Shannon Phillips is a shining example of resilience and self-discovery. As a mother, wife, and leader in the fashion industry, she has mastered the art of balancing multiple roles while staying true to her passions. Her journey is a testament to the power of embracing change, nurturing self-growth, and finding the courage to prioritize mental health. In this interview, Shannon shares how motherhood ignited her reinvention, how she overcomes challenges with grace, and how she empowers others to do the same. Her story is an inspiration for women everywhere seeking to live authentically and pursue their dreams.
How did becoming a mother influence your journey of reinventing yourself and pursuing your passions?
Becoming a mother was a pivotal moment for me. When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, it was like a light switch flipped. I realized that I had to be my own person with clear intentions, not just for myself but for the little one I was bringing into the world. It became essential for me to live my dreams so that my children could see what it means to pursue their own. I have to lead by example because everything I do matters, especially when tiny eyes are watching my every move.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while balancing motherhood with your career ambitions?
Balancing motherhood with my career ambitions has been a constant challenge, especially when it comes to finding the time for everything and maintaining that balance. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is the power of saying no—turning down opportunities that don’t align with my role as a mother or my business goals. It often feels like I’m juggling multiple balls, and if I lose focus for even a moment, I risk dropping one and jeopardizing the whole mission. Balance is something I’m still working on every day, but I feel more grounded now than I did in previous years. Another challenge has been learning to separate “work Shannon” from “mom and wife Shannon.” I had to come to terms with the fact that I’m great in each role and that I can put on different hats when I need to. There’s this misconception that being a wife and mother somehow limits your ability to be available or present in your career, but that’s simply not true. I’ve had to let others know that just because I’m nurturing my family doesn’t mean I can’t nurture my passions as well. I can—and do—manage it all, and that’s something I’m proud of. It’s about recognizing that I don’t have to choose one role over the other; I can excel in all areas of my life.
Can you describe the moment you decided to prioritize your mental health and how that decision impacted your life?
The moment I knew I had to prioritize my mental health came after I experienced postpartum depression. I felt like I wasn’t enough, even though I knew deep down that those feelings were tied to the incredible experience of bringing new life into the world. It was hard to shake that feeling of being subpar. To combat those feelings, I started doing things I used to love again and discovered new passions. It was almost like I had to remind myself of my own greatness. It was terrifying being in that unknown space, but I learned to embrace it and grow into my new body and life. Recognizing the need to focus on my health and wellness became the key to my transformation.
What steps did you take to refocus and rediscover your passion during your journey of self-reinvention?
I took several steps to refocus and rediscover my passions During my journey of self reinvention. Dance has always been my sanctuary. I’ve been dancing since I was 12, and it’s the place I go to find myself. Movement allows me to release so much emotion and stress—it’s my comfort zone. But along with dance, I also turned to therapy. Talking through my issues with someone helped me put things into perspective. It made me feel less alone, less anxious, and gave me the tools I needed to manage my stress. The pivotal moment came when I decided to take that first step toward change. It was terrifying, but I trusted in my capabilities and took life by the wheel. That one step set off a chain reaction, leading me to rediscover my passion and reshape my life in a powerful way.
How did you find the strength to take that first step toward transforming your life, despite the challenges?
Finding strength to take the first step toward transforming my life despite the challenges was tough but rooted in one thing: support. I found strength by leaning into my support system—my husband, my mother, my mother-in-law, and my best friends. They were the pillars that held me up when I wasn’t sure I could stand on my own. They checked in on me, softly pushed me toward my goals, and wrapped me in love when I needed it most. Their unwavering support meant everything to me. Looking back, I realize I wouldn’t have found the strength to take that first step without them. They reminded me that I could do it, even when my mind was filled with doubt.
What role does your "why" play in driving your motivation and guiding your decisions?
My "why" is the heartbeat of everything I do. It’s the driving force that keeps me moving forward and guides every decision I make. If something doesn’t align with my "why," then it’s not for me. My "why" keeps me grounded, focused, and intentional in all aspects of my life. It’s the reason I strive, the reason I push through challenges, and the reason I continue to grow and evolve.
Can you share how you handle fear and uncertainty when pursuing your dreams?
I handle fear and uncertainty in a unique way. I rely heavily on affirmations to keep my mindset strong. Every day, as soon as I wake up, I start my morning routine with affirmations. I even have an app that sends them to me throughout the day, reinforcing positivity and focus. I also make sure to talk my fears out. If I’m well-prepared for whatever situation I’m facing, I can mentally combat any doubts. Fear is natural, but I’ve learned to let those thoughts come and go without letting them steal my joy or shake what I know to be true. I ground myself in the facts and the truth, and I choose to live through that instead of letting fear and uncertainty control me.
How has your experience as a mother and wife influenced your approach to your work in the fashion industry?
Being a mother and wife has certainly influenced my approach to my work in the fashion industry. AsBeing a mother has given me a nurturing perspective that I extend to everyone I mentor. I feel like a mother to those I guide, which helps me understand that we’re all in a constant state of growth and learning. This experience has also sharpened my ability to have tough conversations—I’ve become clear and direct in my communication, yet gentle in my approach. Motherhood has taught me the importance of balancing honesty with compassion, and that’s something I bring into my work every day. I’m real with myself about expectations and boundaries, and I ensure that I’m being just as real with the people I work with.
What advice would you give to women who feel stuck in their current situation and are unsure how to move forward?
The advice I would give to women who feel stuck in their current situation and are unsure how to move forward is simple: just do it. Map out a plan, figure out your "why," and then show up bravely as the person you want to be. If you have a clear route, nothing can stop you but you. When hurdles come, jump over them. If you get stuck, lean on your support system and the belief you have in yourself and your goals. The key is to keep moving forward, no matter what. Trust in your vision and take action, even when it’s scary. That’s how you turn your dreams into reality.
How do you maintain a balance between your family life and your professional responsibilities?
I maintain balance by having a well-defined schedule that clearly separates family responsibilities from work obligations, while also carving out time for myself and my friends. I’ve learned to say no when something doesn’t align with my priorities, and I understand that the world won’t fall apart if I need to take a pause. Some months, my focus has to shift more towards family, and other times, work might take precedence. What’s key is knowing that I am enough, and I can do all things without overwhelming myself to meet anyone else’s standards. My pace is perfect for me, and it doesn’t need to match anyone else’s. I also avoid comparing myself to others and what their lives look like. My husband and I regularly check in with each other to ensure our household is strong, because if things are off at home, everything else—my passions and work life—will be off as well.
What has been the most rewarding part of your work as a model director, choreographer, and mentor?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing the transformation I help bring about in people. Witnessing how different they are when they leave me, in the best way possible, is incredibly fulfilling. The happiness I’m able to add to people’s lives is invaluable, and the number of people I get to help is truly amazing. It makes me feel like such an asset to the world. I let my light shine so that I can help eliminate some of the darkness in the world. It’s a blessing to be a positive influence and to know that my work is making a difference.
Can you share more about the projects you're currently working on, such as Arizona Fashion Week and your workshops?
Right now, my Runway 101 workshop is completely sold out, which is a great feeling! In my workshops, I focus on giving models the skills they need to succeed. Runway 101 is all about mastering the art of walking the runway with confidence and presence. We dive into posture, rhythm, stage presence, and that all-important final moment at the end of the runway. In Posing 101, I guide models through the fundamentals of posing, helping them learn how to express different emotions and attitudes through their body language.
As we near the end of the year, my focus is shifting to Arizona Fashion Week, which runs during the first two weeks of November, with our main runway shows happening on November 15th, 16th, and 17th. Right now, we’re deep into preparing our 150 models for the event. We hold two coaching sessions each month, where we educate our models on hair, makeup, skincare, and fine-tune their runway walks. Designers will be casting soon, and I’m also working on curating my own looks for the two-week showcase.
In addition to all this, I’m mentoring four amazing individuals, each of whom is hosting their own events—ranging from photography workshops and women’s networking events to makeup classes. As their mentor, I’m helping them set up these events to be the best they can be and providing them with my resources to ensure their success.
I’m also planning an end-of-the-year networking event to bring models and business professionals together. It’s going to be a fantastic opportunity for everyone to connect, share ideas, and build relationships that will help propel their careers forward.
How do you empower the models and creatives you work with through your coaching and mentorship?
I empower the models and creatives I work with through a combination of self-discovery, education, appreciation, accountability, and confidence-building.
1. Self-Discovery: I believe that true empowerment begins with understanding who you are at your core. I encourage models and creatives to embark on a journey of self-discovery, helping them to recognize their unique strengths and talents. By understanding their individuality, they can bring something truly authentic to their work, which sets them apart in a competitive industry.
2. Education: Knowledge is power. I provide the tools and education necessary to excel, whether it’s mastering the perfect runway walk, refining posing techniques, or understanding the business side of fashion. I believe in equipping them with the skills they need to navigate the industry confidently and effectively.
3. Appreciation: I make it a point to celebrate their successes, no matter how small. Recognizing their hard work and progress reinforces their value and keeps them motivated. It’s important to me that they feel seen, heard, and appreciated for the unique contributions they bring to the table.
4. Accountability: I hold them accountable for their goals and commitments. This isn’t just about tough love; it’s about helping them realize their potential and understand that with dedication and focus, they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Accountability builds discipline, which is crucial for long-term success.
5. Confidence-Building: Confidence is key in this industry, and I work hard to instill it in everyone I mentor. Whether it’s through positive reinforcement, challenging them to step out of their comfort zones, or providing a safe space for them to fail and learn, I ensure they develop the confidence needed to thrive. When they believe in themselves, they’re unstoppable.
By focusing on these areas, I aim to not only teach the technical skills but also nurture a mindset that empowers them to be resilient, authentic, and successful in their careers.
What strategies do you use to keep your mental health and well-being in check while managing multiple responsibilities?
I prioritize my mental health by sticking to a routine that includes self-care, mindfulness, and setting boundaries. I start my day with affirmations and meditation to center myself, which helps me stay grounded throughout the day. Regular exercise is another key strategy—it’s not just about physical health, but also clearing my mind and reducing stress. I’ve learned to set clear boundaries between work and personal life, which means knowing when to say no and when to step back to recharge. Scheduling time for myself, whether it’s for hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or simply relaxing, is non-negotiable. I also make sure to lean on my support system—talking things out with my husband, friends, or a therapist helps me maintain perspective and keep everything in balance. Ultimately, I remind myself that I don’t have to do it all at once, and that it’s okay to ask for help when I need it.
What advice would you offer to women who are struggling to balance their personal lives with their professional goals?
Balancing personal life with professional goals can be challenging, but it's about setting clear priorities and being intentional with your time. Know that it’s okay to say no and set boundaries when needed. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Also, make sure to celebrate small wins and don't be too hard on yourself. Life is about progress, not perfection. Surround yourself with a supportive network that understands your journey, and always keep your vision in mind.
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