Breaking Beauty Podcast

Barb Stegemann is back to inspire us once more, just in time for Mother’s Day! Also known as the “Philosopher Queen,” Barb is a longtime friend of our show and a complete force to be reckoned with in the beauty business.

Barb launched The 7 Virtues fragrance brand out of her garage in Halifax, Nova Scotia on International Women’s Day back in 2010, after her best friend, Capt. Trevor Greene, was wounded in Afghanistan by the Taliban while serving there.

Barb then sowed the seeds of what would become a historic social enterprise and commercial success story, buying fair-trade essential oils from farmers in war-torn regions to make perfumes for peace — and now The 7 Virtues is in 2,000 Sephora stores around the world.

Tune in to hear about:

What makes a viral moment: why The 7 Virtues “Santal Vanille and “Amber Vanilla” were the clean perfumes to pop off on TikTok
Why “Vanilla Woods,” launched in 2018, was years ahead of the gourmand trend, and what makes it the brand’s bestseller to this day
What makes a fragrance “clean” anyway? Barb explains fragrance load, organic sugar-cane alcohol and a 24-hour wear test
Why “Strawberry Jam” is the biggest launch in brand history, and why Barb believes everyone wants to smell like layer cake at this moment in time
Inside The 7 Virtues Atelier on the Halifax Waterfront, and a major scoop on Barb’s expansion plans for the custom fragrance concept store
The Sephora full-circle moment: from taking part in Sephora Accelerate in 2018 to mentoring the next class of Sephora Squad creators in 2026
“Dragons’ Den,” redux: the original pitch that landed Brett Wilson's $125,000 investment (a reported 56-fold return), and what it felt like to return as a guest dragon for the show's 20th anniversary
Why being underestimated is a gift, and the Marcus Aurelius wisdom Barb has repeated to her kids since they were small: “Be prepared to meet the angry, the lost, the jealous, the jaded. Now lead.”

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/


Related episodes like this:
The 7 Virtues Founder Barb Stegemann (original airdate in 2017)
What Bite Beauty Founder Susanne Langmuir is Banking on Next
“Perfume Princess” Mona Kattan On Kayali’s Meteoric Rise at Sephora, The Secrets to Fragrance Layering and Is Your Signature Scent Overrated?


PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Lightstim
LightStim Elipsa is an FDA-cleared device used by thousands of professionals to simultaneously treat wrinkles and acne. It has 868 professional LED lights and delivers the same collagen-stimulating results as a treatment at a doctor’s office—and it’s now available for at-home use. Use our code BEAUTY to SAVE 10% at lightstim.com.

Merit
Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.

Vivier
Building on their legacy of Vitamin C innovation, Vivier recently launched their most
advanced formula to date—Vivier Serum 30, designed to visibly brighten the skin, refine tone, texture and support a more radiant, even-looking complexion. Visit VivierSkin.com and use code BEAUTY15 at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase.

Nutrafol
Let your hair be one less thing to worry about. See visibly thicker, stronger, faster growing hair in 3–6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you visit nutrafol.com and enter promo code BREAKING.

Dove
Discover the new Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash at www.dove.com/ca now available on Amazon and in stores nationwide.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alix Earle! Jo Malone! Gisele! We’re diving into the headlines that have the beauty world buzzing in our first catch-up episode since January. From the envelope-pushing product marketing for “The Devil Wears Prada 2” to the latest beauty lawsuit, we are breaking down the hot takes that you have been waiting for.
Plus! We found a new book for your French pharmacy obsession, a totally accessible luxury-meets-skincare shower buy and we’re weighing in on the massive (and controversial) launch of Alix Earle’s new acne-focused skincare brand.
Editorial note: This episode was recorded April 10 2026.
You’ll hear about:
Gisele Bündchen is better than ever: While fashion campaigns turn their attention to mature models, we chat about the drugstore beauty brand that just landed Gisele as its very first global ambassador
The “K-Pop” sunscreen phenomenon: How brands like Anua are leveraging "K-Pop Demon Hunters" to help make sunscreen cool for Gen Z
Jo Malone vs. Jo Malone: The "scent-sational" legal battle between the Estée Lauder parent company and the founder herself over her Zara collaboration
The “Devil Wears Prada” sequel: We discuss the blatant — but brilliant — movie marketing from L’Oréal and Lancôme that is pushing product placement beyond anything we have seen before
The body care explosion: Your new luxe-for-less “everything shower” staple
The French pharmacy guidebook: A breakdown of the new book “The French Skincare Bible: Beauty Secrets for Healthy, Glowing Skin” by legit French pharmacist Dr. Marine Vincent — your ultimate decoder for French pharmacy favourites, at last.
Alix Earle’s Reale Actives skincare launch: Does "sexy” marketing work for acne? We debate the strategy behind the influencer’s $5 million dollar first-day sales and the receipts she brought to social media
A message from our show sponsor:
Discover the new Dove Serum + Oil Body Wash at www.dove.com/ca—now available on Amazon and in stores nationwide.
For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/
Get social with us:
Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, TikTok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

Related episodes:
Makeup Legend Bobbi Brown on Selling Her Namesake Brand
“Anna: The Biography” Author Amy Odell
Our #DamnGood Best of Spring 2026 Edit is Here! Plus, Leaked Labs First Impressions
*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*
Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song: "Cherry Bomb" by Saya (used with permission)
Produced by: Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s 2026 and everyone’s asking: why has my Holy Grail foundation been reformulated?! We’re explaining the reason behind the industry-wide shakeup this week. From a $16.99 drugstore dupe to a luxury splurge at $145 — we’re uncovering what’s #DamnGood now in the next-gen foundation landscape.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why major foundation brands — including Armani, Estée Lauder and NARS — have been forced to reformulate their most iconic products
How the removal of cyclopentasiloxane has changed the texture, wear and shade ranges of cult classics
What the serum foundation trend means for your skin — and which new ones break through with their performance
Which nouveau matte formulas are worth trying if you're oily-skinned — and which ones to skip
Whether luxury foundations justify their price tags (including one at $145 US)

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

Related episodes like this:
Are You Applying Your Foundation The Right Way? How-to Find the Perfect Shade, Formula, Layering Tips and More With Beyonce’s Makeup Artist Sir John
🎨 15+ Ideas Guaranteed To Elevate Your Makeup Routine With Sofia Richie’s Makeup Artist Pati Dubroff
Are You Applying Your Concealer the Right Way? Celeb Makeup Artist Jamie Greenberg Shares Her Best Tips For Disguising Puffiness, Covering Acne & Finding Your Magic Potion


PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Vivier
Building on their legacy of Vitamin C innovation, Vivier recently launched their most
advanced formula to date — Vivier Serum 30, designed to visibly brighten the skin, refine tone, texture and support a more radiant, even-looking complexion. Visit VivierSkin.ca or vivierskin.com and use code BEAUTY15 at checkout for 15% off on one order.

Lightstim
LightStim Elipsa is an FDA-cleared device used by thousands of professionals to simultaneously treat wrinkles and acne. It has 868 professional LED lights and delivers the same collagen-stimulating results as a doctor's office – and it’s now available for at-home use. Use our code BEAUTY to SAVE 10% at lightstim.com.

Blissy
Experience better skin, smoother hair and cooler sleep with Blissy’s silk essentials like pillowcases and sleep masks. Use code BREAKING for an extra 30% off at blissy.com/BREAKING.

Nutrafol
Let your hair be one less thing to worry about. See visibly thicker, stronger, faster-growing hair in 3-to-6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you visit Nutrafol.com and enter promo code BREAKING.
Timeline
Timeline’s clinically proven supplement formula is now available at a new, lower price. Mitopure now starts at $79, when you go to timeline.com/BREAKING

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lucy Hale is here to share all of her skin secrets! In this special live BONUS episode recorded in partnership with Shiseido Talks, we dive deep into the world of J-Beauty with the “Pretty Little Liars” star, alongside the internet’s favourite board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jenny Liu aka @derm.talk on Instagram.
From embracing Japanese-inspired self-care principles to unveiling the new Shiseido Benefiance collection that promises brightening results in two weeks (!), this intimate conversation explores how minimalist rituals are the real key to your skin’s healthspan – no “trends” required.
In this episode we discuss:
Lucy’s beauty glow-up: How she traded the 21-step routine of her PLL days for the minimalist skincare vibe she swears by now.
The "eye cream for 11s" hack: Dr. Jenny Liu (@derm.talk) explains why she uses eye cream on the lines *between* her eyebrows and how to actually protect your skin barrier.
Aging in Hollywood: Lucy gets real about the pressure of growing older in the spotlight and the wellness trends that actually work — hello, fascia-release facials!
The 14-day glow: Everything you need to know about Shiseido Benefiance and why Picao Preto is the natural retinol alternative currently on our radar.
Rapid-fire round: Lucy reveals her ultimate comfort TV show and the exact ritual she uses to decompress after a long day.
Christmas came early: What it was like reuniting with former co-star Ian Harding for “Twelve Dates of Christmas” scheduled for release later this year.
A message from Shiseido, this week’s show sponsor:
For more information on the Shiseido Benefiance range, including the iconic Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream and the brand new Brightening and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream and Dark Spot and Wrinkle Smoothing Serum, visit shiseido.com where you can get 15% off with our exclusive code: BREAKING15. #shiseidopartner
SHISEIDO - Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream (Use Code BREAKING15 For 15% Off): https://go.shopmy.us/p-52845137
SHISEIDO - Benefiance Dark Spot and Wrinkle Smoothing Serum (Use Code BREAKING15 For 15% Off): https://go.shopmy.us/p-52845323
SHISEIDO - Benefiance Brightening and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream (Use Code BREAKING15 For 15% Off): https://go.shopmy.us/p-52845436
SHISEIDO - Cotton Facial Pads (Use Code BREAKING15 For 15% Off): https://go.shopmy.us/p-52845547

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/breakingbeautypodcast

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/
Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok, X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch our episodes!
*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*
Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by: Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Erica Taylor, the makeup artist behind some of the most-watched viral beauty videos on the internet is here! With over four million combined followers, 30-plus years of professional experience, and a debut book coming out April 21 (“The Magic of Makeup: Your Handbook for a Youthful, Radiant Look” — with a blurb from Makeup by Mario himself!) Erica is sharing her best makeup tips, straight to our ears.

From Erica’s humble beginnings at a cosmetics counter in Queens to going viral with 10 million views on "Common Mistakes That Age Our Face," Erica breaks down everything she knows about mature skin makeup, midlife beauty upgrades, and the techniques she coined — including the iconic triangle lift and the "over the river through the hood" eyeshadow method for hooded lids.
In this episode you'll hear about:
What to expect in Erica's debut book, “The Magic of Makeup: Your Handbook for a Youthful, Radiant Look”: fixes for resting bitch face, the makeup facelift and easy-to-follow tutorials
Nailing skin prep: how to prevent your skincare and makeup from “divorcing”
Erica's hot take: Estee Lauder's new version of Double Wear is better than its predecessor (a.k.a. the “Cadaver” Wear, according to Erica)
Her very best advice for dealing with under-eyes — fixes for puffiness, bags, dark circles and more
Blush placement tips that just make sense for those who are 30-plus
Eyeliner truths that anyone over 40 needs to know
The brow mapping basics that will help everyone avoid the “Wrong Eyebrow Theory”
Plus: an exclusive sneak peek at Erica's brand new product collaboration with Doll 10 — a first-of-its-kind eye balm-concealer hybrid she's been developing for years
For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

Related episodes like this:

Makeup By Mario: Soft Glam Hacks, Kim Kardashian Memories & a New Book?!
How-to Shop for Makeup Like a Pro: Advice from Tiktok Stars and Makeup Experts The Lipstick Lesbians
Makeup Artist Katie Jane Hughes on Makeup Hacks, Glowy Skin & Her New Brand Launch

PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Jones Road Beauty
Jones Road Beauty just launched their Lip Recharge, your next holy grail! Lip Recharge is a powerful lip treatment that refreshes, smooths, and hydrates on contact, while nourishing lips over time. For a limited time our listeners are getting a free Shimmer Face Oil on their first purchase. Just head to JonesRoadBeauty.com and use code BEAUTY at checkout. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them our show sent you.

R + Co
R+Co was founded by a collective of world-renowned hair stylists who’ve worked on major fashion shows and editorial shoots — so every formula is rooted in professional performance. Visit randco.com and shop their birthday sale for 30% off sitewide for a limited time — no code needed.

Quince
Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Now available in Canada, too. Go to quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping and 365-day returns.

Dove
Dove is bringing a luxury body-care ritual to the retail aisle with their new Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash. This product delivers serum-powered radiance and deep nourishment with a premium sensorial feel, at an everyday price. Discover the new Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash at www.dove.com/ca now available on Amazon and in stores nationwide.


*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.