An Interview with Plant Based Model & Make Up Artist, Sabrina Podolak!

Today I got to sit down with my friend Sabrina, plant-based model and make up artist. Obviously I knew her. But I wanted to share what I find so interesting, kind, and inspirational about her with you. As most of you know, my mission has always been to touch others lives in a positive way and if I can make a difference in just one person's life I've succeeded. Sabrina is on that same mission. I hope that her story can help you now and/or in the future. Visit her website for fantastic recipes and tips. Meet Sabrina...

Have you always lived a plant-based lifestyle?

No! Growing up we lived on fast food. I started modeling in 2009 and was given the book Skinny Bitch by a friend who was in the business. The goal was to get me to eat a little healthier because not everyone does when they're in that business. After reading the book, I went vegetarian. (If you're familiar with the book there's a lot of information about animal cruelty and suffering in food production.) The thought of eating animals... I just couldn't do it. So I changed the way I ate. But I was still eating a lot of really processed foods. Then I just began to dive into more real whole foods and how I could make my plant based diet more nutritious.

You mentioned you started modeling in 2009 did you always want to be a model?

Yes I really did. I received my cosmetology license and love doing make up. I love being in that field. I had pictures done and started working in 2009.

What is your most exciting or most proud modeling gig?

Definitely the cover of the catalog Mac Duggal. It was my first real job. It was a great learning experience, tons of fun and hard work.

Share one tidbit or piece of advice to all the young girls who want to model? Find a good agency so that you're not taken advantage.

Don't be afraid to say no to certain jobs.

And be prepared to see stunning beautiful girls. Don't compare… you're unique.

Back to food, what are your top nutrition tips?

Definitely stay away from processed foods and added sugar. Try to eat more real food. Add in movement, some kind of movement, daily even if it's walking. I try to work out with weights 3 to 4 times a week. Then I will take my dog Ellie for a walk after dinner. It's all about finding balance.

What is your favorite food?

Pizza! You can find a recipe for my vegan pizza on the website. It has tomato sauce, cashew cream, mushrooms and basil.

Well, I will add you made this for me and it is fabulous!

What would someone who ran into you at the grocery store find in your cart?

Definitely bananas for my smoothies. Almond milk, avocado, spinach. Lots of fruits and veggies... and protein powder!

Do you supplement your diet with anything else nutritionally?

Yes, being vegan I do a B 12 daily. I also take vitamin D, and extra vitamin C when I've been around someone who is sick or during the winter months.

You look amazing. What about any model skin care secrets to share? (Laughing) I really keep it pretty simple. I wash my face and moisturize. And lately I've been using essential oils. As far as make up I love Tarte, and Kat Von D Beauty is vegan-based. I also like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics.

So I know that you recently began the nutrition program at the Institute for integrative nutrition where I also went to school. What made you make that choice?

just love helping people reach their goals and if I can help one person struggle less that would make me happy and satisfied.

In 10 years where do you see yourself?

Hmm... I see myself building/creating something that gives me the freedom to work wherever and whenever I want, and to be creative in my own way.

What are your biggest dreams?

I would LOVE to live near the ocean!! Haha how cliche. But seriously, I would love to build a community and to help as many people as I can along their health journeys.

Tell me about your website?

Yes there are recipes, lifestyle tips and beauty tips. I really wanted it to be a place where people can go that's a simple and easy place, and fun, to access great information.

How can people get a hold of you?

They can visit the website , and click on the contact tab. Email me directly at sabrina.podolak@gmail.com. Or check out my IG account @camerareadylifestyle.

I just love her! And here is another of my favorites, besides her pizza recipe, that you'll die for as much as I do!! You can thank me later.