On this Fragrance Friday special of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta is joined by Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, the visionary founders of The Maker—a brand that blends fragrance, design, and hospitality into an immersive sensory world. Known for revolutionizing beauty with Fresh, Lev and Alina have taken their creativity further, building an environment where scent is more than perfume—it’s memory, fantasy, and emotion brought to life.

Their journey began with The Maker Hotel in Hudson, New York, a living canvas of textures and stories, where each space feels like stepping into a narrative. From there, they expanded into fragrance—crafting scents that don’t follow rigid note pyramids but instead tell stories. Each bottle is its own world: Fire, inspired by intimate nights by the fireplace; Naked, a celebration of dawn and intimacy; and Revel, born from the joy of milestones and love, designed to bottle life’s most unforgettable moments.

For Lev, this connection to fragrance runs deep. Growing up in Soviet Russia with limited access to perfumes, he witnessed the transformative power of a single French fragrance his mother acquired on the black market—an experience that shaped his lifelong belief in scent as a gateway to emotion and memory.

The Maker’s fragrances are intentionally genderless, designed to be universal yet deeply personal, allowing wearers to interpret them through their own lives. More than a brand, The Maker is an invitation to pause, savor, and connect with beauty in a fast-paced world. Tune in to hear Lev and Alina share the inspirations behind The Maker, their creative philosophy, and how they’re redefining what fragrance can mean.

To learn more about The Maker, visit their website and social media. 

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) Introduction & Guest Welcome

(1:02) The Maker: Inspiration Behind the Brand

(4:27) From Retail to Hotel: Crafting an Immersive Experience

(6:45) Fragrance as Storytelling: Childhood Memories & Transformation

(11:48) The Role of Fantasy & Emotion in Fragrance Creation

(14:45) Creating the First Fragrance: Lover & Its Inspirations

(18:05) Fragrance as Character & Storytelling Approach

(20:48) Balancing Accessibility with Emotional Connection

(27:00) New Fragrance Launch: Revel & Celebratory Inspiration

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On this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta sits down with Julie Williams, founder of Leaf People, to explore the transformative power of plants, herbalism, and plant-based skincare. Julie takes listeners on a journey from her upbringing in rural Alaska—surrounded by wild forests and medicinal plants—to her global studies in botanical medicine, and ultimately to the creation of a skincare line that celebrates the intelligence of plants.

Long before “clean beauty” became a buzzword, Julie envisioned formulations that go beyond the usual staples. Leaf People integrates powerful botanicals like reishi, rhodiola, ginkgo, burdock root, and horsetail, capturing the full spectrum of each plant’s chemical and energetic properties. Her approach is holistic, emphasizing whole-plant synergy and honoring the subtle energetics of each ingredient through practices like meditation, Reiki, and blessings by Tibetan monks.

Julie also shares her philosophy of ally pairing, inspired by how plants naturally grow together in communities, and how this principle shapes her formulations. Beyond skincare, Leaf People reflects a broader vision of connection—between people, plants, and the environment. From farmers markets to direct customer education, Julie builds a brand rooted in respect, sustainability, and shared ecosystem thinking.

This episode is an invitation to discover herbalism, explore the untapped potential of botanicals, and understand how intentional, plant-based skincare can nourish not only your skin but also your connection to nature. Tune in to hear Julie Williams share her journey, the inspiration behind Leaf People, and her perspective on how plants can heal, guide, and transform.

To learn more about Leaf People, visit their website and social media. 

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Julie’s Early Life & Introduction to Herbalism

(2:45) Global Exploration of Botanical Medicine

(3:57) Formal Education in Herbalism

(6:55) Complexity of Plant Energetics & Healing

(7:34) Clean Beauty & Leaf People’s Mission

(11:05) Key Medicinal Plants & Their Benefits

(14:18) Plant-to-Bottle Philosophy

(18:30) Whole Plant vs Extracts: Synergy & Absorption

(20:09) Preserving Therapeutic Intelligence

(24:03) Energy Work, Meditation & Connection with Plants

(28:39) Importance of Plants in Human Life & Well-being

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta sits down with actress, producer, and entrepreneur Tika Sumpter for a candid conversation on redefining beauty, navigating motherhood, and a first look at building her new brand, Yummy Tummy. Known for her powerful presence on screen, Tika opens up about her creative journey beyond Hollywood and the drive that pushed her into wellness and entrepreneurship.

Tika shares how her upbringing shaped her ideas of beauty and confidence, grounding her in authenticity rather than Hollywood’s narrow ideals. She reflects on how social media often presents only the “highlight reel,” reminding us that true beauty is rooted in health, self-acceptance, and evolution rather than perfection.

Motherhood also plays a central role in Tika’s story. After her own challenges with preeclampsia and postpartum recovery, she recognized how little grace women often give themselves during this transformative period. That realization inspired Yummy Tummy, a line of multi-use, plant-based products designed to simplify care for both mom and baby—offering support, healing, and confidence in the most tender moments of life.

But building a brand isn’t glamorous. Tika pulls back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes realities—compliance, packaging, marketing—and the resilience it takes to bring a meaningful product into the world. Her honesty highlights both the challenges and the rewards of creating something that truly matters.

This is more than a beauty conversation—it’s about self-rediscovery, empowerment, and rewriting the narrative of what it means to care for ourselves and our families.Tune in to hear Tika’s journey and the vision behind Yummy Tummy.

To learn more about Tika Sumpter visit her website and social media. Don’t forget to subscribe to Skin Anarchy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Reach out to us through email with any questions.

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) Welcome & Introduction

(0:27) Meet Tika Sumpter & Her Journey

(1:01) Defining Creativity and Redefining Success

(4:04) Beauty, Confidence, and Representation

(7:38) Navigating Expectations in Hollywood

(9:20) Shifting Perspectives on Motherhood

(13:20) Self-Image, Growth, and Vulnerability

(16:50) Building Yummy Tummy and Its Mission

(19:39) Celebrating Stretch Marks & Body Changes

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta sits down with Bree McKeen, founder of Evelyn & Bobbie, the brand rewriting the rules of bras with comfort, science, and confidence at the core. For decades, bras have been built on outdated designs that cause pain, poor posture, and even body dysmorphia. Bree is here to change that.

Coming from a background in finance and healthcare investing, Bree didn’t expect to end up in fashion. But as a woman wearing a 34G bra through long workdays, she knew the frustration firsthand—rigid underwires, digging straps, and sizing chaos that never seemed to fit. Instead of blaming her body, Bree questioned why bras hadn’t evolved in nearly a century. That question sparked a revolution.

At Evelyn & Bobbie, bras are reengineered for real bodies, not flat blueprints. With input from over 270 fit models, flexible sizing, and adaptive fabrics developed with top athletic manufacturers, their designs mold to your shape instead of fighting it. No underwires, no shame—just support that feels like a second skin.

But this isn’t just about comfort. Evelyn & Bobbie bras are trusted by surgeons for post-surgical recovery, praised for posture-friendly design, and cherished by women rediscovering confidence after years of pain and poor fit. Their message is bold and simple: your body is perfect—bras are the problem. Tune in to hear how Bree McKeen and Evelyn & Bobbie are transforming an everyday essential into a tool for health, healing, and empowerment.

To learn more about Evelyn & Bobbie visit their website and social media.

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) Introduction & Fast Fashion

(0:41) Meet Bree McKeen, Founder of Evelyn and Bobbie

(1:01) Bree's Background & Inspiration

(2:03) The Struggles of Finding a Comfortable Bra

(3:15) Health Impacts & Posture Issues

(5:00) Outdated Bra Design & Industry Standards

(6:35) Sizing Struggles & Body Image

(8:18) The Flaws in Conventional Bra Construction

(11:17) Designing Bras That Adapt to Women’s Bodies

(13:00) Body Dysmorphia & Fashion’s Role

(16:01) Evelyn & Bobbie’s Philosophy & Fit Models

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta is joined by Ewelina Aiossa, founder of Topical Skin, to explore a new category she calls “clean dermaceuticals.” With over 15 years of experience at powerhouse brands like L'Oréal, SkinCeuticals, and Avene, Ewelina brings a unique blend of corporate expertise and indie innovation to her own line — one that’s redefining ingredient integrity and reshaping the future of skin health.

Ewelina breaks down what makes “clean dermaceuticals” different, emphasizing that it’s not just about what formulas leave out, but about the sourcing, synergy, and clinical validation of every ingredient. From Ayurvedic and traditional medicine inspirations to modern delivery systems, she explains how Topical Skin balances heritage remedies with cutting-edge biotech for results-driven skincare.

Listeners will also learn how Ewelina applies the principles of biohacking to skin longevity — creating barrier-supporting, antioxidant-rich formulas designed to keep skin healthy, hydrated, and resilient against modern stressors. A standout innovation is her use of oleosomes, nutrient-rich oil bodies that act as natural slow-release systems for hydration and stability, bridging nature with clinical science.

From exosome defense oils that shield against pollution and blue light to a superfood-inspired eye cream loved by makeup artists, Topical Skin is proving that clean beauty and derm-grade performance don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

This episode is a sneak peek into a skincare philosophy that’s about more than trends — it’s about building timeless, high-integrity formulations for those who demand both safety and results. Tune in to discover how Topical Skin is setting a new standard in clean dermaceuticals.

To learn more about Topical Skin visit their website and social media.

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) Introduction & Guest Welcome

(0:55) Ewelina’s Background & Experience in Beauty

(2:40) Defining “Clean Dermaceutical”

(5:01) Ingredient Sourcing & Clean Formulation Approach

(6:29) Biohacking in Skincare & Longevity

(11:02) Oleosomes: A Novel Delivery Technology

(15:38) Exposome Defense & Environmental Protection

(17:00) Deep Dive Into the Face Oil Formula

(20:49) Multi-Use Benefits & Consumer Experience

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta sits down with board-certified dermatologist and Surface Deep founder, Dr. Alicia Zalka, to challenge everything you thought you knew about deodorant and body care. With over three decades in medical dermatology, Dr. Zalka shares why the underarm — and the rest of your body — deserves the same ingredient-conscious, science-backed attention we give our faces. Her journey from clinic to product creation started with an accidental discovery: a forgotten deodorant, a swipe of glycolic acid, and a surprising odor-free day.

Unlike conventional deodorants that mask odor or antiperspirants that block sweat, Surface Deep takes a different route — keeping skin’s pH balanced, supporting beneficial bacteria, and creating an environment where odor-causing microbes can’t thrive. Dr. Zalka explains the science behind sweat, the role of the skin microbiome, and why killing all bacteria is not the goal.

She also dives into the delicate nature of underarm skin, why common deodorant ingredients can cause irritation, and how glycolic acid — when formulated correctly — can be a game changer for smooth, odor-free skin. Beyond the underarms, Dr. Zalka introduces the “Stinky Seven” — seven surprising body zones prone to odor — and her take on the rise of whole-body deodorants.

This conversation is equal parts myth-busting and practical skin science. If you’ve ever wondered why your deodorant stops working, what’s really behind body odor, or how to care for your skin without disrupting its natural balance, this episode will change the way you think about body care forever.

To learn more about Surface Deep visit their website and social media.

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Introduction & Importance of Body Care

(1:05) Dr. Alicia Zalka’s Career Background

(3:04) Inspiration Behind Surface Deep Deodorant

(6:38) Understanding Underarm Skin and Its Unique Properties

(9:11) The Truth About Sweat vs. Odor

(15:33) Issues with Conventional Deodorants & Skin Barrier

(17:43) How Surface Deep Antiodorant Works

(22:30) The Importance of pH and Microbiome in Body Care

(24:09) Role and Benefits of Glycolic Acid in Body Care

(28:18) The "Stinky Seven": Key Odor-Prone Body Areas

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with Blenna LaRue, global education leader for AnteAGE MD, to explore one of the most buzz-worthy innovations in beauty: exosome technology. With nearly two decades of experience in the aesthetics world—working with brands like SkinCeuticals, Neocutis, and ZO SkinHealth—Blenna brings deep industry insight and a passion for advancing skincare science.

The conversation dives into the difference between simply treating skin concerns and truly regenerating skin health. Blenna explains how exosomes and stem cell growth factors work at the cellular level to optimize skin function, improve resilience, and maintain a youthful glow—long before signs of aging appear.

Listeners get an inside look at AnteAGE’s unique approach, which uses human-derived exosomes for precise, cell-to-cell communication, and biosomes—a biomimetic alternative designed for global accessibility and stability. Blenna shares how these technologies are rigorously tested for potency and why lyophilization (freeze-drying) is key to preserving their effectiveness.

This isn’t just about anti-aging creams—it’s about preventative care and pairing advanced formulas with professional treatments like microneedling or fractional lasers to supercharge results. Whether you’re in your late 20s or well into your skincare journey, this episode reveals how exosome technology could be your most powerful ally in keeping skin healthy, strong, and radiant.

Tune in for a forward-thinking conversation that will change how you view your skincare routine—and discover why the future of beauty isn’t repair, it’s regeneration.

To learn more about AnteAGE visit their website and social media.

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Introduction to Blenna LaRue and AnteAGE

(1:09) Blenna’s Career Journey: From Surgery to Aesthetics

(2:59) Shift to Regenerative Medicine and Exosomes

(4:31) Regenerative Skincare vs. Anti-Aging

(6:12) The Importance of Human-Derived Exosomes

(8:39) What Are Biosomes and How Do They Work?

(10:53) Lyophilization and Exosome Stability

(13:53) Quantifying Exosomes in Skincare

(17:35) Addressing Concerns About Exosome Safety and Blood-Brain Barrier

Learn more about Function Health and join using our link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/SKINANARCHY

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Dr. Ekta sits down with Sarah Chung Park—CEO of Landing International and the visionary behind K-Beauty World—for a behind-the-scenes look at how K-beauty is evolving from trend to global benchmark. What began as quirky packaging and novelty ingredients has matured into an innovation-driven category focused on real efficacy, formulation transparency, and cultural inclusivity. Sarah shares how she went from building a matchmaking platform for emerging beauty brands to launching over 180 K-beauty lines into U.S. retail—and how that journey reshaped her understanding of skin, culture, and global beauty standards.

K-Beauty World has launchd at Ulta Beauty, a curated ecosystem that blends education, community, and inclusive storytelling. From pushing Korean brands to expand shade ranges for Western consumers to reframing the conversation around “glass skin,” Sarah is raising the bar for what modern beauty should look like—accessible, results-driven, and deeply human. She also touches on how today’s ingredient-literate consumers are demanding more from formulations, and why K-beauty’s pipeline of skin science is driving a broader industry shift.This episode offers more than a look into a beauty category—it’s a conversation about raising standards, bridging cultures, and reimagining what skincare can be when powered by empathy and innovation.

Tune in to hear how Sarah Chung Park is redefining the future of beauty—one brand, one shade, and one thoughtful launch at a time.

To learn more about Sarah Chung Park visit her website and social media. 

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Introduction to Sarah Chung and Her Journey

(1:03) From Business Plans to K-Beauty: Sarah’s Path

(3:02) The Early Days of K-Beauty in the U.S.

(5:02) The Growing Respect for K-Beauty Technology

(7:02) Finding Unique Products: The Gaps Sarah Aimed to Fill

(10:02) Innovating with Spicule, PDRN, and Exosomes

(14:15) Shifting the Focus from Glass Skin to Healthy Skin

(17:59) K-Beauty World: A Platform for Innovation and Inclusivity

(22:05) K-Beauty's Role in Raising Standards for Skincare

(27:17) The Intersection of Food, Wellness, and Beauty in Korean Culture

Learn more about Function Health and join using our link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/SKINANARCHY

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with the iconic Patrick Starrr—beauty mogul, influencer, and founder of ONE/SIZE—for an unfiltered conversation on how empathy, innovation, and identity can redefine what beauty means today. Patrick opens up about his transition from top-tier influencer to brand founder to licensed esthetician, sharing how a desire for true efficacy and skin knowledge drove him back to school, even while leading a growing brand.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Patrick’s emotional connection to beauty shaped every detail of ONE/SIZE—from inclusive design to high-performance products built for real skin needs. He shares the brand’s powerful origin story and the deeper mission behind it: to serve the overlooked, celebrate individuality, and build with intention.

You’ll also hear about his SPF breakthrough, “On ‘Til Dawn,” and how he cracked the code to deliver sun protection that works over makeup—without compromising wear or texture. Throughout the conversation, Patrick’s passion for storytelling, education, and community shines through. His perspective on beauty as a form of communication—and empathy as a business model—offers valuable lessons for founders, creatives, and beauty lovers alike.

Tune in to hear how Patrick Starrr is rewriting the rules of beauty, from science-backed SPF to emotional entrepreneurship—only on Skin Anarchy.

Shop ONE/SIZE and visit their social media. 

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Introduction to Patrick Starr and His Journey in Beauty

(2:05) From Influencer to Founder: The Story of ONE/SIZE

(4:06) The Importance of Efficacy in Beauty Products

(6:12) ONE/SIZE: Inclusivity Through Packaging and Design

(10:05) The Challenge of Formulating Makeup Products

(12:07) Communication and Marketing Strategy Behind One Size

(15:05) Building Authentic Relationships with Influencers

(17:12) Navigating the Influencer World and Staying True to Values

(20:27) Game-Changing SPF: The Inspiration Behind "On 'Til Dawn"

(27:24) The Business of Beauty: Time, Money, and Product Innovation

(28:29) The Responsibility of Influencers and Being a Design Thinker

Learn more about Function Health and join using our link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/SKINANARCHY

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with Minou Clark, CEO of RealSelf, for an in-depth look at how the platform is transforming the way people approach aesthetics. With a background in digital media and audience growth at companies like BuzzFeed, The Maury Show, and 1111 Media with Paris Hilton, Minou brings a unique perspective to leading the largest destination for researching cosmetic procedures and connecting with board-certified providers.

Minou shares how RealSelf is tackling the rising tide of misinformation around aesthetics. By leveraging its doctor community and vast data, the platform empowers people with science-backed education and myth-busting content. She explains how RealSelf’s credibility has allowed it to expand beyond surgical procedures to include med spas, skincare, and non-surgical beauty experiences—all while maintaining rigorous vetting standards for consumer safety.

The conversation also explores how pop culture and first-party data fuel RealSelf’s growth. Minou discusses using viral moments and celebrity-driven conversations to bring audiences in, then delivering trustworthy, expert insights. She touches on the company’s plans for the future, including a full website redesign, a refreshed brand identity, and the integration of AI tools to make its content even more accessible.

For industry professionals, Minou offers actionable advice: let data guide strategy, create collaborative organizations where all voices are valued, and embrace the consumer’s point of view.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in aesthetics, consumer trust, and how RealSelf is shaping the future of the industry.

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) Introduction to Minou Clark and Her Career

(1:05) Early Career Journey: From The Maury Show to BuzzFeed

(2:11) Transitioning to RealSelf: Combining Pop Culture and Beauty

(3:05) The Role of Media

(4:59) RealSelf’s Approach: Myth Busting and Education First

(7:33) The Future of RealSelf

(11:17) The Intersection of Aesthetics and Beauty Brands

(15:30) Embracing Pop Culture and Social Media for Engagement

(19:04) The Impact of AI on Aesthetics and Information Access

(25:09) Advice for Business Executives: Data-Driven Decision Making

To learn more about RealSelf, visit their website and social media.

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