Shows
Business of Aesthetics Podcast ShowBridging the Business Gap in Aesthetics: Why It Matters More Than EverIn this week’s Business of Aesthetics episode, host Michael Walker sits down with Dr. Carla Pierson, nurse practitioner and co-founder of Smiley Aesthetics, for a real conversation about something the industry doesn’t talk about enough, how a lack of business know-how is holding providers back. Carla shares her own journey, the common mistakes she sees every day, and practical ways to build a business that actually supports your skills and goals. Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck financially, this episode breaks down why understanding the business side isn’t optional, and what you can...2025-07-1652 min
Not Just Lip ServiceInside the Julie Horne Lip TrainingIn this episode, Mercedes Hester (Director of Training & Strategic Growth) and Paige Connor (Social Media Coordinator & Content Creator) take you behind the scenes of Smiley Aesthetics’ high-level partnership with world-renowned lip injector Julie Horne. From international logistics and live model demos to clinical breakthroughs and event planning lessons, they unpack what made this advanced lip filler training truly exceptional. Whether you're an injector, practice manager, or just obsessed with aesthetics, this episode dives deep into the future of lip augmentation, injector education, and how to create unforgettable training experiences.2025-07-1329 min
Beyond The HandshakeBuilding a Brand Together: How Two Sisters Grew Smiley Aesthetics into a Med Spa PowerhouseTwin sisters. One vision. Multi-million-dollar growth.In this powerful episode of Beyond The Handshake, Lucy sits down with Mary Smiley Ford and Carla Pierson, twin sisters and co-founders of Smiley Aesthetics, one of the fastest-growing medical aesthetics companies in the region.What started as a mobile injector business has rapidly scaled into a multi-million-dollar med spa brand with over $3M in revenue—and they’re just getting started.We dive into:How they built a business from scratch while juggling family and careersThe challenges (and...2025-07-0247 minNot Just Lip ServiceLaunching Smiley Aesthetics Rome: The Injector PerspectiveIn this episode of Not Just Lip Service, Tiana chats with Hollie and Meghan, two skilled injectors who helped launch the brand-new Smiley Aesthetics location in Rome, GA. They open up about the journey from independent practice to joining a growing aesthetics brand, what it’s like to build a client base in a new city, and how they’re making the Rome location feel like home.You’ll hear their thoughts on patient education, favorite treatments (hello, lip filler and Botox), and how collaboration, confidence, and culture have helped shape their experience. Whether you're...2025-06-2924 min
Medical Spa InsiderBuilding Success with Smiley Aesthetics: Compliance, Community and Collaboration“All medical providers just aren't taught the skills to own and operate a business successfully.” This week, AmSpa founder and CEO, Alex R. Thiersch, JD, speaks with Mary Smiley Ford, MSN, APRN, CRNA, and Carla Pierson, DNP, MBA, RN, identical twins and co-founders of Smiley Aesthetics in Nashville, Tennessee. They explore how their mission to empower med spa providers through compliance, clinical training and business support has fueled the growth of a platform powering over 140 independent med spas. In this conversation, you will hear:
How Smiley Aesthetics supports med spa owners with compliance, clinical training and business tools;
Why...2025-04-3036 minNot Just Lip ServiceIn-House Marketing for Med Spas: Why It Matters and How to Build ItIn this episode of Not Just Lip Service, Mary is joined by Paige, Smiley’s Marketing Coordinator, for a behind-the-scenes look at why in-house marketing is a game changer for med spas. They discuss the real differences between hiring outside marketing agencies versus building an internal marketing team, the unique benefits of having someone embedded in your brand, and how in-house marketing creates stronger connections with clients.Paige shares practical insights on how she learned the aesthetics industry from scratch, built brand consistency, and helps drive growth across Smiley’s locations. They also touch on t...2025-04-2837 minNot Just Lip ServiceFrom Beauty Bus to Brick & Mortar: Anna’s Journey in Aesthetic MedicineIn this special takeover episode of Not Just Lip Service, Marketing Director Tiana Timm sits down with Anna Fulmer, Smiley’s new Franklin Spa Manager, to talk about her incredible path from PACU nurse to mobile injector to managing one of our most beautiful brick-and-mortar locations.Anna shares candid insights about the realities of starting out as an independent injector, building a clientele from scratch (including on her Beauty Bus), and what made her transition into a full-time role with Smiley Aesthetics.Whether you're an aspiring injector, a current in...2025-04-1324 minNot Just Lip ServiceCounterfeit Botox & Unlicensed Injectors: Your Essential Guide to Safety in Medical AestheticsIn this must-hear episode of Not Just Lip Service, join Courtney, Smiley's Chief Legal Officer, and Shelley, our Director of Quality and Compliance, as they delve into the pressing issues of counterfeit Botox and unlicensed injectors. Discover the latest news and real-world insights on how these challenges impact both patients and medical providers. Learn actionable tips and best practices to ensure safety, uphold quality, and maintain compliance in the rapidly evolving medical aesthetics landscape. Whether you're a patient looking for secure treatments or a provider committed to excellence, this episode equips you with the essential knowledge to navigate the...2025-02-2347 minNot Just Lip ServiceInside the Gallatin Clinic: Client Connections, Growth Strategies, and Top Aesthetic TreatmentsJoin host Mercedes on this week’s episode of Not Just Lip Service as she sits down with Jennifer McKay, RN Injector, and Ashley Dickens, Esthetician, from Smiley Aesthetics’ new Gallatin location. Discover how this dynamic team is standing out in a crowded market by focusing on genuine communication, quality care, and client comfort. They also share their favorite treatments—from Scarlet RF Microneedling to Aqua Firm Facials—and offer advice on staying adaptable in a fast-growing industry. Whether you’re looking to boost your clinic’s client retention or simply curious about the latest aesthetic trends, you won’t want to miss...2025-01-1234 minNot Just Lip ServiceKPIs Unlocked: How Metrics Drive Financial and Client GrowthIn this episode of Not Just Lip Service, Carla is joined by Shelley, Smiley's Director of Quality and Compliance, to dive into the world of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Learn how to set actionable goals, measure success, and use metrics to boost your business performance. Discover how KPIs can help you achieve financial growth, improve service quality, and retain and attract more clients. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to help you take your business to the next level.
2024-12-2233 minNot Just Lip ServiceSkin Deep: Expert Skincare Tips for Nurse InjectorsDiscover the missing link between injectables and skincare
in Skin Deep: Expert Skincare Tips for Nurse
Injectors. This podcast is your go-to resource for expert advice on
achieving flawless results for your clients. In this episode, Anna Fulmer, a
licensed aesthetician and RN, and owner of The Beauty Bus, shares insider tips
on skin analysis, top product recommendations, and creating personalized
skincare regimens that enhance injectable outcomes. Perfect for nurse injectors
and skincare professionals looking to elevate their aesthetic practices.
2024-12-081h 12Not Just Lip ServiceMarketing Magic: A Deep DiveIn this episode, Paige, our social media coordinator with a marketing background, sits down with Carla, our COO, to discuss the fundamentals of marketing, branding, and customer relations. Paige shares her journey into the aesthetics industry, offering fresh insights and practical advice on how to effectively target your audience and build a brand that resonates. Tune in for a candid conversation on the intersection of strategy and creativity in today’s marketing landscape.
2024-11-2448 minNot Just Lip ServiceTime Management TechniquesJoin Shelly, Director of Quality and Compliance, and Vanessa, Director of Technical and Organizational Development at Smiley Aesthetics, as they explore essential time management techniques tailored for medspa professionals. This session offers nine actionable strategies, from completing quick tasks right away to identifying high-impact priorities, all designed to help you work smarter and minimize burnout. Perfect for medspa owners at any stage, this guide is designed to help you lead a more productive and balanced business. Tune in to discover how these tips can transform your approach to time management!
2024-11-1025 minNot Just Lip ServiceFrom Hospital to Hustle: The Aesthetic Injector's GuideJoin Mercedes and Holly, two seasoned aesthetics providers, as they share their firsthand experiences transitioning from the traditional hospital setting to the dynamic world of retail medicine. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities that come with this career shift. 2024-10-2745 minNot Just Lip ServiceThe Secret Lives of Smiley MomsEver wonder what goes on behind the scenes at Smiley Aesthetics? Well, get ready to dive into the 'Secret Lives of Smiley Moms'! Join Lori Smiley, our VP of Administration and mom to the Smiley twins, and Debbie Gold, VP of Operations and Mary’s mother-in-law, as they spill the tea on careers, family life, and their roles in the Smiley empire. From boardroom decisions to family dinners, we're getting the inside scoop – professional and family-style!
2024-10-1333 minNot Just Lip ServiceGlow Up: Your Guide to Radiant Skin*WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE AUDIO QUALITY IN THIS EPISODE
In this first part of our two-part series, Mary and Carla dive deep into the world of skincare. Join us as they discuss the best practices for creating an effective skincare routine and explore the key differences between over-the-counter and medical-grade products.
2024-09-2928 minNot Just Lip ServiceMarketing Mastery: Optimizing Your Medical Aesthetics PostsLooking to boost your medical aesthetics practice's online presence? Join Carla and Marketing Director Tiana Timm as they discuss essential strategies for creating engaging and effective social media posts. Discover how to craft compelling educational content, promote package deals and memberships, and offer flexible financing options to attract and retain clients. Learn proven techniques to optimize your posts for search engines and maximize your reach. Tune in to gain valuable insights and elevate your marketing game.
2024-09-0840 minNot Just Lip ServiceDocumenting for Success: Why Thorough and Accurate Records MatterAre you struggling with maintaining accurate and comprehensive client documentation in your medical aesthetics practice? In this episode, we explore the critical importance of thorough documentation and how it can protect you from potential regulatory issues. Discover practical tips for improving your documentation processes, including conducting regular quality reviews. Learn why robust documentation is essential for ensuring patient safety and compliance. Tune in to gain valuable insights and streamline your practice's record-keeping.
2024-08-2636 minNot Just Lip ServiceWhat is an MSO and how does it really play into Medical AestheticsCurious about MSOs and their role in the medical aesthetics industry? Join Carla and Courtney as they delve into the intricacies of Management Service Organizations. Discover how MSOs operate, their impact on medical practices, and the potential benefits and challenges they present. Learn about the factors to consider when partnering with an MSO and how to navigate this evolving business landscape. This episode offers valuable insights for medical aesthetics professionals seeking to understand the MSO model and make informed decisions for their practice.
2024-08-1133 minNot Just Lip ServiceUnmasking the Beauty Industry: Spotting Illegal Products and Understanding Model CallsAre you concerned about the safety of your beauty products? Mary and Carla dive deep into the world of illegal medical products, providing essential tips to help you identify counterfeit or unauthorized items. Learn how to protect yourself as a consumer by asking the right questions. Additionally, they demystify the role of a "model" in aesthetic training. Discover what to look for in model calls and ensure your safety when participating in such opportunities. Tune in to empower yourself with knowledge and make informed choices.
2024-07-2830 minNot Just Lip ServiceFirst Steps to Staffing Success: A Guide for New Spa ManagersCarla and Mary discuss some practical tips for new spa managers who are looking to begin hiring their first employees.
2024-06-3046 minNot Just Lip ServiceElevate Your Practice's Quality Control with Shelley ProctorWelcome to another exciting episode of "Not Just Lip Service!" In this episode, our Chief Legal Officer, Courtney Walker, introduces the newest member of the Smiley Aesthetics team, Shelley Proctor. With 20 years of experience in healthcare quality, Shelley joins us as the Director of Quality. Tune in as Shelley shares insights from her extensive background and discusses how she plans to elevate quality standards at Smiley Aesthetics. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, you'll learn practical tips on implementing a robust quality control plan in your practice. Don't miss this valuable conversation!
2024-06-0921 minNot Just Lip ServiceMedspa Money Management: A Basic Overview (Part 2)Ready to take control of your med spa finances? In part two of our series, Mary and Carla guide you through analyzing your P&L statement. Learn key expense categories, identify areas for improvement, and understand smart spending strategies. Gain valuable insights to boost your med spa's profitability.
2024-06-0245 minNot Just Lip ServiceMedspa Money Management: A Basic Overview(Part 1)Demystifying Medspa Finances: Part 1! Feeling overwhelmed by the financial side of your med spa? This episode is your first step to financial clarity! Mary and Carla offer a basic overview of managing your med spa's finances. Learn about essential expense categories, the importance of your Profit & Loss (P&L) statement, and foundational strategies for financial health. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll dive deeper into advanced techniques! Don't miss this essential guide for all med spa owners!
2024-05-2634 minNot Just Lip ServiceCounterfeit Botox, Unsafe Spas & Non-Compete ChaosThis episode tackles critical issues impacting the aesthetics industry. Mary and Carla address the dangers of counterfeit Botox, discuss the horrifying case of an unlicensed spa transmitting HIV through PRP, and unpack the recent FTC ruling on non-compete clauses from medspas owners standpoints. Learn how to protect yourself as a consumer and stay informed about these alarming trends. Don't miss this essential conversation for anyone considering aesthetic procedures!
2024-05-1233 minNot Just Lip ServiceNew Town, Thriving Med Spa: Holly Scott's Client-Winning StrategiesThis episode features Mary Smiley Ford, Founder & CEO of Smiley Aesthetics, in conversation with Holly Scott, a registered nurse and trailblazing med spa owner from North Georgia. Holly shares her inspiring journey of opening a med spa in a new town, navigating client acquisition strategies, and overcoming the challenges of being a solopreneur. Join Mary and Holly as they discuss the grit and resilience needed for success in the med spa industry, even when starting from scratch. Learn valuable tips for building a thriving business in unfamiliar territory.
2024-05-0534 minNot Just Lip ServiceAspiring Aesthetics Professionals? Mindset & Pre-Launch Prep for SuccessDreaming of owning a med spa? This episode equips aspiring aesthetics professtionals with the knowledge to thrive! Smiley Aesthetics' VP of Injector Growth joins Carla for a deep dive into the essential mindset and realistic expectations for launching a successful medical aesthetics business. Learn valuable self-evaluation techniques and practical steps to prepare yourself before entering this exciting market. Don't miss this roadmap to success in the world of aesthetics!
2024-04-2841 minNot Just Lip ServiceConquer Your Med Spa: Inventory, Funding & Post-Launch ChallengesIndependent med spa owners, this episode's for you! Mary and Carla answer your most pressing questions on managing inventory, explore diverse funding options to fuel your growth, and unpack the challenges you might face after launch. Learn how to optimize stock levels, navigate financing solutions, and overcome common post-launch hurdles. Join us for actionable tips and insights to ensure your med spa thrives!
2024-04-0745 minNot Just Lip ServiceReady to Quit? Rethink Your Business Reboot!Feeling the burn? We all grapple with wanting to throw in the towel at some point. This week, Mary and Carla tackle the emotional rollercoaster of business ownership. They explore common "quitting whispers" entrepreneurs face and offer practical strategies to combat them. Learn how to assess your true commitment and reignite your passion before you pack it in! This episode is your pep talk to push through and find your path to success.
2024-04-0145 minNot Just Lip ServiceFast Track to Success: The Smiley Injector Onboarding ExperienceCurious about becoming a Smiley Injector? Join Smiley Aesthetics' VP of Strategic Growth and Clinical Services along with the Director of Training and Strategic Growth for an insider's look! They answer your burning questions about the onboarding process, covering everything from training and compliance to what it takes to thrive as a Smiley Injector. Tune in and unlock the secrets to joining our successful team!
2024-03-2444 minNot Just Lip ServiceBeyond the Bad: Debunking Viral Aesthetics FailsThis week, Mary and Carla tackle the frenzy of viral aesthetic treatments gone wrong! They dissect recent pics and videos circulating online, offering their expert insights on what might have actually happened. Dive deeper with them as they explore why negativity often dominates conversations around aesthetics and medicine. Tune in for a balanced perspective and a healthy dose of reality!
2024-03-1737 minNot Just Lip ServiceExploring affects of Botulinum Toxin(Botox) beyond Aesthetics: A Mental Health ApproachIn this week’s episode, Founder and CEO Mary Ford MSN, APRN, CRNA hosts Dr. Amy Neff in a discussion of clinical review of the effects of Allergan branded Botox on mental health, specifically depression. With several clinical trials already completed, the data supports further research and has a very promising future. Dr. Neff and Smiley Aesthetics plan to partner and continue this research!
For more information on Dr. Neff and her practice go to her website. https://mindstreamintegrative.com/
2024-03-1032 minNot Just Lip ServiceDeep Dive into Medical Director Supervision and Practice SuccessIn this insightful episode, join us as the Chief Legal Officer (CLO) and our medical director of Smiley Aesthetics, TN come together for a candid conversation. Fresh from a day of in-person visits to each Smiley Aesthetics location, Courtney and Ryan delve into the intricacies of medical director supervision and oversight.
Get ready for an in-depth exploration of the risks, rewards, and potential pitfalls from the unique perspectives of both a Medical Director and APRN/RN. Whether you're already a part of the industry or contemplating entry, Courtney and Ryan share their valuable tips...2024-02-2040 minNot Just Lip ServiceToo Much Growth and BurnoutIn this week’s episode, founders Mary and Carla discuss how their growth has affected their personal lives as moms, wives, avid runners, and overall busy women! They discuss how too much growth can be a bad thing, and knowing how to time manage and recognize signs of burnout are so important
2024-02-1146 minNot Just Lip ServiceNavigating the Aesthetics Frontier with Donna Smailis, PAIn this episode, host Carla Pierson is joined by special guest Donna Smailis for a captivating conversation. Tune in as they explore Donna's unique journey as a Physician Assistant, recounting her initial venture into the mobile business realm as a way to break free from the confines of mainstream medicine. The discussion unfolds, detailing Donna's evolution from a solo entrepreneur to forging partnerships and eventually becoming an integral part of a med spa as an employee.
Discover the intricacies of Donna's professional transitions and the reasons behind her choice to navigate the diverse landscapes of the medical...2024-02-0447 minNot Just Lip ServiceA Look Ahead
In this week's episode, Carla and Mary reunite to delve into what lies ahead for Smiley Aesthetics in the coming year. They draw connections applicable to medspas of any size and offer insights into strategies you can implement to kick off the year on the right note!
Follow Smiley Aesthetics on Patreon for an abundance of additional videos, documents, webinars, and content covering the clinical, business, legal, and marketing facets of medical aesthetics!
2024-01-2840 minNot Just Lip ServiceAn Overview of TrainingIn this week's episode, our Vice President of Training and Clinical Services Cira Monnig and our Vice President of Strategic Growth and one of our lead trainers Adriane Rohrer discuss our training program and their views on the medical aesthetics world of training.
2024-01-1437 minNot Just Lip ServiceThe "Why Nots" of IV InfusionsIn this week's episode, Smiley Aesthetics' Chief Legal Officer Courtney Walker and Vice President of Training and Clinical Services Cira Monnig go into detail on the clinical and compliance issues with providing IV infusions. We are always so quick to want to add services. Are we really weighing the risks over benefits when we do? Or do we just see dollar signs?
Follow us on Instagram @smileyaesthetics_ , @injectorsmiley, @courtapprovedaesthetics, @csmileyinjector and @smileyaesthetics_missouri for clinical, legal, and business medical aesthetic tips!
We are also on Patreon at Smiley Aesthetics - where we...2024-01-0720 minNot Just Lip ServiceA Look Back at 2023!In this week’s episode, owner and CEO Mary Smiley Ford and owner and COO Carla Smiley Pierson look back at 2023 and the decisions made for the company that were both positive and negative. Learning from all decisions is what they believe has continued to propel Smiley Aesthetics forward and will be the foundation for a successful launch into 2024.
https://smileyaesthetics.com
2023-12-3147 minNot Just Lip ServiceIdentical Twin Entrepreneurs: What Is That Like?!?In this week's episode, Mary and Carla discuss being identical twin entrepreneurs. They have an informal, open conversation about what it is like to be in identical twin entrepreneurs and how their life experiences have impacted Smiley Aesthetics. They also answer the ever present question "Is there really weird twin connections?!"2023-12-2257 minNot Just Lip ServiceMedical Tourism with Vanessa PeclyIn this episode, Carla interviews fellow entrepreneur Vanessa Pecly, owner of My Body By Design, a medical tourism company based out of Atlanta. They discuss entrepreneurial life but also dive into Vanessa's company, discussing what medical tourism is and dispelling some common misconceptions!2023-12-1050 minNot Just Lip ServiceTemplate used to setupTemplate used for setup
2023-12-0802 minNot Just Lip ServiceA Mobile Medspa Success Story with Mercedes HesterIn this episode, Carla is joined by Mercedes, an once independent mobile medspa owner with Smiley turned full time Smiley employee. They discuss how she was successful and why she decided to become an employee.
2023-12-0337 minNot Just Lip ServiceA Day in the Life of Medical Spa Owners
In this episode, Carla and Mary discuss what their days look like each day and how they fit it all in - a common question they both get. The conversation leads into some tips and ways they have found to make things easier or more efficient in their daily life!
2023-10-2259 minNot Just Lip ServiceDiscounts, Sales Reps, and Fund Raising in Your Medspa
In this episode, our kids are present. Enough said. Joke - kinda. We discuss tips on how to deal with family and friend discounts, clients and discounts, sales reps, and when it might be time to consider raising money in your medical aesthetics business.
2023-10-1530 min
We Are PCEpisode 34-Pizza ToppingsWhat are students' favorite pizza toppings? The most overrated toppings? Best idea for a new pizza topping? Join PCMS students Dalton Bergman, Pierson Smith, Noah Jackson and Julian Curry to find out!2022-10-1409 min
Mostly FolkMostly Folk Episode 120 (10/29/15) Somewhere at NERFA part 3Send us a textDavey O./Man In Motion/No PassengersMollie O'Brien & Rich Moore/ West Virginia, My Home/Love RunnerKaryn Oliver/Drown/MagdaleneJim Photoglo/Halls of My Heart/Halls of My HeartEmily Pinkerton/Open Bottle/ValparaisoHeather Pierson Acoustic Trio /Still She Will Fly/Still She Will FlyJeffrey Pepper Rodgers/Stop, Drop, and Roll/Stop, Drop, and RollTracie Potochnik/Jimmy Took the Money/The DreamDavid Roth/Does Joni Mitchell Ever Mow the Lawn/So F...2015-10-291h 40