Beauty, Business and Balancing Self-Care: The AYU Story with Suzie O'Neill #095

The Laura Dowling Experience

In this episode, I’m joined by Suzie O’Neill, founder of AYU Cosmetics, who shares her journey from makeup artist and educator, to CEO. Suzie opens up about the ups and downs of building her brand, from recovering after a failed partnership to juggling work, family, and self-care.

We chat about the self-care habits that boost confidence, especially for busy women—whether it’s putting on a bit of makeup, running marathons, or horse-riding with her kids. Suzie and I also discuss the role of diet and exercise in keeping a balanced, healthy life and the positive ripple effect it has on mental and physical well-being.

Suzie gives us a peek behind the scenes of AYU’s growth, from online consultations to global expansion, all while staying customer-focused. She’s honest about the challenges of funding her business and competing in a tough market. Whether you’re into beauty or business, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, self-belief, and staying true to your vision.
This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN GLOW. Designed to promote radiant and healthy hair and skin, fabÜ SKIN GLOW is a unique blend of Reishi mushroom, amino acids, essential vitamins like Vitamin C, A and E, niacinamide, and zinc. Available on fabuwellness.com, and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.

Also, Viva La Vulva is back! Join me and my esteemed panel of guests in the National Concert Hall, Dublin on 1st March 2025, for an evening dedicated to women’s health. With honest conversations on topics like pelvic floor health, sexual wellness, peri and menopause, and HRT, the event will be fun, informative, and empowering. Each €75 ticket includes a goodie bag worth over €100, ensuring you leave feeling pampered. Buy your tickets at nch.ie so you don't miss out!

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

Hoofdstukken

1. Beauty, Business and Balancing Self-Care: The AYU Story with Suzie O'Neill #095 (00:00:00)

2. AYU Cosmetics (00:00:03)

3. Prioritizing Self-Care Through Exercise (00:11:37)

4. Expanding AYU Cosmetics Brand Growth (00:20:49)

5. Navigating Challenges in Global Expansion (00:25:49)

6. Navigating Challenges and Business Growth (00:32:17)

7. Juggling Business and Family Life (00:41:46)

8. Parenting and Entrepreneurship Balancing Act (00:46:15)

9. Embracing Failure and Entrepreneurship Through Running (00:53:53)

10. Nutrition and Marathon Training Challenges (00:58:29)

11. Fitness Chat (01:06:39)