S4, Ep2 – In conversation with Andrea Thompson
15 February 2024
In this episode of Life & Smile, Dr Reena particularly wanted to focus and explore further the idea of a ‘lifestyle approach’ when it comes to building a successful career. In each of our three previous seasons, it has been so inspiring to hear the often-contrasting day-to-day routines across multiple industries and how they really make it work on a day-to-day basis.
Joined in the Harley Street recording studio for an exclusive conversation is Andrea Thompson, The Editor-in-Chief for Marie Claire UK, a title known for leading the conversation on Empowerment, Sustainability, Beauty and Style.
Listen now in full to discover how Andrea has built an incredibly successful career to date, attached to some of the most prominent names within media, including Grazia, Daily Mail, Conde Nast, and of course, Marie Claire UK.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Andrea Thompson is focused and poised as she sits with Dr Reena in the Harley Street recording studio, having already completed nine meetings throughout the day, with a long evening ahead.
Andrea shares that she has always loved fashion and beauty, reflecting on how she initially didn’t realise she could build a career in this world. Much of her inspiration stems from that era—drawing from both high fashion and beauty brands—especially during her time at the University of York.
Having now worked with some of the most prominent names in media—including Grazia, Daily Mail, Condé Nast, and, most recently, Marie Claire—Andrea reveals how she steadily worked her way through the industry.
After graduating, Andrea explains how she wrote countless letters and knocked on many doors, but her dedication paid off. Creating a world and platform for fashion and beauty at Marie Claire stands as one of her greatest achievements, particularly as the brand transitioned fully to digital.
The online magazine has since become the ultimate shortcut to style, expertly curating the best lifestyle content with leading journalism. Dr Reena and Andrea discuss how the site offers an exquisite edit, empowering the modern consumer to discover innovative ways to explore and celebrate what they love. Andrea also reveals her favourite picks for the season.
At the core of their brand is simplifying the digital experience—removing the hard work for users—and creating a platform that provides the ultimate digital journey for their audience.
On the topic of being an Editor-in-Chief, Andrea emphasises how invaluable it is to have a dedicated team to share the journey with. With her busy schedule splitting time between the office and meetings across the city, having a reliable team she can count on at a moment’s notice is essential. She also reflects on the generosity of the people in her network throughout her career and how taking things one day at a time makes the process more manageable.
Her family remains at the heart of everything she does and is, personally, her proudest achievement. Juggling multiple priorities has become a way of life, making it vital to grow comfortable with balancing it all.
Andrea finds daily inspiration in the simplest moments. She shares how exercise and mindful eating give her the energy to live life to the fullest and continuously strive toward her highest potential.
Though there is no “typical” week, despite a structured routine, Andrea concludes the conversation with excitement about the many upcoming projects and collaborations in the pipeline, making it clear she wouldn’t want it any other way.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Networking is essential. When you’re passionate about something, connecting with others in that space becomes second nature.
Don’t underestimate the power of exercise. It boosts both mental clarity and creativity.
Leverage your network. Pay attention to who you know, and don’t hesitate to reach out.
Big ideas can start over a simple coffee. Never overlook the value of casual conversations.
Great ideas often stem from solving your own problems. Personal pain points can be powerful sources of innovation.
Just get started. When launching your career, take action—don’t get stuck overthinking.
Seek guidance. Asking for advice and help is not a weakness—it’s a strength.
Embrace the chaos. You don’t need to have everything perfectly under control, especially when balancing founder life and family life.
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Previous episodes
S1, Ep1 – In conversation with Francesca Ogiermann-White
In our debut episode of Season One, Dr Reena is joined in Conversation with Francesca Ogiermann – White, Health and Beauty Editor-at-Large for Tatler Magazine and Founder of The Beauty Triangle.
S5, Ep2 – In conversation with Jo Ellison
Welcoming you back to our fifth season of Life & Smile. In this episode, Dr Reena is joined by Jo Ellison – as Deputy Editor of Financial Times Weekend and the Editor of FT How to Spend It, Jo is widely renowned as one of the most prominent figures in the world of media and magazines.
