In this episode of PR LIKE A BOSS!, I chat with the legendary Emma Gunavardhana, (aka Emma Guns), whose resume is as glittering as a red-carpet gown. From interviewing icons like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Bette Midler to hosting her wildly popular Emma Guns Show, Emma takes us through her beauty industry journey, her evolving views and why she's over "transformational journeys."
Here are the highlights:
Emma’s approach to beauty has always been practical: products must work, full stop. With her early struggles with acne and facial hair, she sought problem-solvers, not just pretty packaging. Later, stints at OK! Magazine and QVC reshaped her career, teaching her to prioritise the consumer over brands and advertisers. Emma champions authenticity, rolls her eyes at overhyped TikTok trends, and dismisses any product claiming to cure anxiety.
She didn’t hold back on industry critiques: Emma is “fatigued by the newness,” questioning whether the constant churn of products is helpful to consumers. But she’s optimistic about beauty’s strides in inclusivity, acknowledging the industry has made bold, overdue changes.
For indie brands, Emma encourages them to stay true to their values. She calls out brands that greenwash or use gimmicks, urging them to back up their claims with real transparency. As for tokenistic attempts at inclusivity, Emma’s verdict: “You’re either inclusive, or you’re not.”
The rapid-fire round added a fun twist:
Clean claims without proof? Banish.
TikTok trend chasing? Banish.
Multi-use products? Boost all the way!
Brands & Experts Mentioned:
The Inkey List (co-founders Colette Laxton & Mark Curry)
QVC (with shoutout to Alison Young)
Emma Guns brought her signature mix of humour and honesty to the episode, leaving listeners with plenty to ponder and probably a few crystals to sage.
You can find Emma on:
Instagram: @emmaguns
Substack: Emma Guns
Podcast: The Emma Guns Show
Website: emmagunavardhana.com
Patz x
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PR SPECIALIST & COACH
PATRIZIA GALEOTA
With over two decades of experience, I’ve established myself as a PR Powerhouse, collaborating with renowned brands and experts within L’Oréal Paris, Kiehl’s, Garnier, and The Body Shop, among others.
My expertise lies in shaping compelling narratives, providing strategic guidance and fostering impactful collaborations on both a national and global scale.
I empower brands and experts in the beauty, wellness and lifestyle space to secure media coverage and communicate their products and expertise effectively.
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