Core Brands Podcast

If you've ever felt like your marketing isn't working, or wondered why you're posting consistently but still not attracting clients — this episode is for you. Louise McDonnell, founder of the Sell on Social platform, built a thriving digital marketing business from a small town in the west of Ireland and has been helping business owners cut through the noise ever since. We get into the fundamental...

Summary What happens when a brand and packaging designer follows a pull so strong it completely reshapes their life? In this episode, I sit down with Amerjeet, a fellow designer who made a profound pivot from the world of design into Kundalini facilitation and energy healing. We talk about what Kundalini activation actually is, what happens in a session, and why so many creatives are drawn to this...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast , our host Roberta is joined by Mary White , an Irish and EU trademark and designs attorney who helps businesses protect the value in their brands. Mary works with companies to secure intellectual property rights and safeguard the ideas, creativity, and strategy behind their brands. As the founder of two businesses herself, she also brings first-hand insi...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, host Roberta is joined by Carol Gaffney , a brand positioning strategist who helps founders attract their dream clients through self-image and brand clarity. Carol shares her journey from corporate burnout to building a personal brand photography business with her husband Phil, and how she later pivoted to focus on mentorship and brand strategy. ✨ Takea...

Summary In this episode of the Core Brands podcast, host Roberta Rechena welcomes Sanja Trajkoski, a finance professional and aspiring children's book author. Sanja shares her journey from a challenging financial upbringing in North Macedonia to becoming a successful accountant in Ireland. The conversation delves into the importance of financial literacy, the transition to entrepreneurship, and pr...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, our host Roberta dives into a timely solo episode exploring the hot topic:  AI and logo design . As a brand strategist and designer, Roberta shares her perspective on why she’s  not at all worried  about AI taking over the role of brand designers — and how the  human element  continues to be the most valuable asset in creating meaningful, effective brand...

In this episode of the Core Brands podcast, host Roberta Rechena welcomes Orla Canney, the founder of OCC Consulting, who shares her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. Orla discusses her background in HR and her passion for people development, particularly focusing on career growth for Gen Z professionals. She reflects on the challenges she faced while transitioning from a corpo...

In this first episode of 2026, Roberta Rechena shares an honest and reflective review of her 2025 — a year she initially thought was “a bit vanilla”, but quickly realised was full of lessons, challenges, and meaningful wins. Roberta opens up about the quieter side of business, fewer leads, starting a second business with her husband, and navigating a PTSD diagnosis, while also celebrating the many...

Description In this episode, Roberta Rechena discusses the importance of clarity in website design and communication. She emphasises that a website should serve as a functional tool for businesses, effectively communicating their value to potential clients. Roberta introduces the concept of 'caveman communication,' advocating for simple, jargon-free language that resonates with the audience. She s...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, our host Roberta celebrates a double birthday – her own and the podcast’s first anniversary! Roberta reflects on the first year of hosting the Core Brands Podcast – the lessons learned, what worked, what didn’t, and her vision for year two. She shares the behind-the-scenes of managing a podcast as a side project, the realities of balancing client work wi...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, host Roberta Rechena returns with a fresh format, sharing her journey from a career in project management back to her passion for design. Roberta addresses a listener's question about transitioning back into the design field after a career break, offering personal insights and practical tips for finding clients and building a successful design business....

Summary In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Aislinn Horgan shares her transformative journey from nursing to becoming a specialist in aesthetic services, focusing on the emotional and psychological impact of her work. She discusses the importance of finding purpose, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how her services help restore identity and confidence in clients. Aislinn emphas...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Jenny Douglas shares her journey from a structured career in the charity sector to becoming a professional organiser. She talks about the unexpected role of the junk drawer, how personal challenges shaped her passion for creating calm spaces, and what it felt like to step into entrepreneurship. Jenny opens up about building a business while balancing fam...

Summary In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta Rechena speaks with Donna Reilly about her journey from HR generalist to successful business owner in the wellness sector. They discuss the importance of well-being in the workplace, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of networking and community support. Donna shares her insights on maintaining personal wellness whil...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, our host Roberta is joined by Johanna, a talented photographer whose journey into the world of visual storytelling began in childhood. From a background in graphic design, Johanna transitioned into photography, where she now captures authentic moments in both family and brand settings. Her passion for preserving memories and her innovative approach to po...

In this episode, Roberta Rechena shares her personal journey with manifestation, detailing her experiences and the challenges she faced after moving to Dublin. She introduces the concept of the 'cosmic kitchen' as a metaphor for manifesting desires and emphasises the importance of mindset and community support in achieving personal goals. Roberta encourages listeners to identify what they want, fi...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast , our host Roberta is joined by Janette and Deirdre , the powerhouse sisters behind Kays Flower School . With decades of experience, they’ve revolutionised floristry education in Ireland, making it more accessible and empowering, particularly for women seeking flexible and fulfilling careers. From traditional family business roots to pioneering online flo...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast , our host Roberta is joined by Louise Langton , founder of Social Tailor. Louise is a creative force with a background in brand and web design who has recently transitioned to focus more on social media. Known for her warm energy and genuine presence, Louise shares her journey of evolving her business, the power of staying true to your lane, pricing with...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta welcomes Marisa Soares to share her inspiring journey from being a teacher in Portugal to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the field of bilingual education. She discusses her experiences living in Dubai, the challenges of transitioning from a traditional teaching role to running her own business, and the importance of innovation in education...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta Rechena discusses the essential elements that every website needs to build trust and convert visitors into paying clients. She emphasizes the importance of clear messaging, professional design, social proof, effective calls to action, and trust signals. By focusing on these key areas, business owners can create a credible online presence that enc...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast our host Roberta is joined by Celine Gill shares her unique journey into interior design, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, sensory experiences, and biophilic design in creating harmonious living spaces. She offers practical tips for homeowners feeling overwhelmed by their spaces and discusses her aspirations for the future of her business. Ta...

In this episode of the Core Brands podcast, Emma Walker shares her inspiring career journey from PR and communications to entrepreneurship. She discusses the challenges and rewards of running her own business, the importance of leadership coaching, and her experiences navigating gender dynamics in the workplace. Emma emphasizes that leadership is not about being born a leader but about hard work a...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta speaks with Michelle Lacey about her transformative journey from being a Montessori teacher to embracing holistic therapy. They discuss the profound impact of grief on personal growth, the healing power of Reiki, and the signs of connection that can be felt after losing loved ones. Michelle shares her experiences with grief, the lessons learned,...

In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta takes you behind the scenes of how she launched her podcast, sharing her simple and manageable process. From planning and recording to editing and publishing, she breaks it all down so you can see how it’s possible to start your own podcast—even with a busy life as a designer, mom, and business owner. Check the tools used and mentioned on the epi...

In this episode of the Core Brands podcast, host Roberta chats with Niamh Moynihan, founder of Better Workday. They discuss Niamh's journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of tracking time for productivity. Niamh shares her insights on hustle culture, transitioning to a limited company, and building a flexible team....