The Thick Pod

Episode 27: HOT TOPICS: Fires, Frenemies & Feeling out of Place Feb 03, 2025

n episode 27 of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey get candid about the hot topics on their minds. They address the recent devastating Los Angeles fires and the controversy surrounding their attendance on a Tarte trip during such a challenging time. They also open up about the complexities of being influencers who don’t quite fit the mold—Michelle reflects on being 41 and feeling caught between the mature beauty community and younger creators, while Kelsey shares the struggles of being in her early 30s with three kids, straddling a life that aligns more with her 40-something peers.

Episode 26: Trippin’ with Tarte Tea on Necker Island Jan 27, 2025

In this episode of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey take you behind the scenes of their second Trippin’ with Tarte to Necker Island —something they never dreamed would happen once, let alone twice. From last-minute invites to unforgettable connections, they share all their favorite (and hilariously scandalous) moments. Hear about late-night skinny-dipping adventures, the inspiring people they met, the unforgettable laughs, and all the juicy details about how this whirlwind trip came together. Grab your tea—it’s time to spill everything about this island getaway!

Episode 25: “Building Brand Relationships and Laughing at Ourselves” Jan 23, 2025

In this episode, Kelsey and Michelle kick things off by sharing some hilariously embarrassing recent stories that are equal parts mortifying and funny. After the giggles, they dive into the world of beauty content creation, sharing tips and tricks for leveling up your game. They break down the evolving landscape of TikTok Shop versus traditional influencers and how these changes are shaking up the beauty industry. Plus, they reveal insights from their own journeys, including how to foster meaningful relationships with brands, get on PR lists, and build lasting partnerships. If you’re a content creator or just love a behind-the-scenes peek, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode 24: “2025: dream it, plan it, do it” Jan 13, 2025

In this inspiring New Year’s episode, Kelsey and Michelle reflect on their journeys over the past two years, sharing what they wished for themselves and how those dreams evolved into reality. They dive into the power of setting intentional goals through manifestation, writing things down, saying affirmations out loud, and creating vision boards. From their word of the year to what actually unfolded, the duo explores the magic of aligning intentions with actions and offers tips for making your goals come to life. Whether you’re a seasoned manifester or just starting out, this episode will leave you motivated to make 2025 your best year yet!

Episode 23: Holiday Catch-Up & The TikTok Ban: What It Means for Creators Jan 06, 2025

After a much-needed holiday break, Michelle and Kelsey are back with Episode 23 of The Thick Pod! 🎉 We’re catching up on everything from Kelsey’s recent move to how the holidays treated us, and all the chaos in between. Then, we dive into the hot topic on everyone’s mind: the TikTok ban. 🚨 What does it mean for us as creators, and how are we preparing for the unknown? Plus, we share our thoughts on staying connected with our communities across other platforms. Let’s get into it!

Episode 22: Episode Title: Alle Brean aka Influenced Queens on Mastering TikTok Shop Nov 18, 2024

In episode 22 of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey chat with the incredible Alle Brean (@influencedqueens, @‌allure_fashion, @alluredbeauty), one of the top creators on TikTok Shop, renowned for her consistent sales success over the past year as the #1 TikTok shop creator consistently. Alle shares her inspiring journey from her previous job to becoming a full-time TikTok Shop creator. Discover her strategies for managing four TikTok accounts, her advice on navigating the platform, and the evolution of her career in content creation. If you’re looking to level up your TikTok Shop game or curious about the behind-the-scenes of a top creator’s journey, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode 21: Live Q&A: Your Questions Answered LIVE! Nov 11, 2024

In episode 21 of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey go live on TikTok for an interactive Q&A session, tackling questions in real time! We dive into the ever-changing TikTok algorithm, share insights on making an income as content creators, and discuss TikTok Shop. Discover our thoughts on managing a second TikTok account, how our friendship began, and even a sneak peek into a potential live podcast episode. Plus, hear about Kelsey’s Beachwaver launch, our kids’ reactions to our TikTok careers, and get our latest life updates.

Episode 20: Leveling Up as a Beauty Content Creator with Sonia Elyss Nov 04, 2024

In episode 20 of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey sit down with beauty marketing consultant and creator mentor Sonia Elyss (@sonia.elyss). With a wealth of experience on the brand side of beauty content creation, Sonia shares her journey and insider knowledge on landing brand deals and orchestrating successful brand trips. Tune in as we explore the evolving landscape of beauty content creation, the dynamics of brand partnerships, and practical tips for aspiring creators looking to elevate their game. Plus, we dive into the impact of TikTok Shop on the beauty industry and how it’s shaping the future of content creation.

Episode 19: Breaking the Stigma: GLP-1 Weight Loss Oct 28, 2024

In this episode of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey, joined by guest host Cassie Russek (@cassierussek), open up about their personal journeys with weight loss using GLP-1 medications to treat a disease. They dive deep into how they approach exercise, the concept of intuitive eating, and the stigma surrounding these medications, especially in the entertainment industry. Together, they share why they believe GLP-1s are an essential tool in treating a disease, and why the stigma around using them needs to change. A raw and honest conversation!

Episode 18: From Disney to Hollywood: Hairstyling for the Big Screen with Cassie Russek Oct 21, 2024

In this episode of the The Thick Pod with Michelle and Kelsey, they sit down with Cassie Russek, (@cassierussek) a film and television hairstylist who’s worked on major films like The Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy. Cassie shares her inspiring journey from salon life to working at Disney World, and how she eventually broke into the film industry. The trio also dive into a fun discussion about who they’d be if they were thrown into The Hunger Games. Cassie also shares a bit about working on the James Corden show and tips for aspiring stylists in the film industry!

Episode 17: Brand Trips, Trolls, and a Juicy New York Prank Oct 14, 2024

In this episode of The Thick Pod, Michelle and Kelsey take you behind the scenes of their recent brand trips to New York! They share all the fun details about their perfect New York night, their first-ever visit to the Hamptons, and a hilarious prank their friend Alle pulled on Michelle. Plus, Kelsey celebrates with a big purchase, and they answer listener questions about dealing with trolls online—especially when it comes to protecting their kids.

Episode 16: Beyond the Surface: Pretty Privilege & Public Perception Oct 07, 2024

Michelle, Kelsey, and guest host (celebrity makeup artist) Blondie tackle the topic of "pretty privilege" and the impact of public perception. They discuss the shift in treatment that comes with physical appearance changes, explore the pressures faced by celebrities in managing personal boundaries, and share insights on how appearance influences social interactions. They have a revealing conversation about the challenges and realities of navigating beauty standards and public expectations.

Episode 15: Breaking the Obesity Bias Sep 30, 2024

Michelle and Kelsey along with guest host (celebrity makeup artist) Blondie for an eye-opening discussion on obesity bias. Kelsey shares personal stories and insights on the pervasive stereotypes and unfair treatment faced by those in larger bodies. From her experiences with societal judgments to the emotional toll of being treated differently, Kelsey sheds light on how deeply ingrained biases affect people’s lives. Michelle opens up about her own journey and the challenges of feeling invisible or judged based on body size. They explore the real impact of these biases and discuss the importance of empathy and change.

Episode 14: Behind the Brush - Celebrity Hair & Makeup Artist Blondie Sep 23, 2024

Join Michelle and Kelsey as they sit down with Blondie, a mega talented Melbourne-to-L.A. celebrity hair and makeup artist, for a very special chat about her journey from Australia to Hollywood. Blondie shares her love for horror films, her iconic all-black fashion, and the wild way she got her start in the makeup artist industry. Blondie shares insights on mentorship, the value of hands-on experience, and practical tips for aspiring artists. Blondie shares personal stories from the world of celebrity beauty including stories about bed bugs and bathroom cameras.

Episode 13: Mirror, Mirror: Navigating Body Dysmorphia Sep 16, 2024

Michelle and Kelsey explore the emotional rollercoaster of dealing with body dysmorphia after a major weight loss. Michelle opens up about her struggles with reconciling her new body with her old self-image, and they discuss loose skin and fluctuating self-esteem. Michelle and Kelsey chat about the ongoing journey of body acceptance, the importance of mental check-ins, and the reality that self-love and body confidence can be a continuous work in progress. They also discuss the challenges of reconciling a new body image with old self-perceptions, and the impact it has on self-esteem and daily life.

Episode 12: THE HUSBANDS Q&A: PART 2 Sep 09, 2024

This one is JUICY! Michelle asks her husband the question she’s always wanted to know - if he had any thoughts on her body before she lost weight and the answer may be surprising! Kelsey asks your questions on if her husband thinks things are different in the bedroom, and more!

Episode 11: THE HUSBANDS Q&A: PART 1 Sep 02, 2024

You asked, they answered! Michelle and Kelsey’s husbands spill the tea on what it’s like from their perspective witnessing their lives change on social media. Michelle shares the funny story of how she first met her husband, and Kelsey’s husband shares what it’s like being a firefighter and EMT and a “thirst trap” on his wife’s TikTok.

Episode 10: Maintaining on a GLP-1 medication after losing 100 pounds Aug 26, 2024

What happens after the weight loss phase on a GLP-1 medication? Kelsey and Michelle give an update on their maintenance journey after losing almost 200 pounds between them. Both have successfully “maintained” for almost a year and they discuss what maintenance looks like for each of them as well as share with what their future looks like on a GLP-1.

Episode 9: A manifestation & spiritual journey with Annie Aug 19, 2024

One of Kelsey and Michelle’s favorite humans stops by, Annie (@aisforannie on TikTok / @a_is_for_annie on IG) to talk about her spiritual journey and tips on how to manifest what you desire. They also chat about how they first met on TikTok, who dm’d who and Annie shares about her weight loss journey and her background as a Nurse Practitioner. Annie also talks about the loss of her brother at a young age and how that impacted her spirituality journey.

Episode 8: Q&A Part 1: Sex after Weightloss & TikTok Shop Aug 12, 2024

Part 1 of an ongoing Q&A series! Michelle talks about “differences” in her anatomy after mommy makeover surgery, and Kelsey’s talks about sex after weight loss. They also answer your top questions on TikTok Shop! Have a question? Email thethickpod@gmail.com

Episode 7: “Why Not You?” self love talk with Dr Joy Bracey! Aug 05, 2024

Kelsey and Michelle welcome their first guest Dr. Joy Bracey to touch on the difficult topic of self love and feeling worthy after living in bigger bodies. Dr. Joy Bracey is a licensed therapist, self-love & mindfulness teacher, public speaker, single mom of four, and successful non-profit CEO. She is also the host of her podcast, The Easy Weigh Out which can be found on Apple & Spotify Podcasts.

Episode 6: All things Plastic: a Plastic Surgery DEEP DIVE Jul 29, 2024

The full story of Michelle’s “mommy makeover” experience last summer and what landed her in the hospital. Kelsey describes her breast augmentation experience in her early 20s and what her future plans are after losing over 100 pounds.

Episode 5: Becoming full-time Content Creators! Jul 22, 2024

Michelle & Kelsey dive into the world of content creation sharing how they got started as content creators, working with brands & share tips and tricks to level up your content game. They answer some of your top questions on social media and content creation.

Episode 4: We went TRIPPIN' WITH TARTE in BORA BORA Jul 15, 2024

We went TRIPPIN' WITH TARTE in BORA BORA: The background on being invited to go to Bora Bora TRIPPIN' WITH TARTE and all about their experience being invited to a trip of a lifetime and what the trip was really like.

Episode 3: Internet trolls & the dark side of content creation Jul 08, 2024

Internet trolls & the dark side of content creation: What it's really like being a content creator dealing with mean girls, mean comments and internet trolls and how we respond.

Episode 2: Proud CHEATERS and the wild world of GLP1 weight loss Jul 01, 2024

Proud CHEATERS and the wild world of GLP1 weight loss: Just two regular gals with PCOS and obesity who stumbled upon a GLP1 medication, losing 100 pounds, and what it's like being seen as a "cheater" in the toxic diet culture world.

Episode 1: Getting into the thick of our past by interviewing each other Jul 01, 2024

Getting into the thick of our past by interviewing each other: Growing up Kelsey and who Michelle is as a mother, interview style. Michelle interviews Kelsey about her childhood, getting married young and having children before her friends. Kelsey asks Michelle about motherhood, her career and growing up in a bigger body.

The Thick Pod - Teaser Jun 23, 2024

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