Core Brands Podcast

Roberta Rechena
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Core Brands is a podcast that dives into branding, entrepreneurship, and the journey of building impactful businesses. Hosted by Roberta, a brand strategist and designer, the show features candid conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs who’ve built their brands from the ground up. Roberta also shares solo episodes with insights on brand strategy, personal growth, and business tips. Tune in every two weeks for real stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies to help you build your own brand.

  1. 19H AGO

    Ep 27 - Let’s Talk Money: A Chat with Sanja Trajkoski

    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 practical tips for managing finances. Sanja emphasises the significance of teaching children about money and shares her personal experiences in instilling financial values in her daughter. The episode concludes with Sanja's aspirations for the future and the importance of self-care in business. Takeaways Sanja started working at the age of 16 to earn money.Financial security is crucial before starting a business.It's important to analyse and organize your expenses.Teaching children about money should be fun and engaging.Financial education starts at home and can be informal.Savings and financial planning are essential for stability.Investing in knowledge is key to making informed decisions.Open conversations about money can help demystify it for children.Self-care is important for entrepreneurs to avoid burnout. Building a business takes time and requires patience. Sound bites "I started working at the age of 16." "Start from the expenses." "Education is basically for free." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sanja Trajkoski 04:51 Sanja's Journey into Finance 11:06 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 15:04 The Importance of Financial Security 18:25 Practical Tips for Financial Management 26:03 Teaching Financial Literacy to Children 36:11 Future Aspirations and Self-Care Stay connected with Roberta: Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta RechenaSubscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updatesVisit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating! Stay connected with Sanja: LinkedInSanja’s Instagram - Money tips for familiesBTS Accounting Services Instagram - Accounting & Financial ConsultingWebsite

    42 min

  2. FEB 5

    Ep 26 - Dear Business Owners: Stop Using AI for Your Logo

    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 identities.🔑 Takeaways:AI lacks context and originality: While tools like ChatGPT or other AI logo generators can spit out designs quickly, they often rely on clichés and obvious visuals.Human connection drives good design: A designer brings nuance, research, emotional intelligence, and collaborative insight to a branding process — something AI simply cannot replicate.Trademarks matter: AI doesn’t evaluate existing brand identities or copyright issues, which could lead to expensive legal mistakes.Mood boards and visuals need strategy: Roberta explains why she avoids using ChatGPT for mood boards and prefers a thoughtful creative process over shortcuts.AI as a tool, not a replacement: While Roberta uses AI for certain tasks like mockups or visual generation, she emphasizes that tools should support — not replace — creative thinking.Better to start small: If you can’t afford branding yet, use a simple logotype with a clean font — not a generic AI-generated design. ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction 1:10 – Why Roberta Isn’t Worried About AI 2:30 – What Makes a Human-Centered Logo Unique 4:45 – AI’s Reliance on Clichés 6:50 – Context Matters: Real-World Logo Applications 9:00 – The Legal Risk of AI-Generated Logos 11:15 – Better Alternatives for Beginners 13:00 – Mood Boards and the Creative Process 15:00 – When It’s OK to Use AI in Design 17:20 – Final Thoughts on AI and the Human Touch 💬 Stay connected with Roberta: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:Adobe FireflyCanva / Adobe ExpressChatGPT“NanoBanana” AI tool

    11 min

  3. JAN 22

    Ep 25 - Empowering Gen Z: Insights from Orla Canney on Career Development

    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 corporate job to running her own business full-time, emphasizing the importance of networking and seeking advice from experienced mentors. Orla also highlights the evolving workplace dynamics, particularly how Gen Z values work-life balance and personal fulfillment over traditional job security and financial incentives. Keywords Orla Canney, OCC Consulting, Gen Z career development, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, career reflection, networking, personal growth, AI in the workplace, corporate transition Takeaways "I want to give this a good go." "It's not just about moving up the corporate ladder; it's about learning." "What gives me hope is the Gen Z, the digitally natives who were born with constant change." "It's more about how you feel, your impact, and your balance." "The no is always guaranteed; what's the best that can happen?" Sound bites ""I want to give this a good go."" ""What gives me hope is the Gen Z, the digitally natives who were born with constant change."" ""The no is always guaranteed; what's the best that can happen?" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Orla Canney and OCC Consulting 01:45 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 06:16 Understanding Gen Z in the Workplace 11:19 The Importance of Career Reflection Workshops 19:02 Challenges and Lessons in Entrepreneurship 26:56 Resources and Personal Growth Strategies Connect with Orla: LinkedinInstagram Resources mentioned: Book: The Let Them Theory, Mel RobbinsShout out to Yvonne Tchrakian Stay connected with Roberta: Follow on Instagram: ⁠@designbyroberta⁠ and ⁠@coreandformdesign⁠Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠: Roberta RechenaSubscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updatesVisit the ⁠Core and Form website⁠Book a Free Discovery Call if you’re interested in collaborating!

    30 min

  4. JAN 8

    Ep 24 - A Not-So-Vanilla Year: My Honest 2025 Review

    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. TakeawaysA “quiet” year doesn’t mean an unimportant yearReflecting helps you see growth you may have forgottenFewer leads doesn’t always mean less meaningful workIt’s okay to build projects slowly when life is fullAwareness and support are essential when navigating mental healthReturning clients are a powerful sign of trustPersonal growth and business growth are deeply connectedSimplifying your business can create more clarity for everyoneVisibility is a choice — and a practiceBoth ups and downs deserve to be acknowledged Sound bites“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.” Chapters00:00 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 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! Keywordsyear in review, business reflection, entrepreneurship, branding, creative business, personal growth, mental health, podcasting, simplification, visibility, small business journey, 2025 review, 2026 intentions

    18 min

  5. 12/11/2025

    Ep 23 - Stop Overcomplicating Your Website

    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

    12 min

  6. 11/27/2025

    Ep 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 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)

    16 min
  7. Ep 21 - How to find graphic design clients? Sharing what worked for me.

    09/16/2025

    Ep 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 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

    12 min
  8. Ep 20 - Healing with Ink: How Aislinn Horgan Is Redefining Recovery

    06/30/2025

    Ep 20 - Healing with Ink: How Aislinn Horgan Is Redefining Recovery

    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: byaislinnstudio@gmail.com 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!

    33 min
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About

Core Brands is a podcast that dives into branding, entrepreneurship, and the journey of building impactful businesses. Hosted by Roberta, a brand strategist and designer, the show features candid conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs who’ve built their brands from the ground up. Roberta also shares solo episodes with insights on brand strategy, personal growth, and business tips. Tune in every two weeks for real stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies to help you build your own brand.

Information

  • Creator
    Roberta Rechena
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Roberta Rechena
  • Show Website
    Core Brands Podcast