3.5 million YouTube subscribers, 1.4 million Instagram followers, and 2.1 million Facebook followers – it’s easy to get caught up on the numbers when it comes to Lauren Curtis. But there’s actually a whole lot more to this Australian content creator than an impressive follower count. Constantly finding ways to use the number game for good, Lauren’s latest project is a true reflection of this.

Launching her podcast ‘The Mental Makeover‘ earlier this week, the episodes aim to share some of Lauren’s evolution and the lessons she’s learnt in the hope it might transform and help others’ own lives. Since starting her channel in 2011, the path to success has been an emotional rollercoaster teaching her a number of invaluable lessons when it comes to life, relationships, business, and spirituality. All of this is set to be shared on The Mental Makeover.

On the back of the first episode, Lauren speaks to Husskie exclusively about her decision to launch the podcast, overcoming her own mental battles, and social media anxieties.

Why did you decide to launch the Mental Makeover Podcast?
It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while. My favourite YouTube videos are the ones where I’m talking about real life stuff – self confidence, social media, bullying, relationships, spirituality. It comes very naturally to me because I’ve always been passionate about sharing positive messages and any lessons I’ve learnt throughout the whirlwind that has been the last 8 years. My followers also really enjoy when I do “rants” on Instagram stories – it’s a condensed, slightly more raw version of what I talk about in my aforementioned YouTube videos. Podcasting was a very natural next step as I listen to them all the time while driving and thought it would make sense to have a platform dedicated solely to the kind of content that I enjoy creating the most.

Was there a personal reason that strongly inspired you to launch the podcast?
I just get so much joy and fulfilment out of helping others and sharing lessons that I’ve learnt over the years. It’s the best part of what I do.

What have been some of the biggest personal mental battles you’ve had to face?
Probably just finding a healthy balance between online and real life. Not letting social media overwhelm me and constantly reminding myself of what’s truly important.

Do you think social media has caused there to be a lot more anxiety in society than previously?
Undoubtedly, in many ways. One example is how sometimes social media can make life seem like a competition, and when someone’s not in the lead or they’re falling behind, it can take a huge toll on their mental health.

Being constantly in the limelight must play on your emotions. Has this had an effect on your own mental health?
I think that’s unavoidable, but it was worse when I was younger and still finding myself. The older I get, the more self-assured I become because I know what’s worthy of my energy or what’s just part and parcel of being on social media.

Do you feel you sometimes have to live up to preconceived ideas about yourself? Does this have an effect on your perception of self?
Not really because I’m always being authentic and true to myself. I don’t have a fake persona I put out to the world that isn’t truly me. If I’m having a bad day and I meet a follower, I’ll always make sure I put my best foot forward – not because I’m scared they’ll think badly of me otherwise, but because they genuinely light me up and I want them to have a pleasant experience meeting me since they’re the reason I am where I am.

Do you think there are misconceptions out there about you and your life?
A few years ago, for sure. I still get messages to this day from people apologising for judging me on face value and thinking I was different to how I actually am. I’ve learnt that not everyone is going to like you and that’s okay. If you remain grounded and stick to your values and who you are, then none of it really matters in the big picture.

What have been some of the steps you’ve personally taken to look after your mental health?
Finding hobbies outside of the online world (photography and plants), taking breaks from social media whenever I need to, talking to my loved ones if I’m struggling with something, but mainly just going offline.

A year down the track, what are you hoping to have achieved with the Mental Makeover Podcast?
I want to reach as many people as possible and create a wider community of like-minded people who find satisfaction in lifting each other up. It’s that simple!

All images: LozCurtis | Mental Makeover Podcast | Lauren is part of Australia’s leading beauty & lifestyle influencer agency Maxconnectors that represents some of the country’s top content creators.

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