In this episode of The Second Degree Podcast, host Emily Merrell sits down with Melissa Nichols, founder of Reforming You, to unpack what women should have been taught about their health—but weren’t.

After spending years working in pharmaceuticals and clinical trials, Melissa made a bold pivot into Pilates, health coaching, and preventive wellness. Today, she helps women understand their bodies, balance their hormones, and take a proactive—not reactive—approach to health.

Together, Emily and Melissa explore:

• Why prevention matters more than waiting for a diagnosis
• How hormones quietly influence weight, energy, sleep, and mood
• Signs of hormone imbalance, perimenopause, and thyroid issues
• The truth about endocrine disruptors and everyday toxins
• Why stress is one of the most overlooked health risks for women
• How to advocate for yourself in the doctor’s office
• Simple lifestyle shifts that can make a meaningful difference
  
  

This conversation is educational, grounding, and empowering—perfect for any woman who wants to feel more informed, supported, and in control of her health journey.

To learn more about Melissa Nichols check out her instagram https://www.instagram.com/reforming_you/

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After building a successful career in finance, Carolin realized that access to information wasn’t the real problem—confidence, language, and systems were.

Today, she helps women feel powerful, informed, and unapologetic about their money through education, strategy, and mindset work.

Together, Emily and Carolin unpack:

• Why women are conditioned to stay quiet about money
• The biggest financial mistakes high-achieving women make
• How to build wealth without restriction, shame, or burnout
• The difference between “earning more” and actually keeping more
• Why financial literacy is a form of self-trust and self-advocacy
• How entrepreneurs can make smarter decisions with cash flow, taxes, and investing

This episode is practical, empowering, and a must-listen for any woman who wants to feel financially confident, capable, and in control—whether you’re building a business, growing your career, or simply ready to stop avoiding your bank account.

To learn more about Carolin Helff check out instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the_financially_fierce for more information on her upcoming programs.

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In this inspiring episode of The Second Degree Society Podcast, host Emily Merrell sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur Karen Martiz, founder of Skin Mix and Lash Boulevard.

What began as a chance meeting in a Denver neighborhood turned into a deep friendship — and today, Karen opens up about her remarkable journey from struggling single mom to thriving med-spa owner, product developer, educator, and beauty industry innovator.

Emily and Karen dive into:

• Scaling Lash Boulevard into a product line, online academy, and international supply chain
• Pivoting during the pandemic and finding new growth through e-commerce
• Launching Skin Mix, building luxury branding, and creating community through membership-based skincare
• What it really takes to build a business while raising kids, taking big risks, and trusting your instincts
• The chance encounter that introduced Karen to the beauty industry
• Opening her first spa with limited resources—but unlimited drive
• Becoming an early leader in lash extensions and product development
• Traveling to South Korea and China to build her supply chain
• Growing Lash Boulevard through e-commerce and online training
• Navigating pandemic shutdowns and restructuring her business
• Launching Skin Mix and creating elevated skincare experiences
• The power of community, collaboration, and neighborhood roots
• Building a recurring-revenue model with The Good Skin Club
• Advice: Start before you’re ready and solve problems as you go

Plus, Karen shares her favorite treatments, unexpected hobbies (mountain biking!), and the advice she wants every woman in business to hear.

If you’re dreaming of launching something new or are craving a dose of bold entrepreneurial energy this episode is a must-listen.

To learn more about Karen Martiz check out her website https://skin-mix.com/ and on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/skin_mix_/

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Check our past episodes of The Second Degree podcast! Remember to follow us on Instagram.