Shows
The Thick PodEpisode 36: Friendship BreakupsYou expect breakups in dating. You don’t expect them with your best friend. This week, Michelle and Kelsey are talking about one of the most gut-wrenching, confusing, and least talked about experiences: the friendship breakup.After Kelsey opened up online about losing friends during her weight loss and glow-up journey, so many of you shared your own stories and we knew we had to dive deeper. We’re sharing our personal experiences with growing apart, navigating toxic dynamics, and learning to protect our peace (even when it hurts).From setting boundaries to realizing someone was...2025-04-2823 minThe Thick PodEpisode 35: It’s Slump Season - How To Pull Yourself UpWe’ve been there and honestly, we still go there. In this week’s episode, Michelle and Kelsey are talking all about the slump. That heavy, stuck, low-energy feeling that so many of us (especially women) go through sometimes without even realizing it.We’re sharing the real, tangible things that help us climb out of those funks, from texting a trusted friend to planning a solo day date, dressing up just because, leaning into our spiritual practices, reconnecting with nature, or even booking that trip we’ve been putting off.This isn’t about fixing eve...2025-04-2134 minThe Thick PodEpisode 34: You Do Not Exist For Other People’s ComfortIn this week’s episode, Michelle and Kelsey get real about what it means to evolve in front of an audience and how not everyone is going to love the new version of you. After both sharing recent posts about how some people preferred them in bigger bodies, they dive into the deeper truth: it’s not your job to stay the same for someone else’s comfort.We also talk about the emotional weight of showing up online, especially when it comes to something as personal as weight loss. This conversation was sparked by a recent contro...2025-04-1444 minThe Thick PodEpisode 33: Beauty, Brains & Bora Bora with Brandis Bradley & her bestie Crystal BoothThis week, we’re joined by our radiant, powerhouse friend Brandis Bradley aka @makeupartistatlaw along with her bestie and business baddie Crystal Booth @missfizz_ founder of Fizz Facial Bar!We met Brandis on a Tarte brand trip to Bora Bora last year, and we instantly knew she was that girl. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of her wild and inspiring journey from putting herself through law school, becoming a practicing attorney, going viral on TikTok, and most recently launching her own clothing line, Dress Out Loud, on QVC. They share how their friendship turned...2025-04-0745 minThe Thick PodEpisode 32: Our Social Media IcksThis week, Michelle and Kelsey are back for a virtual pod chat and we’re talking icks specifically, social media icks. We share pet peeves that make us want to scroll faster as well as read some of yours! We’re airing it all out. But it’s not just a vent session, we also share some of our favorite best practices when it comes to creating content and building community online. Plus, we dive into the behind-the-scenes chaos of PR organization: where does it all go? How do we manage the constant flow of packages? And is a separa...2025-03-3139 minThe Thick PodEpisode 31: The Influencer Burnout Spiral & NYC ControversyIn this episode of The Thick Podcast, Michelle and Kelsey dive into the hot topic of the viral “influencers in New York” video trending currently. They share their thoughts on the conversation surrounding influencers, internet culture, and public perception. Then, they share about the highs and lows of being a full-time creator, burnout, the slumps, the pressure to perform, and the toll that mean comments and view counts can take on creativity. How do you stay motivated? How do you separate your self-worth from social media metrics? Michelle and Kelsey open up about navigating the emotional rollercoaster of social medi...2025-03-2434 minThe Thick PodEpisode 30: Current Events - Reddit Trolls, Blake Lively drama & the TikTok BanIn this episode, Michelle and Kelsey dive into some wild current events—both personal and pop culture. Kelsey shares her experience after ending up on a Reddit snark thread, how she handles troll comments, and the reality of dealing with online criticism. Then, Michelle fills Kelsey in on all the drama surrounding Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. After that, they discuss the latest on the TikTok ban, what it means for them as creators working with brands, and their thoughts on the platform’s future. Finally, they wrap up by reading some of their favorite troll comments—both ridiculous and su...2025-02-2457 minThe Thick PodEpisode 29: Coming Out, Self-Discovery & Building a Healthy Relationship with Food with Nichole (@ohhiitsnichole)In this episode, Michelle and Kelsey sit down with their good friend Nichole (@ohhiitsnichole) to talk about her journey of self-discovery, coming out as queer after growing up in a deeply religious environment, and how that realization impacted her relationships with friends and family. Nichole also shares her experience as a content creator, her GLP-1 weight loss journey, and how she’s built a platform centered around developing a healthy relationship with food. She’s a bright, sparkly soul, and her story is one that will resonate with so many. Whether you’re navigating your own journey or just love h...2025-02-1737 minThe Thick PodEpisode 28: Life on GLP-1—Our Maintenance Journey, Workouts & Finding BalanceIn this episode, Michelle and Kelsey give a full update on their GLP-1 journey—where they’re at with maintenance after losing over 100 pounds, their current dosages, and what life looks like on the medication now. They also dive into physical activity, sharing how they incorporate movement into their daily lives. Michelle talks about her previous experience doing 75 Hard and kickboxing and how she now incorporates strength training as her exercise of choice. Kelsey shares how she balances working out at home with three kids and what staying active looks like for her. Whether you’re on a GLP-1, consid...2025-02-1027 minThe Thick PodEpisode 27: HOT TOPICS: Fires, Frenemies & Feeling out of Placen 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.2025-02-0324 minThe Thick PodEpisode 26: Trippin’ with Tarte Tea on Necker IslandIn 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!2025-01-2746 minThe Thick PodEpisode 25: “Building Brand Relationships and Laughing at Ourselves”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...2025-01-2335 minThe Thick PodEpisode 24: “2025: dream it, plan it, do it”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 moti...2025-01-1331 minThe Thick PodEpisode 23: Holiday Catch-Up & The TikTok Ban: What It Means for CreatorsAfter 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!2025-01-0623 minThe Thick PodEpisode 22: Episode Title: Alle Brean aka Influenced Queens on Mastering TikTok ShopIn 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 to...2024-11-1839 minThe Thick PodEpisode 21: Live Q&A: Your Questions Answered LIVE!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.2024-11-1128 minThe Thick PodEpisode 20: Leveling Up as a Beauty Content Creator with Sonia ElyssIn 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...2024-11-0451 minThe Thick PodEpisode 19: Breaking the Stigma: GLP-1 Weight LossIn 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!2024-10-2859 minThe Thick PodEpisode 18: From Disney to Hollywood: Hairstyling for the Big Screen with Cassie RussekIn 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...2024-10-2148 minThe Thick PodEpisode 17: Brand Trips, Trolls, and a Juicy New York PrankIn 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.2024-10-1435 minThe Thick PodEpisode 16: Beyond the Surface: Pretty Privilege & Public PerceptionMichelle, 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.2024-10-0724 minThe Thick PodEpisode 15: Breaking the Obesity BiasMichelle 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.2024-09-3034 minThe Thick PodEpisode 14: Behind the Brush - Celebrity Hair & Makeup Artist BlondieJoin 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.2024-09-2338 minThe Thick PodEpisode 13: Mirror, Mirror: Navigating Body DysmorphiaMichelle 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.2024-09-1629 minThe Thick PodEpisode 12: THE HUSBANDS Q&A: PART 2This 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!2024-09-0934 minThe Thick PodEpisode 11: THE HUSBANDS Q&A: PART 1You 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.2024-09-0226 minThe Thick PodEpisode 10: Maintaining on a GLP-1 medication after losing 100 poundsWhat 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-1.2024-08-2630 minThe Thick PodEpisode 9: A manifestation & spiritual journey with AnnieOne 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. 2024-08-1945 minThe Thick PodEpisode 8: Q&A Part 1: Sex after Weightloss & TikTok ShopPart 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 2024-08-1245 minThe Thick PodEpisode 7: “Why Not You?” self love talk with Dr Joy Bracey!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. 2024-08-0550 minThe Thick PodEpisode 6: All things Plastic: a Plastic Surgery DEEP DIVEThe 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.2024-07-2951 minThe Thick PodEpisode 5: Becoming full-time Content Creators!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.2024-07-2255 minThe Thick PodEpisode 4: We went TRIPPIN' WITH TARTE in BORA BORAWe 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.2024-07-1542 minThe Thick PodEpisode 3: Internet trolls & the dark side of content creationInternet 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.2024-07-0840 minThe Thick PodEpisode 1: Getting into the thick of our past by interviewing each otherGetting 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. 2024-07-011h 03The Thick PodEpisode 2: Proud CHEATERS and the wild world of GLP1 weight lossProud 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.2024-07-0146 minThe Thick PodThe Thick Pod - Teaser2024-06-2412 min