Tallow is a centuries-old secret that’s making a comeback, and today we’re pulling back the curtain on what really matters when it comes to what you put on your skin.

In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend Sara from Willow Moon Farm, who makes the only tallow I trust on my face. We’re getting real about why tallow is so controversial, what makes it so special, and why sourcing and transparency are everything. If you’ve ever wondered whether tallow is a miracle ingredient or just another fad, this conversation is for you.

We dig into the nitty-gritty of what “tallow” actually means in the skincare world (spoiler: it’s not as straightforward as you think). Sara shares her process for creating truly pure, nutrient-rich tallow—from hand-selecting beef suet at a regenerative farm to her meticulous rendering process. We talk about why most commercial tallow just doesn’t cut it, and how hidden toxins and lack of transparency can make all the difference in your skincare routine.

You’ll also hear about our personal rituals, favorite products, and why handmade, small-batch skincare feels so much more special. If you’re ready to rethink your skincare and get the inside scoop on what’s really in that jar, you’re in the right place!

In today’s episode, we’re chatting about:

• The real story behind tallow and why it’s so polarizing
• How to spot high-quality, truly clean tallow (and what to avoid)
• The importance of transparency and sourcing in skincare
• Our favorite ways to use tallow and other nourishing ingredients
• Why supporting regenerative, local farms matters for your skin—and the planet

Is that plant derived ingredient ACTUALLY better for you? A lot of companies certainly want you to think so. So today, we're getting ahead of a conversation that I think will only get bigger in the coming years.

Here's the trend I'm seeing in the beauty industry: companies, brands and manufacturers are taking ingredients that are historically made from byproducts of petrochemicals and using byproducts of bioethanol instead. Then, the brands are advertising "plant-based" ingredients, painting the picture that they are completely safe and non-toxic.

Here's the thing: these ingredients are better for the environment. It's a step in the right direction. However, the final ingredient is exactly the same. So let's break down this case of greenwashing so you can spot it in stores. I currently work in the bioethanol industry, so I'm intimately familiar with how these ingredients are made and I'm dedicated to making this as simple to understand as possible.

Head on over to https://toxinfreeish.com/avoid-list in order to get the full context behind the ingredients we're talking about in this episode!

In today's episode, we're chatting about:

• How my new job is giving me a full behind the scenes look into how these ingredients are made
• The environmental benefits of using bioethanol over petroleum products
• My problem with the marketing tactics that paint these products as non-toxic
• A deep dive into phenoxylethanol

Mentioned in this episode:

Wyld Notes

Get 10% off Wyld Notes Botanical Perfume: https://wyldnotes.com/discount/WENDY10?ref=KathrynOstapuk

If you’re tired of fear-based marketing and just want the real, science-backed truth about what’s actually in your toothpaste, this episode is for you.

We’re cutting through the noise around nano hydroxyapatite, debunking the scariest claims, and getting honest about what works, what doesn’t, and why your dental health is more personal than anyone's hot take. I’m sharing the latest research, my own journey from skeptic to supporter, and real-life stories that don’t make it into the marketing reels.

In this episode, we’re chatting about:

- The truth behind “toxic” nano hydroxyapatite claims and what the science actually says

- How European and Japanese regulators have approached nano hydroxyapatite safety

- Why some people thrive on natural toothpaste—and why others end up with more cavities

- The practical realities of switching your family to non-fluoride options (and what to do if it’s not working)

- How to tune out the judgment and make the best choice for your own mouth (and your kids’)

You’ll also hear why I think Zebra’s toothpaste is great, just not for the reasons their marketing team wants you to believe. Plus, I’ll break down the most common myths about ingredients like glycerin and fluoride, and share my no-shame approach to finding what actually works for you.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or just want to brush your teeth without second-guessing every ingredient, this episode will give you the clarity (and peace of mind) you need.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Toothpillow

Head over to www.toothpillow.com and use code 'WENDY' at checkout for a FREE virtual assessment!