Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life

Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life

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Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life episodes

  • Serving With Purpose: The Heart Behind Belong Kitchen

    Paige and Lauren are joined by Kim Brown, founder of Belong Kitchen — a nonprofit grab-and-go kitchen in the Memorial area of Houston that employs adults with intellectual differences while creating meaningful community connection through food and service.

    Kim shares the incredible story of how Belong Kitchen began literally in her own backyard and grew into something the Houston community has fully wrapped its arms around. From the moment you walk through the doors, the joy, purpose, and heart behind the mission is undeniable.

    On this episode, we dive into:

    • How Belong Kitchen was created from a simple idea with a big purpose
    • Why creating opportunities for underserved communities matters so deeply
    • The power of a community rallying behind a mission
    • What makes Belong feel so different the second you walk in
    • Kim’s vision for expanding Belong into communities across the country
    • The beauty of serving others while building connection and belonging

    This episode is a reminder that sometimes the most impactful businesses are the ones built with heart first.

    Follow along with Belong Kitchen on Instagram @belongkitchen and online at  Belong Kitchen.

    If you’re local to Houston, stop by their Memorial storefront for coffee, grab-and-go meals, and a truly special experience that’s making a difference in the community every single day.

    Top 3 

    1. Paige’s Lash update: current faves Lilly faux mink in Blushing 
    2. Apple Watch — parental controls
    3. Skylight calendar — new favorite family device. Paige’s take, go big or go home! 
    4. Theo of Golden book 
    5. Sourdough baking — have you started this hobby yet??!!
    6. Yia Yia’s restaurant in Houston


    46 min
  • The Weight We Carry: GLP-1s, Business & Unrealistic Expectations with Melissa Musso

    Melissa Musso, NP, joins Paige and Lauren for a follow-up conversation diving deeper into the ever-evolving world of GLP-1 medications and the conversations surrounding them. From stigma to science, this episode unpacks the latest updates, misconceptions, and the very real emotional weight women often carry while balancing motherhood, business, and everyday life.

    Melissa breaks down what’s new in the GLP-1 space, the latest medications coming to market, and why these treatments are becoming about so much more than just weight loss.

    Topics discussed include:

    • Have stigmas around GLP-1s improved, or are they still present? Melissa shares her honest perspective — and why the answer is both yes and no.
    • New products and medications entering the market and what makes them different
    • The growing medical benefits of GLP-1 medications beyond weight loss:
    • Improved liver enzymes and treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
    • Helping prevent progression of chronic kidney disease
    • FDA-approved use for obstructive sleep apnea
    • The emotional side of “doing it all” as women, moms, and business owners
    • Why unrealistic expectations placed on women can become a stigma of their own

    Melissa also shares a book that deeply impacted her perspective on motherhood, partnership, and mental load: Fair Play by Eve Rodsky.

    Top 3’s:

    1. Mary Ruth’s multivitamin hair growth 
    2. Divi scalp serum 
    3. Olaplex hair mask 
    4. Barebells coconut flavor
    5. LMNT electrolytes 
    6. Menoxidyl for hair growth 

    Connect with Melissa on Instagram at @melissamusso.np or through Contour Health RX.

    Connect with Lifestyle & Lenses and follow along on Instagram at @lifestyleandlenses.

    49 min
  • Elevated Experience Series: From Instagram to Interior Design Empire with Oyster Creek Studio

    Lauren and Paige are joined by Aryn Guillory, the visionary behind Oyster Creek Studios, for a conversation that feels equal parts inspiring and wildly practical. This episode dives into the real story behind building a luxury interior design brand—from early days showing up on Instagram to becoming a sought-after studio known for its elevated aesthetic and seamless client experience.

    Aryn shares how she scaled from a one-woman show to a full team while protecting the heart of her brand—ensuring every project still reflects the signature vision and style she built from the ground up. We talk about what it actually takes to grow without losing control, how to hire with intention, and why systems are the secret sauce behind a consistent luxury experience.

    Now offering concierge-level services and a curated furniture line through Oyster Creek Collection, Aryn gives a behind-the-scenes look at expanding your offers in a way that feels aligned (and not chaotic).

    And yes… we’re calling it out: this is another business owner absolutely nailing client experience. From thoughtful details to intentional touchpoints, Aryn shares what makes clients not only book—but stay, refer, and rave.

    We also get real about finding joy in your work—and how that energy translates directly into the growth and sustainability of your business. Because when you actually love what you’re building? It shows.

    In this episode:

    • Turning an Instagram presence into a luxury, in-demand design studio
    • Hiring and building a team that protects your brand vision
    • Scaling offers: when (and how) to expand into collections + concierge services
    • Why joy in your work isn’t optional—it’s a growth strategy

    Connect with Aryn + Oyster Creek:

    • Instagram: @oystercreekstudios
    • Collection: @oystercreekcollection
    • Website: oystercreekstudios.com

    Top 3 from this Episode: 

    1. AirTag for kids so you can find them! 
    2. Aura frame 
    3. Fuji film Polaroid camera for post sessions to keepsake 
    4. CeCe HOMECOURT Surface Cleaner - SOOO GOOD!!
    5. Exfoliating Polish - will make your skin feel like butter!
    6. my favorite robe ever!

    Connect with Lifestyle & Lenses 

    Follow on Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses

    Explore our offerings: lifestyleandlenses.com

    Because building a business you love? It’s way more fun when you don’t do it alone 

    49 min
  • Elevated Experience Series: Spa Done Right with Trellis Spa & Kelleye Martin

    Get ready for a luxury-level masterclass in client experience ✨ because this episode is dripping in details you’ll want to steal (in the chicest way possible). Paige and Lauren sit down with powerhouse Kelleye Martin of Trellis Spa at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, a Forbes Four-Star recognized spa that has truly perfected the art of making clients feel like absolute royalty.

    And when we say she’s sharing… she’s sharing. No gatekeeping, no fluff—just real, actionable insight on how to elevate your business into an experience people can’t stop talking about.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    ✨ How a large-scale luxury spa still feels deeply personal
    Kelleye breaks down how Trellis operates one of the largest spas in the country without losing that intimate, high-touch feel clients crave.

    ✨ The magic is in the details (and the listening)
    From remembering client preferences to weaving in personal “nuggets,” learn how small touches create unforgettable, repeat-worthy experiences.

    ✨ Turning unhappy clients into loyal ones
    Because let’s be real—things happen. Kelleye shares how to gracefully handle complaints and transform tension into trust (aka a skill every business owner needs).

    Why This Episode Matters:

    If you’ve ever wondered what truly separates a good business from a luxury, referral-generating, client-obsessed brand… this is your episode.

    It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing it intentionally.

    Top 3 (okay… Top 6 because we couldn’t help ourselves):

    1. PSA: Book that derm appointment and get your moles checked 🤍
    2. MERIT Beauty “The Uniform” (tint + SPF = effortless glow)
    3. Julie Vos — earrings + bangles = instant polish
    4. Natura Bissé — luxury skincare moment
    5. Oribe densifying spray (hello volume)
    6. Walk-out song vibes:
      • “Gloria” by Laura Branigan
      • “La Grange” by ZZ Top

    Let’s Connect:

    Follow along for more behind-the-scenes, business strategy, and your weekly dose of “you’ve got this” energy:
     Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses
     Website: lifestyleandlenses.com

    48 min
  • Elevated Experience Series: Building a Brand that Shines with Lindsey Leigh (aka Houston Diamond Girl)

    Lauren and Paige are joined by the one and only Lindsey Hohlt of Lindsey Leigh Jewelry—also known as Houston’s Diamond Girl—for this episode in the Elevated Experience series. And let’s just say… she did not gatekeep.

    From building a wildly successful jewelry business from the ground up to stepping fully into entrepreneurship, Lindsey shares the real story behind her brand—how she learned the business side, took the leap to work for herself, and created a luxury experience clients can’t stop talking about.

    We dive into what it actually looks like to market to a luxury audience (hint: it’s not just pretty visuals), how Instagram became both her portfolio and her most powerful marketing tool, and the impact of next-level customer service in building a brand that lasts.

    Plus, real talk on navigating a male-dominated industry, protecting your mindset, and creating space to grow without burnout.

    This one is equal parts inspiring, tactical, and “wait… I needed to hear that.”

    What We Talk About:

    • The story behind Lindsey Leigh Jewelry and how it all began
    • Making the leap from working for someone else to building your own brand
    • Marketing to a luxury client and what actually makes an impact
    • Creating a standout client experience that keeps people coming back
    • Turning Instagram into your portfolio and your best marketing tool
    • Navigating and thriving in a male-dominated industry
    • Mindset shifts that will change the way you show up in business
    • Delegation, boundaries, and simple ways to avoid burnout

    Lindsey’s Standout Advice:

    ✨ Unfollow anything (or anyone) that brings negative energy—you don’t need it
     ✨ “It’s not that big of a deal” — the reminder your nervous system needed
     ✨ Sometimes growth looks like delegation… or just turning off notifications
     ✨ Just say yes to the thing—you’ll figure it out along the way
     ✨ Shop local, shop small—community support goes both ways

    Top 3: 

    1. Kiehl’s Dry Hand Cream 
    2. Water for Elephants Musical
    3. Belvedere vodka (espresso martinis, obviously)
    4. Fresh eggs from backyard chickens (leave them on the counter—trust)
    5. Lindsey’s mantra: Just say yes to the trip or activity. You won’t regret it! 
    6. Shop local + small

    Connect with Lindsey:
    Instagram: @houstondiamondgirl
    Website: lindseyleighjewelry.com

    Let’s Connect:
    Follow us on Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses
    Explore more: www.lifestyleandlenses.com

    1 hr 4 min
  • Elevated Experience Series: with Special Guest Kelly Hornberger, Luxury Wedding Photographer

    Welcome to the kickoff of our Elevated Experience mini series—where we’re diving into what it really looks like to create a high-end, unforgettable client experience across industries.

    In this first episode, we’re sitting down with luxury destination wedding photographer Kelly Hornberger for an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the life and business of a wedding photographer. From the highlight reel moments to the challenges no one talks about, Kelly shares what it takes to build a brand that feels both elevated and deeply personal.

    This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t come from comparison—it comes from clarity, passion, and staying in your own lane.

    We talk about the evolution of her business, the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and how stepping into luxury wasn’t an overnight shift—but a series of intentional decisions.

    If you’re building a business that you want to feel aligned, elevated, and sustainable—this one is for you.

    In this episode, we cover:

    ✨ How Kelly stepped into the world of destination wedding photography

    ✨ The advice that changed everything: “Pray for your passion”

    ✨ Letting go of comparison and focusing on your own path

    ✨ The role film photography played in elevating her brand

    ✨ What she would tell herself if she were starting over today

    ✨ The real-life highs and lows of running a wedding photography business

    About Our Guest:

    Kelly Hornberger is a luxury destination wedding photographer known for her timeless, refined approach and elevated client experience. She captures weddings around the world with an intentional eye and a heart for storytelling.

    Follow Kelly: @kellyhornberger_photo

    Website: kellyhornberger.com

    Top 3:

    ✨ Shave Oil – Game changer. Smoother, less irritation, and honestly just feels a little more luxe in your routine.

    ✨ Batiste Dry Shampoo (Brown) – Our ride-or-die for stretching wash days and blending those roots. Busy mom + business owner essential.

    ✨ Vitamin D – The simple habit that makes a big difference. Energy, mood, all the things.

    ✨ Minnow Wellness – A go-to for feeling your best from the inside out. We’re here for anything that supports real life wellness.

    ✨ Breville Espresso Machine – Your at-home coffee shop moment ☕️ Because sometimes the elevated experience starts in your own kitchen.

    ✨ Danger Coffee – Clean, mineral-rich coffee that pairs perfectly with your morning workflow (and your Breville, obviously).

    Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses

    Explore more: www.lifestyleandlenses.com

    59 min
  • Be Kind Without Being Walked On: Handling Difficult Clients with Confidence

    In this episode of Lifestyle & Lenses, Paige and Lauren reflect on year one of the brand — what started as an idea has grown into a full platform, complete with a fresh rebrand and a brand new website: www.lifestyleandlenses.com.

    From big-picture wins to lessons learned, they’re sharing what this first year has really looked like behind the scenes — and where things are headed next.

    Then, they dive into a hot topic every business owner faces: how to handle difficult clients.

    This conversation is honest, practical, and rooted in real-life experience — covering everything from setting boundaries to navigating tough interactions with grace (even when it’s hard).

    They discuss:

    • Why boundaries are essential for sustainable business growth
    • How to identify the root cause of client issues before reacting
    • The balance between kindness, professionalism, and self-respect
    • How to avoid being taken advantage of while still delivering a luxury client experience
    • When it’s time to walk away from a client who no longer aligns
    • Shifting from emotional reactions to intentional, business-minded responses
    • The power of the pause — and why silence can be your strongest tool

    This episode is your reminder that you can run a successful, client-centered business without sacrificing your standards or your peace.

    Top 3 of the Week:

    ✨ Car scissors (aka… just keep a pair in your car, trust us)

    ✨ Car trash can — small upgrade, big difference

    ✨ Travel band-aids in your camera bag (you’ll thank us later)

    ✨ Face wipes + Hand Wipes for post-workout or on-the-go refresh (Paige’s fave)

    ✨ Le Labo home scent obsession

    ✨ Paige’s go-to crossbody bag


    Let’s Connect:

    Follow us on Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses

    Learn more + explore our offers: www.lifestyleandlenses.com

    50 min
  • AI, But Make It Personal: How We Use AI Tools in Our Biz but keep the Relational Touch

    In this episode of Lifestyle and Lenses, Lauren and Paige revisit one of the most downloaded topics from Season 1 — AI in business — and give it a fresh, 2025-style update. From ChatGPT and course creation to Imagen and Evoto for editing, they’re sharing their favorite tools, best practices, and hot takes on how AI can streamline your business without losing your personal touch.

    Whether you’re looking to use ChatGPT to sound more like you, wondering how AI fits into your editing workflow, or curious about where to keep that irreplaceable human connection — this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at how these creative entrepreneurs balance tech and heart.

    ✨ What You’ll Hear

    • Lauren’s current book recs: The Diamond Eye and The Nightingale
    • Paige’s favorite earring for second or third piercings
    • Hero Patches (the acne-spot treatment we swear by)
    • Why every family needs an Apple ID family account
    • Favorite yoga pants + what’s keeping us comfy and cute
    • Using ChatGPT to mimic your voice in marketing pieces
    • How to leverage AI for course creation and organization
    • Insider ChatGPT tips and tricks for better searches
    • Why Imagen is Paige’s new editing BFF (free edits link included!)
    • Honest thoughts on AI culling vs. creative control
    • A peek at our latest AI touch-up tool obsession — Evoto

    💡 Key Takeaways

    • AI can enhance your creativity — not replace it.
    • ChatGPT is a secret weapon for copy, course planning, and content strategy.
    • Imagen and Evoto can speed up your editing without losing your signature look.
    • The best AI workflows still leave room for you — your taste, tone, and artistry.

    💕 Let’s Connect

    Follow us on Instagram → @lifestyleandlenses
     Learn more about the Lifestyle and Lenses Collective → lifestyleandlenses.com
     ✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review so more photographers and creatives can join our business bestie circle!

    46 min
  • Hot Take: GLP-1s, Wellness, and Real Talk with Special Guest Melissa Musso

    In this engaging and informative conversation, Lauren Holub and Paige McInturff sit down with Melissa Musso, Nurse Practitioner of Contour Health to unpack one of the most talked-about lifestyle and wellness trends of the year — GLP-1 medications.

    From the science behind insulin resistance to the mental and emotional load surrounding food and body image, this episode takes a real-talk approach to what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what it really means to pursue sustainable health.

    Melissa breaks down common misconceptions about GLP-1s, explains their benefits beyond weight loss, and shares why personalized care and a holistic approach matter most. The trio also dives into skincare, mental health, and how managing chronic conditions can transform your overall well-being.

    If you’ve ever wondered whether GLP-1s are just a “quick fix” or a genuine medical tool for better health — this one’s for you.

    💡 What You’ll Hear in This Episode

    • The truth about how GLP-1 medications actually work
    • Why insulin resistance is often the hidden barrier to weight loss
    • How to separate myths from medicine when it comes to GLP-1s
    • The surprising connection between weight loss and skincare changes
    • How to protect your skin (SPF 30+, always!) during physical transitions
    • Why mental health and food freedom go hand-in-hand
    • The importance of non-scale victories and redefining success
    • How telemedicine is changing access to personalized care
    • Melissa’s advice on tackling the stigma around weight management

    🧠 Key Takeaways

    • GLP-1s are not a shortcut — they’re a medical tool with lasting benefits.
    • Sunscreen matters (yes, even on cloudy days).
    • Weight loss and facial aging are normal physiological changes.
    • Insulin resistance often needs medical attention before results appear.
    • A holistic approach includes mental health, lifestyle, and care support.

    💬 Connect + Continue the Conversation

    Join the conversation with us on Instagram @lifestyleandlenses
    and share your thoughts on this week’s episode! Follow Melissa on Instagram @melissamusso.np (formerly @saltyinjector).

    For more support, strategy, and community, check out the Lifestyle and Lenses Collective — your inner circle for business growth and personal well-being.

    51 min
  • From Retail to Reels: Social Media Secrets with Courtney Prochaska of Renovate Houston

    On this episode of Lifestyle and Lenses, Paige and Lauren sit down with the ever-creative Courtney Prochaska — retailer turned social media guru and the powerhouse behind @renovatehouston
    . After years of running a successful storefront, Courtney has mastered the art of impactful online marketing — and today, she’s spilling her top tips for thriving on social media without burning out or posting seven days a week.

    Get ready for practical strategies, insider tricks, and some serious light-bulb moments that’ll have you rethinking your Instagram strategy before your next post goes live.

    💡 What You’ll Hear in This Episode

    • How to find and use your Instagram insights to your advantage
    • The easiest ways to recycle content and stay visible without reinventing the wheel
    • Insider secrets on making a single photo go viral in your feed
    • Where to find content inspiration that actually grows your brand
    • The correct reel dimensions (yep, there’s a right one!) — and why it matters
    • Why social media is meant to be social, and how to connect with potential buyers authentically
    • Simple content ideas you can implement today to get unstuck
    • How to boost engagement on your account
    • Using AI tools to streamline your content creation process
    • Keywords vs. hashtags — which is really better in 2025?

    Top 3: 

    1. Toms but elevated 
    2. Dry Brushing for the body - 2.1 gold bond body cream 
    3.  Le Labo Sampler 
    4. ADHD is Awesome book + audiobook
    5. Bob Goff Daily Devo 
    6. Frozen River 


    💬 Let’s Connect

    Follow us on Instagram → @lifestyleandlenses

    Learn more about the Lifestyle and Lenses Collective → lifestyleandlenses.com

    ✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review so more photographers and creatives can join our business-bestie circle!

    48 min

About Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life

From the publisher's feed

Two photographer moms get real about the art of photography, running a business, and the beautiful chaos of motherhood. From gear reviews and client stories to creative inspiration and parenting…