057. We Made It To Five Years: Here Are Five Ways For Other Businesses To Do It

Manic Metallic celebrated its fifth anniversary as a business on January 1, 2026! We couldn’t be more excited about it.There are lessons that you learn along the way when you make it to five years as a company founder, and I decided to share some of those with our audience for The Manic Metallic Podcast.Plus, we’re celebrating our five-year mark by giving our listeners — and those who want to be a part of it — a chance to join The Manic Metallic Substack Newsletter community for 50% off of an annual subscription (from $80 to $40)!This invitation expires on January 12th; here’s the link for it: https://manicmetallic.substack.com/mmanniversaryHere’s the link to the latest issue (1/6/2026) of The Manic Metallic Substack Newsletter with more info about the 50% off invitation: https://manicmetallic.substack.com/p/our-plans-for-the-manic-metallicSUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Episode 56 is the first solo episode of The Manic Metallic Podcast in a couple of years! In it, Liberty discusses what she sees as the seventeen most interesting fashion and culture stories of 2025.These stories span the fashion, arts, and culture spectrum, from Ralph Lauren’s big year and 55k-Gate to the Louvre Heist and the sale of Frida Kahlo’s El sueño (La cama).The show notes here are very detailed and list sources for the stories that are discussed, and you’re encouraged to check those out below.Remember to subscribe to both The Manic Metallic Podcast and The Manic Metallic Substack Newsletter to keep up with our latest updates; here’s the Substack link: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeRESOURCES AND REFERENCESRalph LaurenPolo Ralph Lauren's Oak Bluffs Collection https://corporate.ralphlauren.com/pr_250723_PRLOakBluffs.htmlYouTube Video | RALPH LAUREN | Polo Ralph Lauren | A Portrait of the American Dream: Oak Bluffs https://youtu.be/UOT8CUBpERE?si=AukkHbsO1-i9TP3-Ralph Lauren's CFDA Award https://cfda.com/news/the-2025-cfda-awards-winners-and-honorees/Polo Ralph Lauren x Tópa collaboration https://corporate.ralphlauren.com/pr_251118_PRLxTOPA.htmlPolo Ralph Lauren's USPS Collection https://news.usps.com/2025/11/24/ralph-lauren-to-offer-usps-inspired-collection/Sydney Sweeney AE AdAmerican Eagle x Sydney Sweeney "Good Jeans" Ad, Explained https://www.npr.org/2025/08/01/nx-s1-5487286/sydney-sweeney-american-eagle-explained-why-controversy-racist-eugenics-trump-bathwater-ad-klein-statementLiberty Imhoff | TikTok Video On American Eagle x Sydney Sweeney ad https://www.tiktok.com/@libertytheaesthete/video/7532209718798880014The Cutting Room Floor (Recho Omondi) $55k ControversyLiberty Imhoff | Tiktok Video On The 55k Salary Controversy https://www.tiktok.com/@libertytheaesthete/video/7543400378138725646Liberty Imhoff | TikTok Video On Why Businesses Should Advocate For Universal Healthcarehttps://www.tiktok.com/@libertytheaesthete/video/7543684491462593805A 55k-Gate Article Explainer https://www.thecut.com/article/cutting-room-floor-job-controversy-55k.htmlCondé Nast's YearLiberty Imhoff | Tiktok Video On Teen Vogue Being Folded Into Vogue's Website https://www.tiktok.com/@libertytheaesthete/video/7568987241737981198Condé Union Firings https://www.semafor.com/article/11/06/2025/cond-nast-abruptly-fires-4-staffers-after-hr-confrontationTrump Antagonizing The Worlds of Arts and CultureUSA Today - Explainer https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/02/14/trump-kennedy-center-what-to-know/78618607007/How The Kennedy Center Takeover Has Been Going https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/06/politics/trump-kennedy-center-takeoverSally Mann's Censorship at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2025/01/09/sally-mann-photographs-seized-fort-worth-modern-art-museumAmy Sherald Canceling Her Show https://www.npr.org/2025/07/25/nx-s1-5479078-e1/artist-cancels-her-exhibition-after-smithsonian-wants-to-remove-a-portraitDepartures and DebutsThe Manic Metallic Substack Newsletter | #005: In The Know - The Musical Chairs Of Fashion https://manicmetallic.substack.com/p/005-in-the-know-the-musical-chairsCHANEL Métiers d’art 2026 Show in New York https://www.youtube.com/live/afbCCkgVGHY?si=_vy7l7N5uDSBFhfpThe Met's "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" Exhibition at the Costume InstituteManic Metallic Article | Review: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” https://manicmetallic.com/exhibitions/review-superfine-tailoring-black-style/Tariffs Rocking the Fashion IndustrySsense Bankruptcy https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqvg293gvpoSsense Hasn't Paid Many Indie Designers https://www.gq.com/story/ssense-indie-brands-creditor-listFrida Kahlo Painting Artnet Article https://news.artnet.com/market/frida-kahlo-el-sueno-sothebys-auction-2690737Puck Purchases Air MailAxios Article https://www.axios.com/2025/10/30/puck-air-mail-stock-deal-graydon-carterThe Manic Metallic Substack Newsletter | Who Actually Thinks That Condé Nast Is A Moral Company?https://manicmetallic.substack.com/p/who-actually-thinks-that-conde-nastSasha Suda + Philadelphia Art Museum Termination SagaPhillyvoice: An Explainer https://www.phillyvoice.com/sasha-suda-lawsuit-philadelphia-art-museum-firing/Info On The Rebrand and How People Felt About It https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/the-philadelphia-art-museum-rebrand-surprised-locals-and-board-members-is-it-as-bad-as-some-say/ar-AA1PN5sJManic Metallic Article | Review: "Dreamworld: Surrealism At 100" https://manicmetallic.com/reviews/review-dreamworld-surrealism-at-100/Prada's Purchase Of VersaceInfo On the Purchase https://apnews.com/article/italy-fashion-prada-versace-62a0c62b0a5c332af996ce7ad4d548a9Dario Vitale's Exit https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/04/style/versace-designer-exit-dario-vitaleJeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Taking Over FashionArtNet Article https://news.artnet.com/art-world/jeff-bezos-lauren-sanchez-bezos-met-gala-2715793The Daily Beast Article https://www.thedailybeast.com/jeff-bezos-buys-lauren-sanchez-the-party-of-the-year/#user-commentsLiberty Imhoff | Tiktok Video On The Met Gala Sponsorship https://www.tiktok.com/@libertytheaesthete/video/7574909707219995918Significant DeathsFrank Gehry https://apnews.com/article/architect-frank-gehry-died-obit-guggenheim-disney-a023a30877e6e9644dd9ad8f1f4217f4Giorgio Armani https://apnews.com/article/italy-obit-giorgio-armani-bb4b91756214c456fd5db14216a91b75David Lynch https://apnews.com/article/david-lynch-dies-9107f3ce0b4dd49dbe3dc2ae3c09ed59AI Gets Its Hands On EverythingManic Metallic | How To Use AI Without Selling Your Soul: A Guide For Creatives https://manicmetallic.com/product/how-to-use-ai-without-selling-your-soul-a-guide-for-creatives-product/Doji (AI Try-On App That Creates A Likeness Of You) https://www.doji.com/Daydream (AI Fashion Agent) https://daydream.ing/Whering (Social Wardrobe and Styling App) https://whering.co.uk/Louvre Crown Jewels StolenPBS Article - Explainer https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/crown-jewels-stolen-from-louvre-in-4-minute-operation-by-thieves-in-broad-daylightPURCHASE "HOW TO USE AI WITHOUT SELLING YOUR SOUL: A GUIDE FOR CREATIVES” FROM MANIC METALLIChttps://manicmetallic.com/product/how-to-use-ai-without-selling-your-soul-a-guide-for-creatives-product/BOOK AN INDIVIDUAL FASHION WARDROBE AUDIT FROM MANIC METALLIC:https://manicmetallic.com/wardrobe-audit-for-individuals/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffTikTok: @libertytheaestheteWebsite: libertyimhoff.comLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/libertyimhoff/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

On Episode 55 of The Manic Metallic Podcast, we spoke with Layo Gbadamosi, a fashion designer and entertainment lawyer. Here’s some of what we discussed:How she made it through attending both fashion school and law school at the same timeThe inventive way that she created her first legal job by way of fashionHow creatives can talk to white-collar professionals about what they doThe visual inspiration of Layo GWhy you need to get really clear on your target customerHow AI makes authenticity more important than everWhat legacy media is doing wrong in fashion — and whether there is any hope for them to evolveAnd more!CONNECT WITH LAYOWebsite) https://www.layo-g.com/Social Media) @layo_g_officialText/Call) 212-503-8569Layo’s Bio:Nigerian born designer and lawyer, Layo Gbadamosi established her eponymous line in the heart of New York City in 2014. Layo studied Fashion Design at Parsons, The New School for Design, while simultaneously attending law school at Fordham University School of Law.She spent the early years of her career learning about the business of fashion by interning and working in the legal departments of Burberry, Coach, Saks Fifth Avenue, Stuart Weitzman and more. Upon obtaining her law license, she served as Chief Legal Counsel and Director for Jovani Fashions, the evening-wear giant.She switched gears and went on to establish a preeminent career as an Entertainment Lawyer in the television and film industry. She made her way up the corporate ladder in an environment dominated by men. She worked at Viacom as a Business & Legal Affairs Director at its BET brand, then went on to become a Business & Legal Affairs executive and Senior Counsel at Endeavor Content, a subsidiary of Endeavor, the global entertainment juggernaut.She now serves as Executive Director of Business Affairs at Disney, supporting its ABC brand. As the legal executive overseeing various programming hits such as Rihanna’s “Savage x Fenty” fashion show on Amazon, "Being Serena" on HBO, "Juventus" on Netflix, Disney’s yearly holiday specials and much more, she quickly rose up the ranks and is recognized for her ability to successfully close highly negotiated deals.As a lawyer, business executive, entrepreneur, mother, wife and a multitude of other titles, Layo Gbadamosi is the embodiment of the women this brand serves. She has learned how to navigate the corporate battlefield and has come to understand the struggles working women face in terrains where many glass ceilings still need to be shattered. Layo seamlessly transitions into the role of mom and wife daily and knows first hand the juggling act women all over the world perform as they seek to do it all.She is the woman she designs for and the Layo G woman was born through her experiences.PURCHASE "HOW TO USE AI WITHOUT SELLING YOUR SOUL: A GUIDE FOR CREATIVES” FROM MANIC METALLIChttps://manicmetallic.com/product/how-to-use-ai-without-selling-your-soul-a-guide-for-creatives-product/BOOK AN INDIVIDUAL FASHION WARDROBE AUDIT FROM MANIC METALLIC:https://manicmetallic.com/wardrobe-audit-for-individuals/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Episode 54 of The Manic Metallic Podcast with creative entrepreneur Dareyna Swann ran the gamut from fashion education and artificial intelligence to fast fashion and ways to get into fashion that people don’t talk about as much as they should.Specifically, here is some of what we covered:Dareyna’s education as a teen at the High School of Fashion Industries in ManhattanHow fashion can actually be a lucrative industryWhy fashion needs to solve more problemsHow your desire for prestige is keeping you underpaid and manipulatedWhy Dareyna believes the criticism of Shein is unwarrantedThe innovative ways in which both our companies are using AI — and how you can adapt what we’re doing for your useAI’s impact on the future of workHow the average person is already using AI without knowingBias in AI systemsAnd more!RESOURCES AND REFERENCESPhiladelphia RecommendationsVisit the Maison Philly Fashion Week retail location (and attend Philly Fashion Week) https://www.phillyfashionweek.org/Visit the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator https://philadelphiafashionincubator.com/CONNECT WITH DAREYNAGood Vybes Beauty: https://payhip.com/GoodVybesBeautyservicesThe Fashion Resource Network https://thefashionresourcenetwork.com/Social Media Handles: @Dswannbeautyartist and @thefashionresourcenetworkDareyna’s Bio:Dareyna Swann is a multi-hyphenate creative entrepreneur, educator, and digital strategist based in Philadelphia, although a New York Native. She operates Good Vybes Beauty, a digital marketing agency that offers creative services for beauty and fashion brands, and she is actively building a multi-layered business ecosystem that spans AI-powered fashion and beauty content creation, digital marketing services and fashion/beauty education programs.Dareyna is passionate about AI-driven personal branding and content creation, creating virtual influencers like Mona Raye and Liyah Reign, who are used as case studies and marketing assets. Her flagship educational offerings, such as the AI Glow-Up™ skool community and Digital Double™ course, empower aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs to leverage AI tools for brand growth.Dareyna's career spans over 20 years in the fashion, education, and beauty industries, where she has developed curricula, taught at Thomas Jefferson University, and worked with high-profile clients such as Lil' Kim. She is also worked with initiatives like the Virgil Abloh™ 'Post-Modern' Scholarship Fund, and Fashion Scholarship Fund, offering mentorship and educational opportunities for underrepresented creatives.A strong advocate for diversity, empowerment, and inclusivity, Dareyna strives to bridge the gap between fashion, technology, and education. She’s committed to helping others build profitable fashion brands and scale their businesses through AI-powered solutions and digital marketing strategies.You can find her on social media under @Dswannbeautyartist and @thefashionresourcenetwork, where she shares her expertise on fashion, business, and branding.PURCHASE "HOW TO USE AI WITHOUT SELLING YOUR SOUL: A GUIDE FOR CREATIVES” FROM MANIC METALLIChttps://manicmetallic.com/product/how-to-use-ai-without-selling-your-soul-a-guide-for-creatives-product/BOOK AN INDIVIDUAL FASHION WARDROBE AUDIT FROM MANIC METALLIC:https://manicmetallic.com/wardrobe-audit-for-individuals/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

On Episode 53 of The Manic Metallic Podcast, I had a fun, value-packed conversation with Onalaja creative director Kanyinsola Onajala.Here’s a peek into some of what we talked about:What Kanyinsola learned about fashion from her personal experiences in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and ItalyHer pointers on getting into fashion for folks that have not (or did not) natively come from — or attend school in — an area rich with fashion history and cultureHer experiences in working with British designers Christopher Kane and Giles DeaconThe personal reason that Kanyinsola is so devoted to size inclusivity in her work with OnalajaThe advantages of running a made-to-order design brandInitiatives that she’s seen in the British fashion industry to combat sustainability issues in fashionInspiration for Onalaja’s latest collection, which is also the 10th anniversary collectionAnd a lot more!RESOURCES AND REFERENCESLondon RecommendationsVisit the Victoria and Albert Museum https://www.vam.ac.uk/Check out Carnaby Street https://www.thisissoho.co.uk/carnaby-street/Go to Shoreditch for art galleries, food, and fashion (here’s an article that I found; seems useful: https://madeinshoreditch.co.uk/2025/01/04/best-vintage-shops-shoreditch/)CONNECT WITH KANYINSOLAOnalaja (Website) https://onalaja.com/Onalaja (Tiktok) https://www.tiktok.com/@onalajaofficialOnalaja (Youtube) https://www.youtube.com/@onalajaofficialOnalaja (Pinterest) https://uk.pinterest.com/OnalajaBrand/Onalaja (Linkedin) https://www.linkedin.com/company/onalaja/Kanyinsola’s Bio:Kanyinsola Onalaja is a Nigerian-born, London- and Rome- educated fashion designer, creative director, and visionary entrepreneur shaping the future of African luxury. As the founder of her namesake brand Onalaja, she has earned global recognition for her ability to fuse traditional African craftsmanship with modern, high-fashion sensibilities creating immersive, three-dimensional pieces that transcend borders and redefine contemporary elegance.A graduate of Istituto Marangoni, with advanced training in 3D pattern cutting in Rome, Kanyinsola has honed her expertise with renowned fashion houses including Christopher Kane and Giles Deacon Couture, and worked as a luxury embroidery specialist in London and Paris. Since launching Onalaja, she has scaled it into an internationally stocked label with a presence at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Revolve, Zalando, and Industrie Africa.Under her leadership, Onalaja has become a symbol of slow, inclusive luxury, producing ethically crafted garments in sizes XXS to XXXXL, while championing sustainability and individuality.Her designs have been worn by icons including Jennifer Hudson, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Camila Coelho, Chloe Bailey, Kelly Rowland, Lizzo, Tiwa Savage, and Kandi Burruss, and showcased on global stages like New York Fashion Week and Lagos Fashion Week. The brand has been spotlighted by Vogue, Essence, Harper’s Bazaar, and the Business of Fashion, with Kanyinsola recognized as a Vogue Talents “One to Watch” and a recipient of the UN Global Top 100 Under 40 of African Descent.Beyond the runway, Kanyinsola is a strategic thinker and industry leader committed to building a business rooted in cultural storytelling, community empowerment, and innovative design. She is part of a bold new generation of African women redefining what it means to lead in global fashion.PURCHASE "HOW TO USE AI WITHOUT SELLING YOUR SOUL: A GUIDE FOR CREATIVES” FROM MANIC METALLIChttps://manicmetallic.com/product/how-to-use-ai-without-selling-your-soul-a-guide-for-creatives-product/BOOK AN INDIVIDUAL FASHION WARDROBE AUDIT FROM MANIC METALLIC:https://manicmetallic.com/wardrobe-audit-for-individuals/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

On Episode 52 of The Manic Metallic Podcast, I had a nice chat with Fashion Talk founder and Editor-in-Chief Amarissa Imoukhuede.We discussed, among other topics, the following:The synergy of Manic Metallic and Fashion TalkHow growing up in a household that prioritized creativity and individualism influenced her desire to be in the fashion industryHer journey through the fashion industry, from her first roles at a small home decor company and at Calvin Klein to being a fashion publication founderWhat she believes got her her dream job at Calvin KleinWhy it’s important to approach things with confidenceHer ideation process for topics that she chooses to include in Fashion TalkThe 2025 Spring Met Costume Exhibition theme, its significance, and the philosophical underpinnings of Black DandyismAnd a ton more!RESOURCES AND REFERENCESNew York RecommendationsHang Out In Soho (no specific agenda)Go To Art Museums, Galleries, etc. To Meet PeopleThirsty Gallerina (1: Website) https://www.thirstygallerina.com/Thirsty Gallerina (2: TikTok) https://www.tiktok.com/@thirstygallerinaThirsty Gallerina (3: Linktree) https://linktr.ee/thirstygallerinaCONNECT WITH AMARISSAFashion Talk (Substack) https://fashiontalk.substack.com/Fashion Talk (Linkedin) https://www.linkedin.com/company/fashion-talk/Amarissa’s Bio:Amarissa Imoukhuede is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Fashion Talk, a global Substack publication exploring the intersection of fashion and culture through editorial storytelling and sharp cultural commentary.Born in Chicago, raised in New York, and shaped by time spent in London and Nigeria, Amarissa has always been a worldwide woman, with fashion running through her blood and a deep curiosity for how style connects across cultures.Read in over 70 countries, Fashion Talk champions diverse voices, self-expression, and emerging perspectives in fashion, with a strong focus on community and mentorship. Through Student Voices, the platform’s student writing program, Amarissa nurtures the next generation of fashion thinkers by offering space, guidance, and visibility to young writers shaping the culture.With a background rooted in both editorial depth and community building, Amarissa isn’t just reporting on the future of fashion, she’s helping build it.PURCHASE "THE MANIC METALLIC GUIDE TO CREATING A FASHION COMPANY"https://manicmetallic.com/product/the-manic-metallic-tech-guide-to-creating-a-fashion-company/ SHOP MANIC METALLIC'S E-COMMERCE STOREhttps://manicmetallic.com/shop/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Episode 51 of The Manic Metallic Podcast is a marathon interview with BB Babes founder Mindy Solkin. We discuss too much to mention in a description, but some of our topics were:Mindy’s Northeast Philadelphia childhood, and how it influenced her desire to work in fashionWhether online stores’ continued dominance correlate with a loss of respect for fashionHow engaging in creative hobbies could foster a genuine enjoyment of fashionHow fashion will always have an element of selfishness and why that isA post-mortem of the Philadelphia Center City Macy’s debacle — and problems with Macy’s as a wholeMindy’s new venture, BB Babes, and how she’s looking to connect with her fellow Baby Boomer womenHer thoughts on the style of Gen ZAnd a lot more!RESOURCES AND REFERENCES(Places To Shop)M Concept https://mconceptshop.com/Wayne Edwards Workshop https://www.wayneedwardsworkshop.com/Sioux Zanne MessixCONNECT WITH MINDYThe Running Center https://www.therunningcenter.com/BB Babes https://bbbabes.net/Mindy’s Bio:Mindy Solkin has four key passions: Fashion, Fitness, Entrepreneurship, and Giving Back. She holds a degree in fashion design from Drexel University, which led her to design apparel for various garment manufacturers. This included managing a design department at a major bridal manufacturer for four years, culminating in the creation of her own business focused on designing formal dresses.Born and raised in Philadelphia, a trip to a running camp in Vermont profoundly influenced her life. Having been a runner since 1978, and with the fitness trend gaining momentum in the early 1990s, she relocated to New York City and founded The Running Center in Manhattan, a specialty training studio for runners.Over a span of 25 years, she coached thousands of individuals to achieve their dream of running a marathon, while personally completing six marathons and earning age-group awards in distances ranging from 5K to half-marathon.In 2016, Mindy returned to her hometown and re-ignited her fashion career, serving as the personal stylist at Macy's in Center City Philadelphia for five years.But her entrepreneurial spirit remained strong, and with nearly five decades of creative work and business experience, she launched BB Babes, The Fashion, Fitness, and Health Network for Baby Boomer Women. BB Babes pays tribute to women born between 1946 and 1964 who are still gainfully employed, or own businesses, or have retired but continue to engage in various pursuits whether business-oriented or civic-minded.Mindy aims to share her knowledge, experiences, and lifelong interests in fashion, fitness, and health with women of her generation through BB Babes. Because to Mindy, nothing beats the feeling of making a positive impact on someone’s life.PURCHASE "THE MANIC METALLIC GUIDE TO CREATING A FASHION COMPANY"https://manicmetallic.com/product/the-manic-metallic-tech-guide-to-creating-a-fashion-company/ SHOP MANIC METALLIC'S E-COMMERCE STOREhttps://manicmetallic.com/shop/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubscribe To Our Substack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeManic Metallic Website: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Episode 50 of The Manic Metallic Podcast sees us interviewing Guzangs founder Idelle Taye, a rising star in the fashion space and a passionate advocate for the African fashion scene.In this episode, we discuss a wide variety of topics, including:The Guzangs mission, and how Idelle came up with the idea for the companyMisconceptions that Westerners have about the African fashion sceneThe challenges of entering the industry for people without a fashion background and that, consequently, have zero connections — and advice for those in this situationThe company's recent partnership with Marist University on a very successful fashion exhibitionHow sustainability is baked into the African way of life and, therefore, into African fashionAnd so much more!IDELLE’S BIOIdelle Taye is the founder and style director at GUZANGS. Guzangs is considered to be the "Vogue/BOF of Africa,” tirelessly championing African fashion and design and art in unprecedented ways. Idelle is a trailblazer in discovering and celebrating talent from the African continent on a global platform. Across fields, biennials, fairs, and fashion weeks, there is a clear and growing sense that we are entering into an era that is Africa’s time – and Idelle has been a foundational part of growing, developing, supporting, and promoting the talents making that happen. She recently produced the 'Alternative Realities' fashion exhibitions in the U.S., spotlighting over 200 works from 14 designers across Africa – including Lagos Space Programme and Nkwo – to capture the energy, culture, and unique purview of African designers.As Guzangs continues to grow, it’s followed by notable figures including Alicia Keys, Channing Tatum, Ava DuVernay, and Stefano Pilati, emphasizing the breadth and scope of its influence. It's also a testament to how this amazing content and stories from the continent are resonating with such a diverse audience, including Hollywood. Idelle is deeply immersed in the continent’s fashion ecosystem and champions its role in global culture and sustainable fashion.RESOURCES AND REFERENCESEssence Magazine interview:https://www.essence.com/fashion/idelle-taye-founder-of-guzangs-platform/Photos From The ‘Alternative Realities: Modern and Contemporary African Fashion’ fashion exhibition at Marist University in Poughkeepsie:https://bfa.com/events/46525/share/243995326a7509CONNECT WITH IDELLE TAYEhttps://www.instagram.com/guzangs/https://guzangs.comConnect On FacebookPURCHASE "THE MANIC METALLIC GUIDE TO CREATING A FASHION COMPANY"https://manicmetallic.com/product/the-manic-metallic-tech-guide-to-creating-a-fashion-company/ SHOP MANIC METALLIC'S E-COMMERCE STOREhttps://manicmetallic.com/shop/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubstack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeWebsite: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Welcome to Season 4 of The Manic Metallic Podcast!We're kicking off the season by doing a last word on New York Fashion Week's SS24 collections (and we will try to do the same for London, Milan, and Paris, time-dependent, of course).We've broken down the shows into five categories:Initial Thoughts (shows that, for better or worse, we wanted to elaborate on a bit more)Perennially Chic (shows by brands/designers that are, well, perennially chic)Collections That Were Nice, But Not Groundbreaking (self-explanatory)Honorable Mentions (shows that were fine, but I didn't feel compelled to elaborate further on them)Keep An Eye On (Design brands that are young/youngish and that have a bright future in the industry)We elaborate where necessary and we don't when we don't feel that it is warranted.If we get to have this format of episode for the fashion weeks in the other three cities mentioned above, this same format will hold true.What did you think about NYFW this past season? DM us at Manic Metallic, and let's talk!RESOURCES AND REFERENCESManic Metallic https://manicmetallic.com/editorials/to-designers-you-dont-have-to-present-a-fashion-collection-every-season-if-youre-not-inspired/Pinterest (NYFW Pinterest Board) https://www.pinterest.com/liberty_manic/fashion-month-picks-springsummer-2024-rtw-shows/new-york-fashion-week-springsummer-2024-rtw/PURCHASE "THE MANIC METALLIC GUIDE TO CREATING A FASHION COMPANY"https://manicmetallic.com/product/the-manic-metallic-tech-guide-to-creating-a-fashion-company/ SHOP MANIC METALLIC'S E-COMMERCE STOREhttps://manicmetallic.com/shop/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubstack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeWebsite: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content

Episode 48 of The Manic Metallic Podcast is a masterclass in branding and visibility, courtesy of multifaceted St. Louis-based fashionpreneur AK Brown.We discuss such topics as:Why we are stronger together in fashion rather than constantly working against each other - AKA, why we need to set our egos aside to achieve positive results for fashionThe concept of a “fraudscape” - and how it has made its way into both the fashion and media landscapeWhy we really, REALLY need to double down on creating websites and newsletters for our businesses - and how to get newsletter subscribersAn argument for counterfeiting and dupes that you would not expectMeta/Facebook’s blue check mark monetization initiativeHow to get media visibility - and why it isn’t always necessary to have a large audience in order to build partnershipsAnd more!AK'S BIOAK Brown - The Fashion Connector™ is a multifaceted fashionpreneur, fashion expert, thought leader, and connection maker who uses her platform to educate and advocate for other fashion brands, creatives, & businesses.  As a St. Louis-based fashion innovator with 10 years of experience, AK has grown her brand through various avenues including the product development, styling, media, non-profit, & educational sectors.She is the founder and CEO of FWRDSociety - the first nonprofit for Black, Brown, & POC fashion creatives and professionals in St. Louis, MO, co-owner of PinkMuse Studio, a fashion editorial studio and magazine, and is an adjunct professor at Stevens - The Institute of Business & Arts.She’s been quoted as such in fashion outlets including Teen Vogue, The Zoe Report, InStyle, & Bustle, and has worked with organizations and community leaders locally and nationally, including Cori Bush, Washington University, & MAGIC.RESOURCESUnderstanding the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) rule governing date in the European Union https://www.cjr.org/tow_center_reports/understanding-general-data-protection-regulation.php Edgy Chic Boutique https://edgychicboutique.com/ Style Vault https://thestylevaultboutique.com/ Hustle City: Instagram - @hustl3c1t4_cf Connect With AK Brown:Website: https://www.akbrownstl.com/ Instagram: @akbrownstlPodcast: The Haute Guide https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-haute-guide/id1661230412 PURCHASE "THE MANIC METALLIC GUIDE TO CREATING A FASHION COMPANY"https://manicmetallic.com/product/the-manic-metallic-tech-guide-to-creating-a-fashion-company/ SHOP MANIC METALLIC'S E-COMMERCE STOREhttps://manicmetallic.com/shop/SUPPORT THE MANIC METALLIC PODCAST ($)https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11d2b542-f3b4-4462-b85e-5708034cb823/donationsCONNECT WITH MANIC METALLICSubstack Newsletter: manicmetallic.substack.com/subscribeWebsite: manicmetallic.comCONNECT WITH LIBERTYSubstack: substack.com/@libertyimhoffWebsite: libertyimhoff.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-manic-metallic-podcast/exclusive-content