What does it take to build a successful and fulfilling business in the competitive aesthetics industry? In this episode of Conversations and Aesthetics, I sit down with Fiona Macaskill, a seasoned business coach specialising in the aesthetics sector, to explore her journey from television to upholstery and eventually to coaching in the beauty industry. Fiona’s unique path illustrates the power of adaptability and the importance of strategic insight for entrepreneurs looking to thrive in this fast-paced field.

We explore Fiona’s experiences, discussing her transition from the upholstery industry to working with Skin Viva and how those early encounters shaped her coaching approach. Fiona shares valuable advice on overcoming feelings of stagnation and fear, emphasising the importance of identifying your core purpose—your ‘why’—and creating structured plans for consistent growth. We also explore the significance of marketing, a crucial skill often overlooked in aesthetics, and how practitioners can better communicate their unique selling points to attract clients and drive business growth.

Through inspiring success stories, we see how tailored coaching can lead to remarkable transformations. Fiona also looks ahead to the evolving trends in the aesthetics industry, such as the shift towards natural, rejuvenate treatments, and how professionals can adapt to meet these changing consumer demands.

Conversations in Aesthetics is produced by Urban Podcasts.

How do you navigate the often-overwhelming landscape of aesthetic education and choose the right path for your career? In this episode of Conversations and Aesthetics, Lorna sitsdown with Dr. Tristan Mehta, founder and CEO of Harley Academy, to discuss the crucial role education plays in shaping the future of aesthetic medicine.

Tristan shares his journey of founding one of the UK’s leading aesthetic training institutions, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. He provides insights into what makes effective training, emphasising the importance of high-quality education, practical experience, and adherence to industry standards. Our conversation delves into the significant legislative developments, including the 2012 Health Education England Report, which reshaped the field, pushing for higher qualifications and better patient safety.

We also explore the ethical considerations around who should be performing aesthetic procedures and the ongoing debate for stronger regulation. Dr. Mehta stresses the need for hands-on training and guidance from reputable institutions, offering advice for anyone considering a career in aesthetics, from understanding the qualifications to embracing continuous learning in an ever-evolving industry.

Conversations in Aesthetics is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What drives a top surgeon to trade the high-paced American medical world for a fresh start in the UK? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ash Soni, a dual-trained aesthetic doctor and plastic surgeon, who takes us behind the scenes of his incredible journey from Imperial College London to elite US institutions like Cornell and Johns Hopkins.

Dr. Soni shares his insights on the intense US training culture, burnout, and the pivotal moment that led him back to the UK. He opens up about building his own aesthetic practice from the ground up during the pandemic, redefining personal branding, and the surprising challenges of starting fresh.

From pitching his vision like a 'Dragon’s Den' contender to handling every bit of his own social media, Dr. Soni’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and a passion for patient care.

Conversations in Aesthetics is produced by Urban Podcasts.