The Business of Being Yourself with Isa Kristen

In this episode of Unscripted, I sit down with Adriana Culling, founder of Maeva Aesthetics in Austin, to have an honest conversation about the world of injectables, beauty standards, and the pressure to constantly “fix” something about ourselves.Adriana is known for her thoughtful, natural approach to aesthetics, and we get into what that actually means in an industry where trends, social media, and comparison can easily influence the way we see our own faces. We talk Botox, filler, facial balancing, and some of the biggest misconceptions people have before ever sitting in an injector’s chair.We also dive into:• The biggest misconceptions about Botox and filler• How to know when you’re doing too much• Why a good injector should sometimes tell you “no”• The difference between enhancing your features and changing your face• How social media has changed the way women view aging and beauty• Why the same treatment isn’t right for every face• What “natural results” actually mean• Red flags to look for when choosing an injector• Treatments and trends that may be overhyped• The pressure women feel to prevent aging before it even happens• How Adriana approaches aesthetics differently at Maeva• Learning to make beauty decisions for yourself instead of chasing a trendWhether you already get injectables, have been curious about them, or have absolutely no idea where to start, this episode is all about being more informed and intentional with the choices you make. Because wanting to enhance something about yourself and loving yourself can exist at the same time.Tune in for an honest, educational conversation about injectables, aging, beauty standards, and the question so many of us are starting to ask: are we doing too much?Connect with Adriana:Instagram: www.instagram.com/adrianacullingInstagram: www.instagram.com/wearemaevaTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@adrianacullingStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@karishmapatel__YouTube: www.youtube.com/@karishmaaapatelKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@karishmaaapatelGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

This week on Unscripted, I’m sitting down with Isa Kristen, content creator, beauty and lifestyle girl, and one of my newest Austin friends! We’re talking about everything from building a career online and the reality behind being a full-time creator to moving to a new city, relationships, friendships, confidence, and figuring out what’s next.Isa shares how she got started in content creation, what she’s learned about turning your personal brand into a business, and the creator advice she wishes she knew sooner. We also get into comparison on social media, staying authentic when your life is your content, working with brands, and what people don’t always see behind the highlight reel.We also dive into:• Moving to Austin and starting a new chapter• Making genuine friendships as an adult• The business side of being an influencer• Creator advice for anyone wanting to grow online• Comparison, confidence, and protecting your peace• Knowing what to share online vs. keep private• Relationships and the green flags that matter• Girl advice and lessons we’ve learned along the way• Beauty favorites, creator hot takes, and rapid fire questionsThis one is the perfect mix of creator talk, business advice, and a good old-fashioned girl chat. Whether you’re trying to grow online, navigating a new season of life, or just want to feel like you’re hanging out with your girlfriends, this episode is for you!Connect with Isa:Instagram: www.instagram.com/isa_kristen22TikTok: www.tiktok.com/ @isa_kristen22  Youtube: www.youtube.com/@UCPKV5vD3EEuKS1RWBYPtwlw Stay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyle  Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Healthy hair isn't about buying every viral product you see on TikTok, and this episode proves exactly why.This week, I'm joined by hairstylist Katie West from Headspace Salon in Austin to answer the questions everyone has about hair care. From common misconceptions and hair growth myths to extensions, coloring, heat damage, and the products actually worth your money, Katie breaks down what really matters when it comes to achieving healthier hair.We also talk about how social media has changed the beauty industry, why everyone's hair journey is different, and the biggest mistakes she sees clients make every day.Whether you're trying to grow your hair, improve its health, or simply understand what works and what doesn't, this episode is packed with practical advice you'll actually use.In this episode, we cover:• The biggest hair care myths• How to actually grow healthy hair• Heat styling, damage, and breakage• Hair washing tips and common mistakes• Extensions, coloring, and scalp health• Products worth buying (and what to skip)• TikTok hair trends that aren't always accurate• Katie's best advice for healthier hairIf you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's always looking for better hair days.Connect with Katie:Instagram: www.instagram.com/heykatiewestInstagram: www.instagram.com/_katiedoeshairTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@heykatiewestStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyle  Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this follow up episode, Shreya Kolluri is back on the podcast, and so much has changed since our first conversation.We catch up on everything from her engagement and wedding planning to how life has evolved both on and off social media. Shreya opens up about navigating a new season of life, protecting her relationship while living online, and how her perspective on success, content creation, and personal growth has shifted over the past year.We also dive into the realities of being a creator in today's social media landscape, the pressure to keep up, setting boundaries, and conquering anxious moments. Of course, it wouldn't be a catch up without plenty of laughs. We play fun games, answer rapid fire questions, and share stories you won't see on Instagram.Whether you've followed Shreya for years or you're just discovering her, this episode is a reminder that growth isn't always loud, life doesn't have to look perfect, and every new chapter brings something worth celebrating.In this episode, we cover:• Life updates since our last conversation• Engagement and wedding planning• Navigating relationships while sharing life online• The evolution of social media and content creation• Creator burnout and setting healthy boundaries• Lessons from this season of life• Rapid fire questions and fun games• Advice for embracing change and growthConnect with Shreya:Instagram: www.instagram.com/shreyakolluriTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@shreyakolluriStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyle  Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

This week on Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by women’s health coach and fitness expert Addie Vela for a conversation every woman needs to hear.From hormones and strength training to nutrition, recovery, and wellness trends, we’re breaking down the biggest misconceptions women have about their health and what actually works when it comes to feeling your best. Addie shares practical advice on training around your cycle, fueling your body properly, and letting go of the all or nothing mindset that keeps so many women stuck.Whether you're trying to build strength, improve your relationship with food, navigate hormonal changes, or simply feel more confident in your body, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable takeaways.In this episode, we discuss:The biggest misconceptions women have about fitness and weight lossWhy women shouldn't approach training exactly like menUnderstanding your menstrual cycle and how it impacts performanceHow to adjust workouts throughout different phases of your cycleThe truth about metabolism, calories, and sustainable fat lossWhy eating more can sometimes help you reach your goalsCommon nutrition mistakes women makeStrength training for long term health and longevityRecovery, stress management, and hormone healthWellness trends that are overhyped vs. worth tryingBuilding healthy habits that actually lastIf you've ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting health advice online, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters.Connect with Addie:Instagram: www.instagram.com/addievelafitnessStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyle  Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

This week on Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m sitting down with content creator and former teacher Payal Desai for a real conversation about social media, going viral, creator burnout, confidence, and what it actually looks like to build a career online.We talk about Payal’s journey from posting teacher outfit videos to becoming a full time creator, the pressure that comes with being perceived online, and the parts of influencer life people don’t usually talk about. From internet culture and comparison to finding balance and staying true to yourself, this episode feels like a FaceTime call with your internet besties.If you’ve ever questioned your path, compared yourself online, or wondered what really happens behind the perfectly curated content… this one’s for you.Topics we cover:Leaving teaching and becoming a full time creatorThe reality of going viralCreator burnout and social media pressureConfidence and self identity onlineThe highs and lows of internet cultureComparison, validation, and staying groundedBuilding a personal brand authenticallyAdvice for aspiring creatorsConnect with Payal:Instagram: www.instagram.com/payalforstyleTikTok: www.TikTok.com/payalforstyleStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyle  Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In today’s episode, Samantha Rose gets real about what happens when life forces you to pause. We dive into the emotional, physical, and deeply personal journey she experienced after her thyroid surgery, the unexpected challenges that followed, and the ways her healing changed the way she sees herself. This is a conversation about slowing down, listening to your body, rebuilding your confidence, and learning to trust yourself again.Samantha opens up about being in a season where everything felt heavy: the surgery, the recovery, the loss of control, the identity shifts, and the emotional toll that comes with not feeling like yourself. She shares the parts of healing no one talks about, the fear of not knowing what your body will feel like day to day, and how she learned to give herself grace through all of it.This episode feels grounding, soft, and real. A reminder that healing is not linear and becoming the stronger version of yourself often happens in the quiet moments.We talk aboutWhat her thyroid surgery taught her about slowing down and letting goThe emotional roller coaster of healing and not recognizing your own bodyHow she rebuilt her confidence during a vulnerable seasonWhy listening to your body is not only important but necessaryShifts in friendships, boundaries, and relationships during recoveryThe fear of feeling “behind” when everyone else seems to be moving fastHow she learned to rest without feeling guiltyThe moment she realized she could trust her body againWhat becoming “her” looks like after going through something so life changingIf you’ve ever had to start over with your bodyYou will feel so seen in this conversation. Samantha reminds us that slowing down is not weakness. Rest is not falling behind. And healing can create a new version of you that is stronger, wiser, and more aligned.Listen if you’re cravingReal conversation about healingA reminder that slowing down is okayA moment to breathePermission to restA story that makes you feel less aloneConnect with Samantha:Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifestylewithsamanthaTikTok: www.TikTok.com/lifestylewithsamanthaStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Lately, a longtime Austin content creator who has mastered the art of keeping it real both online and offline. We dive into what it truly means to find balance as a creator, how to show up authentically without burning out, and why stepping away sometimes leads to the best ideas.Rachel opens up about her journey in the creator space, how her content has evolved over the years, and the importance of enjoying life beyond the feed. We talk about everything from navigating social media pressure to embracing slower seasons and finding joy in everyday moments.If you have ever struggled with staying consistent without losing yourself, this conversation is for you. It is honest, fun, and such a good reminder that life happens beyond the camera roll, and that is where the real stories begin.Key Takeaways:You can slow down without falling behind — creativity often thrives in rest.Authenticity is not a strategy, it is a lifestyle.Boundaries are the key to staying sane as a creator.Real life will always inspire better content than comparison ever could.You are allowed to evolve, both online and off.Connect with RachelInstagram: www.instagram.com/rachellatelyInstagram: www.instagram.com/512bitesTikTok: www.TikTok.com/512bitesStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Summary:In this hilarious and honest episode, Karishma sits down with comedian and viral sensation Pinky Patel — who took the internet (and comedy stages) by storm. From cracking jokes in her closet to performing sold-out shows across the country, Pinky opens up about how it all began, what it took to step into her confidence, and how she’s balancing it all while staying true to herself.This conversation is about more than just laughs — it’s about taking risks, breaking stereotypes, and finding your power by being exactly who you are.In This Episode:How Pinky Patel went from PTA mom to full-time comedianThe moment she realized her humor had a bigger purposeWhat people really said when she started pursuing comedyHow she deals with criticism and stays groundedFinding confidence and identity as a South Asian woman in the spotlightThe behind-the-scenes reality of touring, family, and hustleHer advice for anyone scared to start something newKey Takeaway:Being unapologetically yourself isn’t just brave — it’s your superpower. Pinky reminds us that the real magic happens when you stop trying to fit in and start showing up as you.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — and don’t forget to follow @unscriptedwithkp and @kp.fitstyle for more behind-the-scenes and upcoming Unscripted guests.Connect with Pinky:Instagram: www.instagram.com/pinkypatelofficialShe's on tour right now: https://pinkypatel.komi.io/?fbclid=PAdGRleANk2RxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp6lpBbfHbNSsKKXOtXtHjmxKCgFefBAYoLhPLgSADrvOIun93HjVY_auBcwS_aem_qmOkGo25yDEyiS6KuJGabwStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this heartfelt episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Shruti Babu — a mom of two, breast cancer survivor, and founder of SAMOSA, a collective created to bring South Asian creators together through connection, community, and storytelling.Shruti opens up about her journey through breast cancer — from the diagnosis to the emotional and societal challenges she faced — and how she turned that pain into a mission to empower others. We talk about what it really means to find strength in vulnerability, to redefine beauty and identity after illness, and to build a life rooted in gratitude and purpose.This conversation is raw, real, and deeply inspiring — a reminder that survival isn’t just about making it through, but about rediscovering yourself along the way.In this episode, we dive into:Navigating breast cancer as a South Asian woman and motherThe mental, emotional, and physical healing processHandling societal stigma and unsolicited opinionsCreating SAMOSA and the importance of representationRedefining confidence, femininity, and community after hardshipConnect with Shruti:Instagram: www.instagram.com/pajamamama512Stay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show