Hormonal birth control isn’t your only option. Yet, for many reasons, it seems to be the option most favorably promoted to women. Slipp, a “female-first” condom brand, is changing that. Simply put, we deserve to have more shame-free options when it comes to birth control.

I first came across Slipp on Instagram. I was captivated by the content I saw because it was honest, unfiltered, informative, and very relatable. The message that “safe sex is self-care,” stuck with me. I appreciated how conversations around sex and sexual health were happening on the page. I knew that I wanted to bring some of that conversation to the blog, so I slid into Slipp’s DMs and got in touch with Victoria, the founder of Slipp.

In our Q&A discussion, we chat about shame-free protection, setting boundaries, and consent. I’m excited for you to read along and join the convo!

Q: First, can you share a bit about yourself and Slipp?

A: My name is Victoria Lyons and I’m the Founder of Slipp Health – a “female-first” condom brand (not to be confused with ‘female condoms’!).

Our mission is to minimize the barriers that prevent women from buying/carrying/using condoms and help people feel in control of their reproductive health.

Our condoms are delivered discreetly to customers’ doors so they can avoid the awkward trip to the condom aisle; and developed with simple ingredients for optimal vaginal health.

Q: What inspired you to start Slipp?

A: I have personally sought out non-hormonal birth control methods and been frustrated with the lack of options on the market. 

In doing so, I found condoms to be a great option: they are highly effective; they don’t come with the side effects of many other methods; and they’re pretty affordable (relatively speaking).

But I learned that women, in particular, feel awkward about condoms.

• 68% of women say they feel uncomfortable buying condoms
• 82% of sexually-active women say they don’t carry condoms with them
• And women are more likely than men to feel uncomfortable enforcing the use of a condom

On top of that, I felt like the condoms on the market weren’t speaking to women about their reproductive health concerns. So I decided to step in and try to fill that gap in the market.

Q: What have been some challenges and successes so far in starting your business?

A: Challenges: Where to begin?! There are so so so many components to starting a business. I think one of the hardest things is not knowing what you don’t know. There’s no guidebook to starting this specific business. So I’m constantly learning on the fly. The good part is that since there are so many challenges, there are lots of opportunities to overcome them and become more and more confident in my ability to do so.

Successes: I am honestly just so happy to have gotten this far! To have a physical product that I can see and touch is so exciting. I can’t wait for our upcoming launch and to continue to grow from here.

Q: Why do you believe there is such a stigma around condoms?

A: I think women, in particular, experience a stigma around buying/carrying condoms. There actually used to be a law that carrying condoms as a woman could be used as evidence of prostitution (crazy, I know).

There’s this notion that carrying condoms as a woman is promiscuous. Yet, when a man is carrying condoms they’re generally seen as responsible. I think the reasons for this are complex and deeply rooted in the history of gender inequality and purity culture.

I think it’s important to normalize women carrying condoms so that more of us can feel in control of our sexual health.

Q: When you say shame-free protection, what does that mean to you?

A: I think there should be no shame in taking care of your body, and no one should make you feel uncomfortable for enforcing the use of a condom. 

Q: What would you say to women who are hesitant to carry condoms?

Personally, I think carrying condoms feels empowering. It sends a message that you’re in control of your sexual health and you care enough about your body to take care of it.

Q: According to Slipp’s page, women are more likely to feel uncomfortable enforcing the use of a condom. What advice would you have for women that may empower them to set boundaries in the bedroom? 

A: Women – more than men – tend to have an ingrained belief that they should put their partner’s pleasure above their own wants/desires (you can thank the patriarchy for that!). 

However, there are a few things that might help you feel more comfortable enforcing the use of a condom:

1. Bringing your own condoms can help you feel more ownership over your contraceptive choice, making you feel more confident asserting your desire to use one.
2. Keep them somewhere handy! Sometimes people tell me they think condoms “kill the mood.” But often that has to do with having to scramble to find one. If you keep them somewhere handy, you can seamlessly put one on with little interruption.
3. Have conversations about contraception BEFORE you’re in the heat of the moment. Communication is key – so take the opportunity to discuss your contraceptive choices before you’re in the heat of the moment so that all parties are on the same page.
4. Remind yourself that healthcare is self-care – safe sex included! You don’t want your sexual experience to be tainted with worry and fear after it’s over because you didn’t take the proper precautions. Sex is so much better when you feel safe, healthy, and protected!

Q: I believe that when we talk about sex, we also have to talk about consent. What misconceptions have you noticed around the conversation of consent?

A: Absolutely. 

For one, I think consent is more than saying “yes.” Consent is an enthusiastic yes, and should involve continuous feedback (in other words: you can change your mind at any time). For example, try saying things like, “is this ok?” “do you want to keep going?” etc. to check in with your partner over time.

Also, I don’t think there’s enough of a conversation about the importance of getting consent before having sex without protection. If you choose to not use protection, it’s important that both/all individuals are on board with that decision, and have clearly consented to it. Don’t assume your partner is on birth control, or that they’re okay with it. It should also be agreed upon each time you engage in sex.

Q: Where can we keep up with you?

A: @slipphealth on all platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter)! Or check out slipp.org to sign up for our mailing list to know when we launch (soon!).

Brianne Helfrich is a college student, CEO, and podcast host. She is originally from Edmonton, Alberta, but she currently lives in Pittsburgh where she is completing a master’s program before attending medical school. During the pandemic, she started her clothing brand, Helfrich Collective.

Brianne and I recently connected on Instagram, and as soon as I heard a bit of her story, I knew that I wanted to have her on the blog. To say the least, she’s making things happen, and I admire that. Throughout our Q&A, Brianne tells it how it is about starting her business, finding balance, and creating positive habits.

Q: What inspired you to start your business, Helfrich Collective?

A: During the pandemic, I started going through my own mental health struggles. I needed something to look forward to and work hard on, but I also wanted to give back and raise awareness. So, I randomly decided to start my own clothing brand that donates to various charities for each collection.

Q: What prepared you to start your business?

A: Honestly, I had no preparation before starting HC. I kind of jumped into it and as a STEM major, I had no business background. Thankfully, I was able to surround myself with people who understood the business side of HC and they have helped guide me along the way. A big thing that I’m thankful for is that I was taught and brought up with a strong work ethic. Like any business, it takes a lot of work and isn’t an overnight success type of thing. It’s very easy to get discouraged when starting your own business, so my resiliency has definitely helped the process.

Q: How do you balance being a CEO and attending school?

A: To be honest, most of the time I don’t balance it very well. I want to do the best I can at everything, so sometimes that means overworking myself and pushing myself a bit too hard. It’s something I’m working on because I know it’s not healthy for me and leads me to insane burnout. I think a big thing for me is prioritizing and planning ahead. It helps alleviate my anxiety and helps with my time management when I know what’s coming up and can prepare ahead of time. Another big thing is asking for help whenever I need it. Sometimes I can delegate tasks or even get advice when I feel like I’m having a tough time balancing.

Q: What are some positive habits that you’ve created in your life?

A: Positive habits I’ve created in my life are the usual things like working out, eating what makes me feel good, saying positive affirmations, etc. But one big thing that has really helped transform my life was seeking help and going to therapy. This has made such a positive impact on how I view myself and the world. Learning that it’s okay to not be okay and having a safe outlet to talk/express my feelings has been so impactful.

Q: What does a day in your life look like?

A: My days are pretty similar during the week, but normally I wake up around 5 am. I’ll then head to the gym (it’s my favorite way to de-stress), workout for a little bit, then go home and get ready for the day. I then head off to clinicals and school. I am constantly working on Helfrich Collective, so I’ll send emails, prep for launches, contact manufacturers, etc. all throughout the day. Then when I get home from school, I normally do any homework I have, make some dinner/watch TV/facetime my family and friends, and go to bed early.

Q: What advice would you give other 20-somethings who want to start their own businesses?

A: Just start. You will always feel like you aren’t ready or not prepared enough, but you learn by doing. It’s normal to make mistakes, so take everything as a learning curve and grow from it. Just believe in yourself, work hard and you can achieve anything.

Q: Where can we keep up with you?

A: Instagram @briannehelfrich & @helfrichcollective, TikTok @briannehelfrich & @helfrichcollective, shop HC at Helfrichcollective.com, and listen to Welcome to the Collective.

UK-based artist and author Florence Given has a gorgeously unique and defined style. I admire her bold attitude and confident self-expression. You may recall a few times on the blog where I have quoted her book, “Women Don’t Owe You Pretty.”

As a way to play around with my personal style, I recreated three of Florence’s in-feed outfits. This allowed me to mix and match items that I already had in my closet in new ways. This also forced me to jump outside of my comfort zone.

First up, I copied this little black dress look. This was fairly simple to put together since it just required a black dress, black boots, and a scarf. I think this is the perfect simple yet elevated outfit to go out in.

Second, I put my own twist on another one of Florence’s slip-dress looks. This outfit was a lot of fun to put together; it challenged me to mix up various patterns, textures, and colors.

Last but certainly not least, I recreated this black and denim look. As with the first outfit, the “recipe” is pretty simple. All you need is a black tank, black boots, jeans, and a black belt. This is a great outfit for looking effortlessly put together.

While I have my personal style preferences, recreating Florence’s outfits helped me to explore. I believe that when it comes to style, you have to be open to trying new things whether it’s a new trend or aesthetic. Through trials and the occasional errors, you are able to learn a lot about yourself and what your style truly is.

Which look was your favorite? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments or on Instagram. Let’s chat!

Racquel Goldy and Natasha Salehi are the entertaining and relatable duo known as the Millennial Girls. On their podcast, they share personal stories and behind-the-scenes fun from their experiences as Miami radio personalities. I am excited to have them on the blog to share their opinions and insights as millennials and women who work in media.

I asked them questions all about podcasting, millennial stereotypes, working in radio, and personal branding. We also discussed the topic of imposter syndrome. I hope you can learn something from my Q&A with the Millennial Girls; I know I did!

Let’s get into it, and let me introduce you to Racquel and Natasha!

About the Girls

Racquel hosted the afternoon drive-time radio show for Revolution 93.5 FM. In addition, she has covered red carpets as a correspondent for events like the Billboard Music Awards, iHeart Fiesta, and the Creative Arts Emmys. Her second passion project is creating Kpop Reaction Videos on YouTube.

Natasha graduated with a BA in Advertising. She started out managing social media for Revolution 93.5 FM. Then, she moved into a co-host spot on the morning show. Most recently, she was in the solo midday slot. Her second passion project is cooking live and sharing recipes on Instagram.

Q: Why did you start a podcast together?

A: Both being radio personalities in Miami, magic would happen when we would do things together, like getting featured in Billboard for our exclusive with Martin Garrix. We considered starting our own podcast on the side to “keep the dream alive”, so to speak, then the pandemic hit and we were let go from our jobs. We really had no other option but to create our own brand! 

With the podcast world booming, we felt this was the right place to keep ourselves relevant but also niche. As a radio personality, you are really only showing 20% of your “real” personality on-air. We knew this was a place to not take ourselves so seriously, and we wanted to be as real and relatable as possible.

We’re both experienced in public speaking, Natasha is the master editor for all things video/audio/social, and Racquel is the Queen of PR. So what better partnership right? That’s how the Millennial Girls Podcast was born.

Q: What inspired you to choose the name “Millennial Girls”?

A: Natasha woke up in the middle of her sleep one night at 3 am and texted Racquel “MILLENNIAL GIRLS”. Both being millennials, we felt it was broad enough to create a brand name as well as title our community made up of millennial females.

Q: What millennial stereotypes do you disagree with?

A: People think our generation is lazy and entitled, but in reality, we bust our butts to do what makes us happy, and that doesn’t necessarily mean a large paycheck! Not to mention we are the guinea pigs of social media which leads us to comparison culture.

Q: What millennial stereotypes do you agree with?

A: Having the confidence to question authority, achievement-oriented, and obsessed with technology. I mean we did create social media… Mark Zuckerberg, Kevin Systrom, Mike Krieger are all millennials.

Q: What has been your favorite opportunity that you’ve had through working in media?

A: Our greatest accomplishment was when we were given the opportunity to interview Martin Garrix shortly before Ultra and Miami Music Week. Our goal was to get an exclusive, and we did! The interview went viral on all EDM platforms including Billboard. 

Q: How do you view social media and personal branding in your field?

A: Social media and personal branding are part of your resume. Especially being in entertainment and radio, everything is based on how much engagement and how many followers you have across all platforms from YouTube to TikTok. If you don’t post on all platforms or don’t consistently post, unfortunately, you become “irrelevant”.

Q: Do you ever deal with imposter syndrome or comparison? How do you overcome it?

A: All the time. When you know you have to continuously post on social media, not only post, but also post great content, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of insecurity and comparison culture.

We overcome it by not concerning ourselves with other people and “cleaning out our social media closet” by unfollowing profiles that don’t motivate or inspire us. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we compare our own content to our past content and ask ourselves if it’s better and more creative. If it’s not, we go back to the drawing board and improve ourselves.

Q: What advice would you give to others who want to start a podcast?

A: Starting a podcast that you want to ultimately build as a brand on your own is a lot of work and takes a lot of time. First and foremost, the podcast has to be entertaining and bring value.

You have to have the right equipment, acoustics, editing software/tools, decide where to host your podcast, outreach to potential sponsors, outreach to potential guests, get your audience to share, consistent social media promotion, weekly episodes, keep your numbers up and growing, find ways to start making an income whether it be through retail sales or collabs… it’s not easy.

If you’re in it for the long haul, have patience, are consistent, and are ok with not being an overnight success, then get on that microphone and start podcasting!

Q: Where can we keep up with you?

A: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Apple Podcasts, and on our website.

Q: Is there anything else that you would like to add?

A: Sharing, following, liking, commenting, reviewing, and subscribing are all ways you can support our podcast! We know it’s a lot to ask, but it’s a simple click, right?

Collagen-based beauty products and powders have been growing in popularity. They offer an edible way to get better skin, stronger nails, and healthier hair. The idea is if you treat your inside well, then your outside will show it.

For a bit of background, Collagen is the main structural protein that we have in our bodies. We have it in our skin, bones, and muscles. It has an influence on our appearance and how our bodies work.

As we get older, our collagen breaks down faster than we can replace it. Collagen deficiencies can cause things like wrinkles and brittle nails/hair. This is where collagen supplements come in.

I wanted to see how the growing trend of edible collagen could work for me. Most collagen-based beauty products contain meat/fish, but I was able to find a plant-based option. Copina Co creates vegan collagen powders in three different flavors: original, cacao, and matcha.

I went for the matcha option. If you have been following along for a bit, you will know I cannot resist a good matcha latte.

To make the collagen-boosted drink, I combined the matcha powder with a warm cup of oat milk. I used my hand frother to really mix it, and then I poured the matcha over ice to complete my latte.

I found this drink to be the perfect addition to my morning routine. It is such a treat to enjoy after my workout, and it pairs well with my breakfast.

Aside from taste, I have also noticed some beauty benefits. My nails are actually growing healthier! Nail strength is something I have always struggled with; whenever my nails would grow to a decent length they would break. But, since I started drinking collagen (over a week ago) my nails have been thriving.

I am excited to see what other benefits I will see as I continue sipping. Just a couple days ago, I asked my Instagram community if they have ever used collagen and what they noticed. @betho_g said she had stronger hair and clearer skin. @milwaukeemomma experienced “thicker hair and nails.”

Have you ever used collagen products? What was your experience? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments or on Instagram. Let’s chat!

P.S. If you want to try out the Matcha Beauty Collagen Booster from Copina Co too, feel free to use my discount code “Roshak10” for 10% off! #ClubCopinaCo

Over the past couple weeks, I have been emailing with Julie Johnson. She’s a Texas resident, avid volunteer, and a teen-entrepreneur. In less than a month, she will be launching her own social media agency–Julie Johnson Creative. Her goal is to help businesses and individuals manage their various online platforms.

Social media, ironically enough, is how we got connected in the first place. I had so many questions for her. Owning your own business and being your own boss is a dream for many of us. Julie is making that happen at just 16.

We were able to *virtually* chat about what it’s like to be in her shoes and how she got started on her business journey. Along the way, Julie also shared some of her tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and insight on current social media trends.

Finding Her Passion

Julie explained that she discovered the world of social media marketing from being a content creator. When she was looking for ways to grow her own YouTube channel, she found a community of people that worked behind-the-scenes to help creators like her. From that point on, she knew it was an industry she wanted to get into. Social media marketing seemed to be the perfect blend of content creation and helping others; two things she adored.

But, she didn’t originally see herself in that world until after college. So why now? Well, Julie explained the impact current events had on her decision: “As soon as I noticed that companies were going out of business [during quarantine], I realized they had to move online in order to survive the economic downturn. I knew a lot about social media marketing from personal experience, internships, and courses…I felt that NOW was the right time to put those skills to use.” A strong need in the market presented itself.

Upon those realizations, Julie got to work defining her target audiences and conducting market research. She started planning out exactly what her business would be and how it would work.

Building Her Business

Julie admitted that it took a while to figure out all the details; it’s not just an overnight process. At first, she expressed her biggest challenge was not knowing where to start. She reached out to others in the industry for mentorship and advice. This helped her to be able to shape her business into what it is today. Julie was able to define social media management and consulting as her two main services.

Another thing that helped in the beginning was taking on free work to build her portfolio. This has led to paying partnerships. Julie is excited to open up conversations with more clients when she launches on June 1st.

She is also looking forward to all the plans she has for Julie Johnson Creative this summer. An entrepreneurship and business based podcast is in the works. PDF guides and online courses are additional content she aims to create. Julie also expressed her excitement for hiring a team and creating internship opportunities. Be sure to stay tuned!

Keeping Motivated & Inspired

A quote Julie mentioned as her favorite was, “If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.” She has reminded herself through stress and push-back that she believes in herself and has a vision for her business. Julie said her “why” is what really keeps her going; she recommends that any aspiring entrepreneur defines their “why”. Knowing why you started will be the reason you continue.

Julie also mentioned how her support system keeps her going. Initially she was hesitant to tell those close to her about her business. But, when she did family and friends congratulated her. She said she received so much support. Amazing things really can happen when you put yourself out there.

Learning While Creating

Most businesses are rapidly evolving during this time and social media always is. I was able to get an inside scoop from Julie on some trends to watch.

The first we discussed was IGTV. She described it as where YouTube meets Instagram. I believe that to be perfectly accurate. Julie said she discovered, through her work with clients, that IGTV videos reach a larger audience than just your Instagram grid. Video is growing. If you want to take advantage of it, IGTV is the place to create.

Another tip Julie shared was to utilize your Instagram stories as much as possible. According to her, “Viewers are more likely to watch your story than stalk your Instagram posts. You can also track immediate engagement on stories, including who views it.” It is good to know who is engaging with your content. It can help you define your audience.

If You Want to Start a Business…

Julie advises to think about things very realistically. It takes hard work and commitment to be an entrepreneur. You need to be aware of what you are getting yourself into. If it still seems like something you want to do, Julie says “find your passion and make a business out of it!”

Keeping Up with Julie Johnson

To learn more about Julie’s business, you can check out her website here. Also, feel free to visit her and say hello on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

If you know me IRL or if you have heard any of my podcasts, you may have read that title perfectly in my voice. It has been a catch-phrase in my vocabulary, and its major comeback is thanks to Blooming With Joy Tea.

Recently, I got the opportunity to work with this fun and family-run tea company. I’m a tea-lover (and self-identifying connoisseur), so this made for the perfect collaboration.

Blooming With Joy sent me over their New Blend Box; its a monthly subscription box that they curate with three different teas to try. As you will see, it even includes some extra goodies! When the happy mail came to my door, I couldn’t wait to unbox it.

Inside I found two trial size teas; I already sipped on the “Sanitea” blend and am looking forward to trying the “Cheeryful Heart” herbal tea. I also received a full size of their “Double Chocolate Chai” black tea (yum!).

A few lil candies were included in the box along with a cute card, it reads:

“To the Fairest of them all, Be kind. Be patient. Be generous. Be accepting. Be all of this things to yourself. That is were it begins.”

If that wasn’t sweet enough, the flip side includes descriptions of the teas that suggest pairing options and give even more kind words. I appreciated the thought and time that was put into the box; it truly is a tea tasting experience. I would recommend it to any tea-lover looking to explore.

Keep Calm & Brew On

You can check out the Blooming With Joy New Blend Box here; its only $14.99 a month with free shipping! Blooming With Joy is also active on Instagram and Facebook.

You can check out my unboxing video here to join me for a cup of tea!