Welcome to our fifth season of Life & Smile. For our first episode, we are delighted to welcome to the Harley Street recording studio an iconic industry insider whom many of you will instantly recognise as The Skin Engineer. As a globally renowned A-List and Hollywood facialist, join host Dr Reena in the conversation with one of the most recognised authorities in beauty and skincare—it is, of course, Adeela Crown.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Dr Reena takes things back to the beginning, welcoming Adeela to Harley Street, where it’s already been a global month. Her Red Carpet Skin Suite pop-ups have made appearances at some of the world’s most high-profile events — the Met Gala, the Oscars, the Cannes Film Festival, and various international fashion weeks — all guided by her motto:
“Prevention is smarter than cure.”
When Adeela first entered the industry, the term “facialist” didn’t even exist. Much of what she learned was entirely self-taught. Coming originally from a background in finance, she brings a scientific mindset to skincare, evaluating ingredients and techniques with analytical precision.
There has been a significant shift in public awareness – especially post-pandemic – with consumers now far more conscious of the ingredients in their skincare products and holding much higher expectations of what those products should deliver.
As a Contributing Beauty Editor at Financial Times HTSI, Adeela uniquely blends her roles as a facialist and journalist. She describes this dual identity as offering her the freedom to explore global beauty trends, with insights drawn from her personal experience treating clients in London, New York, LA, and beyond.
Looking back, Adeela reflects on the dramatic transformation the industry has undergone in just the past ten years, largely due to the rise of the Internet and new technologies. These advances have spawned a variety of new career paths and roles.
Her advice? Adaptability is key. In such a rapidly changing environment, you need to stay informed, connected, and ahead of the curve.
To keep her energy high and her focus sharp — both critical for earning and keeping her clients’ trust — Adeela describes herself as a ferocious reader. Much of her reading and research happens in-flight, where she chooses books over movies almost every time. Audiobooks help her maintain focus and keep up with her demanding schedule.
Adeela operates in different modes throughout the month. She rotates between her various roles — as a facialist, editor, mother, and wife — giving each 100% of her focus. This intentional segmentation allows her to thrive professionally while maintaining a healthy personal life.
She splits her time primarily between the UK and Germany, building her calendar in a way that reflects her priorities and values.
When travelling, Adeela always carries three essentials:
- SPF, which she deems crucial — especially during flights
- An eye mask, which helps her zone out and enjoy her audiobooks
- A skincare bag with at least four to five must-have products inside
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
The link between finance and skin is that everything needs to balance, which can be applied to all things in life.
It’s all about maintenance and developing a discipline – start to take care of your skin from a very young age and look at both genetics and environmental factors. Apply a fitness mindset to your skin.
Whatever industry you are a part of, be prepared to adapt to that changing environment and needs.
Stay one step ahead and adapt to the changing needs of your environment. Keep your finger on the pulse – you have to be reading, expanding your horizons, speaking to the right people and attending global seminars where possible.
Write those emails!
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.
Listen now as Jo takes us behind the scenes of how she makes it work on a daily basis, career advice for those just starting out in the industry and, of course, reveals those items that she can’t live without…
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Jo started the show by giving us insider insight into how she first became involved in journalism, how she moved to Ireland after falling in love, and how her career brought her back to the capital, where The Independent and British Vogue came calling.
Persistence is key; being able to follow up at least three times is essential. It’s all about making at least an impression on that person. It’s always worth putting your hand up, and Jo admits this is often easier when you are younger, as you’re not as afraid of making a fool of yourself.
The landscape of luxury and media is constantly evolving, and the conversation turns to all the topics Jo has been involved in. One of the joys of being EIC of FT How to Spend It is that the focus is on their audience taking pleasure from the subject and enjoying the content; there is no pressure to ‘move the needle’. Jo describes key standout moments throughout her career and how inspiring it is to be in a room with people who have such a level of power and influence – Bernard Arnault, for example.
In terms of what Jo would say to her younger self, or for those looking to go into journalism or content creation now, being interested in the landscape around you and being sociable is key. A simple conversation during a dinner can lead to many things—curiosity is essential, and ensuring that you remain informed. Being out in the world and being a part of the world is where the stories are; they won’t come to you sitting in front of a screen.
When it comes to her proudest achievement, the inspiring team that surrounds her at HTSI is at the forefront—collaboratively working with a point of view that is very recognisable. Having a vision and all working towards that together makes all the difference.
Regarding her daily schedule working in print production, on one side Jo is working to a very specific schedule. She follows a timeline where she knows exactly where she needs to be that week. She then navigates the likes of fashion weeks, dinners, and events, and while that side can be very far-ranging, the publishing schedule remains very exact, running in two parallels, knowing exactly what is happening most days down to the minute. Journalism can be very addictive, Jo advises, as there is always something new—each issue is a completely blank canvas.
Dr Reena and Jo align when it comes to a lifestyle approach with work; being an EIC can be all-absorbing, and Jo admits that she tends to be on most/all of the time, with the culture world being a perfect backdrop to recharge. When it comes to the generational shift, Jo loves to get ideas and observations from her daughter.
And the three items she can’t live without, which are always in her handbag—sugar-free gum is essential (oral hygiene is crucial when meeting people and at shows etc.), a bottle of water to avoid dehydration, and of course, a pen and paper, which goes back and forth with her everywhere to use alongside her laptop.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Opportunities that you never think will happen often will.
Be persistent. Knock on the door / send an email at least three times. Even if you register in someone’s mind as being annoying, at least you have made an impression.
When pitching, clarity of thought is crucial. Keep it simple and have a vision of how it would appear on the page. Exclusivity is vital. Your ideal needs to be unique and to be able to bring something new to the table.
Curiosity is essential. Be as curious and as interested in the world around you as possible.
Organisation is key – especially when your schedule is a parallel of being both organised to the minute and then very far-ranging with events and travel.
The beauty of a magazine is that each issue is a blank canvas with no two articles the same.
Try and go out and see things that are not part of your daily life – theatre, movies, long walks these are all good tactics for recharging.
It’s good to challenge ideas, people don’t want you to always say yes.
We all need an editor and for someone to say the things that you don’t always want to hear.
Dr Reena is back in the Harley Street recording studio with the third episode of season five and is joined by an industry insider many of you will instantly recognise as soon as the globally renowned brand 111SKIN is mentioned.
Introducing Eva Alexandridis – as 111SKIN’s CEO, Eva founded the iconic line alongside her world-renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon husband Dr Yannis Alexandrides, driving their commitment to excellence, upholding its luxury status, and inspiring a company culture of thought leadership and creativity.
Join the Life & Smile conversation now.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Eva opened the conversation by taking us back to the very beginning of those early years, sharing how she grew up in Eastern Europe, in Bulgaria, with a very simple upbringing. Her dedication and hard work earned her a place at the University of Moscow; however, it was a time when Bulgarians could choose to study anywhere in the world, and she headed to university in San Francisco. She cited this as her initial journey into the open world — an eye-opening experience that became the start of her entrepreneurial journey.
Eva had already started multiple companies herself, and when she met her husband in 2002, a plastic surgeon, he had already established his clinic in London at 111 Harley Street. Eva recalls how their conversations turned to the products he was using in the clinic, and how they were not fully satisfied with them — patients found the products a little reactive, and the ideal products he wanted simply did not exist yet.
They had, of course, identified a gap in the market, and thus the global brand phenomenon of 111 Skin was born. Dr Reena highlighted the differences in their backgrounds and how bringing their contrasting experiences together proved to be the ideal combination. Eva stated, “Two founders are better than one,” with Eva focusing on the experience and sensorial side, while Yannis brought forward the technical, clinical, results-driven expertise.
When asked about key standout moments and what makes the 111Skin collection and experience so unique, Eva confirmed that they have standout moments continuously. She especially appreciates those key moments, day to day, when she sees 111 Skin stocked in five-star hotels and international department stores. She considers themselves very, very fortunate. She added that although the company was started over eleven years ago, there were many behind-the-scenes battles inherent to building a brand. However, 111 Skin was created on very serious and strong foundations aligned with the principles of the medical industry.
Eva also shared that their products resonate with international audiences, so they don’t need to focus heavily on product stories.
On the topic of press, where the brand is regularly featured, and Eva’s frequent participation in panels and events with key industry leaders, Dr Reena asked about her favourite topics. Eva discussed how she prefers all conversations and audience interactions to be as organic as possible and doesn’t like to overprepare, allowing panels to steer topics naturally.
Eva smiled, confirming she is inspired by many things — for example, their hand cream, for which 100 percent of the profits go to charity. Of course, there are days when simply stepping into a spa and hearing feedback is all the inspiration she needs.
Every day is different — some days are filled with back-to-back events, others are office-focused, working across all teams within the 111 Skin brand, not to mention the regular global travelling. Eva credits staying active and cycling everywhere in London as the best way to stay mentally and physically fit, fitting in a workout throughout the day, for example, a cycle to the office is a 30-minute workout.
When it comes to the three key products Eva always has on her throughout the day, first up is her agenda and phone. She also always carries a couple of 111 Skin masks to gift to people she meets, liking to add a little highlight to their day.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Two founders are better than one, especially when you have a complementary mix of backgrounds.
Building a global brand takes hard work and effort, but also a bit of luck.
Build your brand with the strongest foundation and create a product that people internationally can resonate with.
Have real conversations with your audience – don’t overprepare for events and panels.
Staying active is the ideal way to stay on top form and focused.
In our fourth episode of Life & Smile season five, Dr Reena is joined by Pete Walker, Founder & CEO of PGW Associates Ltd. With over 35 years of renowned industry expertise in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector, listen now as Pete takes us behind the scenes of how he makes it work on a daily basis, top tips for navigating your career path and, of course, those items he can’t live without…
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Pete started the show by giving us a full insider recap of how he started and developed his career. His impressive background spans over 35 years of demonstrable success in leading and coaching teams within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. His mum was a GP and Pete went on to obtain a science degree, pivoting across multiple roles to gain valuable experience and expertise. He also emphasised the importance of remembering that there will be stages in your individual journey where it’s not all about the next grade or higher salary.
Dr Reena then turned the focus to how the landscape of business—and the industries Pete has been linked to—is constantly evolving. Pete’s background includes working with both office and field-based teams, all united by the goal of maximising full potential. One personal favourite career highlight was being involved with the Asthma guidelines (British Thoracic Society), where sharing and celebrating research played a key role.
We discussed how surrounding himself with ambitious and inspiring teams, and importantly, growing a strong network, has been essential throughout his career. Pete confirmed that humour and keeping things in perspective have been key, with high autonomy equalling high accountability. When asked about his proudest moment to date, Pete instantly named Global Pain Day, where 250,000 patients were helped.
When it comes to public speaking, Pete agreed it supports developing value-adding relationships on a global scale—stating his top tip as: practice, practice, and practice again.
Throughout his career and beyond, there is no doubt Pete has been known for inspiring others. When asked about personal mentors he has turned to or whose work ethic he admires, he cited Graham, his ex-GSK manager, notably adding:
“Over time, people will forget what you did and what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
On the topic of striking the ideal work-life balance, Pete confirmed that having outdoor options—particularly the North Wales Coast and also Italy with its hills, cities, and lakes—provides ideal backdrops to recharge. He also finds surrounding himself with inspiring people refreshing, and loves trying new restaurants. He added that everyone is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Finally, treats, strong tea, and the view from his study window in the Cotswolds are the three things we can always find at Pete’s desk that help him thrive during the day.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
When building and developing your career, aim to do what you love.
Picking the right company to develop your career with is key.
Seek feedback along the way.
Get a great coach or mentor.
[On public speaking] Practice, practice and practice again.
Do your audience research.
Don’t forget to keep your humour along the way.
‘Over time people will forget what you did and what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel’.
Join Dr Reena in the Harley Street recording studio for our fifth inspirational episode of season five. We are delighted to welcome to the Life & Smile conversation Mark Kildea – Chief Executive at Howard de Walden Estate. Listen in full as we gain an exclusive insider insight and discover just what it takes to build a wealth of career expertise, with a background which has seen Mark build a highly acclaimed decades-long real estate career.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Mark joined us by giving insider insight into how his career started, discovering that the initial route he wanted to pursue was treasury – helping large-scale companies find the funds to achieve big things. At the time, he certainly didn’t see himself becoming a finance director or a CEO; however, a treasurer role would provide him with the skills and expertise to move into those positions. He enjoyed the autonomy and influence on the direction of the business.
The landscape of business and real estate is constantly evolving, and Mark discusses how he loves the Marylebone area’s ability to marry the old with the new, highlighting the work of a recent redevelopment on Wimpole Street. One key insight Mark shares is how the big focus in real estate is becoming much more operationally driven.
In terms of career advice, Mark immediately advises: “Don’t overthink it.” He expands on this by discussing how you will most likely need to work two or three jobs before finding what you really enjoy – people often feel under pressure to find everything they want in their first step. Be patient – find your passion and then really go for it.
The episode turns to how Mark surrounds himself with an ambitious and inspiring team and, of course, grows a network across multiple industries. He emphasises the importance of being able to let go when needed, which can be challenging when you want to be involved in every little segment of the business. Hiring people who are complementary to you works well, while Mark, as the CEO, leads by showing people the way with his vision of where they are heading collaboratively.
Dr Reena explores how, during Mark’s time at Howard de Walden Estate, he has worked with many medical and commercial businesses. They debate the traits in individuals and teams that make the most successful businesses and brands – passion, creating a compelling product, and providing a great environment to work in all come out on top.
Water, a snack, and dental picks are the regulars in Mark’s daily survival bag to ensure a successful and smooth day.
When it comes to striking the ideal work-life balance, Mark confirms that every day is different. While he doesn’t quite get up at 5 a.m. every day, he stresses the importance of keeping fit, and the team around him adds uniformity to his schedule.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Patience is key – promotions will happen, but great ones take time.
Don’t overthink it – you will probably work two or three jobs before you find what you truly enjoy.
Passion drives success – if you do something with passion, you will do it well, and the money will follow.
Be patient – find your passion and then really go for it.
Start your pension early and look after your teeth!
Commit for the long term – success is a marathon, not a sprint.
Be prepared to let go of parts of the business you’ve delegated to others, while continuing to lead the full team and show people the way.
On leadership – you show people the trail, the right path, and take them with you.
Joining Dr Reena in our latest episode is Bridget March, the award-winning multi-platform Beauty Director for Harper’s Bazaar UK, overseeing all beauty content, including wellbeing.
From news and interviews to tutorials and treatment reviews, Bridget is one of the most prominent figures in the beauty industry providing the latest expert advice and ensuring that we all stay one step ahead of the latest trends and launches.
Listen to the full conversation now to gain behind-the-scenes access to her best industry tips and career turning points in an exclusive chat you’ll definitely want to be a part of.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
The show opens with a mini recap of Bridget’s bio to date – highlighting how she has built a highly acclaimed, award-winning career as a journalist and beauty director. Her impressive list of accolades includes Online Beauty/Grooming Journalist of the Year at the Fashion & Beauty Monitor Journalism Awards 2015, Best Online Beauty Journalist at the Johnson & Johnson Beauty Journalism Awards, among others.
Bridget discusses how she built her industry network through interning, which allowed her to get her foot in the door. Her strategic focus on the digital side was deliberate, recognising the potential of emerging digital platforms just as glossy magazines were evolving. She was there from the start and steadily worked her way up.
The constant evolution of social media fascinates Bridget, who explains how the volume of digital content being produced is immense. A personal favourite aspect of her work is growing different content areas, watching them flourish and seeing initial ideas come to life and take flight.
On career advice, Bridget emphasises the importance of avoiding comparison culture, affirming that there is space for everyone. She also advises that when entering an industry, it’s smart to focus on less saturated areas — look at what you can uniquely offer.
Bridget highlights the problem of content pollution in the digital space and stresses that creating content with usefulness and purpose is vital.
Regarding her biggest achievements, while winning awards is always special for the validation and recognition it brings, Bridget’s greatest privilege lies in the work she does daily and the incredible people she meets. Her content often gives a voice to other experts — whether a dermatologist, surgeon, or cosmetic dentist — sharing their advice with readers who might not have access to them directly.
Balancing it all as a mum, Bridget confirms the juggle is real. At the time of recording, Bridget held a key role as Beauty Director at Harper’s Bazaar, typically splitting her week between half in the office and half working from home, coordinating her London days with her husband. They are very hands-on parents, which takes a lot of planning and organisation with commuting, but they have their routine down to a T.
A typical day for Bridget is dynamic – filled with meetings with experts, press events, and interviews with celebrities, either in person or remotely. The rest of her time is spent writing, editing, reviewing video edits, and commissioning freelancers.
So, what’s in Bridget’s mini survival kit to stay on point all day? A toothpick is vital, along with about a million lip balms, and an SPF for lunchtime top-ups.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Believe in yourself, even if you’re not naturally confident.
There is space for everyone; avoid the comparison culture.
Be strategic about entering your chosen industry — consider focusing on less oversubscribed areas.
Focus on your work and what you can offer.
Avoid content pollution by contributing meaningful, purposeful content to the conversation.
In our latest episode of Life & Smile, Dr Reena turns the topic towards an industry she is right at the heart of: dentistry. Joined in conversation with a renowned industry leader; after graduating with distinction from Guy’s, Kings, and St Thomas Institute of Dentistry, Dr Richard Marques is a renowned celebrity dentist who cares for some of the most celebrated smiles in Showbiz and beyond.
Listen in full to discover his top tips for being in front of the camera, the journey to treating many highly complex dental cases successfully with a special interest in complex restorative, aesthetic and implant dentistry, and, of course, those items and places in his little black book.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Dr Richard kicked off the conversation by revealing that he comes from a family of dentists, which initially sparked his interest in the field, beginning with his grandfather.
He was later further inspired by his father, whose passion and joy for the profession were contagious. It was this energy, along with the opportunity to help so many people, that solidified his desire to pursue dentistry. Seeing how you could build a team, run your own business, while also having fun, made it clear that dentistry was the path Dr Richard was destined to follow.
Fast forward to today, where he looks after some of the most recognised smiles in showbiz, the conversation shifted to media and practical tips. One key takeaway: being yourself in front of the camera is essential—and never underestimate how helpful and engaging even the simplest tips can be for your audience.
Dr Reena expanded on the media discussion, highlighting Dr Richard’s dedicated social media following. In an era where digitalisation and consumer demand for instant access has transformed how we work and communicate, a strong online presence is more important than ever.
Dr Richard confirmed that building a dedicated profile is crucial. Embracing various platforms and, importantly, showcasing your personality and your work is key. As he puts it: “You could be the best cosmetic dentist in the world, but if nobody can see your work, they’ll never know.”
When it comes to treating celebrity patients, the focus is always on delivering exemplary treatment results while also providing a genuine, human experience, regardless of how famous the patient may be.
Among his proudest moments: being recognised by industry leaders, being selected for high-profile TV opportunities, and maintaining a mindset that you never stop learning. Dentistry is evolving at a rapid pace, and Dr Richard emphasises the importance of remaining adaptable and open to new knowledge.
In terms of what inspires him, Dr Richard shares that you can find incredible mentors in people you may never meet, thanks to the wealth of platforms and publications that allow for global access to knowledge and inspiration.
And finally, the three items that make it into Dr Richard’s mini survival kit?
Coffee, AirPods, and his Third Space membership make the final cut!
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Don’t underestimate how interesting and helpful the basics can be, knowledge-wise to your audience.
On social media, it’s all about building a profile and getting across your personality.
On building a patient base – if people connect with you, they are much more likely to trust you to be the one to do their treatment.
You could be the best cosmetic dentist in the world but if nobody can see your work, no one will ever know.
Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth.
Concentrate on the work, not only the person you’re treating.
People want a human experience, however famous they may be.
Aim to always be ever-improving – embrace lifelong learning.
Joining Dr Reena in our latest episode of Life & Smile is Sonia Haria. As an industry great, Sonia is an award-winning journalist, brand consultant and author with over fifteen years of experience in the beauty industry. Sonia has been the Beauty Director of Telegraph Media Group since 2016 and works closely with the British Beauty Council, sitting on the Council’s Advisory Board and Policy Committee.
Listen in full as Sonia reveals the inspiration for launching her debut book South Asian Beauty, how she built her career and tips for making it work so effortlessly on a daily basis. Plus of course this episode wouldn’t be complete without Sonia revealing her little black book of products she can’t live without and places to visit – be prepared to take notes.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
The show opens with a mini recap of Sonia’s journey so far – she was a real bookworm as a child, and from the age of ten, she knew she wanted to become a journalist. Beauty wasn’t always on her radar – she was initially focused on news – but working on a makeup counter on weekends in Sloane Square opened up a whole new world.
She later secured a placement at The Telegraph, where a three-week internship turned into six months. Sonia was then offered a role as an editorial assistant, which she took on while completing her third year at university. She’s now been with the publication for seventeen years.
The beauty desk had always been in the background — and it was the most incredible part of the newsroom. Beauty, empowerment, working with women, and lifestyle combined into what Sonia describes as the ultimate mix. It’s been a long journey, but a brilliant one.
Sonia’s passion lies in storytelling – the ability to express something powerful through words. Starting with a blank page and turning it into something magical is, for her, the ultimate creative privilege. Sitting behind a laptop to write is where she feels most at home.
She especially loves being part of the constantly changing language of beauty. During the pandemic, The Telegraph pivoted to become a “beauty news desk,” working closely with the British Beauty Council and positioning themselves at the forefront of breaking news. They used social media as a key tool to communicate messages from industry leaders.
Social media’s evolution is something Sonia has watched closely throughout her career. She believes that getting out into the world and gaining hands-on experience is crucial — nothing beats learning on the job. With the industry becoming more digital, it’s now harder for the younger generation to develop these real-world skills.
On her daily commute, Sonia always has an audiobook playing. She limits her time on social media to make space for reading and staying culturally in tune — particularly because it’s so easy to get distracted.
The conversation then turns to her debut book, South Asian Beauty, a celebrated release packed with advice, history, and cultural insight. Drawing on her experience as a beauty journalist, Sonia reflects on how exciting it is to be South Asian right now – something brands are finally beginning to celebrate. The book has launched in both India and the US.
And finally, what’s in Sonia’s mini survival kit to stay on point throughout the day? A voice recorder is always in her handbag, along with a lip product, her phone, a notepad, and pen… or, more realistically, a toy that belongs to her young daughter.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Beauty is not just about vanity — while it’s nice to present yourself in a certain way, it’s deeply tied to confidence and how you feel inside.
Nothing ever beats on-the-job experience — hands-on learning is invaluable.
Keep an open mind with journalism — you don’t have to specialise; writing across a variety of topics all comes down to being a really good communicator.
Push yourself and meet people in person — personal connections and stepping out of your comfort zone are essential for growth.
Back in the Harley Street recording studio, join Life & Smile host Dr Reena in conversation with one of the creative industry’s leading figures – Sheena Bhattessa. As an actress and the Founder of Citizen Femme, the ultimate travel and style guide for globetrotting women, this is the perfect episode to inspire.
Listen in full as Sheena reveals how she built her career and manages to make everything work so seamlessly on a day-to-day basis. She also gives us insider insight into how the editorial and digital landscape has evolved. Of course, the conversation wouldn’t be complete without those favourite items that make up her mini survival kit day to day and the latest places to visit for our radar.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Sheena begins the show by confirming she has had a very colourful life to date. She initially studied business and law, but this was not something she found herself utilising, as she had always wanted to do something creative—such as acting or being a news broadcaster. She then attended acting school in New York for two years, which she describes as “the best time of my life, incredible.”
Sheena then returned to London, got herself an agent, and started acting while simultaneously working in PR. Although she didn’t love PR, she was good at it—building relationships, networking, and engaging in conversation.
After being part of a play that toured America, Sheena went freelance as a PR consultant, essentially starting her own business. This revealed an entrepreneurial and creative side to her that had always been present.
Sheena then started her own PR company, stating that she hated it, but soon pivoted to launching Citizen Femme—a venture that filled a gap in the market and enabled her to continue acting. This pathway led her to do what she now loves, something that truly doesn’t feel like work.
Going against the grain to fulfil her dreams ensured she combined the business discipline with her creative streak. Sheena describes herself as a storyteller—someone who loves telling stories and is the go-to creative person in her family.
Choosing to keep Citizen Femme digital was a conscious decision. They produce content daily and at a very fast pace, supported by an incredible team of writers. Their audience returns every single day because there is always fresh content and something inspiring to discover. The team is given free rein to run with their ideas, allowing them to be instinctively reactive.
Regarding personal favourite projects, although the platform has been running for seven years, they have recently experienced a surge in awareness and recently held their first event in New York.
Sheena admits her biggest challenge is that she is fearless, but also appreciates the support system that allows her to take risks—something not everyone has. This support enables her to try, experiment, and follow her dreams. She reflects that when she built Citizen Femme, the wages from her acting paid the salaries of the team she was building.
Sheena has never had a particular mentor, but the conversations and interviews surrounding her platform inspire her to keep going. Every day is different, and since having children, she has become even more productive with her time. Organisation is key, as is having a village to help, and she has gradually built up the ability to manage it all.
And the top three items Sheena is never without? Always lip balm, AirPods for podcasts and audiobooks, plus her phone or laptop—ones no doubt we can all relate to!
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Confidence is key, and it will open opportunities for you.
Networking and connections will open many opportunities.
Don’t be afraid to follow your instinct and combine what you love.
Don’t be afraid of hard work – nothing replaces hard work.
There is a maturity that comes with going through your twenties and thirties.
Anything worthwhile takes time.
