How Sofia Franklyn Found Her “Sexy and Mysterious” New York It-Girl Style
When she’s recording her cult-favorite podcast Sofia With An F, Sofia Franklyn is all about
embodying the “sweatpants, hair tie, chilling with no makeup on” aesthetic. But, when she
steps out in the city, it’s a different story entirely.
The beloved podcast host found her look and vibe while taking inspiration from the streets of
New York City, which is a long way from her home state of Utah. But Sofia quickly took NYC
street style in full stride, and has adopted her own effortlessly chic, cool-girl taste in fashion.
With NYFW just around the corner, the Sloot Media founder dished on her “very feminine”
style, and how she found a “striking balance” between her viral cozy loungewear energy, and
her NYC it-girl ambiance.
How did you transition from working in finance to being a podcast host?
Sofia: When I was working in my small cubicle in finance, I began to manifest and visualize
having a podcast so I broke up with my boyfriend, made the move to New York, and
really put myself out there and said yes to every opportunity. The podcasting platform
has given me so much confidence, fostered a community, and allowed me to voice
every thought and feeling I have (no matter how “out there”) – because it turns out,
millions of people relate, and we’re all going through it together. That’s been one of
the most rewarding parts of this experience.
How would you say your podcasting style has changed over the years?
When I first started, it would take days to complete a single episode because I was so
critical of myself, but as time went on, I gained more confidence and came into my
own. Now, they don’t take nearly as long to complete and I enjoy the process a lot
more than I used to. I feel calm and totally capable of carrying a conversation in the
most effective way, and don’t feel the need to edit as much as I had in the past.
What does Sofia With An F mean to you?
I started Sofia With An F during one of the lowest points in my life, so it holds a
tremendous amount of significance to me. It took months to actually launch but
through sheer tenacity and a “never give up” attitude, I managed to make it happen.
Overall, Sofia with an F signifies strength, resilience and hope. It’s also a reflection of
me being unapologetically myself, which really caters to what my longtime listeners
have always responded most authentically too. I love being able to connect with them
while being fully candid and true to who I am, and it’s so reassuring that this is what
they resonate with over everything.
What are the types of guests you look for when hosting Sofia With An F? What is the
process like of preparing to interview them?
I’ve been lucky enough to have some very high profile guests on the show, but it’s
never been about landing the biggest celebrity. In fact, a big celebrity following
doesn’t always mean it’s going to be a great episode. Instead, I look for people who
have something interesting to say, and who are willing to say it.
What is your vision for the future of Sloot Media?
Sofia: The vision is always changing! Sloot is my baby, and every decision I make is
thorough, intentional, and purposeful. I know I would like to continue growing the
empire while always staying authentic to myself. I’m just so excited for all the new
ventures, and challenging myself to jump outside of my comfort zone even more.
Where do you look for inspiration?
I really look inwards – I’m very reflective, and while building this brand, the number
one thing for me has been to remain authentic and true to myself. I don’t put on a
front for anyone, and I show up exactly as I am. Authenticity is my biggest thing. I
also of course look around at my personal life, the people I surround myself with, and
the support system I have. I like to take lessons and observations from everything I
do, whether it’s a risky career move, or a brutal break up. I’m celebrating the lows of
working through it, and the highs of how it paid off. I really just speak from the heart.
How would you describe your personal style? Where do you look for fashion inspiration?
Very feminine! I would say a striking balance between sexy and mysterious. I love to
take fashion risks, but not try too hard. I find inspiration on the streets of New York as
well as vintage fashion trends.
How do you balance mental health and life as a public figure, sharing your personal life
for the world?
I have been going to therapy every week for the past 5 years. I meditate first thing
every morning with the “Waking Up with Sam Harris” app. I exercise 2x per week with
my personal trainer, and do more low-intensity workouts on the other days. But even
though I’m very centered internally, I’ve really had to learn to tune out the hate. I find
strength in knowing I’m helping people by sharing personal and taboo experiences
with the world, and that my words are making an impact and helping millions of
people feel less alone, and more connected. That feeling and responsibility is
something that I don’t take lightly, and it continues to inspire me, empower me, and
keep me going.
What is something fans can look forward to seeing from you?
A lot more content, of course! Specifically, a lot of personal content. I really want to
engage with fans in a more intimate way. Maybe some live touring!
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Photography: Hunter Moreno @huntermoreno
Wardrobe Stylist: Kat Gosik @katgosik
Makeup Artist: Ashley J. Simmons @makeupbyashsimmons
Hair Stylist: Sienna Watson @siennawatsonn
Location: Skiptown Playhouse @skiptownplayhouse
FASHION CREDITS
Sports Jacket Look
Jacket: Miaou
Skirt: The Andamane
Sunglasses: Balenciaga
Earrings: Alexis Bittar
Boots: Ilio Smeraldo
White Blazer Look
Blazer: Shop Akira
Bottoms: Vassia Kostara Brand
Boots: Gioissima
Earrings: Sterling Forever
Ring: Mahrukh
