Episodes

  • Building Kivari: From a Market Stall to a Multi-Channel Brand | Kiki Keysers
    Apr 21 2026
    What does it really take to build a fashion brand from the ground up and scale it into a globally recognised, multi-channel business? In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m joined by Kiki Keysers, Founder of KIVARI, to unpack the journey behind one of Australia’s most successful contemporary fashion brands. What started with just $200, a handmade product and a market stall has evolved into a thriving business spanning retail, eCommerce and wholesale, with a loyal global customer and a strong, recognisable brand identity. Kiki shares the real story behind that growth. The risks, the decisions, the mindset shifts and the discipline required to build a brand that not only scales, but sustains. This is an honest and highly practical conversation for founders navigating growth, complexity and the next stage of their business. In this episode, we explore: How Kivari began, from a spontaneous idea in Bali to a market stall in Australia The early decisions that shaped the brand’s trajectory, including retail, hiring and investment The reality of scaling a fashion business across retail, eCommerce and wholesale Why every channel must have a clear purpose in a multi-channel strategy The importance of discipline across margin, product and operations in today’s market How to evolve your product offering while staying true to your brand DNA Building and leading a high-performing team as the business grows Founder visibility and the role it plays in modern brand building The mindset required to navigate growth, uncertainty and leadership Why “confidence comes by doing” and how to move forward before you feel ready Key Takeaway Building a successful fashion brand isn’t about having everything figured out from the start. It’s about taking action, backing yourself and building the confidence along the way. About the Guest Kirstin-Lee “Kiki” Keysers is the Founder and Creative Director of KIVARI, one of Australia’s leading women’s fashion and lifestyle brands. What began as a small market stall on the Gold Coast has grown into a multi-million-dollar global business, known for its timeless design, effortless femininity and strong brand storytelling. Today, Kiki leads a fast-growing team while continuing to shape the creative direction of the brand, building a business grounded in freedom, intuition and purpose. Explore KIVARI at KIVARI | Elevated & Effortless Resortwear For Your Everyday About Fashion Business Mindset Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses. Work with Fashion Equipped Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution. Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction. This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last. Interested in Strategic Advisory? The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business. 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 Interested in Sponsorship? We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion. To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.auor DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    58 mins
  • Wear Nature, Not Plastic: 20 Years of Building Kowtow | Gosia Piątek
    Mar 31 2026
    In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, Elizabeth Formosa sits down with Gosia Piątek, Founder of Kowtow, a pioneer in sustainable and circular fashion. Founded in 2006, Kowtow has built a global reputation for its commitment to ethical production, Fairtrade organic cotton, and a fully transparent supply chain. But what truly sets the brand apart is its long-term vision. From the very beginning, Gosia set out to create clothing that comes from the earth and can safely return to it. Nearly 20 years later, that vision has been realised. Kowtow has developed a groundbreaking process using biochar, allowing garments to be returned to the soil without harm and completely free from plastic. In this conversation, we explore: The original vision behind Kowtow and what inspired Gosia to challenge the fashion industry Building a sustainable brand before sustainability was mainstream The reality of creating a fully transparent and ethical supply chain Kowtow’s biochar innovation and what it means for the future of circular fashion Customer demand for sustainability and how it has evolved The current state of fashion trade and navigating economic uncertainty Balancing purpose and profitability in a values-driven business Marketing and storytelling for a conscious brand Leadership, mindset and founder growth What the future holds for fashion and the opportunity for brands willing to lead change This episode is a must-listen for founders, designers and industry leaders looking to build commercially strong, responsible and future-focused fashion businesses. About the Guest: Gosia Piątek is the Founder of Kowtow, a globally recognised sustainable fashion brand known for its commitment to Fairtrade organic cotton, ethical production and circular design principles. Explore Kowtow at: Web: Kowtow Ethical & Organic Clothingl Download the Kowtow plastic-free guide here: Plastic Free Handbook Read about biochar here: Our garments now feed the earth How Kowtow went plastic-free here: Plastic Free _________ About Fashion Business Mindset Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses. ________ Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026 Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution. Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction. This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last. Interested in Strategic Advisory? The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business. 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 Interested in Sponsorship? We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion. To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.auor DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 22 mins
  • The Resilience of Independent Fashion Retail | Adella Greenwood | Grace & Willow
    Mar 18 2026
    What It Takes to Run a Resilient Fashion Boutique Running an independent fashion boutique today demands resilience, commercial discipline, deep customer connection and the ability to adapt as the retail landscape continues to evolve. In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m joined by Adella Greenwood, co-founder of Grace & Willow, a much-loved multi-brand boutique located in the seaside suburb of Williamstown in Victoria. With more than two decades in fashion and retail, Adella has built a thriving boutique known for its strong sense of community and its carefully curated mix of Australian and international designers. Together with her sister Hannah, she has created a space where confident, expressive women can discover pieces that reflect their personal style. In our conversation, Adella shares the journey of building an independent retail business over more than a decade, and the realities of operating on the front line of fashion retail. We explore how she approaches brand selection and buying, how independent boutiques navigate competition from larger retailers and online platforms, and why customer relationships and community remain at the heart of Grace & Willow’s success. Adella also shares her perspective on the current retail climate, how customer behaviour has shifted in recent years, and where she sees both risk and opportunity for independent retailers moving forward. This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about what it truly takes to build and sustain an independent fashion business today. In this episode, we discuss: How Grace & Willow began and the vision behind the boutique The evolution of Adella’s buying strategy and brand mix Navigating competition from larger retailers and online platforms The importance of community and customer relationships in boutique retail Leading a small retail team and building a strong culture Shifts in customer behaviour and the current retail climate What discipline and resilience look like in independent retail today Explore Grace & Willow at: https://www.graceandwillow.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/graceandwillow/?hl=en _________ About Fashion Business Mindset Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses. ________ Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026 Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution. Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction. This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last. Interested in Strategic Advisory? The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business. 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 Interested in Sponsorship? We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion. To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.auor DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    54 mins
  • The Pathway to Profitability in 2026
    Feb 24 2026

    In this opening episode of Season 7, Elizabeth Formosa unpacks what profitability really requires in 2026 — and why net cash in the bank matters just as much as the P&L.

    Across the industry, many brands are growing. Revenue is up. Orders are flowing. From the outside, things look strong. But internally, margins are tighter, cash flow feels heavier, and decision-making has become more complex.

    This episode explores the shift required for founders who want sustainable, commercially sound growth.

    Elizabeth shares the five core pillars she sees separating reactive businesses from intentional ones:

    • Clarity before growth

    • Intentional product and inventory decisions

    • Channel discipline

    • Structure that matches the stage of the business

    • Reducing founder and leadership decision load

    You’ll also hear why:

    – Profit is an accounting outcome
    – Cash is operational reality
    – And disciplined decision-making is the true driver of both

    This is not a tactical episode about quick wins.
    It’s a strategic conversation about building resilient fashion businesses that can grow, reinvest and stabilise with confidence.

    If 2026 feels like a year where your next decision truly matters, this episode is for you.

    _____

    Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026

    Ready to scale with clarity, confidence and intention?

    Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution.

    Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction.

    This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last.

    Interested in Strategic Advisory?

    The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.
    Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business.

    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: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
    Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    Interested in Sponsorship?

    We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion.

    To learn more, reach out via email at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.au
    or DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset

    Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    23 mins
  • End of Year Reflection | Fashion Business Mindset
    Dec 22 2025

    As we come to the close of 2025, I wanted to pause and share a personal end-of-year reflection with the Fashion Business Mindset community.

    This year has been one of growth, challenge, learning and connection. We’ve shared over 127 episodes, welcomed many new listeners, and continued to have honest conversations about what it really takes to build, lead and sustain a fashion business in a changing market.

    In this solo episode, I reflect on the year that was, share a little more about my own journey, and offer grounded advice as we head into 2026.

    In this episode, I cover:

    • Gratitude for our guests, listeners, team and incredible clients

    • My journey in fashion, consulting and education

    • Lessons from a recent trek in Nepal and what it taught me about resilience

    • Acknowledging the challenges many brands are facing right now

    • Why protecting margins and strengthening foundations matters more than ever

    • Practical guidance for approaching 2026 with clarity and confidence

    • How to seek support if you’re ready for your next phase of growth

    This episode is for founders, leaders and teams who want to reset, refocus and move forward with intention.

    Thank you for being part of Fashion Business Mindset. I’m so grateful for this community and excited for what’s ahead.

    ______

    Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026
    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
    Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
    Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

    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

    Let's do this together,

    Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    9 mins
  • Celebrating 40 Years of Motto — Lessons in Longevity & Reinvention
    Dec 10 2025
    As we near the end of our 2025 season of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m excited to share a truly meaningful milestone — 40 years of Motto, a long-standing Australian fashion brand that continues to evolve, reinvent and inspire. In this episode, I’m joined by Faye Browne and Lauren French, the mother–daughter duo behind Motto, who have built one of the most resilient and community-driven fashion businesses in Australia. Faye began her journey as a fashion buyer before launching Motto with her husband John, driven by a passion for empowering women and celebrating individuality. Today, at 70, Faye remains a vibrant force — leading with authenticity, curiosity and a fierce commitment to helping women feel fabulous in their own skin. Lauren joined the business in 2007 and spearheaded Motto’s transition from traditional retail to a thriving eCommerce and content-driven brand. As CEO and mum of young children, she has redefined modern leadership — building a sophisticated marketing engine, embracing digital storytelling, and growing an engaged community through daily LIVE try-ons. During our conversation, we dive into: The origin story — how Motto began and the early lessons that shaped the brand Digital reinvention — Lauren’s pivot from bricks-and-mortar to eCommerce before the industry was ready Hybrid retail — balancing online growth with the role of physical stores The power of community — why Motto’s LIVE try-ons became a phenomenon and a conversion machine Intergenerational leadership — navigating roles, decision-making and shared vision Who the Motto woman is today — and how she has evolved Longevity in fashion — the mindsets, product strategy and courage required to stay relevant for four decades Authenticity & empowerment — Faye and Lauren’s personal practices, leadership philosophies and approach to style What’s next — the future of Motto as it steps into its fifth decade This conversation is packed with wisdom for founders, leaders and anyone building a brand designed to last. Tune in to hear the story behind 40 years of reinvention, resilience and community — from two women who continue to shape the Australian fashion landscape in their own bold and brilliant way. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. You can connect with Motto at: Web: Women's Boutique Clothing Store Online | Motto Fashions Instagram: Motto | Womens Fashion Australia (@mottofashions) • Instagram profile YouTube: mottofashions ______________ 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 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 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 1 min
  • Growth, eCommerce and AI in Fashion | Global Sourcing Expo Seminar 2025
    Dec 2 2025

    This episode is our LIVE recording from the Melbourne Global Sourcing Expo Seminar Series.

    While the audio is not usual studio quality, the content of this dynamic conversation was too good not to share!

    This conversation brings together three industry leaders: Elizabeth (Fashion Equipped), Kelly Slessor (The Ecommerce Tribe, Tribe Gen AI), and Christina Exie (Stacked Studio) to share their perspectives on the strategies shaping the future of fashion and lifestyle brands.

    The discussion spans sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI, blending Elizabeth’s decades of strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience.

    Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, you’ll take away actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market.

    You can download the freebies offered to the live audience here:

    Navigating the Sourcing Expo Checklist & Free Mini Courses (Elizabeth)

    Join Stacked Studio Free Membership (Christina)

    Win a Copy or Pre-Order AI for eCommerce Book (Kelly)

    ____

    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

    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

    Connect with us:
    Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
    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 5 mins
  • 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