Project Vanity

In this special episode, Liz and Den talk to Happy Skin co-founder Rissa Mananquil-Trillo about empowering Filipinas with easy, effortless makeup that cares for the skin. As a model, she had tried numerous products that irritated her skin and caused her to break out. So she had to cover the effects of makeup with more makeup! Instead of waiting for someone to come up with a solution, she took action on something she was passionate about... at a time when foreign cosmetics were king. We'll also take a peek into Rissa's bestselling book, Read My Lips: What It Takes to Build a World-Class Homegrown Brand.

Liz and Den delve into a controversial topic: whitening. Why are Filipinos so obsessed with getting fairer skin? Or are we even obsessed still? Is there a way to whiten safely? Or can we even whiten at all? Plus, some thoughts on how beauty is personal.

Liz sits down with The Greenhouse Inc. president Angela Dinglasan. They've been making hair, face, bath, and body products that use Filipino ingredients - think gugo, VCO, and aloe vera. Not only are they reviving traditional remedies, but they're helping farmers grow their income too. But before she was all about loving local, she worked for multinationals and spent a huge part of her career abroad. We learn about her transition from cushy expat life to always-on entrepreneur.

Liz and Den sit down with Colourette founder and CEO Nina Dizon. She's been making affordable, multi-use makeup that encourages Filipinas to love their skin tone. She started her own business at 19, but she's had an entrepreneurial spirit since she was a kid, selling song lyrics to her classmates. We learn about the perks of being The Boss, as well as the sacrifices she's had to make to get to where she is today. The Project Vanity podcast is a co-production with PumaPodcast.

Liz and Den discuss the perils of fake makeup. Did you know that it has been found to contain lead, mercury, and rat droppings, even? And we also hear from a member of the Project Vanity community who actually had to undergo eye surgery because of fake eyeliner. Yikes! The Project Vanity podcast is a co-production with PumaPodcast.