
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

Apr 6, 2022 • 45min
The classic red lip: let's talk about it
In this episode, MECCA makeup expert Jen Horsley discusses the iconic red lip and shares her top picks for the perfect crimson pout. New York-based artist and poet Amber Vittoria joins to talk about designing MECCA's new visual identity and staying inspired through the pandemic. They also delve into their love for nature, favorite beauty products, and the challenges of wearing red lipstick with masks.

Mar 23, 2022 • 1h 9min
Why your microbiome is the next big thing in skin
Pre, pro and post-biotic extracts are increasingly appearing on the ingredient lists of new skincare formulas, so we’ve got MECCA skincare expert Lucy Shaw and Cultured founder Rob Calcraft on the podcast to tell us why.First, Lucy gives us the lingo low-down on all things microbiome; she explains what the term ‘skin barrier’ actually means, how the probiotics in our skincare differ to those in our yoghurt, and why we should start thinking about our skin as an ‘ecosystem’.Then, Rob – who also co-founded REN Clean Skincare – chats to Kate and Zara about his journey into (and out of, and back into) skincare following a new-found fixation on the microbiome, in what might be our most hilarious and scintillating conversation yet.Loved this episode? Learn something new? Got a question on the tip of your tongue? Let us know by leaving a review! Products mentioned in this episode: Cultured Biome One SerumCultured Resilience Facial OilCultured Vitality Cleansing MilkCultured Biome One Cleansing BalmJuice BeautyGallinée Body MilkRose Inc Radiant Reveal Brightening SerumCharlotte Tilbury Magic Serum Crystal ElixirCharlotte Tilbury Magic CreamSunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid TreatmentTULA 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night CreamRead more:MECCA Meets… Rob Calcraft, founder of CulturedEverything you need to know about the microbiomeThe top 5 products from microbiome skincare brand CulturedHosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Lucy Shaw, Rob CalcraftProducers: Kerri Gordon, 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). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit Chat. https://bit.ly/3mctrAI 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 9, 2022 • 1h 24min
What does the future of skincare and online shopping hold?
Dr. Dennis Gross and Stephanie Horton are on the show today to tell us!Kate and Zara are looking into the crystal ball of beauty and online shopping, with the help of skincare icon and founder Dr. Dennis Gross, and Google’s Global Consumer Marketing Director for Shopping, Stephanie Horton. After revolutionising the clinical peel and at-home skincare treatments (from his cult-favourite Alpha Beta peel pads to the Spectralite Faceware Pro LED device) Dr. Dennis Gross, of the eponymous brand, is sharing scientific intel on our favourite skincare ingredients, direct from his NYC lab. Then, Stephanie Horton jumps on the line to talk us through her glass-ceiling shattering career across marketing and eCommerce – from The New York Times to Farfetch, Alexander Wang and Google – as well as how she has overcome imposter syndrome, and now paves the way for women of colour in fashion and tech. Products mentioned in this episode: Dr. Dennis Gross Spectralite Faceware ProDr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Peel DailyDr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal Serum NuFACE Trinity DeviceChantecaille Read more: A demystifying guide to our 6 favourite skincare devices Women in Arts: Mikaela Stafford, the digital artist behind MECCA’s ‘Future Beautiful’ campaign The effect of stress on your skin and how to avoid itThe Fifteen Percent PledgeFashion Tech Connects Hosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Dr. Dennis Gross, Stephanie HortonProducers: Kerri Gordon, 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). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit 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.

Feb 23, 2022 • 30min
Your beauty FAQs, answered by MECCA's top experts!
Welcome back to MECCA Talks, your access-all-areas pass to the beauty, business, and lifestyle experts we call our community.We recently called on our MECCA Chit Chat Facebook community to hit us up with their biggest beauty questions, queries, myths and legends via voicemail, and today, we’re answering them with the help of MECCA’s education managers for skincare and makeup, Lucy Shaw and Jen Horsley.From pimples and ingrowns to full-coverage foundations and budge-proof winged liner, we’re diving in deep on the details (and the product recommendations to match)!Want your beauty questions answered on the podcast? Leave a written review with your question, or, send us a 10-30 second voice message here! Products mentioned in this episode: MECCA MAX THE BREAK-UP Blemish Busting Serum MECCA MAX SPOT DOTS Blemish Busting Patches Perricone MD Blemish Relief Targeted Spot Treatment By Terry Terrybly Densiliss Foundation NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick Stila One Step Correct By Terry Baume de Rose Charlotte Tilbury Lip Oil Mecca Cosmetica Kissable Lips Smoothing Lip Exfoliant Chantecaille Lip Chic This Works Stress Check Mood Manager Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing GelMalin+Goetz Ingrown Hair CreamSmashbox Photo Finish 24 Hour Eye Shadow PrimerShiseido MicroLiner Ink Mecca Cosmetica Weekend Skin Glow SerumHosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Jen Horsley, Lucy ShawProducers: Kerri Gordon, 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.

Feb 9, 2022 • 1h 7min
The Beyoncé of floristry, Maurice Harris, on why it's scents over red roses for Valentine's Day
Welcome back to MECCA Talks, your access-all-areas pass to the beauty, business, and lifestyle experts we call our community.Valentine’s Day is five sleeps away, and in the spirit of romance we’re talking flowers, fragrance, and “love at first sniff”.MECCA education manager for fragrance Laura Curtis is back on the podcast to talk about the most seductive, stop-you-in-the-streets scents (and how they work!), plus, she drops her top fragrance gifts for Valentine’s Day – and any other day of the year.Then, we jump on a call with Los Angeles-based ‘Beyoncé of floristry’, the ever-effervescent Maurice Harris of Bloom and Plume, to talk about his phenomenal career as a floral designer, merchandiser, artist, café owner and reality TV judge, his eye for ‘natural opulence’, and his recent collaboration with diptyque in celebration of the 10-year anniversary of Eau Rose. Hit play!Products mentioned in this episode: diptyque Eau Rose Eau de Parfum diptyque Eau Rose Eau de Toilettediptyque Roses Scented Candle diptyque Camomille Scented Candle diptyque Litchi Scented Candle Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 EDPLe Labo Santal 33 Editions de Parfums By Frédéric Malle Une Rose EDP Le Labo AnOther 13 EDP Editions de Parfums By Frédéric Malle Portrait of a Lady EDPRead more on The MECCA Memo:Friends of MECCA share their non-cliché Valentine’s Day gift picks Our failproof guide to finding the perfect fragranceYou asked, we answered: how to make your fragrance last longerHosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Laura Curtis, Maurice HarrisProducers: Kerri Gordon, 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). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit 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 26, 2022 • 1h 10min
Your sunscreen FAQs answered, and the business of SPF with Naked Sundays’ Sam Brett
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 and Zara catch up after the holiday break to get into the nitty gritty of SPF as we reach those dreaded 40C days. Sydney dermatologist Dr Shreya Andric (B. MED. SCI, MBBS (HONS), IFAAD, FACD) joins us to debunk the most common SPF myths, share her top skin safety tips and get us clued up on the ABCs – and Ds and Es – of what to look out for when detecting a potential melanoma.Then, Naked Sundays founder Sam Brett enters the chat to take us on her journey from acclaimed columnist, journalist and bestselling author to undercover sunscreen brand founder. Her greatest success to date? The near-impossible SPF50+ Hydrating Glow Mist, which saw Brett meet her year-one target in a single day.Products and brands mentioned: Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen Oxybenzone Free FormulaNaked Sundays SPF50+ Hydrating Glow MistNaked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Perfecting Priming LotionNaked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow CrèmeRose Inc Blush Divine Radiant Lip & Cheek ColorKosas Air Brow Fluff & Hold Treatment GelEllis Faas Skin Veil FoundationDr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal SerumDr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle TreatmentRead more on The MECCA Memo:MECCA meets… Sam Brett from Naked SundaysThe easiest way to reapply sunscreen without ruining your makeupWhy you should never skip SPF with Call Time On Melanoma The best facial sunscreens at MECCAWhat are Australian SPF ratings?A beginner’s guide to chemical and physical SPF Hosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Dr Shreya Andric, Sam BrettProducers: Kerri Gordon, Michael LiberaleRemember to use sunscreen wisely by always checking the label for directions, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and a chic, sun-blocking hat. Don’t forget to reapply as directed.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 15, 2021 • 27min
HOLIDAY BONUS: The beauty of Australia, vintage fashion and creativity with Jenny Kee
In our final Holiday bonus episode, Kate and Zara chat to inimitable fashion designer, creative and MECCA Collectiva tastemaker Jenny Kee in celebration of the natural beauty of the Australian landscape – and Kee’s prolific career in fashion. From selling £10 vintage Chanel to the likes of Mick Jagger in London’s swinging ‘60s to collaborating with Karl Lagerfeld, starting Flamingo Park with Linda Jackson and having her designs worn (and loved) by Diana, Princess of Wales, Kee’s anecdotes make for an episode not to be missed. With gifts that glitter, glow, sparkle and spark joy – the celebration (and gifting) starts at MECCA! Discover our guide to the most spectacular beauty gifts of the year here.Brands and products mentioned by Jenny:Le LaboCharlotte Tilbury Hot Lips 2.0 in ‘Patsy Red’ M.A.C. Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick in ‘Ruby Woo’Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless FilterMecca Cosmetica Mecca Athletica Ultra-Firming Body LotionREN Clean Skincare Vita Mineral Daily Supplement Moisturising CreamRead more on The MECCA Memo:MECCA Collectiva: Meet Jenny Kee WATCH: MECCA’s spectacular Holiday artist, Naomi Hobson, lives in colour How to pick a fragrance gift for the non-committal person in your lifeHosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuest: Jenny Kee Producers: Kerri Gordon, 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). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit 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 24, 2021 • 42min
HOLIDAY BONUS: The best beauty gifts of the year with Tony and Julia from MECCA HQ
MECCA HQ's Tony Baumann and Julia Zigan share their top beauty gift picks from iconic and limited-edition products. They discuss skincare and fragrance gift sets, unique beauty brands like Dias and Derga, the joy of gifting beauty products, and the benefits of giving gift cards for the holidays.

Nov 17, 2021 • 33min
HOLIDAY BONUS: Behind ‘The Beauty Spectacular’ with Amrita Hepi
The most spectacular time of the year is here! We’re taking you behind the scenes of Holiday 2021 at MECCA in a conversation with Amrita Hepi, an award-winning First Nations dancer and choreographer, and one of the stars of this year’s campaign, ‘The Beauty Spectacular’. With gifts that glitter, glow, sparkle and spark joy – the celebration (and gifting) starts at MECCA! Discover our guide to the most spectacular beauty gifts of the year here, and spot Amrita online and in real life on billboards, bus stops and more this festive season.Read more on The MECCA Memo:WATCH: The MECCA Beauty Spectacular is here WATCH: MECCA’s spectacular Holiday artist, Naomi Hobson, lives in colour Our limited-edition holiday collection has landed — here’s what to add to your wishlist Emerged from lockdown with a (beauty) identity crisis? Add these products to your wishlist Win at gift-giving with these limited-edition holiday sets Hosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuest: Amrita HepiProducers: Kerri Gordon, 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). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit 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.

Oct 27, 2021 • 45min
MECCA Talks Making It, with Victoria Devine
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 and Zara are back on the topic of ‘making it’, this time with financial advisor and She’s on the Money podcast host and author, Victoria Devine. Victoria takes the overwhelm out of managing your personal finances with tips and tricks that won’t leave you skimping on your morning coffee or fortnightly MECCA haul. If you’re considering investing in shares (or a new business idea!) this episode might just be the inspiration you need to get stuck in – pair that with Zoë Foster Blake’s career advice in part one of ‘Making It’, and soon enough, you’ll be on a roll.Read more on The MECCA Memo:6 tips to having it all: the serums, the shoes and the savings Zoë Foster Blake’s life advice for real lifeThoughts, advice and inspiration from our female brand founders this International Day of the Girl Hosts: Kate Blythe, Zara WongGuests: Victoria DevineProducers: Kerri Gordon, Michael LiberaleFounded by financial advisor, author and creator of Australia’s #1 finance podcast, Victoria Devine, She’s on the Money is the one-stop destination for millennials who want financial freedom (without skimping on brunch). She’s on the Money aims to empower women to make smart money decisions through relatable hacks you can implement right away. Find out more here!Loved the latest episode of MECCA Talks? Don’t forget to follow, rate and review (and give us a shoutout in the group chat). If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, leave a review, send a DM our way via our Instagram, @meccabeauty, or spark a conversation in our official Facebook group, MECCA Chit 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.