The ABIC Podcast

In this episode of the ABIC Podcast, we’re joined by Joanie Gonella, Certified Professional Electrologist, educator, and co-founder of the Electrology Education Coalition, to explore the role education plays in shaping competent, ethical and confident electrology practitioners.

With over two decades of clinical and teaching experience, Joanie shares why strong foundational training is critical, how gaps in early education can surface later in practice, and why ongoing learning — including the willingness to unlearn outdated methods — is essential as technology and client expectations evolve.

This conversation examines education not as a one-time qualification, but as a long-term commitment that directly impacts treatment outcomes, professional judgement and career sustainability.

This episode is brought to you by Electrology Education Coalition

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

Today, we’re diving into a topic that affects every clinic, salon, and skincare professional: skin misinformation — and how education can rebuild trust between the public and our industry.

Joining us are two passionate educators who are helping Australians cut through the noise with clear, science-based skin guidance: Tracey Mead, Founder of Skin & Health Solutions Education, and Bianca Robertson, Dermal Therapist and Clinical Educator.

Together, they’ve made it their mission to make skin knowledge accessible not only to professionals, but also to everyday Australians — parents, teens, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by mixed messages online.

If you’re a clinic owner, dermal therapist, beauty therapist, or skincare professional — this is your reminder that education is one of the most powerful tools you have.

To learn more, visit skinandhealtheducation.com.au or connect with Tracey and Bianca.

This episode is brought to you by the Aesthetic & Beauty Industry Council (ABIC)

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

What if the future of skin rejuvenation isn’t more heat, more trauma, or more downtime, but a return to nature’s own regenerative blueprint?

In this groundbreaking episode of the ABIC podcast, host Stefanie Milla is joined by Kamil Szymanski, a globally respected educator and Aesthetic Practitioner from Ireland to explore Spongilla spicules—a bio-intelligent skin remodelling treatment that’s changing how we think about treating the skin.

Together, they unpack the science behind this ancient aquatic ingredient and its advanced clinical application in modern aesthetics. But this conversation goes far beyond one treatment. We explore the overuse of ablative and heat-based technologies, particularly for ageing, menopausal and barrier-compromised skin. We explore the biological impact of aggressive treatments, the hormonal realities of mature skin, and the need to expand our treatment toolbox with innovations that work with the skin, not against it.

Discover how SQT’s natural spicules stimulate advanced dermal rejuvenation without heat, excessive trauma or downtime, and how this shift signals a broader industry movement toward holistic, sustainable skin health.

If you’re a clinic, salon, or spa owner ready to innovate your treatment menu, elevate your results, and meet the evolving needs of today’s skin-savvy clients, this episode will reshape your perspective, and your protocols.

This episode is brought to you by SQT Bio-Microneedling Australia

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

We’re told to focus on client experience, but the world’s top brands are focusing on client psychology.

In this elevated and thought provoking episode, our host ABIC CEO, Stef Milla sits down with Emma Winen and Chloe Wilson from Shortcuts Australia to explore a radical shift: what if your software isn’t just a tool, it’s part of your brand?

In an era where luxury is redefined by ease, intelligence, and emotional resonance, the most successful clinics aren’t run like clinics at all, they’re run like consumer brands.

You’ll uncover how behavioural science, neuro-marketing, and intuitive technology are reshaping the client journey, and how your tech stack is silently influencing trust, prestige, loyalty, and even perceived clinical outcomes.

Expect insights, science-backed strategy, and disruptive thinking that will leave you questioning everything from your online booking system to your post-treatment follow-up.

If you’re ready to shift from being a service provider to becoming an unforgettable brand, this is the episode for you.

This episode is brought to you by Shortcuts Australia

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

Welcome to the ABIC Podcast, where we bring you the conversations that shape the future of our industry. Today’s episode is all about voice, your voice and the authentic human voice and why it’s the most powerful tool you have in an era where artificial intelligence is everywhere.

Here’s the truth: AI can write faster, but it can’t write you. It can’t capture the quirks, the soul, the lived perspective that makes words move people. And while every brand has a voice, not every brand knows how to use it. That’s where a professional copywriter comes in, someone who can shape the authentic human voice of your brand into words that build trust, spark emotion, and make you unforgettable.

To explore this, I’m joined by Rachel Medlock, a professional copywriter in the beauty and aesthetic industry whose work is instantly recognisable for its sass, originality and substance. Together we’ll unpack why the authentic human voice, crafted by a professional, is the future, how you can protect and amplify it, and the science behind why humans still crave words written by humans.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make your brand stand out in the age of AI, this conversation will show you why your voice, and your authentic human voice in the hands of a skilled copywriter, is your greatest competitive edge.

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

In today’s episode, we’re lifting the lid on one of the most misunderstood and underrepresented modalities in our industry, electrolysis.

While laser and IPL dominate headlines and clinic menus, electrolysis remains the only truly permanent hair removal method. So why has it been left behind?

We're joined by Kelly Dermody from Dermaskin Training, a passionate educator, practitioner and compliance expert with over 30 years of experience across clinical aesthetics, dermal therapies, and advanced skin education.

Kelly’s also a national beauty trainer, clinic owner, and the founder of Mine Minerals, a cosmeceutical skincare and mineral makeup line developed directly from her work with real client skin.

We explore how Australia’s education and regulatory systems are failing therapists when it comes to advanced modalities, why electrolysis matters now more than ever, and how Kelly is helping to bridge the gap between training, compliance and ethical, evidence-based care.

If you’ve ever felt confused, underprepared, or overwhelmed by qualifications, standards or pathways for advanced treatments — this one is for you.

This episode is brought to you by Dermaskin Training

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

Today we’re exploring one of the most overlooked yet powerful forces behind facial ageing - the silent architects that shape how we look as the years go by: our bones, fat pads and hormones.

Joining us is Dr. David Kosenko, Head of Medical and Clinical Training for Dermocosmètica and President of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australasia.

Together, we’ll unpack how menopause accelerates change, why bone and fat matter as much as skin, and how new regenerative treatments such as Profhilo Classic, Profhilo Structura, and Emepelle are reshaping the way we think about prevention and long-term care.

If you’re a practitioner who wants to elevate your understanding of ageing, recognise the earliest signs of structural depletion, and discover how to move beyond filling space to restoring the environment, this conversation will give you fresh insights and practical strategies you can take straight back into clinic.

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

What if the secret to success isn’t just hard work—but rewiring your brain to think differently?

Today, we dive deep into the science of resilience, high performance, and self-belief with Nicola Le Lievre—an award-winning clinic owner, PR powerhouse, and co-author of Back Yourself.”

We’re about to break down the neuroscience of self-doubt, how to train your mind for success, and the psychological strategies used by elite performers. This episode isn’t just inspiration—it’s science-backed transformation.

This episode is brought to you by Circadia Australia

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

Time. Purpose. Performance.

In an industry that never stops moving, how do we slow down enough to lead with clarity, work with intention, and build success that actually feels sustainable?

In this episode of the ABIC Podcast, we’re exploring how aesthetic professionals can reclaim their time, redefine what success really means, and lead from a place of purpose—not pressure. We’ll unpack evidence-based strategies, emotional intelligence, and systems that support human-centred growth—for yourself, your team, and your business.

Joining us is the powerhouse Sherri Ponisi—a passionate industry leader with over 20 years in hair and beauty, wellness, education, and tech. From behind the chair to the frontlines of innovation, Sherri knows what it takes to streamline the chaos and reconnect with what matters most.

We’re also taking a look at how Timely isn’t just software—it’s a smart, silent business partner that helps you make space for the things that move the needle: clarity, creativity, and meaningful connection.

If you're ready to shift from hustle to harmony, this one’s for you.

This episode is brought to you by Timely

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil

In a results-driven industry, what happens when we pause and ask: why are we really doing this?

In this episode of the ABIC podcast, Stefanie Milla is joined by Renée Altakrity distributor and educator behind SQT Spongilla Therapy, to explore how a purpose-led approach can create powerful transformation, not only for clients, but for teams, businesses, and brands.

Together they unpack how intentionality, integrity, and inclusivity can become the foundation of a clinic’s culture, treatment design, and commercial success. This conversation is for any clinic or salon owner, skin therapist, or brand leader ready to reconnect with their deeper mission, and use it as a powerful advantage in a noisy market.

Whether you’re rebuilding after burnout or simply ready to redefine what success means to you, this episode offers reflection, inspiration, and tangible steps to create a business that matters.

This episode is brought to you by SQT Bio-Microneedling Australia

The ABIC Podcast is an independent podcast that operates with the support of our listeners (that’s you!) So if you would like to support the show, we would very much appreciate that. Hit ‘subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘follow’ on Spotify, and leave a review if you’re feeling especially generous and please follow us @aestheticbeautycouncil