"The Story Behind My Book, ‘Soul-Deep Beauty,’" with Don Pape & Melissa Johnson

In honor of the release of my new book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, I have a special episode in store for you. I recently sat down to have a conversation with my literary agent, Don Pape. Don has been a champion of my book and its message for years now and I can’t thank him enough.

In our time together, we talk about how Don ended up working in the publishing business, how he then became a literary agent, and the unique features of his company, Pape Commons. This conversation is a special one, as we talk about my heart and passion behind Soul-Deep Beauty, the need for this message amidst today’s media saturated culture, as well as some of the vulnerabilities and struggles that have come up along the way.

"Beauty Standards Are Devastating Us" with Jessica DeFino

Beauty reporter and beauty culture critic, Jessica DeFino, saw the inner workings of the beauty industry and she didn’t like it. More than that, Jessica now spends her time dismantling beauty standards, debunking marketing myths, and exploring how beauty culture impacts people — physically, psychologically, and spiritually. Jessica has written for outlets such as The New York Times, Vogue, Teen Vogue, Harper’s BAZAAR, Allure, New York Magazine’s The Cut, ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Glamour, SELF, and many others.

In this episode, Jessica talks about why she decided to opt out of the beauty industry, the psychological and spiritual impacts of beauty standards, why beauty standards are so powerful, why she sees today’s standard of beauty as dehumanizing, and what the beauty industry doesn’t want you to know. Jessica’s insights are so needed, speaking powerfully to the media-saturated culture we find ourselves in.

"Beauty Ideals, Social Media, and Selfies" with The Axia Project

This episode is all about beauty ideals, our relationship with our bodies and food, and social media. I can’t think of better conversation partners for this one than Lisa DeKam and Jacquie Danz, the founders of the Axia Project. Lisa is a physical therapist who works in the field of eating disorders and Jacquie is the mom of two teenage girls who is committed to changing the narrative that a females’ appearance is the most important thing about her. Together, Lisa and Jacquie are committed to teaching women that life is more than your appearance and help women build skills to actively live their God-given worth.

"Is Self-Love Indulgent?" with Karlyn Benn, LPC

Karlyn Benn is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Glō Coach. In her coaching work, she helps women live a life full of joy, confidence, and courage all while embracing the beautiful body they have right now. Karlyn specifically emphasizes the inner work that must take place within each of us so that we can show up confidently and authentically to shine in the world around us.

"Why I'm So Passionate About Beauty, Part Two" with Melissa Johnson

Today’s episode is a little different. Back in Episode 18, I shared a little about my story and why I’m so passionate about beauty and why I even started Impossible Beauty in the first place. In today’s episode, I share a bit more about why I care so much about this topic and why I hope you’ll join me in redefining beauty and seeking after true beauty.