Wild at Heart: A Journey Through Creativity, Motherhood & Self-Belief

Simone Pansino, founder of We The Stars, reflects on motherhood, meaning, and creating without compromise.

Tell us about your family. How Many Kids?

Myself, my husband, our one-year-old son, and a few chickens.

What was the biggest adjustment when you became a mum?

Being needed all the time — the relentlessness of it all.

What surprised you most about motherhood?

How much I’ve loved it.

I had so much fear around becoming a mum — that I’d become “boring” or lose my sense of self.

But it’s been the opposite. We’re having the best time, and I’m absolutely loving it.

What’s been the best part of motherhood for you?

The endless expansion of love in my body — and the freedom to just do life our way

What genuinely helps you stay afloat day to day?

Exercise, my art, and my family.

 

How do you make space for career, motherhood, relationships, and yourself?

With a strong village and a deeply supportive husband, I’m able to keep space for the things that light me up.

What’s the hardest part of motherhood to admit out loud?

The constant emotional and physical demand. It’s beautiful — but it’s intense.

If you could tell yourself one thing before becoming a mum, what would it be?

That it’s not as scary, boring, or limiting as I once feared. It’s a beautiful gift.

What does your morning routine really look like?

We make breakfast, then head to the gym together.

How do you wind down at night?

Honestly, I don’t wind down much. It’s dinner, then bed by 8:30. I co-sleep, so going to bed when Memphis does helps me feel energised for the next day.

Who’s in your village?

My husband, my parents, my in-laws, and my beautiful, loyal friends who always show up and listen.

Five things you can’t leave home without?

I don’t even carry a bag most days — usually just a water bottle. Sometimes I don’t even bring nappies… whoops.

Where do you find fashion that feels like you?

I source pieces from around the world and have items custom-made by local artisans.

Your favourite place to escape?

Burning Man.

Why do you love it?

It’s like the best playground in the world for adults (big kids).

It’s a place where everyone feels free and fully expressed—a place without judgment, full of beauty and insane sunrises and sunsets.

It’s a place where deep human connection is everywhere you look. But most importantly, it’s the most fun place I’ve ever been. I first went in 2019, and it changed the trajectory of my life.

Where’s next on your wish list?

Cuba for the culture, and Switzerland in winter.

What does a healthy life look like for you right now?

Working with a coach, dancing, exercising, quality family time, and eating beautiful organic food.

How do you stay active?

Movement has been part of my life since childhood. Growing up on a farm, it was ingrained in me — I just do it.

What is one non-negotiable for your wellbeing?

Journalling when I’m feeling off.

What does “balance” mean to you?

Sitting in my garden, drinking chai, watching birds — I don’t do it enough, but that’s my ideal.

A truth that took time to admit?

I have a deep fear of rejection.

When do you feel most like yourself?

When I’m creating art, dancing, and dressed in something bold and outrageous.

A mistake you’re grateful for?

Some of my early relationships — so many lessons learned.

What do you judge yourself most for?

My academic ability. I went to a school that didn’t value creativity. It took years to overcome that.

Something that surprises people about you?

I grew up on a farm. I ride dirt bikes, wakeboard, barefoot ski, and snowboard. I’m a walking contradiction.

Who are you becoming?

Honestly? I’m her now. I’m in my power, in my most magnetic era, creating what I love.

A small joy right now?

My son’s laughter, handmade vessels, chai, water, and beautiful art.

Visit, Buy, Do 

Visit: The Summit in Miami.

Buy:A huge emerald for a custom heirloom ring.

Do: Network with change-makers and dream big.

 

What inspired you to start We The Stars?

I began in law, but it drained me. After starting a kids brand that even featured in Vogue, I created We The Stars — evolving into luxury eyewear and now handmade jewellery inspired by vintage glamour.

What do you love most about running your own brand?

Learning about myself and fully embracing my creativity.

What’s been the hardest part of the journey so far?

Balancing my ego and higher self — and not letting setbacks define me.

What’s been your biggest personal lesson through building your business?

Understanding my own insecurities and learning how to move through them.

Have there been moments when you wanted to walk away — and what kept you going?

Many times. But quitting would mean giving up on myself. Coaching and creating anyway keeps me going.

What’s exciting you most about what’s coming next?

More one-off heirloom jewellery, beautiful collaborations, and so much creative expansion.

To find out more about We The Stars, click here.