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

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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