We had the good fortune of connecting with Deanna Radulescu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deanna, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Life is truly lived when it’s accompanied by a dash of risk. I firmly believe that without a bit of daring, one is not fully experiencing the richness that life has to offer. Personally, I have navigated a plethora of risks, from gracing the stage in a bodybuilding competition to free-falling from an airplane, and from establishing a fashion label to now hosting a globally recognized podcast. In each daring venture, I discovered not only growth but also invaluable lessons and wisdom.

Risk-taking is a catalyst for personal development and achievement. Every step into the unknown unveils opportunities for growth and imparts profound lessons. It is through these experiences that I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. Some of the most accomplished individuals in history owe their success to a willingness to embrace risk repeatedly, navigating uncharted territories to reach the pinnacle of their endeavors.

What I love about being a risk-taker is my ability to inspire. Those who dare to challenge the status quo and venture into the unknown become beacons of motivation for others. It is the risk-takers who ignite the spark of ambition in those around them, encouraging them to break free from the confines of (labels) comfort and pursue their dreams relentlessly.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I proudly wear the hat of a podcaster, and not just any podcaster—I’ve carved my space as one of the top podcasters globally. My journey into the realm of podcasting was sparked by a profound message that emerged from a life marked by trauma, loss, and the painstaking process of rebuilding. As a fervent empath, I carry a deep love for people, embracing them unconditionally. Witnessing the divisive impact of the pandemic stirred a profound emotional response within me, as I keenly feel the pain of others.

My podcast, Label Free, was born in 2019, following the closure of my fashion label. Admittedly oblivious to the intricacies of podcasting at the outset, I boldly declared to family and friends, “I don’t know who the f*&k I think I am, but I’m going to start a podcast.” Since its inception, Label Free has organically evolved into a globally recognized platform, connecting me with thousands of individuals worldwide.

Reflecting on my life, a simple truth emerged—the significance of the labels we affix on ourselves and others. I’ve witnessed the chaos that ensues when individuals fail to conform to these labels. The underlying theme of Label Free persists amidst the diverse array of guests—people hunger for acceptance and love.

Authenticity is my currency, and it has been the linchpin of my success. Connecting genuinely with each guest has been my modus operandi, fostering a unique rapport. The journey has been far from easy, and the uphill battle against the stigma surrounding podcasting, particularly in the realm of personal stories and messages, persists. Yet, I persevere because I recognize that my message transcends me—it’s a universal call for acceptance and love.

There are days when the weight of being an artist in a domain where the value of supporting a “podcast” is underestimated becomes burdensome. However, the resilience of my message propels me forward. I’m committed to challenging the stigma and ensuring that a message as vital as mine continues to resonate and thrive.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Fortunate to count a handful of cherished best friends in my life, I envision crafting a day that radiates joy and camaraderie. To ensure fairness, I’d commence our celebration with a delightful brunch, setting the tone for the day’s festivities. Following this, a pampering spa session awaits at AIRE Ancient Baths, offering a serene interlude before our adventure in downtown Chicago unfolds.

Our journey would lead us to renowned museums like MCM or Wonder, providing an interactive and enriching experience. After immersing ourselves in art and culture, a visit to the vibrant neighborhoods of Gold Coast or River North beckons. There, we’d relish a leisurely lunch and sip on refreshing cocktails, savoring the city’s culinary delights.

An extra special touch awaits as we drop by to see my husband, a dedicated Chicago Police Officer, perhaps sharing a moment and gaining insight into his day. Inviting additional friends to join us later in the evening, our gathering would transition to a networking and connection-building phase. We might opt for a lively sip & paint venue or simply revel in the dynamic atmosphere of the city, fostering connections and creating memories in the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s nightlife.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In the intricate tapestry of life, singling out a solitary individual as the key figure in our journey seems limiting. Life’s path is adorned with numerous souls who, if we are attuned, play pivotal roles in propelling us to our present destinations. My gratitude extends to various figures, each contributing their unique threads to the fabric of my existence.

My grandmother, a guiding force in my love for fashion and the profound understanding of laughter’s transformative power, imparted invaluable lessons. Meanwhile, my unyielding mother stood as an unwavering beacon of positivity, steadfast through the storms of life. Her timeless advice to “live your legend” and “fly like an eagle” resonates in my mind, a mantra for a lifetime.

Even my tumultuous relationship with my estranged father, a challenging chapter laden with trauma, ultimately revealed the resilience required to emerge stronger on the other side. A debt of gratitude extends to my sensei, who instilled in me the virtues of discipline and self-control, shaping my character in profound ways.

The departure of my late husband, leaving me with nothing after nearly two decades, brought forth the revelation of life’s true beauty and the empowerment that comes from living on one’s own terms. In the grand orchestration of existence, I acknowledge God’s role, guiding me through myriad experiences, fostering growth, and sculpting me into the person I am today.

Thus, the mosaic of my journey is not dominated by a singular figure but rather an ensemble cast of mentors, family, adversaries, and divine influence—all integral contributors to my life’s narrative.

Website: www.labelfreepodcast.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/labelfreepodcast

Linkedin: linkedin.com/labelfreepodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/labelpodcast

Facebook: facebook.com/labelfreepodcast

Youtube: youtube.com/labelfreepodcast

Image Credits
Bordeaux Studio-Annette Kerstin Patko Evanston, IL

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