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 ups: awards, returning clients, personal growth, fitness, networking, and the evolution of the Core Brands podcast.

She reflects on what 2025 taught her as a business owner, designer, and human, and shares her intention for 2026 — simplification, boldness, and visibility. This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and acknowledge both the highs and lows of your own year.

• A “quiet” year doesn’t mean an unimportant year
• Reflecting helps you see growth you may have forgotten
• Fewer leads doesn’t always mean less meaningful work
• It’s okay to build projects slowly when life is full
• Awareness and support are essential when navigating mental health
• Returning clients are a powerful sign of trust
• Personal growth and business growth are deeply connected
• Simplifying your business can create more clarity for everyone
• Visibility is a choice — and a practice
• Both ups and downs deserve to be acknowledged

“It felt like a vanilla year — until I actually looked at it.”

“Quiet doesn’t mean unsuccessful.”

“Simplifying is not removing value, it’s keeping what matters.”

00:00 Welcome to 2026 & why this episode was delayed

03:00 Reflecting on a ‘vanilla’ year

04:30 The quieter side of business & fewer leads

07:00 Starting a second business with my husband

10:30 Mental health, PTSD & transparency

13:30 Adobe Max, fitness & personal growth

17:00 Awards, returning clients & proud moments

21:00 The brand photoshoot that changed everything

24:30 Networking, podcast growth & six years in business

28:30 Simplification, boldness & intentions for 2026

Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠

Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta Rechena

Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates

Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠

Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating!

year in review, business reflection, entrepreneurship, branding, creative business, personal growth, mental health, podcasting, simplification, visibility, small business journey, 2025 review, 2026 intentions

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 shares insights on how to structure content for better user experience and conversion rates, urging designers to prioritise clarity over complexity.

Takeaways

• A website should work for your business 24/7.
• Clarity in design leads to better results.
• The audience should feel like the hero of the story.
• Avoid overwhelming visitors with excessive content.
• Use plain language to communicate effectively.
• Shorter paragraphs and clear typography enhance readability.
• Simplicity in messaging builds confidence in your brand.
• Visitors leave if they can't find answers quickly.
• Clarity is more important than detailed storytelling.
• Challenge yourself to simplify your website content.

Titles

Mastering Website Clarity for Better Engagement

Caveman Communication: Simplifying Your Message

Sound bites

"The simpler, the better."

"Clarity is authority."

"Speak simply, say what you do."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Website Clarity

10:31 Caveman Communication: Simplifying Your Message

Stay connected with Roberta:

Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠

Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta Rechena

Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates

Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠

Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating!

Keywords

website design, clarity, communication, branding, user experience, conversion, simplicity, content strategy, web design tips, audience engagement

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 a personal brand podcast, this episode is packed with honest reflections and valuable insights.

Takeaways

The Core Brands Podcast started as a personal outlet after facing challenges pitching herself as a guest on other shows.

Roberta initially planned a light schedule (two episodes/month), but shifted to weekly releases – a decision she later reconsidered.

Guest episodes performed best, both in reach and engagement, thanks to guest promotion.

Solo episodes suffered due to time constraints, but they remain a key goal for the future.

Marketing the podcast took over her main business socials, highlighting the importance of balance in content strategy.

Plans for year two include:

Returning to a two-episode/month cadence.

Recording more spontaneous solo episodes (audio-only when needed!).

Developing a stronger visual identity and creating a dedicated media kit.

Reaching out to dream guests with bold confidence.

Chapters

00:00 – Birthday celebration & podcast anniversary

02:00 – Why Roberta started her own podcast

04:30 – The original plan vs. reality of the podcast cadence

06:00 – Challenges of promoting weekly episodes

08:00 – Reflections on guest dynamics & invitations

09:20 – Favorite tools: Riverside.fm & editing process

10:50 – Top 3 most played episodes

12:00 – Gratitude for Spotify followers

12:30 – Vision and goals for year two

14:00 – Embracing imperfect solo episodes

15:00 – Slower cadence = better promotion & sustainability

16:00 – Final reflections and appreciation

Stay connected with Roberta:

Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠

Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta Rechena

Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates

Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠

Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating!

Resources mentioned:

⁠Riverside.fm⁠ – Roberta’s go-to platform for recording and hosting her podcast (affiliate link in episode notes)

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 advice to help you thrive in the creative industry.Resources mentioned:Book Yourself Solid for Creatives - by Michael Port and Joana Galvão: https://amzn.to/4pHAmjR

✨ Let’s connect:

Instagram: @coreandformdesign

LinkedIn: Roberta Rechena

Website: coreandformdesign.com

📩 Ready to build a brand that feels like you and attracts the right clients? Explore my services here: coreandformdesign.com/services

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 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 part of recovery for individuals undergoing significant life changes.

Takeaways

Aislinn transitioned from nursing to artistry, discovering her creative side.COVID-19 prompted Aislinn to evaluate her purpose and career path.Her work focuses on restoring identity and confidence for clients.Emotional connections with clients are crucial in her practice.Balancing business and personal life is an ongoing challenge.Client stories highlight the transformative power of her services.Continuous learning and upskilling are essential in her field.Recognition of her work is vital for its acceptance in the medical community.Aislinn believes in the importance of self-love and personal transformation.She aims to raise awareness about the psychological impact of her services.

Sound Bites

"Was there always an artist underneath the scrubs?""It was only when I really took a step back.""I felt there was something more I could give.""It’s not just a cosmetic thing.""I will cry with them. I will listen to them.""It’s about restoring your sense of self.""This is only the start of it."

Chapters

00:00 From Nursing to Artistry: A Journey of Transformation04:31 Finding Purpose: The Impact of COVID-1908:43 Restoring Identity: The Importance of Aesthetic Services12:03 Emotional Connections: Navigating Client Experiences18:32 Balancing Business and Personal Life25:44 The Power of Transformation: Client Stories27:56 Continuous Learning: The Need for Upskilling32:57 Future Aspirations: Recognition and Growth

Connect with Aislinn:

Website: www.byaislinn.ie

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @byaislinn.ie

LinkedIn: Aislinn Horgan

Stay in touch with Roberta:

Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠

Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates

Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠

⁠Book a Free Discovery Call⁠ if you're interested in collaborating!

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 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 how she supports clients through the feelings attached to their belongings and why it is important to understand the stories these items carry. They explore practical approaches to decluttering, how to get family involved, and the benefits of working with a professional organiser. Jenny also shares her love for organising utility rooms and her hopes for the future of her business, A Good Moment.

Takeaways

A junk drawer has a place in every home.

A calm environment supports a calm mind.

Personal experiences often guide our passions.

Career transitions can be challenging but deeply rewarding.

Outsourcing frees time to focus on what matters.

Regular organisation helps maintain clarity.

Starting a business means balancing work and family.

Mentorship and networking make a difference.

Sentimental items carry emotional weight.

Decluttering is personal and often emotional.

Supporting clients through decisions is essential.

It is okay to keep items that hold meaning.

Clutter often holds stories.

Professional organising improves wellbeing.

Start small to avoid overwhelm.

Family involvement can make decluttering easier.

Sound Bites

“Every home needs a junk drawer.”

“If not now, when?”

“One person’s junk is another person’s treasure.”

“Clutter can carry stories.”

“Start super small.”

Chapters

00:00 The Organised Junk Drawer

06:08 Personal Struggles to Passion

14:08 From Charity Work to Entrepreneurship

18:05 Challenges of a New Business

23:35 Outsourcing What You Can

26:13 Navigating Sentimental Clutter

37:00 The Emotional Side of Decluttering

48:00 Favourite Spaces to Organise

49:58 What’s Next for A Good Moment

Connect with Jenny:

Website: www.agoodmomentcompany.ieInstagram: @agoodmomentcompanyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-good-moment-company/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agoodmomentcompany

• Stay in touch with Roberta:
• Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠
• Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠
• Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
• Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠
• ⁠Book a Free Discovery Call⁠ if you're interested in collaborating!

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 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.

Takeaways

The importance of having a supportive team to achieve business goals.

Well-being initiatives can significantly reduce absenteeism and increase engagement.

Transitioning from employee to business owner requires adaptability and resilience.

Networking with other business owners can alleviate feelings of isolation.

Self-awareness is crucial for maintaining personal well-being.

Perseverance is key in overcoming initial business challenges.

There is a strong sense of community among entrepreneurs in similar fields.

Success is measured not just by awards but by individual impacts on clients.

Workplace wellness is becoming an integral part of business culture.

Employees need to take ownership of their own well-being.

Sound Bites

"More people, please."

"It's a full life, controlled busy."

"Naivety was probably my biggest strength."

"Perseverance, 100% was a huge challenge."

"There's enough business to go around."

"It's about the individual impact."

"It's not going anywhere, it's here to stay."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker

01:42 Transitioning from HR to Business Ownership

06:20 Building a Team and Overcoming Challenges

10:22 Perseverance and Networking in Business

15:36 Maintaining Wellness as a Business Owner

19:07 Common Challenges Among Entrepreneurs

24:49 Success Stories and Impact

27:35 Future Plans and Growth

30:13 The Evolving Landscape of Workplace Wellness

34:27 Connecting with Donna Reilly

Stay connected with Donna:

https://www.donnareillywellness.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnareillywellness/

https://www.instagram.com/donnareillypeoplewellness/

Stay connected with Roberta:

Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @corenandformdesign

Connect on LinkedIn

Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates

Visit the Core and Form website

Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating!

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 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.
• Family photography captures the magic of everyday life.
• Teenagers can be challenging subjects for photography.
• Authenticity is key in brand photography.
• Johanna aims to create stripped-down portraits.
• The essence of a person can be captured without props.
• Done is better than perfect when it comes to printing.

00:00 – Introduction and Icebreaker
03:08 – Journey into Photography
06:12 – The Evolution of a Photographer
09:03 – Capturing Moments: The Power of Photography
12:11 – The Importance of Printing Photos
14:54 – Bottling Up the Magic in Family Photography
18:09 – Challenges in Capturing Teenagers
21:04 – Brand Photography: Authenticity in Business
23:52 – Exploring New Portrait Concepts
27:03 – Conclusion and Future Directions

Connect with Johanna:

Free Education Resources:

• https://www.johannakingphotography.com/education/
  
• 
  https://courses.johannakingphotography.com/photo-print-planner
  
• 
  https://courses.johannakingphotography.com/photo-review-2025
  
• 
  https://courses.johannakingphotography.com/edits-for-print

• Website: www.johannakingphotography.com
• Instagram: @johannakingphotography
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johannakingphoto

  
  

  Stay in touch with Roberta:

• Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @coreandformdesign
• Connect on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
• Visit the Core and Form website
• Book a Free Discovery Call if you're interested in collaborating!

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.

Takeaways

Roberta shares her spontaneous decision to record this episode.

She discusses her family's move from Portugal to Dublin for better opportunities.

The concept of 'cosmic kitchen' is introduced as a way to manifest desires.

Roberta emphasizes the importance of mindset in achieving goals.

She highlights the role of community in the manifestation process.

Roberta's experience with Yvonne Traken's Manifestation Challenge is shared.

The significance of knowing what you want is stressed.

Finding a supportive community is crucial for personal growth.

Roberta encourages listeners to take action instead of complaining.

She acknowledges the challenges of being in a new country with a young family.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Manifestation Journey

03:13 The Cosmic Kitchen Concept

05:46 Building a Supportive Community

09:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Stay connected with The Core Makers and visit their shop:

Instagram and website www.thecoremakers.com

Stay connected with Roberta:

• Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠
• Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta Rechena
• Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
• Visit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠
• Book a Free Discovery Call: Schedule Here

  
  

  Connect with Yvonne Tchrakian on Instagram

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 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, creating a highly personal and interactive digital learning experience.
• Their online floristry training has helped hundreds start new careers, particularly empowering women returning to the workforce.
• The school has gained international recognition, winning “Floral Educator of the Year” in the U.S. and partnering with global floral influencers.
• Graduates of Kays Flower School have gone on to win numerous industry awards and open successful businesses across Ireland and the UK.
• Their courses are not only for aspiring business owners but also cater to hobbyists and those exploring creative passions.

00:01 – Meet Janette and Deirdre of Kays Flower School
01:00 – Flower Icebreaker: What flower would you be?
04:00 – The Story Behind Kays Flower School
07:00 – Pivoting During the Pandemic: Going Online
11:00 – Creating a Personal Online Learning Experience
20:00 – Going Global: Teaching in the U.S. and Beyond
26:00 – Student Success Stories
31:00 – Shifting Careers and Creative Fulfilment
36:00 – Emotional Power of Flowers
37:00 – How to Get Started with Kays Flower School

Connect with Kays Flower School:

Website: ⁠https://www.kaysflowerschool.com⁠Instagram: ⁠@kaysflowerschool⁠LinkedIn: ⁠Kay’s Flower School⁠

Free taster course: https://www.kaysflowerschool.com/free-flower-course

Listen to Kays Flower School Podcast

Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@corenandformdesign⁠Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta RechenaSubscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updatesVisit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠Book a Free Discovery Call: Contact Page