the Problem—It’s the Protection

Hosted by: Katarina Forster, Master Aesthetician & Founder of Your Honest Glow
Episode Type: Solo | Skincare Education | Clean Beauty

✨ In This Episode:

In today’s solo deep dive, I’m busting myths and sharing the truth about sunscreen. We’re covering:

• What SPF really means (and what it protects you from)
• UVA vs. UVB vs. blue light — and why tinted SPF matters
• Vitamin D vs. sun protection — the truth you need to hear
• Why your makeup isn’t giving you full SPF coverage
• The real reason the sun doesn’t “clear” your acne
• How much sunscreen to use, how to reapply, and how to layer with makeup
• Clean vs. “toxic” sunscreen ingredients — what to avoid and what’s safe
• The stat that changed everything: 88% of aging is caused by the sun

If you’re overwhelmed by SPF options, confused about reapplying, or trying to go clean without compromising your glow—this episode is for you.

🔆 My Current Favorite Sunscreen Picks:

All of these are broad-spectrum, high-performing, and safe for daily use—even for sensitive or post-treatment skin.

🌤️ SkinBetter Science (must sign up to shop professional line)

• ✨ Tone Smart SPF 75 Compact – Tinted, mineral-based, great for blue light
  Shop here
• 🧴 Tone Smart SPF 68 Lotion – Lightweight tint, ideal for daily wear
  Shop here
• 💧 Sheer SPF 70 Stick – Invisible, portable, easy reapplication
  Shop here
• 🕊️ Sheer SPF 56 Compact – Untinted, elegant finish, mineral-based
  Shop here

👉 Sign up to shop SkinBetter: skinbetter.pro//YourHonestGlow

🧬 Pavise Dynamic Age Defense SPF

• Luxury mineral sunscreen meets DNA repair + antioxidant defense
• Non-nano zinc, blue light protection, pigment-safe
• Ideal for aging skin, melasma, or barrier support
  Shop Pavise here

💡 Quick Reminders from Today’s Episode:

• Sunscreen does NOT cause vitamin D deficiency
• Blue light protection matters—especially for pigment-prone skin
• Your makeup isn’t enough SPF unless you're wearing a LOT
• Reapply every 2 hours or after sweating/swimming
• Avoid: oxybenzone, octinoxate, heavy fragrance, parabens
• Safe bets: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxides (in tinted SPFs)

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Website: yourhonestglow.com
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms

If you loved this ep

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

In this episode, Katarina Forster delves into the intricate relationship between emotional well-being and skin health, emphasizing the importance of building lasting relationships with clients. She shares her journey as an esthetician, highlighting the significance of personalized care and the emotional connections formed with clients. The conversation explores the holistic approach to skincare, focusing on healing from the inside out, and the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving field of aesthetics.

Takeaways

Healing the skin involves emotional support and understanding.
Building long-term relationships with clients is essential.
Showing genuine care leads to better client retention.
Skin health is a reflection of internal well-being.
Customized treatments yield better results than quick fixes.
Reducing inflammation is crucial for skin healing.
Continuous education is vital for estheticians.
Creating unique experiences enhances client satisfaction.
Listening to clients' needs fosters trust and loyalty.
Adaptability in treatment protocols is key to success.

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.

Send a text

Guest: Katie Boyd | Author of Ambitchious, Host of the Ambitchious Podcast

Episode Summary:
In this soul-stirring episode, Katarina Forster is joined by wellness powerhouse Katie Boyd for an honest conversation about what it really means to live authentically, create from abundance, and value yourself beyond what you do.

Together, they unpack the deep societal conditioning that ties women’s worth to productivity and overachievement—often at the cost of our health, joy, and relationships. Katie shares the burnout she sees in women across all walks of life, and how setting boundaries, trusting the universe, and embracing your feminine energy are keys to sustainable success.

Whether you’re a beauty pro, healer, entrepreneur, or navigating your own self-growth journey, this conversation will inspire you to protect your time, honor your energy, and let go of burnout as a badge of honor.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Your self-worth is not tied to productivity.
• Burnout stems from overgiving and neglecting your own needs.
• Boundaries protect your energy and are non-negotiable for mental health.
• Daily rituals and joy-filled moments help prevent resentment and exhaustion.
• Balancing masculine & feminine energies creates harmony and magnetism.
• Attracting aligned clients starts with embodying your own worth.
• Childhood trauma can shape how we trust—and who we attract.
• Relationships serve as mirrors for healing and growth.
• Wealth is about freedom, not just finances.
• Self-care is not selfish; it’s a requirement to serve powerfully.
• Living authentically means honoring your values, not people-pleasing.
• Letting go of societal pressure opens up space for alignment and creativity.
• You deserve to create from a place of flow, not force.

✨ Listen in as Katie and Katarina explore:

• Redefining success and worth as women
• Why burnout isn’t a badge of honor
• How to call in aligned clients and relationships
• Embracing divine feminine energy in life and business
• What it means to create with purpose and trust the universe
• The link between childhood wounds and adult identity
• How to embody your most authentic, abundant self

🔗 Resources + Links:

• 💻 Katie’s Website: www.kbmfc.com
• 📚 Ambitchious Book: Get the Book
• 🎧 Ambitchious Podcast: Listen on Apple
• 📲 Katie’s Wellness App: Explore the App
• 📸 Katie on Instagram: @KatieBoydAmbitchious

🎙 Connect with Katarina:

• 💻 Website: yourhonestglow.com
• 📸 Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician

📲 Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @your.master.aesthetician
• Jacksonville Florida Spa: @your.honest.glow
• Website: yourhonestglow.com (code UNWRITTEN for 10% off)
• Podcast: Unwritten Beauty Talks – available on Spotify, Apple, and all platforms
• If you are a professional and wanting to carry factor five skincare use code katarina20 for 20% off.