The Reality Pill Podcast

Today's guest on The Reality Pill is Dr. Babak Azizzadeh who is known for being the leading plastic surgeon of paralysis in all of Southern California. Join us as we explore the world of facial asymmetry, both in the reconstructive realm as well as the cosmetic. This amazing doctor was a mentor of mine in the early days of my career. He taught me many tips and tricks, and I have no doubt that in this episode he will provide you with the same. 

Join me for this week's The Reality Pill as I sit down with one of my idols, Dr. Guy Massry. Dr. Massry is a master in the realm of facial plastic surgery - specifically in the area of aging around the eyes. In today's world of surgery trends plaguing the field, staying true to natural results that stand the test of time is now more imperative than ever before. Dr. Massry has taught me so much in my journey of medicine, even down to my consistency of my before and after photos, and I know without a doubt that he will teach you something in today's episode as well. 

Curious about the ins-and-outs of infertility and how to successfully achieve the goal of having children? Tune-in for today's episode of The Reality Pill where I sit down with fertility specialist Dr. Shahin Ghadir, as he dives deep into the pressing process of what this journey entails. He also shares tips and tricks that you yourself can implement or habits to remove from your day-to-day to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. We also touch on how our lines medicine can sometimes end up crossing with certain patients. Don't miss this to-the-point episode, where Dr. Ghadir tells it like it is!

Today, I sit down with my colleague and excellent orthodontist, Dr. Dan Grauer. We discuss the collaboration of orthognathics, orthodontics and dentistry that can properly fix teeth, and what plastic surgeons should be aware of to create balance in the face. Dr. Grauer shares his inside techniques on bringing the jaw forward; creating more tooth show; softening a Resting Bi*&^ Face; closing the open bite; and fixing the ‘gummy' smile. He reveals his approach to straightening teeth for patients who need to be camera ready; and the difference between Invisalign vs. other aligners vs. his approach: creating internal, invisible braces.

Today on the Reality Pill, I sit down with another excellent plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills – Dr. Payman Danielpour – to discuss what to look for when choosing a plastic surgeon. We dive into what it means to be board certified; how to find out if a surgeon's been sued; how to trust before-and-after photos and spot aggressive techniques that require later revisions; fake information, and “cures.” Tune in for this eye-opening episode!

Today, I sit down with a very special guest -- and my longtime friend: Kris Jenner. I find out how much we can really learn from her in her life and career -- she oversees multiple businesses, is constantly moving, swinging from all angles, running her Kardashian-Jenner family; and manages to stay on top of it all, seamlessly. She shares her secrets to success and the realities of her family's life in the public eye. Take a listen with me to learn from this amazing woman!

Today, I sit down with my good friend, Dr. Leonardo Moreno Trevizo to discuss the fallacies of before and after photos, and the dangers of social media as it sets unrealistic expectations for plastic surgery procedures. We go through the many beauty trends coming from social media -- including the extreme measures women go through to obtain the perfect *behind* -- without really thinking about the long-term consequences these procedures can have.   This episode is in SPANISH. It's a great language to learn if you haven't already!

Today I sit down with the brother of my brother-in-law, Oculoplastic surgeon Dr. David Samimi. We dive into brow lifts: how to tell the good from the bad, why you should stay away from thread lifts for the brows, and techniques to style and lift brows properly. Dr. Samimi teaches oculofacial plastic surgery at the University of Southern California, and practices out of Eyesthetica in Santa Monica.

Today I sit down with my good friend, Tara Strong, to learn about the ins-and-outs of voiceover acting. Known for famous roles like Timmy Turner in “The Fairly Odd Parents,” Dil Pickles in “Rugrats,” Bubbles in “Powerpuff Girls,” and many, many more, she dives into what it's like to voice male characters; her techniques; the voiceover industry at large; and even gives me an ear, with voicing some of my personal favorites. Stay tuned for this very special episode!

Join me for today's episode of The Reality Pill, as I sit down with Rabbi Asher G and get unapologetically real, yet humble, about what it means to show up for yourself and others. With his many titles varying from Unconventional Rabbi to Psychologist to Addiction Counselor, along with being a recovering addict himself, Rabbi Asher gives an unmatched perspective on what it takes to delve past one's internal barriers in order to find the growth and connection we all inherently yearn for.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei converses with Non-Surgical Nose-Job connoisseur Dr. Rivkin to chat all things face. They begin by discussing the importance of choosing the right and most experienced doctor when choosing filler and rhinoplasty work and talk us thru how to determine what is best for you and the general aesthetic of your face. With any work there are dangers and limitations and both Dr. Talei and Dr. Rivkin explain why the nose is one of the most delicate to work with. They go over which fillers they have the most success with, and what are the long term effects to be mindful of.

In this special episode, I sit down in person with Mexican actress and jack-of-all-trades, Kate Del Castillo. Today, I find out the realities of protesting governments - including her experience with Mexican governments that led to her Netflix documentary, “The Day I Met El Chapo.” We dive into her acting career, including her one-woman play, “The Way She Spoke” and her famous “La Reina Del Sur” ; how fame has impacted her; and what led her to start a tequila company. Have a drink with us as we open up about our lives.

Today I sit down with Darin McClary, a.k.a. Darin The Damn Trainer, of The Biggest Loser challenge and Ready to Love TV. We're both trainers - him in fitness, and myself in beauty, and today we dive into the important parts of guiding people as a trainer. Darin shares how to change your relationship with food; he got his name; his approach to fasting, plant-based diets; and psychological traumas that get in the way of weight loss.

Today I sit down with a friend and mentor, world-renowned NYC dermatologist Dr. Doris Day. Known for “The Gist” show and her groundbreaking research in the field of dermatology, today we discuss the delicate balance in achieving beauty through non-surgical treatments: what to know about Botox, fillers and lasers before going to get work done; and what to look for in skincare products. Follow her on Sirius XM, The Gist YouTube and @drdorisday Instagram for more up-to-date skincare tips and information.

Today I welcome my co-lecturer, the world-renowned cosmetic dentistry expert, Dr. Lawrence Rifkin.  We discuss how to fix a gummy smile; when to use or not use veneers; and the importance of phonetics functions in both lip lifting and dentistry. To follow along with the before and after photos discussed in this lecture, check out The Reality Pill on Instagram TV and YouTube, and find more of Dr. Rifkin's photos on his website.

Today I talk to filmmaker Cris Saur, the director of the film “Quest for Beauty. A model turned documentary storyteller, she shares her perspective on the beauty industry as we explore existential questions like what beauty means and what makes life beautiful; how she made @questforbeautymovie; and how plastic surgeons can benefit from understanding the meaning of beauty for their patients.

In this episode of The Reality Pill we switch roles and my mentor Dr. Pearlman interviews me about my techniques in face lifting, lip lifting, brow lifting; and what I've learned throughout my years. We discuss my coveted deep plane AuraLyft; why I feel it is superior to other facelifts and how it leaves the most natural looking appearance. We discuss buccal fat, what is it, how it is used in facelifts; and how we both like the outcome of Profound RF and Morpheus as our top radio frequency procedures to add to our surgeries for best outcome.

In this week's episode I sit down with my brother-in-law Dr. Nadiv Samimi to discuss the intricate field of pain medicine and his various approaches to helping patients. For some of his cases he addresses physical pain directly, but for many there is a psychological element that plays an even bigger part. Join me as we dive into this reality and learn how pain might even be impacting the lives of you and me.

This week on The Reality Pill, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Octavio Cintra, an esteemed specialist in Orthognathic and Oral Surgery. His techniques in shaping the face go beyond the manipulation of soft tissue and dive into how affecting the position of facial bones can achieve a desired correction in appearance as well as functionality in the oral region. I look forward to picking Dr. Cintra's brain and discussing his experience in the world of dentistry and oral surgery, as well as exploring the common ground in our professions!

In this episode of The Reality Pill, I sit down for the anticipated Part 2 with my colleague, Dr. Cohen to chat breast revision and why it is one of the most complicated types of surgery. We discuss the importance of choosing the right surgeon and to be wary of outside “cheaper options.” Breast revision is a very intricate procedure and there are many variables that can cause challenges and complications, so it is vital to do your research and understand this before going into surgery. I also discuss why Dr. Cohen loves to add fat grafting into his surgery, and how he addresses wound healing in patients.

Join me for today's “The Reality Pill” as I welcome guest Bruno Pereira to dissect the definition of facial symmetry and it's effect on perceived beauty. Pereira, who specializes in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, shares his unmatched knowledge of facial anatomy and the importance of honoring the facial flow of patients as individuals.

Today I sit down with oromaxillofacial surgeon Javier Gutierrez. Based in Marbella Spain, Gut specialized in facial feminization surgery. We discuss his surgery center and facial team- a resort like experience for patient recoveries; and the intricacies of facial feminization and transgender reaffirmation surgery.

In this episode of The Reality Pill, I sit down with plastic surgeon and star of “The Doctors,” Dr. Ritu Chopra to discuss all things breast & body. We discuss the difference between a breast implant and a breast lift, the different types of lifts and what is best suited for your body type. We also talk about a very important topic: breast implant illness. What is it and why does it happen?

In this episode of The Reality Pill, I sit down with my mentor, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Pearlman to talk all things surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty and revisions. We discuss complexities of rhinoplasty revision and what it entails; the difference between open vs closed rhinoplasty; form and function in looking natural; types of cartilage grafting; and the limitations to non-surgical work.

In this episode of The Reality Pill I introduce my business partner, plastic surgeon Dr. Cohen. We discuss the realities and myths in the world of breasts and tummy tucks and the misconception between natural/fake and subtle/substantial differences.

In this episode of The Reality Pill I sit down with plastic surgeon Dr. Neinstein to chat surgeon specialization, all things liposuction and conturing the body. We discuss the skill set required for being a top plastic surgeon, the difference between traditional and modern liposuction and the pros/cons associated with trying to achieve “perfection.”

I had the opportunity to sit down with cosmetic dentist and international speaker Dr. Kyle Stanley to chat about the importance of camaraderie, and the synergy between dentists and plastic surgeons. We discuss how knowing the structure and beauty of both the teeth and face can assist patients; and how to utilize each other's talents to perform to the desires of patients and achieve the most natural look. 

In today's new episode of "The Reality Pill" I discuss the honorable work of facial feminization surgeon, Dr. Jeff Spiegel, and the details of this transformative process. We dig into how this journey is emotionally taxing on the patient as well as the surgeon, but in the end brings so much joy by helping someone feel complete in who they are.  

Join me as I discuss the artistry of the lip lift with today's guest Dr. Haworth. In this episode, we explore the details of facial balance, lip concerns, choosing the right procedure, the 3 types of corner lip lifts he performs, and our work on cleft palate reconstruction.

Giving you an inside look into my discussion with plastic surgeon Dr. Subbio where we talk about how social media brings both pros and cons for surgeons and how there is a certain level of perfection expected. We discuss how we need to be more accountable and transparent with what we showcase to patients, and we discuss the truth about fillers and thread lifts.

This episode of "The Reality Pill" welcomes guest, Dr. J, who is distinguished worldwide for his Brazilian butt lift. He and I discuss his procedures in great detail, including how he delivers natural results, different enhancement alternatives and answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What is a dab of weed? Do you know? I didn't, but I do now! In today's episode of “The Reality Pill” I have a mind expanding experience discussing the multiple benefits found in the world of medical marijuana with Dr. Dina 420.

It's very rare for two surgeons to do things completely differently, yet agree on everything the other person does. This new episode of "The Reality Pill" explores details of the different plastic surgery techniques performed by Dr. Chia Chi Kao, along with why patients picking the right surgeon is actually far more important than picking the right technique.

What can be done to improve stretch marks? Is there a way to completely remove them? Tune in to today's new episode of “The Reality Pill” where world renowned plastic surgeon @sanjaygrovermd and I discuss this and much more.      

I'm very excited to share today's new release of “The Reality Pill” with everyone. Today's episode features a great friend, Dominic Ciambrone aka The Shoe Surgeon, who I not only look up to because of his artistic ability, but truly as a surgeon as well. Looking forward to hearing all of your thoughts and hope you find him to be as inspiring as I do.

In this episode of The Reality Pill I sit down with my dear friend and Ju Jitsu master Rigan Michado to discuss his success and the importance of discipline in both sport and surgery and our appreciation for our craft. Rigan discusses the history of Ju Jitsu, how he got into it, strategy behind being a great fighter and how as an athlete you are always embracing a new style and evolving. We talk about the importance of trust between coach and student and how it relates to trust between doctor and patient. There are many parallels in sport and surgery and I am extremely grateful to have learned so much from Rigan and his work ethic.

In this episode of The Reality Pill I sit down with sex therapist and psychologist Dr. Kate Balestrieri  to chat sex, relationships, personality disorders and intimacy issues. We dive deep into toxic relationships and narcissistic tendencies, relational traumas, co-dependency, sex addiction, mental health, projection, revenge porn, treatment and so much more. This is one you won't want to miss!

In this episode of The Reality Pill I sit down with star of “Shahs of Sunset,” owner of Asifa Aesthetics and longtime friend Asifa Mirza to discuss and pick her brain as both a consumer and someone who works in the medical field. We discuss her love of working with Cutera and what our favorite non-invasive treatments are when it comes to hair removal, pigmented & vascular lesions, body sculpting and other heat based and skin resurfacing therapies. She dives into and shares her own personal skincare routine, which includes slapping her face(yes really) every morning and shares all the products she personally loves that achieves the best results. We both have worked in this industry for a long time so pull up a chair, put up your feet and lets get into the good stuff!

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei sits down with Pharmacist/Holistic Wellness Blogger and star of “Shahs of Sunset,” Dr. Mona Vand to chat all things mind, body and soul. They discuss how to treat different types of acne, facts and misconceptions on what you see in the media, how to read labels and how to choose the right products that work for your skin. They emphasize the significance of nourishing the body from the inside out; that food is the best medicine and discuss if vitamins/probiotics are a good source of supplementation or just placebo. Dr. Talei and Dr. Vand stress the importance of not being so hard on yourself in this time of uncertainty and encourage us to put our best foot forward, try new things and find a routine that works for you. 

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei is joined by KNC beauty founder and skincare guru Kristen Crawley to answer the most asked skincare and injection questions. They discuss the reality of both medical and non-medical skin treatments and fillers for all areas of the face and how it affects every skin tone differently. What creams, peels, fillers and devices are best suited to treat hyperpigmentation, melasma, dark spots, dark circles and what skin treatments are best for your age. Dr. Talei gives advice on preventative measures and talks about his coveted lip lift, Auralyft and rhinoplasty revision procedures and how choosing the right doctor based on your skin tone is imperative in getting the results you want.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr Ben Talei once again sits down in conversation with Emergency Care Doctor Claudie Bolduc to give us an update and inside look of what it's like to be on the front line of COVID-19. They discuss how COVID-19 differs from other viruses like the flu, how there are so many unanswered questions still, and the importance of this shutdown and why health officials fear for a resurgence. Since last time they spoke there has been more information on the search for a vaccine, the effectiveness/ineffectiveness of the current testing and how vital it is for us all to adhere to CDC and WHO guidelines in order to get back to some normalcy in society.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei sits down with Youtube beauty and lifestyle guru Jackie Hernandez to talk all things being a mom, her cruelty-free makeup line Jdez beauty and how to choose the right injectables for you. They discuss the best skincare treatments, best fillers for your face, how to stay looking natural and how makeup can help or hurt your appearance. En este episodio de The Reality Pill , el Dr. Ben Talei se sienta con la gurú de belleza y esilo de vida de YouTube, Jackie Hernández, para hablar de ser madre, su linea de maquillaje sin crueldad Jdez beauty y cómo elegir los inyestables adecuados para ti. Discuten los mejores tratamientos par el cuidado de la piel, los mejores rellones para su rostro, cómo el maquillaje puede ayudar o dañar su apariencia.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei sits down with well respected and highly sought-after facial and body plastic surgeon Dr. Ashkan Ghavami to chat about the ever evolving world of plastic surgery. Join them as they discuss their specialization in rhinoplasty, variations in breast and butt augmentations, how to treat scar tissue formations, favorite skin tightening treatments and the importance of downtime in between specific surgeries.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei is joined by beloved plastic surgeon and social media star Dr. Sheila Nazarian to discuss the ongoing pandemic, the importance of healthcare professionals and how it will affect their practice moving forward. They dive into the importance of creating a better work/life balance, speaking your truth to inspire others and how COVID-19 has led them to experience a deeper level of internal and external growth.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr. Ben Talei sits down with renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Mani to chat about the artistry, education and intricacies behind performing facelifts. They discuss their signature procedures; Auralyft and Scarless TCF Lift and why they are leading the way for Deep plane facelifts around the world. They answer the question why do we age? And talk about how the function of the face has evolved over time and the progression of the facelift to what it is today.

In this episode of The Reality Pill Dr Ben Talei talks to Dr. Claudie Bolduc, MD, MPH about the current worldwide epidemic COVID-19. Dr. Claudie Bolduc pulse checks on fake health news and answers our burning questions right from the frontlines of this horrific epidemic