Beyond your comfort zone with Shelby Van Zwol

In this episode of Process the Podcast, host Arielle Thomas reflects on the transformative and challenging past few months, discussing her journey in the creative agency space, the importance of consistency, and the support from her audience. She shares insights on navigating corporate challenges, managing a growing team, and the lessons learned from hiring mistakes. Arielle emphasises the need for recalibration in her goals and priorities, particularly with her brand Remy, while also celebrating new networking opportunities and the commitment to growth and consistency in her work.Follow along as we build in real time, in front of you all via Process the Podcast on Instagram. Find your host, Arielle on Instagram here.Subscribe to Process and don't miss an episode! See you next Tuesday x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Process, we sit down with Shelby Van Zwol, the founder of Chain Social, who went from running a one-woman agency out of her bedroom to leading one of Australia’s most sought-after social media companies — with 22 team members and global clients under her belt.Shelby opens up about the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship: what it really takes to scale an agency, the emotional work of letting go to grow, and why having a clear process is her secret weapon.We talk about:The systems she put in place to scale smoothlyWhy paid ads and email still matter more than you thinkBuilding a standout team culture in a sea of samenessThe mental shifts required to become a founder, not just a freelancerWhy top-of-funnel content is non-negotiable in 2025And how she’s thinking about equity, PR, and long-term brand buildingWhether you're a creative, founder, or side-hustler scaling fast — Shelby’s story is full of golden lessons (and honest moments) that will inspire you to push past your current ceiling.This episode is sponsored by the Chain Academy. Learn more about their offering and level up this year in time for the peak sales season! We're working with the Chain Academy to level up for Remy Wellness and loving every minute! Learn more about Chain Social here: https://chainsocial.com.au/Follow Shelby Van Zwol on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/shelbyvanzwol/?hl=enFollow Process the Podcast on Instagram here: instagram.com/processthepodcastFollow your host Arielle Thomas on Instagram here: instagram.com/arielle.thomasSubscribe to Process! We're still a baby podcast and we need all the love we can get.See you next Tuesday x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A limited-edition winter series from Process.A new co-host. A new format.One creative icon at a time.Welcome to Part Two of From Scratch: Hedi Slimane.This conversation delves into the life and career of Hedi Slimane, a pivotal figure in the fashion industry known for his transformative impact on menswear and luxury fashion. Hosts Arielle Thomas and Elena Cameron discuss his early influences, rise to fame, and the controversies surrounding his work, particularly regarding body image and creative control. A wild card entry, Arielle invites Daanen Nootenboom to the chat to give us a 360 perspective. Some say Hedi's a one trick pony and furious that he removed heritage from the luxury brands. Daanen's perspective comes from his 20 years in design as his own principle at Applied Arts. The hosts explore his artistic vision, particularly his use of black and white photography, and the commercial success he achieved at Dior and Celine. The conversation also touches on his legal battles and the lasting legacy he is likely to leave in the fashion world.Slimane's work has had a significant cultural impact, influencing celebrity fashion. He faced criticism for promoting unhealthy body standards in fashion. His transition to Celine marked a new chapter in his career, focusing on creative control. Slimane's black and white photography reflects his artistic vision and style. He achieved remarkable commercial success, tripling sales at Saint Laurent. As the girls end their From Scratch exploration of Hedi's work, love him or hate him, he certainly knows how to keep shareholders happy. Find more about this episode on Instagram via @processthepodcastSubscribe to Process! We're a baby podcast and we need all the love that we can get! See you next Tuesday x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A limited-edition winter series from Process.A new co-host. A new format.One creative icon at a time.Welcome to Part One of From Scratch: Hedi Slimane. This conversation delves into the life and career of Hedi Slimane, a pivotal figure in the fashion industry known for his transformative impact on menswear and luxury fashion. Hosts Arielle Thomas and Elena Cameron discuss his early influences, rise to fame, and the controversies surrounding his work, particularly regarding body image and creative control.The hosts explore his artistic vision, particularly his use of black and white photography, and the commercial success he achieved at Dior and Celine. The conversation also touches on his legal battles and the lasting legacy he is likely to leave in the fashion world.Slimane's work has had a significant cultural impact, influencing celebrity fashion. He faced criticism for promoting unhealthy body standards in fashion. His transition to Celine marked a new chapter in his career, focusing on creative control. Slimane's black and white photography reflects his artistic vision and style. He achieved remarkable commercial success, tripling sales at Saint Laurent.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Hedi Slimane02:47 Hedi's Early Life and Influences05:58 Career Beginnings and Rise in Fashion08:56 Revolutionising Menswear at Dior11:53 Cultural Impact and Celebrity Influence14:57 Controversies and Body Image Issues18:02 Transition to Celine and Creative Control21:04 Black and White Photography and Artistic Vision24:08 The Business of Fashion and Commercial Success26:56 Legal Battles and Intellectual Property30:03 Legacy and Future of Hedi SlimaneLearn more at Process the Podcast on instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Process, Arielle sits down with Emma Lewisham, the founder behind the skincare brand known for science-led formulations, circular design and that unmistakable violet hue.Emma shares what it really took to build a global beauty brand from scratch. Not just the wins, but the mindset shifts, the sacrifices, and the moments of doubt along the way. From leaving her corporate career to challenging an entire industry, this is a conversation about staying true to your vision, leading with purpose, and redefining what success actually looks like.This one’s for anyone navigating big pivots, building something with longevity, or questioning the sacrifices it takes to get there.In this episode, we explore:Emma’s shift from executive leadership to building a skincare brand rooted in science and sustainabilityWhy true innovation means pushing the industry to evolve, not just following trendsHow sustainability shapes every decision and process within the businessThe emotional labour and resilience involved in building a brand with integrityThe impact of strategic partnerships, like the one with Mecca, in growing a global beauty brandRethinking success to embrace both personal fulfilment and a lasting legacyEmma shares why a 100-year vision guides her, why integrity is non-negotiable, and how leaning into discomfort drives real growth and change.Find the guest hereWebsite: emmalewisham.comInstagram: @emmalewishamTikTok: @emmalewishamFollow ProcessInstagram: @processthepodcastFollow Arielle: @arielle.thomasTikTok: @processthepodcastSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Sign up to Process' new newsletter over at cinemathom.com, for a better look behind-the-scenes of this episode (aka Emma Lewisham’s AM routine) and SO much more! You’ll go in the draw to WIN a $540 skincare bundle, courtesy of the Emma Lewisham team. *Giveaway runs Wednesday 23rd July to midnight Tuesday 29th July, 2025.This episode is powered by RemyLet your energy match your ambition.Sign up at remywellness.com.au for 10% off your first order.Thanks for listening! We’d love to hear your favourite moment from this episode. Head over to socials and let us know. See you in a fortnight with a new From Scratch icon x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turns out showing up 100 times teaches you a thing or two.In this Petit ep, Arielle reflects on what it’s taken to stick with Process this long: the good, the gritty and the parts no one really talks about. It’s a look behind the scenes of building a podcast and creative practice from scratch.She shares the big lessons that have surfaced along the way: the power of just showing up, what it really takes to back yourself and why creative work often means choosing the uncomfortable option. There’s insight into growing a self-funded show, staying consistent as a creator and making space for a creative life even when it’s messy.There’s also real talk on sponsorships, burnout, loneliness and letting go of the pressure to be perfect. If you're navigating creative burnout, trying to build something slowly or figuring it out as you go, this one's for you.No neat little bow. Just an honest look at the process behind Process.In this episode:What 100 episodes actually teaches youThe tension between discipline and sacrificeNavigating loneliness, perfectionism and creative burnoutThe slow path to sponsorship and sustainabilityLetting go of control, asking for help and going all inArielle shares the lessons and pivots that shaped her, and the mindset shifts that made all the difference.Follow ProcessInstagram: @processthepodcastFollow Arielle: @ariellethomasTikTok: @processthepodcastSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts!Sign up to the Cinema Thom newsletter at cinemathom.comThis episode is powered by RemyLet your energy match your ambition.Sign up at remywellness.com.au for 10% off your first order.Thanks for being part of the ride! See you next Tuesday... we’re back with a new icon for the From Scratch series. x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A limited-edition winter series from Process.A new co-host. A new format.One creative icon at a time.In this conversation, we return to the world of Sofia Coppola.We talk about the softness and restraint in her work, and how it holds space for themes like identity, isolation, beauty, and control. The idea of beautiful cages becomes a way to understand the emotional and visual language she returns to again and again.We look at what it means to tell personal stories inside a commercial system, and how the female experience is often shaped through subtlety and limitation. There’s reflection on childhood, aesthetics, remakes, and the kind of artistry that doesn’t try to be loud to be clear.This episode isn’t about conclusions. It’s about sitting with the work, and what it brings up — as creatives, as women, and as people trying to make honest things.Chapters00:00 Exploring Sofia Coppola's Influence03:02 The Concept of Beautiful Cages05:52 Creative Women and Societal Expectations08:29 Cages of Identity and Relationships11:27 Sofia's Evolving Artistic Journey14:39 The Search for Authenticity in Art17:31 World Building and Storytelling Techniques20:24 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Creativity23:11 Navigating the Challenges of Remakes26:16 The Role of Female Experience in Storytelling29:13 The Complexity of Toxic Relationships32:04 The Artistic Process and Learning from Others35:12 The Influence of Childhood on Artistic Expression38:05 The Intersection of Commerce and Creativity41:17 Reflections on Personal and Professional Growth44:06 The Balance of Vulnerability and Artistry47:05 The Future of Sofia Coppola's Work50:08 The Legacy of Sofia Coppola's Aesthetic52:52 Conclusion and Future ConversationsLearn more at @processthepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing From ScratchA limited-edition winter series from Process.A new co-host. A new format.One creative icon at a time.We’re diving deeper than the mood boards, exploring world-class creatives whose work is actively shaping commercial creativity today.Come in from the cold and settle into thoughtful conversation and fresh perspective — with Arielle Thomas of Process the Podcast and Elena Cameron of Adorer House.Learn more at @processthepodcast  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Process, we sit down with Liv Koennecke, the creative force behind Maison Essentiele — a cult sleepwear label turned ready-to-wear brand that’s redefining luxury on its own terms.Liv shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey, from launching with a singular vision for elevated sleepwear to confidently pivoting into fashion-forward, everyday pieces. We explore what it really means to be a small brand in a saturated industry — and why that’s often a superpower.This episode is a deep dive into:The power of authenticity and creative intuitionNavigating imposter syndrome and decision fatigue as a founderBuilding a strong internal culture and growing a values-driven teamProduct drops, storytelling, and staying visible in a fast-moving digital worldThe nuances of the Australian fashion scene and where Maison Essentiele fits inLiv speaks candidly about the pressures of being a founder, the importance of community, and the strategy behind collaborations, gifting, and customer connection.Whether you're building a brand, working in fashion, or navigating your own pivot — this episode is full of grounded insights and honest reflections.Find Maison Essentiele online here. Find Maison Essentiele on Instagram here. Find Maison Essentiele on Tik Tok here. Find Liv on Instagram here. Follow Liv's journey on Tik Tok here. Follow us at Process the Podcast on Instagram here. Subscribe to Process the Podcast and make sure you don't miss our next announcements! This episode is sponsored by Remy Wellness. Leave brain fog behind and never miss a workout again! See you next Tuesday x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Arielle sits down with Geneva Vanderzeil, the DIY and craft entrepreneur. They explore Gen's journey as a DIY enthusiast who transitioned from a career in town planning to becoming a prominent figure in the DIY and crafting community. They discuss the roots of this passion, the therapeutic benefits of crafting, and the evolution of craft content. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability, creativity, and the joy of repurposing materials, while also addressing the challenges and rewards of balancing organic and sponsored content in the DIY space. The girls explore the importance of embracing creativity, navigating trends in the crafting world, and building a supportive team. They discuss the significance of building a community and engaging with the audience authentically. The journey of writing a book is shared, highlighting the challenges and rewards of the creative process. The speakers emphasise the need for authenticity in content creation and the importance of embracing creativity while overcoming judgment from others. They also touch on the empowerment that comes from DIY and crafting, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions without fear of criticism.Join us over on socials to watch our craft journey unfold this week on the Process Instagram here. Check our Geneva's socials! Instagram here and her Tik Tok here. Visit Geneva's DIY School here.If you loved this episode, leave us a review and subscribe to the channel! We have so much in store for Process in the coming months,See you next Tuesday! x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.