Sheli McCoy (Sabre): Strength, style & becoming a Gladiator

What does strength really look like? In this episode of Who Are You (Wearing?), Alice Cruickshank is joined by Sheli McCoy—better known as Sabre from the BBC's Gladiators. A weightlifting record-holder, gym owner, educator and BAFTA winner, Sheli has built a career around strength, but as this conversation reveals, there's far more to her story than muscles and medals. Using fashion as a starting point, Sheli reflects on the journey to becoming Sabre, how stepping into such an iconic role has changed her life, and why discovering her personal style in her 30s has been just as empowering as breaking records in the gym. The conversation explores what it means to be a true "girls' girl", creating space for other women to succeed, and how confidence isn't about fitting into someone else's idea of who you should be. Sheli also shares why tailoring has transformed the way she shops, dresses and feels in her clothes, proving that great style isn't about following trends: it's about finding what works for you. Warm, funny and refreshingly honest, this episode is about embracing your strengths, supporting others and feeling comfortable in your own skin. In this episode: Becoming Sabre on BBC's Gladiators The journey from elite athlete to television star Finding confidence and personal style in your 30s What it means to be a "girls' girl" Holding space for and empowering other women Winning a BAFTA Why finding a great tailor is a game changer Fashion, confidence and self-expression Follow @sheli_mccoyofficial for more updates from Sheli. About the podcast Who Are You (Wearing?) is the fashion podcast that's not really about clothes. Hosted by Scottish presenter, journalist and producer Alice Cruickshank, the show uses fashion as a lens to explore identity, ambition, creativity and the stories that shape us. Through conversations with figures from entertainment, arts, culture and media, each episode uncovers the experiences behind the public image. Subscribe for new episodes. Follow 'Who Are You (Wearing?)' on Instagram and TikTok for more content.