Podcast Summary: "Be Nice" | The blondEST with Savanna Boda and Tyler Jacoby

Episode Information:

• Title: Be Nice
• Release Date: November 25, 2024
• Host: Savanna Boda
• Co-Host: Tyler Jacoby

Introduction: Addressing Bullying in the Aesthetics Industry

In the "Be Nice" episode of The blondEST, host Savanna Boda and co-host Tyler Jacoby delve deep into the pervasive issue of bullying within the medical aesthetics industry. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, the duo explores how negativity and harassment can impact careers, particularly in a field heavily reliant on social media presence and personal branding.

The Reality of Bullying and Its Impact

Savanna opens the conversation by highlighting her ongoing battle with bullying, especially from individuals within her own industry. She shares her anticipation for an upcoming speaking engagement in Dallas, where she'll address how bullying has continually affected her career and daily life.

[00:55] Savanna: "Stop being a bully. This industry, man. ... It's affected a lot of my career, and I deal with it every single day."

She recounts a specific incident where a follower sent her a malicious direct message (DM), which was initially positive but turned hostile. This unexpected shift left her confused and hurt, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of online interactions.

[04:06] Savanna: "Like, I literally hate her. ... someone sends me a DM that's meant to be sent to their friend to talk shit about me."

Tyler echoes Savanna's sentiments, underscoring the challenges they face in maintaining professionalism while navigating the often-toxic landscape of social media.

Navigating Social Media: Authenticity vs. Professionalism

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the delicate balance between being authentic on social platforms and maintaining a professional image. Savanna expresses the dilemma many influencers face: being "PC" (politically correct) can come off as fake, while showing one's true self risks being perceived as unprofessional.

[02:09] Savanna: "It's so hard sometimes being on social media because everyone, like, if you show up all PC, then you're, like, fake. And then if you, like, show your true self, then you're, like, unprofessional."

They discuss the stigmas attached to showing vulnerability or personal opinions online, leading many to either hide their true selves or risk backlash.

Dealing with Negative Feedback and Online Harassment

Savanna delves into her strategy for handling negative comments and harassment. She emphasizes the importance of letting negativity roll off her back and focusing on constructive interactions. However, she admits that certain instances, especially those involving personal attacks, are harder to ignore.

[10:00] Savanna: "I don't bite. I bark back. ... but now I look back at it and I still, like, see like, young Savannah's side of it."

Tyler supports this approach, pointing out the hypocrisy of those who criticize Savanna for negativity when their own actions are equally detrimental.

[16:42] Tyler: "We can get into this. But ... Everything that they're like, all their actions are what's really being a mean girl."

The Influence of Being an Industry Leader

As a prominent figure with a substantial following, Savanna acknowledges the responsibility that comes with her influence. She discusses how her recommendations and business practices are scrutinized, leading to misunderstandings and unwarranted criticism.

[24:02] Savanna: "I'm not double dipping. I'm not having someone use three different vitamin C is like."

Tyler adds that despite the challenges, being an influencer allows them to guide others in the industry effectively, ensuring clients receive quality care and information.

[25:33] Tyler: "We show them what their regimen is. ... and that's what I'm gonna see on long term."

Reflecting on Personal Growth and Accountability

Towards the end of the episode, Savanna reflects on her past actions and behaviors, acknowledging mistakes made during her early career. She discusses how personal growth, motherhood, and increased self-awareness have transformed her approach to both business and interpersonal relationships.

[33:31] Savanna: "I was an infant. That's all I had. ... if I could go back, I would."

Tyler reinforces the message of accountability, highlighting the positive changes both hosts have implemented to foster a more supportive and respectful industry environment.

[35:10] Tyler: "And I'm sure that 90 of you here are the besties, and we love you guys."

Conclusion: Emphasizing Kindness and Professionalism

Concluding the episode, Savanna and Tyler urge listeners to cultivate kindness and focus on personal and professional growth rather than succumbing to negativity. They stress that fostering a positive community not only benefits individual careers but also elevates the entire aesthetics industry.

[36:28] Tyler: "Just be nice, work hard, do right by your clients. ... mind your business."

[37:38] Savanna: "Just be nice. ... And, like, it's time to change."

Key Takeaways:

• Bullying is a Persistent Issue: Even within supportive industries, negativity can severely impact personal and professional growth.
• Balance Authenticity with Professionalism: Influencers must navigate the fine line between being genuine and maintaining a credible image.
• Handle Negativity Gracefully: Letting negative comments roll off while addressing genuine concerns can mitigate the impact of online harassment.
• Responsibility of Influence: With a large following comes the duty to set positive examples and guide others ethically.
• Personal Growth is Crucial: Reflecting on past mistakes and striving for continuous improvement can transform both individual lives and industry standards.
• Promote Kindness and Support: Building a respectful and uplifting community benefits everyone involved.

Notable Quotes:

• Savanna at [00:55]: "Stop being a bully. This industry, man. ... It's affected a lot of my career, and I deal with it every single day."
• Savanna at [02:09]: "It's so hard sometimes being on social media because everyone, like, if you show up all PC, then you're, like, fake."
• Savanna at [24:02]: "I'm not double dipping. I'm not having someone use three different vitamin C is like."
• Tyler at [35:10]: "And I'm sure that 90 of you here are the besties, and we love you guys."
• Tyler at [36:28]: "Just be nice, work hard, do right by your clients. ... mind your business."
• Savanna at [37:38]: "Just be nice. ... And, like, it's time to change."

This episode serves as a candid exploration of the challenges faced by influencers in the medical aesthetics field, offering valuable lessons on resilience, accountability, and the importance of fostering a positive professional environment.