The third episode of The Power Podcast with Sacha Power welcomes the lovely Leanne Maskell, former model, law graduate, activist and the author of The Model Manifesto - an A-Z anti-exploitation manual for the fashion industry.

Leanne started modelling when she was just 13 years old and found herself in Vogue almost immediately. A start that most models could only dream of. But as the years went on, she was to experience the darker side of modelling, comparing it to how an addict would feel about drugs. Craving the highs but hitting rock bottom during the lows - suffering with mental health issues, debt and exploitation. 

After leaving modelling behind her to pursue a career in law at 26, she wrote a book, the Model Manifesto exposing all aspects of being a model - from the good to the bad - in an attempt to try to disrupt and transform the fashion industry for the better.

As someone who has had no experience of modelling, it was truly eye-opening to speak to Leanne about the brutal reality of the industry which left her depressed. We chat about the 'ideal body', mental health issues, sexual and financial exploitation - and the moment she realised she had a voice and that she was no longer afraid to use it.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Thanks so much for listening - and if you like what you hear, please rate, review and subscribe.

SP X