Beauty Talk Confessions with Kati

Kati Wasserman

Beauty Talk Confessions is a podcast that goes beneath the surface of the beauty industry. The stories, the struggles, the identity shifts, the healing, and the grit behind the glow.   Hosted by Kati Wasserman, esthetician, business owner, and product developer, each episode features real, raw conversations with beauty professionals, founders, healers, coaches, creators, and clients who have lived the truth behind beauty.   We talk about: •⁠  ⁠identity and reinvention •⁠  ⁠confidence, comparison, and self-worth •⁠  ⁠the emotional and unseen side of beauty work •⁠  ⁠entrepreneurship and the messy middle •⁠  ⁠aging, wellness, hormones, and internal beauty •⁠  ⁠success, failures, pivots, and the lessons that shape us   There’s no filter here, just honest conversations that remind us beauty is personal, powerful, and deeply human.   Whether you're in the industry or navigating your own relationship with beauty, Beauty Talk Confessions will make you feel seen, supported, and inspired to show up as your most authentic self.   🔗 Social Links & Where to Find Us   Podcast Website:https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions   Instagram:@beautytalkconfessions@pricklybare   TikTok:@beautytalkconfessions   Booking / Contact:pricklybare@gmail.com    

Episodes

  1. 1D AGO

    Trend Thursday - Hot or Not: Tarte Fake Freckles

    In this episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati continues Hot or Not Trend Thursdays with a hands-on review of Tarte Go With the Faux Fake Freckles. Freckles are everywhere right now, and this product has been all over the internet, so Kati puts it to the test in real time. She breaks down the packaging, pigment, application process, and overall wear while sharing honest first impressions from an esthetician’s point of view. With its unique multi point stamp design, this freckle pen promises a natural, sun kissed look without the precision or effort of traditional freckle pencils. Kati walks through how it applies, how customizable it really is, and whether it actually delivers on that effortless vibe. If you have ever thought about faux freckles but did not want anything permanent or overdone, this episode helps you decide if this trend is worth trying. In This Episode, We Cover What the Tarte Fake Freckles claim to do Shade selection and pricing First impressions of the applicator and packaging How natural the freckles actually look Application tips and learning curve Pigment payoff and blendability Kati’s final Hot or Not rating The Takeaway Some trends are all hype, but others are just fun. This one delivers a soft, natural freckle look without being heavy or fake, making it an easy way to experiment without commitment. Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessions Podcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post Hair Removal Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring 2026. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybare Website: pricklybare.com If You Loved This Episode Try the product and let Kati know what you think. Screenshot the episode, tag @beautytalkconfessions, and share your Hot or Not opinion. Leaving a rating or review helps keep these honest conversations going. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    9 min
  2. 4D AGO

    It’s About the Skin… But Not About the Skin: The Integrative Esthetician with Cindy Tusa

    In this deeply grounding episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati sits down with Cindy Tusa — former NICU nurse and founder of The White Magnolia Advanced Skincare Institute and The Integrative Esthetician.With nearly 20 years in critical-care nursing before transitioning into aesthetics, Cindy brings a perspective rarely taught in this industry — one rooted in emotional intelligence, critical thinking, nervous system awareness, and truly seeing the human behind the skin.This conversation goes far beyond protocols and product knowledge. Together, Kati and Cindy explore wound responses, subconscious programming, fear in new estheticians, and why so many providers feel insecure or overwhelmed — not because they’re incapable, but because they were never taught how to think, regulate, and connect on a deeper level.This episode is validating, expansive, and full of “oh my gosh… YES” moments. In This Episode, We Cover: Cindy’s transition from NICU nursing to owning a skincare institute What critical thinking actually looks like in the treatment room The parallels between patient care and client care Why fear, insecurity, and imposter syndrome are so common in new estheticians How checklist-only education fails both providers and clients Viewing each client as an individual — not a protocol What “It’s about the skin, but it’s not about the skin” really means How subconscious wound expressions show up as client behavior (and why it’s rarely personal) Creating a treatment room that functions as a sanctuary, not just a service space Why hands-on learning (the guinea pig program) is non-negotiable How The Integrative Esthetician helps estheticians feel safer, think deeper, and show up more confidently Connect with CindyThe White Magnolia Advanced Skincare InstituteInstagram: @thewhitemagnolia_asciWebsite: https://whitemagnoliaskininstitute.com The Integrative Estheticianhttps://theintegrativeesthetician.thinkific.com/products/courses/twm Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Podcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessionsInstagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessions @PricklyBare Post-Wax Skincare for Sensitive, Irritated Skin PricklyBare is a post-wax skincare line designed for inflamed, reactive, and sensitive skin — especially those intimate areas we ask a LOT from.Think: calming support, barrier care, and esthetician-built formulas that actually respect your skin.Follow Along: Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybare Website: pricklybare.com Join the journey to get launch updates and be first to know when products drop.Love This Episode? If this conversation gave you a new way to think about client care: Screenshot the episode and tag @beautytalkconfessions and Cindy Leave a quick rating or review — it helps this podcast reach estheticians and beauty pros who need these conversations   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1 hr
  3. JAN 29

    Trend Thursday - Hot or Not: Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

    In this episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati kicks off her Hot or Not / Trend Thursday series with a real-time review of the viral Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint. Beauty Talk Confessions was created to cut through the filters, fluff, and unrealistic expectations of the beauty industry and this episode does exactly that. From behind-the-treatment-room conversations to trying trends exactly as clients and professionals experience them, Kati brings honest reactions, esthetician insight, and zero sugarcoating. In this episode, she breaks down the texture, pigment, application, and wear of the Cooling Water Jelly Tint, sharing what worked, what didn’t, and who this product is actually for. Expect laughs, real talk, and an unfiltered review that helps you decide if this trend is worth the hype. In This Episode, We Cover What the Cooling Water Jelly Tint claims to do Texture, pigment, and first impressions Application tips and common mistakes Cheeks vs lips performance Who this product works best for Kati’s final Hot or Not rating The Takeaway Not every viral product is bad  and not every one is worth it. The goal isn’t perfection or trends for the sake of trends, it’s finding what actually works for you. This episode is a reminder to experiment, have fun, and take beauty a little less seriously. Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessionsPodcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare: Post Hair Removal Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Experience Launching Summer 2026. PricklyBare is a desert-curated post hair removal skincare line with pre and post care products designed to support healthy skin beyond the treatment room. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybareWebsite: pricklybare.com If You Loved This EpisodeTry the product and let Kati know what you think. Screenshot the episode, tag @beautytalkconfessions, and share your Hot or Not opinion. Leaving a rating or review helps this space grow and keeps these conversations going. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  4. JAN 26

    Opening Your Own Beauty Business: What No One Explains About the Process

    In this episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati shares what opening a beauty business actually looks like beyond what is taught in school or shared on social media. Drawing from nearly five years of spa ownership, she walks through the emotional and practical realities of starting before you feel ready, learning through mistakes, and navigating the steps required to open a business legally and sustainably. This episode blends personal story with real guidance for anyone considering working for themselves. In This Episode, Kati Shares Why the path to ownership is rarely straightforward Lessons from her first attempt at business ownership Red flags that pushed her to open her own space The emotional moment she decided to go all in Foundational steps to legally open a beauty business Where to save money and where to invest early Why community and support matter The Takeaway You do not need everything figured out to start. With clarity, preparation, and support, building your own beauty business is possible and you are allowed to learn along the way. Resources Mentioned A step by step guide for opening a beauty business is linked in the show notes, including legal setup, suppliers, and networking resources. Access the guide here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAF5_IbTpA0/giJg9wNp4S3L6L6cKnMP_g/view Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessions Podcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post-Wax Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring/Summer 2026. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybare Website: pricklybare.com If You Loved This Episode Screenshot and tag @beautytalkconfessions or leave a rating to help other beauty professionals find the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  5. JAN 23

    Menopause Myths, Hormone Truths and Midlife Empowerment with Dr. Michelle Gordon

    In this episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati sits down with Dr. Michelle Gordon for an honest conversation about menopause, hormones, and what women deserve from healthcare as they age. After stepping away from a decades long surgical career, Dr. Gordon now provides personalized, evidence based menopause care for midlife women who are tired of being dismissed, rushed, or told they are “just aging.” Together, they unpack where hormone fear came from, what the science actually says, and how women can reclaim clarity, confidence, and agency in midlife. In This Episode, We Cover Why hormone therapy was misunderstood and wrongly vilified The real impact of menopause on weight, sleep, mood, and brain health Overlooked symptoms of perimenopause Medical gaslighting in women’s healthcare Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone and whole body health Practical tools for navigating midlife with confidence The Takeaway Menopause is not something to push through or ignore. With the right information and individualized care, women can feel strong, informed, and supported during this stage of life. Connect with Dr. Michelle Gordon Website: drmichellegordon.comInstagram: @doctormichellegordonFacebook: @DRMGordonTikTok: @drmichellegordon Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessionsPodcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post Wax Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring Summer 2026. PricklyBare is a post wax skincare line designed for irritated, sensitive, inflamed, and hormonal skin including ingrowns, razor burn, and post wax inflammation. Created for women who want comfort, clarity, and confidence after waxing. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybareWebsite: pricklybare.com If You Loved This Episode Share it with someone navigating perimenopause or menopause who needs real answers. Leaving a rating or review helps support honest conversations about women’s health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    41 min
  6. JAN 23

    You’re Supposed to Mess Up: Lessons from Beauty School

    In this episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati takes listeners back to the beginning of her beauty career and shares the messy, funny, and formative moments that shaped her foundation in the industry. From cosmetology school to esthetics school, eyebrow mishaps to two hour Brazilians, this episode is an honest look at what it really means to start from zero, make mistakes publicly, and learn through experience. Kati reflects on how confidence is built over time, why mess ups are unavoidable, and how supportive mentors, clients, and education can turn failure into mastery. This episode is for anyone in beauty school, early in their career, or questioning whether they are “good enough” to keep going. In This Episode, Kati Shares Why everyone’s foundation in the beauty industry is imperfect Her unconventional path into cosmetology and esthetics school Dropping out, coming back, and finally committing to the process What beauty school really teaches you and what it does not Early mistakes that shaped her confidence and skill set The role of mentors and constructive feedback Why repetition builds confidence, not perfection How slowing down leads to better results Why mess ups are part of mastery, not failure The Takeaway You have to start somewhere. Mistakes are not proof that you are bad at this. They are proof that you are learning. Mastery comes from showing up, practicing, asking questions, and choosing to keep going even when it feels uncomfortable. If you care deeply, stay curious, and commit to learning from your experiences, you can build a career that feels aligned, fulfilling, and sustainable. Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Follow Beauty Talk Confessions for episode updates, behind the scenes content, and real conversations from inside the beauty industry. Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessionsPodcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post Wax Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring Summer 2026. PricklyBare is a post wax skincare line designed for irritated, sensitive, inflamed, and hormonal skin including ingrowns, razor burn, and post wax inflammation. Created for women who want comfort, clarity, and confidence after waxing. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybareWebsite: pricklybare.com If You Loved This EpisodeIf this episode made you laugh, cringe, or feel seen, screenshot it and tag @beautytalkconfessions. Leaving a rating or review helps support honest conversations and real stories in the beauty industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
  7. JAN 23

    Success Trauma, Spiritual Alignment and Rebuilding Your Business Identity with Charlie Carter

    In this deeply honest episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, Kati sits down with Charlie Carter, owner of Aura Spa and creator of The CEO Goddess Code, for a powerful conversation about success, burnout, alignment, and rebuilding your identity as a business owner. Charlie’s journey is raw, spiritual, and deeply relatable. Before Aura Spa existed, she ran a metaphysical wellness center, hosted tarot classes, built a yoga studio during COVID, managed multiple businesses at once, burned out, walked away from nursing, sold everything, and rebuilt her life and business from the ground up. Together, Kati and Charlie explore the emotional and energetic weight of entrepreneurship, especially for women who achieve outward success while feeling disconnected inside. This episode dives into success trauma, impostor syndrome, hiring challenges, leadership fatigue, and the pressure to constantly expand or chase trends in the med spa industry. They also discuss intuitive decision making, energetic alignment, and what it looks like to build a business rooted in self trust, safety, and sustainability rather than hustle or external validation. If you have ever questioned your path, felt overwhelmed by success, or wondered whether alignment matters more than growth, this conversation offers clarity, permission, and reassurance that you are not alone. In This Episode, We Cover Success trauma and the emotional crash after achieving “everything” Burnout, identity loss, and choosing health over validation Running multiple businesses and knowing when to let go Alignment versus expansion in entrepreneurship Hiring challenges, leadership fatigue, and impostor syndrome Intuition, energy work, and decision making in business Hot or Not takes on popular beauty and med spa trends Connect with Charlie Website: charlierose.life Upcoming Workshop: ceogoddesscode.charlierose.life Facebook: Charlie Rose The CEO Goddess Code Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessions Podcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post Wax Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring Summer 2026. PricklyBare is a post wax skincare line designed for irritated, sensitive, inflamed, and hormonal skin including ingrowns, razor burn, and post wax inflammation. Created for women who want comfort, clarity, and confidence after waxing. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybare Website: pricklybare.com If You Loved This Episode If this conversation resonated with you, screenshot the episode and tag @beautytalkconfessions to share your favorite takeaway. Leaving a rating or review helps support honest conversations around entrepreneurship, alignment, and soul led business in the beauty industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1 hr
  8. JAN 23

    Beauty Talk Confessions: A Space for Real Stories in the Beauty Industry

    What No One Tells You About the Beauty Industry Welcome to the first episode of Beauty Talk Confessions, where we talk about the human side of the beauty industry, beyond trends, tools, and curated success. In this episode, Kati shares the intention behind the podcast and why connection is the foundation of a sustainable, fulfilling career in beauty. With over 15 years in the industry and experience as a spa owner, employer, and service provider, she opens up about the realities no one prepares you for: imposter syndrome, pressure to keep up, vendor hype, mistakes, growth, and the power of community. This episode sets the tone for what Beauty Talk Confessions is all about real stories, real people, and honest conversations about building a career in beauty without losing your humanity. In This Episode, Kati Covers Why Beauty Talk Confessions was created What no one tells you about building a career in the beauty industry The transition from service provider to spa owner and leader Why connection matters more than trends, machines, or social media Imposter syndrome, mistakes, and learning through experience The pressure to keep up and why it’s not the answer Building community, confidence, and long term sustainability A Note From Kati This podcast is not about doing things perfectly. It is about doing them honestly. You do not need to have everything figured out to build something meaningful. You simply need to stay curious, stay human, and be willing to grow especially alongside people who understand this industry from the inside. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, behind, or unsure in your beauty career, this space is for you. Connect with Kati & Beauty Talk Confessions Follow Beauty Talk Confessions for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and ongoing conversations from inside the beauty industry. Instagram & TikTok: @beautytalkconfessions Podcast Page: https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions PricklyBare — Post-Wax Skincare Rooted in Real Esthetician Expertise Launching Spring/Summer 2026. PricklyBare is a post-wax skincare line designed for irritated, sensitive, inflamed, and hormonal skin — including ingrowns, razor burn, and post-wax inflammation. Created for women who want comfort, clarity, and confidence after waxing. Instagram & TikTok: @pricklybare Website: pricklybare.com Love This Episode? If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone navigating their own path in the beauty industry. Leaving a rating or review helps the podcast reach more professionals who value honesty, connection, and growth. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    12 min
5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Beauty Talk Confessions is a podcast that goes beneath the surface of the beauty industry. The stories, the struggles, the identity shifts, the healing, and the grit behind the glow.   Hosted by Kati Wasserman, esthetician, business owner, and product developer, each episode features real, raw conversations with beauty professionals, founders, healers, coaches, creators, and clients who have lived the truth behind beauty.   We talk about: •⁠  ⁠identity and reinvention •⁠  ⁠confidence, comparison, and self-worth •⁠  ⁠the emotional and unseen side of beauty work •⁠  ⁠entrepreneurship and the messy middle •⁠  ⁠aging, wellness, hormones, and internal beauty •⁠  ⁠success, failures, pivots, and the lessons that shape us   There’s no filter here, just honest conversations that remind us beauty is personal, powerful, and deeply human.   Whether you're in the industry or navigating your own relationship with beauty, Beauty Talk Confessions will make you feel seen, supported, and inspired to show up as your most authentic self.   🔗 Social Links & Where to Find Us   Podcast Website:https://www.flagstaff-skincare.com/beautytalkconfessions   Instagram:@beautytalkconfessions@pricklybare   TikTok:@beautytalkconfessions   Booking / Contact:pricklybare@gmail.com