Inside Aesthetics

Episode 338 hosts Chloe McGrath (Founder & Director of The Aesthetic Collective from Sydney, Australia)⁠ In this episode we explore how cosmetic clinics should market and brand themselves in 2026. Chloe shares her background in aesthetics and explains why her agency works exclusively within the sector, prioritising compliance and close alignment with the regulators. We discuss common misconceptions including the belief that clinical skills alone can build a successful clinic and the serious risk of regulatory breaches when using a non-aesthetic marketing agency. Our conversation covers key growth drivers including the limitations of word-of-mouth referrals, the importance of multiple patient touchpoints before booking, and the challenge of accurately tracking attribution. We on practical, capacity-based marketing strategies for solo injectors versus scaling clinics, highlighting Meta ads as a cost-effective option when geographically and demographically targeted. 00:00 Introduction 04:15

Episode 337 hosts Dr Abishek Settipalli (aka 'Dr Abs', Dentist from London, UK) & Dr Ben Coyle (General Practitioner from Leicester, UK)  Abs and Ben join us in Chapter 12 of our Masterclass series of episodes. Here we host global experts with significant experience to teach us about fillers, bio-stimulators, bio-remodellers, polynucleotides, exosomes and other injectable products. (For toxin insights, check out our other mini-series, 'The Tox Talks') In Chapter 12 we discuss Sunekos, a new product in Australia and distributed by Xytide. Our discussion begins with a discussion about regenerative aesthetics and what this term really means. We then cover the science of the skin and what happens when we age. Importantly we get a better understanding about the key building blocks of the skin including the various types of collagen, elastin and fibronectin. Sunekos is marketed as a 'bioregenerator' and we underpack what is it, how it works, what patients are suitable, how it's used in clinical practice and muc

Episode 336 showcases our hosts Dr Jake Sloane & David Segal In this episode we go through our list of strategies and ideas for clinics to thrive and grow in 2026. We discuss the concept of examining and diagnosing your 'financial health' with a detailed explanation of profit margins, balance sheets and the importance of analyzing your costs vs prices.  We also cover team management, tips to improve patient retention, rebooking strategies as well as the importance of committing to a social media and marketing strategy. 00:00 Introduction 00:41 Starting the New Year: Business Reflections 02:28 Analysing Business Performance 05:07 Understanding Financial Reports 11:02 Managing Stock and Profit Margins 33:36 Skincare and Retail Strategies 39:39 Creating Your Own White Label Brand 40:45 Memberships and Subscriptions 45:45 Income Streams: Training and Mentorship 50:41 Managing Teams and Staff Performance 56:37 Patient Retention and Rebooking Strategies 01:11:47 Marketing and Social Media Strategies 01:17:09 Co

Episode 335 showcases our hosts Dr Jake Sloane & David Segal. In our 'What's trending in Aesthetics?' episodes we discuss popular topics doing the rounds on social media, issues being debated in injector forums or items showcased on the news. We'll cover controversies, big stories and themes that have got injectors and our industry talking.

 In Chapter 16 we delve into the key overall trends that we predict will influence the year ahead. We discuss: The shift towards 'slow ageing' (long term planning and smaller but more frequent treatments)  The rise of bio-stimulators vs traditional hyaluronic acid fillers - and whether this trend will balance itself out or not The rationalisation of devices in clinics - multiplatform devices vs multiple machines The professionalisation of aesthetics - getting serious about business and regulations The increasing sophistication of patients - how they are arming themselves with knowledge to pick and choose only the best injectors We also share our HUGE news and the im

Episode 334 hosts Dr Kourosh Tavakoli (Plastic Surgeon from Sydney, Australia) In this episode we discuss the latest trends and innovations in plastic surgery. We cover the rising popularity of GLP-1 weight loss drugs and the significant impact they are having on surgical trends and procedures. We then do a deep dive into the current preferences in breast aesthetics and the continuing evolution in techniques including as implant technology, lipo filling and the use of mesh for 'internal bra' support. We also cover the rare complications of breast implants known colloquially as 'breast implant illness' and 'breast implant associated cancer'. Our conversation also touches on the challenges faced by Australian surgeons given the stringent marketing regulation changes and the pros and cons of patient education through social media.  00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:40 Holiday Reflections and Introducing Dr Kourosh Tavakoli 02:29 Trends in Cosmetic Surgery 02:53 Impact of GLP-1 Agonists on Cosmetic Proce

Episode 333 hosts Mike Clague (Nurse Injector from Melbourne, Australia) In 'The Tox Talks' episodes we feature expert injectors who have significant experience in using botulinum toxins. These episodes explore our guests experiences using particular brands, the evolution of their injecting techniques and we get special insights into the subtle nuances of getting the best out of toxins. In chapter 11 we talk about Relfydess, a new Botulinum Toxin A manufactured by Galderma. We first re-introduce Mike (previously on episode 276) and his clinical background. We then cover his involvement in the pre-launch trials using Relfydess and his clinical experience with the product. We covers the efficacy and onset of Relfydess compared to other toxins, its performance in various facial areas, and discuss practical tips for injectors.  00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:40 Welcome to Chapter 11: The Tox Talks 00:53 Introducing Mike Clague and Relfydess Toxin 01:28 Mike's Background and Experience 03:31 Discussion

Episode 332 hosts Dr Steven Sorr (Naturopathic Doctor from Arizona, USA) Steven joins us in the 31st chapter of our series called 'The Injector Diaries'. These episodes feature in depth conversations, stories and experiences from injectors around the globe. Each injector brings their own unique take on things and we showcase every level of type of injector, from newbies to masters. We'll explore how and why they chose to inject, why they favour using certain products, look under the hoods of their clinics and aim to inspire our injector listeners. 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet Dr. Steven: Integrating Health and Aesthetics 01:43 Understanding Naturopathic Medicine 03:52 Patient Approach and Treatment Philosophy 11:02 Challenges and Education in Modern Medicine 17:41 The Importance of Lifestyle and Preventative Care 20:14 Discussing Education and Curiosity 20:37 Integrating Aesthetics and Wellness 20:57 Exploring Methylation and Genetics 22:41 Debunking Misinformation in Health 25:19 Epigenetics and Environmen

Episode 331 hosts Dr Bita Farrell (Anaesthesiologist from California, USA) & Dr Roni Munk (Dermatologist from Montreal, Canada) Back in September 2025 Dr Jake and David were attendance as speakers at the Canadian Aesthetic Expo. They took the opportunity to record with two other leading KOL speakers; Bita (previously on Episode 283) & Roni. We first get an understanding of our guests own patient demographics and their recent experiences of dealing with filler anxiety expressed by their patients. We explore the nuances of an effective patient consultations and cover the aspects of winning trust, education and the role of personalised consultations. We then discuss the growing prominence of regenerative medicine including insights into exosomes, PRP, PDGF and effective combination therapies. Our guests share their own experiences, philosophies, emphasize a patient-centric approach and the role of lifelong learning to achieve success. 00:00 Introduction  01:03 Meet the Guests: Dr Bita Farrell and Dr Roni

Episode 330 hosts Dr Felix Bertram (Dermatologist from Zurich, Switzerland) Felix is a successful Dermatologist, serial entrepreneur and has been on the podcast several times to share his business insights. But in this episode we discuss something very different - a very real story about the serious challenges of trying to balance numerous multi-million dollar businesses and the consequences of impending burnout. We talk about Felix's health scare after taking a random biological age test and how he changed everything to overcome this. Our conversation highlights how to recognise when work and life are out of balance and what you might put into place to combat it. 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Live from the Canadian Aesthetics Expo 01:09 Special guest: Dr. Felix Bertram 01:49 Felix's Journey: From Dermatology to Entrepreneurship 03:42 The Wake-Up Call: Biological Age Test 07:20 Balancing Health, Relationships, and Business 12:08 Advice for Aspiring Injectors and Business Owners 21:25 Felix's Health Transformation

Episode 329 hosts Dr Ferial Fanian (Dermatologist from Paris, France) In our 'Masterclass Series' we host global experts to teach us about fillers, bio-stimulators, bio-remodellers, polynucleotides, exosomes and other products. (For toxin insights, check out our other mini-series, 'The Tox Talks') In Chapter 11 we go on a deep dive into the science of 'biostimulation' . With collagen stimulation now a seemingly generic term used for many new products launched, we aim to differentiate how these products can be classified and how they actually biostimulate. We also cover some basics of daily skincare, skin analysis, skin hydration and the history of NCTF (New Cellular Treatment Factor 135 HA). 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Special Guest: Dr Ferial Fanian 01:06 Event Experience and Masterclass Topic 01:52 Dr Ferial's Background and Expertise 02:55 Role with Filmed and Clinical Practice 05:56 Understanding Biostimulation 08:44 Categories of Biostimulation Products 18:10 Skin Health and Analysis 25:03 Patient C

Episode 328 hosts Alex Thiersch (Attorney & CEO of AMSPA). In this extra mid-week podcast episode, Alex discusses the evolution of the med spa industry in the United States, the compliance and regulatory challenges practitioners face, and the importance of business acumen. The conversation also delves into the role of AMSPA in providing resources, education, and community support to med spa owners and practitioners. They touch on the issues of industry self-regulation, advocacy efforts, and the future prospects of the medical aesthetics field. Additionally, Alex highlights the annual Medical Spa Show in Las Vegas, a significant event offering extensive training, networking, and industry insights. 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Welcoming the Guest: Alex Thiersch 00:57 Alex Thiersch Background and Journey into Aesthetics 02:13 Challenges and Growth in the Med Spa Industry 04:46 Legal and Compliance Issues in Med Spas 13:13 AMSPA's Evolution and National Expansion 16:15 Current Trends and Future Outlook 22:09 Busi

Episode 327 showcases our hosts Dr Jake Sloane & David Segal. In our 'What's trending in Aesthetics?' episodes we discuss popular topics doing the rounds on social media, issues being debated in injector forums or items showcased on the news. We'll cover controversies, big stories and themes that have got injectors and our industry talking. In Chapter 15 our hosts Dr Jake and David explore three key trends: 1) The controversial use of artificial intelligence in aesthetic advertising & clinical practice 2) Laser Clinics hiring PwC to sell their United Kingdom and North American operations - and what this means for Laser Clinics Australia and other large chain clinic models. 3) The recent FDA warning about the risks associated with radio-frequency microneedling 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Casual Catch-Up and Episode Preview 01:05 AI in Aesthetic Advertising 02:40 Ethical Concerns and Practical Uses of AI 17:51 Financial Troubles of Laser Clinics Australia 22:21 Clinical Photography System Offer 23:18 Add

Episode 326 hosts Sydney Slubik (Registered Nurse from Edmonton, Canada & the winner of our IA X ICCE Competition) Sydney joins us in the 30th chapter of our series called 'The Injector Diaries'. These episodes feature in depth conversations, stories and experiences from injectors around the globe. Each injector brings their own unique take on things and we showcase every level of type of injector, from newbies to masters. We'll explore how and why they chose to inject, why they favour using certain products, look under the hoods of their clinics and aim to inspire our injector listeners. 00:00 Introduction  00:40 Live from ICCE Conference 01:12 Special Guest: Sydney Slubik 01:42 Sydney's Journey into Aesthetics 03:39 Training and Development in Aesthetics 05:33 Challenges and Growth as an Injector 12:49 Experiences at ICCE Conference  17:42 Starting the Business Journey 18:24 Creating a Supportive Community 19:18 Choosing Independence Over Joining a Clinic 20:06 Future Plans for Business Growth 21:14 Ch

Episode 325 hosts Dr Steven Land (Cosmetic Physician from Newcastle, UK) In our 'Masterclass Series' we host global experts to teach us about fillers, bio-stimulators, bio-remodellers, polynucleotides, exosomes and other products. (For toxin insights, check out our other mini-series, 'The Tox Talks') In Chapter 10 we explore the range of fillers made by Neauvia. Steven shares his experiences and clinical insights about these products, why he uses the, and how they are unique compared to other HA fillers.  00:00 Introduction 01:31 Special Guest: Dr. Steven Land 02:25 Masterclass Series: Neauvia Fillers 02:35 Dr. Steven Land's Background 03:14 Exploring the Neauvia Filler Range 04:07 The Science Behind Neauvia Fillers 10:55 PEG Technology and Its Benefits 15:34 Practical Insights and Experiences 20:13 Understanding Filler Performance 30:56 Neauvia Filler Range Overview 33:16 Exploring Unique Uses of Injectables 34:02 Introducing Neauvia Stimulate 34:36 Factory-Made vs. Homebrew Injectables 35:04 Calcium Hydroxy

Episode 324 is an extra mid-week podcast showcasing our live podcast at the Canadian Aesthetic Expo!  Dr Jake & David were invited to the event by the Canadian Aesthetic Medical Association. In addition doing various talks and recorded podcasts, they held this live podcast on stage with three of the event's KOL speakers: Dr Kian Karimi (Plastic Surgeon from Los Angeles, USA) Dr Zack Ally (Cosmetic Physician from London, UK) Amy Lynn (Aesthetic Nurse Specialist, Philidelphia, USA) In this 30 minute session our hosts asked our guests a series of challenging questions about ethics, training standards, the impact of social media, over-filled colleagues and more. 00:00 Introduction  00:45 Live from the Canadian Aesthetics Expo 01:17 Meet the Guests: Dr Kian Karimi, Dr Zack Ally, Amy Lynn 03:01 Qualifications and Training in Aesthetics 06:07 Ethics and Integrity in Aesthetic Practices 09:29 The Natural Look and Overfilled Syndrome 14:39 Community and Support for Injectors 15:36 Social Media Influence and Indu

Episode 323 hosts Kelly George (Registered Nurse from Tamworth, Australia) In 'The Business of Injecting' episodes we host injectors and clinic owners to discuss all aspects of the business side of their clinic. We analyse their financial struggles and challenges, difficult decisions, friction points, staffing, hiring, firing and other topics relevant for aesthetic business owners. In Chapter 21 we discuss Kelly's recent expansion to open her second clinic. (We discussed her first clinic and background in Episode 214 of the Business of Injecting - Chapter 8) We discuss how she manages and trains her staff, the importance of patient relationships, why she opened a new clinic and the challenges of staying compliant amidst the changing regulations in Australia.  Kelly shares her insights on leveraging social media for business growth and the critical role of patient feedback in maintaining high standards of care. We end on why she also changed to a new compliance and prescribing service (InstantCosmetics) and ho

Episode 322 hosts Dr Mustafa Narwan (Plastic Surgeon from Germany & UAE) This is the fifth of several episodes recorded at ICCE (International Cosmetic Congress and Exhibition) in Cairo, Egypt. Dr Jake and David were honoured to be invited to the event in September 2025 and in doing so, IA became the first podcast in the world to be resident at an aesthetic conference.  In Chapter 5 of these episodes we explore the concepts of biohacking and integrating a holistic approach to patients. Mustafa shares his insights on combining different treatments to cater to individual patient needs, the significance of thorough consultations, and the role of lifestyle modifications like exercise, diet, and sleep in preparing for and recovering from surgery.  00:00 Introduction 00:17 Podcast Purpose and Disclaimer  01:03 Introducing Dr. Mustafa Narwan 01:45 Mustafa's Background and Clinics 02:27 Holistic Medicine Explained 05:34 Consultation Process and Patient Care 11:30 The Importance of Biohacking 13:32 Daily Health Ro

Episode 321 hosts Dr Rami Abadi (Dermatologist from Lebanon) This is the seventh chapter of our miniseries, 'The Beauty Of The World'. (Please also listen to episodes 102, 107, 109, 113, 118 and 224 for our other episodes and regions of the world)  In these episodes we host globally-renowned key opinion leaders to discuss their own regions beauty standards, aesthetic trends and the injectable market in their part of the world. We'll aim to understand what people find attractive, what influences this and celebrate the similarities and amazing differences amongst peoples faces and skin tones. Rami is a globally-renowned dermatologist who consults in several countries across the Middle East. We comparing Western and Middle Eastern beauty standards, and the impact of culture and social media on aesthetic preferences. Rami shares his experiences treating diverse patient demographics across Lebanon, Qatar, Dubai and even in the Ivory Coast.  00:00 Introduction  01:04 Meet Dr. Rami Abadi 02:44 Understanding Regional

Episode 320 hosts Dr Rami Haidar (Maxillofacial Surgeon from UAE)  Rami joins us in the 29th chapter of our series called 'The Injector Diaries'. These episodes feature in depth conversations, stories and experiences from injectors around the globe. Each injector brings their own unique take on things and we showcase every level of type of injector, from newbies to masters. We'll explore how and why they chose to inject, why they favour using certain products, look under the hoods of their clinics and aim to inspire our injector listeners. 00:00 Introduction 00:47 Welcome to the ICCE Conference 01:16 Meet Dr. Rami Haidar 01:42 Dr. Rami's Background and Journey 04:29 Life and Practice in Dubai 05:17 The Importance of Surgical Training in Aesthetics 07:03 The Evolution of Aesthetic Training 12:48 Becoming a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) 15:38 The Patient Journey and Consultation Process 19:11 Clinic Overview and Multidisciplinary Approach 19:57 Retention Rates and Challenges in Dubai 20:12 Stocking and Choosing Toxi

Episode 319 hosts Dr Ishaan Ramkisson (Dermatologist from South Africa). This is the second of several episodes recorded at ICCE (International Cosmetic Congress and Exhibition) in Cairo, Egypt. Dr Jake and David were honoured to be invited to the event in September 2025 and in doing so, IA became the first podcast in the world to be resident at an aesthetic conference.  In Chapter 2 of these episodes we explore what a holistic approach to aesthetic treatments means in practice and emphasis the rile of individualised treatment planning. We discuss some of the aesthetic considerations for patients using GLP-1 medications, insights into gender-specific treatments, cultural considerations when talking to patients, and the importance of blending injectables with other treatments for the best results. 00:00 Introduction 01:51 Interview with Dr Ishaan Ramkisson 02:55 Discussing Holistic and Natural Treatments 04:32 The Future of Regenerative Aesthetics 06:10 Understanding Patient Demographics and Preferences 09:13