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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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