Issuu

M AY 2 02 1

C ATC H I N G U P W ITH

Camila Alves McConaughey

LI F E + C U LTU R E C EL EB R AT I N G AUS T I N'S F EM AL E REN EG AD ES S T Y LE + B E AUT Y M O T H ER 'S DAY S T Y L E I D E AS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Jennifer Birn | jennifer.birn@lifestylepubs.com

CELEBRATING ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMEN OF AUSTIN

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor

…WITH AN ISSUE THAT IS 100 PERCENT FEMALE AND PROVES THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. This month, we’re shining a light on females among us who deserve a spotlight. Women like our cover star Camila Alves McConaughey, who dedicates a good percentage of her creativity and time to cultivating community. She does this via her lifestyle website Women of Today and the just keep livin’ Foundation she launched more than a decade ago with husband Matthew McConaughey. We talked to Amy Jo Martin, who achieved success early launching one of the first social media companies, where she started social media accounts for people like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. But, she's shared she got burnt out and felt physically and emotionally bankrupt. She recharged, wrote a book and now teaches a course for women that provides them with tools to evolve their businesses and keep their heads above water. A major key: community. We introduce you to a few Austinites who have done or are currently in her Renegade Accelerator program as well as Rosanna Godden, who was at the heart of the Whole Foods acquisition by Amazon and recently became CFO of Super Coffee, Sarah Puil, who puts

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

premium wine in wooden boxes (that can be upcycled into a bird feeder!), Korman’s Kat

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Stokes, who helps women sparkle not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

The hardest part about compiling this issue was that we didn’t have pages to include

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

even more of the many miraculous ladies who populate this city. In Austin the entrepre-

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

neurial spirit of its women runs high and strong.` I couldn’t be more proud to be part of it. I hope you enjoy this issue and find inspiration from the wisdom of the women included. Cheers,

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Jennifer Birn, Editor

PS: June’s issue celebrates the gentlemen of Austin!

NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA

CityLifestyle.com/Austin ON THE COVER Camila Alves McConaughey PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESTY OF RH 4

Austin Life | May 2021

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6 Austin Life™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Austin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Austin Life™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 08 Women on Top 8 women exemplifying Austin’s strong entrepreneurial spirit

22 Inside the Colton House Interior designer Patrice Rios shares the stunning results of this elaborate project

28 Catching Up with Camila We talked about the power of community, self-care, her Austin favorites and more.

28 08

40 Mother's Day Style An ensemble idea for however you spend your day

40 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Inspired By

36 Trend Setter 40 Local’s Choice 42 Local Limelight

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INSPIRED BY

AU ST IN

R EN EG A DES PHENOMENAL WOMEN TURNING IDEAS INTO ACTION ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN

Austin Life | May 2021

HE ENTREPRENEURIAL ENERGY IN AUSTIN IS TANGIBLE.

Female founders and creators are prolific and increasingly cultivating community to help each other succeed. This is especially evident in Austinite Amy Jo Martin’s Renegade Accelerator, a program she designed to elevate and propel women in business through education and commu-

nity. “It’s the career love of my life,” Martin says, sharing that the biggest common struggle she finds most women have is, “Their relationship with time.” She believes the solution is, “To find that place where purpose, passion and skill collide,” explaining, “There’s a sweet spot in that intersection and it’s not something you find, it’s something you create. Delegating and focusing on what you’re uniquely qualified to do is key.”

FAVORITE QUOTE:

“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Abraham Lincoln. Martin has started and successfully exited companies, made profitable investments and wrote New York Times best-selling book. She’s happily married to a spouse who not only supports her ambitions, but helps her produce them and she’s mom to a healthy baby boy born at just 27 weeks. She’s currently working on her second book, hosts a popular podcast and invests much

A MY J O M A RT IN

of her time (and often money) into women in the accelerator. It’s where she’s found the intersection of where her purpose, passion and skill collided, and it’s where she’s found her bliss. But, she admits that it’s a moving target that needs constant refinement. “Your intuition is the best GPS you will ever have in getting you where you want to go,” she says.” You have an opportunity to optimize the GPS every single day. It’s a daily practice that compounds over time.” By the end of the 2021 nearly 200 women will have gone through the accelerator. The mosaic of women include Global SVPs, VC’s, PhD’s and even an Army Colonel who is also an orthopedic surgeon. You can find Martin on social media @amyjomartin, learn about the accelerator at http://RenegadeAccelerator.com and tune

Founder/Investor/Author/

in to her podcast, Why Not Now? for regular doses of inspiration. We caught up with seven other entrepre-

Podcast Host/Creator of

neurial Austin-based women, including five

Renegade Accelerator

each shared bits of wisdom.

who are Renegade Accelerator grads, who CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

A LYS H A LIGHT

Founder of FLIGHT PR and co-founder of Joint PR HOW DID GROWING UP IN FOSTER CARE TEACH YOU (OR INSPIRE YOU) TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR? When we think about youth who are growing up in the foster care system, we often think about the tragedies and the dismal statistics about where foster kids end up. But there are undeniable skills you learn: for instance, how to be resilient (you don’t really have a choice as it’s the only way to survive the chaos); the importance of self-advocacy (everyone needs to learn this skill regardless of their upbringing); and listening to your intuition. These are just three of the skills I really lean on that have helped me thrive as an entrepreneur. WHAT KIND OF CLIENTS DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN? I specialize in working with high-growth startups. But over the course of my career, I’ve worked with world-class companies like Google, Match Group, Samsung, and Taco Bell. I always joke that I’m industry agnostic. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Being able to tell stories about entrepreneurs and the businesses they lead is the reason why I do what I do and why I’ve had my business for eight years now. Doing PR is not for the faint of heart and it can be emotionally and mentally taxing, but it’s wonderful to play a role in helping founders grow their business. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT AUSTIN? The feeling that I’m right in the heart of where so much development and innovation is happening. There’s also a sense of community here, the food is great and the people are really nice.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

“When you get, give. When you learn, teach.” —Maya Angelou 10

Austin Life | May 2021

WHAT PART OF THE BUSINESS DO

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED AS

FAVORITE QUOTE:

YOU OVERSEE?

AN ENTREPRENEUR?

“CELEBRATE every day!”

I help with anything and everything but

There’s way more to owning a business than

officially I oversee the marketing and buying.

meets the eye. But it’s so rewarding to build

We hand select every piece of our multi-mil-

something you believe in and to use it as a vehi-

lion dollar inventory so it keeps me busy!

cle to support the community that supports us.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR

My favorite part of what we do is cele-

20-YEAR-OLD SELF?

brating with our clients, finding the perfect

To pick a major based on passion and not

piece and presenting it to create a memo-

employability. And follow your heart, not your

rable experience. Helping to commemorate

head/money. Money will come if your heart is

everything from a Tuesday afternoon to life’s

in it. Lean into the fun and enjoy the ride.

milestones is such an honor that brings so much joy to our lives and hearts.

See everything currently sparkling at Korman at https://kormanfinejewelry.com. CONTINUED >

Fine Jewerly

K AT STO K ES

Co-Owner of Korman

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED) WHEN DID TAXTAKER LAUNCH?

ARI PA L M ER

Late 2018 HOW MANY START-UPS DO YOU ESTIMATE YOU’VE HELPED SO FAR? 250+ WHAT’S YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE STARTING A COMPANY? It’s been equal parts the most challenging and stressful as well as the most satisfying, and the most growth I’ve experienced in my entire life. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN? Austin is extra special in that wherever you might be from everyone adheres to this universal good vibe. There really is something for everyone here, and people genuinely want to see others do well. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? You are going to change your mind, doubt yourself, be impatient and think you need to figure everything out about your life 1000 times over and that’s OKAY. Your grit, determination, and openness to new experiences will pay off. Most of all, the faster you accept that you are uniquely you the better.

Founder & CEO of TaxTaker

Being you is more than enough, it’s extraordinary. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKE AWAY (SO FAR) FROM THE RENEGADE ACCELERATOR? It’s so motivating to know that you have a tribe of badass entrepreneurs that are helping each other be a part of something so much bigger than

JULES WEB B ER

each of us individually.

WHAT KIND OF LIFE COACH ARE YOU? I’m the cheerleader and expert guide that every woman wishes she had in her love life and career. I specialize in intimacy and relationships. WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I’m personally proud of how I’ve built a fast-growing business while taking care of my health. I’ve learned to listen to my body as I follow my ambition, even if it means slowing down, and I feel grateful to be teaching my daughters the same thing. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN? Walking to Uchiko for happy hour with my friends, or to Taco Deli with my kids after playing at Ramsey Park. Sunset runs around Lady Bird Lake. The outstanding entrepreneurs here doing meaningful work. The sense of community in this city is inspiring. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM THE RENEGADE ACCELERATOR? The Renegade Accelerator expanded my idea of what I was capable of. Working alongside other women entrepreneurs supporting one another, anchoring in our purpose together, kept me on the path I wanted to set for myself. Learn more: at http://juleswebber.com or find her on Instagram @juleswebber 12

Austin Life | May 2021

Life Coach

ROBIN DOCHEN AT WO O D WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF FOCUS? Public health and health promotion. WHAT IS A LONG-TERM GOAL? I’m growing my consulting business, Emerging Perspectives. Our three-woman partnership creates space for all perspectives to be acknowledged, for people to seek to understand rather than agree, and to develop a clear path for action toward what matters most. Our approach builds the capacities of openness, curiosity, imagination, focus, and reflection, which we consider essential for thriving in today’s world. WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Personally: My family! My husband and I have raised two incredible daughters who are defining their own trajectories. Professionally: I’ve developed and led diverse teams whose work has positively impacted the health of communities throughout Texas. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN? I live close to Barton Springs and Lady Bird Lake. Being able to walk (or run) out the door and be minutes from one of the most beautiful running trails in the country is hard to beat! WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKE AWAY (SO FAR) FROM THE RENEGADE ACCELERATOR? This experience has forced me out of my com-

Research Professor at University of Texas

fort zone, creating an unbelievable opportunity to learn and grow with other like-minded women.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

“There are no problems, only opportunities for growth." – Rebbetzin Dena Weinberg CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

LI Z M AT T H E WS DELL WAS ONE OF THE FIRST MAJOR TECH COMPANIES TO HEADQUARTER IN AUSTIN. Dell was founded in a University of Texas dorm room in 1984 and we were one of the first to spark today’s rapidly growing tech scene in the Austin area - we’re so proud of that. YOU’VE BEEN AT DELL FOR THE BETTER PART OF A DECADE, WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? By far, it’s the human connection, human connection within our four walls at Dell Technologies and the human connection our brand has with the world. WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE GROWTH OF THE AUSTIN TECH MARKET? I could not be more excited. Diversity of thought and the new innovation that comes from it is how we’ll continue to see the city thrive for years to come – the more people and companies working towards that, the better. I don’t look at it like competition. To me, it’s truly about expanding our community. We just hope they appreciate the queso here as much as we do! WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A WOMAN WHO WANTS TO EXCEL IN TECH? Though it may sound cliché, it really is all about finding your tribe. Don’t underestimate the power of human connection to help you succeed. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN? Without question, I love the energy of the city the most. It truly is unmatched and lends itself naturally to innovation and creativity. Austin is also one of the most open, authentic cities I’ve ever visited or lived in – one of those places where you can truly be yourself.

Austin Life | May 2021

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR

FAVORITE QUOTE:

20-YEAR-OLD SELF?

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

Don’t stress about the future because the joy truly lives in the journey of life. WHAT PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Personally, my biggest accomplishment is being a stepmom. It’s a relationship that you truly have to earn, grow, and cultivate. In a lot of ways, it’s made me a better leader in how I connect with people and my broader team.

SVP of Global Brand, Creative & Experiential Marketing at Dell Technologies

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

ROSANNA G O D D EN

CFO Super Coffee 16

Austin Life | May 2021

YOU RECENTLY TOOK THE REIGNS AS CFO OF SUPER COFFEE. WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THAT COMPANY/ROLE? I have spent the last ten plus years of my career involved in large multi-national companies. When I met the Super Coffee team I was very excited to hear about their vision for the company. It was clear from my first meeting with Jim (the CEO) that the Super Coffee team was one I would personally enjoy working with and the company is going to go places fast. With my prior roles with Amazon, Starbucks, and Whole Foods I knew I would be a great fit and that I could make a direct impact at Super Coffee fairly quickly. WHEN YOU WERE AT AMAZON YOU OVERSAW THEIR ACQUISITION OF WHOLE FOODS! THAT’S HUGE. The Whole Foods Market acquisition was a great opportunity to disrupt an entire industry with a single transaction and it has been a great success for all involved, including me. I was very involved in the nuts and bolts and it was a major personal accomplishment of mine to bring the transaction over the finish line. Ultimately, it also brought me to Austin as a member of the Whole Foods team! WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE BEING A WOMAN IN FINANCE?

The Best Cupcakery and Coffee Shop in Austin! 512.335.7746 | www.cupprimo.com 8650 SPICEWOOD SPRINGS ROAD SUITE 105 AUSTIN, TX 78759

Finance is a fast-paced challenging environment regardless of your gender. I have always strived to work hard and smart by building solid relationships with my colleagues. Many financial professionals struggle to develop the interpersonal relationships and balance the commercial side of the business. By focusing on these softer skills, I have found greater opportunities. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR WOMEN WHO WANT TO PURSUE A CAREER IN FINANCE? Work hard and work smart. You will have all of the opportunities you deserve through persistence and results. If someone tells you that you cannot achieve something, double down your efforts and you will be successful. I have made my biggest steps in my career when someone told me I couldn’t do it. Additionally, when someone offers you an opportunity, say yes. I have always been pleasantly surprised at the unique and interesting roles that have come across my desk just by being open to new opportunities. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Being able to make a positive impact. I enjoy building new teams and leading transformational initiatives that drive value across the entire organization. WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU LOVE ABOUT AUSTIN? I love Austin’s live music venues and the added bonuses of great food, warm climate, and family friendly activities.

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CityLifestyle.com/Austin

d o n '’ t j u d g e a b o x by its number ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BOXT

BOXT IS PREMIUM WINE IN A WOODEN BOX THAT LASTS FOR 30 DAYS ONCE CRACKED FIRST, FORGET YOUR PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS

A rose is on the way. Customers take a quiz that

ABOUT BOXED WINE. BOXT isn’t your cardboard box

matches them with a specific profile named 1 through

cheap wine. Next, let go of your attachment (or adversity)

6 and given the option to buy a box/month, which is

to a certain kind of wine, you’ll only find varieties by num-

the equivalent of four bottles of wine, for $69, or two

bers at BOXT, and it’s by design.

boxes for $130. The grapes are sourced from all over

BOXT is a direct-to-consumer wine subscription service that offers six profiles, three white and three red.

Austin Life | May 2021

the world, the wine is made in Napa and the company is headquartered in Austin.

After a successful corporate career, founder Sarah Puil formulated the idea for BOXT during an entrepreneur-in-residence with Mike Smerklo of Next Coast Ventures. She started shipping October 2020. Of the unique recyclable wood box she says, “The packaging

And, don’t get hung up having to order by number. Puil says, “It

is my personality. I like things, clean, simple and not intrusive” She

gives you permission to like what you like without stigmas asso-

also said she wanted to do a wood box to signal that it’s a premium

ciated with how things are supposed to taste. Sometimes people

product. “There’s no reason premium wine has to be in a bottle,”

surprise themselves.”

she says, “This is a wine you should drink when you get it, not keep

To other female founders she says, “Just be a founder. We all have

in your cabinet for 10 years, but it is a premium wine. We want to be

things that can be perceived as hurdles and I think if you focus on the

your house wine.” Once you open the box it can last for 30+ days! A

problem that you’re solving and how you can solve it more efficiently

lot more than a bottle’s typical 5+.

than somebody else, focus on progress and movement, people see

For every box sold they plant a tree. They’re currently planting trees in Northern California at the site of the 2017 fires. She says, “It’s

that, reward that and will cheer you on. Support your fellow female founders and embrace who you are.”

fun to know trees we’re planting are replenishing some that were lost in the place where we make our wine.”

Learn more about BOXT at: https://www.drinkboxt.com

Boxt founder Sarah Puil

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

Inside the Colton House Hotel …AND THE IMAGINATION OF INTERIOR DESIGNER PATRICE RIOS ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN

Instagram moment

Austin Life | May 2021

"I'm so h appy t h at we were able t o allow t ravelers t o A ustin as well as loc al A ustinites looking for a destination wit hin t own, t o feel like t hey are at home in a cohesive, elevated space t h at lends itsel f t o so many different experiences."

AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGNER

Backyard & Lawn, an outdoor spacious deck

PATRICE RIOS HAS A FLAIR FOR OUTFIT-

with fire pit and seating adorned with a trellis

TING LUXURY HOTELS, HONED DESIGN-

and chandeliers overlooking a 5,000-square

ING LUXURY HOTELS IN SHANGHAI! She

foot lawn, heated outdoor swimming pool

brought her skills home and recently revealed

and private cabanas and The Penthouse, sit-

her latest design project, Colton House Hotel,

uated above the sprawling outdoor area, a

an 80-suite hotel property on Austin’s hip

1,200 square foot event space connected to

South Congress Avenue. The three-year

an expansive rooftop terrace with views of

project entailed designing all of the hotel’s

the Texas Hill Country and the Austin Skyline.

rooms, ranging in size from 460 - 1,170 square

Rios says, “I find hotels to be such a

feet and equipped with a full modern kitchen

unique challenge as you are catering to

or kitchenette, as well as its many common

the design aesthetics of a wide variety of

spaces. These include the Simona Coffee +

guests as well as the hotelier, who was a

Cocktail bar with vintage chandeliers and

joy to work with. I’m so happy that we were

oversized Versailles chairs and The Parlor, an

able to allow travelers to Austin as well as

elegant lounge area furnished with leather

local Austinites looking for a destination

Chesterfield sofas and bright red velvet club

within town, to feel like they are at home in

chairs overlooking the lawn and pool with

a cohesive, elevated space that lends itself

plush black-out drapes to create an inti-

to so many different experiences.”

mately, warm and cozy space. The Parlor is

Drawing inspiration from its distinctive sur-

also where you find the “Wander Home” neon

roundings, the property showcases the cap-

sign, custom made for the hotel and sure to

tivating spirit of Austin and pays homage to

be an Instagram favorite.

the Lone Star State’s rich history. Whenever

There’s also The Library with grand book-

possible, the design elements were locally

shelves and a table that seats 16, The Club

sourced, including artwork, lighting fixtures,

Room with Texas saloon-style chairs, blue

antique trunks, lobby barn doors and mirrors,

velvet Victorian-style sofas and a kids’ corner

from Round Top, La Grange and Lockhart,

with thoughtful games, books, stuffed ani-

small towns surrounding Austin.

mals, and child-size furniture. In partnership

Whether a visitor from afar staying in one

with landscape designer M.J. Meneley at

of the hotels streamlined rooms or a local

Hitchcock Design Group Rios designed the

dipping in the more vibrant common spaces CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

INSIDE THE COLTON HOUSE HOTEL (CONTINUED)

for a cocktail or dinner, Rios says, “I want guests to feel they are exploring. I want them to be able to move from one space to the next and feel the shift. Oftentimes, a hotel guest is traveling solo, so it was The Bedroom, photo by Jeremy Sexton

very important to us to have a sense of exploration as an individual. Each space was designed to make you feel a different way. The Library makes you feel focused, yet relaxed; The Club Lounge gives you a little morning pep; Simona’s Coffee + Cocktail Bar makes you feel inspired; The Parlor provokes thought. It’s a constant journey of emotion that creates the individual experience”. In addition to hotels, in 2015 Rios started S&H, taking shipping containers and converting them into livable spaces. She’s also been a recurring design consultant for HGTV’s “Buying and Selling” with the Property Brothers. You can check out the Colton House Hotel at: 2510 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 7870 Find more on Rios here: https://www.patricerios.com/about

Welcome to The Colton House

Austin Life | May 2021

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Austin Life | May 2021

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Austin Life | May 2021

W I T H

C A M I L A

PREPARING FOR THIS INTERVIEW I SPENT SOME TIME SCROLLING THROUGH WOMEN OF TODAY, CAMILA ALVES MCCONAUGHEY’S LIFESTYLE WEBSITE DEDICATED TO CREATING COMMUNITY. Since people

Keeping it up without in-person events came with obvi-

universally come together around food, it has recipes from

ous challenges. Camila says, “We went all virtual and the

post-workout smoothies to Brazilian rice and her favor-

challenge was a lot of the kids didn’t have computers or wifi,

ite, no-mayo coleslaw. It has group workouts, beauty tips,

so we made sure the kids in the program had computers

health advice and giveaways - from meals to mattresses.

and wifi. We made sure they had the tools to do school and

After reading an interview on the site with Melissa Wood

the j.k. livin program. And we had to get creative. We got

Tepperberg on lymphatic drainage and dry brushing I bought

into doing a lot of emotional support for the kids and had a

a dry brush before writing my first question for Camila.

lot of guest speakers come in and DJ parties for them. We

We caught up on a call the morning after she and husband Matthew McConaughey hosted “We’re Texas,” a vir-

really had to pivot, we would do fitness classes all virtually, but it was beautiful to see how the students got into that.”

tual concert that was packed with an impressive roster of

Camila also put extra effort into Women of Today, which

talent from Renee Zellweger to Post Malone. At press time

she soft launched in 2015 and has been slowly growing over

it had raised nearly $8 million dollars for their just keep livin’

the years. The vision was originally born out of wanting to

Foundation’s Texas Relief Fund, helping Texans impacted

create a sense of community.

by the February freeze. “We only had three weeks to put the

“I grew up with a big sense of community in Brazil and

whole thing together, kind of cuckoo when people usually

living in the United States I noticed when traveling I would

take a year putting shows like this together,“ Camila shared.

find a big sense of community and then I’d come back to

“I’m really proud of it and the work we put into it.”

just a handful of friends and the conversations were smaller.

Oprah once said, To whom much is given, much is

So the idea behind Women of Today is to continue to build

expected. When I look into the future, it’s so bright it burns

a community of people with a mission of doing better for

my eyes. It’s not just about being able to write a check. It’s

themselves and better for the community around them.

being able to touch somebody’s life.

It’s all about learning from each other,” she says, adding,

Even prior to the storm the McConaughey’s have been

“I remember when I first started people said, ‘You have to

living to that creed. Since the beginning of the pandemic

make it CamilaMcConaughey.com’ and I didn’t want to do

they’ve handed out PPE and kept up the mission of their

that because it’s not about me telling people what to do,

j.k. livin’ Foundation “to empower high school students by

what I think is right for them to do, it’s all about a community

providing them with the tools to lead active lives and make

where we all learn from each other. Maybe what’s good for

healthy choices for a better future.”

me might not be good for you and maybe what’s good for

CAMILA SHARES PIECES OF HER LIFE, LOVES AND MISSION ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

CATCHING UP WITH CAMILA (CONTINUED)

you may be good for someone else in the community. I

really cared, they genuinely cared, and when someone

think the biggest difference with what we’re doing is that

said they were going to do something, they really did.

we’re talking with you, we’re not talking at you.”

When someone says they’re going to help out, they did,

Community, being together while apart, became even

even if they were busy. I also really love the beauty. Before

more important in 2020. “Especially during the pandemic

I came here I’d thought of it as a dry place and when you

the community really got involved and it really came to

start learning about Texas and seeing all the beauty that’s

life,” Camila says. “We were doing exercises six days a

in the state, it’s pretty exceptional.”

week the beginning of lockdown. We were teaching people how to cook basic things, meditate and really got into

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING A WOMAN?

what people were asking for and needed. It was really

Our intuition is something so beautiful. I’m not saying

beautiful to see the response from people, seeing them

men don’t have it, but I feel like we’re more in touch with it. If

find their journeys to being healthier, happier and more

we’re in touch with our intuition, our gut feeling, our hearts,

compassionate. That’s the thing that’s most rewarding

I feel like we can almost see the future sometimes. And the

and what Women of Today is about. It’s not about the

ability of giving birth to children, it’s just a beautiful thing.

numbers, it’s about the quality we’re bringing to people and what people are experiencing.”

THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR OFFICE?

She says a big takeaway from Women of Today is peo-

I teamed up with RH Interior Design to put the office

ple making small changes that become habits and lead

together and the concept was to bring my love for world

to real results. “I have this big passion of showing ways

travel and different cultures into the office. If you look

people can do better for their health in their daily routine

closely you see all these memories and art from all differ-

that aren’t that hard to do, just small changes,” she says.

ent parts of the world that I’ve been to. I wanted to create

“There are so many people in the community who have

a space that felt cozy, that felt very comfortable to be in.

verbalized that they have learned so many small changes that have helped them be healthier and that brings so

WHAT ARE SOME SELF-CARE RITUALS?

much joy to my heart, because we all know, if we have our

Look, I have three kids, I work, we’re in the middle of deal-

health, we can do so much. If we don’t have our health, we

ing with a pandemic. I think that for me it’s creating self-

can’t. So that really brings a smile to my heart.”

care habits that are attainable and you can do no matter

One change Camila has been vocal about is cutting

how crazy your day goes, so that at least every day you can

back on sugar. But, that doesn’t mean she eliminates it

feel like you did a little something for you. Then the days

completely. “I don’t preach being pure, don’t get me

that you have more time and more flexibility you can do the

wrong, I’m in no way, shape or form pure. I know people

extra stuff. So, it’s little things I know I can do every day.

who are and I think it’s a beautiful thing, but I still have my

One is I have my tea station with all the things I know are

treats here and there. And, when I do, I have the real stuff.

good for me and are going to make me feel energized to

If I’m going to have dessert, I’m not going to have a candy

start my day the right way. When I go to my tea station and

bar, I’m going to have a real dessert and I’m going to really

I make my little mixture of things and I sit down to have my

enjoy it.” Her four favorites are crème brulee, brigadeiros,

tea I feel like, ‘Ah, I’m taking care of myself, I feel good.’ In

tiramisu and dulce du leche ice cream.

the morning, when I’m doing my face oil, if I have the time

And while she’s creating community on Women of

I’ll do a whole lymphatic drainage massage on my face, but

Today, the Brazil-born model has also found it in Austin,

it’s rare that I can have time to do that during the week,

the place she, Matthew and their children Vida, Levi and

but I do take a few seconds to do a few movements. I can

Livingston have called home for more than a decade. “The

immediately see my skin looks better, and brighter, it looks

thing that I love the most about Austin is the people here,”

more alive and I look like I got rest. And then at the end of

she says. “It’s what I really fell in love with. We moved here

the day or whenever I’m taking a shower I try to dry brush.

a long time ago, and when I moved here I felt the people

I see a big difference when I’m able to do it consistently. CONTINUED >

Austin Life | May 2021

Photo Courtesy of RH

CityLifestyle.com/Austin

CATCHING UP WITH CAMILA (CONTINUED)

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU IN 30 YEARS GIVE YOU NOW?

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SUNDAY? Going on a trail hike with my family.

To keep focusing on the journey, don’t worry about the result.

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A SPA DAY?

WHEN ARE YOU THE HAPPIEST?

or not, but a favorite place when I want to

I don’t really do spas much believe it At home with my family FAVORITE TAKE OUT IN AUSTIN? Schmidt Family BBQ and Fresas Chicken

recharge and reconnect is Hotel St. Cecilia. FAVORITE QUOTE? I love the mural by Hotel St Jose that says I love you so much. It’s such a sim-

FAVORITE FOOD IN AUSTIN? Uchi

ple thing but when you look at it, you’re like, ‘I love you too,’ and you’re saying it to yourself, but I like it.

FAVORITE PLACE TO SEE LIVE MUSIC? ACL Moody Theater

Photo courtesy of Camila Alves McConaughey

Photo by: Lesson Medrano

Austin Life | May 2021

Photo courtesy of RH

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Austin Life | May 2021

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BECAUSE MOM'S DESERVE A GOLD....NECKLACE ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENDRA SCOTT

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

MOTHER'S DAY STYLE

AN ENSEMBLE IDEA FOR HOWEVER YOU SPEND YOUR DAY ARTICLE STEPHANIE COULTRESS O’NEILL PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHANIE COULTRESS O’NEIL AND TODD WHITE

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Austin Life | May 2021

My children and I modeling our Mother's Day looks

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT AKA THE SKINNY CONFIDENTIAL

ARTICLE JENNIFER BIRN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAURYN EVARTS

M E ET L AU RY N E VA R T S At work on her new book

LAURYN EVARTS IS A MULTI-HYPHENATE ENTREPRENEUR AND LOS ANGELES TRANSPLANT, HAPPY TO NOW CALL AUSTIN HOME. The creator of The Skinny Confidential has made her mark blogging about beauty, fitness and lifestyle trends with unabashed honesty. Nonstop since she started over a decade ago, the mom of 1-year-old Zaza, says “I feel very zen and peaceful here.” She’s also loving being between coasts and ‘Not waking up to everyone else’s to do list.” Lauyrn moved here with her husband, Dear Media co-founder Michael Bosstick, who she first dated in 6th grade! Although they broke up in 8th grade and weren’t a couple again until after college. Together they launched TSK Him & Her with Lauryn Evarts & Michael Bosstick podcast to

balance and says she wants to “focus on being a mother and a wife

expand on the community she built with The Skinny

and create space in my calendar to not be on all the time.” Which she

Confidential. She says guests range from “a beauty

says, is much easier in Austin.

expert to someone who talks about addiction” and is “like a bag of Chex mix, you never know you’re

CURRENTLY OBSESSED WITH:

going to get.” When considering guests she says

+ Suerte, a good skinny margarita and salsa.

she doesn’t care as much about celebrity or fol-

+ Sunlife Organics, I eat the bone broth every day

lower count as a good story, which is why SunLife

+ A speakeasy called Here Nor There, their menus are Glow in the Dark.

Organics founder Khalil Rafati is among her favorite

+ Tumeric tea and wood iron pizzas from Swedish Hill

guests so far. “He was homeless and an addict and

+ Josephine’s Chicken Tortilla soup

got sober and tells the journey on the podcast. The story really spoke to me,” she says. Coming up Lauryn is excited about the debut of

FIND MORE ON LAURYN:

her sophomore book this summer, that follows her

debut book The Skinny Confidential Lifestyle Guide.

BLOG: www.TheSkinnyConfidential.com

She’s working on launching products, writing more

PODCAST: TSK Him & Her with Lauryn Evarts and Michael Bosstick

books and is looking forward to live events and

BOOK: Stay the F*ck Out of the Sun available for pre-order

live podcasting when the world’s ready for those

SOCIAL: Instagram: @laurynbosstick

things again. Outside the office, she works on

Twitter: @laurynevarts YouTube: The Skinny Confidential

Austin Life | May 2021