Brooke Summers & Ashley Hollis, Cotton Australia | The Future of Australian Cotton

Today’s episode focuses on an everyday accessible solution that provides the GIFT of health and wellness services to support to those who need it. This is something that can be integrated into any Workplace Wellness Program and shared with our family, friends and communities. Nikki Williams is a repeat entrepreneur, marketer and health and wellness advocate who has recently launched Mentwell; a digital gift card for health and wellness services where the receiver gets to choose how they redeem, at any service provider, Australia-wide. This means GPs, dentists, psychologists, all Allied Health, all alternative and complementary therapies, gyms, yoga and pilates studios, wellness centres, retreats and more. It's evident that Nikki has a unique ability to use her life experiences as a way of fuelling her passion when it comes to her work life. First, music was a coping mechanism to deal with a challenging family situation; so she became a music manager and PR professional. Then she dove head first into hospitality as a job, but realised she wanted to help hospitality owners and operators, so she started a successful digital marketing agency for this sector. Then wellness became important during a particularly difficult time during Covid, so she created a kids yoga mat company and started building Mentwell. Now Nikki is on a mission to make wellness the 3.0 of gifting. We've had material gifts like flowers and chocolates, then we moved to experience based gifting like hot air balloon rides, and now gifting wellness allows one another to potentially change the lives of those around us. Just 22 weeks after launching Mentwell, Nikki and her team have $5.8m in sales revenue secured for 2024 and are raising $1.5m through a Birchal crowdfunding campaign in May, 2024. Nikki dreams of being able to be a philanthropist as a full time job, helping to increase the global health and wellness of our communities, in particular those who are less fortunate or disadvantaged. Nikki has continuously used her intuition and curiosity to create businesses and she's excited to share her journey with Mentwell so far with our community. During our dynamic conversation, we dive into: The significant changes taking place in the health and wellbeing space The power of gifting Mentwell, Australia’s FIRST Health and Wellness Gift Card What choosing to align with Mentwell could mean for your business How embracing discipline rather than motivation can be transformational in each of our lives And so much more. You can connect with Nikki and Mentwell at:   Instagram @mentwellau Linkedin (25) Mentwell _______ If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level, connect with us via any of the following links and enquire about Consulting, Mentorship or Online Learning.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tory Archbold is the Founder and Director of Powerful Steps, a business that empowers leaders to find their ultimate power through a heart-led skill set and the power of strategic storytelling. With over 24 years of experience in brand building, public relations, digital media, and events, Tory has collaborated with some of the world's most influential celebrities, entrepreneurs, and CEOs, delivering extraordinary results for local and international brands.Tory is also the author of Self Belief is Your Superpower, the host of the Powerful Stories Podcast, and the creator of the Business Attraction Program, a proven framework that helps clients attract their ideal customers, partners, and opportunities. Tory's mission is to share her story of survival, resilience, and success, and to inspire others to embrace their authenticity and genuine care for others. Tory believes that human connection is the key to creating value and impact in any industry. During this dynamic conversation, we dive into: Why self-belief is your superpower The #1 fear that holds most people back The power of three coffee dates each week How to protect your energy  The importance of Leading with heart  This episode is a MUST LISTEN and Tory's book is a MUST READ.  You can connect with Tory and explore her programs at:  https://powerful-steps.com/ Instagram @powerfulsteps Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tory-archbold-b8542715/ _______ If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level, connect with us via any of the following links and enquire about Consulting, Mentorship or Online Learning.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For anyone in business, this will be one of the most profound and moving episodes that you will listen to all year. Erin Deering, the accomplished Australian entrepreneur and co-founder of the renowned global swimwear brand, Triangl, has left a permanent mark on the fashion industry. Her innovative use of neoprene cuts and strategic embrace of the influencer effect propelled Triangl to cult status, culminating in a staggering valuation of USD$200 million. Yet, amidst the resounding success, Erin, like many women striving to 'have it all,' discovered the profound personal sacrifices that accompanied her professional journey. Feeling "totally broken" after years of relentless brand growth, Erin made a pivotal decision to step away from Triangl at its peak. This marked the beginning of an intensive period of self-discovery, during which she explored various avenues, including meditation, manifestation, and traditional therapy. Through this transformative process, Erin emerged with a rekindled sense of passion and purpose. In 2023, she launched a podcast titled "The Work," where she generously shared insights on business, personal development, and self-care. Erin, a multifaceted individual, has also embraced roles as a speaker, entrepreneur, mentor, and author. Her memoir, "Hanging By A Thread," recently claimed the #1 spot on Booktopia's charts. This year, Erin gears up to unveil her eagerly anticipated fashion brand in September. This venture reflects her unwavering commitment to blending style with substance, embodying the lessons learned from her remarkable journey. During this dynamic conversation, we dive into: The inspiration behind Erin’s book, Hanging by a Thread The highs and lows of growing the iconic Australian swimwear brand Triangl The experience of exiting Triangl and how it was navigated Erin’s healing journey from hanging by a thread to having it all  The exciting upcoming launch of Erin's new fashion brand  You can connect with Erin at: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/erinkdeering/ https://www.erindeering.com/ _______ If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level, connect with us via any of the following links and enquire about Consulting, Mentorship or Online Learning.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle Kent is the General Manager Industry Transformation at Seamless - a product stewardship scheme that aims to transform how clothing is made, used, reused and recycled in Australia to create clothing circularity by 2030. Danielle has been lead on the design and development of Seamless for the past two years with a Consortium of organisations and the Australian Fashion Council. She has extensive experience in strategy and complex change management as a consultant, and a full range of government experience. Danielle has a postgraduate in Social Impact and helped establish the not for profit company, Impact Investing Australia, reporting to the G8 International Social Taskforce on Impact Investing. She fully appreciates the discipline and challenges of system transformation and is passionate about the Seamless vision. During this conversation, we dived into: The seamless scheme framework, including circularity and citizenship What the seamless product stewardship scheme is setting out to achieve Why the fashion industry must take action now How brands and businesses can get involved What to expect next from Seamless   You can find out more about Seamless and register your interest here: https://ausfashioncouncil.com/program/seamless/ Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/ausfashioncouncil/ _______ If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level, connect with us via any of the following links and enquire about Consulting, Mentorship or Online Learning.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m thrilled  to kick off Season 5 by welcoming Brooke Summers and Ashley Hollis from Cotton Australia. Cotton Australia is the peak representative body for the Australian cotton growing industry.  Brooke currently leads Cotton Australia's work to connect the credentials of the Australian cotton industry with stakeholders throughout the textile supply chain.   Brooke has three decades of experience in strategic communication, marketing, project management, community and stakeholder engagement and is a passionate advocate for sustainability, natural fibres and Australia’s cotton farmers. Ashley is the Brand Relationship Manager at Cotton Australia. With 20 years’ experience in retail, fashion, education, and stakeholder engagement Ashley facilitates brand and industry business development and supply chain interaction to drive demand for Australian cotton. Ashley’s in-depth knowledge and network within the Australian cotton and wool industry including sustainability and supply chain development has enabled her to pioneer several successful collaborations, projects, programs, and educational content across the supply chain, from farm to fashion. This was a dynamic discussion that shone a light on:   The Australian Cotton To Market Strategy    Supply Chain Solutions   Sustainability, Circularity & Traceability   WHY brands should consider including Australian Cotton in their ranges.   The benefits of the Australian Cotton Mark & Global Sustainability Programs   Education and Resources available to you   The Australian Cotton Forum & Cotton Camp coming up in April.   And an exciting roadmap of Powerful Strategies that Cotton Australia is undertaking. We encourage you to connect with the team at Cotton Australia to explore how you can work together to inject Australian Cotton into your collections. You can connect with Cotton Australia at: https://cottonaustralia.com.au/ Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/auscotton/ Reach out to [email protected] if you would like an introduction to Brooke & Ashley.  ____ On behalf of Cotton Australia, you're invited to the upcoming Australian Cotton Forum, in Sydney on 30 April, 2024.You'll hear from sustainability experts, researchers, cotton industry leaders and farmers about the science, data, innovation, rural communities and practices behind Australia’s premium, sustainable cotton.A fast-paced agenda will keep you engaged and learning, with the opportunity to network with those out in the field every day.This forum will be ideal for: Fashion, retail, and textiles staff Sustainability, ethical sourcing, fabric technicians and quality control teams Fashion and textiles consultants Brand communication and marketing teams Tickets are free (including refreshments), and seats are strictly limited so please have a look at the agenda and secure your ticket by registering ASAP. Event details:What: Australian Cotton ForumWhen: 30 April, 2024Time: 8.30am to 4pmLocation: Commonwealth Bank Head Quarters Auditorium, 11 Harbour Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000GET YOUR TICKETS HERETicket registrations close 10 April, 2024. _______ If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level, connect with us via any of the following links and enquire about Consulting, Mentorship or Online Learning.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m excited to launch season 5 of the podcast and dive into our first Level Up Episode for 2024! I’ve decided to start a tradition here at Fashion Business Mindset and kick off each New Year with the Wheel of Life Exercise. This is a POWERFUL Tool that focuses on: REFLECTION – Where are you now? RESET– Where do you want to be? ACTION – Create a clear action plan to achieve your desired goals. So many of us are stepping into 2024 looking at our life, both personal and professional through a completely different lens.   Whether that is around: -   Values -   Lifestyle -   Business Direction -   Career Path -   Passion and Purpose -   Contribution -   Ambition and Aspirations   The Wheel of Life is well well-known powerful development tool because it gives you a vivid visual representation of the way your life is currently, compared with the way you'd ideally like it to be. This is well well-known powerful development tool because it gives you a vivid visual representation of the way your life is currently, compared with the way you'd ideally like it to be. I absolutely LOVE working through the wheel of life and make it a habit to check in on this every 3 months, to gauge my progress and dive into the entire exercise every 12 months. If you are a VISUAL person, this is the ideal way to start your Goal Setting and truly identify where you need to shift your focus, time and energy to that will support your IDEAL outcomes.   I recommend listening to this episode with our Wheel of Life Template at hand. You can download the template we created for you  here. Let’s Elevate together in 2024!  Follow Fashion Business Mindset on YouTube. Join our email list at Fashion Equipped _______ INDIA SOURCING EXPERIENCE TRIP - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | MARCH 11th - 15th 2024 Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a transformational business experience into the sophisticated world of production, sourcing and supply; meet with garment and fabric manufacturers; travel with like-minded business owners and mentors and connect with world-class artisans and manufacturers expressing the very best of India’s vibrant fashion culture. EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is our last episode for 2023 as we plan to dive into Season 5 of the podcast in the New Year. Thank you for YOUR support throughout the year. Knowing how precious time is, I appreciate you tuning in to our conversations and I hope you are constantly inspired and informed by the incredible guests that have committed their time to share their journeys with us. This year has been filled with so many incredible stories, and my favourite topic has been how to achieve LONGEVITY and GROWTH in our Industry.   To take this platform next level, we do need your ongoing support and feedback. How can you get involved? If there is a guest you would like to suggest, please DM me on Instagram – I love hearing from you. If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave us a review on your favourite platform – Apple, Spotify or any other Make sure you’re following the show on your favourite platform and our YouTube Channel – that way you’ll never miss an episode If you’re listening to the pod, please take a snap, post it on social and tag us in. Make sure you are on our Fashion Equipped email list so that you receive our ‘Episode Now Live’ alerts and our Monthly Edit where we share Industry News, Reports, Events and Community offers. Finally, we will also be open to Sponsorships next year, so if you would like a shoutout on our platform, please email me and I’d love to discuss working together As I embark on my fourth year as a Podcast Host, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the incredible guests who joined me this year.  Your generosity of time and knowledge is contributing to shaping THE FUTURE OF FASHON. Thank you again for tuning in. Thank you to all of our wonderful clients, our team and our community. Wishing you a fabulous, fashionable festive season. See you in 2024! Follow Fashion Business Mindset on YouTube. Join our email list at Fashion Equipped xox _______ INDIA SOURCING EXPERIENCE TRIP - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | MARCH 11th - 15th 2024 Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a transformational business experience into the sophisticated world of production, sourcing and supply; meet with garment and fabric manufacturers; travel with like-minded business owners and mentors and connect with world-class artisans and manufacturers expressing the very best of India’s vibrant fashion culture. EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I speak with  Leila Naja Hibri.  Leila was appointed as the CEO of the Australian Fashion Council in 2020. Leila also sits on the CSIRO Chief Scientist’s Circular Economy Advisory Group, the UTS Vice-Chancellor's Industry Advisory Board, and is a Juror for the International Design Awards (IDA). With a background in Economics and Accounting, Leila has over twenty years of experience in business and industry leadership, particularly in Australia and Asia. Her career has involved working with several global organizations including the United Nations, Prada and Luxottica. Leila envisages a future business world committed to prioritising people and planet, together with profit. This vision has driven the AFC’s mission to guide the just transformation of Australia’s fashion and textile industry towards net zero by 2050. Leila is also an active advocate for the promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion within society, industry and government. During our discussion, Leila has some BIG news to share as we discuss: The Future Leadership at the AFC Key Industry Initiatives driving change Embarking on and embracing the future of fashion And so much more! I have the utmost admiration for Leila as a thought leader and changemaker in our Industry and we have been very fortunate to have her at the helm of the AFC over the past four years. You can connect with the AFC and become a Member here.   Connect on Instagram at @ausfashioncouncil  _______ INDIA SOURCING EXPERIENCE TRIP - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | MARCH 11th - 15th 2024 Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a transformational business experience into the sophisticated world of production, sourcing and supply; meet with garment and fabric manufacturers; travel with like-minded business owners and mentors and connect with world-class artisans and manufacturers expressing the very best of India’s vibrant fashion culture. EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I speak with Marnie Goding, the Co-Founder of ELK. With a background in events and marketing, Marnie is a self taught entrepreneur with a passion for sustainable and ethical fashion.  Stemming from a desire to see broad sweeping industry change, she is moving ELK in a unique direction proving there is a better way to run business and make product. Her commitment to social and environmental responsibility has earned her numerous accolades and recognition as a leader in the industry. A pioneer of independent, Australian design, ELK was established in 2004 in Melbourne, founded by Marnie and her husband Adam.  Leading with a philosophy of conscious fashion, the business was founded on a belief in creativity, innovation and authentic design, contemporary fashion and independent, ethically made products.  These values have created a brand of enduring value. The ELK Mission is to responsibly create product with enduring value through a thoughtful, intelligent design philosophy, crafted with an artisanal aesthetic. To lead a conscious business supporting traditional trades and a circular economy that operates ethically and transparently, in safe, fair and inclusive workplaces. and to minimise our environmental footprint and create a positive impact on our local and global communities. Recently, Marnie participated in Fashion Re-Dressed, a Global Film Series produced by BBC Story Works and presented by the Global Fashion Agenda. ELK’s inclusion in this prestigious series is a testament to their ongoing commitment to conscious fashion and provides a unique opportunity to share their sustainability initiatives and values with a global audience.  We’ve included the link below so that you can tune in. ELK has also released it’s 2023 Transparency report and you’ll find the link below.  This is a dynamic interview that provides a deep insight into a much loved Iconic Australian Brand and the a front row seat to what it takes to achieve longevity in our Industry. I loved every minute of my time with Marnie, and no doubt you will too, so let's dive in.  You can connect at: https://elkthelabel.com/ You can download the 2023 ELK Transparency Report here.  https://elkthelabel.com/pages/transparency-report You can tune into the BBC Storyworks piece here. _______ INDIA SOURCING EXPERIENCE TRIP - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | MARCH 11th - 15th 2024 Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a transformational business experience into the sophisticated world of production, sourcing and supply; meet with garment and fabric manufacturers; travel with like-minded business owners and mentors and connect with world-class artisans and manufacturers expressing the very best of India’s vibrant fashion culture. EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST HERE. __________ We’re extending an Invitation for you to express your interest in a 3-Month Group Elevation Program - Starting April 2024 Join us for a transformative experience, where we delve into strategies to help you ELEVATE across three vital pillars: The Future of You The Future of Fashion The Future of Collaboration Register your Expression of Interest here OR head to the link in our Instagram bio.  Instagram: @fashionequipped  @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode,  I speak with Rebecca Thompson, the Founder, Designer and Director of the iconic Australian Fashion Label Rebecca Thompson.  Since launching in June 2000, Rebecca has become one of Australia's premier luxury fashion labels. The flagship Rebecca Thompson e-boutique offers a gorgeous mix of signature relaxed separates and unique dresses for every season. Each piece is distinctly Rebecca Thompson; timeless and classic.  With garments that are guaranteed to turn heads, every moment in Rebecca Thompson is a magic moment. RT is constantly experimenting with how to embellish fabrics. One season it may be heavy on prints, the next heavy with embroideries layered over prints. Dramatic colours, astonishing beading and embroidery work are all part of the textural process. The silhouettes are simple, flattering and easy to wear. The difference is the personal touch. Rebecca works with her own team of artisans in house to create fabrics that are either hand beaded, embroidered, or block printed.  Every piece is unique and individual. With over 30 years in the fashion industry Rebecca was determined to create a lovely boutique and mindful and caring work room. The India studio was set up from the get go, and still employs the same 6 staff.  All styles are textured and produced within the space. The Melbourne based  Bay St store in Melbourne was built out of necessity.  After 13 years of successful wholesaling, It was Rebecca's dream to create a colourful, fun shopping space. During our dynamic conversations, Rebecca shares: The drive and passion behind creating a legacy brand The unique RT in-store experience   Connection, community and customer loyalty  Embracing the future of fashion  And so much more!  You can connect at: https://rebeccathompson.com.au/ @instagram _______ INDIA SOURCING EXPERIENCE TRIP - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | MARCH 11th - 15th 2024 Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a transformational business experience into the sophisticated world of production, sourcing and supply; meet with garment and fabric manufacturers; travel with like-minded business owners and mentors and connect with world-class artisans and manufacturers expressing the very best of India’s vibrant fashion culture. EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST HERE. _____________ We’re extending an Invitation for you to express your interest in a 3-Month Group Elevation Program - Starting April 2024 Join us for a transformative experience, where we delve into strategies to help you ELEVATE across three vital pillars: The Future of You The Future of Fashion The Future of Collaboration Register your Expression of Interest here OR head to the link in our Instagram bio.  Instagram: @fashionequipped @startyourfashionbusiness_au Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.