Episodes

  • Taryn Brumfitt & Dr Zali Yager | How Fashion Can Empower Positive Body Image

    Taryn Brumfitt & Dr Zali Yager | How Fashion Can Empower Positive Body Image
    Oct 28 2025
    In this episode, I’m joined by two amazing women who are redefining the way we see ourselves and the world around us — Taryn Brumfitt and Dr Zali Yager, Co-Directors of The Embrace Collective. Taryn is an Australian of the Year, award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, and founder of the global Body Image Movement. Zali is an Adjunct Associate Professor and internationally recognised body image researcher who’s published more than 60 academic papers and dedicated her career to creating a safer body-image environment for the next generation. Together, they’ve built a movement that’s reached over 200 million people worldwide — blending storytelling, education, and evidence-based change. During this chat, we dive into: Taryn’s journey — from her viral “before-and-after” photo to the global Embrace films and the founding of The Embrace Collective. How Zali’s research and lived experience have combined to turn academic insights into real-world impact. The growing body-image challenges we’re facing— from social media and AI filters to the pressures of visibility in today’s digital world. The creation of the Feel Good Fashion Program — a new initiative empowering brands to build inclusive, body-safe environments for their teams and customers. Practical ways fashion leaders can take action — from representation and team training to rethinking the change-room and retail experience. And so much more! Both Taryn and Zali are doing powerful, transformative work that’s changing the conversation on body image and helping brands and communities create lasting impact. This is an inspiring conversation where we explore how we can all be part of a more inclusive and empowered fashion future. _____ You can connect with Taryn & Zali at: The Embrace Collective Taryn Instagram Dr Zali Yager Instagram Where to watch the Embrace film Please reach out to Taryn or Zali if you would like to know more about the Feel Good Fashion Program. __________ Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo. Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets. Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm. Book here: Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo Speakers: Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion EquippedA strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success. Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI ExpertFounder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025. Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked StudioAfter winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development. Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.au or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Del Rainbow’s Bianca Gregg | How Australian Brands Can Succeed in Global Wholesale

    Del Rainbow’s Bianca Gregg | How Australian Brands Can Succeed in Global Wholesale
    Oct 1 2025
    Event Alert!I’ll be leading an Industry Panel at the Global Sourcing Expo in Melbourne on 18 November, alongside Kelly Slessor and Christina Exie. Our topic is Growth, eCommerce and AI in Fashion. This conversation brings together three industry leaders in a discussion spanning sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI. We’ll blend my strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights, and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience. Whether you’re an established brand or a startup, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market. We hope you can join us, and of course take time to elevate your sourcing strategy at the Global Sourcing Expo, Melbourne, from 18–20 November. My guest on this episode is: Bianca Gregg, a leading figure among a new generation of brand leaders. As Co-Founder and strategist, Bianca has grown Del Rainbow from a boutique studio into a globally recognised fashion and logistics agency with teams across key global markets. Known for her unparalleled industry knowledge, intuitive approach, magnetic drive, and considered leadership, Bianca brings precision and unwavering commitment to every partnership. Her approach to wholesale is deeply holistic, balancing creative insight with commercial clarity. Bianca champions direct, transparent communication between brand and buyer, creating lasting value across every touchpoint. From emerging designers to established names, Bianca works closely with each client to craft a brand experience that’s both true to its ethos and tailored for global reach. Under her guidance, Del Rainbow has played a pivotal role in elevating emerging brands to international recognition, offering strategic direction that builds lasting global presence and long term brand value. With dedicated teams in New York, London, and Byron Bay, Del Rainbow continues to shape the growth of some of the most influential and forward-moving brands in the market today. During my chat with Bianca, we discussed… Building conscious brands and why Del Rainbow has become recognised globally for championing values-led, considered fashion businesses and creating international connections. The wholesale landscape, including how to authentically connect brands, retailers, and customers, and the importance of service, storytelling, and strong relationships. Supply chain strategy, critical paths, and production planning — and how brands can adapt quickly to changing timelines and market demands. US tariffs and trade complexities, including fluctuating tariff rates, the impact on brand margins, and strategies to mitigate costs through sourcing diversification, correct HS code classifications, and renegotiating pricing structures. Holding stock in the US and forecasting demand, including how to align with US buying calendars, work with 3PLs, and adopt rolling 3–6 month forecasts rather than long-term commitments. Advice for brands today — from collaboration and adaptability to range planning, global connectivity, and staying true to values while navigating a complex global market. You can connect with Bianca at: HOME - Del Rainbow del.rainbow (@del.rainbow) https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-gregg-64bb3761/?originalSubdomain=au __________ Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo. Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets. Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm. Book here: Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo Speakers: Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion EquippedA strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success. Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI ExpertFounder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025. Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked StudioAfter winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development. Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from ...
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • Leading Stylerunner | Anna Brennan on Growth, Strategy & Style

    Leading Stylerunner | Anna Brennan on Growth, Strategy & Style
    Sep 2 2025
    My guest in this episode is Anna Brennan, General Manager, Stylerunner. Anna Brennan is a highly accomplished retail leader with over 20 years of extensive experience across retail, merchandising, marketing, digital, and store operations. As General Manager of Stylerunner since May 2023, Anna is driving the brand's ambitious expansion strategy across Australia and New Zealand. Anna brings proven expertise in leading large-scale retail businesses and delivering exceptional commercial outcomes. Her impressive career spans some of fashion retail's most prestigious companies, including, The Iconic, Harvey Nichols, Glue Store. The Just Group and David Jones. Recognised for outstanding leadership in building and mentoring high-performing teams, Anna fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous development. She is a strong advocate for talent growth, coaching individuals to reach their full potential and drive organisational success. Vision for Stylerunner Under Anna's leadership, Stylerunner is positioned as the go-to destination for women in lifestyle and activewear—where fashion meets performance. She is spearheading the brand's bold vision to lead the market with a premium, fashion-first experience that empowers women to look and feel their best, wherever life takes them. "We are so excited to bring our vision to life and create spaces that celebrate our female community," says Anna of Stylerunner's expansion strategy. Anna is based in the Greater Sydney Area and continues to drive innovation in the rapidly growing Australian athleisure market, which is worth $4.2B and shows strong momentum in the premium segment. During our chat, Anna and I discussed: Doubling Stylerunner’s store numbers in just over two years Growing footwear to 55% of the product mix, with a major pivot into womens lifestyle sneakers The re-emergence of performance footwear with fashion-forward colours and styles How Anna and her team curate brands that resonate with female consumers across all ages Blending activewear with lifestyle pieces for a true “studio to street” experience Building community through national run clubs, engaging both serious runners and stylish beginners The role of own brand development and partnerships with global labels Balancing data, creativity, and team culture to fuel business growth And so much more! Visit Stylerunner here. Connect with Anna on Linkedin here. ________________ Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.au or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    57 mins
  • Reset & Reignite Your FY26 Growth Plan —The Monthly Edit | July 2025

    Reset & Reignite Your FY26 Growth Plan —The Monthly Edit | July 2025
    Jul 22 2025

    Welcome back to Fashion Business Mindset! In this solo episode, I’m diving into our July edition of The Monthly Edit — your go-to for curated industry insights, strategic prompts, and practical tools to help fashion founders and leaders thrive.

    As we enter a brand new financial year, this is your opportunity to hit reset, refocus your energy, and reignite your strategy for the months ahead. Whether you're a founder, scaling with a team, or leading across multiple channels — this episode is for you.

    Here’s what we cover:

    • A 3-step Mid-Year Reset Framework

    • FY26 Planning Prompts across Financials, Marketing, People, Product & Ops

    • The latest industry news — including a leadership shift at Vogue

    • Podcast highlights with Patricia Lynch on sourcing and innovation

    • Events to explore this season

    • What we’re reading and listening to

    • How to access exclusive subscriber-only content and consulting offers

    🔗 Prefer to read? The blog version of this episode is linked here.
    📩 Want exclusive tools and insights? Jump on our email list here— it's free and designed for founders like you.
    🚀 Ready for your next growth phase? Book your Clarity Call and explore our Fashion Business Growth Roadmap.

    Let’s make FY26 your most strategic and successful year yet.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    14 mins
  • Impact Edit | Mastering the art of buying and planning with Style Arcade

    Impact Edit | Mastering the art of buying and planning with Style Arcade
    Jul 8 2025

    Enjoy this Impact Edit with Michaela Wessels, CEO & Co-Founder of Style Arcade, the game-changing platform transforming retail and ecommerce for fashion brands worldwide.

    Tune in for your dose of business optimisation!

    If you enjoy this impact edit, you can listen to the full episode with Style Arcade here.

    ________

    Over the past four years, I've had the privilege of chatting with some of the most inspiring thought leaders and change makers in the fashion industry.

    From highly successful entrepreneurs and founders to those on their exciting start-up journey, my guests have shared their stories, insights, and strategies for making an impact while shaping the future of fashion.

    Thanks to you, our audience is growing rapidly, with new listeners joining us every week. To help you gain the most out of our conversations, we're excited to introduce our Impact Edit, which showcases the most powerful insights from our previous longer-form episodes.

    These are the golden nuggets – the ideas, strategies, and perspectives that can help you learn something new, spark a new idea, or solve a challenge you're facing in real-time in your business. And best of all, we've purposefully kept these episodes short – minimum time for maximum impact!

    So whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out on your journey, our aim is that you end each Impact Edit, with new information that will help you make a lasting impact in your business, with your team and your community.

    ______

    Work with Fashion Equipped
    If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

    Interested in Consulting?
    Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

    Connect with us:
    Instagram: @‌fashionequipped @‌startyourfashionbusiness_au
    Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
    Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    Let's do this together,

    Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    17 mins
  • Inside Parlour X: Eva Galambos on Retail Vision, Curation and Longevity

    Inside Parlour X: Eva Galambos on Retail Vision, Curation and Longevity
    Jun 25 2025

    My guest in this episode is Eva Galambos, the Founder and Director of Parlour X, Australia’s leading luxury fashion boutique, renowned for its exclusive curation of the world's most sought-after designer collections.

    After building her career in London and Sydney as a commercial fashion agent, Eva launched Parlour X in 2001. She quickly became one of Australia’s most influential buyers and fashion ambassadors abroad, regularly travelling to Paris and Milan to bring the best of global style to the local market.

    A long-time champion of Australian fashion and independent business, Eva has mentored emerging designers and students, judged major industry awards, led philanthropic initiatives, and continues to shape the future of fashion in Australia.

    In our conversation, Eva and I explored:

    • How she identified a clear gap in the Australian market and launched Parlour X with a bold, instinct-led vision

    • What it takes to build a globally recognised boutique that blends commercial success with creative integrity

    • Her approach to brand curation and why resisting sameness is essential for long-term relevance

    • How to create an exceptional customer experience, and why emotional connection, service, and space matter more than ever

    • The importance of trusting your gut in buying, visual merchandising, and retail strategy, even as trends and technologies evolve

    • Lessons from over 20 years of navigating the highs, lows, and constant change in luxury fashion

    • Eva’s advice on staying original, resilient, and deeply committed to your own path, no matter the noise around you

    This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone in fashion, retail, or creative leadership. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

    Vist Parlour X here:

    https://www.parlourx.com/

    Connect with Eva here.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-galambos-87195193/

    __________

    Work with Fashion Equipped
    If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

    Interested in Consulting?
    Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting andBook a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: https://fashionequipped.com.au/the-fashion-business-growth-roadmap

    Connect with us:
    Instagram: @‌fashionequipped @‌startyourfashionbusiness_au
    Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
    Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    Let's do this together,

    Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • The Design Gallery: Australia’s Must-Attend Event for Creative Innovation — with Patricia Lynch

    The Design Gallery: Australia’s Must-Attend Event for Creative Innovation — with Patricia Lynch
    Jun 5 2025

    My guest today is Patricia Lynch, the founder and creative director behind two influential platforms shaping Australia’s design landscape: The Design Gallery and Partridge Agency.

    With over two decades of experience in the fashion and textile industry, Patricia launched Partridge Agency as a globally recognised surface design agency, representing exclusive artwork for the fashion sector. Her deep industry knowledge and creative vision have helped connect Australian brands with some of the world’s most innovative print studios.

    Building on that success, she founded The Design Gallery — a curated sourcing event that brings together the country’s most forward-thinking designers, buyers, and suppliers. TDG isn’t just a trade show — it’s a platform for innovation, sustainability, and connection, giving both established brands and emerging creatives a space to grow, collaborate, and future-proof their work.

    Patricia’s work sits at the intersection of creativity and commerce, with a passion for elevating the Australian design industry on a global stage.

    The next edition of The Design Gallery will be held on the 27th and 28th of August at Carriageworks in Sydney — and it’s set to be the biggest and most future-focused event yet.

    During this episode, Pat and I dived into:

    • Her journey from retail beginnings to agency life and launching two powerhouse platforms

    • What makes The Design Gallery more than just a trade event — and why it’s so relevant for you to visit

    • How TDG supports both emerging and established designers across fashion, interiors, and lifestyle

    • Why print and surface design is having a resurgence in product development

    • How innovation, sustainability, and fashion tech are reshaping the sourcing experience

    • What to expect at The Design Gallery 2025 in Sydney

    • And how Pat leads with creativity, strategy, and wellbeing in a fast-paced industry

    I loved every minute of my chat with Patricia and I’m sure you will to.

    You can connect with Patricia at:

    Instagram: @‌thedesigngallery.au

    Web: The Design Gallery | The Design Gallery

    The Design Gallery Tickets Here. Free but you must register.

    Partridge Agency - PARTRIDGE | Print Sourcing

    _______________

    Work with us in 2025!
    If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level and work with Elizabeth and her team, connect with Fashion Equipped 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: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    52 mins
  • Making Circular Fashion Simple, Actionable & Scalable with Belinda Paul, Founder of RCYCL

    Making Circular Fashion Simple, Actionable & Scalable with Belinda Paul, Founder of RCYCL
    May 14 2025

    In this episode, Elizabeth chats with Belinda Paul, the Founder of RCYCL, a powerful plug-and-play platform helping fashion brands tackle textile waste with real, tangible solutions.

    With over 25 years of experience across product, buying, manufacturing, and brand management, Belinda brings a deep understanding of the fashion industry — and a passion for turning sustainability goals into everyday actions.

    RCYCL offers a circular solution that’s ready for immediate brand integration, featuring:

    • RCYCL: for end-of-life garments

    • REWEAR: in partnership with the Salvation Army to donate and rehome garments

    • REPAIR: through a growing network of local partners to professionally mend loved items

    Already partnering with leading retailers like THE ICONIC, RCYCL empowers brands to take meaningful steps in their Conscious Fashion Impact journey — and Belinda would love to connect with more forward-thinking brands.

    Tune in as we explore:

    • Belinda’s career journey and what led her to create RCYCL

    • The biggest myths and truths about textile waste

    • How fashion businesses can make an immediate impact

    • What’s next in the circular fashion movement

    💬 Connect with Belinda at rcycl.com.au

    Or Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/belindapaul-/
    📩 Share this episode with a brand founder or team ready to take action.

    ____


    Work with us in 2025!
    If you would like to take your Fashion Business to the next level and work with Elizabeth and her team in 2025, connect with Fashion Equipped 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: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    59 mins