The Model Diaries

KATIE KUGIS: Model, Mother and Business Mogul (aka a high achieving Capricorn)

In this episode of The Model Diaries, we sit down with Katie Kugis, a name and face well recognized in the industry. From becoming the face of countless brands to seeing her images dominate social media feeds, Katie’s journey into modeling has been anything but conventional.
Starting out young, she navigated the competitive world of modeling while juggling school life and, later, balancing a full-time career as a single mother. Now, as a successful entrepreneur with her businesses LUCÉ – Studio and Locations, Katie has used her experiences to build something truly her own. And with her dream wedding in Italy just around the corner, she’s entering an exciting new chapter.
In this episode, we dive into her inspiring story—how she got scouted, the challenges of self-esteem, the realities of being a working mother, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. We also explore how her modeling background helped her transition into business, what it takes to build a brand, and her advice for aspiring models and entrepreneurs.
From high-fashion shoots to business moves, motherhood, and marriage—Katie Kugis is here to share it all.
Follow us on socials @⁠⁠themodeldiaries.podcast⁠⁠
 
Your Hosts today @⁠⁠madeleineweston⁠⁠ @⁠⁠milliross⁠⁠
 
Your Guest Model Katie Kugis⁠
 
Presented by @⁠⁠quemodels⁠
 

MADI EDWARDS: From bikini modelling to building an online fashion empire

This week on The Model Diaries, we’re joined by the one and only Madi Edwards. A true OG in the modeling industry, Madi skyrocketed to success during the rise of Instagram, leveraging social media to build an empire. With over 779K followers, an international modeling career, and her own swimwear label, she now splits her time between LA and Australia—living the dream so many aspire to.
In this episode, Madi takes us back to the beginning, sharing how she was scouted, her early role models, and what it was like navigating a new city at just 19. We dive into how social media shaped her career, the pressures of the online world, and the biggest differences between modeling in LA and Australia.
Beyond modeling, Madi gives us an inside look at her transition from model to entrepreneur, revealing what inspired her to launch her fashion brand Kapri, the challenges of running a business, and her ultimate “pinch me” moments.
We wrap things up with a fun rapid-fire round and Madi’s must-have recommendation. Whether you’re an aspiring model, entrepreneur, or just a fan of Madi’s journey, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories.
 
Follow us on socials @⁠⁠themodeldiaries.podcast⁠⁠
 
Your Hosts today @⁠⁠madeleineweston⁠⁠ @⁠⁠milliross⁠⁠
 
Your Guest Model ⁠@⁠madi_edwards⁠
 
Presented by @⁠⁠quemodels⁠
 

OLIVIA PHILLIPS : Work Ethic, Hustling Hard & Turning Rejection Into Redirection

In this episode of The Model Diaries, we sit down with the unstoppable Olivia Phillips - back in Australia and already booked and busy! Fresh off a shoot, Olivia takes us behind the scenes of her modelling journey, from being scouted at a young age to landing international placements and making bold career moves.
 
We dive into the realities of the industry: navigating agency placements, adjusting to life in model accommodations, and the challenges of moving interstate to chase bigger opportunities—all while balancing personal growth and independence. Olivia also shares how social media has transformed the modeling landscape, the trends shaping the future of the industry, and her best advice for aspiring models looking to build a lasting career.
 
This episode is all about work ethic, resilience, and the power of turning rejection into redirection. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the industry's hardest-working talents!
 
Follow us on socials @themodeldiaries.podcast
 
Your Hosts today @madeleineweston @milliross
 
Your Guest Model @oliviaphillipps
 
Presented by @quemodels

LENÉ VOIGT: Worldwide Lingerie Campaigns, Getting Stuck Down Under & The Importance Of Family and Friendship

This week on The Model Diaries, we’re sitting down with Lene Voigt, the embodiment of a sexy-cool girl. From bikini campaigns and starring in Billini shoots on yachts in Sydney Harbour, to lighting up Times Square with her Honey Birdette billboard, Lene’s 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary.
In this episode, Lene shares her incredible journey, starting with how she was scouted and what inspired her to pursue a modeling career. Growing up in South Africa, she reflects on how the lifestyle and culture shaped her perspective and how it differs from her life in Australia.
We explore her bold decision to move to Australia, how she embraces confidence whilst modeling lingerie, and the challenges of building adult friendships whilst juggling a busy career.
Whether you’re a fan of Lene’s iconic campaigns or curious about the behind-the-scenes life of a model, this episode is full of inspiration, insight, and authenticity.
Stay up to date with new episodes and guests. Follow us on socials @themodeldiaries.podcast
Your Hosts today @madeleineweston @milliross 
Your guest Model Lené Voigt
Presented by @quemodels
 
 

CRYSTAL BELLOTTI: Becoming the “It girl” of e-commerce, back to back bookings and balancing work & life

This week we welcome the unstoppable Crystal Bellotti!
Known as the “it girl” of e-commerce, Crystal’s face is a staple across countless e-boutiques, and her meteoric rise over the past year has made her one of the most sought-after models in the industry. If you’ve shopped online, chances are you’ve already seen her stunning face.
In this episode, Crystal takes us behind the scenes of her journey—from being scouted to dominating the e-commerce circuit. She opens up about her bold decision to relocate to Melbourne, the whirlwind of being booked back-to-back, and the reality of early call times, long shoot days, and jet-setting between shoots.
We also dive into her personal life, exploring how she balances a hectic career with her relationships, the impact of constant travel on her mental health, and how her partner Nat has been her rock through it all. Crystal also shares her favourite shoot locations, her proudest modelling accomplishments, and what’s on her bucket list for 2025.
But there’s more to Crystal than her glamorous career. She shares her experience living with dyslexia, how it shapes her daily life, and the resilience it’s taught her.
Stay up to date with new episodes and guests. Follow us on socials @themodeldiaries.podcast
Your Hosts today @madeleineweston @milliross 
Your guest Model @crystalbellotti
Presented by @quemodels
 

MILLI ROSS: Bullying, Body Image and Being A Good Role Model

Milli Ross - Bullying, Body Image & Being A Good Role Model
At just 14 years old, Milli Ross was scouted and began her journey in the modelling world. Today, she is one of Australia's most recognisable faces, having worked with iconic brands like Lorna Jane, Portmans, Michael Hill, Bardot, Jeans West, and Dissh. Over the past two years, Milli’s career has skyrocketed internationally, with placements in seven agencies across the USA and Europe and a recent feature in Harper’s Bazaar.
In this episode, Milli reflects on her incredible journey from being a young girl balancing school and modelling, to becoming a trailblazer for body positivity and diversity in the industry. We dive into her experiences, challenges, and the pivotal moments that defined her career.
Join us as Milli shares her thoughts on the evolving world of fashion, the impact of social media, and her secrets for staying relevant in an ever-changing industry. With 11+ years of experience, she opens up about her proudest accomplishments, toughest lessons, and advice for aspiring models.
 
Model Recomendations
Silicone Earbuds
 
Stay up to date with new episodes and guests. Follow us on socials @themodeldiaries.podcast
Your Hosts today @madeleineweston @milliross 
Presented by @quemodels