In this episode, we're breaking down the most common mistakes providers make when it comes to laser and energy-based treatments—and more importantly, how to avoid them.

From over-relying on energy levels to skipping test spots, Kathy dives into the nuances of treatment planning and patient safety. She discusses why higher energy doesn’t always mean better results, how to select the right technique on purpose, and what it really means to understand your settings—not just individually, but in how they interact.

In today's discussion:

• Using higher energy for better results
• Correct candidates for specific settings
• Balancing protection and shielding with cooling
• Understanding how settings interact
• Skipping test spots
• When in doubt, slow down
• Overlap: overtreating vs. undertreating
• Understanding different techniques and when to use them
• Choosing a technique on purpose
• Assuming more passes = better results
• Assuming sun exposure means no treatments
• Not adjusting settings across multiple treatments
• Not understanding skincare's role in treatment outcomes

Links & Resources:
MINT Online E-courses
AesthetiCare Medspa

Ads from the episode:
Renee John Uniforms
Vrtly Screen Management
Online E-courses

In this episode, we sit down with Judy Ribbey, RN, CLT, the first hired nurse at AesthetiCare Medspa in Kansas City, to explore her journey through the evolving world of aesthetics. From the early days of injection protocols to mentoring fellow providers and navigating industry challenges, Judy shares invaluable insights and advice for aspiring aesthetic nurses.

In today's discussion:

• Evolving injection protocols
• Her start in the industry
• Breaking into aesthetics back then
• Navigating tough clients
• Building confidence and skill
• Lifting up fellow providers and women
• Favorite treatments over time
• Managing complications
• Memorable moments in aesthetics
• Tips for new nurses
• Battling burnout

Links & Resources:
MINT Online E-courses
AesthetiCare Medspa

Ads from the episode:

Renee John Uniforms
Vrtly Screen Management
Online E-courses

In this episode, Matt Taranto reflects on nearly three decades in the aesthetics industry—sharing insights, lessons, and a little nostalgia. From the treatments that defined the '90s to the game-changing devices and skincare approaches we rely on today, Matt walks us through what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what he’s most excited for in the future of aesthetics.

In today's discussion:

• Popular aesthetic treatments in the 1990s
• How technology and devices have evolved over the decades
• The growing role of skincare in today’s clinics
• Industry favorites and trends we loved “back in the day”
• Innovations and advancements we’re excited about moving forward

Links & Resources:
MINT Online E-courses
AesthetiCare Medspa

Ads from the episode:

Renee John Uniforms
Vrtly Screen Management
Online E-courses

Today’s episode is a special follow-up to our March Madness Before & After Bracket—where followers voted for the most impressive transformation from a pool of incredible results provided by our contest sponsor, AesthetiCare Medspa. The winning result? A total game-changer.

Kathy sits down with the provider behind the top treatment, Sammy Williams, to uncover exactly how she achieved such a standout outcome. From the client’s initial skin concerns to age-related changes and the VISIA consultation that helped shape the plan, we’re diving deep into every step of the process.

Whether you're a provider looking to up your treatment game or a client curious about what it takes to get real results—this episode is packed with gems.

In today's discussion:

• Client concerns and skin condition
• Age-related skin changes in women
• VISIA consultation insights
• Prepping the skin with medical-grade skincare
• Skin prep and brightening recommendations
• Treatment reveal and timeline
• Treatment settings and technique discussion
• Energy delivery and overlap considerations
• Post-care protocols
• Long-term plan and next steps for the client

Links & Resources:
MINT Online E-courses
The Perfect Consultation
Alastin Aluminate A-Luminate Brightening Serum
Avène Thermal Spring Water
Intense Hydration Face Mask
CLn® Facial Cleanser
Revision CMT Post-Procedure Cream
AesthetiCare Medspa

Ads from the episode:

Renee John Uniforms
Vrtly Screen Management
Online E-courses

In the first of a three part series, “Aesthetics Over the Years,” we’re exploring how the industry has evolved—from emerging preventative health trends to the game-changing technologies redefining treatments. Kathy will discuss navigating economic downturns, lessons learned from experience, and what the future holds for aesthetics. Let’s dive in!

In today's discussion:

• Recruit help
• Round up or add a donation at checkout 
• Invite the charity to attend events
• Dedicate tips from bar/performance
• Match donations on patient accounts
• Give access to physical item donations
• Choose an organization that fuels your passion
• Reach out to those you’ve donated to
• Generate donation items from partner businesses
• Build exciting, comprehensive packages
• Pick the right time to participate
• Say yes to others, so they say yes to you
• Don’t be afraid to ask
• Focus on the impact

Links & Resources:

MINT Online E-courses

Ads from the episode:

Renee John Uniforms
Vrtly Screen Management
Online E-courses

In the first of a three part series, “Aesthetics Over the Years,” we’re exploring how the industry has evolved—from emerging preventative health trends to the game-changing technologies redefining treatments. Kathy will discuss navigating economic downturns, lessons learned from experience, and what the future holds for aesthetics. Let’s dive in!

In today's discussion:

• Lessons from experience
• Emergence of preventative health
• Navigating economic downturns
• Outdated vs. game-changing technology
• Future trends in aesthetics
• Industry-shifting devices and services
• Key lessons learned

Links & Resources:

MINT Online E-courses
Episode #57 - The New Menopause with Dr. Mary Claire Haver

Ads from the episode:
Vrtly Screen Management
Tuesday Training
Online E-courses

Today, we’re diving into external marketing with AesthetiCare’s External Marketing expert, Laurie Morrissey. Building brand recognition and growing your medspa through community connections develops a channel for new leads to find your business. We cover collaborating with like-minded businesses, hosting impactful events, leveraging social media, and using AI to streamline marketing. Plus, Laurie shares why starting small—just one event a month—can create big momentum for your business.

In today's discussion:

• Building brand recognition within your local community
• Connecting with other businesses for collaboration
• Finding like-minded businesses that align with your goals
• Hosting small, impactful events
• Organizing give-back events to engage your community
• Defining the goal of each event for maximum success
• Customizing events to fit your brand and audience
• Starting small: One event a month to build momentum
• Social media strategies that are working today
• Using AI to streamline marketing and operations

Links & Resources:

LM Connect
MINT Online E-courses
Events E-course
Virtual Training
Marketing E-course

Ads from the episode:
Vrtly Screen Management
Tuesday Training
Clinics To Watch Nomination Form
Online E-courses
The Front Desk for Managers

Understanding your numbers is the key to running a successful and profitable medspa. In this episode, Matt and Kathy break down the essential reports every owner and provider should track—from gross revenue and ROI by service type to service-to-product ratios and provider performance. 

They share how to support and train your team, when it’s time to make tough staffing decisions, and the importance of monthly meetings to review key metrics. Plus, we’ll dive into the reports AesthetiCare runs, how to pull the right data, and how to set realistic goals for new clinics. Whether you're a seasoned owner or just starting out, these insights will help you make data-driven decisions that drive growth.

In today's discussion:

• Essential Numbers for Owners:
  • Net revenue
  • Revenue generated per hour worked
  • Return on investment (ROI) by service type
• Key Metrics for Providers:
  • Service-to-product ratio
  • Revenue generated by services
• Managing & Supporting Providers:
  • Encouraging collaboration and training among providers
  • Knowing when to let go of underperforming providers
• Using Reports to Drive Success:
  • Running and analyzing key reports (including AesthetiCare’s approach)
  • How to effectively pull and interpret reports
  • Monthly meetings: Reviewing numbers and setting goals
• Setting Goals for New Clinics:
  • Establishing benchmarks for financial and operational success

Links from the episode:
AesthetiCare Membership
MINT Online E-courses
Vrtly Screen Management
Tuesday Trainings
NOMINATE A CLINIC

Welcome back to the podcast, and happy Valentine’s Day! Whether you love this holiday or just tolerate it for the chocolate, today’s episode is all about appreciation. I’m sharing 10 things I’m loving this Valentine’s Day—from game-changing skincare treatments to everyday essentials that make life easier (and yes, a special shoutout to Matt for keeping things running smoothly). So grab a coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into my current favorites!

Links from the Episode: 

• Business Virtual Immersion Seminar - March 13
• Sculptra E-course 
• Ramp Credit Card Management
• Ripley Rader pants
• Supplements - Book a Virtual Training Call with AC Wellness
• Episode #57 - A Night with Dr. Mary Claire Haver
• ChatGPT
• MOXI Bright (BBL + MOXI) 
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Book a Virtual Training Call with AC Wellness

The season finale of the podcast is bringing you the recording from our Night with Dr. Mary Claire Haver.  Dr. Haver is a board-certified Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist, a Certified Menopause Practitioner from The Menopause Society, a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist, and a passionate entrepreneur and best-selling author with a focus on women's health.

In this episode she discusses the importance of addressing menopause openly and with a comprehensive approach.  She highlights the lack of specialized training in menopause how women are taking control of the aging process. From personalized health plans, nutrition, and the significance of hormone therapy, Dr. Haver shares the experience of the NEW menopause. 

In today's discussion:

• Dr. Haver's experience with women's health
• Lack of menopause training
• Patient experiences with menopause
• Visceral fat & detection
• Patient assessment & HRT
• GLP-1 Medications
• Protein, Muscle & Bone Health
• The truth about menopause
• HRT Risks
• The impacts of a quality diet
• Women's health funding

Links from the episode:
The New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver
Vrtly Screen Management
Tuesday Training
Clinics To Watch Nomination Form
Online E-courses
AesthetiCare Medspa
Rainy Day Books