Fat Mascara Episode Summary: "How to Think Positive with Beauty Pioneer Victoria Jackson"

Release Date: April 25, 2025

In this compelling episode of Fat Mascara, hosts Jennifer Sullivan and Jessica Matlin engage in an inspiring conversation with Victoria Jackson, a trailblazer in both the beauty and medical fields. Victoria's multifaceted journey—from founding Victoria Jackson Cosmetics in the 1980s to establishing the Guthy Jackson Charitable Foundation after her daughter's diagnosis—provides a profound narrative on resilience, innovation, and the power of positive thinking.

1. Introduction to Victoria Jackson

The episode begins with Jen Sullivan introducing Victoria Jackson, highlighting her impressive accolades and diverse career path. Victoria is renowned for pioneering the "no makeup makeup" philosophy and is celebrated as a cosmetics innovator and a medical trailblazer. Jen notes Victoria's induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame and her significant contributions through her latest book, We All Worry.

Jen Sullivan [05:17]: “From Mascara to Medicine. I always say, how many M's am I in a day? Like, mascara, medicine, music, marriage maintenance, music.”

2. Early Career and Innovation in Beauty

Victoria shares her humble beginnings as a makeup artist who lacked formal training but possessed a visionary approach to beauty. Determined to create a natural look, she taught herself the intricacies of makeup artistry, focusing on enhancing natural beauty rather than the extravagant styles prevalent in the 1980s.

Victoria Jackson [06:03]: “People think, oh, it's just a gift that you have. And I'm like, no, no, not really. I had to teach myself to be ultimately a very good makeup artist in the no makeup makeup sort of genre.”

Her dedication led her to develop her own foundation in her garage, addressing the lack of neutral shades available in the market. This innovation laid the foundation for her successful cosmetics line, which resonated with consumers seeking authenticity.

3. Transition to Medicine and Overcoming Personal Challenges

A pivotal moment in Victoria's life was her daughter's diagnosis with neuromyelitis optica, a rare autoimmune disease. This life-altering event prompted Victoria to shift her focus from cosmetics to medicine, where she co-founded the Guthy Jackson Charitable Foundation. Her commitment to medical research led her to establish a blood bank, significantly contributing to autoimmune disease research.

Victoria Jackson [19:00]: “I literally just left the book on makeup and I went into the world of medicine... It was about curing disease, autoimmune disease.”

Victoria candidly discusses the emotional and logistical challenges of this transition, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

4. Return to the Beauty Industry with Enhanced Authenticity

After 17 years in the medical field, Victoria returned to the beauty industry with a renewed focus on clean and authentic products. Her latest venture, no Makeup Makeup, reflects contemporary beauty standards that prioritize natural looks and ethical practices.

Victoria Jackson [38:13]: “I woke up and I'm like, what? This is how people are selling. Wait, what? Tutorials, Instagram influencers. Like, what is.”

She successfully navigates the modern beauty landscape dominated by social media and influencer culture, leveraging platforms like QVC to re-establish her brand. Her products continue to emphasize authenticity, quality, and customer satisfaction.

5. Authenticity and the Modern Beauty Landscape

Victoria emphasizes the enduring importance of authenticity in beauty products. She believes that consumers are increasingly seeking genuine and high-quality products that align with their values.

Victoria Jackson [39:49]: “I think people want authenticity. They certainly listen. It is always gonna be. Product is king at the end of the day.”

Her approach challenges the transient trends of the beauty industry, advocating for products that empower individuals to embrace their natural selves.

6. Personal Resilience and Positive Thinking

A recurring theme in Victoria's narrative is her unwavering positive outlook and ability to thrive despite numerous challenges. She attributes her resilience to living in a constant state of "survival mode" and later "thrival mode," focusing on personal growth and supporting others.

Victoria Jackson [17:43]: “I literally am always in survival mode... I just keep going, keep going.”

Victoria discusses strategies for maintaining positivity, such as visualization and surrounding herself with supportive friends. She also touches on overcoming fears, illustrated by her long-standing fear of flying and her eventual triumph over it with the help of friends.

7. Personal Life and Anecdotes

Victoria offers glimpses into her personal life, balancing her professional endeavors with hobbies and personal interests. She enjoys spending time at her ranch, nurturing her horses, and engaging in creative projects like opening a bookstore.

Victoria Jackson [51:15]: “She's doing well and her story in detail is hers to tell. She actually just started... She's my hero.”

These anecdotes underscore her multifaceted personality and her passion for continuous learning and growth.

8. Victoria's Books and Contributions

Victoria has authored multiple books that serve as blueprints for redefining beauty and navigating life's challenges. Her works include:

• Makeup Your Life: A guide intertwining beauty with personal development.
• Allie and I: A memoir highlighting her relationship with her daughter.
• Story of My Life: A reflection on overcoming adversity.
• We All Worry: Insights on managing anxiety and maintaining positivity.

These publications encapsulate her life's journey and her commitment to empowering others.

9. Speed Round Highlights

In the concluding speed round, Victoria shares personal preferences and light-hearted insights:

• First Makeup Product Fell in Love With: Yardley Black Eyeliner inspired by Jean Shrimpton.

  Victoria Jackson [48:43]: “It was the Yardley black eyeliner... like the British. It was the sort of the cool biba.”

• Favorite Snack: Chewy, gooey candy.

  Victoria Jackson [50:37]: “I love candy. I'm a sugar addict.”

• Ideal Day Off Activity: Spending time at her ranch, enjoying nature and her avocado trees.

  Victoria Jackson [50:51]: “I would go get a massage. I would go walk around... eating guacamole.”

• Best Advice Ever Given: Her mother's encouragement to “wash your face and put on some makeup and just get out there.”

  Victoria Jackson [52:26]: “Just wash your face with my little soap and I put on my makeup and I just go out there and do it.”

10. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Victoria concludes the interview by reiterating the importance of authenticity and believing in one's products. She expresses excitement about future product launches and her ongoing commitment to both the beauty and medical communities.

Victoria Jackson [43:46]: “It's clean. It's a clean version... I'm not ready to talk about it yet, but I've got some very new things coming out that will be toward the end of the year.”

Jen Sullivan and Jessica Matlin thank Victoria for her time, reflecting on her inspiring journey and the valuable lessons shared during the conversation.

Notable Quotes

• Victoria Jackson [06:03]: “People think, oh, it's just a gift that you have. And I'm like, no, no, not really. I had to teach myself to be ultimately a very good makeup artist in the no makeup makeup sort of genre.”

• Victoria Jackson [17:43]: “I literally am always in survival mode... I just keep going, keep going.”

• Victoria Jackson [39:49]: “I think people want authenticity. They certainly listen. It is always gonna be. Product is king at the end of the day.”

• Victoria Jackson [43:46]: “It's clean. It's a clean version... I'm not ready to talk about it yet, but I've got some very new things coming out that will be toward the end of the year.”

Conclusion

Victoria Jackson's journey encapsulates a remarkable blend of creativity, resilience, and unwavering positivity. Her ability to navigate and excel in both the beauty and medical industries serves as a testament to her indomitable spirit and dedication to empowering others. This episode of Fat Mascara not only highlights her professional achievements but also offers invaluable insights into maintaining a positive mindset amidst life's challenges.