MECCA Talks
MECCA
Introducing MECCA Talks, an access all areas pass to the beauty, business, and lifestyle experts we call our community.
- 42 minutes 9 secondsJerrod Blandino Built a Beauty Icon. Now, He’s Doing It Again.
In today’s episode Kate is joined by Polite Society founder, Jerrod Blandino.
If the name sounds familiar, you’d be right – before founding Polite Society with his husband Jeremy Johnson, the two were best known for creating Too Faced in the late ’90s and building it into the beauty juggernaut it is today.
Less than two years ago, the duo launched Polite Society, a brand focused on high-pigment, skincare-forward makeup that proves good skin and glam makeup can go hand-in hand. Polite Society has already had plenty of viral hits – including Polite Pops: a powder blush in stick form, B.I.G. Mouth Lip Plumping Oil Gloss: a hybrid lip product for the ultimate plump and More Than A Pretty Face: a medium coverage foundation that looks and feels weightless on the skin, known for its egg-shaped packaging.
Today, Jerrod joins us from his L.A. home to tell us more about how he got his start in the beauty industry, what it’s like to ‘begin again’, and even shares a little bit about his friendship with Madonna.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
The Biggest Thing In Beauty Has Landed At MECCA: Polite Society
Hay Fever? In Spring? These Mascaras are Groundbreaking
5 Beauty Founders on the Best Gifts Under $100
Products mentioned:
B.I.G. Mouth Lip Plumping Oil Gloss
More Than A Pretty Face Skin-Caring Medium to Full Coverage Foundation
Polite Pops Powder Blush Stick
Greatest Lashes of All Time Mascara
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2 April 2025, 6:01 pm - 41 minutes 1 secondWhy Katie Jane Hughes Is Everyone’s Favourite Makeup Artist
In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by one of the industry's most beloved makeup artists, Katie Jane Hughes.
10 years ago the UK-born artist started an Instagram account to showcase her work as a nail technician. After pivoting from manicures to makeup, Katie began to build a following of loyal beauty enthusiasts, thanks to her approachable tutorials and dedication to educating her audience.
Katie’s playful approach to artistry sees her seamlessly blending bold colours with a glowing complexion, allowing real skin texture to shine through. This earned her the attention of some of the world’s biggest brands, publications and celebrity clientele.
Now, Katie joins us in the MECCA Talks studio to talk about her career so far, the importance of authenticity online and why we should all prime our brushes.
Products mentioned:
Glossier Stretch Balm Concealer
RMS Beauty ReDimension Hydra Powder Blush
Tower28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Tower28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Volumizing Mascara
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
26 March 2025, 6:02 pm - 25 minutes 32 secondsUni’s Alexandra Keating On Why The Best Body Care Is… Blue!
In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by tech-entrepreneur turned beauty founder, Uni’s Alexandra Keating.
After starting not one, but two successful tech startups, Sydney born and LA-based Alexandra Keating (or as she prefers, AK) took a trip to the Great Barrier Reef with her husband Rupert.
Realising how much the reef had changed since her last visit, AK was struck by the idea of a body care brand that both aligned to Australian attitudes around active lifestyles and also harnessed the power of natural ingredients, without negative environmental impact.
Inspired by the Australian coast, these ocean-powered formulas contain a unique marine complex designed to deeply hydrate without ever feeling too heavy.
Now, AK joins us in the MECCA Talks studio to discuss Uni’s unique approach to formulation, packaging and her ultimate body care routine.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
Meet Uni, the Ocean-Powered Brand Changing Up Body Care
The Best Body Moisturisers at MECCA, According To Our Team
It’s New. In January. At MECCA
Products mentioned:
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Ruby Devlin & Kerri Gordon
Editor: Warwick Hughes
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
19 March 2025, 6:05 pm - 36 minutes 59 secondsRae Morris Teaches Us How To Actually Apply Eyeliner
In today’s episode Kate is joined by one of Australia’s most acclaimed makeup artists and founder of her eponymous brand, Rae Morris.
Rae’s work with international brands, countless celebrities and major magazines like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and I.D. has earned her the title of Australian Makeup Artist of the Year – four times.
With a passion for true artistry, right down to the way her tools are created, she travelled the world to design and develop an innovative magnetic brush collection. The award-winning range is handcrafted in Japan and pays homage to the craft of calligraphy.
Now, she joins us in the MECCA Talks studio to share her insider beauty tips, the brush everyone needs, and the non-negotiable products that belong in every beauty bag.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
Over 40? These Makeup Tips Are for You
The Ultimate Eye Makeup Masterclass with Rae Morris
Products mentioned:
Rae Morris Pro-Liner Set 5 Piece
Rae Morris Invisible Mattifier Powder
Rae Morris Makeup Masterclass Book
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5 March 2025, 6:00 pm - 31 minutes 12 secondsFlamingo Estate’s Richard Christiansen On Living a Fuller Life
In today’s episode, Kate is joined in the MECCA Talks studio by Flamingo Estate founder Richard Christiansen.
You may remember their first conversation in 2022, where they spoke about Richard’s journey from growing up in rural NSW to a career in fashion, publishing and advertising in New York – and finally to the COVID-induced ‘pivot’ that led him to turn his L.A. home – Flamingo Estate – into the iconic lifestyle brand it is today.
Now, three years later, Richard is back to discuss his new book titled, Flamingo Estate: The Guide to Becoming Alive, featuring stories from the estate and interviews with the people Richard admires most, including Martha Stewart, Jane Goodall and MECCA founder Jo Horgan.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
WATCH: Behind The Beauty With Flamingo Estate
The Australian Spots That Feel Like Home To Flamingo Estate’s Richard Christiansen
Cult-Status Candles for the Fragrance-Obsessed
Products mentioned:
Flamingo Estate Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick
Flamingo Estate Euphoria Body Wash
Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle
Flamingo Estate Tomato Body Lotion
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
19 February 2025, 6:00 pm - 38 minutesSummer Fridays' Marianna Hewitt On Co-Creating The Internet's Favourite Beauty
In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by Summer Fridays co-founder Marianna Hewitt.
After growing a loyal audience as a beauty blogger, Marianna (alongside co-founder and fellow content creator Lauren Ireland) noticed a gap in the skincare space for a range of efficacious products that combine aesthetically pleasing packaging and consciously curated ingredient lists.
Together, under the name Summer Fridays, the pair launched the Jet Lag Mask which became an instant hit thanks to its multipurpose, nourishing formula and iconic blue packaging.
In the seven years since, the LA-based brand has released countless other viral hits, including the mega-popular Lip Butter Balms, aiming to create beauty bag essentials that look cute and work effortlessly.
Marianna joins us to share the inspirations behind the now-iconic Jet Lag Mask, her personal beauty routine and the story of how she met MECCA Founder Jo Horgan.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
The Beauty Marianna Hewitt Won’t Travel Without
The Latest Status Symbol? Lip Balm
Dewy In-Flight Skin? Unheard Of, Unless You’re Summer Fridays’ Lauren Ireland
Products mentioned:
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum
Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser
Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream
Summer Fridays Shade Drops Mineral Milk
Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturiser
Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint
Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen™ All-In-One Face Oil
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5 February 2025, 6:00 pm - 36 minutes 56 secondsHow Fig.1’s Approach To Retinol Changed The (Skin) Game
In today’s episode Kate is joined by US board-certified dermatologist and Fig.1 co-founder, Dr Courtney Rubin.
In 2021, drawing on her degrees from Yale, Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, as well her experience treating patients in her clinic, Dr Rubin co-founded skincare brand Fig.1 alongside entrepreneurial powerhouse Kimmy Scotti.
With a focus on efficacy, accessibility and reusability, Fig.1’s high-performance, science-backed products – like their easy-to-use retinol system, rich Ceramide Moisturizer and Micellar Oil Cleanser – became must-haves.
Now, she’s here to talk about her journey from dermatologist to brand founder, and to share her top skincare tips.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
Actress Phoebe Tonkin Shares Her Cleansing Secret For Glowing Skin
WATCH: Behind the Beauty with Tower 28
Products mentioned:
Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream No. 1
Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream No. 2
Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream No. 3
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon
Host: Kate Blythe
Producers: Kerri Gordon & Ruby Devlin
Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
18 December 2024, 6:00 pm - 46 minutes 41 secondsAmy Liu Talks Tower 28, The Fastest-Growing Beauty Brand For Sensitive Skin
In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by Tower 28 founder Amy Liu.
Having experienced chronic eczema for most of her adult life, the former beauty executive struggled to find makeup that didn’t worsen her skin sensitivities, often feeling confined to boring, uninspiring products.
Leaning on her wealth of knowledge after 15-plus years of experience in the beauty industry - and her love of LA beach culture - Amy set out to create the brand she wished she always had; a colourful range of makeup with gentle, non-irritating formulas, that felt accessible and inspiring.
Launching in 2019, Tower 28 shook up the beauty world and became one of the fastest growing brands in the US, loved for their viral SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray and effortless makeup essentials like the ShineOn Lip Jelly.
Read more on The MECCA Memo:
WATCH: Behind the Beauty with Tower 28
MECCA HQ’s Most Sensitive Try Tower 28
If You Want To Try Tower 28, Start With These Three Products
Products mentioned:
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Volumizing Mascara
Tower 28 Swipe Serum Concealer
Tower 28 BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation
Host: Kate Blythe
Producer: Kerri Gordon
Assistant Producer: Ruby Devlin
Editor: Warwick Hughes
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4 December 2024, 10:11 pm - 22 minutes 18 secondsHunter Schafer Talks Euphoria’s Return, And Creating an Anime Short with Shiseido
In today’s episode, Kate is chatting with celebrated actor Hunter Schafer, best known for her roles in HBO’s Euphoria, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and in the near future, the epic mini-series that will be Blade Runner 2099.
From her hotel room in Barcelona, Hunter filled us in on her role as Global Brand Ambassador for Shiseido, the process of developing a collection with the brand - as well as an anime short film with Melbourne’s CHOP Studio - her deep love for art, the inside word on Euphoria season three, and her penchant for Melbourne-based creatives (with a hook-up from Troye Sivan).
Products mentioned:
Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate 3.0
Shiseido Limited Edition Daiya Fude Face Duo Brush
Read more on the MECCA Memo:
This is Hunter Schafer’s Favourite Foundation. Ever.
WATCH: Behind the Beauty with Tsu Lange Yor
WATCH: Behind the Beauty with Half Magic
Host: Kate Blythe
Producer: Kerri Gordon
Editors: Warwick Hughes and Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
20 November 2024, 6:00 pm - 31 minutes 53 secondsAriel Tejada Changed How We Do Makeup Forever
In today’s episode, Kate is joined by globally recognised makeup artist and Morphe collaborator, Ariel Tejada – or as he’s known by beauty lovers around the world, @makeupbyariel.
In the mid-2010s, the self-taught artist started sharing his work on Instagram, quickly capturing the attention of the beauty world with his unique approach to soft glam. Kylie Jenner was fast to slide into his Instagram DMs, and it was this correspondence changed everything. The two became fast friends, working together consistently over the past decade, with the artist responsible for some of Kylie’s most iconic beauty looks.
Today, Ariel is one of the most sought-after creatives in the industry, painting the faces of A-listers like Kim Kardashian, Gwen Stefani and Rosalía.
Fast forward a few years, and Ariel partnered with Morphe to develop, test and perfect a brush collection that, since its release in 2021, has become an essential part of any beauty lover's kit.
Now, he’s here to talk to MECCA about all things Morphe and, of course, makeup!
Products mentioned:
Morphe X Ariel Signature Look 12-Piece Face & Eye Brush Set
Morphe x Ariel Signature 5-Piece Face Brush Set
Morphe X Ariel Signature Eyes 8-Piece Eye Brush Set
Host: Kate Blythe
Producer: Kerri Gordon
Assistant Producer: Ruby Devlin
Editor: Warwick Hughes
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6 November 2024, 6:00 pm - 24 minutes 21 secondsThe Mini: Our Favourite SPFs And The Great Glitter Eye Debate
This week, Tara and Kerri discuss the birthday makeup trend, share their thoughts on the newest SPF launches and debate whether glitter or smoky eyes are the easiest look. Plus, they share what International Day of the Girl (coming up on Friday 11 October!) means to them.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Sunscreen is only one form of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply as directed.
The Mini Must-Haves:
What we're obsessed with:
Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Concealer
RMS beauty Sun Coverup Super Tint SPF 50
MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum
What we've rediscovered:
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream
MECCA MAX Zoom Shadow Stick Matte in 'Taupe'
What's on our wishlist:
TSU LANGE YOR Sala Eau de Parfum
Glossier Boy Brow Volumizing Eyebrow Gel-Pomade
Products Mentioned:
Violette_FR Yeux Paint Matte in 'Nuage de Lilas'
Violette_FR Bisou Balm in 'Amour Fou'
MECCA COSMETICA In A Good Light Illuminating Drops SPF30
Naked Sundays Beautyscreen SPF 50 Foundation Tint
Read more on the MECCA MEMO:
MECCA’s Founder Jo Horgan, on International Day of the Girl
The Best Birthday Gifts From MECCA
Hosts: Tara Lamont-Djite & Kerri Gordon
Producer & Editor: Ruby Devlin
Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).
MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2 October 2024, 7:00 pm - More Episodes? Get the App