Episode Details

On today’s episode of The Skincarma Pod, host Carmine Montalto is joined by Shelley Hancock – a licensed esthetician, educator of educators, mentor, and author of Esthetic Success: A Seasoned Esthetician’s Journey

Shelley’s career didn’t follow a straight line – and it wasn’t polished in hindsight. Before finding her calling in esthetics, she moved through multiple jobs, industries, and identities, searching for work that truly fit. Along the way, she faced doubt, generational expectations, and a defining moment when her father expressed a fear that she might never find her passion.

That moment – and the many “leaps” that followed – shaped Shelley’s confidence-first philosophy. As she puts it in their conversation, “Leap even though you’re fearful.”

In this deeply human conversation, Carmine and Shelley explore:

Why confidence often comes before competence

The career detours that quietly prepare us for success

How connection, not credentials, builds lasting client relationships

The difference between knowing everything and trusting yourself

What today’s estheticians need to both learn and unlearn to build long, fulfilling careers

Shelley shares stories from her early days as a cosmetic counter associate, medical-office assistant, spa owner, and eventually an “esthetician’s esthetician,” revealing how curiosity, courage, and self-confidence shaped a decades-long career in skin health and education.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating a nonlinear career path, questioning their next step, or learning how to move forward even when fear is present.

🎧 Listen now – and discover why leaping before you feel ready might be the most powerful career move of all.

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Follow Shelley on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Shelley and her work in aesthetics, and even schedule a consultation with her, at shelleyhancock.com.

Follow Skincarma on Instagram and on TikTok. Catch product reviews of Carmine’s top picks of the best skincare on the Skincarma Blog. You can also connect with Carmine on LinkedIn here and explore his extensive work in beauty on the Carmine Montalto INK website here.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and/or leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Substack, or Spotify to help Carmine reach more curious listeners.

Product links:

Esthetic Success: A Seasoned Esthetician’s Journey

Can You Relate?: Personal Stories with Universal Messages

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