A Conversation with Liz Trinnear
Born and raised in London Ontario, Liz Trinnear was determined at a young age to land her dream gig of becoming a MuchMusic VJ. That dream came to fruition after Liz won the MuchMusic VJ search in 2009 and since then she has been a prominent figure in music and pop culture. She has co-hosted the IHEARTRADIO MMVAs and covered major events like the Oscars®, the JUNO Awards, Emmys, Golden Globes and the MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS.
Liz joined ETALK as a Reporter in 2015 and now serves as the L.A. Correspondent, interviewing top celebrities and covering high-profile events from California.
Known for her positive outlook, Liz has inspired many by sharing her personal struggles as well as promoting authenticity. With over 100,000 followers on social media, she continues to connect with and motivate her fans.
This month, we caught up with Liz to learn more about her career journey, how motherhood has changed her life, and how she taps into the softer side of things after a long day of travel or work (which often go hand in hand).
We’re so excited to bring you our conversation with Liz Trinnear.
First things first, happy 1st birthday to your adorable little Nico! What would you say has been the biggest surprise about motherhood so far?
I have always dreamt of motherhood and eagerly awaited my turn to experience it. I’ve always loved kids and worked as a nanny when I was younger. I also thrive in the hustle and bustle of working in entertainment, being a true social butterfly. One of the biggest surprises for me is how much I have embraced and loved the quiet and simplicity of this time in my life. It’s true what they say—you don’t get these years back. In the past, I was booked and busy every night with events, social gatherings, or concerts, but now, I’m savoring every minute of our simple days. I cherish our routines with Nico, our 9 PM bedtimes, and early mornings as a family.
You've always dressed to impress and look so fabulous - has motherhood made that more difficult to achieve or is it still something your prioritize to feel like you?
Over the past 20 years, my style has evolved significantly. Nowadays, I prioritize practicality, comfort, and ease. While I still enjoy dressing up for dinners and events in my chic outfits, my go-to look is my “mom uniform” of jeans, a tank, and a loose, oversized button-down. Some days I put in more effort than others, but one of the best parts of this stage in my life is the confidence I have to leave the house without makeup, with my hair pulled back, and wearing whatever I happen to have on. It’s not about a lack of care; it’s a newfound confidence in myself that i’ve never experienced before.
What drew you to the world of television and entertainment?
From as early as I can remember, I was a music fan. I recall rushing home after school every day to turn on MuchMusic, dreaming of one day becoming a VJ myself. When the time was right and the next VJ search came around, I applied (finally old enough to do so), and after three months of competing against 3,999 others, I won. Being a pop culture junkie, embarking on a new journey with Etalk was a natural fit. I love people, entertainment (music, film, and television), storytelling, and performing. I firmly believe that if you love what you do, it won't feel like work.
You're had the opportunity to interview some pretty big names throughout your career. Who has been your favourite interview thus far?
I love this question but it is definitely a hard one to answer since there are so many! It’s true “the bigger the star the nicer they are” and that goes for someone like Nicole Kidman. She’s extremely thoughtful and present and very generous with her answers and gracious for your time. Another favorite would have to be the nicest man on the planet: Henry Winkler. He is just so positive and happy, you can’t help but smile the entire time. Earlier this year at the Emmys I watched him connect with Ayo Edebiri (The Bear). He was thrilled to meet her and he took time in the middle of a chaotic red carpet to give her her flowers. Everyone loves him!
How do you find comfort and maintain balance amidst the hectic schedule of a career in entertainment?
If I’m being honest, I’ve slowed down a lot in my 30s. I loved the “go, go, go” lifestyle in my 20s, but once I entered my 30s, I was ready for a more balanced approach. This shift coincided with my move to California, where I embraced the cliché “West Coast chill lifestyle.” I now have a greater appreciation for early bedtimes, balanced meals, and exercising when I can (I’m human and fall in and out of workout phases). I still enjoy the occasional night out or concert. I used to burn the candle at both ends and loved every second of it, but slowing down has been a gradual lifestyle shift that I was more than ready for. Don’t get me wrong—I still love a wine night and tearing up the dance floor with friends now and then, but I’m finding beauty in the balance.
You share openly about your daily struggle with a rare skin condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB for short). What has living with your condition taught you?
You never know what someone is going through. From the outside, you might see my hair, makeup, and wardrobe and think I have it all together. The reality is that some nights I can barely walk by the end of the day, and wearing the wrong thing for too long can result in weeks of fragile blistering or flare-ups from my EB. My condition taught me at a young age to be kinder to those around me, to lead with empathy, and that it’s okay to ask for help. I dream of a day with no blisters, especially for others suffering from this condition, and I know we are so close to a cure.
Are there specific clothing materials you find particularly comfortable and accommodating for your skin condition?
I love fashion and always have. However, some fabrics and fashion pieces are a recipe for disaster with my EB, so I prioritize wearing comfy, loose, and soft fabrics. This Is J's signature fabric, in particular, is incredibly soft and gentle on my skin, making it a perfect choice. I always opt for sneakers or comfortable footwear and avoid anything that might rub or tear my fragile skin.
You have shared the cutest photos of your family rocking our matching PJs! What is it about our pajamas that makes you want to share them with your loved ones?
As you know by now, I take comfort very seriously. The softness of the fabric and breathability make these PJs a dream to wear and a wonderful gift for anyone in the family. Whether lounging at home or getting ready for bed, their gentle touch on the skin is unbeatable.
Liz Trinnear cozy at home in her Bamboo Jammers with her daughter, Nico.
What are some personal rituals or practices you rely on to decompress and recharge after a demanding day or a wrap on a massive production or event like the Oscars?!
I love the glitz and glam of my job, but I equally love a nice bubble bath or shower afterward, followed by a big cozy robe or pajamas. A hearty meal and a good night's sleep are essential. I always enjoy the contrast of being on the red carpet with all these mega stars and then driving home to watch the actual show from the comfort of my own living room, just like the rest of the world.
As a mom to a little one, we gather that you are in hot pursuit of SLEEP. Other than our cozy, ultra-soft jammers, what are your non-negotiable essentials that make up your nightly routine?
We really aim to be in bed no later than 10 PM. When Nico was really little, it was more like 8 PM, so staying up until 10 feels rebellious now. Going to bed with a tidy house helps clear the mind for a restful sleep. Reading instead of scrolling through social media before lights out has also helped with shutting down the mind rather than stimulating it.
Lastly, what's your favourite style of This is J jammers and why?
I'm all about relaxed long-sleeve. I love This Is J’s fabric; it feels amazing against my skin. I also appreciate that I can lounge around the house in my long sleeve and pants until I'm ready to start the day. Chic and comfortable is my love language when it comes to PJs!
