Holding many titles and wearing many hats, Molly Sims is the founder of YSE Beauty, founder and producer of Something Happy Productions, co-host of Lipstick on the Rim, actress, model, author, humanitarian, mother, and more. Is there anything she can’t do?! We’re thrilled to be taking a seat with beauty, fashion, and lifestyle expert Molly Sims today on the blog to chat about her journey, businesses, and what inspires her. So without further ado…
a conversation with Molly…
1
Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are now.
I always joke that I have reinvented myself nine times in my life so far. So it’s hard to quickly explain how I got to where I am because there are so many facets involved. But, I’ll try my best!
My professional journey started when one of my friends at Vanderbilt University introduced me to a photographer who asked to take some modeling portfolio images for me. I really didn’t expect much, but I ended up sending the photos to some modeling agencies in New York. Two weeks later, I was meeting with top tier agencies! A week after that, I signed with Next Management, a model and talent management agency. Soon after, I began traveling across Europe, modeling and walking in shows.
Amidst my modeling career taking off, my agent called me to audition for an upcoming pilot, Las Vegas. I didn’t feel super sure about it, but I went for the experience. I ended up booking it, but my agent was pretty skeptical that it would get picked up. When it ended up getting picked up, I was told my character, Delinda, would be in 8 episodes. I ended up shooting seven seasons, and it is one of the most special experiences I’ve had to this day.
Fast forward — I met my husband Stuber and I’m now a mother to three kids, two dogs, and a bearded dragon! I’m the founder of YSE Beauty, founder and producer of Something Happy Productions, co-host of Lipstick on the Rim, and am a full-time sports mom on top of all of that!
2
What inspires you? What factors have played roles in the development of your personal brand and corresponding business ventures?
Inspiration comes from all over the place for me and it’s truly never-ending. Honestly, it’s often in the little things: a quiet morning alone, exploring a new place, or even a candid moment with friends. I’m constantly so inspired by the amazing people I encounter throughout my journey. Seeing and being around other people’s passion and creativity motivates me to push my own limits. Who you surround yourself with has such a direct impact on you. I always look to be in a positive environment and strive to be the good energy other people look for in their own lives, too.
3
Between your work as founder, producer, podcast host, actress, model, humanitarian, author, mother, and more, you’re juggling quite a lot! Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.
I’m basically trying to fit 48 hours of work into a 24 hour day all the time. Usually I wake up at 6:00am and have (maybe) an hour to myself. I always try to do some scrolling on Daily Mail to stay up to date and do my face rolling. If I have time in the morning, I’ll try to get a quick workout in, and if not, I’ll find some other time in the day. Something I’ve learned is that it doesn’t have to be a long or rigorous workout for it to make a difference. I just do what I can with the time I have and it makes me feel great! I quickly do my skincare and get ready for the day before getting the kids ready for school. The rest of my days look different from there, but you’ll probably catch me in a YSE Beauty meeting, a Lipstick on the Rim pitch session, or somewhere on set for my next project with Something Happy Productions. There’s always so much going on, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! Brooks, Scarlett, and Grey always have some sort of practice after school, so when they’re finally home I try to log off of everything work-related. Nighttime is when everyone is in the house together and that’s really when we get a lot of quality family time in.
4
How do you seek to incorporate balance in your life?
Finding balance in my life is still an ongoing journey, but I’ve definitely gotten much better at it! My family is always my number one priority and what gets the most time and energy. That’ll never change.
I think the balancing act comes into play (which can be difficult at times) mostly as it relates to work. I have so many projects going on for each of my endeavors, so splitting my time between each of them is a struggle. Building a routine is something that’s really helped me manage my time well, but also it’s been good for me mentally. I’ve learned how to allocate my time efficiently and always do my best to strike that balance!
5
You’re passionate about bringing joy and honesty into every corner of the beauty-related space. Could you elaborate a bit more on this philosophy?
I believe that true beauty comes from feeling comfortable in your own skin. Confidence comes from within! My approach to beauty is about celebrating individuality and promoting products that genuinely work, enhancing natural beauty. I started YSE Beauty because I was struggling with my skin and couldn’t find clean, effective products that worked for me. By being honest and transparent, I aim to build trust and provide solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives.
6
What advice would you give other women leaders in the business world?
Stay true to yourself and to your vision. Embrace your unique strengths. Remain focused on your dreams, but be adaptable in the face of challenges. Surround yourself with supportive people and always look for opportunities to learn from others. Make time for self-care. Remember that success is not just about achieving goals, but also about enjoying the journey and making a positive impact along the way. And honestly, this goes for all women, in every aspect of life, not just those pursuing business.
7
What are you most proud of in regards to building your career, family, and/or lifestyle?
I’m so proud and feel extremely lucky to have been able to blend my career with my personal life. Building businesses while nurturing my family has been challenging, yet the most fulfilling journey. I’m proud of the work I do and the positive influence it has on others. Most importantly, I’m proud of the values I’ve upheld and the example I’ve set for my children in pursuing their passions and always being kind.
8
Do you have any beauty tips and tricks you could share with us?
A lot of the time, less is more! When it comes to skincare, I swear by our YSE Beauty routine that’s just a few steps. It doesn’t take up a lot of time in daily routines, but is so effective and makes such a big difference for your skin. As for makeup, I love products that are a 2-in-1 like a lip and cheek duo or my IT Cosmetics CC Cream Foundation that also has SPF.
9
What’s next for you? How do you hope to see the impact of your work take form?
With YSE Beauty, I’m working on developing new products that continue to enhance natural beauty and fit seamlessly into people’s lives. I’m also diving deeper into film production with Something Happy Productions and we’ve got some really exciting projects in the pipeline that I can’t wait to share! As for Lipstick on the Rim, I don’t see us slowing down anytime soon, and I look forward to future episodes with guests who, like us, aim to empower women with knowledge.
rapid fire with Molly…
1
Favorite way to relax and unwind?
Any chance I get, I try to unplug. It’s so important to take time for myself to recharge, which is essential for maintaining overall well-being and productivity. I just put it all away and enjoy family time.
2
One product that’s always in your bag?
I always have my YSE Beauty Overachiever Brightening Eye Masks – they hydrate, de-puff, brighten, and plump. This is my secret weapon for looking my best while out there overachieving. They stay on through literally anything… early mornings, workouts, sports games, you name it!
3
Favorite place to spark inspiration?
Hiding from my kids in a pantry or closet… just kidding! But really, I usually tend to find inspiration in solitude. I spent a huge part of my 20’s and 30’s solo traveling internationally for work, and those long plane rides and solo trips sparked some of my most powerful ideas. I absolutely loved exploring Paris, New York, and even Morocco, alone because it allows me to truly be present and take in my environment without any distractions. It also forces me to check in with myself and clear my mind, which in turn, allows me to explore new ideas.
4
Favorite space in your home?
My kitchen. It’s always filled with so much love and joy. It’s kind of the hangout spot for the family, so we spend a lot of time there together. It’s where we have dinner, where the kids do their homework, and where I take some meetings. When friends come over, we make some pretty great drinks together. It’s nice to have that cozy and comforting space in your home where people can gather and share a good laugh.
5
Go-to coffee/tea order?
It depends on what I’m in the mood for, but I’ve been switching between an almond milk latte and a hot matcha latte with almond milk. I’m also sipping on bone broth all day which is delicious and so nutritious.