Denise Hewett Is Someone We Really Like
Photo Courtesy of Denise Hewett
by The Candidly Team
Denise Hewett is a prolific public speaker. She’s also a podcast host, and the founder of Scriptd, a database that seamlessly connects scripts and writers with producers and studios.
Her speech on “pattern matching” shows that she was thinking about inclusion in the entertainment industry before it rightfully became mainstream.
We like Denise.
We love her forward-thinking, no-BS take on life and work. So we asked her about boundaries and self-critical thoughts and her relationship with bangs.
And her comment on bras is deeply understandable right now.
The Candidly Questionnaire
1. What’s something you really like about yourself?
I like that I’ve been able to cultivate a deep sense of self.
2. What is your biggest challenge?
Being a futurist.
3. What kitchen or house tool do you use daily that’s changed your life?
My ZeroWater filter.
4. When do you feel most confident?
When I give a keynote speech or when I DJ. There’s no feeling like it!
5. Are essential oils anything?
They can be great breath tools and calming devices.
6. How do you create boundaries?
I learned how to say “NO” at a young age.
I ran a department at a very famous nightclub and nightlife is full of ALL types of characters. It was a great boot camp to understand personally and professionally where my boundaries are.
My gut has become a great indicator of what is right for me.
7. How do you dampen self-critical thoughts when they get too loud?
I have started to ask myself, “would you talk to your friend that way?” There is no way in the world that I would let a friend spiral in self-hate, so I certainly am not going to let myself.
8. Describe the most “you” outfit of all time.
It’s so hard to choose. I love fashion as a form of expression, so I’m constantly innovating and trying new things. I have a big birthday party every year, and I recently did a retrospective. There were some iconic looks in that batch, from feather tops to pearl tiaras to bodycon lace.
9. What meal can you make the hell out of?
Salmon and vegetables. The kitchen and I are new friends.
10. What book has made the biggest impact on your life?
There are so many. This year, the top 2 picks are Untamed by Glennon Doyle, and Emergent Strategy by Adrienne Maree Brown.
11. Apart from family, what woman do you deeply admire?
Gloria Steinem.
12. Which Insta account is creating the greatest content?
Here’s a list of some of the leaders keeping me awake on all things anti-racism, healing, and activism.
13. What quote or phrase has really stayed with you?
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” —Maya Angelou
14. What’s your most effective form of therapy?
Talk therapy has done wonders for my personal and professional development.
15. What’s your approach to mending conflict with people you work with?
I always try and put myself in someone else’s shoes, and I try to recognize that we have no idea what is actually happening in someone’s life. I start with empathy, curiosity, and goodwill. I can usually find common ground or understanding from that lens.
16. How do you feel about cilantro?
Neutral!
17. Describe your actual bedtime routine.
Depends on the day, but I typically wash my face, brush my teeth, and slap on some face oil so I can wake up GLOWY.
18. What’s the best thing you’ve ever read on the internet?
I adore Brain Pickings and their weekly newsletter. There’s always an amazing quote to pull or to be inspired by.
19. What’s your relationship with bangs?
They were a bad choice in college.
What is your single favorite:
Wellness product that *actually* works: Nuface mini facial toning device.
Lip balm: Whatever is in my purse.
Jeans brand: Grlfrnd or Vintage.
Mascara: I prefer eyelash extensions so I can get up and go in the morning.
Robe: The ones from Ojai Valley Inn are HEAVEN.
Sex product: Confidence!
Last-minute gift: A good plant. It’s good for breath, good for grounding, good for beauty.
Bra: It’s a rare occasion when a bra is involved.
Shampoo: Pantene Pro-V Sheer Volume.
Comfortable shoes: Nike Air Force Ones.
Splurge skincare: Amly Sleep Tight Face Balm.
Drugstore skincare: Baby Skin by Maybelline.
Everyday bag: I heavily rotate a statement clutch.
Guilty pleasure TV show: The 90 Day Fiancé universe.
Drink: Wine.
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We have to eat.
