Episode 85: Solutions For Thigh Chafing + Creating Confidence With Brittany Lammon
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Episode 85: Solutions For Thigh Chafing + Creating Confidence With Brittany Lammon
In this episode we sit down with....Brittany Lammon.
Makeup and hair stylist to the stars, working with WWE and entrepreneur, founder of The Chub Rub Patch. Brittany has always wanted to help people feel good about themselves, that is why she became a makeup artist and hair stylist. From there, she eventually decided to create products such as The Chub Rub Patch to help people live an easier life. Her goal is and always will be, to help women and men feel great about who they truly are inside and out.
In this conversation we talk about:
Brittany’s personal body acceptance story- the power of diversity, safety, & inclusivity she experienced in college
The behind the scenes of starting her product
Ridding the shame about thigh chafing
Brittany's go to hair and makeup products
Tips on finding your people while being authentically you
Connect with our guest...
Tik Tok: @thechubrubpatch
IG: @thechubrubpatch
Shop: thechubrubpatch.shop
Resources we mention in this episode…
Ready to heal your relationship with food + body?
Book your FREE Body Trust Breakthrough Consult
Grab your FREE Intuitive Eating Workshop
Get weekly email support from me to help you heal your relationship with food + body image
TRANSCRIPTION
Episode 85: Solutions For Thigh Chafing + Creating Confidence With Brittany Lammon
Katelyn:
Brittany Lammon- hello, welcome to the show. I'm so happy you're here.
Brittany:
Awesome. Hi, how are you? I'm so happy to be here. I'm very excited for this.
Katelyn:
Yes, me too. Let's just dive in and get into your body image story. I'm so excited to hear and so grateful to have you share. So the first question that we ask everybody on the show is your first body awareness moment. So that moment where you initially realized I'm in a body, and apparently this means something in the world that I'm living in? What did that moment look like for you? And also, how did that shape your relationship with your body and or food moving forward? Just take up space, share your story. I can't wait to hear.
Brittany (body image story):
Alright, so I grew up in a town with one stoplight in Ohio- very, very small town. Everybody knew everybody. You know, I was raised by everyone, the whole community- it was aunts, uncles, grandparents, Mom and Dad, of course, and I had two sisters. We were very fortunate. And we had a pool growing up. And I remember, we would always be in the pool every summer. No big deal. Me and my sisters, my cousins were always over. And then I joined softball- I may have been 10, I'm guessing 10 or 12. And I joined this team of all girls. I can't say that I was very good. I probably sat on the bench a few times. But I just liked the community of it all. And my dad was a coach. And so at the end of the year he wanted to throw a pizza party, invite everyone over, congratulate everyone. We all had a great year. It was fun, all of that. And so we go swimming. And that's when I realized that not everyone was shaped like me. And I decided to put on a T-shirt- so I went swimming with a T-shirt. And thinking back now I'm like was that really even hiding anything? But for me, that was a comfort zone. And so I did it ever since then, like, up until I was probably 17 or 18. And I always had the pool in the backyard. But whenever I had a friend over, I would always throw on that T-shirt. And I look back now and think that was really silly. I didn’t think that as a child, because you really don't know any better. But I just felt very uncomfortable. Growing up I had a great family. My parents have been married for 40 years. I have two older sisters. My parents were always very busy. So we would always go out to eat, I would say three to four times a week, possibly. And at the age of 13. I had a cholesterol problem. And my family- we've always been big boned. And I would say everything was normal until this cholesterol problem happened. And so you know, we tried to start eating a little bit healthier. And I'm almost 40. So back then, 25-30 years ago, we didn't really know what we know now. So I felt like my parents definitely did the best that they could, of course, but we really didn't. There wasn't really any exercising. I mean I remember my mom doing step aerobics a few times and dragging me along. And we were always involved in sports, but we weren't ever really pushed to do it. It was kind of like, Oh, do you enjoy this? Okay, let's do it. And I was in basketball, track all of that, but I just did it because it was a community thing. And it was fun. Was I ever good? No, no, no, no. But that's okay. So I feel like growing up, my parents tried to do the best with eating. I do remember this one story- My mother went away on vacation. And my dad's like, oh, we're gonna go buy sugar cereal. We were not allowed to have sugar cereal in our house. And I remember I guess we didn't finish the sugar cereal. When my mom got home. She was not having it. She was like, you know, we eat healthy in this house, even though we do eat out a few times a week. And she decided that she was going to go take the sugar cereal and throw it in the pool. So we were like, Oh my goodness, but you know my parents always tried. And I feel like I really started to realize what healthy eating was when I actually went to college. And it's funny because a lot of people say like the freshman 15, or whatever happens there, you know, but for me, it was really awareness and open minded to meeting all these new people that were like, Oh, hey, do you want to go for a run? And I'm like, oh, okay, well, let's do it. You know, and I always did it because I always wanted to be involved. It wasn't because I actually liked the sport or liked running. I just did it because I like to be around other people. And it was fun for me. And it's funny because now it leads up into where I really enjoy working out. I like to go running. I'm actually doing a half marathon tomorrow, which is a little crazy. I've done about four or five in the past.
Katelyn:
You're doing a half marathon in Florida right now?
Brittany:
Yeah. Isn't that a little crazy in August?
Katelyn:
Oh, my God in August. For everybody listening, Brittany lives in Florida. You may or may not know I'm from Florida too and August is hands down the hottest month.
Brittany:
I mean, I don't know if it's maybe because of a COVID thing that they were like, oh, let's keep pushing it, and then they're like, Okay, let's do it in August. And for some reason, at that moment, I thought it was a great idea. But now that you kind of say it, I'm like, Oh, I think it's like 98 out today, actually. It's crazy. And I'm actually doing a triathlon with two other friends and we're gonna be doing it in Tempe, Arizona. But that's in October so they say that it should be different. That's really where it started for me growing up and then it kind of led into my adult life- eating healthy, eating mindfully and also working out. It has been kind of more for me, a mental thing. Like I flew in this morning at one o'clock in the morning, my schedule is very crazy. I am a makeup artist and hairstylist for WWE, as well as an inventor and entrepreneur. And that time for me, I think is my time to just kind of release everything and kind of, you know, not worry about the day ahead, but really just have that time for myself. So I really enjoy that.
Katelyn:
Yeah, it sounds like it's really sacred and almost more of a meditative experience.
Brittany:
And oh, for sure. Yeah, I love that about movement too and it just feels really fun and enjoyable as well.
Katelyn:
Yes. So I want to go backwards before we move forward. Because you mentioned that your first body awareness moment was identifying that moment of being in the pool and putting a T-shirt on, and that this was a habit that you had adopted it sounds like for pretty much all through your childhood and adolescence up until 17 or 18 years old
Brittany:
Yes.
Katelyn:
I can imagine there were some pretty deep feelings that were coming up when you chose to put the T-shirt on your body. So what was your relationship with your body like outside of the swimming pool? Were you trying to change your body at all? Was there insecurity or self doubt? Was it something that you were talking about? What was going on outside of that singular moment of choosing to wear a T shirt over your swimsuit?
Brittany:
Well growing up, I always was very confident my family raised me to be a very, very confident person. No matter what size, no matter what you're doing, you know, just be the best person that you can be. And so that's how I went into the world. You know, I'm great. I'm awesome. I'm fabulous. My thing is always, be fabulous. And then it kind of comes from being around the other kids when you're, you know, kind of being made fun of. And then that's when you're like, oh, let me crawl back into my hole. I've always been taught, be amazing, but then it was like, you know, other kids were the ones that were like, you look different. You know- why can't you fit into this? I remember going to Cedar Point- this is in Ohio. It's a thing that if you're on an Academic Team, you always get a trip to Cedar Point. And I just always remember being the bigger person there, and my thighs would chafe. And that was always a thing that was embarrassing because the kids that I hung out with, none of them were my size. And so they didn't understand what was going on. And so I would be in pain, walking through this amusement park- it’s supposed to be the funnest day of the year, you know, it's at the end of school. This is a celebration, and I kind of dreaded going, because I knew that this was gonna happen every single time. And I really didn’t do anything about it because I didn't think that I needed to, because my family always told me I was awesome. But then it was coming from other kids that really puts a damper on your happiness.
Katelyn:
Yeah. And it sounds like there's this dissonance coming through as well in your story- just the sense of confidence and really promoting that. And then the insecurity around the narrative that our culture is giving you and the kids around and everything.
Brittany:
Yes, in a sense.
Katelyn:
So how did you get to that place where you realized that you didn't need to wear the T-shirt anymore, and really made that decision to step into owning your body at whatever size it was? What was that journey like for you? Was there a lightbulb moment? Or was there something that shifted to click in that something needed to change?
Brittany:
Well, I think it was, for me, going off to college. It was going and being around different people, different ethnicities, different sizes, different mindset, and really opened me up. And don't get me wrong, I loved growing up in a small town, it was very safe, it was great. But at the same time, my mind wasn't open to what's out there. And so when I went to college, I was like, oh, wow, there’s a whole new world out there. And that's when I really was like, You know what, like, I'm gonna be myself, I'm gonna be the size that I am, I'm going to be fabulous. And I'm going to show everyone that. And I really just, I think it was honestly one of my first or second days of college- I got placed in a dorm room with some other girl. And I was like, oh, man, this isn't going to be fun. I don't know this person, you know. And it ends up, we're still best friends to this day. And she was about the same size as me. And it was so great. Because I remember when she left to go pick up something I was like, Oh, I wonder if she's the same size. And I went and looked at her closet. And I was like, Yes, this is great. It was awesome. And so that's when I really was just like, you know, being around other people and open mindedness that was what really made me be as fabulous as I always thought I have been,
Katelyn:
That is so refreshing to hear. I mean, and how powerful is that? This could have gone such a different way for your brain. And it does for so many people too. But to be in this position where it's an impressionable time in your life, there's a lot of change coming up and to be in an environment where it sounds like there was a tremendous amount of diversity and inclusion and an exposure to different body sizes and shapes and ethnicities and backgrounds like you're saying. And also having a roommate who you feel safe with. It sounds like you were in a really safe environment during this time. And this is so interesting because I see this a lot- especially with social media right now and it's so problematic- just this comparison trap around following one standard body size that our culture is filtering out and feeling the unworthiness or the exclusion around that and how shifting what we're exposing ourselves to can change everything. It really can be a catalyst to feeling safer and feeling more included. Changing the narrative around our worthiness with our bodies and detaching from that and untangling. It just sounds like you're in this really safe perfect container to facilitate this uncoupling around your confidence and worthiness from your body and really owning your confidence- you deciding that you're enough just as you are and having that reinforcement from the culture around you. It's incredible.
Brittany:
Yes, and social media has definitely helped my business, and we'll talk about that in the future. But I'm kind of really glad that I didn't have it growing up. Through my teens, and even the beginning of my college years. Because I just feel like sometimes, like you said, when you're on social media, and you start following something, and it starts leading you to all this stuff, the comparisons, the before and afters, everything, then you're like, wait, why don't I look like that? Well, maybe I should look like that. What am I doing wrong? For me, I surrounded myself with the right people that had a positive image and outlook on life, body positivity, all of that.
Katelyn:
God, that’s so great. And it sounds like there's a privilege in being put in that position where it was kind of chosen for you. But ultimately, you get to choose for yourself as well, too. And you get to make choices based on that experience moving forwards. So I'm curious, moving out of college and out of this really safe, inclusive container in being able to express yourself exactly as you were, did anything shift for you? Or did you find yourself in other really safe environments and social circles and work environments moving forward? Was there ever another time where there was that disconnect around not feeling safe in your body?
Brittany:
I went to a university first and then decided that that wasn't really for me. And I went to cosmetology school. And that was when I really was like, Oh, my God, I have found my people, just because I've always had a different look, you know. I've had half the side of my head shaved for about 10 years. And it's just like, people really got me there, and really got what was going on in my brain because they were kind of thinking the same thing. And then I went to work at a salon, and then I moved to Florida. It's funny, because my mom would tell me growing up, like, don't be a follower, don't be a follower. And I'm like, actually, Mom, I'm the leader. You know, like, I really was always kind of that person. And I think it goes back to how they raised me, you know, it was just like, You are awesome. And I've really been through crazy stuff, moving to South Florida on my own. And starting my own business, I've always just really been the person that has always had the most confidence, and kind of taught my friends that- you know, like, You are awesome. Why are you doubting yourself? You are enough, you know, and that's what we were saying before- everyone has to believe that. They have to believe in themselves, or else no one else is going.
Katelyn:
It does come from this deep belief system. And it also, again, it's so important the environment that you choose to surround yourself with in enhancing that belief for yourself because it can feel so unsafe when we're in environments that don't facilitate that type of nurturing and feeling included and seen. It's so interesting. As you're describing your story, I'm having this flashback right now of walking into my first fashion class in college. I was a fashion major and before I switched to that major, I was an international studies major and minoring in women's studies and anthropology and whatnot. Lots of different changes. And yeah, when I shifted into my fashion major, I remember going into the first class and looking around the room and feeling so seen and feeling like oh my god, I found my people- I didn't know this group of people existed. It was like me all in one space. I always kind of had more of a creative flair in the way that I dressed and didn't really care what people thought about it. I was just kind of always doing my own thing. And being in a room where I really saw everybody else expressing themselves from a style point of view in the same way- just really doing their own thing marching to the beat of their own drum. I was like oh, my God, this is crazy how everybody can be here and we can feel so seen and accepted together. So it is powerful when you put yourself in environments where you feel really safe and supported and included.
Brittany:
Yeah, so it was like a breath of fresh air. It was like a new start for me, you know, not saying that anything was horrible before, but it was like I found my people I can be 100% authentically me.
Katelyn:
Let's talk about that for a minute. Because if people are listening to this thinking, How do I do that? How do I find my people? How do I actually get to a place where I feel included and feel really safe? What would you suggest in terms of offering advice, words of wisdom, or coaching somebody through that experience of really finding their tribe?
Brittany:
What I would suggest is really finding what you're passionate about. Because once you find that, those people are just as passionate about that same thing as you are. And that's when you can really open yourself up and be your own self. I remember I tried out for Shark Tank. And you know, I did not get on the show. I will someday. But I stood in line for eight hours. And I remember coming home and telling my sister, and you know, I stood in line for eight hours, you get 30 seconds in front of the judges. She's like, Oh, my God, that sounds horrible. And I'm like, No, it was amazing. Because I was surrounded by all of these other inventors and entrepreneurs that were trying to do the same thing as me. And hearing everybody's story, you really felt what they were telling you. And that's when you find your people, you know, like, cutting hair. My dad actually was the one that was like, you know, I really think that you would be great at this. And I was like, you know, actually, I've been doing it my whole high school career- doing hair and makeup for friends and family. And that's when I went into cosmetology school and I was like, wow, these are my people, they're passionate about the same thing as I am. So what I would suggest is find what you are most passionate about really deep down, don't let other people tell you it's not a good idea. I mean friends would say this is the wildest craziest thing. But I never really took their advice. I've always just done my own thing. And it's really made me who I am. And that's where my confidence came from.
Katelyn:
I love that- that's such a great tool and advice to offer. Finding what you're passionate about in order to find your tribe. What if somebody is listening to this and thinking in their mind, that's great advice, I have no idea what I'm passionate about- how do I start exploring that for myself? How would you help someone navigate that?
Brittany:
Well, I would say to start really being more in tune with what is fun for you. You know- is it working out? Is it cooking? Do you like to cook at home for your friends and family? Maybe you really like to swim or you know, it could be anything that you're passionate about. There was a time where I felt like, I'm inventing- and I don't know anybody that invents. And anytime I would have a question or something, you know, you normally go to your friends, your family, mom and dad and uncle, but I had no idea. So there was this app out there that's called meetup.com- I believe it's still there. It's different groups of people that are passionate about the same thing that you are, and you go and honestly, it's probably a little scary in the very beginning, you know. We met at a coffee shop, there were 10 other people there and you're kind of sitting in the back. And then you know, people start talking about the same things that you love. And you're like, Oh, wait, hey, they’re here for the same reason. You know, I had a friend that moved to Miami- he didn’t know anybody and tried meetup.com- there's all kinds of things on there. He had a dog, so he met up with other people that had the same kind of dog that he did. And he met you know, 10 to 15 people that day. So I feel like that actually really works. Facebook groups has it. You know, begin with something that you just enjoy- reading books, knitting, all different kinds of stuff like that. There's so much out there now on the internet that you can find your tribe.
Katelyn:
Yeah. And it's really creating space for exploring what is joyful for you- what you really enjoy, what your pleasures are in life, what what satisfies you want to on a deeper level, and then finding people to connect with from there.
Brittany:
Exactly.
Katelyn:
You mentioned that you coach your friends, and really just hold space around confidence for people and really encourage people to step into their own confidence. So how do you facilitate that? What are some tools that you use or things that you offer your friends, or people in your community to really start owning their confidence more?
Brittany?
I would have to say that I help them build their confidence by just telling them that every single person in the world is different. And you have to own that. And the thing is, you know, me sitting next to Sally, or Beth, or Megan, next you is going to be different and your story is going to be different. So you have to own what you bring to the table. You know, it may be that you make people smile, you make people laugh, you're the jokester. Really own that and be confident in that and really express that to people. This is who I am. And this is how I'm gonna be. Because honestly, if you're if you're not, then who else is going to be?
Katelyn:
That sounds like stepping into fear and discomfort for a lot of people. But God that is such a practical tool.
Brittany:
And even just making eye contact and like being really direct when saying hello. That is such a powerful way of stepping into that confidence and practicing it for yourself.
Katelyn:
I really love that so much. And I love what you just said about acknowledging that every single person is different and that there’s only one of yourself. And this is where we can kind of go back to these environments that we're in and who we're comparing ourselves to, and get really honest about that and acknowledge what we might need to change in our mindset around our environment to facilitate more safety- to be bolder and be more confident. These are great tools. I want to redirect and talk about your product because you've mentioned you're an inventor and an entrepreneur and a makeup artist for WWE. So what came first? Did you invent the product and then start with the WWE? Did the product come after that?
Brittany:
So I have been a makeup artist and hairstylist for about 15 years- I was a hairstylist first, then it turned into makeup, because to me, it was always about making the person feel good. That's really where it all started. It was like, okay, doing hair, I love it. And then I was like, What can I add to this, you know, to make people feel good? And so I started doing makeup. I absolutely loved it- it was amazing. And then I got this opportunity. I ran an agency for a while and got the opportunity six years ago to work for WWE. So you definitely have to have a lot of confidence working in that place. Because there is the fittest of the fit in the biggest entertainment company in the world. I still work there to this day. It's a very crazy schedule. But I really love it. I love doing hair and makeup. It's fun, I get to talk to all different kinds of people all the time, I get to travel the United States, even out of the country sometimes. But I really was like there's something missing for me. And so I really have found my passion in making life easier for people. And so I've always, as a younger girl- I talked about this earlier- I had thigh chafing. And nobody really talked about it. And actually nobody really talks about it to this day. I don't know why it's so taboo.
Katelyn:
I agree. Nobody talks about it. And also in all different body sizes and shapes too- like this is a thing that so many people struggle with, myself included.
Brittany:
Yes. And that's what I try and explain to people because you know, I was talking to this other inventor and she was explaining she said Oh, so it's for a little bit curvier women. And I'm like, first of all, it's not only just for women, men have it as well. But it's just how your body is made. This is how God put it there. This is what you're doing. It's not if you work out 10 times a day. I mean, there's WWE girls that lift all the time and they have bigger thighs. It's just how their bodies are made and they love the product. So I was always uncomfortable living in South Florida. I would want to wear a dress, I want to wear cute shorts. But then I have to think like, oh, what am I going to be wearing tomorrow because I'm gonna have thigh chafing from the day before. And for people that don't know about this, it's when your thighs rub together, and chafe, and it makes a red mark, sometimes it bleeds, sometimes it scabs, it is very, very uncomfortable. It feels like an open wound in between your thighs on both legs. So that's when I was like, there's got to be a better way. I mean, I know that there's deodorants, there's creams, there's all there's a lot of different things that you can use for it. But at the same time, it's something that you have to keep in your purse, or you have to wear biker shorts. I wanted to invent something that I didn't have to reapply- that I didn't have to worry about. And the next day, I could wear the same cute dress or cute shorts that I wanted the day before. You can wear it for multiple days. So I invented this patch that goes in between your thighs, one on the left, and one on the right. So that when your legs are rubbing together, it's not actually skin, it's a protectant on your thighs. And then at the end of the day, you can take it off however you want. You can peel it off, you can use coconut oil, you can take it off in the shower, I've heard of multiple ways of taking it off.
Katelyn:
Fabulous. And is it reusable? Or do you get a new patch every time?
Brittany:
I like to say it's kind of like a nipple cover. It's cool, you know you wear it one time and we put two pairs in each pack so then you can wear the next one the next day. And a little hint hint- I've worn one pair for two to three days.I've actually you know, gone to a baby shower, went out that night and then the next day I'm like oh I'm going to the beach because I live in Fort Lauderdale. I'm going to go to the beach and I will wear it at the beach.
Katelyn?
So is the adhesive so strong that you just reapply it or do you just not take it off?
Brittany:
I just don't take it off. I just leave it on. You can shower with it. It's waterproof. It's hypoallergenic, latex free.
Katelyn:
That is amazing.
Brittany:
It really is great. One of my co-workers, we were going to a party and I said, Hey, would you like to wear the chafe patch? And I'm like, actually, can you just wear one so I can take a cute picture of you? She's like, okay, okay, Brittany, I'll do whatever you want. You know, she puts it on and she was like, I can't live without these. She's like, why didn't you give these to me sooner? And I was like, I've tried to tell you. She's like, honestly, I will not wear a dress, skirt, shorts, anything without wearing this. And I was like, Okay, thank you. And now she carries them in her kit. For other people, when you know you're doing a wedding or you're on a photoshoot or anything. She has them available for clients.
Katelyn:
So let's talk about the journey of thigh chafing. Because, first of all, just like we acknowledged, nobody is talking about it. And everybody is struggling with it, it seems like. Why aren't we talking about it? Why is there shame around this or stigma? What have you found in your community that is really preventing people from being open about this?
Brittany:
I think it goes back to childhood, when you were growing up, and being made fun of- that feeling that if you talk about it, someone's going to say something or be mean about it. And it's kind of like how I feel. Honestly a lot of women don't talk about their period. It's such a normal thing to have. But it's so normal. But as kids or growing up teenagers, it's not something you really talked about, we didn't really talk about that in my family. And so now I just feel like so many people are ashamed, and think that it's a bad thing. And it's not, it's how you were made. So that's why I don't think that it should be anything that you're ashamed of. It's just honestly, figuring out a better way to be able to wear a cute outfit and feel confident about yourself.
Katelyn:
Mm hmm. I also think that there's this idea that a certain body type is correlated with thigh chafing.
Brittany:
Yes.
Katelyn:
Just a lot of miscommunication with that and stigma. And the reality is, just like we've acknowledged, there are many body types that struggle with this.
Brittany:
Exactly.
Katelyn:
Let's walk through the journey of somebody who's kind of up against a wall- maybe thinking I need a product to help me with this because it’s really uncomfortable. What are the benefits of using a product like yours and being able to live life without having your thighs chafe anymore? What's on the other side?
Brittany:
It really is honestly living their best life. There was a point where- I mean, if you don't mind me telling a story, it’s kind of how the product came about- my sister and I, we went tailgating at a Dolphins game. And we were having a good old time, but it was kind of like, first of all, you think, what do I wear? And so she put on a dress, and had to put on biker shorts underneath. And they were a little tight. And so she went into a bathroom, as we all do when you're tailgating. And she's in there for a really long time. She's probably gonna kill me for telling the story, but that's fine. So she's in it for a really long time. And I'm like, What is happening? She comes out, she's all sweaty, she's pale, she looks like she is gonna pass out. I'm like, are you okay? She's like, honestly, I had to wear biker shorts underneath my dress, because of chafing and it was hard to get them back up. And she felt like she was gonna pass out because they were too tight. And all this and that's when I was like, there's got to be a better way. I feel like when somebody wears this, they are going to initially be a little bit nervous. You know, they're gonna be like, Wait, how do I do this, there's three ways to put it on.But if you just got it, use the QR code on the package. People don't know about this product, because there's nothing else like it. So you're gonna put it on, you're gonna wear your cute dress, you're gonna feel so confident you're not even going to think about thigh chafing. And at the end of the day, you're going to be like, wow, honestly, that was amazing, because I didn't have to worry about what I looked like or how I felt that day.
Katelyn:
Yeah, so the mental freedom that you have.
Brittany:
My god it's great. It's incredible. My one friend Jackie, she goes that was the best part about wearing them is I didn't have to think about my thighs burning. Or like, Hey, I can only stay at a party for two to three hours because you know, at that time, you start thinking like, Oh gosh, that's really bad or like even going to an amusement park- any of that, it's incredible. Because it's sweat proof as well. So it's like, you know, even if it's 60 or 70 degrees out, your thighs are rubbing together, if you're wearing shorts, stress, you know any of that stuff. And you don't have to think about it, you can really enjoy your day, you can really enjoy the person that you are, the confident person that you are, and hanging around with your family and friends. It's great,
Katelyn:
Well it sounds like it gives you more freedom to step into that confidence. Because the mental preoccupation isn't there anymore, and you can really just be in the moment and enjoy your life. But the amazing part of this conversation too, is the community around this product as well. It sounds like you're really creating a culture for crushing shame and owning your body and your confidence and owning your truth and not being ashamed of who you are, what your body is. Small, big, curvy, any of that is just beautiful. All of It's beautiful.
Brittany:
And that's what people have to realize, it's just an easier way to wear a cute outfit, and not have to
worry about any of that.
Katelyn:
So tell us about the behind the scenes of starting this product. We know where the idea came from now, by way of your sister and her experience, but what was the next step for you that actually got the wheels in motion for you to create this.
Brittany:
So I was trying to license the product over the pandemic. And I take a licensing course, in all my free time. Just kidding. I take this course like when I'm on flights, when I'm in a hotel, you know, and I have a mentor coach. And that really, really helps. And so I was trying to license it over the pandemic. And really with licensing, what nobody knows is when you have a great idea, you get a provisional patent on it. And you shop it to companies, and you say this is my idea. Are you interested? There were so many companies that came back to me saying this is such a great product, but not right now. This isn't the right time. COVID COVID COVID. So, you know, I'm in Orlando at my hotel, thinking there's got to be another way, there's got to be another way. So I decided that I was going to put some skin into the game and I was going to manufacture it because I honestly felt like I needed this product. It had been two years of trying to get things together with you know, working a full time crazy schedule and everything. So I said I'm not gonna do it anymore. I'm just gonna manufacturer. And so I found a manufacturer with the help of my friend Rodrigo. And we just kind of got everything together and started the shipment. I think they started at the very beginning of the summer. So June. And we started getting people the product, I think maybe at the beginning of July. And it kind of took off from there. We went on Tik Tok and we went viral. And we had 1.4 million views on one of our Tik Toks. And it was incredible, because I had it linked up to Shopify. And Shopify would just keep Ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, and I'm like, What is happening?I was like, looking down. I'm like, Oh my gosh, like that Tik Tok was like just going crazy. And the sales were just going. And my heart was just so full at that point, because I knew that women, men, people needed this product. And I just proved it. And I was just like, you know, I can help so many people with this. I mean, it's just so exciting to hear people on Tik Tok or even our Instagram and just being like, thank you. This is amazing. I tried this product. It's so great. I can't live without it. Thank you, thank you, thank you. And I'm like, Oh my god, that just makes me so happy and so full inside. Because I'm helping. I'm helping people. It's so great.
Katelyn:
You are helping people. And I'm so glad that this product exists because this is, first of all, the problem that so many of us struggle with, and the feelings that we just talked about- the emotions around the stigma in this problem, and so many people just don't know that there are options- there are resources. And there is a product like this to actually mitigate the struggle and to really support yourself with this. And there's a community around this as well, too. So we'll link everything that you're talking about in our show notes to keep it super easy for everyone to find, including the Tik Tok video that you're talking about.
Brittany:
Yeah, definitely. There's been that one in particular, I think it was like 1.3 or 1.4 million. But then there's also some that have 350,000. And there's some that have over 5000 shares. And I'm like, that's just so amazing. Because that's just telling other people- being nice and being like, here, don't you think that you might need this?
Katelyn:
So great. I can't wait to watch this video.
Brittany:
No, yeah, of course, it is really showing people how to put it on really. And the thing is, like I said, there have been deodorants and creams that always have to be reapplied. In my instance, maybe it works for people, but it doesn't work for me. So this is the product that you put on your thigh. And you can work all day and you don't have to reapply. And that's what the video is showing is me wearing it, putting it on and going about my day and living my happy, fabulous life.
Katelyn:
That's awesome. I love it. I want to pivot into makeup and hair, because you're an expert in this and I want some tips-I would love to hear just your advice for everybody who's listening- are our thighs are not chafing anymore, we're more confident in our life. What are some simple ways that we can begin owning our confidence with our style? Just really simple ways that we can start embodying the person that we are and our self expression through hair and makeup- how would you acknowledge the first step for somebody to take with that?
Brittany:
It kind of goes back to what we had chatted about before. It's just being yourself and being your authentic self, and not really going with the trends. I mean, sometimes, these people, these girls will come to me and be like, Well, what about this? This is new, I saw this and I'm like, Oh, I don't know about that. It's kind of just going with what is your authentic self. And if you want to wear your hair wavy, free and natural then great. If you don't, if you want to put extensions- if that's what makes you feel comfortable, do it. There's so many times I've heard Well, my boyfriend doesn't like it when I wear a lot of makeup. Well do you like it? Well, if you like it, do it. And that's how I've always been.
Katelyn:
It's just about making you feel like your best self which is going to portray that to other people. And not apologizing for it. And if you don't like it, don't do it.
Brittany:
Yeah, exactly I mean there was a crazy eyebrow trend that was all wavy and crazy. And people were like coming to me. I'm like no, no girl. You do not want to but it makes you feel good. I'll do it. Okay.
Katelyn:
Yeah, really coming back to what feels good. I love that you keep expressing that in this conversation. What are some of your favorite products though? So let's just say that there's people listening who do love makeup and feel really expressed by makeup. What are some of your go-to products that you use all the time?
Brittany:
Well, I would have to say Danessa Myricks is a fabulous line. And she is all about inclusivity and has every color under the sun for foundation. So honestly her stuff is amazing. She also has eye pigments that are great and there's a lot of information out there on YouTube and Instagram and stuff where she shows you how to take care of your skin as well before putting on the foundation. Like how to prep and all of that. I'm in love- I can't wait for the day to actually have her teach us WWE makeup artists. We’re in the works of trying to have her come in and teach us her tricks. Because we just love her products so much. Yeah, and I just feel like there's so so many different products. Oh gosh it's funny because there's no high end and then there's also Morphe. Morphe eyeshadows are great and they have huge palettes. I believe they're like $30 and I mean it has all colors under the sun which is fabulous. And we also have Pat McGrath which is amazing. I mean her eyeshadows are great. Mascara is a tough one because we do a lot of waterproof. I have to say that Maybelline wins every year but it really is the greatest mascara around- the one with the pink and the green cap.
Katelyn:
Oh my God, I think that’s the one my mom still uses to this day.
Brittany:
And let me tell you a little trick. Of course we use disposables at work because we're working on different people. But at home, what you can do is you can take your wand out and bend it right before the little comb part, bend it so that you can really get into the base of your lashes and that really plumps up everything. So when you pull out the mascara right before the comb comes out, or the brush, bend it right there. And then when it comes out, then you can really get in because if not, you know sometimes it gets all over. This is where it's just really at the base. You can put it back in there, it can stay bent, get put back into there, go on to your left eye. It's amazing.
Katelyn:
Oh my god. That's a great tip. Thank you. That is really great. So I know this is true for makeup in general but for mascara does it go on differently with different eyelashes? Like is the formula of your unique eyelashes dependent on the actual mascara that you're using? Or is it kind of one size fits all?
Brittany:
For me, what really matters is the brush. I don't really feel like it has to do with the lashes in general. It's the brush and whatever brush works best with your eyelashes, then that's what you want to get. With us at WWE, like I said, we use disposables, so we have to kind of maneuver things a little bit. But once you find that right brush, amazing. What you can always do too, is what I've done before is have a mascara wand that is kind of disposable, so that you can always have it. You can buy anything on Amazon these days.
Katelyn:
Right? That's awesome. Any other makeup or hair hacks that you want to offer? If you're in a pinch, and you just need something really quick or just a way to enhance a tool that you're already using or a technique?
Brittany:
I would say two of my favorites are dry shampoo. What I like to do for myself is put the dry shampoo on, put my hair up in a bun, put a little shower cap on, let it sit, get out, and then start doing my hair. So it kind of gets a little second to soak in. And then kind of use my fingers at the top to kind of brush it in. And then you can go three days without having to shampoo your hair. And honestly, what I always tell the girls at work is we don't like fresh hair. We don't like the same day for them to wash their hair, because it doesn't stay as well. And you know, they're wrestling so we need it to stay all day. I mean, sometimes we have 12 hour days- most of the days or 12 hour days. And the dry shampoo makes it work really, really well. Also, my second hack is if you only have like two minutes to get ready, put on a set of lashes and put some lip gloss on and you're good to go.
Katelyn:
Tell me about the lashes. What are your favorite lashes that you’re using? You said put them on, so I imagine they're falsies and you're not getting eyelash extensions.
Brittany:
Eyelash extensions are a little bit much But hey, if that's your thing, go for it. But what we like is Ardell, or we also just use ones from Amazon that are demi wispy- it doesn’t make them too overpowering for your eyes because sometimes people can use too big of a lash and then you can't see their eyes. So what I always say- my trick is make sure that they fit your lash because of course they're made one size fits all and we know that's not the case. Either trim them to your lash, or what I also do sometimes too, for the girls is I cut them in half, put the one on at the end first and then lay that layer the other one kind of a little bit on top so it kind of gives it that wispy feeling of going out kind of like a little bit of a cat eye. That always works really, really well.
Katelyn:
I can't wait to try that. If you can't tell, I'm a big fan of eyelashes in general. I love the expression of makeup but I've never been a big makeup person personally, but I love eyelashes, I don't get extensions or anything. But I just think that the art of eyelashes are so fun and such an easy way to just kind of express yourself,
Brittany:
And another another trick for you as well, that I really like is you as an individual at home, I like to use the Ardell Dark Duo. I put it on my hands, put a line on my hands. And then I dip the lash in it, kind of wave it in the air a little bit. And then if you're at home, putting them on yourself, at you know a counter or where you do your makeup, put the mirror below you. So kind of put it at chest level so that your eyes are looking down while your lashes are drying because you want it to dry for about 30 to 45 seconds, then place it on then it's already tacky, and you don't make a mess.
Katelyn:
Oh my god, that is a fabulous tip. Thank you for sharing.
Brittany:
You have to let me know how it goes.
Katelyn:
I definitely will. I love this conversation so much. Like I said before, I was a fashion major. And I just love the art of expression through personal style. And that looks so different for everybody. And I just really think that it ties back to what we're talking about with your truth and your authenticity and your confidence and not apologizing for how you're showing up and existing in the world, whether that's showing up in a sack or something from Saks Fifth Avenue. You know, it really doesn't matter.
Brittany:
Exactly. As long as you love it. That's all that matters.
Katelyn:
Yeah, it's so great. I can't wait to try your product either. Where can everybody find you and connect with you, get in your community, buy this fabulous product and just be in your world?
Brittany:
Yes, so the best way probably, if you have Instagram is @thechubrubpatch. Also, if you don't have any social media, you can go to thechubrubpatch.com. And then also on Tik Tok.
Katelyn:
So The Chub Rub Patch is the product- we will link everything in the show notes to keep it super easy as well, too.
Brittany:
And everyone please let me know how you love them. I love to hear where you are, what you're wearing, and how much it has saved your lives.
Katelyn:
Yeah, and let's stop shaming thigh chafing and start opening up this conversation more since this is something that we're all struggling with. And we all need support around. Thank you so much for creating this- thank you for your truth and your story and your honesty and just sharing your personal expression today and all of the fabulous information that you've given us around makeup and confidence and just finding your tribe to be able to express yourself more in this world.
Brittany:
Well, thank you so much for having me. It's so fun. I can't wait till you try the product. Give me your address and I'll send it on its way.