Our Vulnerability is Our Strength: What Lies Beneath — with Sarra Fleur Abou-El-Haj and Nicole Fasolino

Season Two
Written By Amelia Hruby

It’s time for women to shine and have a voice! In this episode, Lucy is joined by Sarra Fleur Abou-El-Haj and Nicole Fasolino of The What Lies Beneath Project.

They discuss Sarra and Nicole’s careers in the fashion industry and how their work led them to launch a new photography project celebrating the essence of women at their strongest, most authentic and beautiful selves.

They also pull back the curtain on their decades-long friendship and how they support each other personally and professionally in good and bad times.

Tune in for inspiration to let your vulnerability — and your mistakes — guide you forward. Then subscribe to our monthly newsletter to connect with other women seeking freedom and friendship.

Jump into the conversation:

[07:00] Nicole & Sarra’s career journeys

[12:00] Female friendship & the power of community

[15:00] The origins of The What Lies Beneath Project

[22:45] Stories of the women photographed

[29:15] Expectations vs expectancy

[34:00] Working with women you trust & how to find them

[38:30] Generational differences between women

[45:20] Pearls of wisdom from Nicole & Sarra

Stay connected:

More about our guests:

The What Lies Beneath Project is a collective initiative dedicated to celebrating the raw vulnerability and authenticity of women. Through photography and storytelling, we capture the essence of each participant, revealing the inner beauty that transcends the surface. Our mission is to highlight diverse narratives, fostering connection and understanding among people and honoring the unique journeys that shape us all.

Sarra Fleur Abou-El-Haj, a Santa Monica-born Creative Director, Film Director and Photographer, discovered her passion for capturing light during a formative trip to Paris at 14. Since relocating to New York City in 2002, she has collaborated with prestigious clients including Chanel, Cover Girl, Intermix, Victoria's Secret and Calvin Klein. Her work graces the pages of Vogue, W, Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire and Elle.

Nicole Fasolino is a freelance stylist, writer and creative strategist based in New York City. Nicole started her career working at magazines styling celebrity, fashion and beauty shoots. Over the years, she has contributed to various publications, including Harper’s Bazaar, Teen Vogue, ELLE, L’Officiel, Seventeen, and Marie Claire. She has styled numerous celebrities for high-profile red carpet events, including the Oscars and Grammys. Nicole is also the mother of two magical children, Luca and India.

Mentioned in the episode:

Amelia Hruby
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In Her Own Right: Cultivating Self-Trust & Making our Dreams Tangible — with Chelsea Madeline