Shows
Core Brands PodcastEp 23 - Stop Overcomplicating Your WebsiteDescriptionIn 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 shares insights on how to structure content for better user experience and conversion rates, urging designers to prioritise clarity over complexity.TakeawaysA website should work for your business 24/7.Clarity in design leads...
2025-12-1111 minCore Brands PodcastEp 22 - The Core Brands Podcast Turns One: A Candid Look Back (and Forward)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 with content creation, and the evolving structure of the show.If you’re a creative entrepreneur, podcaster, or just curious about what it’s like to run...
2025-11-2715 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 21 - How to find graphic design clients? Sharing what worked for me.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. Tune in to discover how Roberta navigated her own career shifts, the importance of networking, and strategies for showcasing your work effectively. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable...
2025-09-1611 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 20 - Healing with Ink: How Aislinn Horgan Is Redefining RecoverySummaryIn 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 emphasises the emotional connections she builds with her clients, the challenges of balancing business and personal life, and the necessity of continuous learning in her field. She also highlights the need for recognition of her work as a vital...
2025-06-3032 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 19 - From Chaos to Calm: The Power of a Well-Organised Home with Jenny DouglasIn 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 family life, the value of outsourcing, and why an organised home supports mental clarity.Roberta and Jenny dive into the emotional side of decluttering, especially when it comes to sentimental items. Jenny explains...
2025-06-2349 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 18 - Empowering Wellness in the Workplace with Donna ReillySummaryIn 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 while managing a growing business and highlights the evolving landscape of workplace wellness post-COVID. The conversation concludes with Donna's future plans for her business and how she envisions the role of well-being in organizations moving forward.
2025-06-1632 min
Dos cinco cantos do mundoA festa dos portugueses em DublinComo foi assinalado o dia de Portugal em Dublin?
Como foi a festa da vitoria de Portugal na liga das nações em Dublin?
A barreirense Roberta Rechena, em destaque em Dublin
As tarifas de Tramp já chegaram a Dublin?
2025-06-1106 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 17 - Bottling Up the Magic: Johanna on Capturing Authentic MomentsIn 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 portraits bring a unique perspective to the craft.Photography has always been a part of Johanna's life.She transitioned from graphic design to photography.Capturing moments allows people to relive emotions.Printing photos enhances their emotional value...
2025-06-0240 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 16 - Manifest Like a Designer: Cosmic Kitchen Orders to the Universe!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, find their supportive tribe, and take proactive steps towards their aspirations.TakeawaysRoberta shares her spontaneous decision to record this episode.She discusses her family's move from Portugal to...
2025-05-2609 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 15 - From Family Business to Global Brand: The Kays Flower School StoryIn 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 floral education, they’ve trained award-winning florists across Ireland and beyond.Kay’s Flower School began in 1987 as Ireland’s first accessible floristry training center, founded by Janette and Deirdre’s mother, Kay.The sisters pivoted to online teaching during the pandemic...
2025-05-1938 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 14 - From Underpaid to Unapologetic - A Real Talk on Pricing with Louise LangtonIn 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 confidence, and how embracing tech like AI is transforming her creative workflow.TakeawaysSimplicity and fun in business can be more effective than following trends.The importance...
2025-04-211h 15
Core Brands PodcastFrom Underpaid to Unapologetic - A Real Talk on Pricing with Louise LangtonIn 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 confidence, and how embracing tech like AI is transforming her creative workflow.TakeawaysSimplicity and fun in business can be more effective than following trends.
2025-04-211h 14
Core Brands PodcastEp 13 - Innovating Education: Marisa Soares on Bilingual LearningIn 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. Marisa also offers valuable insights on raising bilingual children, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the significance of treating a passion-driven business as a legitimate enterprise. The conversation concludes with Marisa's future plans for her educational resources and...
2025-04-1441 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 12 - The Secret to a Website That Attracts, Engages & Converts ClientsIn 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 encourages engagement and sales.TakeawaysYour website is your digital storefront.Clear messaging is crucial for visitor engagement.Keep content concise to cater to short attention spans.
2025-03-3115 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 11 - Creating Homes That Feel Good: Sustainable & Sensory Design with Celine GillIn 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.Takeaways Celine's journey into interior design was not straightforward but rather organic. Sustainability in design is about long-term thinking and quality over quantity. Awareness of sensory experiences in the home can greatly impact well-being...
2025-03-2434 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 10 - The Art of Authentic Leadership: Emma Walker on Coaching and EntrepreneurshipIn 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 and authenticity. She also reflects on her recognition in the 30 under 30 awards and offers valuable advice to her younger self about embracing change and the concept of 'never'.
Takeaways
Emma's career journey began...
2025-02-1033 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 09 - Signs, Energy, and Healing: Talking about Grief and Growth with Michelle LaceyIn 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, and how she found her purpose in helping others heal emotionally and spiritually. In this conversation, Michelle and Roberta explore the themes of signs from the universe, energy healing, and the power of manifestation through vision...
2025-01-2748 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 08 - How I Started My Podcast: Tools, Process, and Tips!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 episode:
Recording and Magic clips: Riverside
Project Management: Dubsado
Editing episodes: Premiere Pro
What You’...
2025-01-2009 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 07 - Creating Joy at Work and Building a Better Workday with Niamh MoynihanIn 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. The conversation concludes with practical tips for creating a better workday and Niamh's future plans for her business.
Takeaways
Niamh's journey to entrepreneurship was fueled by her desire...
2025-01-1329 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 06 - 2024 Year in Review: Highlights, Challenges, and Intentions for 2025In this solo episode, Roberta reflects on her experiences in 2024, sharing both the highlights and challenges she faced. She discusses her personal and professional growth, including networking successes, a rebranding journey, and the importance of maintaining boundaries. Despite encountering difficulties, such as project delays and a troubling personal experience, Roberta emphasises gratitude for the positive aspects of her year and outlines her intentions for 2025, focusing on health, creativity, and connection.
Takeaways
Reflecting on the past year is essential for growth.
Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Rebranding can rejuvenate a business and its...
2025-01-0618 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 05 - The Nightmare Client: Red Flags, Communication and Lessons Learned.In this episode, host Roberta shares her experience with a nightmare client, detailing the red flags she encountered, the communication breakdowns that led to project delays, and the emotional toll it took on her. She emphasizes the importance of having a contract, recognizing red flags, and maintaining boundaries in client relationships. Roberta also highlights the support she received from her network and offers advice on how to handle difficult clients in the future.
Takeaways
You're not alone in facing difficult clients.
Always have a signed contract before starting work.
Trust your intuition and recognize red flags...
2024-12-1619 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 04 - Simplifying Social Media with Karen McCarthyIn this inspiring episode, Roberta interviews Karen McCarthy, the founder of The Simplified Social Media. Karen shares her unique journey from aspiring singer and journalist to a successful entrepreneur. She discusses overcoming her fear of being on camera, the importance of authenticity in client relationships, and her transition from one-to-one client work to group programs. Karen offers invaluable advice on balancing personal wellness with professional growth, selecting a profitable niche, and creating impactful online businesses.
Listeners will gain insights into Karen’s experiences in building her brand, fostering genuine client connections, and crafting a su...
2024-12-0941 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 03 - Personal Story: Changing Careers in My Late 30s (Again!)Redefining Success: Changing Careers in My Late 30s (Again!)
In this episode, host Roberta opens up about her unique career path, from her beginnings in art and design to navigating various professional roles and ultimately returning to her roots as a designer. Roberta shares pivotal experiences that taught her the value of embracing change and following her true passions. With a focus on authenticity and courage, she encourages listeners to be open to career shifts and to pursue what genuinely resonates with them, no matter where they are in life.
Key Takeaways
Pursuing multiple...
2024-11-2713 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 02 - Gemstones with a Purpose: Lyndsey's Story of Kind JewelsIn this episode of Core Brands, host Roberta interviews Lyndsey, the founder of Kind Jewels, a brand that prioritizes ethical and sustainable jewelry practices. They delve into Lyndsey's inspiring journey from a corporate career to establishing her own business, driven by a life-changing trip to Africa that sparked her passion for ethical jewelry. Lyndsey shares how she built Kind Jewels, navigating challenges like finding reliable suppliers and maintaining transparency in gemstone sourcing. She also discusses her commitment to educating consumers about where their jewelry comes from and her upcoming initiatives, including recently launched ambassador program and online jewelry-making courses.
2024-11-2741 min
Core Brands PodcastEp 01 - Welcome to Core Brands Podcast.In this episode, Roberta introduces the Core Brands podcast and shares her vision for this exciting new venture. She’ll give you a sneak peek into what’s to come, from real conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs to solo episodes where she’ll dive into brand strategy, personal development, and business insights.
Stay Connected:
Follow Roberta on Instagram: @designbyroberta
Follow Core and Form on Instagram: @coreandformdesign
Visit the website for freebies, resources and learn on how you can work with Roberta
Subscribe and leave a review if you enjoye...
2024-10-2103 min