Check out our interview with stunning Spanish model, entrepreneur, fitness enthusiast, certified health coach, and Pilates instructor Tasha Franken.
Tasha has spent years in the modeling industry, appearing on the cover of Vogue and Glamour Magazine and having walked in fashion shows for major brands such as Tom Ford, La Perla & Vivienne Westwood. Today, Tasha is passionate about guiding women towards leading a healthy lifestyle and embarking on their own self-love journey through meditation, fitness, and nutrition.
Tasha recently launched her online Pilates subscription site/app called T— F STUDIO in order to provide women with a unique, dynamic, and feel-good Pilate’s workout that is created for EVERY woman and EVERY body type. Tasha’s workouts and guided meditations can be done anywhere, at any time, with limited to no equipment, and are focused on strengthening both the body and mind.
Follow Tasha @tashafranken
Hi Tasha, please tell us a little about you?
I’m half Norwegian half Dutch and was born & raised in Spain. I’ve been a full time model for over 12 years and am currently based in LA where I recently launched an online Pilates platform, T – F Studio.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Committed, creative & loyal.
Who has made the biggest impact on your life so far, and why?
My parents, who have always supported and been there for me at all times no matter what.
How and when did you start into modeling?
I got scouted on the beach in Tarifa, Spain back in summer 2011. After some research and skype calls with the agency (to make sure it was all legitimate) I flew to London to meet them on my way back to Manchester University where I was studying at the time. I never ended up going back to Manchester and began modeling full time from there.
What is fun and rewarding about modeling? And what is not?
For me the best part about modeling is the experiences you gain while traveling and meeting new people. Some jobs can be really fun and creative while others can be really exhausting with early call times and long hours. You have to be ready to switch plans last minute if you suddenly get booked for a job in another country the next day.
Can you name a few of the brands you have worked with?
Tom Ford, La Perla, Urban Outfitters, L’Oreal, Adidas.
What did you learn from your biggest failure?
It’s not the end of the world and mistakes happen – but always over prepare.
The most important thing when you are shooting is?
Being on time, professional, and in a good mood. Always have clean hair, nails and a nude seamless thong.
What’s your advice for the newer models and influencers?
Trust your gut and instincts. Make sure you are surrounded by people you trust and who want the best for you.
Now tell us about your Wellness & Fitness App T-F Studio and why did you decided to create it?
T – F Studio is an online Fitness platform that I created during the pandemic after struggling to find an online workout for myself to do at home. The workouts are designed to work for everyone, anywhere and anytime using minimal space, time and equipment at an affordable price.
What is different from this app to others in the market?
I developed T – F Studio after trying every method, fitness class and trainer around the world and really struggled to find something that actually made me feel good. There’s an overwhelming amount of misinformation when it comes to fitness, especially for women. I really wanted to create a style of movement that feels good, strengthens both mind and body to create mental and physical results – and without any sort of negative pressure or stress. T – F Studio is a safe and comfortable space to move and feel your best.
Why did you decide to be an entrepreneur?
I had been modeling for 12 years and was looking to transition into something new for a couple of years. I tried a number of different jobs, but nothing clicked until I started teaching Pilates. I never wanted to be an instructor, but knew I always wanted to create a brand of my own and connect with my audience and friends in a way that felt impactful and positive. So, when this clicked, it really clicked.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
I know there’s so many I still need to read but so far, I’ve liked – How to win friends and influence people, The 7 habits of highly effective people, and The 4 hour workweek.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Enjoy being young!! You’re exactly where you need to be and everything comes in time.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Everything happens for a reason and you can do anything you set your mind to if you work hard and trust yourself enough to let go of fear.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
So many!! My list is never ending, I always want to keep doing more.
What’s next for Tasha Franken in 2022?
More in person pop ups, new T – F Studio products and a couple of secret projects.
Please describe a typical day for you. What is your daily routine like?
I wish I had my routine down but it’s all over the place lately. Typically, I hydrate with lemon water and greens every morning, then caffeinate, workout/go for a walk, meditate and journal. The rest of my day involves working on my laptop and shooting workout videos for T – F Studio. In the evenings I love cooking and watching an episode of something.
Now talking about Instagram, can you share some tips for keeping your account interesting?
I’m no expert but my biggest advice for Instagram is finding your niche, being true to yourself and being consistent. Try and use all the options – in-feed, stories, reels, lives etc.
You are followed by so many people. How do you feel about that pressure of always doing the right thing, and encourage people to follow their dreams?
To be honest I don’t feel the pressure of always doing the right thing because we all mess up sometimes. I just try to be myself and share my own experiences and tips to help others feel their best.
I bet you get millions of it, but what are the best and worst Instagram DM pickup lines you received so far?
I don’t know if I’ve ever received a good DM pickup line… But the worst ones are the long, weird poems.
What is the most challenging thing you deal with about consistently staying in top shape?
For me the biggest challenge of staying in top shape is the mental aspect. I used to feel so much pressure and guilt obsessing over staying in shape… But when I worked on shifting my mindset and found movement that worked for my body that pressure completely went away. As a woman it’s so normal to fluctuate throughout the month, so now that I understand and appreciate my body, I don’t stress about it anymore.
What is your own definition of happiness?
For me happiness is realizing that I am in control of my own life. Feeling at peace with myself through the good and the bad.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Where do I begin, this is a daily activity for me…But my current go to is essence by WizKid, Justin Bieber & Tems
Favorite form of cardio?
Jump rope
Name one your strengths?
Pilates
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Jane Fonda! Jane Fonda has always been an icon for me. Not just because of her fitness background but because of how much she does as a political and environmental activist.
Do you support any charity?
Feeding America, NEDA, Model alliance, Slow Factory, Komera
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Doing absolutely nothing
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media has its pros and cons. It’s an incredible way to make money, launch a business and create exposure. But at the same time, it can negatively impact someone’s confidence and mental health. For example, I’m glad that I grew up without it but now it’s vital for growing my business.
Where can we find you?
IG @tashafranken
TikTok @tashafranken
Tashafranken.com
Quote: Through the clouds are clear skies.
Song: Foolish, Ashanti
Movie: The Proposal
Travel Destination: South Africa
Food: Salmon
Sports Team: Netherland’s euro and world cup.
