Latest news with #DietCoke
Time of India
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Donald Trump binges on burgers and fries, but first lady Melania's favorite food will surprise you!
The first lady, Melania Trump, follows a disciplined, balanced approach to eating her meals and regular fitness routine and also loves cooking at home to make her family's meals healthier to avoid dependence on junk food and processed meals, as per a report. Melania Trump Pushes for Healthy Habits at Home While, her husband, US president Donald Trump, prefers eating fast food, he also skips breakfast and feasts on burgers and shakes later in the day, according to The Takeout report. Melania wants to change this habit of Trump and has "joined forces with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a campaign to steer the president away from his unhealthy meal choices," according to the report. Both of them have the goal to make Trump replace fast food with meals rich in vegetables and lean protein to boost his energy and overall health, according to the report. ALSO READ: Investors rattled as yields surge — strategist labels Trump administration the new bond vigilante force by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Favorite Spots to Dine Out However, even though Melania cooks regularly at home, she also likes eating out sometimes, but only in a few selective places she trusts, as per The Takeout report. In New York, she likes to go to Jean-Georges at the Trump International Hotel, where the chicken parmesan is her repeat order, and she also likes dining at Ralph Lauren's Polo Bar, which is close to Trump Tower, as per the report. A Power Start to Her Day Melania is known to be committed to healthy food choices, starting most days with a vitamin-rich smoothie loaded with fresh produce like spinach, carrots, celery, berries, and apple, along with yogurt, olive oil, flax seeds, and even omega-3 and vitamin D supplements, as per The Takeout report. It's a power drink, she once called her "every day delicious and healthy breakfast," according to the report. Live Events Surprising Favorite Drink While the first lady prefers healthy meals, her choice of beverage is a bit shocking, as she once revealed in an interview with New York Magazine, she likes "Diet Coke from the classic glass bottles," as per The Takeout report. She also has cravings from time to time, when she said, "I love chocolate and ice cream, and I have those things once in a while," and highlighted that it's all about balance, according to the report. Melania said, "It's good to indulge your cravings," adding, "as long as you balance those things with healthy foods," quoted The Takeout report. FAQs Does Melania Trump cook at home? Yes, she enjoys cooking for her family and tries to prepare healthier, home-cooked meals, as per The Takeout report. What's Melania's typical breakfast? A green smoothie filled with fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and nutritional boosters, as per the report.
Fox News
a day ago
- Health
- Fox News
Experts say quitting Diet Coke can improve heart health and gut balance
It may have zero calories and no added sugar, but experts say Diet Coke is not generally considered a healthy beverage. Previous studies have linked diet soda in general to increased metabolic and cardiovascular risks, among other health effects. "Research shows that drinking two or more artificially sweetened beverages per day may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke," Michelle Routhenstein, a New York-based registered dietitian who specializes in heart disease, told Fox News Digital. "Another study showed that just one diet soda increases the risk of Afib, an irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of vascular events, like stroke." Some studies show this may be due to how artificial sweeteners are processed in the body and the metabolites they produce, Routhenstein said, while other research suggests that diet sodas may negatively change the balance of gut bacteria, which plays a role in chronic disease. "Many of my clients who have ditched Diet Coke mention how they never realized how addictive it can be," she added. Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Charlotte, North Carolina, noted that Diet Coke contains artificial sweeteners that have been linked to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. "Aspartame, the artificial sweetener in Diet Coke, has been labeled as possibly carcinogenic by the World Health Organization and may negatively affect our gut microbiome," she said in an interview with Fox News Digital. Many industry experts maintain that aspartame is still safe for consumption, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 2023, the FDA issued the below statement on its position on aspartame. "Aspartame is one of the most studied food additives in the human food supply. FDA scientists do not have safety concerns when aspartame is used under the approved conditions," the agency said. "The sweetener is approved in many countries. Regulatory and scientific authorities, such as Health Canada and the European Food Safety Authority have evaluated aspartame and also consider it safe at current permitted use levels." Fox News Digital reached out to Coca-Cola for comment. Routhenstein recommends swapping diet soda for a more health-conscious choice. "While it may be hard to find an exact alternative that meets the taste, carbonation and mouth feel, there are other healthier alternatives to consider," she told Fox News Digital. One of Routhenstein's suggestions is low-sugar kombucha, a fermented tea that offers gut-promoting benefits. Freirich echoed the benefits of kombucha as a source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. "You can also add a splash of lime or lemon to carbonated water, adding vitamin C for immune and heart health," Routhenstein suggested. Sparkling green tea is another option, as it offers carbonation while still providing anti-inflammatory benefits, according to the above source. For those who prefer "bubbly" drinks, Freirich also recommends choosing unflavored seltzer water or lightly sweetened carbonated beverages. "If you are interested in the caffeine of Diet Coke, I recommend replacing it with lightly sweetened tea or coffee," she suggested. "These are a great source of natural antioxidants and some caffeine. Green tea in particular is incredibly anti-inflammatory." For more Lifestyle articles, visit The best option of all, however, is plain water, experts agree. "Many of us could benefit from drinking a little more water in our day," Freirich said. "Hydration is important for energy, good digestion and the health of our hair, skin and nails."
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
35 Underrated But Ridiculously Cool Products
A ridiculously versatile solar-powered bird bath fountain pump — all you have to do is plop it in water in a traditional bird bath, planter, or backyard decor, and boom! You have a sweet little bird haven that can burble water up to a foot high for all our feathered friends to enjoy. Moroccanoil's Mini Must-Haves Sampler, which is so affordable that I'm not not pinching myself to make sure I'm awake. Reviewers especially love these teensy versions for traveling in ~luxury~ on the cheap, and for trying these beloved splurgeworthy products without committing to the whole price first! A clever magnetic two-layer fridge shelf so roomy and useful that your fruit bowl will be like "Excuse me? What is SHE doing here??" Reviewers are especially impressed with how strong the magnet is on these, and how much space it saves them! Olay's Firming Body Lotion full of collagen peptides and a Vitamin B3 complex for *ultra* hydration designed to visibly plump, firm, and moisturize your skin — all at a fraction of the price of other firming lotions, like the internet's beloved $48 Elasti-Cream. Marshmallow Blush Perfume, a romantic, soft scent that has taken TikTok by STORM for this summer — reviewers are obsessed with how beautifully this strawberry-leaning scent blends vanilla, floral, and fruity notes for the ultimate summer vibe. It's also got some major longevity, so it makes for a perfect signature scent! A four-pack of silicone straw soda can lids that are like, "Oh, you're obsessed with Diet Coke? Let me find you a reason to be even MORE obsessed." Reviewers love these not just for the ~thrill~ of a straw, but because the covers make the cans a whole lot more spill-proof, prevent your drink from going flat, and protect your can from bugs and debris during outdoor hangs. Clinique Pop Lip + Cheek Tinted Oil tailor-made for the lifelong fans of the TikTok-famous "universal" Black Honey lippie that sells out time and time again — this ~juicier~, luscious version gives a dewier finish perfect for the lips and cheeks and a tint that lasts, making it the ultimate in your "no makeup makeup" arsenal. It's basically as if Dior Lip Glow Oil, Benetint, and Clinique Black Honey had a baby. Mixsoon Bean SPF 50 Sunscreen with an ~airy~ texture, making this K-beauty staple perfect for anyone who loves a good SPF but hates the icky sticky feeling of it. This feather-light, hydrating sunscreen plays so well with makeup that it's about to become the primer of your ✨dreams✨. A mini colander with folding handles that is basically a mandatory purchase for fruit and veggie lovers — reviewers love how easy it is to plop produce into this lil' guy and rinse it off in the sink with no muss, no fuss of drying everything out after! Dove's Coconut Milk & Sugar Lychee Body Wash so moisturizing, gentle, and decadently-scented that you're going to feel fully transported to your ~happy place~ every time you lather it on. This is especially lovely for sensitive skin, since the plant milk base is nutrient-rich and sulfate-free to keep your skin feeling eeextra soft and loved. A Lego face mug that will put you in a true "🎵 everything is awesoooooome, everything is fun when you've had your caffeine 🎵" vibe in the morning. L'Oreal Paris Makeup Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in a new brown shade so you can have all the *vavoom* of thick, full lashes with that romantic ~softness~ of the more muted shade. Similar to the iconic black shade that made it famous, this mascara doesn't smudge, clump, or flake for alllll day wear, and washes easily to be extra gentle on lashes. A delightfully irreverent Maybe Swearing Will Help coloring book that's equal parts cheeky, cathartic, and genuinely fun to color. It even comes with a set of markers so you can get down to business immediately. Reviewers especially love this since it leans more optimistic and clever than other swearing coloring books, without losing its edge. Biofreeze's new Dry Stick for "portable pain relief" — this mess-free, cooling solution for aches and pains all over your human body, whether it's your neck, shoulders, knees, hands, or many numerous joints. Its targeted menthol relief also works *fast* and is delightfully travel-friendly, unlike competing menthol creams. A set of spicy margarita instant cocktail tea bags — all the sophistication of tea and the 😜 of a cheeky cocktail, without the exorbitant bar price tags or the sugar crash. All you have to do is add three ounces of cold water, 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, and the tea sachet into a glass, and you'll have a delicious cocktail in one minute. Mise En Scene Perfect Serum, a beloved K-beauty staple reviewers compare to the $46 Gisou version for MEGA hair hydration and heat protection up to 450 degrees, so you can style your hair without sacrificing on ✨shine✨. This unique blend of seven-oil blend Moroccan argan, olive, coconut, apricot, Marula, jojoba, and camellia oil not only protects hair, but helps correct damage from dryness, *and* reduces drying time. A wildly popular hummingbird projection lantern to make your porch or backyard feel like you're stepping out of the real world and into a whimsical fairy tale. Good Molecules Pineapple Exfoliating Powder so effective that reviewers gleefully compare it to the $68 Dermalogica version. This gentle, foaming powder is formulated with natural rice starches and pineapple, kiwi, and papaya extracts, and should be used three to four times weekly to help gently break down dead skin cells for a brighter, more refreshed flow. A reviewer-beloved four-piece airtight food saver set designed to adapt to the shape of halved fruits so you can snack or cook at your leisure without worrying about food waste. Truly, what wouldn't we do to keep a perfectly ripe avocado half safe?? Case-Mate's iconic waterproof beach totes, which are, of course, ridiculously roomy and useful, but more importantly, RIDICULOUSLY cute. This is it "It" accessory of the beach if there ever were one. Get ready to be swimming in the ocean AND in compliments from strangers. Bonus — it even comes with a separate dry bag for your phone! An affordable sleeveless exercise romper you will be SO glad you bought on days when the sun is trying to bake you like cookie dough. These are medium-compressive, soft, breezy, and SUPER easy to throw on when your brain is too fried to match a top and a bottom in the heat. Bonus — these are comparable to Aerie, Abercrombie, and Hollister versions that can go for three times this price! McCormick's Potato Topping Seasoning for anyone who's not afraid to get a little feral about their air-fried, mashed, and baked potatoes — this blend of salt, garlic, and asiago cheese is so mouthwateringly delicious that you'll be dumping it on everything from popcorn to grilled cheese to guacamole. E.l.f.'s Blue-ty Sleep Night Oil reviewers LOVE as an alternative to the pricier versions — this overnight face oil is formulated with 1% granactive retinoid and blueberry extract for the geeentlest boost to help reduce fine lines, plump skin, and tone your complexion without drying you out or compromising your skin barrier. It also absorbs beautifully and is super lightweight, so it'll play nice with the rest of your skincare routine. A timeless transparent beaded handbag so mesmerizing that friends won't believe how beautiful it is in person, let alone how little you paid for it. Cosrx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Face Masks, the overnight face mask version of the internet's wildly beloved hydration serum, Snail Mucin Essence. This mask visibly absorbs within a few hours to become transparent over your skin, packing it with 25% snail secretion filtrate, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for a deeeeep hydration that visibly plumps and brightens your complexion to give it that "glass skin" effect. A guided visual sloth "breathing partner" you can use for meditation and calm to shift your mindset. This is designed to guide you through either the popular 4/7/8 or 5/5 "calming breaths" to help reduce stress and anxiety, using colors that fade in and out softly as cues. Bonus: it's kid-friendly! A Lululemon-inspired mini wristlet wallet set that looks just like their $50 version, and also easily holds cash, cards, and lip balms, so you don't have to deal with the whole muss and fuss of a purse if you're going on a walk around the neighborhood. Plus, you know what they say — keep your friends close and your beloved lippies closer. Dae's Hair Cactus Fruit 3-In-1 Styling Cream & Taming Wand, which is basically the brand's "holy grail," TikTok-famous styling cream in the form of a mascara wand. This versatile lil' tool helps you carefully target flyaways, style edges, and smooth frizz. Kitsch's new "Ultra Petite" Satin Scrunchies for anyone who loves the hair-protective style of satin, but wants a lower profile that the big billowing versions. These are super gentle and prevent creasing, but still have an all-day firm hold. A reusable, family-friendly sand eraser to *instantly* remove sand from your skin with a quick swipe so you don't accidentally turn your unsuspecting car interiors into "Beach, Part Two." A pair of cheerful, super lightweight boxer-style shorts so comfy and adorable that you are about to put all other styles on notice for the rest of the year — especially since these are a MUCH cheaper alternative to the $98 Reformation version. A set of slanted stemmed wineglasses in muted colors for anyone who loves to make their guests go "Ooooh" when they host a lil' happy hour. A set of lightweight, super sharp cylinder block kitchen knives that did NOT come here to play — the blades on these are so good that reviewers warn to be careful, because they're even sharper than you think! This is an especially clever space-saving option for smaller kitchens, since the cylinder block takes up less space (and looks quite chic, too). A delightfully affordable wireless bottle lamp to convert bottles into a cheeky light fixture, so your favorite wine can literally ~light up your life~, or you can preserve a bottle from a special occasion as part of your decor. This also makes an excellent gift to pair with a bottle of something yummy! An absurdly darling pink Lego typewriter that has multiple build options — you can also turn it into a flowery "keytar" instrument and a sweet little flowerpot with a writing pad and pen. (But honestly, I've imprinted on that pink typewriter so hard that if I hear about any of you making something else, I'm gonna cry some big Barbie tears.)
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
35 Holy Grail Summer Products You'll Be Proud To Own
A cult-favorite Creamy Coconut fragrance rollerball reviewers compare to the pricey Sol de Janeiro version 👀☀️ . This is from TikTok-famous small business brand Kuumba Made, known for its luxury scents at ridiculously affordable prices, so you know they're on their game — reviewers especially love how ~beachy~ and long-lasting this sweet but elevated fragrance feels and how nicely it plays with other scents! A handy as heck Burt's Bees sunburn soother you'll want to stock up on if you're a "just in case" kinda human — it's made with aloe and coconut oil to hydrate skin and gently relieve pain from the sun's unforgiving rays within just a few hours. Monday Haircare Dry Shampoo with all the oil-absorbing, refreshing power of its competitors, *plus* added keratin for protection against frizz and breakage. The subtle gardenia scent is just extra extra credit after all that. A four-pack of silicone straw soda can lids that are like, "Oh, you're obsessed with Diet Coke? Let me find you a reason to be even MORE obsessed." Reviewers love these not just for the ~thrill~ of a straw, but because the covers make the cans a whole lot more spill-proof, prevent your drink from going flat, and protect your can from bugs and debris during outdoor hangs. Olay's Firming Body Lotion full of collagen peptides and a Vitamin B3 complex for *ultra* hydration designed to visibly plump, firm, and moisturize your skin — all at a fraction of the price of other firming lotions, like the internet's beloved $48 Elasti-Cream. A set of limited edition Band-Aids with retro flower patterns so the next time you get a little ouch, you can be like, "wound care, but make it summer-y." A set of DEET-free handy mosquito-repelling bracelets for the ultimate in genius summer investments — these use essential oils, including citronella, to help stop those teensy vampires in their tracks. And if it's entirely too late for that, a delightful little tool called the "Bug Bite Thing" — it suctions on all kinds of bug bites to reduce swelling, itchiness, and redness, so you don't spend half your summer itching your appendages. Jergens Natural Glow Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion to give you a gradual-building, vacation-worthy ~sunkissed glow~ over the course of just a few days. Not only is this easy peasy to apply compared to other finickier, streaking lotions, but it's formulated with collagen and elastin to help your skin appear firmer *and* glowier, and a HECK of a lot cheaper than its competitors. E.l.f.'s Squeeze Me More Lip Balm Duo with some real "Laneige, but make it cheap" energy. This mango and watermelon duo is actually the oh-so-tropical remix of the brand's wildly beloved Squeeze Me More Lip Balm that came out last year, so reviewers are already obsessed with how lightweight, hydrating, and deeelicious these go-to balms are. Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum, aka humidity's WORST ENEMY. 😈 This super lightweight argan oil solution is designed for all hair types to help manage frizz and define waves and curls without weighing them down, and will be the MVP in your hair arsenal in the warmer temps — especially considering how costly competitive serums are! Eos' Cashmere Skin Collection Shave Oil — yes, that's right, the astronomically TikTok-famous Eos "cashmere" body lotion now comes in shave oil form, just in time for potential spring shaving shenanigans. Reviewers are notably impressed by how close of a shave they can get with this, particularly in sensitive areas, helping spare you from razor burn and ingrown hairs. A three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses for anyone who needs to stock up on a few "these look like Ray-Bans, but I won't cry into my Baja Blast if I accidentally leave them in the Taco Bell parking lot" pairs this year. These are especially handy because you can match the subtle prints to whatever 'fit you're wearing! A travel-friendly SPF 50 Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar, a K-beauty staple with a curved balm stick style that makes it super easy to apply, and a nonsticky, white cast–free formula that plays ABSURDLY well with makeup. If you're looking for a lightweight "soft matte" sunscreen to protect your skin, this is your new BFF. And Sol De Janeiro's new SPF 50 Rio Radiance Body Oil — turns out we're all so collectively OBSESSED with the cult-fave "sunshine" scent of their tightening Bum Bum Cream that they bottled it up for sun protection *and* a lil' bit of glamour. This body oil will not only protect you from the sun's rays, but has a subtle, delightful shimmer ✨ . A pair of reusable silicone Nippies, a cult-fave ~invisible~ nipple cover that reviewers love for its seamless fit and the way it stays put even on the sweatiest of human days without budging. Fun tops and dresses with funky straps have officially entered the group chat!! Reef Water platform sandals, aka the ultimate in cute, comfortable, and water-friendly sandals that will be the "go-to" shoe of your summer. These don't have a break-in period, can be dressed up or down, and have a cheeky little platform to them so you can cosplay as someone an inch taller than you usually are. Reviewers ESPECIALLY love these for traveling because of how versatile they are! A set of waterproof "wet bags" you will curse yourself for not buying YEARS AGO, because they are tiny little lifesavers when you're on the move. Reviewers use these to cart wet suits and towels from the beach and pool, sweaty clothes from the gym, and soiled clothes and burp cloths in diaper bags. It even has a little snap closure if you want to hook it to a stroller or bag (and the color combos are TOO CUTE). A truly miraculous sand-free beach blanket that repels sand and dirt so easily that you'll wonder if someone cast a spell on it. Parents especially love this because babies and toddlers can lay on it without getting sand in their mouths, and it's ridiculously easy to repack without worrying about taking half the sand in the beach from with you. Oh, and it's also GINORMOUS. (And packs up super small!) And a reusable, family-friendly sand eraser to *instantly* remove sand from your skin with a quick swipe so you don't accidentally turn your unsuspecting car interiors into "Beach, Part Two." A delightfully affordable battery-operated patio umbrella light you can easily install without any tools, so you don't have to do wine and cheese in the darkness if the sun sets before your appetite does. Wild Iris Musk Body Wash, the summer-friendly sister of the TikTok-famous "old money" Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired body wash. I am a massive fan of both — the moisturizing clean is so fresh, and the scents are so DELIGHTFULLY luscious without overpowering — but trust me when I say that Wild Iris Musk is *the* warm weather scent. It's floral, soft, playful, and grounded all at once. (And yes, just like the original version, it smells ... expensive 👀.) A waterproof, super lightweight JBL Go 3 speaker so you can impress your friends not just with your excellent playlist curation skills, but the ridiculous sound quality that comes out of this tiny gizmo. It's so portable that you can easily tuck it into a tote bag on your way to a park or pool hang, and so waterproof that reviewers even keep it in the shower! A beach towel clip you can attach to a beach chair to stop it from blowing away while you're off gallivanting in the ocean trying to make friends with a mermaid. Reviewers also love this for building blanket forts, holding down tablecloths, and hanging wet items like suits and towels at the end of a long beach day. An affordable, Lululemon-esque longline sports bra so comfy, supportive, and versatile that reviewers love it both for outdoor workouts, gym use, *and* errand running. This is designed to be supportive without being too compressive, with lightweight fabric that keeps you breezy in the heat. A mini sprinkler pool that will feel a little bit like cheating at life, because how can something so ridiculously easy to set up keep the kiddos entertained for so many hours?? Reviewers also love the letters and animals printed on the surface as a cute learning opportunity for the younger set. A pair of cheerful, super lightweight boxer-style shorts so comfy and adorable that you are about to put your denim shorts on notice for the rest of the year — especially since these are a MUCH cheaper alternative to the $98 Reformation version. A Lululemon-inspired mini wristlet wallet set that looks just like their $50 version, and also easily holds cash, cards, and lip balms, so you don't have to deal with the whole muss and fuss of a purse if you're going on a walk around the neighborhood. Plus, you know what they say — keep your friends close and your beloved lippies closer. A waterproof pouch to keep your phone and other "doesn't play well with water"–type gadgets safe. Not only does this keep it safe, but you can still use the touchscreen with it, meaning you can take underwater travel photos galore 🐠🐟🐡. A Skims-inspired square-neck compressive body suit that's basically 10 outfits in one — you can rock it solo, wear it as a bodysuit tucked into jeans, or pair it with a hoodie or a jacket. Go, little base layer, gooooo! A '90s-themed insulated lunchbox complete with a zipped front pocket and a shoulder strap so you can rock your lunch like it's the hottest accessory on the block. A portable Chill-O-Matic Instant Beverage Cooler, aka every finicky cold bevvy drinker's DREAM. This gadget can take a 12-ounce can of seltzer, soda, or beer at room temperature and make it ice cold in just one minute. A lot of people who complain that their fridge doesn't make drinks "cold enough" also swear by this for an extra icy kick. A truly multi-talented set of colorful cooling towels you can use to prevent yourself from overheating — all you have to do is wet these, and they get chilly to drape on your head or neck. Once the chill runs out, you can wet them again to get it back! And a 360-degree portable neck fan that puts all the other versions of it to shame — this one is designed with a comfier nonslip silicone neck grip and bladeless fans, so you don't have to worry about your hair getting caught in them. A set of espresso martini instant cocktail tea bags — all the sophistication of tea, the zing! of coffee, and the 😜 of a cheeky cocktail, without the exorbitant bar price tags. All you have to do is add three ounces of cold water, 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, and the tea sachet into a glass, and you'll have a delicious cocktail in one minute.
Sydney Morning Herald
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
ADHD, limited sleep and Coke Zero: What fuels artist Emma Addams
Shortly after Emma Addams agreed to become the subject of a documentary film, she was diagnosed with ADHD. 'I have about 17 browser windows open in my mind right now,' says the Melbourne artist, whose unisex jewellery brand, Heart of Bone, has been championed by the likes of Billie Eilish, Billy Idol and Jean Paul Gaultier. 'It would have been nice to have known about it earlier. I've seen other people with ADHD write books to help their partners understand that we're not purposely leaving cupboard doors open or being immature by prioritising weeding the garden over getting our paperwork done. It's just that our brains are wired differently. I can create the most amazing things but can I do my filing? No.' She takes a swig of Coke Zero: a caffeinated beverage that fuels the all-nighters she pulls in her warehouse studio. 'I was totally addicted to Diet Coke since I was 13, then Coke Zero when that came out,' says Addams, 48, who cuts a striking figure in black leather pants and platform boots, dagger-shaped earrings, claret-coloured lipstick and several silver rings, including two of her famous 'bunny skull' designs. 'I tried ADHD medication, but it doesn't really help with my creativity so I've had to find other ways to manage it, like meditation.' Inside her studio, Addams sits at an antique dining table, which she painted black. To her left is a red couch resembling a pair of lips; behind her, a black bookshelf bearing titles about poetry, art and Chinese horoscopes and a red bar fridge stocked with Coke Zero. On the other side of the table is rising documentary maker Grace Anna Cardona, 32. In 2019, Cardona emailed Addams – whom she had never met – to ask if she could make a film about her. The result is Born to Hustle, which has already been named best short documentary at two film festivals in Sydney and one in Utah. It premieres in Melbourne, as part of the St Kilda Film Festival's Moving Portraits session, on June 9. 'Some directors have a really clear vision of what they want going in, whereas I'm the opposite,' says Cardona, who also runs a wedding video business. 'I like to point the camera, shoot and then find the story in the edit.' This is why she opted for a run time of 26 minutes, despite obtaining mountains of footage over 3½ years (COVID interruptions notwithstanding). Stylistically, her film reflects its subject perfectly, with its caffeinated pace and rock video aesthetic. 'Most filmmakers would have music composed during the edit, whereas I get the music first and then cut the story to it,' Cardona explains. 'There are 21 songs in 26 minutes because sound is everything to me and I want the music to feel like another layer of the story.' 'Failure should not be a death sentence but a diagnosis, which can help give you direction.' Emma Addams At one point in the film, Addams observes that people sometimes take her the wrong way, pegging her as hard-natured. But in person, one of the first things you notice is her tendency to smile with her eyes. She's terrific company; both interesting and interested in others. 'I can be this incredibly feminine caregiver who just wants to be loving and make the world a better place,' she says. 'But as women, we can be really hard on ourselves because we're expected to perform so many different roles.' Born and raised in Melbourne, Addams was studying to become an archeologist until she was headhunted by an antiques dealer for her restoration skills. Eventually, she opened her own restoration atelier, and then became the buyer and creative director of the Husk fashion stores. (She and her ex-husband, former Husk owner Justin Abrahams, were together for 17 years and have a son and a daughter.) In 2012, Addams – who took her current surname in honour of Morticia Addams – enrolled in a jewellery-making course. Her goal was to design a range of 'rock 'n roll cutlery' featuring snakes and skulls but in the first class, she became enthralled by the process of making rings, which she carves with an unorthodox array of implements such as dental picks. Almost immediately, her playfully macabre designs attracted attention – especially her statement rings. Some feature skulls adorned with bunny ears or Carmen Miranda's fruit hat; others carry oversized scorpions, serpents and skeletons. At a hotel breakfast bar in Los Angeles, designer Marc Jacobs complimented Addams on her pieces and within a few years, she'd built an international cult following. One of her biggest fans was a then 15-year-old musician from California named Billie Eilish. They clicked immediately. 'She's a really cool, genuine chick,' Addams says. A couple of years later, Eilish's debut studio album topped the charts in more than 20 countries. When she graced the covers of Vogue and Rolling Stone, she was dripping in Heart of Bone jewellery, triggering huge interest in the brand. Addams began hiring staff and often worked through the night while her children slept. There was a partnership with David Jones, while AC/DC commissioned her to make a limited collection of pieces including rings and lightning bolt studs. Miley Cyrus, Courtney Love, Dita Von Teese, Karl Lagerfeld and Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash are among the high-profile celebrities who have worn her creations. As Born to Hustle makes clear, Addams worked long hours at a frenetic pace to build her business. But the film is not a paean to so-called 'hustle culture', an individualistic ideology that venerates career achievement above all else. 'We're all good at some things and not so good at others, which is why we've evolved to live in tribal communities,' Addams says. 'Except we're not doing that these days. We think we're closer because of social media, but it's bullshit.' Indeed, what Cardona saw in Addams are traits the filmmaker also possesses: intelligence, thoughtfulness, tenaciousness and a creativity bolstered by an 'all you can do is try' ethos. 'Either you believe in yourself and back yourself, or you miss out on what you could have gotten because you were too scared to ask,' Addams says. 'I say to my kids that on the other side of fear is everything you ever wanted. And failure should not be a death sentence but a diagnosis, which can help give you direction.' Recently, Addams took a much-needed break from Heart of Bone. 'I love my brand,' she says, 'and I want to have a think about what I do with it next.' Meanwhile, she's creating a tarot deck with her best friend, psychotherapist Tahli Rockman, while also working on a visual art project: a collection of statements, created with the help of a personalised astrology app, which she renders into paintings. 'You are not an open wound,' one declares. 'Certain types of pain are clarifying in their sharpness,' reads another.
