Welcome back to *Seasoned Professional.* I’m your host, Hannah Octavia.

Today, I’m honored to share the story of an inspiring woman. Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, she pursued her dream of becoming a makeup artist. Her dedication and passion for beauty have shaped an extraordinary journey, allowing her to work with renowned celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Jeremy Irons, Sandra Oh, and Jodie Whittaker.

Her work on The Borgias earned her an Emmy nomination, though she humbly believes it wasn’t solely her accomplishment. Reflecting on her life in her late 20s and early 30s, she shares how she often allowed herself to "fall forward" into new situations, fueled by a mix of confidence and pure terror.

Over the past 30 years as a makeup artist, she has cultivated skills that transcend the typical perception of her profession. She emphasizes the importance of team management, creating schedules, effective communication, and leading teams—skills that go far beyond the stereotype of makeup artists as people who can merely draw a straight eyeliner.

Throughout our conversation, she shared invaluable lessons from her time in this high-stakes industry. She spoke candidly about working with A-list celebrities, stressing the importance of not putting them on a pedestal—a mindset she believes undermines your own skills and worth.

She also opened up about the insecurities she experienced after having her son, and the difficult decision to step away from the industry after COVID-19 to focus on her family and a new passion: empowering women entering middle age.

Her energy and wisdom were an absolute joy to experience. Please welcome Tahira Herold.

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m honored to share the story of an inspiring woman. Growing up in a small hamlet, she spent her childhood immersed in movement—dancing, gymnastics, and exploring the forest behind her home, where her parents still live today.

As a teenager, she faced the pressures of the 90s “heroin chic” aesthetic, and a desire for control during a period of family challenges added to the pressure of needing to look a certain way. Her mother battled depression but found a spark of hope reignited after attending a Zumba class—a transformative moment that inspired my guest to follow her own journey of fitness and creativity.

Merging her passions for fitness and graphic design, she carved a path that led to roles at fitness magazines, Boots, and eventually the prestigious position of Creative Director. Yet, despite her hard work, whispers of “she must have slept with the boss” echoed, a reflection of the biases successful women often endure. Determined to help others, she launched The Box, an award-winning gym. She overcame the pandemic’s challenges, became sole owner, and expanded the studio with a personal training program.

A true example of resilience and determination, it is my absolute pleasure to introduce the remarkable Lucy Pinto.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of body image and mental health disorders please take care while listening.

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I’m excited to share the very first episode I ever recorded. Launching this podcast has been an incredible journey, and it’s truly special to revisit the conversation that started it all. Beginning Seasoned Professional with this remarkable guest was an absolute privilege, and I look forward to having him back in the future to delve even deeper into his inspiring story.

Born and raised just outside Brighton, he grew up surrounded by nature and animals. From a young age, he was drawn to the world of law, fascinated by the courtroom’s theatrics and the deep, lasting relationships forged with clients.

With a singular focus on his goals, he embarked on a career that has been nothing short of extraordinary. This steadfast dedication has led him to spend his entire professional journey at a single law firm, a rare achievement in today’s fast-paced world. He steadily rose through the ranks to become an equity partner while maintaining his values and demonstrating the quiet power of patience, persistence, and dedication.

His story is a refreshing reminder of the rewards that come from committing to a path and seeing it through, especially in a society so often focused on constant change. It was a joy to speak with him, and I know you’ll find his perspective as inspiring as I did. Please welcome my guest, Nicholas Taylor.

If you'd like to support Seasoned Professional on all our platforms!

Spotify

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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

Click to apply!

See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.