You have to learn how to rest, not give up.
Simonetta Lein Tweet
Simonetta Lein’s life story is a captivating narrative of personal growth, empowerment, and global influence. With an Instagram following of over 18 million dedicated fans, she’s not only a public figure but a true social media phenomenon.
Her journey began in Italy, where she was born and raised, surrounded by the rich cultural tapestry of her homeland. However, Simonetta’s story took a remarkable turn when she decided to take a leap of faith and move to the United States.
It was a bold decision, one that would shape the course of her life in extraordinary ways. As we delve deeper into her life, accomplishments, and the wisdom she generously shares, you’ll discover that Simonetta’s impact reaches far beyond the pages of this introduction.
Stay with us, and let her remarkable journey ignite the spark of possibility within you, for Simonetta Lein is not just a public figure; she’s a force of positive change, a living testament to the power of belief, and an embodiment of the extraordinary that lies within us all.
Check out more interviews with entrepreneurs here.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO GET FEATURED?
All interviews are 100% FREE OF CHARGE
Table of Contents
Can you start by telling us about your background and journey as a public figure and influencer?
Simonetta Lein: I was born and raised in Italy, and my journey took a significant turn when my then-boyfriend and I started traveling to the US every year. Eight years ago, we moved to Philly, and I became an American citizen.
This significant life transition was truly transformative, leaving me with no option but to strive for success. Starting your life from scratch in a new country can be daunting and pressurefilled, but it’s also incredibly motivating. I had already established myself as a published author and a working actress.
I also contributed to Vanity Fair as their influencer, appearing on TV and radio. Through relentless dedication, with a small yet fiercely loyal team, I’ve built the foundation for my TV Show and the remarkable career you now see on @simonettalein. I’m the same girl who looks back in awe at what I’ve achieved so far, fully aware that there’s still so much more to accomplish.

What inspired you to become a prominent voice in the fashion and influencer industry?
Simonetta Lein: Once more, I had to make it happen. And indeed, it did happen.
Can you share your journey into the world of business and en- trepreneurship? What motivated you to start your own ventures?
Simonetta Lein: Working for Forbes and Entrepreneur magazine provided me with invaluable insights into the business world. Conducting interviews with titans such as Mark Cuban, Marcus Lemonis, Tilman Fertitta (The Billion Dollar Buyer), Grant Cardone, Barbara Corcoran, and others further solidified my entrepreneurial mindset centered around the idea of freedom. I couldn’t imagine not working for myself. Occasionally, when exhaustion sets in, I envy a 9 to 5 job, but I always remind myself that the ability to control my own schedule is fundamental. Entrepreneurship is a mix of fear and liberation, and while it’s not suitable for everyone, it’s the only path I’d choose.Your philanthropic work has garnered significant attention. Could you share some of the causes you are most passionate about and the impact you’ve made through your advocacy?
Simonetta Lein: Through The Wishwall Foundation, which I established in 2015, I am continuously working to fulfill meaningful wishes across the globe.
This includes supporting literacy programs for hundreds of children, completely transforming hospitals and libraries, empowering women with valuable skills like sewing and providing them with sewing machines to start their businesses, and offering assistance to the daughters of women who have escaped from domestic violence, among other initiatives.
Additionally, I am currently engaged in environmental projects, such as tree planting and providing fertilizers to ensure villages can sustain themselves. It has truly been an incredible journey.
As a successful entrepreneur, what are some of the challenges you faced while building your brand, and how did you overcome them?
Simonetta Lein: Every day presents its unique set of challenges and blessings. Making mistakes and having to redo things, from aesthetic choices to selecting the wrong people, is all part of the journey. You live, and you learn.
But doubting myself is one thing I wouldn’t redo if given the chance. Many will tell you that what you do isn’t worth it. While I pay close attention to criticism and find it valuable to stay grounded in reality, sometimes entrepreneurs’ minds are simply too visionary for others to fully comprehend.
So, while it’s important to listen, it doesn’t mean you should doubt yourself or feel wrong. You are growing and learning from your mistakes, but never undermine your own abilities. Becoming an entrepreneur is akin to a profound psychotherapy session where you confront your deepest fears, and it’s a matter of either overcoming them or facing failure. Even in the face of failure, you must summon the courage to learn and rise again.

Personal branding is essential in the influencer industry. How did you develop your personal brand, and what tips do you have for others looking to build their brand effectively?
Simonetta Lein: Public relations (PR) and investing in your personal brand are essential. I wish more people would understand that everything you spend to improve and promote your brand in the news and magazines is a wise investment. With time and perseverance, it transforms into conveying your message to people who may not have known you otherwise.
It’s a continuous endeavor, and many mistakenly believe that one article is sufficient. It requires ongoing effort, as you must consistently engage with algorithms that regard yesterday’s link as outdated. Don’t panic; plan strategically. That’s why I established Ausonia Partners.
I aimed to provide guaranteed PR opportunities for individuals without the risk of spending money on media that might never materialize. The feeling of rejection doesn’t benefit anyone, and there are plenty of media outlets looking for new stories. It’s a matter of having a good PR company to seek them out and make it happen.
The process encompasses PR, social media management, personal branding, photoshoots, videos, and more. In today’s diverse media landscape, seeking expert guidance is crucial unless you want to spend valuable years navigating it alone. My advice: invest in the right people.
How important is innovation in your business approach, and how do you foster a culture of creativity and forward- thinking among your team?
Simonetta Lein: Innovation is a constant commitment for us. I’m always thinking about what comes next while remaining fo- cused on making things happen. Recently, my lovely production manager, Kate Massih, who began working with me at the age of 19 and is now 25, shared something deeply meaningful.
She expressed that she sees me not only as a successful businesswoman but also as a great boss, friend, wife, daughter, and simply a great person. Her words meant a lot to me. When people stay with you over the years, they get to see your flaws and weaknesses, yet they still choose to stay and admire your journey.
I’ve always shown her that no matter what happens, Simo will persevere. I might get discouraged for an hour, but then I bounce back. I never lose sight of family and the important things in life. I constantly strive to better myself and take risks in styles, my show, and being a woman in a world dominated by men. I believe that women must be strong and resilient.
We are changing the world by inspiring men and leaving a significant mark in business, driven by our inherent qualities as mothers and nurturers. It’s a strength every woman should harness to propel her dreams forward.
As an author and speaker, could you share some of the key messages you aim to convey through your writing and public engagements?
Simonetta Lein:
- Everything is possible as long as you truly believe in it.
- You have to learn how to rest, not give up.
- If it were easy, everyone would do it.
- Kindness is the new currency.
- Women should help and empower other women.
- No one gives you anything for free.
- Conquer your fears; it is the ultimate life goal.
- Never dare to give up.
- Dare to be different.
- Don’t put yourself down.
- Be ready to stand up for yourself!
- When no one defends you, you must create an energetic bubble around yourself so that nothing and no one can touch you.
- Everything is energy.
- Energy is the most valuable currency we possess. Do not waste it on people or situations that do not feed your soul.
- Always look at yourself in the mirror and ensure you are proud of what you see. If you’re not, work towards that. You don’t need to convince anyone but yourself. Once you’ve achieved that, you can accomplish anything.
As a host of “The Simonetta Lein Show” which covers various topics and industries, how do you ensure that each episode resonates with your diverse audience? It is not just entertainment but also a platform for empowerment. How do you empower and uplift your viewers through your show’s content?
Simonetta Lein: It is a constant work in progress, and something magical happens with every single interview. We make sure to select questions that truly matter and topics that I believe will have a meaningful impact on people’s lives when they listen.
I call them legacy interviews because I aim for each one to be a piece of art that people can revisit multiple times and still learn from and feel happy about.
I always consider future generations, and I want my celebrity guests to teach them that their favorite idols are actually people like them who have struggled immensely to achieve what we all admire and love.
What advice would you give to aspiring influencers and entrepreneurs who want to make a positive impact through their work?
Simonetta Lein: Stay humble and dedicate yourself to hard work. If you’re not willing to put in the effort, you can’t expect others to want to collaborate or associate with you. You have to be the first to put in the work and be the first to invest in your growth and development.Looking back on your journey, is there anything you wish you had known or done differently when you started your career?
Simonetta Lein: I wish I hadn’t let fear of making mistakes hold me back, and I also wish I had recognized the inner strength I truly possessed. It’s the kind of strength you discover when you hit rock bottom. While I can offer guidance on how to respond, you’ll still have to go through it, and it will not be pretty.
Whenever you find yourself in such a situation, feel free to reach out to me or revisit my all-time favorite movie, “Rocky,” as a tribute to my city, Philadelphia.
That film imparts more life lessons than one can imagine. The key lesson is always getting back up, but ultimately, you must nurture your inner strength. When you’re down, you must decide to get back into the fight, even if you feel broken.
As an influencer and public figure, how do you leverage your platform to create positive social change and raise awareness about important issues?
Simonetta Lein: I have been doing it since day one with my concrete actions through my nonprofit, inspiring generations to be that change. Additionally, through my TV show and fashion endeavors, I emphasize that authentic conversations and real relationships should always come first. I frequently encourage putting down the phone and embracing life, as it is what truly inspires success in your business.
From a business perspective, what are some trends or developments that you foresee shaping the industry in the coming years?
Simonetta Lein: We find ourselves in a battle with AI, and it could have been avoided had people focused more on their inner journey rather than external factors. AI has presented a seemingly simpler world that now dominates us and seeks to replace humans.
Those who still naively believe it will only assist us are in for a rude awakening. For the record, I love technology. But I don’t endorse technology becoming the central focus of everything. It is quite challenging at this point to predict the outcome, as it depends on how this conflict unfolds.
Currently, humans are reacting to AI, and this issue is exemplified on a macro level by the ongoing SAG strike involving actors. I see two potential scenarios: AI either completely takes over or is conquered by us. I stand firmly on the side of humanity and hope those reading this share the same perspective.
If we are not united in defending this fundamental right of being human, I’m uncertain about what we have left to fight for. Always fight to protect children and your fellow humans as the first thing.
Our first and foremost duty is to protect our children and fellow humans. Life and the pursuit of happiness must be safeguarded at any cost.

What are your future goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally?
Simonetta Lein: I maintain my focus, taking one step at a time. Right now, my priority is season 6 of The Simonetta Lein Show, with the ambition to continue creating new seasons while also taking a moment to recognize how far I’ve come! I’ve learned to celebrate my achievements more.
In the past, I used to move from one goal to another quickly. However, with more experience, I’ve come to appreciate that when I accomplish something significant, I should take the time to feel a sense of pride throughout my entire being for the woman I’m becoming. I share this to emphasize that important goals keep you motivated, but my father used to tell me, “Do one thing at a time.” Furthermore, I want life to surprise me positively.
Always leave room for adventure in your life and business. You can plan, but life often takes unexpected turns!

What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a public figure and advocate for positive change?
Simonetta Lein: I hope that by now, if I were to leave a legacy, it would be that of a person who left everything behind to start anew, showing other women and men that it’s possible to turn your dreams into reality.
I aspire for this legacy to continue inspiring future generations to improve themselves and make their aspirations a reality. I didn’t have anything handed to me; I went out and earned it or created it. Also, I have endeavored to inspire through my years of public service and charity work.
This has enriched my heart, and I hope to serve as a living ex- ample that we can indeed improve someone else’s life. I cherish life, and if I have one lesson to impart, it’s the determination to make things happen for your own joy and fulfillment. Prioritize your happiness on a deep level, as nothing superficial can provide genuine happiness.
Choose your happiness and protect it at all costs. Work on your mind as if it is your worst enemy. Use your business to become a better person every day. Work towards building a family and a support system; you’ll need it more than you can ever imagine.
Jerome Knyszewski, VIP Contributor to ValiantCEO and the host of this interview would like to thank Simonetta Lein for taking the time to do this interview and share her knowledge and experience with our readers.
Disclaimer: The ValiantCEO Community welcomes voices from many spheres on our open platform. We publish pieces as written by outside contributors with a wide range of opinions, which don’t necessarily reflect our own. Community stories are not commissioned by our editorial team and must meet our guidelines prior to being published.
Read Special Edition Articles
- 10 Traits of Highly Successful Entrepreneurs
- Unlocking the Secrets of Smart Goal Setting Leads to Success
- Maximizing the Power of Networking: The Key to Growing Your Business
- Conquering the Top 5 Most Common Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs
- Discovering the 3 Essential Steps to Building a Strong, Effective Team as a Startup Founder
- The 7 Key Roles of Market Research in Startup Success
- 5 Ways to Unleash the Benefits of Mentorship for Entrepreneurs
- Mastering Financial Management: The Key to Success for Small Business Owners
- The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Markets
- Resilience and Persistence: The Two Essential Ingredients for a Successful Business
Rockstar Profile
Fame Redefined: The Empowering Essence Of Simonetta Lein

From Dreamer to Achiever in the Entertainment Arena
Simonetta’s journey to success was no cakewalk; it was defined by relentless perseverance and hard work. Beginning as a published author and working actress, she was already making her mark in the industry.
Contributions to Vanity Fair solidified her status as a rising star. With a small but dedicated team, she laid the foundation for “The Simonetta Lein Show,” amassing millions of views per episode, one of the most-watched short-form celebrity talk shows globally.
Despite her immense achievements, she re- mains down-to-earth, humbled by the journey she’s undertaken. Social media served as the catalyst for her TV show, a destiny she embraced fully. Her journey from Italy to establishing herself in the U.S., showcases fierce independence.
She’s modeled for renowned designers and graced the pages of esteemed publications, earning accolades like the 2022 WIBA Media Personality of the Year at the Cannes Film Festival.
Pioneering Authentic Entertainment and Amplifying Voices
The Simonetta Lein Show has hosted iconic figures from the entertainment world, including actors, musicians, TV stars, and comedians, such as Steve-O, Jerry Springer, Tom Arnold, and the late Bob Saget. Season five, aptly titled “The Billionaire Edition,” featured luminaries such as Barbara Corcoran, Marcus Lemonis, Tilman Fertitta, Jeanie Buss, and Kathy Ireland.
The Simonetta Lein Show aired on SLTV, is a testa- ment to authenticity. No question is edited out, and no response is withheld; it’s a raw and uncut narrative from the global fashion and entertainment scenes. Simonetta’s devotion to unvarnished truth resonates, earning her a staggering following of over 18 million followers on Instagram, with the show’s views crossing the monumental 1 billion mark.
This show isn’t just entertainment; it’s an experience. Unscripted, uplifting, and native to Instagram, it transcends the confines of traditional TV or YouTube shows. While celebrities do make appearances, it’s not a platform for mere self-promotion.
The show champions conversations that matter, providing a voice to groundbreaking entrepreneurs, social projects, and celebrities alike. It’s an inclusive platform, free for all, transcending borders and cultures.

Championing Philanthropy, Finding Inspiration, and Spreading Hope
In today’s digital age, personal branding is paramount, and Simonetta has mastered it as an art form. She understands the importance of investing in PR, personal branding, and securing a place in the media limelight, leading her to establish Ausonia Partners.
This venture ensures individuals access PR opportunities, aligning perfectly with Simonetta’s practical advice: invest in the right people and strategize wisely.
Simonetta embodies a spirit of innovation, constantly looking ahead while staying firmly grounded in the present. Within her team, she nurtures a culture of creativity and forward-thinking, recognizing that innovation isn’t a luxury but a fundamental requirement in our everevolving world.
Her entrepreneurial flair shines through her diverse career. Simonetta isn’t confined to a single role; she’s a dynamic entrepreneur who thrives on inno- vation and exploration. Her journey through media and business has molded her into a genuine visionary who values the freedom to chart her own path
Mastering the Art of Personal Branding, Innovation, and Entrepreneurial Grit
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Simonetta is a true giver at heart. The establishment of The Wishwall Foundation in 2015 attests to her unwavering dedication to turning dreams into reality. Her philanthropic endeavors range from supporting children’s literacy programs to empowering women with valuable skills and aiding those impacted by domestic challenges.
Simonetta Lein represents more than just fashion; she embodies the spirit of making a tangible, positive difference in people’s lives When asked about the wellspring of her inspiration for empowering countless individuals, Simonetta shares her secret.
She starts with introspection, contemplating the messages she aims to convey. Seeking guidance from her trusted team and reflecting on the legacy she hopes to create, she finds the wellspring of her unflagging persistence.
Simonetta believes that together, we can be the change the world craves, one heartfelt wish at a time. In an era marked by uncertainty and challenges, her foremost vision for the future is a world filled with peace, both externally and within. She advocates for a shift towards positive narratives, emphasizing the importance of progress and rebuilding.

A True Powerhouse of Empowerment and Positivity
Among the most remarkable aspects of Simonetta’s journey is her resolve to inspire women to embrace both their bodies and their inner selves.
Through daily doses of inspiration, she ignites the fires of empowerment, sharing candid stories of her own challenges and her commitment to hard work, offering guidance to countless admirers. She acknowledges the tremendous pressure that public figures endure, often expected to conform to certain appearance standards.
However, she believes in using her platform to set a positive example, skillfully balancing the demands of fame while cherishing moments of re- spite that she’s learned to appreciate.
Simonetta also extends valuable advice to those grappling with body image issues, emphasizing the courage it takes to seek professional help. She champions individual uniqueness as the essence of genuine beauty and shares the wisdom that each person’s journey is entirely one-of-a-kind.
Nurturing the Change-Maker in Us All
To sum it all up, Simonetta Lein isn’t just a name that resonates in the entertainment world; she embodies the incredible potential of the human spirit.
Her jour- ney serves as a source of motivation, encouraging us to dream boundlessly, pursue our aspirations relentlessly, and harness our influence to forge a better world.
Amidst the glittering array of stars, Simonetta’s brilliance is con- stant reminder that, armed with passion, authenticity, and resolute determination, we each have the capacity to become architects of change in our own unique way.