419: From Romania to Hollywood: Anastasia Soare on Beauty, Perseverance & A Billion Dollar Brand Based on a Single Idea

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Felice Chan, a Chinese medicine doctor who bridges Eastern and Western approaches to healing after years studying allopathic medicine including shadowing an oncology neurosurgeon and working at Boston Children’s Hospital. We dive into the fascinating contrasts between healthcare in Hong Kong and the U.S., the 5,000-year misunderstanding around acupuncture, and how our gut health connects to anxiety, depression, and even our skin. Dr. Chan shares practical, science-backed tips to reduce bloating, support digestion, curb sugar cravings, and shift your mindset around food—plus her honest takes on popular health trends like intermittent fasting and cold plunging. We also get into cosmetic acupuncture, what not to do on your period, how emotions manifest physically, and how to “eat your skincare” by nourishing your blood and creating a vibrant, resilient body from the inside out.This episode is brought to you by:Get 20% off your order at Bakedbymelissa.com/BLONDE.Go to ProLonLife.com/BLONDE for 15% off plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-day program.Visit Hungryroot.com/blonde and use code blonde for 40% off your first box.Go to fromourplace.com/BLONDE and use code BLONDE for 10% off sitewide.Get $10 off your first month’s subscription and enjoy free shipping when you visit Nutrafol.com and use promo code BLONDE.Go to Quince.com/blonde for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Anastasia is an entrepreneur (founder of Anastasia Beverly Hills) and author of Raising Brows: My Story of Building a Billion Dollar Beauty Empire. From watching Oprah in Romania without speaking a word of English to eventually calling her a friend—and doing her brows—Anastasia Soare’s story is the definition of the American dream. In this episode, we go deep into how she created an entire beauty category, built a global brand from scratch, and what she learned along the way. Anastasia shares how she went from working in a Melrose Place salon to shaping the faces of icons like Cindy Crawford, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Naomi Campbell, and the mindset that helped her persevere through countless “no’s.” We also talk about the biggest misconceptions about entrepreneurship, how to make calculated mistakes, and the habits that keep her grounded. Plus, she reveals what’s really in her beauty bag, her go-to skincare and makeup hacks, and her honest thoughts on microblading.This episode is brought to you by:Go to BellamiHair.com and use code WELL to get 25% off your first clip-in order and book a free consultation. Get an extra $100 site credit when you sell for the first time on TheRealReal.com/well.Visit everydaydose.com/WELL or enter code WELL at checkout to get 45% off your first order.Go to neurogum.com and use promo code WELL to get 20% off your first order. Use promo code blonde for 35% off your first subscription order at livemomentous.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Ryan Neinstein is one of the most sought-after plastic surgeons in the world, known for his meticulous artistry, innovative techniques, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this high-energy conversation, we dive into everything from how he screens patients for surgical readiness to the psychology of enhancement versus transformation. Dr. Neinstein breaks down the evolution of the “Birkin of Bodies,” the nuances of mommy makeovers, and how menopause reshapes the body (and what can actually be done about it). We also discuss GLP-1’s impact on surgical outcomes, the truth about minimally invasive techniques and why trends in cosmetic surgery can be dangerous. Plus, he shares his approach to creating “ballerina arms,” the difference between removing fat and tightening skin, and the most gratifying surgeries of his career.Dr. Neinstein was ranked #1 Tummy Tuck Surgeon in America by his peers, follow him on Instagram @drneinstein to learn more about his practice. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Neuroscientist and longevity expert Dr. Kay Linker joins me to break down the science of staying young—inside and out. We dive deep into how the brain ages (and how to slow it down), the neuroscience behind exercise, and why Zone 2 training is a game-changer for cognitive health. Dr. Linker explains how your brain detoxes itself, how to avoid glucose spikes and crashes, and what fasting really does for your mind. We also talk hormones, exosomes, and the surprising link between how you look and how you feel. From optimizing nutrition and reducing dementia risk to her sauna and cold plunge routine for longevity, this episode is packed with cutting-edge insight. Plus, we cover the best next-gen skincare, the three pillars for lasting brain health, and which “healthy” trends to skip altogether.This episode is brought to you by YNAB, ProLon, Ritual, LMNT, Momentous, Puori, and Fatty15.Visit www.ynab.com/well to claim an exclusive three-month free trial, with no credit card required.Go to ProLonLife.com/BLONDE for 15% off plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-day program.Visit ritual.com/BLONDE for 25% off your first month. Try LMNT and get a free sample pack when you go to DrinkLMNT.com/WELL.Use promo code blonde for 35% off your first subscription order at livemomentous.com. Use promo code BLONDE at Puori.com/BLONDE for 20% off.Visit fatty15.com/WELL and use code WELL at checkout for an additional 15% off their Starter Kit.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jen Atkin is a celebrity hairstylist, founder of the brands OUAI and Mane, co-founder of Highlight Artists, author and BELLAMI Global Brand Ambassador. She joins me for a candid conversation on all things hair, hustling to build a successful career and hard-earned wisdom. Jen opens up about how loss has shaped her life and business, why work ethic and authenticity matter more than ever and how the Kardashians helped put her on the map after years of prioritizing clients over her own life. We get into learning to say no, overcoming perfectionism after growing up in a Mormon household, surviving the LA fires and the beauty hacks she swears by. She also shares the most flattering cuts for every face shape, the truth about extensions, the hair myths she wants us to stop believing and so much more.Go to BellamiHair.com and use code WELL to get 25% off your first clip-in order and book a free consultation.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this solo, I’m catching you up on everything: walking through hard things and what it actually feels like when life finally turns around. I talk about staying friends with an ex (yes, it’s possible), how my lifestyle now compares to when I was married, and the biggest perspective shifts I’ve had post-divorce. I also get into finding joy in the small stuff, how to want what you already have, and my honest thoughts on kids now that I’m in a happy, long(ish) relationship. For a little beauty chat, I discuss my current in-office treatments, easy chest hacks, what I wish I did earlier, and the top five skincare and makeup products I can’t live without.This episode is brought to you by YNAB, Armra, Boncharge, Foria, Just Thrive, Fatty15, and Ourplace.Visit www.ynab.com/well to claim an exclusive three-month free trial, with no credit card required.Go to armra.com/WELL or enter WELL to get 30% off your first subscription order.Save 15% off my favorite Red Light Face Mask by using code BLONDE at www.boncharge.com.Get 20% off your first order when you visit foriawellness.com/BLONDE or use code BLONDE at checkout.Go to justthrivehealth.com and use code WELL for 20% off your first 90 day bottle of Just Thrive probiotic. Visit fatty15.com/WELL and use code WELL at checkout for an additional 15% off their Starter Kit.Go to fromourplace.com/BLONDE and use code BLONDE for 10% off sitewide.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hallie Gould is GM and editor-in-chief of the online beauty publication Byrdie. She joins the show for a fun and candid deep dive into the beauty and wellness world from both sides of the industry. We get into skincare routines and Hallie’s specific go-to products, how aging, hormones, and breakouts change the way we approach maintenance, and the instant-gratification treatments she actually thinks are worth it. Hallie pulls back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes at media outlets—how editors vet products they recommend, what celebrity disclosures about surgery mean for readers, and which trends are here to stay. We also talk hair hacks, the crossover of beauty and wellness, and embracing our 40s with confidence—complete with Eva Longoria and Salma Hayek aging-goals inspo. Plus, Hallie shares her experience with treatments like Softwave and PRF, and walks us through her makeup routine for that effortless dewy glow.This episode is brought to you by YNAB, Open Phone, Field of Greens, Our Place, Ritual, Jolie, and Momentous.Visit www.ynab.com/well to claim an exclusive three-month free trial, with no credit card required.Visit quo.com/BLONDE for 20% off 6 months. Get 20% off when you use promo code WELL at fieldofgreens.com. Go to fromourplace.com/BLONDE and use code BLONDE for 10% off sitewide.Visit ritual.com/BLONDE for 25% off your first month. Go to jolieskinco.com/WELL for free shipping.Use promo code blonde for 35% off your first subscription order at livemomentous.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nina Westbrook is a licensed marriage and family therapist, host of Do Tell podcast, and founder of health and wellness platforms Bene and Nebbi. She joins the show for a candid conversation about the realities of relationships including being an introvert married to a public figure and how she’s learned to say no in order to protect her peace. We explore whether a partner should be responsible for your happiness, the difference between “doing the work” in a relationship versus forcing something that isn’t right, and if every challenge is truly fixable—including infidelity. Nina also shares her perspective on the 50/50 debate, how to maintain independence when you’re deeply connected, and what it’s really like to be married to an athlete. This conversation is equal parts practical wisdom and heartfelt honesty—perfect for anyone navigating love, commitment, and personal growth within a partnership.Explore Nina's new app, Nebbi, a first-of-its-kind, science-backed mental wellness app designed to help individuals and communities build resilience, embrace mindful living, and cultivate a deeper sense of well-being in their everyday lives: https://www.thenebbiway.io/ This episode is brought to you by Bellami Hair, The Real Real, Neurogum, Everyday Dose, and Nutrafol.Try BellamiHair.com and use code WELL for 25% off your first clip-in order & book a free consultation. Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to TheRealReal.com/well.Visit neurogum.com and use code WELL to get 20% off your first order.Grab your BOGO Everyday Dose at Target. Buy 2, get paid back for 1 — visit everydaydose.com/WELL for more details.Visit Nutrafol.com and enter code BLONDE for $10 off your first month and free shipping. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Latt Mansor is a researcher and global expert in metabolic health, with a PhD from Oxford in physiology, specializing in nutrition, ketones, and human performance. He joins the show to break down what really drives metabolism, energy, and weight loss. We dive into common myths, the truth about fast vs. slow metabolism, and what to do when you hit a weight loss plateau. Dr. Mansor explains how hormones, stress, and nutrient deficiencies affect fat burning and wellbeing, how carb cycling can work to your advantage, and why ketones may be a powerful tool—not only for metabolism, but also for anxiety, sleep, and sustained energy. We also compare ketones to caffeine and GLP-1s, giving you science-backed insights to cut through the noise and optimize your health.This episode is brought to you by Ketone-IQ, Boncharge, Ro Body, Puori, Fatty15, OurPlace, and Purely Elizabeth.Visit https://ketone.com/WELL for 30% OFF your subscription order PLUS receive a free gift with your second shipment—or find Ketone-IQ at Target stores nationwide and get your first shot free!Save 15% off my favorite Red Light Face Mask by using code BLONDE at www.boncharge.com.Go to ro.co/BLONDE to see if your insurance covers GLP-1s for free.Use promo code BLONDE at Puori.com/BLONDE for 20% off.Visit fatty15.com/WELL and use code WELL at checkout for an additional 15% off their Starter Kit.Go to fromourplace.com/BLONDE and use code BLONDE for 10% off sitewide.Visit purelyelizabeth.com and use code WELL at checkout for 20% off.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Miguel Mascaró is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for his refined, natural results and advanced approach to aesthetics. He joins the show for a deep dive into the cutting edge of aesthetics—and many (funny) personal anecdotes between the two of us as well. From Sculptra and fat transfers to biostimulators vs. fillers, we break down what actually works, when to start considering facelifts (including endoscopic ones) and the underrated procedure nearly every celebrity swears by. We also get real about complications, controversial trends like fox eyes and buccal fat removal, and the next wave of regenerative treatments: think PDRN “salmon sperm,” exosomes, PDGF, Softwave, RF microneedling, and even bee venom as a Botox alternative. On a light note we hold a trend funeral, expose who is more vain between the two of us, talk what procedure he’s had to talk me out of, and much more. Whether you’re curious about the science, the trends, or just want to know what’s hype vs. what’s here to stay, this conversation is equal parts educational and entertaining.This episode is brought to you by YNAB, OSEA, Just Thrive, Ritual, Fatty15, Prolon, and Purely Elizabeth.Visit www.ynab.com/well to claim an exclusive three-month free trial, with no credit card required.Get 10% your first order sitewide with code BLONDE at OSEAMalibu.com.Go to justthrivehealth.com and use code Well for 20% off. Visit ritual.com/BLONDE for 25% off your first month. Visit fatty15.com/BLONDE or use code BLONDE for an additional 15% off their Starter Kit.Go to ProLonLife.com/BLONDE for 15% off plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-day program.Visit purelyelizabeth.com and use code WELL at checkout for 20% off.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.