Beauty & The Brain®

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP are going “behind the scenes” at Skin & Tonic—sharing what a typical day actually looks like and why the best patient experience is built from dozens of small, invisible choices.They talk about the real reason people don’t complain (they just don’t come back), how retention becomes the ultimate report card, and why going through your own “patient journey” is one of the smartest things you can do—before you spend more on marketing.You’ll also hear their honest take on different med spa models (high-touch boutique vs high-volume “factory style”), how they divide responsibilities between patient care and business operations, and the unglamorous routines that keep the clinic feeling calm, clean, and premium.If you’re a patient, this episode will change how you see your appointments. If you’re a provider or practice owner, you’ll get a practical reality check—and a lot of ideas you can apply immediately.Follow Beauty & The Brain so you don’t miss next week’s episode—and share this one with someone who loves the “how it works” side of beauty and wellness.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP take on a topic that keeps showing up in the headlines for a reason: illegal silicone injections.In this episode of Beauty & The Brain, they explain what’s actually happening when someone gets “silicone injections,” why liquid silicone is a totally different situation than silicone implants, and how complications can show up immediately—or years later through chronic inflammation, migration, infection, and even life-threatening events like embolisms.They also get real about why people still agree to it (cost, convenience, access), how FDA approval helps protect patients (even when the process is frustrating), and the simplest ways to vet your provider—including what transparency should look like in a legit treatment room.If you’ve ever considered body augmentation, or you just want to understand what’s safe vs sketchy, this one’s a must-listen.Follow Beauty & The Brain so you never miss a new episode—and share this with someone who needs the red flags before they book the wrong appointment.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP kick off 2026 with a deep-dive into the treatments they’re most excited about right now — and how to supercharge results by stacking treatments safely.This week is a practical breakdown of what they’re using at Skin & Tonic (Pace, FL) to help with skin laxity, texture, pigment, jawline/jowls, and acne scars — without chasing an “overfilled” look. Chris also explains bioregenerative aesthetics in plain language: treatments that encourage your body to rebuild collagen and elastin for more natural-looking improvement over time.You’ll hear:Why the upgraded Melia RF microneedling is a comfort + safety winWhat high-powered red light therapy can support (hair, inflammation, collagen)How NewbaSKIN hydrodermabrasion fits into glow, decongestion, and regenerative add-onsThe real story on RF microneedling “horror stories” — and how to avoid themHow skin type (Fitzpatrick scale) affects settings and safety, especially for deeper skin tonesWho should get a consult first (active infection, autoimmune flare, and more)Limited-time listener package (Beauty & The Brain)Mention “Beauty & The Brain” when booking and get 20% off the featured treatment-stacking package that combines RF microneedling + NewbaSKIN + red light therapy (valid for treatments through July 2026, per the episode). Follow the show for more weekly conversations on beauty, health, confidence, and the science behind modern aesthetics.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP are back with Allie Ballew, NP for a real-talk episode on something everyone wonders but few people know how to explain: how do you spot high-quality aesthetic work—and how do you spot the work that’s… not so great?They cover the subtle signs of beautiful treatment (hint: you often shouldn’t be able to tell), the most common giveaways like overfilled lips and filler migration, and what “facial balancing” really means when it’s done well (or when it’s pushed too far).Then the conversation turns serious: when “bad work” isn’t just about looking unnatural—it’s about patient safety. The team unpacks why certain areas—like the 11 lines—carry higher risks when treated with filler, what true informed consent should include, and why it’s always okay to ask your provider about licensure, training, product sourcing, and emergency protocols.If you’re thinking about Botox, filler, or any injectables (or you’ve had them before), this episode will help you make smarter, safer choices—and understand what great work really looks like.Follow/subscribe to Beauty & The Brain for new episodes every week with Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP are talking winter skin — why it gets dry, flaky, and irritated, and what actually helps when your barrier feels “wrecked” this time of year.They cover the sneaky culprits (hello, indoor heat + hot showers), how to adjust your home routine without overdoing it, and why winter is often the ideal season for more transformative treatments like CO₂ resurfacing, RF microneedling, and chemical peels — especially when sun exposure is lower and healing can be a bit easier.You’ll also hear their practical take on post-procedure care (including what they love, what they don’t love, and why), plus a reminder that the best “anti-aging” move is still prevention year-round.Follow Beauty & The Brain so you don’t miss next week’s episode — and share this one with a friend whose skin always freaks out when the temperature drops.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP are back for the first episode of 2026, and they’re starting the year with a refreshingly honest conversation about goals — the kind that actually reflect real life.Joined by Nurse Practitioner Allie from Skin & Tonic MedSpa, this episode explores what they’re focusing on this year: business growth, personal priorities, skincare simplification, peptides, and the evolving landscape of aesthetic medicine.Dr. Chris opens up about seriously considering a lower face and neck lift, sparking a thoughtful discussion on choosing the right provider, travel vs. local care, and what really matters when it comes to outcomes. The conversation naturally expands into leadership lessons, staffing challenges, patient experience, and why consistency often beats complexity — in skincare and in business.This episode is reflective, insightful, and full of perspective for anyone navigating growth in aesthetics, healthcare, or life in general.✨ You’ll hear about:Immediate vs. long-term goal settingBusiness growth stages in the medspa worldPeptides and patient-driven wellness trendsWhy over-exfoliating (and overcomplicating) skincare is outRegenerative and biostimulatory trends for 2026Gratitude, resilience, and lessons learned from 2025Follow Beauty & The Brain to stay up to date on future episodes covering peptides, injectables, skincare science, and what’s next in aesthetics — with real conversations from providers who live it every day.

Join Dr. Chris Croley and Nurse Practitioner Jerry Drinkard as they discuss restorative aesthetics and scar treatment. Discover how modern aesthetic procedures are changing lives, boosting confidence, and helping people overcome physical and emotional challenges. In this eye-opening episode:Learn about innovative scar treatments for acne, tummy tucks, and moreHear inspiring patient stories, including Bell's Palsy and congenital angioma casesExplore cutting-edge technologies like PRP, Neogen, and microneedlingUnderstand the difference between vanity and life-changing aesthetic proceduresGet insights on body dysmorphia and responsible aesthetic practices🔬 Trending topics covered:#RestorativeAesthetics #ScarTreatment #MedSpa #AcneScars #BellsPalsy #BodyDysmorphia #PRP #Neogen #Microneedling💡 Whether you're a provider or patient, this episode offers valuable information on the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine and how they're improving lives beyond just appearance.🔔 Subscribe for more expert insights on beauty, wellness, and cutting-edge aesthetic treatments!

Welcome to the first Beauty & The Brain episode of 2026.In this reflective and wide-ranging conversation, we rewind 2025 and unpack the ideas, stories, and challenges that shaped the year — from controversial discussions around sexual wellness to deeply personal stories of resilience and reinvention.You’ll hear:Why female sexual dysfunction is defined differently than any other medical conditionThe limitations of traditional healthcare — and why longer, more human conversations matterHow wellness retreats, community, and environment can transform both health and businessA raw, inspiring story of growing up in instability — and turning adversity into entrepreneurial successWhy the same core business principles apply everywhere, no matter the industryThis episode is thoughtful, honest, occasionally funny, and designed to make you think differently — about medicine, business, and the paths we take to get where we are.If you love conversations that blend science, wellness, entrepreneurship, and real life, this one’s for you.

It’s officially the season of Peppermint Lattes & Panic Appointments 🎄In this holiday episode of Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley and NP Jerry Drinkard sit down with NP Allie Ballew to talk about why the end of the year sends so many people into aesthetic overdrive — and how to approach holiday treatments without stress, regret, or unrealistic expectations.We cover:Why people suddenly panic about their appearance during the holidaysHow far in advance you should plan Botox and skin treatmentsWhat can still be done last-minute for a confidence boostThe psychology behind “New Year, New Me”Low-downtime treatments that actually deliver before big eventsThis episode is equal parts education, humor, and holiday reality, reminding you that aesthetics should make you feel better — not more stressed.If you’ve ever booked an appointment thinking “My party is tomorrow — help!” … this one’s for you.🎄✨ New episodes weekly. Happy Holidays from the Beauty & The Brain team.

Is spray tanning actually safe — and why does proper training matter more than the solution itself?In this episode of Beauty & The Brain, hosts Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, NP welcome Stacey Fike, founder of Glo Girl and creator of GloPro Training, to explore the science, safety, and business of modern sunless tanning.With more than two decades in the industry, Stacey explains how spray tanning has transformed into a professional, science-backed service — and why education is essential for both results and skin health.Topics covered include:How DHA works on the skinWhy spray tans do not protect against sun damageThe importance of SPF after sunless tanningHow red light therapy supports hydration and longevityWhy most spray tan mistakes happen — and how professionals prevent themHow beauty professionals scale spray tanning into profitable servicesThis episode blends science, skin health, and business strategy with real-life experiences — making it valuable for consumers and providers alike.🔗 Follow & Learn More from Stacey FikeInstagram: @glogirlspraytanWebsite: https://glopro.glogirltanning.comYouTube: @glopro2024LinkedIn: Stacey Fike GloPro

This week on Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley, NP Jerry Drinkard, and NP Allie Ballew have an unfiltered conversation about something most MedSpa owners think they’ve mastered… but rarely have a system for:👉 Clinic Culture — the real driver of patient experience, trust, retention, and referrals.They break down:• How patients instantly sense stress, chaos, or tension• Real culture missteps inside Skin & Tonic — and what they learned• Why great injectors fail without a strong support team• The difference between “customer service” and hospitality• How to hire, onboard, and train for personality alignment• Why rushed energy destroys patient confidence (even when the work is good)• How leadership sets the tone — intentionally or accidentallyIf you're an injector, MedSpa owner, manager, or anyone building a patient-facing aesthetic business, this episode will change the way you think about workflow, communication, and client care.Culture is not an afterthought. It’s your brand.

This week on Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley and NP Jerry Drinkard unpack one of the most controversial — and misunderstood — topics in aesthetics: Who is the safest, most qualified injector?A patient recently called the clinic requesting “physician-only” injections, and that simple request sparked a deep conversation about titles, training, competency, and why consumers are often confused about who should perform aesthetic procedures.You’ll learn:• The differences in education & clinical training across physicians, NPs, PAs, CRNAs, dentists & estheticians• Why scope of practice laws vary wildly from state to state• Whether titles actually predict skill or safety• How to evaluate an injector beyond credentials• What really causes complications — and who’s equipped to manage them• The rise of unsafe med spa models, poor supervision, and unlicensed injectors• Why trust, communication, and treatment approach matter more than letters behind a nameThis episode gives both consumers and aesthetic providers clarity on an issue that impacts every corner of the industry.Perfect for listeners interested in:Botox | Filler | Aesthetic injector training | Med spa education | Patient safety | Filler complications | Choosing an injector | Aesthetic industry trends | Scope of practice laws | Facial anatomy for injectors

It’s our favorite tradition—our annual “What We’re Thankful For” episode! This week, Dr. Chris Croley, Jerry Drinkard, and Allie Ballew share the heartfelt, hilarious, and totally unexpected things they’re grateful for in 2025.Inside this episode:• The weirdest things we’re thankful for (yes, Taylor Swift + countertop drama included)• Big wins at Skin & Tonic and the patients who feel like family• How GLP-1 medications are changing holiday meals• Our holiday plans, food debates, family chaos, and kitchen remodel updates• What it really means to be part of a growing aesthetic practiceIf you love candid conversations, industry insight, and a cozy dose of holiday reflection, this one’s for you.

Why does beauty look different in Miami than in the Midwest? Why is Korea the global leader in skincare, injectables, and advanced esthetic innovation? And are some beauty preferences universal—wired into the brain—regardless of where you’re born?In this week’s episode of Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley, NP Jerry Drinkard, and NP Allie Ballew unpack how culture, environment, and neuroscience influence global beauty ideals.Inside this episode, the hosts explore:The rise of Korean esthetics, glass-skin standards, and advanced injectablesHow the U.S. regions (Miami, Midwest, California) each shape their own beauty aestheticDifferences in body & intimate wellness preferences globallyWhy facial symmetry and proportion are universally attractiveThe surprising neuroscience behind how children learn what is “beautiful”What the team hopes to discover during their upcoming Asia esthetics tour (Hong Kong → Singapore)How international conferences are changing the future of U.S. injectables and skin treatmentsThis conversation blends education, humor, and clinical insight—perfect for injectors, estheticians, skincare experts, med spa owners, and beauty lovers curious about worldwide trends.If you enjoy learning about culture-driven aesthetics and the science behind beauty, make sure to:✔️ Follow the show✔️ Leave a review✔️ Share this episode with a fellow esthetic provider or beauty enthusiast

In this episode of Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley and NP Jerry Drinkard break down the most in-demand medications in modern weight loss and metabolic health: GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide, tirzepatide, Wegovy, Ozempic, and Zepbound.Together, they explore how these drugs actually work, who they help most, and the unexpected ways they impact the body far beyond weight loss.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:How GLP-1 medications regulate appetite, cravings, inflammation & blood sugarThe shift from compounded semaglutide to manufacturer-direct optionsWhy some patients experience fertility changes, libido shifts, hair thinning & mood effects The rise of microdosing GLP-1s to reduce nausea, fatigue & muscle lossAnti-aging and neuroprotective research emerging around GLP-1 therapyWhy rapid weight loss accelerates facial aging—and how Sculptra can help preserve structureHow exercise, protein intake & body composition affect long-term resultsWhether you're a patient using GLP-1 therapy or a provider prescribing it, this episode offers evidence-based insight, real patient experiences, and practical solutions for navigating side effects and treatment longevity.Follow Beauty & The Brain for weekly conversations on aesthetic medicine, regenerative wellness, weight-loss science, and the future of medical aesthetics.GLP-1, semaglutide, tirzepatide, Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, medical weight loss, aesthetic medicine, Sculptra, microdosing GLP-1

Do “pretty people” really have an advantage in life, work, and relationships? In this episode of Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley and NP Jerry Drinkard unpack the psychology, neuroscience, and cultural patterns behind beauty bias — the unconscious (and sometimes unfair) preference society gives to more attractive individuals.You’ll hear real-world examples from the exam room to the workplace, plus surprising research on how facial symmetry, grooming, hair color, and even skin tone influence trustworthiness, leadership perceptions, hiring decisions, and sentencing severity. They also explore how beauty standards vary across cultures, how social media reinforces appearance-driven expectations, and whether medical aesthetics fuels confidence or pressure.If you’ve ever wondered why certain faces are universally seen as “beautiful,” how injectables play into modern beauty ideals, or why blondes are perceived differently than brunettes, this episode delivers science-backed answers with humor and nuance.Topics Include:• How beauty bias forms — even in childhood• Why symmetry & even skin tone influence perceived health• How grooming affects job interviews & first impressions• Do attractive people get better career opportunities?• Why beauty helps men professionally but works against some women• Regional & cultural differences in beauty standards• Are blondes seen as less intelligent?• How aesthetic treatments enhance presentation & confidenceWhether you’re an injector, beauty professional, or simply fascinated by social psychology, this conversation offers data-driven insight into how aesthetics shape our lives.

This week on Beauty & The Brain, Dr. Chris Croley, NP Jerry Drinkard, and NP Allie Ballew tackle common aesthetic misconceptions—perfect for Halloween season.From the fear that Botox is toxic or “kills empathy,” to worries that dermal filler always looks fake, the hosts break down the science behind the most persistent myths in cosmetic medicine. They also explore Vampire Facial & Vampire Facelift (PRP) treatments, collagen-stimulating procedures, platelet-derived growth factors, and how expectations differ across age groups and skin quality.Whether you’re an injector, beauty professional, or just curious about regenerative aesthetics, this episode offers clear, practical insight into the truth behind non-surgical cosmetic procedures.✅ Topics CoveredBotox “poison” + safety mythsNeurotoxins + empathy claimsWill filler make you look overdone?Understanding Vampire Facials + PRPCollagen stimulation + timelinesPlatelet-derived growth factor (ariessence)Does Botox affect sexual function?Do you have to keep getting Botox forever?✅ Featured ProceduresBotox / Dysport / XeominHyaluronic acid fillerPRP / PDGFVampire Facial & Vampire FaceliftMicroneedlingNew episodes every week — subscribe + leave a review!#Aesthetics #BeautyAndTheBrainPodcast #BotoxFacts #DermalFillers #PRP #RegenerativeAesthetics #VampireFacial #SkinHealth #CosmeticSafety

In this episode, Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard tackle one of the biggest controversies in aesthetics right now — PDGF (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor). Is it a breakthrough or a legal gray zone? From under-eye rejuvenation to hair growth and even sexual wellness, this episode breaks down what PDGF is, how it compares to PRP and PRF, and why it has injectors across the country debating safety, science, and ethics.💉 You’ll learn:What PDGF actually does in the skinThe difference between topical and injectable useReported results (and side effects) from real providersWhy safety and science must always come firstWhether you’re an injector, provider, or curious listener, this candid conversation gives you the facts, the risks, and the real-world experience behind the hype.

Dr. Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard, hosts of Beauty & The Brain, sit down to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, think, and even connect emotionally. In this first part of a two-part series, they unpack the rise of AI therapy, AI relationships, and how platforms like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Podium’s Avery are already influencing both business and personal life.Guest Ashley, a Navy mom, shares her experience using AI as a therapy tool—from parenting challenges to emotional support—revealing both the comfort and limitations of relying on a machine for understanding and guidance.Listeners will gain insights into the psychology of AI companionship, the ethics of digital intimacy, and how AI technology is already woven into daily life—whether we realize it or not.🧠 In This Episode:How AI therapy and chatbots provide emotional supportReal patient stories using AI for mental health and stress reliefAI in medspa business operations and marketingThe blurred line between connection and codePreview of Part Two: AI intimacy and digital relationships

Is “crunchy” the new cool — or just confusing? 🥦💉In this lively episode of Beauty & The Brain, hosts Dr. Chris Croley and Nurse Practitioner Jerry Drinkard are joined by Allie Ballew, NP, for a candid conversation about crunchy culture, clean living, and where we all draw the line between “natural” and “necessary.”They unpack the modern contradictions we all live with — from drinking Diet Coke and loving street hot dogs to choosing clean skincare and toxin-free beauty. The trio dives deep into what “natural” really means in the aesthetic industry and how patients often confuse natural results with natural ingredients.💡 In this episode, you’ll hear:🌿 What “crunchy living” means (and who really qualifies)🧴 The truth behind “clean beauty” and “natural injectables”💉 How patients decide what’s “safe” or “toxic” in aesthetics🍔 Why some unhealthy habits are just worth it🧠 How social media, celebrity marketing, and “Dr. ChatGPT” shape modern health beliefsWhether you’re a provider trying to navigate patient preferences or a consumer striving for balance, this episode will help you see that wellness is personal — and it’s okay to pick your battles.🎙️ Subscribe for more real, relatable conversations on aesthetics, wellness, beauty culture, and modern medicine.