In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know the fabulous makeup artist Joy Adenuga.Joy tells me how with the support of her husband and combining evening classes with her day job she finally set out on the career path that she was always meant to follow....makeup artistry.We talk about the challenges she has faced in her career and why she gets so much out of bridal makeup. She also tells me about her business and how launching a makeup brush range during the pandemic has kept her going.Finally we focus in on some of the products that she swears by including an incredibly glowy face balm that I've ordered already :0)Joy really does live up to her name and I found her energy, vibrancy and tenacity incredibly inspiring.

In this episode I talk to author ("Am I Ugly" and "The Joy of Being Selfish"), body positivity campaigner, five-board accredited Life Coach and fellow podcaster (In All Honesty) Michelle Elman. Michelle is perhaps best known for her campaign Scarred Not Scared and the moment when she wore a bikini and showed the world her many scars, making the statement that your scars don't have to define you. She also delivered a hugely popular Ted X talk called "Have You Hated Your Body Enough Today?"During the episode we talk about the moment that Michelle decided that enough was enough and that it was time to stand up for herself and put some boundaries in place in her relationships. We chat about the importance of boundaries and expecting to be treated well by other people and what to do when we're not treated as we should be. We also chat about body positivity, confidence and so much more.Michelle is an incredibly empowering woman who teaches us that we need to expect more in our lives and should never just sit back and accept the status quo. She shows us that it is possible to find the strength to change how we perceive ourselves and how others treat us.

As it was National Fragrance Day on Sunday I’ve decided to swap My Beauty Habits for Episode 2 of On the Scent with Suzy Nightingale. (MBH will be back next week).If you haven’t heard episode one then you’re in for a real treat. Suzy is a fragrance expert who describes scent like no one I’ve ever met. During the episode we chat about some of the most exciting and incredible fragrances on the market and Suzy also does a fragrance prescription service, answering all of the fragrance dilemmas that you’ve been sending us via Instagram (@outspokenbeautynicola / @fragrantmaven).As promised, here are all the fragrances that we discuss during the episode:To the Fairest, Cécile @tothefairestlondonSarah Jessica Parker, Lovely @sarahjessicaparkerNarcisso Rodriguez, For Her (pink bottle, original) @narcisso_rodriguezContradictions in ILK, Devious @ilkperfumeMiller Harris, L’air de Rien (possibly discontinued) @millerharrisJovoy, Rose Millisime @jovoymayfairStella McCartney, Stella @stellamccartneyPaul Smith, Rose @paulsmithdesignRuth Mastenbroek, Fire Dance @ruthmastenbroekperfumeMoschino, Toy Boy @moschinoCacharel, Noa @cacharelparfumsBeauFort London, Tonnerre @beaufortlondonDSquared2, Green Wood @dsquared2SJP, Stash @sarahjessicaparkerJuliette Has a Gun, Not a Perfume @juliettehasagunClean Reserve, Skin @cleanbeauty_collectiveKayali, Musk 12 @kayaliEtat Libre D’Orange Secretions Magnifique @etatlibredorangeVines House Parfum, Signature Story @vineshouseparfumBedeaux, Chienoir @bedeauxx

Back by popular demand is skin guru and all round wonder woman Jennifer Rock.Jenn who is the founder of The Skin Nerd Network and one of my fav brands Skingredients is here to answer all of your skin related questions.I love Jenn for her experience, knowledge and no BS advice and I guarantee you'll leave the episode equipped with some great information and skincare inspiration.

In this episode I get to know the incredible celebrity "inner" facialist, Nichola Joss.Nichola is loved by the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Hilary Swank, Gisele Bundchen and Gwyneth Paltrow and is renowned for her inner facial which sees her massaging and sculpting from the inside of your mouth. She is also seen by many as something of a health and wellbeing guru and if you follow her on Instagram you'll see that she is about so much more than skin.During the episode Nichola shares so much of the wisdom that she is renowned and loved for. She is also beautifully outspoken and unafraid to express her opinions which I am as you know a huge fan of!

This is such an important episode whether like me you're aware that perimenopause could strike at any time or you're experiencing the menopause right now. Actually, I also think this is important even if you're in your twenties as knowledge is power and when it comes to the menopause many of us are anything but empowered.In the episode I'm joined by Dr Louise Newson who is a GP and Menopause Specialist. Louise is on a mission to educate us about what is available to us once we are peri menopausal/menopausal and also how to get the right treatment from our Drs.Many women go to their GPs feeling depressed or anxious due to fluctuating hormones and Dr Louise explains how many of us are prescribed anti-depressants which is anything but helpful. We also chat about HRT and how more of us can take it than we realise (we just need to be prescribed the right one), supplements and keeping strong and vital as we age. Dr Louise's website is an absolute fountain of knowledge and is well worth checking out after the episode. You can find her at menopausedoctor.co.uk.As well as my interview with Louise I also have a list of lovely recommendations for you at the end of the episode 2 fabulous perfumes, a great hair product for texture and some gorgeous makeup bits. Enjoy! xx

In this episode I chat to the fabulous Sandra Sallin. Sandra, who describes herself as an "80 year old blogger with too many lipsticks" is utterly passionate about beauty and makeup as well as being a fantastic artist and author of the blog apartfrommyart.com. Sandra's blog makes for addictive and compelling reading. She's been on so many adventures in her life including meeting Picasso but that's another story for another time.During our chat Sandra reveals how she became fascinated by online makeup tutorials and how much she could learn from them. Every time that the likes of Hannah Martin, Lisa Potter Dixon and Pixiwoo did tutorials for mature skin, Sandra would take note and slowly but surely mastered the art of applying makeup that made her feel fabulous.As well as talking about her makeup edication, we chat about older women and beauty, how no one should feel bad about wrinkles and why the beauty industry needs to speak to women above 50 because they have money to spend and don't want to be cast aside.Sandra also gives a huge amount of brilliant product recommendations.It was an utter joy to get to know Sandra and I hope she makes you feel as good as she did me xx

*This is a special episode to celebrate International Women's Day in partnership with L'Occitane *In this episode I learn the story behind a brand that is really very special to me. When I was 20 and living in Paris, my Mum and I discovered L'Occitane and were hooked. It was the beginning of a twenty odd year relationship that has seen us gifting each other countless products and whooping with excitement when it finally came over to the UK.What Mum and I have never known is the story behind L'Occitane and how right from its fledgling days, it was a brand that truly cared about both the environment and empowering women.During the episode I get to know the amazing Alia Hawa who is the MD for L'Occitane UK and Ireland. She tells me about her journey with L'Occitane and the incredible and inspirational story of its founder Olivier Baussan.Later in the episode we hear from some of The Outspoken Panellists who have been trialling the cult L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream. As ever they give their no holes barred, honest reviews of the product.Finally, Mummy Bonn joins me to chat briefly about our memories of L'Occitane.This is a lovely episode that celebrates women and the good that the beauty industry can do. If you'd like 10% off at L'Occitane then you can use the code OUTSPOKEN10 until the end of March 2021 xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I chat to the fabulous Becki Murray who is the Beauty Editor at Harpers Bazaar and Town and Country Magazine.Becki is fascinated by cosmetic science to the point where she is actually studying it and this love is reflected in the beauty products and brands that she recommends during the episode. As well as recommendations, Becki chats about the power of makeup, how rosacea affects her beauty choices and her journey to becoming a beauty editor.I love Becki for her constant quest for knowledge and the extensive research she puts into products before she recommends them. There's a feeling that she really has the consumer's back. She's a true force for good in the beauty industry and I loved recording this episode with her.You can find Becki on Instagram @beckimurray_ where she does a great IGTV series called #Beautyful Chemistry and gives fabulous product recommendations. Definitely worth a follow!

In this episode I get to chat to the amazing Nikki Wolff aka Nikki Makeup.Nikki is one of the world's most successful makeup artists whose art has adorned the faces of everyone from Kim Kardashian to Dua Lipa to Rosie Huntington-Whitelely.During the episode we chat about how her passion for makeup artistry began at the age of six and that as she got older she 100% knew it was the career for her. Nikki tells me why she shunned the traditional route of being a makeup assistant and how she forged a career path that has seen her become one of the world's best loved makeup artists.We also have a good old natter about how it has felt for her giving birth during the pandemic and Nikki also shares some of her very best beauty products with makeup recommendations galore.Nikki is a strong, down to earth and fabulous woman who shows that when you really want something you can make it happen. I loved every minute of our chat.

*This episode is part of my ongoing partnership with Curate Beauty. Together we're working hard to help you discover the very best small indie beauty brands*If you feel like you always buy your Mum the same sort of thing for Mother's Day and you want to get her something truly special and original with the added bonus that you will be supporting a small, independent brand then this is the episode for you.The amazing Sam Freedman, co-founder of Curate Beauty has done what she does best and curated a list of stunning gift ideas for us. From candles to skincare to scented oils and silk pillow cases to haircare she has all bases covered and this is a really great opportunity to discover some fabulous new beauty brands that you and your Mum can cherish together.As promised, I'm adding some promo codes for you and I so hope you enjoy getting to know these brands.Nereus London: Use code CURATE20 for 20% off (https://nereus.uk/)Laid: Use code OUTSPOKEN20 for 20% off (https://www.thelaidclub.com/shop)The Muses: Code OUTSPOKEN20 for 20% off (https://www.themuseslondon.co.uk/)BAO: Code Outspoken for 15% off (https://www.baoskincare.co.uk/)Other brands mentioned:Clockface Beauty (https://clockfacebeauty.com/)Connock London (https://www.connocklondon.co.uk/)Centred (https://www.wearecentred.com/)

*This episode is in partnership with Ren Clean Skincare*In this thought provoking episode I get to know the amazing David Delport who is the Global Ambassador for Ren Clean Skincare. David has worked with a number of beauty brands, but as you'll hear, when he found Ren it was the start of a love affair that has lasted for 13 years and counting. David, who is passionate about the environment and sustainability found a kindred spirit in Ren and during the episode he not only tells us about the incredible and pioneering work that REN are doing in this field (they are going to be zero waste by the end of 2021) but also gives us tips about the little things that we can do to help our planet.David and I share a real passion for REN and as well as chatting through how the brand is leading the way in sustainability, we chat through some of our favourite products and how they make us feel.This episode is for a me a really important one. As consumers we're becoming more and more aware of the effect our actions are having on the planet and how crucial it is that we act now. Brands like Ren are showing that it it is possible to enjoy luxury beauty product whilst helping the environment and not only are they paving the way for other beauty brands, but for the likes of me and you as well. Enjoy xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know New York Times and International best-selling author Jennifer Nivens. Jen is perhaps best known for her book "All The Bright Places" which was turned into a movie for Netflix and during the podcast we chat about that as well as her newest (and equally brilliant). novel Breathless.Jen also gives us an insight into her relationship and how her books mirror many aspects of her personal life. She also chats about her glamorous mother and we delve into what beauty means to her and the part that it plays in her life. If that wasn't enough, we somehow get onto the subject of losing our virginity and vibrators. Perhaps one to save for when the kids are tucked up in bed ;0)Jen is incredibly funny and honest and I felt like I'd known her for years even though this was our first time chatting. I thoroughly recommend Jen's books and Instagram page @Jenniferniven.

Get ready fragrance lovers! This episode is going to blow your sense of smell.Suzy Nightingale is one of the UK's leading fragrance journalists and experts and she joins me for a true journey of scent discovery.Whether you want to find a perfume to give you confidence/uplift you/make you feel cosy or sensual, there's something for you in this episode and the way that Suzy describes fragrance is pure poetry.Welcome to the first episode of "On The Scent "- it's simply scensational! xxPerfumes mentioned:Carine Roitfeld Kar-waiJeroboam UNUEJuliette Has a Gun Lipstick Fever4711 Cologne Atelier Cologne Orange Sanguine Ruth Mastenbroek DagianLe Lion de ChanelFrederic Malle Portrait of a LadyPaul Schutze Tears of ErosTom Daxon Iridium 71%Le Couvent Maison de Parfum Cologne of the Missions Chopard CasmirSarah Baker Bascule

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I catch up with lovely Lisa Snowdon. Lisa and I used to work for the same radio company and bonded over our early starts and mutual love of beauty! (I remember constantly being in awe of how effortlessly glamorous she was at 6am.)These days we've both put our radio days behind us and Lisa is busy doing all sorts of brilliant projects including a regular fashion slot on This Morning and producing excellent beauty and wellbeing content via her own channels.During the episode Lisa shares so many of her tips, tricks, rituals and habits. We cover everything from skincare to showers to the daily routines that keep Lisa feeling happy and grounded. What I love about Lisa is that she's has always had a real passion for sharing beauty and wellbeing tips and she talks about them with an energy that is catching. If you're feeling a bit lacklustre at the moment you're going to love this. Lisa will put a spring in your step :0)

In this episode I have the honour of getting to know the iconic makeup artist Barbara Daly.Barbara was the first makeup artist to become a star in her own right and her story is one of tenacity and never taking no for an answer.Barbara takes us with her on her journey from dreaming of doing Hollywood movie makeup to working with the BBC, creating the makeup for Stanley Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange" and how it felt to do Princess Diana's wedding makeup.Barbara's story had me gripped and I loved every second of this interview. Get ready to meet one of the greats!

*I know that this would usually be an episode of "My Beauty Habits" but I wanted to get this out as soon as possible as I think it's really relevant at the moment.*In this episode I get to know Immunologist Dr Jenna Macciochi. Jenna has been studying the immune system for over 20 years and specialises in understanding how lifestyle and nutrition interact with the immune system in health and disease. She has made it her mission to demystify the science behind our health and share her knowledge of how we can maintain good health.During the episode we chat about Jenna's views on supplements and what we should and shouldn't be taking. Jenna also has loads of advice about the types of things we should be eating, our microbiomes, things we can do on an every day basis to protect our immune systems and also tips for how we can help ourselves if we get ill. We also chat about the role that exercise can play and the effect of stress on our health and how to deal with it plus so much more!Dr Jenna really inspired me to take more care of my everyday health both in the short and long term and I can't wait for you to hear her words of wisdom. If you find this episode of interest and you want to explore Dr Jenna's research further then I recommend her brilliant book Immunity: The Science Of Staying Well (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Immunity-Science-Dr-Jenna-Macciochi-ebook/dp/B07XZ7W8FK). You can find more tips from Dr Jenna on her Instagram Page @dr_jenna_macciochi.

In this episode I get to know the award-winning beauty, health and lifestyle journalist Ingeborg Van Lotringen. Ingeborg, who was Cosmpolitan UK's Beauty Director for 14 years, is loved for her no BS journalism. She's an inquisitive writer who isn't afraid to ask difficult questions and tell things as they are. No-where is this more obvious than in her brilliant book ‘Great skin – Secrets The Beauty Industry Doesn’t Tell You’ which was recommended to me by Sherna Malone. The minute I read it, I knew I had to interview Ingeborg. She was a woman after my own heart.In this episode we talk about the good and bad things about the beauty industry, brands and products that Ingeborg loves, why PHAs are great for our skin and why brands need to be more transparent about products. We also discuss natural and synthetic beauty and why both can go hand in hand.I loved chatting to Ingeborg...she's a well informed journalist with unquestionable integrity and she's not afraid to ask hard questions to fight the consumer's cause.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know the amazing Dame Maureen Lipman.We chat about so much including how she is getting through lockdown, how she feels about her appearance, what ageing means to her, the things that she does on a daily basis that make her feel good and why she prides herself on being really low maintenance.Maureen and I also have a great catch up about her performance of Michael Sherman's "Rose" which is being released on SKY Arts on 27th January to coincide with Holocaust Memorial Day. Maureen chats about what it was like to do this one woman production in the midst of a pandemic and how much it has meant to her.It was an honour and such a pleasure to chat to Dame Maureen and I can't wait for you to hear this intimate and honest chat.

* This episode is in partnership with Curate Beauty. Together we're aiming to help put small, independent brands on the map*In this episode I meet entrepreneur and mother of 4 Joy Isaacs. Joy has been fascinated by the power of colloidal silver since she was a child and after suffering with an infected wound that was treated with the help of dressings containing silver, she decided it was time to create a skincare brand that harnessed its power. (It not only has great healing properties but is also antimicrobial so can be very helpful in the treatment of acne.)After a great deal of work and research Joy founded Argentum, a luxury skincare brand that is unlike any I have ever come across. It's part really great science, part unexpected quirkiness (which I love) and part pure luxury.During the episode we hear Joy's fascinating story and get to know what it takes to build a luxury skincare brand that stands out from the rest. We also hear from the Outspoken Beauty Panellists who have been trying the Argentum Potion Infinie for more than a month. They give their honest thoughts on the product and brand itself. (To be a part of the panel please DM me on Insta @Outspokenbeautynicola).I hope you enjoy getting to know Joy and Argentum as much as I have xx

In this episode I chat to Nutritional Therapist, author and all round inspiring lady Madeleine Shaw. Madeleine doesn't only share her beauty habits but also her wellbeing, feelgood and health habits. Her advice has definitely helped me since doing the interview and I hope it does the same for you.From slotting in time for yoga and movement to great food and drink habits to supplements to her favourite beauty products, Madeleine's approach to life is a real inspiration. She also has some great words of wisdom regarding taking care of our mental wellbeing as well as physical.So if you're feeling a bit fed up at the moment and you need some down to earth and totally achievable ideas to get you out of your funk, I have a feeling that this episode is going to really help you.Madeleine also has a podcast which is brimming with great expert advice particularly for mums. Here's the link: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/get-your-glow-back/id1450163491

In this episode I have the pleasure of chatting to a true industry icon. Funmi Fetto is a Contributing Editor at British Vogue, The Beauty Director at The Observer Magazine and the author of the fabulous book Palette.During the episode Funmi shares her career story, the details of her complicated relationship with the beauty industry and why a lack of inclusivity in certain beauty brands can be described in no other way but racist. We also celebrate what we love about beauty and the industry and Funmi shares some great product recommendations too.Funmi is a strong, talented woman and I loved getting to know her. I also thoroughly recommend her own beauty podcast which is called The On Reflection Beauty Podcast and can be found here: https://orbpodcast.com/.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits, entrepreneur Mona Kattan joins me from her Dubai home for a good old chin-wag about the important role that fragrance plays in her life, how she has handled pandemic life and the wellbeing tips that help her feel balanced and happy. Mona is the fragrance guru at Huda Beauty (which she co-founded and where she is Global President) and her long-held passion and knowledge of all things scent led her to launch luxury fragrance brand Kayali with sister Huda in 2018.Mona talks about the power of fragrance to change the way we feel, how she wears her own fragrances and the importance of having the confidence to layer scents.I loved interviewing Mona and really enjoyed her honesty and openness. She has also inpired me to play around with my fragrances a lot more.

In this episode in partnership with toothpaste brand LA Pacific I get to meet a woman who is making it her mission to revolutionise the toothcare industry. Entrepreneur and all round superwoman Hannah Moore found out the hard way how bad tooth whitening kits and products can be. After using them in her teens she was left with sensitive teeth and compromised enamel.Years later and after an illness that led her to completely re-evaluate her health, she joined forces with a dental scientist and they created LA Pacific, an incredible toothpaste range that uses natural enzymes to whiten teeth and is not only great if your teeth are sensitive, but is really good for general oral health.During the episode we chat about Hannah's "aha" moment, why she is so passionate about the health of our teeth and a bit about the science behind her brand. After that, two of the Outspoken Panellists, Michelle and Kirsty, give their honest views on the toothpaste and what it is doing for their teeth.I loved getting to know Hannah and her brand. She is an example of a truly passionate and authentic small business owner who is making a change in a huge and somewhat overwhelming industry.

So happy to have Dr Sam Bunting back on the podcast. This time we're taking the focus off our faces and onto our bodies. Sam has loads of tips for body skin health and the simple steps we can take to keep our skin barriers healthy, happy and hydrated.From the type of products we should be using in the shower to Sam's own shower ritual (which cracks me up), to the very best moisturisers (including Sam's own Flawless Body Therapy which is incredible), Sam has some fantastic tips and hints for us.I also chat through my favourite perfume of the moment and my absolute favourite hand cream.This is a lovely episode with one of my favourite guests. Enjoy! xx

As I write this we're back in lockdown and I thought that the perfect guest to uplift us and offer a bit of guidance would be Katie Brindle.Katie's last episode about the benefits of the Chinese approach to medicine and Gua Sha was incredibly popular and in this episode she delves further into small steps that we can take to really improve our wellbeing and energy at a time when we definitely need it.Join Katie as she talks about the power of laughter, her daily wellness routine and why the secrets to living a healthy life don't need to be as taxing as you'd think.If you fancy joining Katy for her daily Chi-Gong Class, make sure you give her a follow on Instagram @katie_brindle.

Happy New Year Outspoken Beauties. In this the first episode of the year, I'm joined by the brilliant Francesca Geens who is here to teach us how to increase our levels of happiness in simple and attainable ways. Francesca, who is the creator of The Happy Self Journal, has studied the science of happiness extensively. You'll be surprised by how simple and doable her tips are and how little changes can make a big difference in our lives.So let's forget the fad diets that we'll give up in two weeks and make it our New Year's resolution to work on our happiness. :0)

In this episode I have a festive catch up with Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt. Having interviewed Kimberly 8 years ago it was lovely to see much how things have changed for her. Kimberly is now a mother of 3 and was about to do a Pussycat Dolls Tour when Covid arrived.We talk about what Kimberly has been up to during this crazy year, how she's planning on making this Christmas really special for her family and why sustainability is so important to her. Kimberly also talks through what she does for her wellbeing and why dancing is brilliant for everyone!It was lovely to have a Christmassy chat with Kimberly. Enjoy it xxx

In this episode I look back at the products and brands that have really stood out to me this year and tell you why. I've got a great mixture of skincare, makeup, body products and there's even some intimate health brands in there too. There have been many more things that I've absolutely loved and I'm sure I've forgotten loads but these are the ones that I use time and time again and that I think are worth every penny.In the list is my favourite candle brand, La Montana. I interview Cassandra who is their co-founder to hear the beautiful story behind the brand and then get #TheOutspokenPanel involved who have been trialling the La Montana fragrances and who give their honest unfiltered reviews.Cassandra and Jonathan are very kindly giving us 20% off all La Montana products until 18th December (2020). Just go to lamontana.co.uk and use code outspoken.

In this episode I get to know the wonderful Fiona Toomey who is the founder of Nessa Organics who are the makers of my beloved Vagina Victory Oil.After talking about why Fiona launched Nessa, we have a really great chat about everything from pregnancy to menopause to intimate health to whether we should make our husbands get the snip or not!! (There is lots of laughter)Fiona is a wonderfully open and warm person and no conversation is off limits with her. I am passionate about her brand, the love that has gone into it and the positive messages that she spreads.If you fancy exploring Fiona's brand (I recommend the nipple balm, scar ointment and victory oil), then just head to nessaorganics.com and use code outspokenbeautynicola for 15% off.Enjoy :0)

In this episode in partnership with my partners in crime Curate Beauty, founder Sam and I get together to do the ultimate small, independent beauty brand Christmas gift countdown. (Try saying that with a mouthful of mince pie). I’ve chatted to so many people who have said that they want to support small businesses this year and each and every one of the brands mentioned is truly as special as it is small.As promised, I’m adding all the promo codes here in the notes so that if you are tempted, you can also get a bit of money off.For 15% off the Curate beauty X Urban Retreat store use code OUTSPOKEN15 https://www.urbanretreat.co.uk/curate/exclusive-to-urban-retreatOTOSelection of OTO products available at Urban Retreat, which can be bought at a 15% discount with OUTSPOKEN15 discount code. MONPURESet and individual products available at Urban Retreat which can be bought at a 15% discount with OUTSPOKEN15 discount code. SOFIA LATIF 15% discount code available on sofialatif.com only.Code: OUTSPOKEN15 - Valid on everything on their website until 31st DecemberSKIN SAPIENS All Skin Sapiens products are also available at Urban Retreat, which can be bought at a 15% discount with OUTSPOKEN15 discount code.VIRGINIA STONEhttps://virginiastone.com/£50.00 off all orders with code VSXCURATE SAINT FRAGRANCELate Night Fig Candle, £40 https://www.saintfragrance.com/shop3 for 2 discount - Buy 3 full price candles and receive one of the candles for free. Code: OUTSPOKEN3FOR2 - Valid until 31st December BY JOY ADENUGAwww.byjoyadenuga.comDiscount 25% off valid until 23rd DecemberCode: Outspoken FYG Wellbeing Pod, £75.00https://fyghome.com/product/fyg-wellbeing-pod/20% discount valid until 23rd December Code: curatebeauty20 NailKind All nail polishes, £9.50 https://www.urbanretreat.co.uk/curate/shop-by-brand/nailkindAll NailKind products are also available at Urban Retreat, which can be bought at a 15% discount with OUTSPOKEN15 discount code.The Hair Oil https://thehairoil.co.uk/ £23.50 (reduced from £55.00) Five Dot BotanicsGift Wrapped Serum Set https://www.urbanretreat.co.uk/curate/p/five-dot-botanics-gift-wrapped-serum-set£56.00All Five Dot Botanics individual products and gift sets are available at Urban Retreat, which can be bought at a 15% discount with OUTSPOKEN15 discount code.

In this special episode in partnership with Floral Street Fragrances, I get to know brilliant founder Michelle Feeney. Michelle tells me her incredible story and how she went from holding some of the top jobs in the beauty industry to setting up on her own to create a sustainable fragrance brand that would be luxurious but affordable. Michelle is definitely one of those women who shows you that anything is possible at any age.After getting to know Michelle I welcome members of The Outspoken Panel to give their honest reviews of the recently launched Floral Street Scent School experience and the fragrances themselves. (My favs are Black Lotus, Chypre Sublime, Ylang Ylang Espresso and Arizona Bloom)If you fancy experiencing/gifting the Scent School or one of the fragrances then use code OB1020 for 10% off at https://floralstreet.com/

In this episode I get to know one of Britain's top perfumers, the gorgeous Azzi Glasser.Azzi is the woman behind so many of the scents that you know and love including the Bella Freud collection and the award winning Agent Provocateur perfume. She is also renowned for making personalised scents and has created bespoke fragrances for Jude Law, Kylie Minogue, Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter to name but a few.During the episode Azzi talks about fragrance and what it means to her and gives great advice about how we should go about picking our own scents. She also introduces me to her own perfume collection, The Perfumer's Story, where she makes scents to match different characteristics and believes that with the right perfume we can be whoever we want to be.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by little ray of sunshine/makeup artist extraordinaire/ This Morning beauty buff Bryony Blake.Bryony talks about her unconventional (but totally amazing) education, her love of people, her personal approach to makeup artistry and of course the products and rituals that mean the most to her. She also talks about the things that make her feel good.Bryony is an energetic, warm and bloody talented makeup artist and I loved every minute of getting to know her!

I am SO excited to publish my first episode featuring the voices of the Outspoken Panel for this special episode in partnership with the amazing Curate Beauty.The panellists have been busy trying luscious body and face oils from a brand called Booming Bob and a multi functional beauty balm from Ouli's Ointment and during the episode they give their honest views on how the products perform. During the episode I also review and chat about my experience of Organicup and a blemish product from a fascinating brand called Lue.All of these brands are small, independent and truly brilliant and have been introduced to me by Sam and Margot from Curate Beauty. This is your chance to get to know them and hopefully make some really meaningful additions to your beauty and wellbeing collection.During the podcast you'll also be given some promo codes just in case you're tempted. I'll write them here with links also:For 25% off Ouli's Ointment use code OUTSPOKEN here: https://oulis-ointment.com/For 20% off Booming Bob products use code outspoken20 here: https://boomingbob.co.uk/ (valid until the end of Jan 2021)For £10 off your first order of Lue products use code OUTSPOKEN

In this episode I chat to the brilliant aesthetican Dr David Jack who specialises in and has an exrensive knowledge of skin health and pro-ageing. He gives some brilliant tips including a total demystification of collagen, what we can do to improve our own levels and whether collagen supplements can help our skin or not.Later I catch up with founder of Merumaya, the lovely Maleka Dattu. Maleka tells me about how she is hoping to raise loads of money for Beauty Banks and Beauty Backed and how we can get involved from 1st December. If you'd like to join the podcast community then follow this link https://www.facebook.com/groups/419953838690477 to our brilliant, private Facebook Page for all things beauty and much more xx

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know the brilliant singer, actress and presenter Mica Paris. Mica and I chat about how she embraced her health and wellbeing aged 48 and never looked back. She discusses her exercise routine, the home made concoction that she's been drinking for years and that she swears keeps her healthy and she also shares her skincare routine and the makeup that makes her feel fabulous.Mica also chats about her beautiful new album Gospel which sees her going back go her musical roots and we get to hear some of her amazing song Mamma Said.I loved Mica's energy, positivity and hints and tips and can't wait for you to get to know her.

If sleep is a bit of a struggle at the moment then Dr Karina Patel is just the person to give you lots of the tools you need to improve the situation. Karina is the lead clinician of the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of London which forms part of the London Sleep Centre and in this really enlightening episode she tells me her tips and tricks for getting good quality sleep.From nasal breathing to what we should be doing in the hours leading up to bedtime to diet to whether we should read before we sleep, Karina has lots to teach us and I hope you find her advice as helpful as I have._____________________If you'd like to join the Outspoken Trialling Panel and trial products for free in return for honest reviews, DM me on Insta @OutspokenBeautyNicola and I'll send you a form. Another great way of joining the Outspoken Beauty Community is via our private Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/groups/419953838690477

In this week's episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by the total inspiration that is Lynn Ruth Miller. 87 year old Lynn Ruth is an award winning comedian, burlesque dancer and author who not only has embraced her journey into older age but has made it her mission to grab every opportunity that she's been given or created.During this uplifting episode she talks about her life, her beauty influences and how even at 87, you can still put on some makeup, wear a fabulous dress and go after the man of your dreams.This episode is one of my favourites and I just know that it will make you smile during these crazy times.If you fancy reading Lynn's brilliant book, Getting The Last Laugh: The Inspirational True Story of The World's Oldest Comedienne (which I wholeheartedly recommend) then here's the link for you: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Getting-Last-Laugh-Inspirational-Performing/dp/1527262677/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

The Outspoken Podcast is YOUR podcast and is the place where you can voice your opinions, thoughts and get your voice heard. I choose the topics based on what you tell me you'd like to hear and this week, due to popular demand we're talking about bladder weakess.During the episode I hear from Ferne McCann who is on a mission to open the bladder weakness conversation and show us how many of us suffer from it. She talks openly about her own bladder issues and how she is dealing with them.Then I hear from Annie who has suffered with bladder weakness all her life and recently had surgery to help. She voices the embarrassment she used to feel and how she hid it from even her family.If there's one thing I have taken from this episode it's how many of us suffer from this and that we should never be ashamed to open up and also seek help. It's so normal!-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you'd like to be a part the conversation make sure you join me on Instagram @OutspokenBeautyNicola and our private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/419953838690477/Also why not become a part of #TheOutspokenPanel and trial products for free in exchange for honest no-holes barred reviews. DM me or email [email protected].

* This episode is in partnership with Femfresh*I recently had a catch up with the team at Femfresh that made me very happy indeed. They are a huge brand that many women turn to and they're now putting a major focus on busting the taboos around feminine intimate health which by the very nature of their reach, will influence so many of us in a really positive way. As well as formulating products that are the right PH for our vulvas (4.5) Femfresh are making it their responsibility to educate us, empower us and get us talking openly about things that we are often too embarrassed or ashamed to even address with our best friends.In this episode I'm joined by the brilliant, straight-talking NHS Doctor Dr Frankie Jackson Spence who is also an ambassador for Femfresh. Frankie answers every question you can imagine about our vulvas from the way they look to when to get them checked to how they should smell. She also gives us her view on washing them and how if we choose to use a product we need to use one that respects the area.I learnt so much from Dr Frankie and know that you will too and I hope that you leave this episode feeling confident, empowered and far more knowledgable about your own intimate health.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by one of the UK's first ever plus size models, the fabulous Felicity Hayward.Felicity and I talk about her career, the body positivity message that she has been leading for years and how we can truly love ourselves. We then talk about the beauty products that mean the most to her and her obsession with crystals (I think she has me hooked now as well).If you want to join the Outspoken Panel and try products for free in return for honest reviews then please DM me on Insta @OutspokenBeautyNicola. Everyone's skin is different and we all deserve to be represented by the beauty industry so please get in touch whatever your age, ethnicity or skin type.

In this episode of Outspoken Beauty I'm joined by the one of the UK's top Nutritional Therapists, the lovely Amelia Freer.What I love about Amelia (who is the author of the excellent book Simply Good For You) is that she doesn't give hard to follow, fad driven advice but is just really sensible and encourages a balanced approach to eating that is realistic and helpful for someone like me who is never going to stick to eating nut cheese and slurping on celery juice. (I do not judge you if this is you, but I have the self control of a guinea pig....I have learnt that guinea pigs are totally led by their stomachs since getting two pet ones!)Anyway, this episode is a great reminder that healthy eating can be easy and more attainable than most of us might believe. Enjoy :0)

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I get to know presenter and blogger Mimi Missfit. Mimi is the host of a BBC series called Mimi on A Mission where she explores everything from sex to relationships to tech overload. I love her sense of humour and her willingness to chat openly about everything (she's a true Outspoken Beauty).After a catch up about how she got her job (it's a great story) and her new series, we get down to the nitty gritty of her favourite beauty products and habits.Mimi is fun, fabulous and full of personality...just the tonic in these strange times xx

With another lockdown around the corner lots of you have been in touch to say you need cheering up so I got in touch with Esther Coren as she always makes me laugh and somehow makes things feel a bit better.Don't ask me exactly what we talked about but I know that it made my husband giggle while he edited it and that we definitely cover books, quiet time, being "more cat"and other ways to keep as happy as possible in our crazy world.Enjoy Outspokenbeauties xx

With the news that the UK is going into another lockdown I start this episode by telling you about "The 16 Week Plan" that my husband and I have invented to help get us through the Winter. (It's not as amazing as it sounds but it may help a little).Then I welcome this episode's guest, dermatologist and star of docu-series The Bad Skin Clinic, Dr Emma Craythorne.Dr Emma and I chat about her show and then get onto my favourite topic...skin. Emma shares her beliefs about how we can achieve the healthiest skin and tells me all about the products she swears by.You can watch The Bad Skin Clinic on Quest Red and dPlay.

In this episode of My Beauty Habits I'm joined by Sarah Creal. Sarah is behind the launches of some of the most well known and respected beauty brands in the world and when she met Victoria Beckham during her partnership with Estee Lauder, the two of them hit it off so much that they decided to partner up and create Victoria Beckham Beauty.During the episode Sarah chats about her relationship with Victoria, what the two of them are trying to achieve with their brand, how lockdown is treating her and we chat of course about the beauty products that she adores including a niche perfume brand that she has fallen in love with.If you'd like to join the private Facebook Group click here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/419953838690477/ and to become a member of The Outspoken Panel and try beauty products for free in return for honest feedback DM me on Insta @OutspokenBeautyNicola xx

Welcome to The Outspoken Vulva. I like to think of this new series as a Women Only Members Club where anything goes and no conversation is off limits. In coming episodes we'll be talking about everything from orgasms to hormones to pregnancy but in this, Episode One, we're exploring female sexual empowerment with Dominatrix, sex expert and entrepreneur spectaculaire, Morrigan Hel.Morrigan and I talk about the importance of getting to know our bodies and what turns us on, how to demand pleasure in the bedroom and why we all deserve to have our sexual needs met. Morrigan also gives us into an insight into why some people choose to spend time with a Dominatrix and how her own career took shape.If there is anything you want to ask after the episode please feel free to DM me on Insta @OutspokenBeautyNicola. Morrigan can be found via the following links:https://morriganhel.comInsta: @Morriganhelhttps://murdermile.comxx