Sasha’s remarkable story shows that confidence is not something you’re born with, but something you build.
From a shy child with a vivid imagination, she discovered her voice through performing arts and never looked back. Today, as an award-winning entrepreneur, mentor, and author, she empowers others to break free from their comfort zones and unlock their true potential.
Sasha, can you share a bit about your journey and what inspired you to become a mentor, author, and entrepreneur?
I have always been creatively minded but was too shy to pursue any of my creative passions when I was a child. Instead, I was more of an introvert; this could be in part due to being raised in a single-parent household and having no other siblings.
I used to have the biggest imagination and could entertain myself for hours, but I would clam up when around people. This all changed when I left school and enrolled on a Performing Arts course in college. It was during this course that I stepped out of the box and challenged myself. I found my voice and developed my confidence. It was because of my performing arts background that I was able to run my own award-winning digital magazine.
I was able to network and meet an abundance of people, and the confidence I developed over time helped me to help others. I worked for a mental health charity for 8 years, and it was here I realised the impact I could have on others. I was helping and guiding those with low self-esteem to find their voice and be counted.
It made sense that I then began my training as a life coach and created Women Who Slay with my mother. The book was a natural next step, as I am an English graduate with a passion for writing. Blogging and coaching have been my side hustles for many years, which is why I co-wrote Slaybabe with a Side Hustle to inspire other aspiring female entrepreneurs to pursue their side hustles and embark on a new journey.
What inspired you to start your blog, SashaShantel.com, and how has it evolved over the years?
I started my first blog I Am Sasha Shantel – Words, Thoughts and Reflections in 2007. This was a personal development blog where I focused on writing motivational and inspiring content.
Empowering others has always been at the core of what I stand for, which is what compelled me to launch In-spire LS Magazine in 2010. Not only did I want a creative outlet to write content that I was fully in control of, but I also wanted to create a space where up-and-coming talents could feel appreciated and be seen.
I am really proud of what I achieved through that site. SashaShantel.com has changed so much since I started fashion blogging in 2015.
It was predominantly focused on fashion but has since become a modern woman’s lifestyle blog, sharing insights into my thoughts, as well as my takes on fashion, beauty, food, wellness, and more.
I have such big plans for this site this year, and I really want to update it more regularly and grow it into the lifestyle site I know it can become.
You are recognised as one of the Top 100 UK Lifestyle Blogs—what do you think sets your content apart?
It was a humbling experience to have my blog recognised by Feedspot, as I’ve been blogging for a long time. The fact that I haven’t been as consistent as I would have liked didn’t affect my blog being noticed for my quality imagery and detailed and honest reviews.
I believe what sets my blog apart is the authenticity and relatability I bring to my content. I’m not just focused on what’s trending; I focus on what resonates with me and my audience.
The way I mix personal experiences with valuable insights creates a connection that goes beyond just the surface level of the topics I cover.
I also take time to ensure that my content adds real value, whether it’s offering advice, sharing inspiration, or presenting honest product reviews. I think that’s what has contributed to my blog being recognised in such a competitive space.
Along with your blog, you co-run Women Who Slay. What is the mission behind this brand, and how did it come to life?
Promoting motivational and inspirational messages has always been important to me. After my work in the charity sector helping individuals with mental health issues, I realised I had a passion for developing others.
During the lockdown, I launched my life coaching services through Women Who Slay. Women Who Slay has evolved beyond coaching and is now also a female personal development brand where we create tools and resources to help women overcome their limited mindset and win at life.
We achieve this through our podcast, digital ebooks, and blog posts. I will be reintroducing life coaching this year, but I am currently taking time out to continue my training to become a master coach.
You also co-authored Slaybabe with a Side Hustle with your mother. What motivated you to write this book, and what impact do you hope it has on women?
Writing Slaybabe with a Side Hustle was a natural progression in my journey as an entrepreneur and coach. My mother and I wanted to share our combined knowledge of building successful side hustles and empower women to take control of their financial futures.
The book was motivated by the desire to show women that they don’t have to wait for the “perfect moment” or “perfect circumstances” to start their business or follow their dreams. We want to inspire women to take that first step and pursue their passions, all while maintaining balance in their personal and professional lives.
The impact we hope to have is to help women feel empowered, confident, and equipped with the tools they need to succeed. We want them to know that their side hustle can be just as fulfilling and profitable as any traditional career path.
As a mentor working with young people, what are some of the biggest challenges you see them facing today, and how do you help them overcome these obstacles?
The biggest challenges I recognise are that many young people feel overwhelmed by the pace of life. They’re not given enough grounding to help them prepare for life outside of school and struggle both mentally and emotionally to deal with the pressures of balancing their personal lives with their educational responsibilities.
I work as a mentor to support the young people I work with to develop their confidence and self-esteem, as well as support them in becoming more authentic versions of themselves.
Additionally, I focus on helping them navigate their emotions, learn effective time management, and build resilience in the face of setbacks. I also encourage them to embrace their individuality and support them in finding their voice, so they can make empowered decisions about their future.
You’ve had an exciting career in media, from hosting The VIP Rooms to being an award-winning magazine editor. What have been some of your most memorable experiences in this space?
Hosting The VIP Room was such an awesome experience as it happened by accident. I had no plans to go into radio, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences I have had.
I interviewed some incredible talents, and my show became the second most listened-to show on the station. As a magazine editor, my life opened up in a major way. I got the opportunity to interview some of the finest stars within the entertainment and business industries.
I got to dine in the best restaurants, review some of the most prestigious music industry events, and review spas across the UK and Ireland. The magazine taught me how to want more and to be more, and I am forever grateful to it for widening my perspective and enabling me to aim higher and achieve greater things.
You’ve also had experience in the fashion and beauty industry, from modelling to winning beauty pageant titles. How has that shaped your journey as a multi-passionate entrepreneur?
My experience in the fashion and beauty industry has been integral to my journey as a multi-passionate entrepreneur. Modelling and competing in beauty pageants taught me discipline, self-presentation, and how to build confidence in front of others.
It also gave me insight into the importance of self-image, both internally and externally, which is something I carry into my work as a mentor and entrepreneur. I’ve learned that personal branding is crucial, and I’ve applied that mindset to all my ventures, from my blog to my coaching services.
The fashion and beauty space has also allowed me to connect with a diverse range of people and helped me build the relationships and networks that have been pivotal in expanding my entrepreneurial opportunities.
You’re currently relaunching your podcast It’s Time to Thrive. What can listeners expect from this new phase, and what topics will you focus on?
It’s Time to Thrive is an extension of our social media, where we share inspirational messages, and the podcast is evolving to focus more on actionable insights and real-life stories from amazing women who have overcome challenges and achieved success.
We will delve into topics such as personal development, entrepreneurship, mental health, and empowerment. Each episode will bring practical advice and motivation to help listeners elevate their lives, embrace their true selves, and thrive in their personal and professional journeys. I’m really excited to share more with my audience and dive deeper into these important conversations.
Female empowerment is at the heart of your work. What advice would you give to women struggling with self-doubt and confidence?
The first thing I would say is that self-doubt is completely normal—even the most successful and confident women experience it at times. However, the key is not to let it define you or hold you back from stepping into your power. Confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build through action, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal growth. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that confidence comes from doing.
You don’t have to feel ready—you just have to take the first step. Whether it’s starting that side hustle, applying for that job, or speaking up in a room full of people, taking action, no matter how small, is what builds self-trust. I also encourage women to challenge their inner critic.
Too often, we allow negative self-talk to dictate our decisions. Instead, ask yourself: “Would I say this to my best friend?” If not, then you shouldn’t say it to yourself. Replace self-doubt with self-compassion and remind yourself of everything you have already accomplished.
Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial too. Confidence grows in environments that nurture and uplift you. If your current circle doesn’t inspire or encourage you, find one that does. Finally, own your journey. Stop comparing yourself to others and embrace your unique path. Your strengths, experiences, and even your struggles make you who you are. Celebrate that!
Balancing multiple roles—blogger, author, mentor, and entrepreneur—can be demanding. How do you manage your time and stay motivated?
I manage my time by pacing myself and ensuring that I don’t spread myself too thinly. I don’t believe in doing too much at once, as that can lead to burnout and hinder my ability to achieve my goals.
I prioritise my tasks based on what’s most important and time-sensitive, allowing me to focus my energy where it’s needed most. I also set aside specific time blocks for different roles, which helps me stay organised and productive. Motivation comes from my passion for what I do and the impact I hope to have on others.
I remind myself of my “why” frequently, keeping my goals in mind and celebrating my progress, no matter how small. I believe in the power of rest and self-care as well, as it fuels my creativity and resilience. Taking breaks and allowing myself time to recharge is essential to maintaining my motivation and ensuring I can bring my best self to each role I fulfill.
Finally, what’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects or goals you’re currently working on?
I’m currently focused on training to develop my coaching skills further and undertaking additional courses to enhance the services I offer. I believe that continuous learning is key to growth, both personally and professionally, and I’m excited to bring new insights into my coaching practice.
I also have big plans to grow and expand SashaShantel.com, taking my blogging to the next level. I want to create even more engaging content that resonates with my audience and explores a wider range of topics. Additionally, I’m looking to expand my food content creation on my Instagram page, The Foodie Files, where I can share my passion for cooking and explore new culinary adventures.
Lastly, I’m working on writing a follow-up to our first book, Slaybabe with a Side Hustle. I’m eager to continue sharing empowering messages and practical advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs. Each of these projects is a step toward fulfilling my mission of inspiring and uplifting others, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me!
