From a kitchen table in Brisbane to a global online fashion movement — this is the story of Black Milk Clothing.

In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), host James H. Stewart sits down with Jackie Kruger, CEO of Black Milk Clothing, the cult Australian label known for its bold designs, product range diversity, and fiercely loyal community of Sharkies.

Jackie shares how she stepped into the CEO role following the tragic passing of founder James “jL” Lillis, and what it takes to balance creativity, commercial discipline, and community trust in a brand built on authenticity. Together, they unpack:

• How Black Milk grew from James Lillis’s home sewing machine to an international e-commerce force
• The emotional and operational realities of leading through grief and transition
• How community and connection fuel long-term brand loyalty
• The leadership, culture and resilience lessons that apply to founders, executives and team leaders alike

This conversation is a powerful look at creativity, courage, and the soul of a brand — and what it takes to carry that forward.

🎧 Listen now on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Connect with James:

🌐 Website: https://jameshstewart.com

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, producers, or any affiliated organisations. The content is provided for general information and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional, financial, or business advice. Listeners should conduct their own research or seek independent professional guidance before acting on any information discussed.

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