
MECCA Talks
Introducing MECCA Talks, an access all areas pass to the beauty, business, and lifestyle experts we call our community. Made by Australia’s biggest beauty retailer—and hosted by MECCA’s chief marketing officer, Kate Blythe—this podcast goes beyond what you see in our 100+ stores, on social media, and on The MECCA Memo to swing open the doors to the global beauty industry, and to our network of friends, founders, and collaborators. Expect conversations with brand founders, industry experts, and our own in-house specialists; deep dives into the history of iconic beauty formulations; and advice for life from our most trusted friends. Hit play! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Jul 10, 2024 • 23min
The Mini: Brat Beauty and In-Flight Masking
In this conversation our Head of Content, Tara, and Editorial Content Manager, Kerri, chat about their travel beauty essentials, their obsession with ‘Brat Girl Summer’ and the makeup products they just can’t get enough of.The Mini Must-Haves: What we’re obsessed with:Rituel de Fille Celestial Sphere Gelée Eye GlossWestman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick What we’ve rediscovered: Kate Sommerville DeliKate® Recovery Cream Stressed Skin ReliefNARS Laguna Bronzing CreamWhat is on our wishlist:Dr Lara Devgan Platinum Long Lash SerumGlossier You Solid PerfumeProducts Mentioned:Tatcha The Kissu Lip MaskCharlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish PowderHourglass Ambient Lighting Infinity Powder111Skin Rose Gold Facial Treatment MaskCharlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Hydrating Foundation StickMECCA COSMETICATo Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun SerumDr. Barbara Sturm Lip Balm Augustinus Bader The Lip BalmHosts: Tara Lamont-Djite and Kerri GordonProducer/Editor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 4, 2024 • 30min
Dr. Lara Devgan on Life as a Plastic Surgeon in NYC
In today’s episode, we’re in the studio with Dr Lara Devgan, US board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Dr. Lara Devgan skincare.After opening her own practice on New York’s Upper East Side – and quickly becoming one of the city’s most sought-after aesthetic specialists – Dr Lara added ‘CEO’ to her already impressive resume when she founded her science-focused brand.With an enviable A-list fanbase including Kim Kardashian, Bella Hadid and Jennifer Aniston, her eponymous line distils her clinical expertise, seamlessly blending science with luxury.Now, the surgeon, entrepreneur and mother of six joins MECCA Talks to celebrate the launch of Dr. Lara Devgan skincare at MECCA and tell us all about her incredible career – plus, of course, her skin secrets! Products mentioned:Dr. Lara Devgan Hyaluronic SerumDr. Lara Devgan Vitamin CBE Ferulic SerumDr. Lara Devgan Platinum Long Lash SerumDr. Lara Devgan Platinum Lip PlumpHost: Kate BlytheGuest: Dr. Lara DevganProducer/Editor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 26, 2024 • 14min
Urban Decay’s ‘Naked’ Palette Started a Revolution
In today’s episode, Kate is in the studio with Urban Decay’s Head of Global Artistry and celebrity makeup artist, Steve Kassajikian. In this short but sweet conversation, they discuss the history of this iconic brand, the legacy of Naked Palettes, his ultimate beauty muses and why everyone needs to try the 24/7 Moondust Eyeshadow in ‘Space Cowboy’. Plus, Steve shares his top tips for levelling up your makeup.Products mentioned in this episode: Urban Decay Naked 3 Eyeshadow PaletteUrban Decay 24/7 Moondust EyeshadowUrban Decay Stay Naked Quickie ConcealerUrban Decay Original Eyeshadow Primer PotionUrban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye PencilUrban Decay All Nighter Glow PrimerGlow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra Fine MistHost: Kate BlytheGuest: Steve KassajikianProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 20, 2024 • 23min
The Mini: our new series, winter skin and Glossier goss
Welcome to MECCA Talks: The Mini, our new sample-sized podcast reporting on the biggest things in beauty right now.Tune into each episode as our Head of Content, Tara Lamont-Djite, and Editorial Content Manager, Kerri Gordon, dissect the latest beauty news making the rounds at MECCA HQ. Think: emerging trends, under-the-radar products and the new brands about to change the beauty game.In this candid conversation, Tara and Kerri chat about the Glossier products they're most excited for (have your wishlist ready for 16 July when it lands at MECCA!), their thoughts on the viral ‘Boyfriend Blush’ trend, and the winter skin essentials they’re obsessed with.The Mini Must-Haves: What we’re obsessed with:La Bonne Brosse N.02 The Essential BrushAct+Acre Cold Processed® Stem Cell Scalp SerumWhat we’ve rediscovered: Augustinus Bader The Rich CreamEmma Lewisham Supernatural Blemish Face SerumWhat is on our wishlist:Westman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick & Chantecaille Pure RosewaterWestman Atelier Face Trace Contour StickProducts Mentioned:Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Colour Correcting TreatmentDr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum TonerWestman Atelier Baby Cheeks BlushOmorovicza Queen of Hungary MistCosmetics 27 Baume 27 Advanced FormulaEmma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème RicheEmma Lewisham Supernatural Face OilINTU WELLNESS Sleep & Skin Renewal PowderThe Beauty Chef Antioxidant Inner Beauty BoostHosts: Tara Lamont-Djite and Kerri GordonProducer/Editor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past and present. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 6, 2024 • 26min
The “Real Deal” Beauty We Love
Welcome back to MECCA Talks, your access-all-areas pass to the beauty, business and lifestyle experts we call our community.In today’s episode, Kate is handing over the hosting mic to MECCA’s Head of Fabulosity, Tony Baumann, and Makeup Education Manager, Hannah Daniel, to talk through the best of the best in beauty.In this conversation, our self-proclaimed “beauty nerds” take you behind the curtain, discussing how beauty icons are made and how the industry is evolving. Plus, they reveal the MECCA must-haves they can’t live without!Products mentioned in this episode:ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion StickVIOLETTE_FR Yeux Paint Twinkling NARS Sheer Glow FoundationKosas Revealer ConcealerWestman Baby Cheeks BlushViolette_FR Bisou BlushStila One Step CorrectSol de Janiero Bum Bum CreamDrunk Elephant D-Bronzi™ Anti-Pollution Sunshine DropsHosts: Kate Blythe, Tony Baumann and Hannah DanielProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 22, 2024 • 42min
Elise Loehnen pioneered 'wellness'; now, she's dismantling it
In today’s episode of MECCA Talks, Kate Blythe is joined in the studio by Elise Loehnen. Elise is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Editor, Podcast Host and the former Chief Content Officer for GOOP (you might recognise her from their podcast or Netflix series).From serums to psychedelics, juices and drips, Elise has explored every corner of the wellness industry, but now she’s redefining the concept of wellness to ‘wholeness’ - through historical, traditional and cultural research and critique.In this conversation, they discuss wellness culture, Elise’s journey to wholeness, and her book, On Our Best Behaviour.Host: Kate BlytheProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Ruby DevlinLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 2024 • 42min
Professor Augustinus Bader and Charles Rosier, LIVE at MECCA George Street
In today’s episode of MECCA Talks – recorded live and in front of a studio audience at MECCA George Street – Kate is joined by Professor Augustinus Bader and Charles Rosier, Co-Founders and CEO, respectively, of the brand responsible for Hollywood’s picture perfect complexions, Augustinus Bader.A globally recognized biomedical scientist and physician, and leading expert in the field of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, Professor Bader co-founded the line of “too good to be true” formulas with CEO Charles Rosier, an entrepreneurial, science-minded investor who put everything on the line – his home, his savings, and his reputation – to bring the Augustinus Bader brand to life, and fuel Professor Bader’s greater work in skin, science and epigenetics.The two go deep into the science of the brand – including the process of transforming Professor Bader’s astonishing medical breakthroughs in wound healing into a revolutionary skin-healing cream that appealed to the masses – and talk about how, with no marketing or PR, their products got into the hands of Don Johnson, Melanie Griffiths, Brad Pitt and Courtney Cox.Watch the conversation, filmed live at MECCA George Street, on the MECCA Memo.Shop Augustinus Bader's cult skincare - from Hollywood's favourite, The Rich Cream, to the brand's newest launch, The Retinol Serum, at MECCA.Host: Kate BlytheGuests: Professor Augustinus Bader and Charles RosierProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Michael LiberaleLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, 2024 • 27min
Dr. Barbara Sturm’s ‘vampire’ facial changed the face of Hollywood
In today’s episode, Kate is joined by the legendary Dr. Barbara Sturm, whose eponymous skincare brand supercharged celebrity-status skincare into the mainstream.Recorded in the service suites of Dr. Sturm’s London spa and boutique, this exclusive conversation covers Dr. Sturm’s journey from orthopaedics to skincare, the creation of the famous ‘vampire’ facial and ‘blood’ cream – also known as MC1 Cream – and how word got out around Hollywood about her game- (or shall we say skin-) changing brand. Hit play!Can't make it to Dr. Sturm's London clinic? Experience an exclusive Dr. Barbara Sturm facial at MECCA Aesthetica. For more information, click here.Products mentioned in this episode: Dr. Barbara Sturm Face CreamDr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream RichDr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic SerumDr. Barbara Sturm Glow DropsDr. Barbara Sturm Exoso-Metic Face Serum Dr. Barbara Sturm Deep Hydrating Face MaskHost: Kate BlytheGuest: Dr. Barbara SturmProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Michael Liberale Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!). MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 2023 • 31min
Bethan Laura Wood is bringing kaleidoscopic colour to the NGV Triennial
In today’s episode, Kate is in the studio with celebrated multidisciplinary designer and recipient of the 2023 MECCA x NGV Women in Design Commission, Bethan Laura Wood.The MECCA x NGV Women in Design Commission is a major series inviting internationally renowned female designers and architects to create a significant new work for the NGV Collection. Bethan’s radical approach to materiality, colour and pattern through furniture, objects and installations has garnered a cult following, and presence in galleries and museums across the world, including The Art Institute of Chicago, San Francisco’s MOMA and the Victoria and Albert Museum.Bethan’s piece, Kaleidoscope-O-Rama, was revealed last week as part of the NGV’s Triennial Exhibition, and is on display now until April 2024 at the NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, with free entry. Further information is available via the NGV website.Learn more on MECCA MEMO:WATCH: In The Chair with Bethan Laura WoodMeet the 2023 MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission ArtistHost: Kate BlytheGuest: Bethan Laura WoodProducer: Kerri GordonEditor: Michael LiberaleLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2023 • 32min
D.S. & DURGA are leading a fragrance revolution
In today’s episode, Kate is in New York visiting the Brooklyn HQ of Kavi and David Moltz, the creative brains (and noses) behind non-traditional fragrance house, D.S. & Durga. David, a musician and self-taught perfumer, alongside Kavi, an architect and designer, work together approaching scent like music or art – breaking the boundaries of the very exclusive, illusive and traditional fragrance industry while they’re at it. Over a cup of fresh-brewed tea (David’s other great passion), they spill the story of how their unexpected fragrances are imagined, why they were onto the viral ‘pistachio’ scent three years before anyone else and how, when it comes to your brand, saying no can be more important than saying yes. Read more on MECCA MEMO:Pistachio is the ‘it’ fragrance note of 2023: here’s whyProducts mentioned in this episode:D.S.& Durga Pistachio EDP D.S.& Durga I Don’t Know What EDPD.S.& Durga Cowboy Grass EDPD.S. & Durga Rose Atlantic EDP D.S. & Durga Debaser EDP D.S & Durga Rockaway Beach EDP D.S. & Durga Durga EDP D.S. & Durga St. VetyverD.S.& Durga Candles D.S. & Durga 85 Diesel CandleD.S. & Durga Radio Bombay EDP Host: Kate BlytheGuests: Kavi and David MoltzProducer: Kerri GordonEditors: Romy Erdos and Michael LiberaleLoved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat!).MECCA Talks wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this episode at our studio in Naarm: the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. We pay respect to Elders – past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to this beautiful country, with knowledge and stories that have been handed down since time immemorial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.