Stories From Behind the Mask - The parts we edit out
Step behind the polished surfaces and curated feeds. This is where we hear the stories we usually keep to ourselves — the doubts, the triumphs, the moments that shaped us. Each episode, I sit down with bold entrepreneurs, creators, and change-makers to uncover the parts they’ve edited out, the truths they rarely share, and the lessons that transformed them.
If you want to see people as they really are — messy, human, and extraordinary — this is your front-row seat.
Stories From Behind the Mask - The parts we edit out
Episode 3 - Sheila Smith - Founder of Behomed
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Sheila has spent much of her life behind a mask of polish and control, showing up as confident, competent, and in command - even when inside she wrestled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Fear of judgment and the need to appear flawless often weighed on her, but she refused to let it stop her from stepping into her purpose.
A pivotal moment came in 2002, when she travelled solo through Burma (Myanmar) under military rule. Meeting Mr Book, a former teacher and underground bookseller, opened her eyes to the true meaning of freedom and the importance of using her voice. That journey shaped her profoundly, showing her the courage it takes to speak out in the face of oppression and inspiring her lifelong commitment to empowering others.
Sheila now understands that visibility isn’t about perfection or applause - it’s about showing up fully, sharing doubts, fears, and values, and using her voice to create meaningful change. Her story is a testament to the power of starting messy, leading from integrity, and speaking up for those who cannot. Sheila demonstrates that courage, not perfection, is the true mark of a leader.
www.behome.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-smith-property-investor/?skipRedirect=true
https://www.facebook.com/sheilamsmithuk
www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/