Mary Portas: the queen of the high street’s inspiring journey from homeless orphan to a London townhouse that’s all hers

Most of us know Mary Portas as a swashbuckling TV presenter with a flame-red bob, but her career away from the screen has been no less remarkable. She did the window displays for Topshop during its heyday and was the creative director of Harvey Nichols when it was immortalised on Absolutely Fabulous. Nowadays, however, she runs her consultancy, Portas, which helps brands create purpose and beauty in everything they do. As this episode reveals, her life story is incredibly rich and filled with both trauma and triumph. This episode was recorded in person at the Portas offices, London.For more: Head over to our website for more images of the places discussedVisit Portas Sign up to The Modern House newsletter for weekly interiors inspiration Check out Matt Gibberd’s latest book, A Modern Way To Live This episode is sponsored by Vitsoe.Executive Producer: Kate Taylor of Feast CollectiveProducer: Hannah PhillipsMusic: FatherGraphic Design: Tom Young Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What does home reveal about who we are? Almost everything, it turns out. Join The Modern House co-founder and author Matt Gibberd as he talks to cultural and creative leaders about the most influential space in our lives: home. In each episode, we ask guests to talk about a home of their past; their current living space; and where they would like to end up – revealing what home means to some of our most inspiring public figures. Be prepared for tears, laughter and everything in between. "The Best Podcasts To Listen To Now" – Vogue Homing In is produced by The Modern House, with music by Father.The Modern House is an estate agency that helps people live in more thoughtful and beautiful ways. If you have a modern home to sell, get in touch to find out how we can maximise its value.To hear more from us:Sign up to our newsletter for weekly interior inspirationSubscribe to our YouTube channel Follow us on InstagramTo get in touch, email us at podcast@themodernhouse.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.