Episode 46 is one to miss this week - we talk to Author and Journalist Poorna Bell who has recently published her new book, Stronger.An award-winning journalist, charismatic motivational speaker, published author and influencer, Poorna Bell works extensively across several areas including women's journalism, women in business, fitness and strength, body image, wellness, mental health and is an advocate for diversity and inclusion. The former UK Executive Editor and Global Lifestyle Head for HuffPost, Poorna now works as a freelance journalist and editor for titles including The Guardian, Red magazine, Stylist, Grazia, Women's Health and the Daily Telegraph. A popular public speaker and event facilitator, Poorna also received Stylist magazine's Rising Star Award at their inaugural Remarkable Women Awards 2019.

 

We speak to Poorna today about her new book, her journey as a journalist, women in colour and the importance of role models.

 

Poorna’s debut book, Chase the Rainbow, was published in 2017, to high acclaim. The personal memoir is the story of one man’s journey with mental health told by the woman who loved him. Poorna's third book, Stronger, came out last week. The part manifesto, part memoir is inspired by Poorna's journey to find physical strength following her husband's passing, after which she became a competitive powerlifter and the book aims the help lay a roadmap for how women can tap into their own physical and mental strength. Poorna also hosts See My Strong, a personal blog which champions stories of womxn and fitness traversing all races, ages, body shapes and sizes, aiming to inspire and empower beyond the mainstream.

 

 

Using her social media platforms for good, Poorna was named on the Marie Claire Verified power list 2019, which champions women who use Instagram to amplify positive messages, inspire others and open difficult conversations with honesty and candour. An avid weightlifter, Poorna credits the sport for helping her throughout her grief, providing her with not only physical, but mental strength, body confidence and resilience too. Her work in the fitness space and position within the diversity and female empowerment conversation has led to a number of high profile collaborations with brands including NatWest, Bupa, Lululemon, Sweaty Betty and Sport England's This Girl Can campaign.

 

A judge for The Mind Media Awards, Poorna is also the chair of the print category for judging the Own Media Awards. She has also sat on the judging panels for the prestigious The British Book Awards, Sony World Photography and First Women Awards.

 

Working in every facet of the media, Poorna has regularly been a guest on TV and radio with appearances including BBC 5Live and BBC Radio 4. Additionally, she is also a regular guest on podcasts, including Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place and The Book of Man with Professor Green.