ABOUT
A woman for women.
Hey! I’m Arsiak Vartenian, Founder & Host of Smart is the New Sexy, an uplifting talk show and online platform. We aim to highlight the power of dreaming big through storytelling, connection, community and heart.
I am frequently asked why I do the work that I do...
Why do I believe that storytelling is the key to realizing big dreams?
My answer is simple: It’s worked for me.
I grew up in Arkansas, where I never truly fit in. My dreams often felt “too big” for my surroundings. With extended roots in Chicago, I knew that like the skyscrapers, the sky was the limit -- as soon as I could spread my wings, I moved north and signed up for college in the Windy City.
College came to a close just shy of completing my senior year when Luxury Real Estate became the apple of my eye. I took a leap of faith and dove head first into my raw excitement. I was ready to learn and face all of the challenges the career could provide. I just wasn’t prepared for opposition from those I hoped would be my mentors. Yet again, I was faced with remarks that my dreams were beyond what I could produce. Even to this day, I’ve felt the eye roll of doubt around Smart is the New Sexy.
But guess what? I’m still here
Even through years of self-doubt and the doubt of others, a complicated divorce from my first husband, momentous financial failures and the death of close family members, I’ve chosen to push through and prove them all wrong (even myself).
My divorce clouded my identity for a while and I needed to rediscover who I was. I put real estate on hold and returned to school to study Fine Arts & TV Production with a minor in journalism. Flash forward and you’ll see the direct correlation to Smart is the New Sexy. It just took me a decade to really find my confidence and be in front of the camera.
This confidence was shaped from active self-discovery but also listening and connecting with others' stories of challenge and triumph. Their stories enabled me to take steps to truly change course and subsequently experience real love and build upon a successful career.
Today, at the helm of Smart is the New Sexy, I feel more empowered now than I ever have before.
Empowered Women Empower Women.
My single goal in producing Smart is the Next Sexy is to empower others to do the same.
We believe EVERY PERSON should have the chance to feel seen and be heard.
On the show we seek out inspiration through others experiences, lessons and unique challenges. The common thread among each guest is they live with purpose —and their purpose drives their passion. They’re turning their dreams into reality every day.
If you truly want something, you are capable. It’s possible another person’s story could propel you as they did for me.
If you’d like to familiarize yourself with me or Smart is The New Sexy, please feel free to browse my website and social media accounts where my work has been published on:
facebook | instagram | youtube
Smart Is The New Sexy has also been recognized by local Chicago and national broadcasts. You can watch these features on WGN, Fox 32, CBS Chicago, Ivanhoe Broadcasting, and more by visiting our Press & Media.
When I’m not spending time on Smart Is The New Sexy or building upon my investments, you can find me with family, discovering new restaurants, working out and traveling the world. I live in Chicago’s West Bucktown neighborhood with my wonderful husband, Amir and our two teacup Yorkies, Coco and Peanut.
Simply not enough? Follow me on Instagram for daily inspiration.
