Enjoy this interview with Rana and Cassie Lane (founder of Injectables EDU) talking about advice for new aesthetic injectors

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Nivo Palanti RN Introducing Nico our latest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Nico took part in a training way back in 2019. Since Nico has also become one our expert trainers at The Confidence Lab. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Prior to aesthetics, I was working grueling hours in the emergency department of a Chicago suburb hospital. It wasn’t until a few years into practice at the patient bedside that I experienced the emotional and physical signs of nursing “burnout”. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I thought that helping others in critical care with lifesaving resuscitation interventions would fulfil my desire and internal call for helping others. Initially, this was the career path I had always dreamed of holding. However, I was wrong and fell victim to the churn and burn of hospital employment. Growing up, I used to be fascinated with plastic surgery. However, having spent time in the operating room as an anesthesia tech prior to nursing, I learned that the OR was not a place for me. I learned that outpatient cosmetic procedures make an impactful result without going “under the knife”. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I pursued my education with The Confidence Lab’s training program due to the immersive structure of a two-day workshop seminar that provides didactic and hands-on training. The organization of this program provides a student with the best application of applying hands on education following valuable in class lectures. The Confidence Lab’s training program provides practice models, which streamlines the process to hands-on learning without a student needing to find a model of their own. Why look elsewhere when everything is accessible and easy! What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? The field of aesthetics is an evolving area of medicine, where evidence-based practice and advancements in technology is continuously shaping and improving standards of care. Aesthetic medicine provides a high degree of patient autonomy that allows creativity and artistry to mold within the spectrum of medicine. I have found my niche! The relationships that I build with my patients is unmatched from any other healthcare setting that I have experienced. I truly believe that when you look good, you feel good. Aesthetic medicine allows a provider to boost one’s confidence and self-esteem. I can personally attest to the positive rewards that I leave with each impactful appointment among my patients that I never felt in the emergency room. What are you doing now? Currently, I am a top producing aesthetic injector at a Chicago metro medical spa, SpaDerma. I have been practicing at SpaDerma for 4 years, directly following my introductory training at The Confidence Lab. I have recently tapped into my passion for teaching and aspiring others, as a new educator at The Confidence Lab! It is here where I am continuously uplifted by a group of brilliant, and knowledgeable women sharing my own values of providing safe and ethical standard of aesthetic medicine. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? The best advice that I can provide to a prospective candidate interested in pursuing a career in aesthetics is to simply take the plunge! My biggest fear was losing clinical knowledge from the bedside in which I invested many years in school, and not to mention debt of student loans. However, aesthetic injectors use clinical reasoning with every patient, not limited to consultations, assessments, and implementation of an aesthetic care plan. I feel more empowered and driven in any career that I have held within medicine. Get your foot into the door of aesthetics and restore the work-life balance that you deserve!

Lisa Rivero, an essential member of The Confidence Lab's education team, imparts her invaluable expertise, wisdom, and insights drawn from her decade-long role as an injector and educator. In a world of nurses, aesthetic providers and aesthetic educators, there are individuals who embody the spirit of empathy, education, and empowerment. I can only aspire to have those words be used to describe me one day. I began my professional journey as a pediatric nurse at Children’s Memorial Hospital, now known as Lurie Children’s Hospital. As a young nurse, I was guided by compassion and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those little ones struggling with morbidity they did not deserve. Helping them feel “normal” was my constant compass as they battled testing, lab draws, medication and surgery. I wanted them to feel strong and indestructible. I wanted them to feel empowered. After earning my advanced nurse practitioner degree from DePaul University in 2006, I continued to follow my calling of service and care. I was extremely fortunate to be employed at a federally qualified health center in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. I was able to offer my expertise and compassion to those facing barriers to healthcare due to lack of insurance or financial means. I prided myself on being the best educator to my patients to help them navigate the many diagnoses that were rampant in low-income societies. I wanted to offer them a sense of understanding and support they so many times we not given. In 2012, a new chapter began as I entered the aesthetic industry. The start of my career was challenging. I took a position as a mobile aesthetic provider where I had to drive to the homes of my patients to perform aesthetic services. Aesthetics was not your typical avenue for nurses. I was not supporting patients through health issues but rather boosting self-confidence and allowing them to take charge of the aging process. I realized that I was helping to make a difference in their personal lives, their professional lives, and to their mental wellbeing. I realized I was EMPOWERING my patients with aesthetic treatments. In 2022, I joined the esteemed team at The Confidence Bar. It was here that I finally found my WHY in my life again. I adore my patients. I am always striving to be the best provider for them. I love building their self-esteem. But I found a SECOND WHY in my life. And one I found to be even more powerful. It wasn’t until I was offered the chance to educate other aesthetic providers, that I was brought back to my core passion of empowering others, but now as an educator. Through education, I am able to help individuals reach levels of self-assuredness they are all striving to have. I am able to build a sense of confidence that propels them forward to become even better. I am able to help them recognize the that aesthetics is STILL MEDICINE and we need to be safe and thoughtful with all our treatments. Being an educator of aesthetic providers has not only become my profession, but also my purpose and motivation in the aesthetic industry. The role of an educator demand significant effort on my part to uphold the pillars of empathy, education, and empowerment, principles I firmly believe in. Principles that I strive for in my personal and professional life and principles that I feel are exemplified and taught at The Confidence Bar.

I received an unexpected message from someone asking about my branding, and I couldn't help but chuckle. I thought, "What branding?" But it turns out, they genuinely wanted to know who I used for branding, and that's quite a flattering compliment. Before I embarked on The Confidence Bar journey, I laid down the cornerstone by crafting the logo, mission statement, and core values. This foundation needed to be rock-solid, the heartbeat driving the growth of the business. It became my unwavering commitment - I would die against this sword! Maybe a little too dramatic Rana (haha). Once your mission and values are solid, you step into the choices of colours (so many bloody colours)!) and imagery, which is the more exciting part. Colour Palette: My choice of colours was inspired by skin tones. I intentionally avoided the conventional white, black, or yellow. I settled on a rose tone to embrace all skin types for my main colour. At that time, everyone seemed stuck on blues and whites, which didn't resonate with me. I was reluctant, fearing failure, but I reminded myself that my appearance didn't fit the typical mold of an aesthetic provider. So, why should my brand? Our foundation color is rose gold, complemented by a hint of green, a homage to the lush grass of New Zealand that's so breathtaking it can move you to tears and make your eyes hurt with the bright glare! Imagery: My inspiration draws from my birthplace, New Zealand, and the rich Maori culture, blending our heritage with the natural beauty of the landscape. I injected a touch of playfulness too, breaking away from the clinical, sterile aesthetics. For The Confidence Lab, I embraced a mad scientist vibe, and for The Confidence Bar, a mix of metals, woods, and a few unexpected elements like animal heads. Strangely enough, I've never used vision boards or Pinterest for this - I imagined this as a beautiful project holding, smelling and loving on fabrics, woods etc but I simply didn't have the time. It's more about surrounding myself with things that resonate with me and create positive feelings – something I'm rediscovering as I share this with you. Our logo is a daily reminder of our identity, stemming from the Maori koru pendant that my son wears around his neck, gifted by his grandmother. What's incredible is that I didn't fully realize that my brand visuals were organically communicating these core values to our audience. It's grown that way because it genuinely our foundation. Currently, Ian (my better calmer half) and I are working on a new website, even changing our fonts. Interestingly, our team leaned towards the more feminine, flowing text rather than my preference for clean and seamless. I believe in incorporating our team's input, after all, it's their workplace too. Watch this space for some girlie text chose by our team (too girlie for me). I'm excited to unveil the new website soon. I'll be back here to share insights into crafting your core values, a process that evolves over months and can be reshaped by challenges along the way. Recently, I added "honesty" to our core values – something you'd assume is a given, but even the most obvious principles need to be reinforced. This is a blog post that is very important to share. Over and out from me for now, with love, Rana

Up until now, Rana has shared more than 850 posts on Patreon. Every Sunday, Rana consistently provides a minimum of 3-4 informative posts. Here's a glimpse of the kind of knowledge you gain as a patron:

Have you heard of Patreon and what the fuss is all about? Rana and her team of educators at The Confidence Lab share behind-the-scenes knowledge on consultation, evaluation, product information, injection techniques, business pearls, and much, much more. Patreon is all about creating a community of sharing where we can ask questions and help one another.⁣ Every week, we post a minimum of four new videos with a plethora of 'behind the scenes'. Pearls for both beginning and experienced providers wishing to build on existing talents. ⁣ ⁣We are glad to say that it starts at only $15 per month and that we offer a free 7-day trial to aesthetic practitioners ONLY. Check it out; we'd love to hear your thoughts, and even better, please share what you'd like to see.⁣ ⁣ We are happy to say that Patreon community is expanding. Here are some amazing accounts to follow and do let us know who we missed and who you enjoy following. ⁣ Links to our fav Patreon account: @drstef_gatica_dnp⁣ @amiemartinrn⁣ @dani_sparkle_pa⁣ @botoxbunny⁣ @unfilteredinjector⁣ @instituteofaesthetics⁣ @rechelle.trejo.aesthetics⁣ @lipsdontlikesharkira ⁣ @jubliant.julie

Discover the sought-after Sculptra dilution ratios and methods for effectively managing fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, age-related volume depletion, and achieving the signature Sculptra glow! Through request we are delighted to present out first Confidence Lab Sculptra In-house CME approved training on Oct 27 2023 with our resident expert on the product Lauren Gardstrom. Lauren's primary injectable of choice is Sculptra when it comes to addressing fine lines, wrinkles, texture, and age related volume loss. Lauren began using Sculptra before it was hot on the market, and has years of experience with the product prior to the product becoming FDA indicated for treating skin texture, Lauren began to notice her patients were presenting with a post injection glow, now dubbed the "Sculptra glow." She has always been one step ahead of the market for PLLA injections and continues to do so by attending esteemed injector conferences and courses, fueling her passion for education and training on products she loves and believes in. The Agenda CME Credits This activity is in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of MECOP and The Confidence Lab. MECOP is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The activity is approved for 6 CME credits. Session Outline: Didactic Presentation by Lauren: The training begins with a comprehensive presentation. Lauren will provide in-depth insights into Sculptra Aesthetic, explaining its uses, benefits, and the science behind PLLA injections. Live Model Demonstration: Following the presentation, there will be a live demonstration on a model to showcase the application of Sculptra Aesthetic. Lauren will illustrate the injection techniques and treatment areas that are her favourite. Hands-On Experience: Each session is limited to three attendees to ensure personalized attention. Each attendee will have dedicated one-on-one time with Lauren for hands-on experience. This practical segment involves supervised injections, allowing participants to apply what they've learned into their own practice.

Cristina Herman one of our experienced expert trainers at The Confidence Lab provides insightful advice for new and seasoned aesthetic providers. The art of becoming successful as a new or seasoned aesthetic provider cannot be done overnight. Self-awareness is the secret recipe to success. It allows you to identify your weaknesses that you can either let define you or realize that you have room for growth. It is ok to make mistakes, receive criticism and turn that into being a stronger and confident provider. My biggest secret? I selfishly want to be the best in order to bring the best for my patients and fellow peers. But lets face a hard truth, being the best, especially in the aesthetic field is not realistic. Why? We are a rapidly growing field with constant new advancements. However, I can promise one thing, my forever goal is to be your lighthouse of knowledge for skincare, facial injectables, complications, techniques and many more to be continued. So how can you strive be the best? With continuing education so if you think you’ve learned it all, you are WRONG!” Let me share with you why this is important. I’m proud to announce that at The Confidence Lab I have participated in 84 training sessions involving customized, group, and advanced trainings. Before each training session I review educational content such as a Patreon, an aesthetic podcast, or a journal article to ensure I am always bringing the newest and most up to date information to peers choosing The Confidence Lab for training. I have six years of experience in the field and each day I know there is an opportunity to learn more. Remember, BE A SPONGE and absorb the education around you! The Confidence Bar and myself look forward to seeing fellow peers in September at the Canadian Aesthetics Expo. How exciting to meet with like-minded providers who want to learn unceasingly and bring the best back to their own practice. Your incredible aesthetic journey is based off the success of being eager to learn. Where should we plan on going next? To book Cristina for an Customized One-on-One Advanced Full Day Training or Full day Training Shadow with Hands On injecting , complete our Contact form or call us on 312.632.0502

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Alice Tudor, APRN Introducing Alice Tudor the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Alice took part in a Accredited Hands-On Customized Half-Day training with Cristina Herman on Mar 04, 2023. Here is the Instagram reel from the training. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I am an advanced practice registered nurse specializing in anesthesia – a CRNA. Even though I continue providing anesthesia in multiple hospitals and surgery centers all over the Chicagoland area, in 2020, I was able to open my own anesthesia company. This gave me the control over my schedule and the flexibility to focus on my passion for skincare and aesthetics. Ultimately, my own aesthetic practice, The Art of Beauty was born in 2022. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I love science and art! I incorporate my extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology from my anesthesia training with my keen eye and attention to details, shapes, forms, colors. In the field of aesthetics, I can create, mold, shape and enhance each person’s physical beauty. The artist in me was reborn and I loved it! Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? The Confidence Bar provides exceptional education in small, intimate classes. I wanted hands on training with aesthetic experts that are local to my area. I read about Rana Kenelly’s journey, her mission, her drive and I was so moved by her statement “Community over Competition”. People from across United States travel to train at the Confidence Bar. Without a doubt I knew I was acquiring the clinical skills that would make me an excellent provider. That is why I keep coming back for more advanced, customized training. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? My favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics is supporting entrepreneurial forward women achieve their goals. I am a problem solver. I believe there is always a solution for every obstacle or roadblock. Peer Aesthetics bridges the gap in your aesthetic journey from the period of basic training to either owning your own practice or having enough experience to be employed at a reputable med spa. Train at the Confidence Bar and come work at Peer Aesthetics! What are you doing now? I am currently the owner of my own medical aesthetic practice, The Art of Beauty, and co-owner of Peer Aesthetics. I wanted to take Rana Kennelly’s phrase “Community over Competition” and turn it into reality. This is how Peer Aesthetics was born and is opening this summer. It is a co-working space where injectors can safely practice and build their business in a supportive environment. Different tiers of membership packages will be offered, from memberships supporting new injectors breaking into the aesthetic industry and building their clientele, to memberships for seasoned injectors looking for mentorship on expanding their business. I eliminated the three most significant barriers in this industry: not having a medical director, not having the financial funds to start your own practice, not having enough experience to be hired in a medspa. Fully furnished treatment rooms can be rented hourly, daily or monthly. Mentorship in branding, marketing, legal compliance, taxes and much more is available. Above all else, members will have the ability to network with various people in the beauty industry such as make-up artists, hair stylists, nail artists, medical licensed aestheticians, laser technicians and other professionals. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Find your niche! What will make you stand out as an aesthetic provider? Have a clear vision of what is your end goal in aesthetics and map up a plan how you will get there. Above all fight for your dreams! You will hear a lot of NO before you hear that ultimate YES.

Allow us to introduce Lamija, a vital member of The Confidence Lab's education team. Lamija brings a wealth of expertise as a board-certified Physician Associate (PA) since 2009, transitioning from a hospital setting to medical aesthetics. Lamija's journey to America as a refugee from Bosnia adds a unique and valuable perspective to her work. Her personal experience fosters resilience, empathy, and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds. Lamija has a nurturing nature in all her interactions with her patients and peers. She approaches every individual with kindness, patience while creating a safe place to listen and be heard. We adore you Lamija. In Lamijas own words ... I am a person who likes to please others and fullfill their needs if at all in my power. Although that seems like a great quality in an individual, it can be a burden if you find you have this attribute. I name this quality “true kindness,” you know the one that comes from every fiber of your being. To those who know me, I am the “I am sorry” poster child. The “I am sorry” is not an apology but a statement of understanding and respect. I remember the day my childhood abruptly ended and my eyes opened to “the real” world- the one with pain, sadness and hate. I still consider my self a refugee of war, having spent years looking for safety and a forever home until finding it in the US. I have no resentments or hate for the world and the circumstances which robbed me of my childhood. Instead, I became more understanding, empathetic and considerate of others. I call it my 6th sense. I believe that pain, loss and shock has made me more instinctive and sensitive to the feelings of others. Aesthetic industry is one of those fields in which the provider is not just technically great at performing procedures, but able to discern a patient’s want and need and the driving power behind it. Although I really enjoy injecting and providing safe and effective treatments, what I value the most is the patient-provider interaction. My goal is to not only listen but truly hear the person across from me and to build a mutually trusting relationship. Person to person interaction is not just a transaction, it is a key component of your being and the smallest considerate and kind act can significantly affect one’s life trajectory. Haven’t you had a bad day which suddenly got better just by someone listening or saying something that resonated with you and that slapped you out of the bad day”funk? The only time I get angry is when I see an opportunity for giving kindness missed by others. Sadly, often by choice. To all who cross my path, I promise I am present and I hear you. Thank you for allowing me in and trusting me. “Kindness is loaning someone your strength, instead of reminding them of their weaknesses” - Andy Stanley

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Mary Ligad, APRN, CRNA Introducing Mary Ligad as the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Mary took part in a Customized Hands-Training Course Mar 03 2023 with Cristina. Here is an Instagram reel from the training What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I am a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist (CRNA). I've been a critical care nurse since 2009 and worked at Duke Hospital in Durham NC. I decided to pursue my masters in anesthesia. I've worked in the operating room & labor and delivery for 5 years as a CRNA. I still give anesthesia 2 days a week. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? What inspired me to do aesthetics? Oh goodness... Covid, Honestly - haha! But really though, all jokes aside, after working through the height of the pandemic (while pregnant with my son) giving anesthesia to and putting breathing tubes into covid positive patients, I thought briefly, "What the heck am i doing!?" I really had no idea that I would be able to pursue anything outside of giving anesthesia as an ARNP. After seeing a couple of my friends pursue it, I thought, 'If they can do it as CRNAs, why can't I? I've always been really passionate about aesthetics and skin care and the science behind different products and how each of the toxins and fillers work. So, I did my research for the state I live in, and got good training under my belt! I also spent a lot of time in the OR working with different plastic surgeons asking questions and currently work weekly with an oculoplastic surgeon giving anesthesia to patients in his office. I think I realized that I would be able to help people in a different way outside of the OR. That really excited me and pushed me to pursue aesthetics. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? Honestly, I had just come off of a refresher tox training, and was looking for a filler specific training. I was struggling to find one and through a google search, I saw the confidence lab! I saw Rana's name mentioned, and quickly realized that she was one of the names mentioned in the tox training I had just gone to as one of the best injectors/ businesses to follow! After stalking the confidence bar instagram, I saw how high caliber everyone was there. I thought to myself, " I want to be the best I can be at this new skill i've acquired, why would I not train with the best people to help me achieve my goals?" I was wary at first, thinking I wasn't good enough to be there or to be doing a customized training like I did. After I got to the confidence lab and met everyone, I felt immediately like family and my nerves melted away. I came out of training with SO much more confidence than I have in any training I've done. Best decision I made for myself for sure. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? My favorite thing about working in aesthetics is educating patients! Really, that's my favorite thing about nursing, educating and debunking myths. I love teaching people about what neurotoxins and fillers do and how each can help them in different ways and how they can work harmoniously together. I'm a science nerd and love to know the whys and hows of things, so I think that really helps me educate people well. What are you doing now? I'm working as an aesthetic injector at a medspa with the oculoplastic surgeon that I work with weekly. We're just opening up and getting started, but I'm really excited about it! What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? JUST DO IT! Don't be afraid to pursue something that could potentially fill your cup and overflow it. I was really really afraid at first and unsure of myself. I am so glad I just put myself out there and was afforded the opportunity that I was. Whether you own your own aesthetics practice or work at a medspa, I think the opportunities for growth and learning are endless! Plus, it's awesome to get to help people in a different way outside of the hospital or clinic.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Velma Borchard, MSN, FNP-BC Introducing Velma Borchard the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Velma taken in couple trainings in The Confidence Lab including a Customized Hands-On Training with Cristina on Jul 22 2022. She has also been a member of Rana Patreon for over 2 years. Here is a link to Velma reel which captures her training at The Confidence Lab. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I’ve been a family nurse practitioner focusing in pediatric medicine for nearly 23 years in Corpus Christi, Texas. Prior to becoming a medical provider, I was a RN in Med-Surg care and Emergency Room. I’ve been in the nursing field for 29 years. When putting the math to paper, it sure does seem like a long time; but when you love what you do, it does not “feel” like it! What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? This may seem like a cliché, but I’ve had a dream. I didn’t realize it until an old childhood friend said that my “dream came true” as I am doing medical cosmetic procedures. When I was young, my friends and I would play with my mother’s makeup and pretend that we were “artists”. The phone would ring, and they would answer, “hello, Lighthouse Cosmetics”! I had wanted to be in an industry like this, but my mother felt like it was not an industry that would support a family. My mom is Korean (see photo just above) and with that culture and ideology comes a grind and a future with success. Long story short…pre-med turned into a nursing career as time seemed burdensome for me. As I matured, I became a consumer of aesthetic procedures such as Botox. Quite honestly, I did not know that there was a nursing career to be had in the aesthetic industry. Then again, I was dealing with breastfeeding consultations, developmental milestones, and treating acute illnesses…the polar opposite of the life span to notice a need until I look into the mirror on occasion and notice changes in my face. When I would see my derm for my skin, I would always think that I would love to learn how to inject or do procedures that would help others with similar needs. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? When you’re new to anything, you are going to do some research (you should at least)! There are all kinds of glam and lux in this industry along with beautiful (sometimes overdone) faces that I felt that I didn’t belong. I didn’t fit the narrative. I actually found Rana on Youtube. I stalked her because she attracted me with her knowledge, soft-spoken voice, gentle hands, her method of teaching was easy to understand, and she looked normal and “down-to-earth”. She has such a great outlook on life! I needed to meet her one day! My goal was to be trained by her. I followed her on IG and sent her a message. I was so touched that she made time to respond to me. I’ve been to the Confidence Lab twice for training and have no problem returning for featured guests on my bucket list. I’ve been a Patreon member of Rana’s since I started two years ago which is anther great educational platform. I have trained with Cristina, Angie, and Abby. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? In my years of practice, I have heard all types of verbal negativity when it comes to parenting and effects on children and adolescents. Bullying is a hot topic and it does not just come from a classroom situation…it’s found at home. Growing up, in school, I had been bullied because of my Asian eyes. I’m empathic to this. When you have a college student come to see you because she wants lips, she tells me a story that her dad used to tease her and ask, “why don’t you have an upper lip”. If I can help heal her from this, I surely am going to try! I love all things aesthetic…art, interior design and nature. My favorite aspect of working in this field of aesthetics is “healing”. As a medical provider, yes it is rewarding when you heal someone’s pain, help them to recover from illness, or improve a family situation; BUT aesthetics, it is like healing to the nth degree. The parallel of pediatrics and aesthetics is that in peds, we treat all “walks of life”… and it is my philosophy that in treating aesthetic patients, “everyone is deserving”. During the reveal, it gives me great satisfaction and joy to see confidence concrete or someone pain-free in my chair as the patient feels restored, seen, and heard! What are you doing now? I am still working as a pediatric provider and currently have some space in our office that I provide aesthetic care for adult patients called Borchard Aesthetics: an aesthetic boutique offering injectable services, PDO smooth threads, microneedling, microchanneling, PRP/PRPM, hair restoration, Alastin Skincare line, and I use the Clarius ultrasound for assessment. My business philosophies are education, safety, natural beauty, and great outcomes. Summer 2023, I plan to occupy a business space within our building and have been working with a contractor to have my “own” area dedicated to aesthetics only. I am a “one-man-band” at this point. Life is a marathon and not a sprint! I’ve learned to be patient as everything happens for a reason! I continue to take private trainings for proficiency. My first training experience this year was with Nicola Lowrey in San Antonio. I am just blessed that where I am in my career that I can continue to learn especially in a different type of medical industry; more importantly, that whatever I’m doing brings me much fulfillment and joy. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Get your ducks in row! Logically build a foundation of safe practice. Just as we were taught in our nursing careers, “CPR/ACLS before hitting the floor”. Have an aesthetic crash cart ready and know how to manage adverse events before anything! Know what you are going to need for this scenario and have them in place before you launch. Look into the best trainings for your budget and your goals, be patient, give yourself grace, offer a hand (community over competition), run your race and stay in your lane, and never stop learning. Keep watering the seeds of knowledge so that you can continue to grow in this field!