In this episode of Founders and Funders, we sit down with Connor Luke Van Brown, a designer who transitioned from the high-octane world of professional cycling to the intricate craft of technical fashion. Connor shares the "aha moment" in a team van—watching a Givenchy show just minutes before a race—that led him to trade his bike for a career in design.

We explore his journey through UTS School of Design, the reality of funding a career pivot by selling off his cycling gear, and how he leverages his background in animation and 3D software to create his signature "Resembool" collection.

Named after the hometown in Fullmetal Alchemist, the collection represents a "checkpoint" in his journey. From interning at Song for the Mute to receiving unexpected interest from international buyers in Tokyo and London, Connor discusses what it takes to build a brand in the modern fashion landscape and the meticulous process behind his "beaded pleat" textile manipulations.

• Instagram: @connor.lv.brown
• Latest Collection: "Resembool" (UTS Honors Graduate Collection)

• Professional Background: UCI Continental Team Development
• Industry Experience: Song for the Mute (Sydney)
• Education:

In this episode of Founders and Funders, Ray speaks with Valentin Zhmodikov, a Melbourne-based fashion and portrait photographer originally from St. Petersburg, Russia.

Valentin shares how photography became both a creative outlet and a professional path, and what it really takes to move from hobbyist to working photographer. He talks openly about self-doubt, rejection, and the uncertainty that comes with creative careers, especially during periods like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The conversation explores finding your own visual style, why gear matters far less than consistency, and how personal projects help shape a recognisable creative voice. Valentin also reflects on collaboration, trust between photographer and subject, and the emotional vulnerability involved in portrait work.

This episode is for creators navigating long journeys, imperfect progress, and the challenge of staying committed when results aren’t immediate.

Follow Valentin Zhmodikov
Website: https://www.zhmodikov.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zhmodikov/

In this episode of Founders and Funders, Ray interviews Vick, a passionate photographer whose hobby turned into a profession. Vick shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Indonesia to becoming an international photographer, working with models and brands, and attending Paris Fashion Week. He discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of social media in building his brand, and his aspirations for the future.

Follow Vick on Instagram:@vickar.adam

Episode Highlights:

• Photography started as a hobby for Vick and became a profession
• Vick’s work in humanitarian projects led him deeper into photography
• Social media played a crucial role in Vick’s career growth
• Vick’s first paid job came through friends and family support
• Working with models and brands expanded Vick’s portfolio
• His international exposure began in Europe, particularly in Holland
• Paris Fashion Week was a pivotal moment in Vick’s career
• Vick emphasizes the importance of trust in photography
• He advises new photographers to take every opportunity, even pro bono
• Communication is key to balancing personal style with client needs

Topics Covered:

• From hobby to profession: Vick’s photography journey
• Capturing moments: Vick’s path to international photography
• The power of social media in building a photography career
• Vick’s journey from Indonesia to Paris Fashion Week
• Trust and communication as keys to success in photography
• Balancing creative style with client expectations
• Building a photography brand through consistency and connection

Quotes from the Episode:

• “Photography is half of my life.”
• “Social media helped me a lot.”
• “Paris Fashion Week was a big opportunity.”
• “Trust is crucial in photography.”
• “Take every opportunity, even pro bono.”
• “Communication is key with clients.”
• “My style is capturing emotion.”
• “Social media connects me with people.”
• “I love capturing memories.”
• “Photography started as a hobby.”

Special thanks:
Special thanks to Society of Wolves for providing the beautiful Oxford shirt worn by Ray in this episode.
Follow them on Instagram:@society.of.wolves