Today’s guest is my friend and amazing entrepreneur, Ali Hynek. She is the CEO and founder of Nena & Co, the “bohemian couture” fashion brand that focuses on handbags and textiles with a strong focus on design and marketing.  Nena & Co. celebrates the unique heritage and talents of artisans around the world working in countries such as Guatemala, Mexico, Ghana, Morocco, and the USA. Responsible growth and strong community are an integral part of their principles. They live by the tagline, Wearing Values. Nena & Co.'s success has allowed Ali to better the lives of hundreds of artisans and their families by providing a fair living wage, access to medical services, and offering opportunities for education.

 

Part of celebrating artisan's heritage is by creating a connection between them and the consumer. The driving force behind Nena & Co.’s marketing, her visual storytelling brings artisan’s stories straight to the consumer. It is overwhelmingly successful. In five years, Nena & Co. communities have formed around the world all on their own. That is thanks to a commitment to the values she finds important. As she says, don’t be afraid to be different. To create a great company, it can be unique and a little weird but not so far that you are all alone.

 

It's not an easy task, but if you can get focused and clear about what you want to bring to the world, as Ali has, you will succeed. Today’s podcast with Ali is a shining example of that. You wouldn’t think the fashion and technology industries could teach one another anything, but good things come from unexpected places. Be sure to watch today’s podcast and execute the wisdom Ali shares. I know everyone on my marketing team will be.