On this week’s episode, celebrity skincare expert and aesthetic specialist Nurse Jamie tells Hillary Kerr about the latest innovations and non-invasive beauty treatments on the market, breaks down the difference and many uses of filler and Botox, and explains the benefits of lasers. As the skin guru to celebrities like Khloé Kardashian, Jessica Alba, and Hillary herself, we’re all ears. To check out the masterful beauty results Nurse Jamie achieves for yourself—without ever picking up a scalpel—watch her Netflix series, Skin Decision.

Amanda Kloots is the ultimate multi-hyphenate. She is the founder of AK! Fitness, where she has developed her signature fitness method; is co-founder of the give-back apparel company Hooray For alongside her sister; and is a co-host on CBS’s The Talk. As of June 15, she is also a published author with the debut of her memoir, Live Your Life: My Story of Loving and Losing Nick Cordero, in which she shares her 95-day struggle and love story with her husband, who tragically passed last July due to COVID-19. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Kloots’s 17-year career as a professional dancer on Broadway and as a Rockette gave her the perseverance and grit to build the multifaceted career she has today.

On this episode of the show, Drew Elovitz, our director of content strategy and senior managing editor, takes us behind the scenes of our June cover story with three of the cast members from the upcoming Gossip Girl—Zión Moreno, Jordan Alexander, and Emily Alyn Lind. As a superfan of the original show, Drew asks the talented cast everything you want to know about this new era of Gossip Girl, including what to expect from the elusive characters and how their world has changed over the 10 years since the original.

Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg, co-founders and co-CEOs of trusted news source TheSkimm, completely changed the way millennials consume news by creating a platform that delivers digestible current content. Since its launch in 2012, TheSkimm has expanded its offerings through producing two top-rated podcasts, multiple events, countless videos, TheSkimm app, Skimm Well, and Skimm Money. Its initial product, the Daily Skimm, remains the fastest-growing newsletter on the market with over seven million subscribers. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Zakin and Weisberg’s early careers in major news organizations like MSNBC, The Daily Beast, and NBC led them to disrupt traditional news media forever.

Jenny Beavan is a prolific costume designer, having won her first Academy Award in 1987 for A Room With a View, and again for Mad Max: Fury Road. Most recently, she’s responsible for the works of art in the live-action feature film Cruella, starring Emma Stone. In this episode, Jenny tells us about her inspirations for the stunning fashion throughout the movie and takes us behind the scenes of creating a visual world for a major motion picture.

With the launch of her first show alongside Dax Shepard in 2018, Monica Padman became one of the biggest podcasters in the game. That year, Armchair Expert was the most-downloaded podcast of the year and won iHearts Radio’s Best New Podcast Award. Today, the Armchair Umbrella Network hosts a slew of other successful shows (Monica and Jess Love Boys, Nurture vs Nurture, Experts on Expert, etc.), most of which Padman co-hosts and all of which she produces. But back before Padman’s insightful and charming voice was living in our heads rent-free, her idea of success was to land a job acting—specifically, on the next Friends. On this episode, hear how Padman found herself on a path beyond her wildest dreams by embracing what unfolded in front of her.

Katie Sturino is a digital influencer, body-acceptance advocate, and entrepreneur empowering women of all sizes to find their confidence and celebrate their style through her regular content series #SuperSizeTheLook and #MakeMySize. Her personal-care brand Megababe invents genius products such as Bust Dust for boob sweat, Thigh Rescue for thigh chafe, and the Le Tush Butt Mask, and on May 25 she published her first book, Body Talk: How to Embrace Your Body and Start Living Your Best Life. On this episode, Katie and Hillary talk about finding self-acceptance within the fashion industry, Katie’s favorite size-inclusive brands, and why Hillary needs a pair of crocs.

Tiffany Masterson, the founder of renowned beauty and skincare brand Drunk Elephant, built a skincare empire around her philosophy of ingredient elimination for a total skin reset, avoiding six ingredients she believed were at the root of her skin issues. Since the launch in 2013, Drunk Elephant now offers over 30 products, has signed an exclusive U.S. distribution deal with Sephora, and was acquired by leading global beauty company Shiseido Americas for $845 million dollars—one of the biggest acquisitions for a skincare brand to date. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Masterson’s many career lives—from real estate agent to production assistant to mother of four—led her to extensive ingredient research that not only changed her skin, but also thousands of others.

If for some reason you don’t know celebrity stylist Sophie Lopez, you definitely know her work. With a client list that includes Kate Hudson, Goldie Hawn, Ashley Madekwe, and Yalitza Aparicio, Lopez has an expertise that's coveted within fashion. On this week’s episode, hear how she hustled her way from working in menswear at GQ and freelancing for bands such as Muse to styling dazzling looks for the red carpet and beyond.

Meena Harris is the ultimate multi-hyphenate. She’s a New York Times Best-Selling Author for her children's book, Kamala and Maya's Big Idea, a highly-esteemed attorney, and the founder of the groundbreaking lifestyle brand Phenomenal. Since its launch in 2016, Harris has evolved the Phenomenal brand into Phenomenal Media and Phenomenal Productions—a female-driven media brand and creative agency that supports underrepresented communities through activism-focused campaigns and products. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Harris's impressive past career at major tech companies like Facebook, Slack, and Uber, combined with her experience as an attorney in consumer protection, data, privacy, and cybersecurity lead her to build her own brand making a positive impact.

From Hollywood to high fashion, there are few names in the beauty industry that garner as much respect as makeup artist Pati Dubroff. In this episode, Pati takes us through her career—from working with ’90s supermodels including Christy Turlington to photographers Peter Lindberg and Annie Leibovitz to red carpet glam for Margot Robbie and Priyanka Chopra. Plus, find out her expert tips, tricks, and beauty must-haves.

Vanessa Dew has always loved science (especially when it comes to helping the body’s overall health), which is why there is no surprise she is the co-founder and chief sales officer behind wellness brand Health-Ade Kombucha. Since its launch in 2012 at a local Los Angeles farmers market, Dew has expanded the brand into 35,000 stores, including Whole Foods, Target, and Trader Joe's, with ever-expanding flavors and products. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Dew’s past career at massive pharmaceutical companies—including Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline—led to introducing the nation to the probiotic tea we’ve come to know and love.

This week, actress and best-selling author Busy Philipps brings us behind the scenes of her new show, the Tina Fey–produced Girls5eva, where she plays one of four members of a girl group making a comeback in their 40s. Philipps dishes on her favorite looks from the show as well as her personal style IRL, including the brands that contribute to her whimsical wardrobe and next-level necklace game. 

Laura Modi, mom, entrepreneur, and CEO and co-founder of Bobbie—the only female-founded and mom-led infant formula company in the United States—is changing the industry for parents and their children for the better. Modi launched Bobbie nationally in January of 2021 and was determined to destigmatize the use of formula, something that 83% of parents will turn to. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Modi’s positions at mega tech companies such as Google and Airbnb equipped her with lifelong lessons that eventually catapulted her into creating the first FDA-approved organic, European-style infant formula the U.S. has ever seen.

Wayman and Micah are among the most powerful and influential stylists in Hollywood with a client roster including Regina King, Tessa Thompson, Mary J. Blige, and Kiki Layne, and a coveted spot on The Hollywood Reporter’s list of Top 10 Stylists of the Decade. On this week’s episode, Wayman and Micah tell Hillary about their meet-cute at a house party in 2008, how they strategized for Regina King’s stunning awards show season, and some of their favorite looks of all time.

Rachel Rodgers is a prime example of someone who is  breaking the glass ceiling. She is the CEO and founder of Hello Seven, a female-run company dedicated to teaching women of all backgrounds how to increase their income and build wealth without sacrificing their sanity in the process. Through her podcast and online club, We Should All Be Millionaires: The Club, Rodgers reaches over 50,000 women a week, empowering them to change the systematic cycle of overworking and underearning. On May 4, she releases her highly anticipated book, We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman's Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power. Hear how Rodgers’ first life as a lawyer propelled her to become a business coach, CEO, and self-made millionaire, on this episode of Second Life.

First up is the Nigerian American sister duo VanJess from our annual Ones to Watch in Music portfolio, a curated spotlight of the rising female artists to know. Ivana and Jessica Nwokiki tell Hillary about finding their unique sound (think ’90s R&B meets house meets soul), creating their beloved EP Homegrown during the lockdown, and how they use fashion in their work. Then, brow guru Kristie Streicher breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to ask an expert about brows—from treatments to products to the 411 on lamination.

Known and loved for its range of delectable spice flavors and aromatics, Diaspora Co.’s mission goes beyond highlighting indigenous spices. Founder Sana Javeri Kadri set out with the intention to work toward a radically equitable, sustainable, and modern spice supply chain by fostering integral relationships with farmworkers in India. Since its launch in 2017, Diaspora Co. now works with 150 farm partners and 1000 farmworkers, with the goal to provide health insurance for every farmworker by the end of 2021. Born in Mumbai, Javeri Kadri has always been at the intersection of food and culture, working in various roles within the food industry, from waitress and farmworker to photographer and marketing consultant. On this episode of Second Life, find out how each of those career experiences led her to make a lasting impact on a broken system.

This week, Hillary passes the torch to our senior beauty editor, Erin Jahns, who interviews our April cover star, the singer, songwriter, and Golden Globe–winning, Oscar-nominated, Andra Day! Andra has been stirring our emotions via her deeply soulful music since her debut album, Cheers to the Fall, in 2015, but in her recent role in The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, she has shown the world a new side of her creativity entirely. Andra tells Erin about entering a profound new phase of her career, her personal connection to Billie’s story, and the beauty and fashion influences throughout history that she draws upon in her personal style.

Leigh Davenport is the ultimate creative multi-hyphenate. She is a talented director, writer, and producer creating modern content at the intersection of woke and whimsical that shifts the narratives surrounding women of color. After spending 15 years in the entertainment and editorial industries, holding impressive positions like producer at BET and VH1 and editorial director of the leading lifestyle site HelloBeautiful.com, Davenport is releasing her own scripted series, Run the World, on Starz this May that is inspired by her own life in New York. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Davenport found the courage to move to L.A. to pursue a career in writing and producing and has since become a modern voice in television.

In the latest episode of Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr, Hillary speaks with actress Rachel Bilson about her iconic fashion throughout her career, the best style lessons she learned from her notorious character, Summer Roberts, and everything we can expect from her upcoming podcast, Welcome to the O.C., Bitches. Then, she chats with the celebrity esthetician behind Hollywood’s most flawless faces, Shani Darden, who dishes on the best way to take care of your skin (underneath your mask), her favorite products for every skin type, and the latest beauty hype.

Robin Berzin, MD, has become a modern voice in healthcare and wellness by creating Parsley Health. Its mission is to bring accessible, functional medicine to the masses, mixing Eastern and Western medical philosophies. Today, Parsley Health is the nation’s largest holistic medical service available nationwide via its telehealth offerings, plus in-person care centers in NY and L.A. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Berzin’s past careers—from paralegal to producer at Oprah’s Harpo Productions to co-founder of a healthcare communication platform to yoga healer—led her to reimagine health and wellness for everyone.

Brandon Maxwell is a creative force in the fashion industry. In 2015, after making a name for himself as a celebrity stylist and the fashion director for Lady Gaga, he became a celebrated designer with the launch of his eponymous line of luxury women’s ready-to-wear, worn by everyone from Meghan Markle to Jane Fonda to Oprah. Now, he’s expanding his fashion influence even further in his latest role as the creative director of Walmart’s elevated brands, Free Assembly and Scoop. In this episode, Brandon and Hillary discuss the many facets of Brandon’s creativity, his biggest takeaways from slowing down in 2020, and the perspective he’s bringing to his new role.

To shop all of Brandon’s Free Assembly and Scoop picks from this episode, head to: https://www.whowhatwear.com/who-what-wear-podcast-brandon-maxwell

Known for her editorial eye and unique perspective, Aya Kanai has become a force in the fashion industry over the last 20 years. Kanai has held esteemed positions at notable publications, including Teen Vogue, Nylon, Cosmopolitan, and Amazon’s Shopbop.com, and eventually became the editor in chief of the U.S. edition of Marie Claire magazine. Today, Kanai is the head of content and editorial partnerships at one of the world’s largest visual-discovery and creator platforms, Pinterest. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Kanai went from working as a puppeteer to climbing the media ladder to ultimately manifesting her creative role at Pinterest, where she continues to share her voice and inspired style.

In the third episode of Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr, Hillary speaks with the stylist, fashion adviser, and image strategist, Meredith Koop, about her decade-long relationship styling Michelle Obama. Meredith takes us through her creative process of using fashion as a tool for storytelling—from the White House to the Becoming book tour to the 2021 Presidential Inauguration and beyond. Hear why she doesn't believe in fashion rules, the importance of a good zipper, and everything she plans to do next in her career. Then, Hillary is joined by her Who What Wear co-founder, Katherine Power, to talk through everything that went into creating Katherine’s fourth brand, the game-changing, clean, minimalist makeup line, Merit. 

Athena Calderone is a modern multidisciplinary creative—from interior designer and tastemaker to author and lifestyle expert—inspiring people to connect with thoughtfully designed spaces and culinary delights through her website EyeSwoon. She has also written two books, the James Beard Award–winning Cook Beautiful and best-selling Live Beautiful, and hosts the More Than One Thing podcast. But before Calderone was inspiring her community of over 600K to live and cook beautifully, she tried her hand at many other creative pursuits, including dancing, method acting, and modeling. On this episode of Second Life, hear about her circuitous route to uncovering her vocation at the intersection of food and design.

Our Spring Issue has arrived, and our cover star is four-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers! Hillary and Phoebe discuss how aesthetics play a role in the musician’s persona and art. Phoebe shares her favorite products and brands, explains why she loves couture, pajamas, and bleaching her hair, and reveals how heavy that custom Gucci pearl rib cage she wore on SNL really was. Then, Who What Wear Editor in Chief Kat Collings gives us a deep dive into what else you can expect from this year’s Spring Issue, including a breakdown of our coveted trend report.

JJ Martin, the creative force and founder behind iconic Italian lifestyle brand La DoubleJ, has built a brand that exuberates her playful, bold energy and maximalist design eye. After spending 17 years as a journalist at notable international publications like Harper's Bazaar and WSJ, Martin decided to start her own brand, selling her curated vintage clothing collection. Today, Martin has evolved La DoubleJ beyond a fashion brand and into a lifestyle brand featuring mood-boosting home goods, accessories, and beauty products. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Martin tapped into her extensive global network and her creative strengths to manifest a brand that not only empowers people to be bold but that also embodies her soul.

Welcome to our new show, Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr! In our very first episode, Hillary sits down with two visionaries in fashion. First up is Law Roach, the image architect, a costume designer, and a judge on HBO Max’s Legendary. Law talks about his work for Zendaya—who he’s been styling since she was 14—Celine Dion’s fashion transformation of 2016, and his best tips for buying vintage. Then, designer Sergio Hudson takes us behind the scenes of his creative process in dressing women like Michelle Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris, who both wore his designs at the 2021 presidential inauguration. Plus, his best advice for creating the perfect ’fit and his thoughts on how the pandemic has forever changed the fashion industry. 

Head over to the Who What Wear With Hillary Kerr podcast page to subscribe now!

Dr. Deepika Chopra is one of a kind. Known as the Optimism Doctor, she is a visual imagery and media expert and the founder of Thing Are Looking Up. Chopra’s unique specialization and perspective fuses holistic practices with science-backed, “evidence-based manifestations” to help people cultivate their own sense of lasting happiness, resiliency, and success. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Chopra's many career paths—from interning at a punk music label to investment banking—helped her manifest a career in empowering others to unlock their ultimate potential, inner optimism, and self-worth. 

Julia Turshen, a best-selling cookbook author, reputable food writer, food advocate and founder of Equity at the Table, and podcast host, is defining what it means to be a modern, authentic author and food extraordinaire. Turshen has written three renowned cookbooks, winning prestigious awards like The New York Times best seller, Eater’s Best Cookbook of the Year, and Amazon’s Best Cookbook. Now, she’s releasing a fourth cookbook, Simply Julia, on March 2, highlighting her unique perspective on healthy comfort foods. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Turshen’s past life as a private chef influenced her voice and perspective and ultimately enabled her to fuse her passions of food and writing to create a beloved career.

If you’re familiar with astrology, chances are you have come across the exceptionally talented astrologer and New York Times best-selling author Chani Nicholas. Nicholas has dedicated the last 20 years to guiding people to live their life’s purpose through understanding astrology beyond their birth chart reading. Her brand has evolved into various platforms, including her website, Chani app, and book, You Were Born for This: Astrology for Radical-Self Acceptance,  where she connects astrology with current events, activism, social responsibility, and self-healing. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Nicholas was able to turn her passion into a career after holding multiple different jobs—from yoga therapist to bartender—and how she continues to learn and heal from astrology.

Grace Mahary is a woman of many accolades: international model, activist, and certified sommelier—to name a few. Mahary has become a familiar face on iconic designer runways, including Givenchy as an exclusive her first fashion week, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and more. Through her vast travels as a model, Mahary witnessed firsthand the many communities experiencing energy poverty. Thus, she founded Project Tsehigh with the mission to provide sustainable and renewable solutions. In 2019, Mahary took a break from the runways to add yet another facet to her career when she became a certified sommelier and eventually a restaurateur. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Mahary continuously evolves her multi-hyphenate career and works to level out the playing field across every industry she touches.

New York Pilates Founder and Owner Heather Andersen knows a thing or two about a pivot. After injuries sustained as a professional dancer led her to the practice of Pilates, she became enthralled with the beneficial effects she saw in her own body. Soon, she became a full-time instructor, and she eventually saved enough to open a studio of her own. From one studio to six locations, building a cult-like following along the way, New York Pilates became one of the buzziest fitness studios in New York. But when the pandemic hit, Andersen was forced to pivot yet again. On this week’s episode of Second Life, hear how she’s built out her digital studio, widening the brand’s footprint and reaching a global audience—plus her best advice for entrepreneurs looking to get their own business off the ground.

In 2015, Rachel Drori saw a gap in the health and food industry and seized the moment to create something new that would change the way Americans ate daily. Drori founded Daily Harvest, a brand dedicated to making organic, healthy foods accessible and convenient—no matter your hectic work schedule. Since its launch, the brand has grown its offerings into 75 items across nine collections available nationwide that are prepackaged in 100% compostable and recyclable packaging and delivered directly onto your doorstep. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Drori used her past career in marketing at major companies such as Gilt Groupe and American Express to propel herself forward and build a brand that is making a difference.

Lilly Singh has proven to be a woman who can truly do it all—from being a comic and YouTube sensation with over 15 million subscribers to becoming a NYT best-selling author and actor. It’s no surprise she’s landed on lists like TIME’s Most Influential People on the Internet and Fast Company’s Most Creative People. In Singh’s latest role, she’s both center stage and behind the scenes as TV host and executive producer of NBC’s A Little Late with Lilly Singh, making her the only female currently on late-night television. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Singh went from studying psychology to finding happiness through content creation and letting go of her “plan B.”

Dr. Barbara Sturm, renowned aesthetics doctor, entrepreneur, and beauty innovator, completely transformed the beauty industry through her unique approach to science-backed skincare. In 2014, she launched her eponymous skincare brand, Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics, which includes a diverse range of products sold in major retailers around the world and most importantly celebrates all skin types. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Dr. Sturm used a medical background in orthopedics as a basis for her skincare philosophy—one that’s garnered a cult-like following and made her one of the most sought-after beauty professionals in the world.

Kim Malek, the CEO and co-founder of iconic ice-cream brand Salt & Straw, has completely modernized the ice-cream industry by creating a brand whose ethos goes beyond the delicious dessert. Malek has built an unparalleled brand through a unique business strategy focused on building a community, supporting local artisans and farmers, and continually creating custom, one-of-a-kind ice-cream flavors. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Malek merged her past marketing careers at notable brands like Starbucks and Yahoo! to catapult her dream of starting an ice-cream business into a reality.

Elaine Welteroth is one of the most inspiring women in the media industry. She was named the youngest EIC at the helm of a major Condé Nast publication before becoming a New York Times best-selling author, award-winning journalist, producer, and television host. Welteroth is also a powerful voice in the movement of change, as she was recently appointed Cultural Ambassador for Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote campaign and now hosts a new podcast Built to Last, which amplifies the stories of Black founders, past and present. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Welteroth continually evolves her career while remaining grounded in who she is.

June Ambrose is one of fashion’s most influential stylists, costumer designers, and image architects and is now the creative director of Puma. Through her extensive years of experience, Ambrose has established a name for herself styling and creating custom pieces for notable clientele, including Jay-Z, Will Smith, Missy Elliott, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Lizzo, and more. Therefore, it may come as a surprise that Ambrose began her career at an investment banking firm. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Ambrose made a drastic career pivot, how she managed to get her foot in the door in the music and fashion industries to ultimately define culture through fashion, and everything she learned along the way.

World-class tennis champion Maria Sharapova is an absolute powerhouse. At a young age, Sharapova achieved the unthinkable: At age 17, she won Wimbledon, which was just the start of her tennis career. She went on to win five career Grand Slam titles, became the seventh female player in the Open era to complete the career Grand Slam, and was the first-ever female athlete to serve as the Russian delegation’s Olympic flag bearer. In February of this year, Sharapova announced her retirement, but her success doesn’t end on the tennis courts. Sharapova founded Sugarpova, a premium candy brand and strategically advises and invests in like-minded brands like Bala Bangles, Therabody, and Supergoop!. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Sharapova is evolving her career and using her past experiences to catapult into new business ventures.

Cameron Diaz is the quintessential Hollywood actress. She’s starred in iconic films, including The Mask, There’s Something About Mary, and Charlie’s Angels, and has been nominated for countless SAG awards, BAFTAs, and Golden Globes. In 2014, Diaz became a best-selling author with her two wellness-centric books, The Body Book and The Longevity Book, which reveal Diaz’s outlook on body positivity and living to your fullest potential. Now, Diaz has launched clean-wine company Avaline alongside Who What Wears Co-founder Katherine Power, defining a new standard for clean ingredients and transparency. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Diaz is continually evolving herself beyond Hollywood and how to build a brand you truly believe in

It's been three years since we sat down with Jen Atkin, the celebrity hairstylist and founder of award-winning brand Ouai, and a lot has changed. A savvy businesswoman, Atkin has successfully expanded Ouai into a holistic lifestyle brand by introducing new categories like fragrance, hand care, and solution-based haircare remedies. Tomorrow, December 8, Atkin is making her debut as an author with her memoir and spirited guide Blowing My Way to the Top: How to Break the Rules, Find Your Purpose, and Create the Life and Career You Deserve. On this episode of Second Life, find out what exactly Atkin covers in her book and how she continuously modernizes her brand.

Noura Sakkijha, the CEO and co-founder of Mejuri, founded the beloved fine jewelry brand with one mission: to empower consumers to buy jewelry for themselves rather than waiting for a special occasion or a gift from a significant other. And with over 800k followers on Instagram and a game-changing weekly drop model, the brand is, simply put, crushing it. It only makes sense that Sakkijha comes from a family of jewelers. Still though, her career path was anything but linear. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Sakkijha went from industrial engineering to founding and leading Instagram’s favorite fine jewelry brand. 

As the founder of Brother Vellies, a sustainable luxury accessories brand supporting local artisan economies all over the world, Aurora James has been pushing the fashion industry forward and reframing our definition of a luxury good for some time now. On this episode of Second Life, we’re welcoming Aurora back to discuss new projects that have solidified her status as a visionary changemaker and industry leader—including the 15 Percent Pledge, a nonprofit advocacy organization urging major retailers to commit 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses.

Sarah Paiji Yoo’s mission is simple: we shouldn’t have to sacrifice a clean home for a clean planet. As the CEO & Co-Founder of Blueland, a brand eliminating single-use plastic by creating innovative household products in reusable packaging, Yoo has become a leader zero-waste lifestyle movement. On this episode of Second Life, hear how Yoo has not only founded this brand but has also successfully started and sold numerous others—ultimately learning the importance of personal and professional evolution.

After over a decade, Elizabeth Holmes left the Wall Street Journal, where she held the esteemed position of senior style reporter and columnist to explore a career in freelance journalism contributing to notable publications including The New York Times, Town & Country, and more. Holmes also became a voice on social media through her sartorial commentary series on Instagram called "So Many Thoughts," in which she chronicles the royal family’s style. Now, on November 17, Holmes is turning the series into her first-ever book, HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style. On this episode of Second Life, hear how Holmes taps into her extensive experience as a journalist covering everything from political campaigns to the retail industry to bring us a book on the fashion and branding of the four most influential members of the British royal family.

After moving to the US at a young age, Camila Alves McConaughey embarked on an evolving, dynamic career path—from fashion and modeling to becoming a lifestyle expert and entrepreneur. Today, McConaughey is the co-owner of organic baby food brand Yummy Spoonfuls, and founder of the lifestyle and community website Women of Today with the purpose of building a space that encourages connection around family, food, fashion, wellness, home and more. On this episode of Second Life, hear how McConaughey learned from each experience to continually grow her career and the importance of never giving up on your dreams.

After 27 years, Jenna Lyons, renowned style icon and president and executive creative director of J.Crew Group, stepped down. There, Lyons fearlessly worked her way up the corporate ladder, ultimately creating an authentic brand identity through photography, styling, new designs, and innovative collaborations. But eventually, it was time for Lyons to create a new brand identity for herself. Now, Lyons has just made her debut in the beauty industry, launching LoveSeen, an inclusive eyelash line embracing all beauty aspirations. Plus, after two years of development, her new show, Stylish with Jenna Lyons, is set to release on HBO Max December 3. On this episode of Second Life, hear how—and why—she pivoted away from the world she knew so well to further manifest her creativity.

It all started when Veronica Garza, the founder and chief ideation officer of the Mexican American food brand Siete Foods, began experimenting with alternative food options to fit a grain-free, low-inflammation diet. As someone who suffered from multiple autoimmune diseases such as ITP and lupus, restricting her diet was a way for Veronica to combat her often debilitating symptoms. But it wasn’t fun. Missing staples in her diet, like tortillas, Veronica decided to create a solution: a grain-free, almond-flour tortilla that would eventually launch Siete Foods. Backed by her family of seven, the brand has grown to include 30 better-for-you heritage-inspired products and is now the number one tortilla and chip brand at Whole Foods Markets around the country. Pretty impressive. Also impressive: This was Veronica’s first foray into food after getting an MBA in digital media management and teaching a freshman seminar course at a college in Texas. On this week’s episode of Second Life, hear how, after years of struggling with her health and struggling to find the right career path, Veronica’s brand became a solution to both.

The term “supermodel” doesn’t ring more true than when describing Karlie Kloss. After she walked exclusively for Calvin Klein in her first NYFW show, the industry immediately started buzzing, and by the following year, she’d walked in 64 shows. Now, 13 years, 43 Vogue covers, and countless ad and editorial campaigns later, Kloss is becoming equally known for her work in quite a different world: tech. Following the powerful experience of learning to code herself, Kloss founded Kode With Klossy, a nonprofit organization focused on creating learning experiences and opportunities for young women in STEAM. Tune in to hear how Kloss went from global supermodel to tech entrepreneur and how she is inspiring the next generation of women to take part in creating the technology that’s shaping our world.

Sophia Amoruso is a serial entrepreneur and a New York Times bestselling author. She founded the vintage eBay store turned online retailer and phenomenon, Nasty Gal, back in 2006, and then scaled the business to over $100 million in revenue. She’s also authored three books, the first of which, #Girlboss, she turned into a second business as a community for ambitious women. But after three years of highly attended Girlboss rallies and the hit podcast, Girlboss Radio, in June 2020, Sophia stepped away from the brand to forge a new path yet again. Backed by 15 years of experience through the highs and lows of building and scaling businesses, she’s just launched an in-depth online entrepreneurship course aptly named Business Class. “Here I am at my big second pivot,” says Amoruso. “I want to share everything that I have learned and harvest that for another generation of founders.” Tune in for the story behind building each of her iconic brands and what she wishes she had known before starting them all.

Sign up for Sophia's Business Class now through Oct 9th at: https://takebusinessclass.com

Renee Dua, MD, is a nephrologist and internist. She helmed her own private practice in Los Angeles and served as chief of medicine at Valley Presbyterian and Simi Valley Hospitals. But after years in the healthcare industry, and one particularly frustrating visit to the ER on the patient’s side of things, Dua had a lightbulb moment. In creating a new kind of healthcare system based around house calls and telehealth, she could cut down on patient wait times and create accessibility for those for whom getting to a doctor’s office or hospital is less than convenient. Now, as the CMO (chief medical officer) of Heal, Dua is doing just that. On this episode of Second Life, hear how she made the switch from working in the traditional healthcare system to creating her own system.

Annie Lawless is the founder and CEO behind the high-performance, highly pigmented, and clean makeup line, Lawless Beauty. The line has seen explosive growth since its 2017 launch, including being picked up by retail giant Sephora, in addition to its direct-to-consumer business. But before Lawless was creating high-impact natural makeup, she was obsessing over clean ingredients in another industry altogether: food and beverage. Lawless was a co-founder of one of the largest cold-pressed juice companies in the US, Suja, which, at the time of her exit, was valued at $300 million after investments from Coca-Cola and Goldman Sachs. On this week’s episode, Lawless discusses what it’s like for a company to grow larger than she could have ever predicted and how to know when it’s time to walk away from something to find a more fulfilling path. Plus, she shares a killer breakdown of the factors to weigh when you’re seeking investment.

Reddit’s chief operating officer, Jen Wong, is a digital media expert through and through. In her current role, she calls on a plethora of previous work experience at AOL, Popsugar, and Time Inc. and is helping lead the 600-person company on the road to serious growth. But before she was overseeing business strategy at the fifth most visited website in the US, and before her foray into media entirely, she actually started out in finance. In this episode of Second Life, hear how she used business school as a career reset and put herself on an entirely new path—one that’s taken her to the top of her field.

Ayesha Curry is an accomplished culinary entrepreneur. Her foray into food began with a blog and a Youtube channel, which have grown into a community of over 9 million followers and subscribers. Since building her platform, she’s become a cooking-show host, a restaurateur with three International Smoke locations, an active philanthropist feeding thousands of families suffering from food insecurity in the Bay Area, and a best-selling cookbook author. Her newest book, The Full Plate: Flavor-Filled, Easy Recipes for Families With No Time and a Lot to Do, is out September 22. Curry has woven food into every aspect of her constantly evolving career without a culinary degree or any formal training in the industry. Instead, she began as an actress when she was just a teenager. Hear how she pivoted from working in Hollywood to creating a culinary empire on this week’s episode of Second Life.

Lesley Thornton is the founder and CEO behind the botanically based collection of high-performance skincare and multipurpose self-care products, Klur. One look at the assortment and it’s clear that Lesley has intentionally crafted every element of the line—from science-driven formulations to customer education to a sustainable business model. But her path to a crystal-clear brand vision wasn’t a linear one. Hear how Lesley went from working as a freelance makeup artist to an on-air beauty expert for the TLC network to opening her own esthetics private practice before embarking on a line of her own on this week’s episode of Second Life.

Sarah Sherman Samuel is a multidisciplinary designer working with interiors, textiles, products, and decorative arts, which she curates together to create truly remarkable spaces. She’s designed everything from rugs and wallpaper to hardware and tiles to the gorgeous homes of celebrities and tastemakers like Mandy Moore and Garance Dóre. One look at her stunning Instagram feed and the unique, blended aesthetics will give you more design inspiration than you’ll know what to do with. But before Sherman Samuel found herself on the interiors path, she bounced between many different creative projects—from graphic design to wedding and event design to photography and art direction. Hear how she’s used each one of those experiences to create interiors we can’t help but fawn over on this episode of Second Life.

Tia Mowry-Hardrict first graced our screens back in the early ’90s as one half of the iconic twin duo in the hit sitcom Sister Sister. Since then, she’s gone on to star in countless other projects—everything from Twitches to The Game to her beloved Youtube Channel, Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix—and over the years, she’s also added producer and best-selling author to her resumé. But after years of success in the entertainment industry, she’s used her hard-earned skills (among them, a healthy dose of persistence and fortitude) to found a company that’s inspiring women of all backgrounds to take charge of their wellness with her line of supplements called Anser. Hear how Tia has achieved longevity as an actress and forged her way into a new industry altogether on this episode of Second Life.

Suzy Batiz is a truly self-made female entrepreneur, and a successful one at that. Between her two businesses, the before-you-go toilet spray Poo~Pourri, and her line of natural cleaning concentrates, Supernatural, her empire is valued at over $500 million. But getting there was a long road filled with over 27 career changes, an abusive marriage, and two bankruptcies. Hear how Suzy persevered and overcame it all, on this episode of Second Life.

Nyakio Grieco is the founder and creator of Nyakio Beauty, an award-winning line of skincare products initially inspired by her own Kenyan heritage and family’s beauty recipes. Since its launch in 2002, Nyakio has expanded to include cultural traditions from 13 countries around the world that have been historically underrepresented in mainstream beauty and skincare. Today, the products are beloved and highly accessible via Target.com, but Grieco’s entrepreneurial journey wasn’t easy. After much perseverance and many brand resets, her purpose became clear: “I’m here to help other women, young women who look like me, know that they can do this.” Hear how Grieco went from working in talent representation at some of the biggest agencies in Hollywood to navigating and pushing for meaningful change within the beauty world on this episode of Second Life.

Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan have been writing together since they founded their witty celebrity fashion blog, Go Fug Yourself, back in 2004 as a way to procrastinate from their day jobs. Today, not only are the “Fug Girls” pioneers in the space, but they’ve also received rave reviews as novelists with the best-selling The Royal We—loosely based on the courtship of Prince WIlliam and Kate Middleton—and the highly anticipated sequel, The Heir Affair, which just hit bookshelves on July 7. But before they were writing novels, the ladies were working as TV series recappers, writing about shows such as Judging Amy and Making the Band, before parlaying that experience into working in the world of reality TV. Hear how the pair pivoted from digital to print and ultimately found their stride in balancing the two on today’s episode of Second Life.

Aminatou Sow is the co-host of Call Your Girlfriend, the “podcast for long-distance besties everywhere,” alongside her Big Friend and collaborator, Ann Friedman. On July 14th, the pair released their first book together, Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close, which has already amassed praise by everyone from Hillary Clinton to Roxane Gay to Vogue. But before Aminatou was a literary thought leader and media legend, she had a previous life in tech where she worked for Google and co-founded the Tech LadyMafia, a network for women who work “in and around tech.” And before that? She worked at a social media agency as an analyst and at a think tank in DC. Hear how all her experience has converged into one impressive and admirable career path on this episode of Second Life. 

To order Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close, head to www.bigfriendship.com

Karen Young, Founder and CEO of Oui the People, is building an entirely new shaving experience for women and non-binary people. By creating a stainless-steel safety razor designed specifically for sensitive skin, luxurious personal-care products, and a brand that speaks to women intelligently and relatably, it’s no surprise that her products keep selling out time and again and have over 400 5-star reviews on the brand’s site. But there have been many twists and turns along the way. On this episode of Second Life, hear how Karen went from working as an account executive for brands like Dolce & Gabbana to founding her own home interiors line to managing packaging operations at Estee Lauder, before she turned the shaving industry on its head.

Lauren Chan started her career as a plus-size model alongside women like Ashley Graham and Candice Huffine at Ford Models. With a foot in the fashion industry’s door, she parlayed her career into writing and freelanced for publications such as Vogue and Interview before becoming a fashion features editor at Glamour, where she had her own column on size inclusivity. In her latest pivot, she’s taken body inclusivity activism to the next level by founding Henning, a high-end workwear brand for sizes 12 and up. Hear how Chan’s career in fashion led her to solve a problem she was experiencing firsthand in the latest episode of Second Life.

Brett Heyman is the founder of Edie Parker, the vintage-inspired acrylic handbag and accessories brand seen on virtually every red carpet ever. But just last year, Brett pivoted the brand in an unexpected way: into a cannabis accessories and private label flower company named Flower by Edie Parker. Find out how working in PR for brands like Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana led her to create an iconic brand of her own.

From signing on as Victoria’s Secret’s first Australian Angel to walking the Balenciaga runway while five months pregnant, Miranda Kerr cemented her status as an international supermodel years ago. On this episode of Second Life, hear how she used her experience in a surprising way: to found certified-organic skincare and beauty brand Kora Organics.

Alison Cayne is the founder of Haven’s Kitchen, a brand on a mission to make home cooking more enjoyable via a NY-based cooking school, café, event space, and line of all-natural refrigerated sauces available across the U.S. at grocers like Whole Foods. But before she set out to change the way people feel about cooking, she was busy raising five children. In this week’s episode, hear Cayne’s personal journey to finding professional alignment.

Shelley Gibbs Sanders worked in the jewelry industry for over 15 years designing for brands like House of Harlow 1960, A.L.C., and Rachel Zoe before she set out to create The Last Line, a direct-to-consumer brand that turned the traditional fine-jewelry model on its head. Find out how she finally took the leap to found her own game-changing brand on this week’s episode of Second Life.

Prolific makeup artist Gucci Westman has one of the most influential careers in the beauty world. She’s responsible for the makeup on countless magazine covers (Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar) and in ad campaign and runway looks for the likes of Dior, Proenza Schouler, and Oscar de la Renta, and has a celebrity client list that spans the past two decades. Now, she’s the founder and creative director of Westman Atelier, a line of clean, high-performance, and luxurious beauty products. Hear how she made the leap, plus incredible behind-the-scenes stories from her famed career, on this episode of Second Life.

Joy Cho is the founder of Oh Joy!, a design studio, lifestyle brand, and creative hub where she brings her signature aesthetic to the masses. Oh Joy! has licensed product lines in home décor, kids apparel, pet products, and so much more at retailers including Target, Anthropologie, Calpak, and Petco. As if that weren’t enough, Joy has also authored three books for adults, and most recently, a three-part book series for children. On this episode of Second Life, hear how Joy leveraged her education in graphic design and killer marketing skills to accomplish it all. 

Multicultural beauty brand Carol’s Daughter has retained a cult-like following since the ’90s, with brand evangelists including Halle Berry, Jada Pinkett Smith, and yes, Oprah. But when founder Lisa Price started dabbling in aromatherapy oils out of her Brooklyn apartment, her days looked quite different. She worked as a production coordinator on television programs like The Cosby Show, and it wasn’t until Price’s mother, Carol, pushed her to sell her products at a local flea market that her hobby became something much more. Tune in to hear what Price finds particularly valuable about her early career in television production and how she built her company from the ground up.

Catherine McCord, founder of healthy-eating destination Weelicious.com, author of three cookbooks, and co-founder of the family-friendly food-delivery service One Potato, has built a healthy-living empire. Not exactly the career path you might expect from a former Calvin Klein and Victoria's Secret runway model. Find out how McCord made the pivot and the best skills she’s using from her modeling days on this episode of Second Life. 

Sali Christeson, the founder and CEO of the brand revolutionizing women's workwear, Argent, is creating professional, practical and vibrant pieces to equip women with the confidence they need to shatter the glass ceiling. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Christeson used her past career as a finance and tech exec as a tool to pivot into creating a brand that provides a solution for women around the world.

Designer, artist, best-selling author and founder of bohemian-inspired design blog and online shop Jungalow, Justina Blakeney, is known for her unique style which is full of color, patterns and plants. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Blakeney manifested a career in the belief of the importance of creative self expression. 

After numerous years working in the beauty industry at multinational beauty businesses, including L'Oreal and Benefit Cosmetics, Sharon Chuter started her own beauty brand, UOMA Beauty, dedicated to re-writing the rules of inclusivity, representation, and diversity within the industry. On this live episode of Second Life, find out how Chuter's past career experiences and forward-thinking has pushed the beauty industry forward. 

Influencer, entrepreneur, author, and designer, Danielle Bernstein, has established herself as an influential voice in the fashion/blogger community by transitioning her street style blog into a burgeoning business. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Bernstein has grown her brand beyond fashion, all on her own terms. 

Cook, writer, and author Alison Roman is renowned for her best-selling cookbooks, column in The New York Times, and internet-famous recipes like #TheStew, #TheCookies, #TheDip. Prior to becoming the internet’s favorite culinary celebrity, however, she worked in pastry in L.A., SF, and NYC (where she helped Christina Tosi open the Milk Bar empire). On this episode of Second Life, find out how Roman transitioned into a career of recipe writing and culinary acclaim.

As one of the most iconic supermodels of this generation, KarolÍna Kurková has made a name for herself in the fashion industry. However, what most people don't know is Kurková's other passion lies within holistic health and wellness. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Kurková found inspiration in her passion to create an extremely successful wellness brand. 

Entrepreneur, social media influencer, body positivity advocate and animal activist, Katie Sturino has created a career dedicated to empowering women to find confidence and feel comfortable in their own skin. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Sturino found her voice in the industry and realized it was a time to make a change.

While Kristen Bell is renowned for her lead acting roles in critically-acclaimed series including Veronica Mars and The Good Place and box office hits like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and the Frozen franchise, she has a passion beyond the film screen. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Kristen Bell has established not one, but two companies devoted to giving back. 

Nicole Gibbons, founder of first-ever direct-to-consumer paint brand, Clare, is completely disrupting the paint industry. On this episode of Second Life, find out how this former Global PR Director turned interior designer has built a company that has fulfilled its mission to uncomplicate the paint shopping experience. 

Kat Von D is a true creative icon. From tattoo artist and beauty mogul to designer and activist, Von D has utilized her artistry to start multiple, wildly successful empires. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Von D has managed to build authentic creative businesses, while staying true to her vision and voice. 

Inspired to create pajamas that are both comfortable enough for a night in, but also chic enough to wear out, co-founder, Asya Varetsa, has built a successful nightwear brand with no fashion design experience whatsoever. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Varetsa applied her past experience of being a fashion market editor at ELLE to design fashion's favorite pajamas, Sleeper. 

Hillary Peterson, the founder and CEO of trustworthy skincare line True Botanicals, has set out to transform skincare by formulating clean, organic products without harmful toxins. On this episode of Second Life, find out how why Peterson was forced to take a look into her own beauty regimen and decided to ultimately change the course of skincare by solving a problem. 

Reese Witherspoon is without a doubt an iconic female of our generation. From actress and producer to entrepreneur and activist, Witherspoon has paved her way through Hollywood. On this episode of Second Life, find how out Witherspoon has transitioned her wildly successful acting career into a platform dedicated to rewriting the narrative for women. 

Tina Craig, globally known as Bag Snob, is a creative force in the industry paving her own career path, while remaining fearless every step of the way. On this episode of Second Life, find out how exactly Bag Snob emerged nearly 15 years ago and how today Craig has evolved her brand into multiple successful companies. 

Holly Thaggard, the founder of beloved skincare brand Supergoop!, has built a company with the mission to reduce the epidemic of skin cancer by shattering sunscreen stereotypes. Previously beginning her career as an elementary teacher, find out how Haggard thought of the idea to start a SPF brand on this episode of Second Life.

Ariane Goldman, CEO and Founder of both Twobirds New York and HATCH, is disrupting the industry by providing solutions for the voids in women's wardrobe. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Ariane transitioned from her eight-year career at American Express into marrying her creativity and strong business foundation to build two successful companies. 

Style icon and entrepreneurial trendsetter, Nicole Richie has built a burgeoning business empire over the past decade. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Nicole transitioned from her career in entertainment, originally starring on A Simple Life, into creating a multi-faceted fashion brand—all on her own terms.

Entrepreneur, journalist, author, photographer, and activist, Amanda de Cadenet, is known as one of the most influential creatives in the industry. From TV host to noteable photographer to CEO, find out how Amanda de Cadenet evolved through various careers ultimately leading her to create the platform, Girlgaze, on this episode of Second Life.

Iconic supermodel, Cindy Crawford, is widely known for being one of the original models who pivoted from being not just a model, but also a true star and style icon. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Cindy combined her years of modeling experience with her business savvy to expand her career beyond modeling throughout the decades.

Sallie Krawcheck, the CEO and founder of digital-first, mission-driven investment platform for women, Ellevest, is redefining what it means to be a successful woman on Wall Street (hint: it's not easy). On this episode of Second Life, find out how Sallie implemented her years of experience on Wall Street into a career dedicated to empowering women financially.

Jessica Koslow, the chef and owner of renowned Los Angeles cafe, Sqirl, went from being the digital producer at Fox to one of the most innovative chefs in the culinary scene. On this episode of Second Life, find out how Jessica transitioned her hobby into a fulfilling career. 

Rachel Zoe is an absolute powerhouse. Her online style destination, The Zoe Report, reaches over 14 million monthly users worldwide. Her ready-to-wear and accessory line, Rachel Zoe Collection, is carried at retailers such as Net-a-Porter, Shopbop, and Revolve. Zoe is also the founder and chief curator of the luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle subscription service Box of Style, and she's authored two books. Find out how her first life as a stylist has informed it all. 

Rea Ann Silva went from being a professional makeup artist to becoming the founder and CEO of Beautyblender. On this episode of Second Life, find out how she changed the way millions of people apply their makeup.

Before Cindy Capobianco founded Lord Jones, the CBD brand that has taken the cannabis industry by storm, she worked as a fashion editor and in PR and marketing. Find out how she made the major pivot in this episode of Second Life.

The Shade Room has over 16 million followers and counting, but before Angelica Nwandu founded it, she was on her way to becoming an accountant. Listen to the story of how she made the switch.

It's hard to sum up Kelly Oxford's career without resorting to a list. She's a New York Times best-selling author, screenwriter, sexual assault activist, social media sensation, and mom of three. Oxford wasn't always career-focused, though. In episode five of our podcast, Second Life, she explains what it was like to go from stay-at-home mom to social media star and breadwinner in a matter of tweets.

Originally broadcast on March 19, 2018. 

Emily Henderson is proof that when you're passionate about something, you can turn it into a thriving career—no matter what you studied in college or where you started out. “I learned on the job and I think it’s a very good way to start and build your career," she tells Hillary Kerr. Find out how Henderson went from being a prop stylist to running a design blog and getting her own show on HGTV without any traditional design or business education.

Originally broadcast on August 27, 2018.

There are two ways to tell Mandy Moore’s career story. While we’re familiar with the highlight reel—Moore was a breakout singer at just 15 and is a Golden Globe nominee—the real story is far more complex. In this episode of Second Life, Moore opens up about self-doubt and setbacks and how they helped shape the woman and actor she is today.

Originally broadcast on May 21, 2018.

Tyler Haney knows activewear. She was raised in Boulder, Colorado—a town known for its outdoor activities—and grew up running track and field. With a few courses in business and design under her belt paired with the desire to create a sporty uniform for recreational activity, Haney eventually became the CEO and founder of her own brand, Outdoor Voices. However, her journey was filled with challenges and missteps that she looks back on as lessons learned.

Originally broadcast on November 26th, 2018.

Before Christina Tosi started Milk Bar—the trendy bakery known for its covetable, playful desserts—she was studying math and Italian in college with dreams of becoming a mathematician, a UN translator, or a perhaps a truck driver (yes, really). "I like to be uncomfortable," the entrepreneur tells Hillary Kerr on this episode of Second Life. Drawn to restaurant life with a passion for baking, Tosi moved on from her mathematical endeavors to pursue cooking at culinary school and (with a lot of hard work) went on to found her very own wildly successful bakery. Here's how she made it happen.

Originally broadcast on November 19, 2018.

Eva Chen's résumé reads like the front row of a well-stocked magazine stand. She's held jobs at publications like Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Teen Vogue, and Lucky (where she was editor in chief, no less). Although landing a job as editor in chief of a major publication sounds like the peak of one's career, Chen was just getting started. Now, she's catapulted to director of fashion partnerships for Instagram, has written her first book (a children's story called Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes), and is trying her hand at design with the launch of a capsule collection with Janie and Jack in conjunction with her book.

Originally broadcast on November 5, 2018.

Lauren Conrad ended up on one of the world's first major reality TV shows at the tender age of 17. Since then, she's grown into the cunning, experienced entrepreneur you know today. According to her, she wouldn't be where she is now—a New York Times best-selling author eight times over, designer of her own fashion line LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's, and philanthropist behind the non-profit The Little Market—without the mistakes she made along the way. 

Originally broadcast on June 25, 2018.

Emma Grede is the CEO and co-founder of Good American, the hugely successful, size-inclusive fashion brand that she started with none other than Khloé Kardashian. But starting this business wasn't the first time Grede struck out on her own. She'd long been making a name for herself in the fashion and entertainment industries on the business side of things and had already checked starting a company off her list. "I am a person who can sell anything, and I think I just had that naturally," she tells Hillary Kerr on today's episode of Second Life. 

Originally broadcast on September 24, 2018.

If anyone has mastered the art of the hustle, it's Ellen Bennett. The entrepreneurial powerhouse behind Hedley & Bennett, a Los Angeles–based chef wear and handcrafted apron company, started her own business at age 24 while working as a line cook at not one but two prestigious restaurants in L.A. "I was permanently running on adrenaline, and I loved it," she tells Hillary Kerr. Now, she's outfitting top chefs around the world, including the likes of Martha Stewart, Jamie Oliver, Jon Shook, and Vinny Dotolo.

Originally broadcast on September 10, 2018.

There was a time when Aurora James never thought she'd have a seat at the proverbial table. Now, after dipping her toes in multiple industries, she's at the helm of the sustainable fashion company Brother Vellies and is proof that if you have a goal, you can make it happen, even if that means finding a new way of getting there. "I always knew that I wanted to work in fashion. I just knew that fashion wasn't working for me in a way that I needed it to," she tells us. 

Originally broadcast on August 8, 2018. 

In an updated and extended interview from our very first episode, Hillary sits down with Jen Atkin, celebrity stylist and founder of cult haircare line Ouai. Dubbed the "most influential hairstylist in the world" by The New York Times, Atkin counts Bella Hadid, Chrissy Teigen, and Kendall Jenner as clients. Here, she gets candid about the power of social media, reflects on her journey from salon apprentice to CEO of a thriving business, and explains why mental toughness is the most underrated quality.

This extended episode has an additional 20 minutes of previously unreleased audio from when it first aired on February 19, 2018.

Anine Bing launched her successful clothing and accessories line in 2012, but her days once revolved around modeling, music, and blogging. Listen to the story of her career pivots on this week's episode. 

Jennifer Meyer’s career has taken a non-linear path that went from psychology to fashion editorial to PR before she founded her now wildly popular jewelry brand. Listen to her story on Second Life.

Lauren Kleban started out as a professional dancer and now runs L.A.’s popular LEKFit workout studio. Hear about her career journey and what’s next for her company on Second Life.

When Anastasia Soare immigrated to Los Angeles from her native Romania in the early ’90s, she had no idea she’d someday change the way we collectively groom our brows. But after attending aesthetician school and getting a job at a salon on Melrose Place, she noticed that her facial clients weren’t taking proper care of their brows. Sensing a white space, she eventually launched her own salon where she dedicated herself to shaping brows of A-list clients. On this episode of Life Lessons, she’s talking us through how she ended up launching a full-on empire complete with a best-selling product line you’ve definitely heard of: Anastasia Beverly Hills.

Paige Adams-Geller was a fit model and actress before founding lifestyle and denim brand Paige in 2004. The brand now has a global presence and a slew of celebrity fans.

Laura Vassar has spent most of her life crafting beautiful ready-to-wear, a passion that began in high school when she learned to sew and designed her own prom dress. She met her future husband (and business partner) Kristopher Brock while studying at Parsons in New York City, and the rest is history: Their brand Brock Collection is now stocked at fine department stores and on big-time sites like Net-a-Porter and Moda Operandi. On this week’s episode of Life Lessons, she’s offering up advice for aspiring designers and explaining what it’s really like to work in fashion.

Nancy Twine went from working at Goldman Sachs to becoming the founder and CEO of clean, buzzy haircare brand Briogeo. Find out how she did it on Second Life.

When Molly McNearney arrived in Los Angeles and landed an interview to work as an assistant producer at Jimmy Kimmel Live, she jumped at the chance (although she admits she had no idea who Kimmel was at the time). The job wasn’t glamorous, but the initiative she showed in those early days led to other opportunities on the show. She worked her way up the ranks and into the writers’ room, eventually earning her current status as head writer. On this week’s Life Lessons episode, McNearney offers up advice for aspiring writers.

Whitney Tingle went from working on Wall Street to co-founding Sakara Life, the go-to meal-delivery service of celebrities like Chrissy Teigen. Hear about her journey from finance to wellness on Second Life.

Mercedes Abramo, president and CEO of Cartier North America, has never been one to avoid taking risks or making moves. In fact, her career as a businesswoman has taken her all over the world, from the Ritz Carlton in Maui to business school in Paris to a stint at Tiffany & Co. in New York City before landing her at Cartier, where she worked her way all the way up the ladder. Tune in to this week’s Life Lessons episode as she chats with Hillary and offers up insights on expanding your skill set, learning how to be a manager, and learning how to decide when it’s time to move on to a new opportunity.

Ariel Kaye started her career in PR and digital advertising. Now she’s the founder and CEO of Parachute , the wildly popular direct-to-consumer bedding and bath company. Hear the incredible story of her career on Second Life.

Gregg Renfrew has been an entrepreneur practically all her life… She started her own business cleaning summer homes when she was in college at the University of Vermont, she founded The Wedding List soon after she graduated (and later sold it to Martha Stewart!), and eventually she founded her current business, Beautycounter, which will be familiar to most of our listeners as a company that transformed the way we think about the ingredients we slather onto our skin. Tune in to Life Lessons for her wise words on collaboration, knowing when to cut your losses, and explain what compelled her interest in natural, nontoxic products.

In addition to her prolific acting career, Michelle Pfeiffer recently created a clean fragrance line called Henry Rose. Listen to her story and learn about her new venture on Second Life.

When Tamara Mellon started working at Brown’s in London at age 18, she never could have imagined that the experience would someday lead to working at British Vogue, co-founding Jimmy Choo, becoming a designer in her own right, and eventually starting her own eponymous label. On this week’s episode of Life Lessons, Mellon swings by to deliver important advice for entrepreneurs, explain what it’s really like working in fashion, and give us some insights into the game-changing model she’s adopted at her own company.

Katherine Power moved to L.A. on her own at 16 to be a professional dancer. Now, she’s the co-founder and CEO of Who What Wear while also leading its namesake clothing line at Target and new skincare line, Versed. Listen to the story of her fascinating career on Second Life.

Jenni Konner always knew she wanted to work in entertainment, but she didn’t necessarily know that she’d find herself executive-producing one of the most talked-about TV shows of our time. On this week’s episode of Life Lessons, find out how Konner found her way to Girls (which she ran alongside Lena Dunham) after spending time in writing rooms on shows like Undeclared and Help Me Help You, and discover valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.

After working as a special assistant at the White House, then in brand marketing for companies like Tiffany & Co., Kathryn Duryea started Year & Day, which is shaking up the tableware space with its chic, minimal plates, flatware, and glasses.

Karla Welch is the in-demand stylist behind some of the biggest names in entertainment, from Justin Bieber to Tracee Ellis Ross to Elisabeth Moss. In the first episode of the Life Lessons series, listen to how she got her start in the industry, ramping her way up from scrappy shoots to working on Apple’s memorably iPod commercials and eventually taking on clients as a personal stylist. She’s had a serious effect on celebrity fashion, and she’s also changing the way we get dressed by way of her cool, in-demand collaborations with brands like Levi’s and Hanes.

Erica Chidi Cohen is the co-founder and CEO of Loom, the Los Angeles–based empowered education and wellness center that focuses on everything from periods to parenting. In the latest episode of Second Life, listen to how she parlayed a background in the culinary and fine art worlds into becoming a doula and eventually co-founding Loom, where she’s helping people truly understand their bodies in a feminist, inclusive, sex-positive, and fact-based way.

Reshma Saujani once had political aspirations, even becoming the first Indian American woman to run for Congress. Now, she's the CEO and founder of Girls Who Code, a nonprofit that aims to close the gender gap in technology. Learn about her inspiring career path on Second Life.

What happens when you leave an established finance career in NYC to open a nail salon in Los Angeles? Olive and June founder Sarah Gibson Tuttle has some answers. She had spent 10 years working as an equity sales trader at JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley when she noticed a white space in the beauty industry. Listen to Second Life to hear her story.

Korean skincare expert and Glow Recipe co-founder Sarah Lee spent years in the corporate beauty world at L'Oreal Paris before making the leap to start her own company, which has created cult products that have sold out numerous times on Sephora. Learn about her fascinating career journey on the newest episode of Second Life.

Swedish singer-songwriter Lykke Li has more on her plate than just her music career. In the newest episode of Second Life, she tells Hillary Kerr about co-founding an all-female mezcal brand called Yola Mezcal, which aims to economically empower women in Oaxaca.

Acting on not one but two hit shows may be satisfying enough for some, but Pretty Little Liars and You star Shay Mitchell is determined to pursue a variety of other interests. She's already written a YA novel and has developed a successful YouTube lifestyle channel, but now she's pivoting once again to travel entrepreneurship.

How does one go from a job in the district attorney's office to a career as a hotelier running some of the coolest hotels in the U.S. and Mexico? Austin-based hotelier Liz Lambert, who runs the impossibly Instagram-worthy Hotel San Cristóbal in Todos Santos, among other properties, sits down with Hillary Kerr to share her journey from Manhattan to Texas and beyond.

Where do you get your news? If Jessica Yellin's Instagram isn't at the top of your list, it will be soon. The former chief White House correspondent for CNN and founder of #NewsNotNoise tells Second Life how she took her Emmy-winning reporting skills to both social media and book publishing.

Sophia Roe's passion for food and wellness started as a distraction from her tough childhood. Growing up with parents who were substance abusers and eventually ending up in the foster care system, Roe found comfort and stability in both food and music. In the new episode of Second Life, Roe tells Hillary Kerr about overcoming unconventional beginnings, dropping out of college twice, and becoming a chef, wellness expert, and thought leader.

Armed with experience in finance and fashion buying, respectively, sisters-in-law Veronica Miele Beard and Veronica Swanson Beard started their fashion brand with a single jacket style and no business plan. A decade later, they have a successful label with seven brick-and-mortar stores. Here, they speak about working with a business partner, learning to trust your gut, and the question Anna Wintour asked them.

All of our guests have changed careers at some point, but Susan Tynan's path took several different turns on her way to raising $67 million in venture financing for Framebridge, a quick and affordable custom framing site. The founder and CEO, a Harvard Business School graduate, shares advice on how to accept "no" in your career, how to run a business ethically, and how to lift women up.

It started with a crush. Renowned chef, restaurant owner, and author Nancy Silverton first developed an interest in the food industry because she had a crush on a student cook at the dining hall of her college dorm and convinced him to hire her in the kitchen. Learn how she went from being a pastry chef to running her own empire and winning the food industry's highest honor.

L.A.-based retailer Revolve paved the way for influencer trips that now take over your Instagram feed, and Raissa Gerona is the brains behind the site's innovative strategy. Early in her career, she dealt with her parents' disapproval of her career path and a business failure, but you can bet she learned a thing or two on her way to becoming Revolve's chief brand officer.

Erin and Sara Foster are nothing if not honest. In the newest episode of Second Life, the sisters get real about feeling in over their heads, pursuing careers that paid the bills but weren't fulfilling, and regretting not going to college. Whether you know the Fosters from their parody-reality show on VH1, Barely Famous, or from their current positions as the heads of creative at Bumble, you'll learn a whole new side to the sisters.

Shiona Turini has the résumé that anyone with a dream of working in fashion envies. In episode 50 of Second Life, she shares what she learned cutting her teeth at the industry's major print magazines before fearlessly moving into freelance styling and finally transitioning into costume design for HBO's acclaimed tv series Insecure.

Everyone has interests outside of work, but not everyone knows how to turn their side hustle into a successful business. But it's safe to say that Sierra Tishgart, co-founder of cookware brand Great Jones, knows a thing or two about the transition. In the newest episode of Second Life, Tishgart tells Hillary Kerr how she went from being a Teen Vogue intern to becoming an entrepreneur in home cookware.

How do you go from being a hat maker to running a billion-dollar jewelry brand? In episode 48 of Second Life, Kendra Scott tells Hillary Kerr about the embarrassment of dropping out of college, learning retail "the hardest way possible," and how she transitioned from running a hat store to creating one of the most successful jewelry brands on the market.

Like many of us, Hannah Bronfman's most valuable college experience came from outside the classroom. Bronfman successfully pivoted from being a sculpture major to becoming fashion's favorite DJ and wellness master. In episode 47 of Second Life, Bronfman tells Hillary Kerr how she's learned to cope with the failure of a business venture, understand her worth, and inspire fans to lead a healthier, happier life.

Aimee Song's rise to fashion blogger stardom is a lesson in what you can accomplish by following your passions. The fashion guru behind Song of Style got her start working as a receptionist at a construction company right out of high school while saving up money to pay her own college tuition. It was there that she got her first taste for architecture and design and decided to go to school at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. However, one job interview changed everything. "I got the job because of my outfit," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 46 of Second Life.

Jamie Kantrowitz co-founded Countertop with Nicole Rice based on the goal of helping people focus on wellness through simple and delicious home cooking. Today, the duo sells a variety of products from seasonings to honey, all meant to enhance both the flavor and nutritiousness of your food. But before all this, Kantrowitz was following a very different career path. She spent her twenties working in politics and digital media at companies like Rock the Vote and Myspace. "Even though I've jumped industries, there are common threads that go through it," the entrepreneur tells Hillary Kerr on episode 45 of Second Life.

Everybody knows that before Jennifer Lopez was the multihyphenate superstar she is today, she was Jenny from the block. But most people don’t know how she made the leap from a dancer to an actor to a singer to an icon. “I always knew from a very young age that I loved performing,” Lopez tells Hillary Kerr on episode 44 of Second Life. With the help of Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas (then her agent, now a producer), who’s had a few career swaps of her own, J.Lo catapulted herself to international success. Lopez’s philosophy for mastering the pivot? “If you feel like you need to move, move.” Find out how both women paved their own paths.

Kerry O'Brien never could have anticipated that her career in public relations would lead her to become an underwear designer, but that's exactly what happened. The entrepreneur started out in corporate PR, quickly making her way up the ranks (she was a vice president at just 25 years old). However, when September 11 happened, she felt like she needed a change. She quit her job without a plan, but it wasn't long before she found her next passion: women's underwear.

Carla Hall was always a creative, but before competing on Top Chef, authoring cookbooks, and starring on The Chew, she was auditing at a big accounting firm and pursuing modeling in Europe. When she returned home from Europe—where she'd also taken up cooking—she stumbled into her own lunch delivery service that parlayed itself into catering, culinary school, and her rise to foodie fame. "It was really an adventure," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 42 of Second Life. 

Meredith Melling is proof that landing your dream job isn't the end of your career path. In fact, it might even just be the beginning. Melling always wanted to work in fashion, and with a bit of luck, good timing, and the smart decision to dress for the job she wanted, not the job she had, she landed the coveted title of a fashion assistant at Vogue early in her career. But that was only the start of her journey toward creating her own consulting business and co-founding fashion brand La Ligne.

Tyler Haney knows activewear. She was raised in Boulder, Colorado—a town known for its outdoor activities—and grew up running track and field. With a few courses in business and design under her belt paired with the desire to create a sporty uniform for recreational activity, Haney eventually became the CEO and founder of her own brand, Outdoor Voices. However, her journey was filled with challenges and missteps that she looks back on as lessons learned.

Before Christina Tosi started Milk Bar—the trendy bakery known for its covetable, playful desserts—she was studying math and Italian in college with dreams of becoming a mathematician, a UN translator, or a perhaps a truck driver (yes, really). "I like to be uncomfortable," the entrepreneur tells Hillary Kerr on episode 39 of Second Life. Drawn to restaurant life with a passion for baking, Tosi moved on from her mathematical endeavors to pursue cooking at culinary school and (with a lot of hard work) went on to found her very own wildly successful bakery. Here's how she made it happen.

Sign up for Christina Tosi's new Beyond Baking mailer at christinatosi.com.

If you've ever visited NYC's trendy new spa-salon-café hybrid, Chillhouse, you can already appreciate the way Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton is cashing in on the wellness industry one adaptogen latte and hangover-curing massage at a time. The "destination for modern self-care," as she describes it, is stylish, relaxing, and affordable—not to mention incredibly Instagram-friendly. But Fulton wasn't always involved in the wellness world, though. In fact, she dropped out of college to work in the nightlife world promoting clubs before ever landing her first desk job.

Eva Chen's résumé reads like the front row of a well-stocked magazine stand. She's held jobs at publications like Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Teen Vogue, and Lucky (where she was editor in chief, no less). Although landing a job as editor in chief of a major publication sounds like the peak of one's career, Chen was just getting started. Now, she's catapulted to director of fashion partnerships for Instagram, has written her first book (a children's story called Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes), and is trying her hand at design with the launch of a capsule collection with Janie and Jack in conjunction with her book.

Kerry Diamond has been starting businesses since she was in the third grade launching a school newspaper. "I am very fortunate in that I knew from a very early age what I wanted to do," she tells Hillary Kerr in episode 36 of Second Life. Although she started out in hard journalism, the entrepreneur pivoted to the beauty space and catapulted from beauty director at Harper's Bazaar to head of PR at Lancôme. All before striking out on her own to co-found Cherry Bombe, a biannual indie magazine that celebrates women in the food world.

Busy Philipps always knew she would be an actress. In fact, she was studying theater in college when she landed her first major role as Kim Kelly on the coming-of-age hit Freaks and Geeks. While she found success early on at the age of 19, her career hasn't been without setbacks, rejection, and grit. "I never have really fit into a lot of people's molds," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 35 of Second Life. But Philipps persevered in a male-dominated industry fraught with unrealistic expectations to come out the other side more sure of herself than ever.

Interior designer Amber Lewis, the force behind Amber Interiors, is proof that you don't necessarily need a college degree or a straightforward career path to find success. With just a few semesters in an interior design program at UCLA, Lewis found work as an assistant at an interior design firm, and eventually branched out on her own. At the same time, the creative was getting married to a musician, having her first child, and taking every opportunity that came her way. "I was a perfect storm of...luck, talent, and timing," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 34 of Second Life.

Amanda Hesser is responsible for the chic e-commerce and community site Food52, which she launched with co-founder Merrill Stubbs in 2009. Before she struck out on her own, the foodie had a thriving career as an editor for The New York Times and as a cookbook author, both unexpected paths seeing as the entrepreneur studied economics and finance in college. "I had no idea really what I wanted to do, but I knew the sort of lifestyle I wanted," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 33 of Second Life. Here's how she made the leap from cooking to writing to running her own company.

If you've given or received a gift in the last six years, you've probably heard of Sugarfina, the luxury candy brand made for grown-ups. The champagne gummy bears and other adult-friendly candies wouldn't exist had it not been for Rosie O'Niell and a particularly good date she went on to see Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with her now business partner and fiancé, Josh Resnick. Prior to starting her own whimsical venture, O'Niell was working in brand management at Mattel for Barbie. "When I did eventually step away and start Sugarfina, it's like I knew how to do it and I didn't even realize I knew how to do it," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 30 of Second Life.

Emma Grede is the CEO and co-founder of Good American, the hugely successful, size-inclusive fashion brand that she started with none other than Khloé Kardashian. But starting this business wasn't the first time Grede struck out on her own. She'd long been making a name for herself in the fashion and entertainment industries on the business side of things and had already checked starting a company off her list. "I am a person who can sell anything, and I think I just had that naturally," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 29 of Second Life. 

Kelly Sawyer Patricof and Norah Weinstein, co-presidents of the nonprofit Baby2Baby, met on a blind date. Well, a double blind date with their husbands, orchestrated by Patricof's father-in-law. Since then, Patricof and Weinstein married their passion for helping others with their unique backgrounds in fashion and law to head up operations at Baby2Baby—an organization that started with just three women collecting donations for local families in need that has since blossomed into a wildly successful nonprofit backed by some of the coolest moms in Hollywood. 

If anyone has mastered the art of the hustle, it's Ellen Bennett. The entrepreneurial powerhouse behind Hedley & Bennett, a Los Angeles–based chef wear and handcrafted apron company, started her own business at age 24 while working as a line cook at not one but two prestigious restaurants in L.A. "I was permanently running on adrenaline, and I loved it," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 29 of Second Life. Now, she's outfitting top chefs around the world, including the likes of Martha Stewart, Jamie Oliver, Jon Shook, and Vinny Dotolo.

Emily Henderson is proof that when you're passionate about something, you can turn it into a thriving career—no matter what you studied in college or where you started out. “I learned on the job and I think it’s a very good way to start and build your career," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 28 of Second Life. Find out how Henderson went from being a prop stylist to running a design blog and getting her own show on HGTV without any traditional design or business education.

When Jaclyn Johnson held the first Create & Cultivate conference in 2011 out of a desire to form a community of like-minded, creative women, she viewed it as a passion project, not a business. In fact, she still had a full-time gig running her own company at the time. "You have to have irons in the fire, and you've got to see what burns," she explains to Hillary Kerr on episode 27 of Second Life. That's how Johnson turned her side hustle into a thriving business that supports more women achieve their goals.

Shani Darden is a name that rolls off the tongue of celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jessica Alba, and Chrissy Teigen when they talk about their skincare. Now an expert esthetician with a client list that reads like a who's who of Hollywood, Darden wasn't always sure of her career path. In fact, she first moved to Los Angeles from her small town with dreams of becoming a model (and she has a Destiny's Child music video credit to prove it). "I just think it was one of those things where it took me so long to realize, like, oh, this is what I'm supposed to do," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 26 of Second Life.

There was a time when Aurora James never thought she'd have a seat at the proverbial table. Now, after dipping her toes in multiple industries, she's at the helm of the sustainable fashion company Brother Vellies and is proof that if you have a goal, you can make it happen, even if that means finding a new way of getting there. "I always knew that I wanted to work in fashion. I just knew that fashion wasn't working for me in a way that I needed it to," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 25 of Second Life.

When Linda Wells landed her first job as an editorial assistant in the beauty department of Vogue, she didn't have so much as a five-year-plan. She admits she could never have planned how her professional life—beauty editor turned editor in chief of a new magazine (a little publication called Allure) turned chief creative officer of Revlon and creator of the cosmetics line Flesh—would have turned out. On episode 24 of Second Life, Wells dishes about how she leaned into challenges and major changes to build the impressive career she has today.

Former broadcast journalist Whitney Casey and model-turned-actress Brooklyn Decker know something you don't. You spend years of your life—10 to be exact—picking out clothes to wear and to pack for all of life's many occasions. After identifying a massive white space in clothing and tech space, Casey and Decker figured out a way to give that precious time back to people with a seriously smart app called Finery. On episode 23 of Second Life, the two share how they turned one brilliant idea into a thriving company (without any formal business school or training).

People with curly and straight hair alike know the power of a good blowout. It was this simple idea that catapulted Alli Webb from former hairstylist and stay-at-home mom to the haircare maven behind Drybar, the blow-dry bar that specializes in blowouts. Before discovering this untapped market in L.A., Webb honed her craft at beauty school on the East Coast, pivoted to a career in PR, and eventually found her way back to hair, where it all began. "It was just a whim and a hunch," Webb tells Hillary Kerr on episode 22 of Second Life.

Andrea Lieberman knew that she was meant to work in fashion ever since she moved to Manhattan at age 13. "I realized at a very early age that I just found what I was meant to do," she tells Hillary Kerr in episode 21 of Second Life. Lieberman parlayed her passion for the fashion industry, an education from Parson's School of Design, and over 10 years experience as a celebrity stylist to eventually launch her own line A.L.C. 

Not everyone is lucky enough to stumble upon a career they're passionate about early in life. For April Gargiulo, the founder of skincare company Vinter's Daughter, it took three college degrees, stints in the design world, and time spent working for the family wine business for her to truly find her calling, and she's just getting started. Despite her untraditional path, she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 20 of Second Life, "There's nothing I would have done differently."

Lauren Conrad ended up on one of the world's first major reality TV shows at the tender age of 17. Since then, she's grown into the cunning, experienced entrepreneur you know today. According to her, she wouldn't be where she is now—a New York Times best-selling author eight times over, designer of her own fashion line LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's, and philanthropist behind the non-profit The Little Market—without the mistakes she made along the way. “I believe in mistakes," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 19 of Second Life. "I think that everything I know is because of a mistake I made.”

When you grow up in Ohio with dreams of moving to Los Angeles, becoming a TV host, and owning a Range Rover, people don't always take you seriously, according to Marianna Hewitt. However, with a bit of luck, perseverance, and the skills to turn her dreams into reality, Hewitt moved to L.A. and not only became a TV host but parlayed her experience into a career as a YouTube star, blogger, influencer, and now skincare brand co-founder. "My mentality is someone out there is doing the thing you want to do. Why can't it be you?" she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 18 of Second Life.

If you asked Jen Gotch in her 20s what her career might be like today, she'd have had absolutely no idea. "I'm a late bloomer," she tells Hillary Kerr on episode 17 of Second Life. The businesswoman and founder of the stylish gifts and accessories brand Ban.do spent college studying literature and philosophy with the goal of becoming a lawyer, only to realize that wasn't the path for her. Little did she know it would be a career in food styling that would ignite her creativity and lead to the beginning of her own brand then, later, a podcast about mental health.

From an early age, Cassandra Grey understood that you have to work for the things you need in life. It's part of what motivated her to not only work at a children's store in high school but eventually go on to manage said store and become a buyer. It's also part of what drove her to create her own, nontraditional PR business in both San Francisco and New York City and what, ultimately, led her to draft the business plan for what's now a multiplatform beauty empire by the name of Violet Grey. "I'm still on the day-to-day hustle," Grey tells Hillary Kerr in Episode 16 of Second Life, where she explains how her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for people guided her through multiple career paths.

The fast-paced world of advertising couldn't seem more opposite to vintage furniture shopping. However, after pressing pause on a career in marketing to raise her quickly growing family, Anna Brockway found herself using her advertising know-how to start her own website for selling vintage furniture. Brockway explains how she turned a little website called Chairish into the curated online marketplace for vintage home goods that it is today on episode 15 of Second Life.

There are two ways to tell Mandy Moore’s career story. While we’re familiar with the highlight reel—Moore was a breakout singer at just 15 and is a Golden Globe nominee—the real story is far more complex. In episode 14 of Second Life, Moore opens up about self-doubt and setbacks and how they helped shape the woman and actor she is today.

Sophia Rossi's résumé is filled with accomplishments, but there's one achievement you won't find on there: graduate. The fiercely successful CEO of women's lifestyle website HelloGiggles skipped college to dive straight into full-time work after high school. In episode 13 of Second Life, Rossi talks about working as a producer on The Hills, learning from startup mistakes, and what it takes to be a great manager.

Tracy Sun may be at the helm of the impressive fashion-tech startup Poshmark, but she doesn't consider herself a "fashion person." She studied biology and psychology in college with the intention of pursuing a career in neuroscience. Little did she know that she would trade medical school for business school and leave behind New York City for the tech mecca that is Silicon Valley. Sun explains how she made the transition from science to startup in episode 12 of Second Life.

Having a successful career might seem like the goal for many actors, but for Jessica Alba, it was a foundation to try something entirely new: building a business. The founder of The Honest Company shares the most powerful lessons she’s learned along the way, including letting go of ego, recruiting the right people, and the most important quality you can possess.

Few people would consider dropping out of college at age 19 to be a pivotal first step toward an impressive career, but that's exactly what Raina Penchansky did. Now co-founder and CEO of digital talent management company Digital Brand Architects (BDA), Penchansky left college during her sophomore year and began building a wildly impressive career in public relations. She explains how her natural instincts for hustling and winging it catapulted her PR career and gave her the courage to launch her own startup in episode 10 of Second Life.

Making the decision to change careers isn't always clear-cut, but holistic nutritionist Kelly LeVeque can pinpoint the moment she realized she was on the wrong path. In episode nine, LeVeque talks about her leap from pharmaceutical sales to nutrition as well as the advice to heed if you’re thinking of starting a business.

Architecture and ice cream may sound like an unlikely combination, but bringing these two concepts together created a recipe for success for Natasha Case, co-founder of the original hipster ice cream truck, Coolhaus. After landing what many would consider a dream job as a Disney Imagineer straight out of graduate school, Case couldn’t shake the idea that she could use architecture for something bigger. For her, that meant blending her love for architecture with food, she explains in episode eight of Second Life.

Emily Current and Meritt Elliot have achieved something that most friends only ever dream about. What started as a college friendship blossomed into a wildly successful business partnership built on mutual respect and admiration. After going their separate ways following graduation, Emily and Meritt took a leap of faith, parting from their lives as freelance stylists and writers to join forces and create what would become multiple successful fashion brands together.

From an outsider's point of view, Mandana Dayani was on a clear path to success: After graduating from USC Gould School of Law, she had an offer lined up at a top firm. But something wasn't right. In episode six of Second Life, the chief brand officer of Everything But the House and former vice president of Rachel Zoe Inc. explains why changing careers was the best decision she ever made.

It's hard to sum up Kelly Oxford's career without resorting to a list. She's a New York Times best-selling author, screenwriter, sexual assault activist, social media sensation, and mom of three. Oxford wasn't always career-focused, though. In episode five of our podcast, Second Life, she explains what it was like to go from stay-at-home mom to social media star and breadwinner in a matter of tweets.

In the publishing industry, few challenges are as daunting as reinventing a beloved classic, but that's exactly what Allure Editor in Chief Michelle Lee was asked to do. In episode four of Second Life, Lee explains how she rose to the challenge and chose to rethink the traditional standards of beauty and publishing.

Few people can be credited with starting a national food craze like Candace Nelson did. The pastry chef and entrepreneur sparked America's cupcake obsession when she opened Sprinkles Cupcakes in 2005, the first of its kind in the world. In the third episode of our podcast, Second Life, Nelson explains why she pivoted from a banker to baker and how she harnessed the power of saying “no."

Jenna Bans's résumé is scarily similar to the list of TV shows we love to binge. As a producer and writer on Grey's Anatomy, co–executive producer on Scandal, and creator of NBC's new crime drama, Good Girls, she's the creative force behind some of the most popular shows of this generation. In episode two of Second Life, Bans opens up about ditching law school to pursue screenwriting, working with Shonda Rhimes, and learning to lead fearlessly.

In our very first episode, host Hillary Kerr sits down with the one and only Jen Atkin, celebrity stylist and founder of cult haircare line Ouai. Dubbed the "most influential hairstylist in the world" by The New York Times, Atkin counts Bella Hadid, Chrissy Teigen, and Kendall Jenner as clients. Here, she gets candid about the power of social media, reflects on her journey from salon apprentice to CEO of a thriving business, and explains why mental toughness is the most underrated quality.