The blondEST Podcast Episode Summary: "Sunburns, Sharks & Chaos"
Host: Savanna Boda
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Podcast Description: Savanna Boda, known as The Dallas Aesthetician, blends her social media charisma with her expertise in medical aesthetics, focusing on ethical and results-driven skincare. Trained under top plastic surgeons and dermatologists in Dallas, Savanna combines holistic therapies with medical aesthetics to offer a comprehensive skincare experience. With a 99% success rate in treating acne, pigmentation, and scars, her influential Instagram following of over 300k attests to her dedication and knowledge in the field.
1. Introduction and Personal Updates
[00:00 - 05:00]
Savanna kicks off the episode with a casual update, mentioning that Tyler is unwell, but she’s embracing the opportunity to host a solo episode. She shares her recent trip to Holbotch, a destination she initially confused with "whole box," highlighting its evolving nature as a more authentic alternative to the increasingly commercialized Tulum.
Notable Quote:
"It's like a more authentic Tulum. So if anyone's been to Tulum in Mexico, it's like, very commercialized now." [02:15]
2. Nostalgia and Personal Connections to Mexico
[05:01 - 10:00]
Savanna delves into her deep-rooted connection to Mexico, recounting childhood memories spent in Cozumel and Cancun. She reflects on the cultural significance of Mexico in her life, including her parents' engagement in Cozumel, and shares humorous anecdotes about her limited Spanish proficiency despite her heritage.
Notable Quote:
"It's just like my childhood. Like, my dad really didn't take us anywhere other than Mexico because it's easy to get there, it's affordable..." [07:45]
3. Academic Struggles and Life’s Unforeseen Path
[10:01 - 15:00]
Transitioning to her high school years, Savanna candidly discusses her struggles with depression and disinterest in academics, leading to a poor GPA and ultimately dropping out to pursue aesthetic school. She emphasizes how these perceived setbacks were actually stepping stones guiding her toward her true purpose.
Notable Quote:
"In life, everything that you think is horrible and terrible in the moment... are obstacles in your way to lead you to your direct path." [12:30]
4. Holbotch Experience: From Serenity to Chaos
[15:01 - 20:00]
Savanna describes her stay in Holbotch, contrasting its peaceful, barefoot ambiance with the more polished and party-driven atmosphere of places like St. Barts. She recounts an unsettling encounter with a "naked baby on the wall" at their accommodation, leading to a room change for safety.
Notable Quote:
"We had to write, like, a whole story in Spanish for our final. And I literally wrote El Gato Blanco..." [08:30]
5. The Whale Shark Excursion: A Stressful Adventure
[20:01 - 30:00]
The centerpiece of the episode revolves around Savanna’s eight-hour whale shark boat trip. She details the physical and emotional strain of the journey, exacerbated by her existing herniated disc and the chaotic conditions on the speedboat. Savanna critiques the unethical aspects of the excursion, particularly the overcrowding and forced interaction with the whale sharks.
Notable Quotes:
"I have herniated disc in my neck and apparently in my back... So yeah, crazy." [20:45]
"If you ever listen to me about anything, do not do a whale shark excursion. It's horrible." [28:10]
6. Battle with Severe Sunburn and Skincare Mishaps
[30:01 - 45:00]
Savanna narrates a harrowing experience of severe sunburn resulting from applying chemical sunscreen on already sunburned skin, leading to a painful chemical reaction. She explains the importance of using mineral sunscreen on burnt or damaged skin to avoid exacerbating the burn.
Notable Quotes:
"I applied chemical sunscreen on a sunburn... it was just like so raw, so painful." [35:50]
"Don't use chemical sunscreens on broken or damaged skin. Because sunburns are broken and damaged skin." [40:30]
7. Lessons Learned and Skincare Recommendations
[45:01 - 55:00]
Reflecting on her ordeal, Savanna shares valuable skincare insights, stressing the significance of choosing the right sunscreen based on skin condition. She advocates for mineral sunscreens, especially for sensitive and sunburned areas, and discusses the benefits of specific products that aid in the healing process without causing further irritation.
Notable Quotes:
"I will be now rubbing sunscreen on me. If you're going to spray a sunscreen, make sure you just like rub it in..." [50:15]
"Mineral sunscreen from now on on a sunburn. And I think I'm just going to switch over to mineral sunscreen in general." [54:20]
8. Closing Thoughts and Final Reflections
[55:01 - End]
Savanna concludes the episode by summarizing her sunburn saga and reaffirming her commitment to sun safety despite her love for the ocean and beach activities. She humorously ties her sunburn experience to her responsibilities as a mother, attributing her oversight to "mom brain." The episode ends with a lighthearted note on her future skincare regimen and a promise to continue advocating for proper sun protection.
Notable Quote:
"I love the ocean. I love the beach. I love everything about the ocean. Yeah. And sometimes I get a little crispy." [52:40]
Key Takeaways:
- Sun Protection Awareness: Savanna emphasizes the critical importance of using appropriate sunscreen types based on skin condition to prevent adverse reactions.
- Ethical Tourism: Her experience with the whale shark excursion highlights concerns about ethical wildlife interactions and the impact of commercialization on natural experiences.
- Personal Growth Through Adversity: Savanna illustrates how past challenges and setbacks have shaped her career and personal development, encouraging listeners to view obstacles as pathways to their true purpose.
- Holistic Skincare: Consistent with her expertise, she integrates personal anecdotes with professional skincare advice, providing a relatable and informative narrative for her audience.
Final Thoughts:
In "Sunburns, Sharks & Chaos," Savanna Boda delivers a candid and engaging episode that intertwines personal experiences with professional insights. Her storytelling not only entertains but also educates listeners on crucial aspects of skincare and ethical travel, staying true to her mission of promoting holistic and informed approaches to beauty and wellness.