Fashion To Farmer

In this last episode of Season One of Fashion to Farmer, Vanessa Bell sits down with Angela Foong, co-founder of the slow fashion brand High Tea with Mrs Woo, a creative collaboration with her sisters, Rowena and Juliana. Established in 2004, High Tea with Mrs Woo is celebrated for its timeless, eloquent designs and its strong commitment to sustainability and ethical production.

Angela shares her journey in slow fashion, emphasising the importance of creating garments with longevity, passing down skills, and fostering a deep connection between fashion and storytelling. The conversation delves into how High Tea with Mrs Woo maintains a slow fashion model in a fast-paced, trend-driven industry, and the challenges they face in promoting sustainability.

Key Takeaways:

• Longevity and Storytelling: The importance of creating garments with a lasting presence, each piece telling its own story.
• Passing Down Skills: Storytelling and craftsmanship are core to the brand’s philosophy, both within their family and the community.
• Unique Silhouettes: Traditional tailoring methods paired with experimentation result in distinctive designs.
• Sustainable Practices: Designing with the end in mind, mending garments, and creating a secondhand marketplace are essential to their practice.
• Ethical Partnerships: Long-term relationships with suppliers who share their values are a priority.
• Challenges in Slow Fashion: Maintaining slow fashion in a fast-paced industry is difficult but vital for creating meaningful change.
• Education and Awareness: Shifting consumer mindset towards sustainability is key to driving the slow fashion movement.
• Slow Wearing Well Initiatives: Engagement through workshops, wardrobe edits, and community events can help promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
• Future of Slow Fashion: Angela’s vision includes innovations like an irresponsibility tax to level the playing field and reward sustainable practices.

Listeners can connect with High Tea with Mrs Woo via:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram @highteawithmrswoo
• YouTube

If you’d like a copy of Vanessa Bell’s book Self-Care Craft, please email [email protected].

If you'd like to read the Micro But Mighty Report you can do so here.

Thank you for tuning in for our very first season of Fashion To Farmer!

Be sure to subscribe and leave a lovely review to stay updated on more inspiring conversations.

If you'd like to reach out to Vanessa you can so via DM @fashiontofarmer or [email protected] if you would like to share your story on the show.

Until next season, bye for now. 🐏✨

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

In today’s Fashion To Farmer episode, we’re thrilled to be joined by Nicole Bennett, the founder of Sustainable Style School, an innovative platform where she empowers individuals to blend their personal style with sustainability.

Nicole Bennett’s journey into the world of sustainable fashion is nothing short of inspiring. With a background as an ESG Manager and a fierce advocate against greenwashing, Nicole has worked with some of the most recognised brands in the fashion industry, deeply shaping her approach to authentic sustainability.

At Sustainable Style School, Nicole helps people discover their true style while making conscious choices aligning with their values. She challenges the fast fashion industry by promoting thoughtful, sustainable practices, emphasising the creation of wardrobes reflecting our evolving lifestyles and body shapes.

Nicole also uses her influential social presence to shift the conversation from ethical fashion to sustainable style. She shares daily tips and hacks to guide those on their sustainable style journey, making it accessible and empowering.

In this episode, we delve into Nicole’s insights on curating a wardrobe supporting sustainability while remaining true to who we are.

Here’s what we cover:

• The importance of slowing down consumption and buying with intention.
• Holding brands accountable for their practices and making informed choices.
• Detoxing from trends to focus on cultivating a personal style reflecting your authentic self.
• How to experiment with existing wardrobe pieces to create fresh looks.
• The significance of expressing self-worth and identity through style.

Giveaway:

Nicole has kindly gifted our audience a free seasonal guide to calibrating your style! You can access it here:

Links:

• Sustainable Style School
• Instagram

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Leanne Savage, founder of Acala Stem, is a designer with over 20 years experience and a lifelong appreciation for fine textiles. Her brand, Acala Stem, pioneers a new standard of holistic luxury; sophistication without compromise, driven by core values of empathy and environmental impact.

Acala Stem is a luxury product vs being a luxury brand; it’s a global leader in ethical luxury, recognised as the Global Winners of the Prestigious 'Duchess of York Special Award'. The brand is setting new standards by bridging opulence with advocacy. At the heart of Acala Stem’s offering is Pure Lotus Silk, a sustainable and luxurious fabric made from the microfibre inside a lotus flower stem, sourced directly from Lotus farms.

Leanne’s journey began with a life-changing experience while volunteering as an English teacher in Cambodia, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by women in the garment industry. This experience inspired her to create Acala Stem, a brand that not only produces luxurious, sustainable textiles but also empowers women in Cambodia by providing fair wages, flexible working conditions, and a path to financial independence.

In this episode, Leanne shares the incredible story behind Acala Stem, from the challenges of launching to finding the right target market and conveying a message of holistic luxury. We dive deep into the significant issues facing women in the garment industry, particularly in Cambodia, and the impact these issues have on their children.

Leanne also introduces us to the revolutionary Lotus Silk and discusses the clinical testing underway to prove the health benefits of this miracle fibre. Her passion for creating a positive social impact and educating consumers about the damaging effects of mass production in the fashion industry is truly inspiring.

We also discuss how Acala Stem is dismantling the classism in luxury, promoting self-love and approval, and how Leanne is advocating for laws to regulate the fashion industry and protect the environment.

Tune in to discover how Leanne is setting a new standard in sustainable fashion, proving that luxury and purpose can coexist beautifully.

Key Takeaways:

• Leanne’s journey from a designer to founding Acala Stem.
• The story behind Lotus Silk and its luxurious, sustainable properties.
• The challenges of launching a brand with a strong ethical foundation.
• The importance of advocacy and community in driving positive change.
• How Acala Stem is empowering women in Cambodia and addressing issues in the garment industry.
• The need for regulatory laws in the fashion industry to protect the people and environment.

Connect with Acala Stem:

• Website
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Today, we are joined by Ainsley Simpson, a visionary leader making a profound impact on the future of fashion in Australia.

About Our Guest: Ainsley Simpson

Ainsley Simpson is the CEO of Seamless, Australia’s pioneering clothing product stewardship scheme. Seamless is an independent, not-for-profit organisation holding fashion and clothing brands accountable for the entire lifecycle of their garments, from design to disposal. With a mission to make Australian fashion truly circular by 2030, Seamless is tackling the immense challenge of reducing the 200,000 tonnes of clothing waste that end up in Australian landfills each year.

The Need for Seamless

The statistics speak for themselves. Each year, over 1.4 billion new garments are manufactured or imported into Australia, with the average Australian purchasing 56 new items annually. Most of these garments are made from non-renewable materials, and more than half end up in landfills, contributing to a staggering carbon footprint of 13 million tonnes per year. Seamless aims to address this crisis by creating a circular economy in the fashion industry.

Origins of Seamless

Seamless was born from a collaboration led by the Australian Fashion Council (AFC), in partnership with Charitable Recycling Australia, Queensland University of Technology, Sustainable Resource Use, and WRAP UK. While the scheme design was spearheaded by this consortium, Seamless now operates as a standalone entity, poised to drive systematic, transformational change across the entire clothing lifecycle.

Seamless: A World First

Seamless is the world's first circular product stewardship scheme, administered by Clothing Stewardship Australia. The scheme works with brands and stakeholders to prioritise nature and promote responsible clothing choices, enjoyment, and recycling. Funding for Seamless comes from a per-garment levy contributed by brands that join as members.

Key Priorities

• Building a Collective: Seamless is focused on bringing together a collective of brands and supply chain partners to drive change.
• Setting Baseline Data: Establishing baseline data metrics is crucial for measuring progress and impact.
• Forming Partnerships: Seamless aims to create strong partnerships across the industry to support its goals.
• Circular Design Practices: Developing circular design practices and eco-modulated criteria to incentivise sustainable fashion design is a top priority.
• Resilient Circular Economy: The ultimate goal is to build a resilient circular economy that prioritises the environment, people, and economic well-being.

Connect with Seamless:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Website

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Cotton Australia with Brooke Summers and Ashley Hollis

• Guests : Brooke Summers and Ashley Hollis from Cotton Australia
• Discussion : The role of Cotton Australia in promoting sustainable cotton farming and the broader impact on the fashion industry.

Guest Backgrounds

• Brooke Summers :
• Leader in the Australian cotton industry.
• Experience: 30 years in strategic communication, marketing, and stakeholder engagement.
• Recognised with a Churchill Fellowship in Urban Conservation and Australian Rural Leadership Program graduate.
• Advocate for natural fibres and Australia’s cotton farmers.
• Ashley Hollis :
• Brand Relationship Manager at Cotton Australia.
• Experience: 20 years in retail, fashion, and education.
• Expertise in stakeholder engagement and fostering industry collaborations.
• Influencer of the next generation in the cotton and wool industry.

Sustainability in Cotton Farming

• Key Achievements :
• 97% reduction in pesticide use.
• 50% reduction in water consumption.
• Enhanced land efficiency.
• Partnerships with iconic Australian brands such as Country Road.
• Environmental Assessments :
• Regular independent assessments to identify improvement areas.
• Focus on transparency, waste management, and reporting progress.

Collaboration and Innovation

• Collaboration :
• Essential partnerships with brands, Government, and other industries.
• Emphasis on connecting farmers with brands and consumers.
• Innovation :
• Advances in water efficiency, precision agriculture, and integrated pest management.
• Importance of continuous improvement and investment in R&D.

Education and Consumer Awareness

• Consumer Education :
• Vital for promoting Australian cotton and sustainable practices.
• Encouragement for purchasing natural and recycled fibres.
• Camp Cotton Initiative :
• Educates brands about the Australian cotton industry and its sustainability efforts.

Future Vision

• Sustainability Roadmap :
• Focus areas: Traceability, sustainable certified cotton, human rights, data, and marketing.
• Global Collaboration :
• Collaboration across agricultural sectors and global cotton industries.
• Private Equity Opportunities :
• Investment potential in the agricultural industry, focusing on sustainability.

Closing Thoughts

• The importance of rewarding farmers for sustainable practices.
• The role of technology and innovation in achieving sustainability goals.
• Cotton Australia's commitment to leading the charge in sustainable fashion and farming.

Connect with Cotton Australia :

• Instagram
• YouTube
• Facebook
• Twitter
• LinkedIn
• Website

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

In this episode of Fashion To Farmer, we sit down with Jane Robertson, the founder of Millwoods Shoes, to explore her journey in creating practical yet stylish footwear for busy Australian women.

Drawing inspiration from the rich colours and textures of the Australian landscape, Jane has built a brand that prioritises timeless, durable designs over throwaway fashion.

Throughout the conversation, Jane shares the unique challenges of balancing her thriving shoe business with life on a working farm. She delves into the complexities of sourcing and manufacturing shoes sustainably, emphasising the importance of conscious consumer choices and ethical practices in the fashion industry.

Listeners will gain insight into Jane’s philosophy of "casual distinction," which aims to elevate everyday outfits with high-quality, practical shoes. She also discusses the importance of taking care of leather products to ensure their longevity and comfort.

Additionally, Jane and I touch on the difficulties small businesses face in exporting and importing goods, highlighting the need for government support. As an entrepreneur in the sustainable fashion space, she underscores the importance of anchoring oneself in values and building a strong support network.

Jane’s story is an inspiring example of mindful shopping—buying what is needed and choosing the best available quality. Join us for this insightful discussion on the future vision for Millwoods Shoes and the broader impact of ethical fashion.

Key Takeaways:

• Millwoods Shoes focuses on creating timeless, durable designs inspired by the Australian landscape.
• Balancing a shoe business with farm life presents unique challenges.
• Sourcing and manufacturing shoes sustainably is a complex but essential process.
• Conscious consumer choices are crucial for promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry.
• The philosophy of "casual distinction" elevates everyday outfits with high-quality shoes.
• Proper care of leather products is essential for their longevity and comfort.
• Small businesses face significant challenges in exporting and importing goods and require government support.
• Anchoring oneself in values and building a support network is vital for entrepreneurs in sustainable fashion.
• Mindful shopping means buying only what is needed and choosing the best available quality.

Shout out to BFTB Buy From The Bush

Connect with Millwoods:

• Instagram 
• Facebook
• Website

Please follow, rate and leave a lovely review! Your support means the world 🌍 

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Today, I am thrilled to introduce a guest who truly embodies the values of ethical production and sustainability in fashion - Alison Lennard, the design director and owner of Philosophy Australia.

Alison has been at the helm of Philosophy Australia, a Sydney-based women's fashion design house, for over two decades. With a rich background in the fashion industry, including roles at prestigious UK retailers, Alison has brought a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to sustainability and ethical practices to her brand.

Philosophy Australia is renowned for its timelessly stylish statement womenswear, proudly designed and produced entirely in Australia. Every step of their process, from design to dispatch, reflects their dedication to quality, sustainability, and supporting local craftsmanship.

Today, we'll delve into Alison's inspiring journey, her vision for Philosophy Australia, and her insights into the future of sustainable fashion. We'll explore how she maintains a balance between staying true to her brand's ethos and adapting to ever-evolving fashion trends. Alison's story is one of passion, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on the Australian fashion industry.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Alison's Journey:

   • Her background in the fashion industry.
   • The founding and evolution of Philosophy Australia.
   • Key influences and inspirations.

2. Brand Values and Practices:

   • Philosophy Australia's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
   • The importance of local production and supporting Australian craftsmanship.
   • Emphasis on quality, transparency, and customer loyalty.

3. Challenges and Rewards:

   • Navigating the challenges of maintaining ethical and sustainable practices.
   • Balancing increased costs and changing retail landscapes.
   • The rewards of customer loyalty and community support.

4. Vision and Future Goals:

   • Alison's vision for the future of Philosophy Australia.
   • Upcoming initiatives like Sprinkling Kindness and the Digital Cheer Squad.
   • Advice for consumers on making conscious decisions and supporting local businesses.

5. Philosophy Australia's Core Values:

   • Kindness as the number one core value.
   • Ensuring fair pay, good working conditions, and a healthy work-life balance for staff and contractors.
   • Minimising waste, using recyclable packaging, and sourcing fabrics from Australian wholesalers.

6. Design Philosophy:

   • Focus on easy wear, easy care, wear anywhere garments.
   • Emphasis on comfort, durability, and longevity.

7. Collaborative and Family-like Environment:

   • Fostering a supportive and passionate team culture.
   • Building strong relationships with suppliers and contractors.

Takeaways:

• The importance of kindness in every business interaction.
• The value of local production and supporting small businesses.
• How ethical production and sustainability can drive customer loyalty.
• Alison's advice for a sustainable future in fashion: know your value, make conscious choices, support local businesses, and wash clothes in cold water.

Join us for this inspiring conversation with Alison Lennard as we explore the intersection of fashion, sustainability, and ethical production. Discover how Philosophy Australia is leading the way in creating beautiful, sustainable womenswear that supports local craftsmanship and promotes a kinder, more conscious approach to fashion.

Connect with Alison:

Website: https://www.philosophyaustralia.com.au/

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philosophyaustraliafashion/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philosophy-australia/posts/?feedView=all

We mention The Australian Fashion Council. 

Thank you for tuning in to Fashion To Farmer. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a lovely review. See you in the next episode! 🐏✨

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Today, we are thrilled to introduce a remarkable guest whose work embodies our mission to tackle fashion excess and celebrate sustainable fashion. Anthony Chesler, the CEO of Thread Together, joins us to share his insights and the impactful work his organisation is doing.

Thread Together is dedicated to addressing the issue of fashion excess by collecting end-of-line brand new stock from fashion retailers and redistributing it to people in need. By keeping clothing in circulation and out of landfills, they are making significant strides in both social and environmental realms.

Anthony's leadership has been instrumental in driving this mission forward, ensuring fashion waste is minimised and that those in need have access to essential clothing. Today, we will highlight his inspiring work and discuss how, together, we can promote ethical fashion and support those in need.

About Thread Together

Thread Together is an organisation tackling fashion excess and clothing insecurity by redistributing new clothing to those in need. The organisation was founded in 2012 and has since grown to become Australia's most ethical response to fashion excess. Thread Together works with over 2,000 fashion brands and retailers who donate their excess clothing. The clothing is then distributed to registered charities and welfare agencies across the country through various channels, including an online store, mobile wardrobes, clothing hubs, and wardrobe services in women's shelters.

Key Initiatives

• Online Store: Thread Together operates an online store where registered charities can access clothing for their clients.
• Mobile Wardrobes: Bringing clothing directly to communities in need, mobile wardrobes make it easier for people to receive essential items.
• Clothing Hubs: Established hubs where individuals can select clothing in a dignified manner.
• Women's Shelters: Providing wardrobe services in shelters to support women in vulnerable situations.

Volunteer Support

The organisation relies on the support of volunteers who contribute their time and skills to help sort, pack, and distribute the clothing. Volunteers are the backbone of Thread Together's operations, ensuring that clothing reaches those who need it most efficiently and effectively.

Future Goals

Thread Together aims to scale up its operations, de-risk its dependency on traditional philanthropy, implement circular solutions to fashion excess, and advocate for reduced overproduction. The organisation believes that increased accountability and visibility of aged inventory in the fashion industry can lead to positive change.

Takeaways

• Redistributing New Clothing: Thread Together redistributes new clothing to those in need, tackling fashion excess and clothing insecurity.
• Collaborations: The organisation works with over 2,000 fashion brands and retailers who donate their excess clothing.
• Distribution Channels: Clothing is distributed through various channels, including an online store, mobile wardrobes, clothing hubs, and wardrobe services in women's shelters.
• Volunteer Role: Volunteers play a crucial role in sorting, packing, and distributing the clothing.
• Future Plans: Thread Together aims to scale up its operations, reduce dependency on traditional philanthropy, implement circular solutions to fashion excess, and advocate for reduced overproduction.

Connect with Thread Together:

Website: https://threadtogether.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThreadTogether/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thread_together/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thread-together/

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Today we welcome Andrew Lindner from Lindner Quality Socks to the Fashion To Farmer podcast. Andrew is a 10th generation sock maker, continuing a remarkable family tradition that began nearly 300 years ago in Thalheim, near Chemnitz, Germany. Using vintage machinery brought to Australia by his parents, Wilfred and Gisela, Andrew expertly crafts high-quality Merino wool socks in the picturesque town of Crookwell, NSW.

Lindner Socks is renowned for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Each pair of socks is individually separated and hand-finished, ensuring an unparalleled level of care and attention to detail. The company prides itself on using natural fibres including Merino wool and hemp, to create durable, comfortable socks that are as kind to the environment as they are to your feet.

Join us as we delve into the rich history of Lindner Socks, explore the unique properties of Merino wool, and learn how this family-run business continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. Andrew will share insights into their sustainable practices, community involvement and the passion that drives them to create exceptional products.

In this episode, Andrew Lindner, owner of Lindner Socks, shares the history and values of his family-run business. He discusses the influence of YouTube on his personal growth and the challenges of running a traditional sock-making business in a modern world. Andrew emphasises the importance of perseverance and customer engagement, as well as the benefits of using sustainable materials like Merino wool and hemp. He also highlights the role of community support and the need for businesses to make sustainable choices. Andrew envisions the future of Lindner Socks as a balance between tradition and innovation, with a focus on customer satisfaction and sustainability.

Takeaways:

• Perseverance and a drive for continuous learning are key to personal and business growth.
• Using sustainable materials like Merino wool and hemp can provide numerous benefits, including moisture-wicking, insulation, and reduced environmental impact.
• Engaging with customers directly and addressing their needs and concerns is crucial for building strong relationships.
• Balancing tradition and innovation is essential for the long-term success of a business.
• Community support and involvement play a significant role in the growth and sustainability of a business.

Connect with Andrew:

• Website: https://lindnersocks.com.au/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindnersocks/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindnerqualitysocks
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBYLQXzSHRIz-GH4biYKuZA
• Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lindnersocks

Visiting Lindner Sock Shop and Factory:

Lindner Sock Shop and Factory is located at 6 Goulburn Street, Crookwell NSW 2583. It’s less than 3 hours drive from Sydney, 90 minutes from Canberra, and just 30 minutes from Goulburn.

Opening hours are:

• 9.00am-4.30pm Monday to Friday
• 9.30am-12.30pm on Saturdays 
• 10.00am-1.00pm on Sundays

At the Lindner Sock Shop you’ll find an array of socks for every occasion and weather condition. The machines usually run during the week so you can view the socks being made.

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

Subscribe: Help build our community, subscribe and leave a lovely review. ✨

Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.

Today we welcome Jessica Kiely, the visionary Owner and Founder of SENSOR.I.AM, a luxury perfumery dedicated to 100% natural perfumes. Jessica has crafted a business that delights the senses while championing sustainability and ethical practices in the fragrance industry.

SENSOR.I.AM is renowned for its discerning curation process, rejecting 80% of the brands they explore to ensure only the highest quality, chemical-free scents make it to their collection. From natural perfumes to scented candles and bath care products, SENSOR.I.AM offers a complete sensory experience designed to elevate well-being and promote eco-conscious living.

Jessica’s journey into natural perfumery is a testament to her passion for sustainability and her belief in the transformative power of scent. With SENSOR.I.AM, she has bridged the gap between luxury and sustainability, showcasing how exquisite, natural fragrances can be an essential accompaniment to our wardrobes and lifestyles.

Beyond perfumes, SENSOR.I.AM extends its offerings to unique experiences such as perfume classes, parties, premium wellbeing retreats, and corporate team-building events. These initiatives not only enhance the sensory experience but also educate and inspire a broader audience about the importance of natural and sustainable products.

Join us as we delve into Jessica’s entrepreneurial journey, the ethos behind SENSOR.I.AM, and the magic of natural perfumes. 

Key Takeaways:

• Having a morning routine that includes meditation and movement can set a positive tone for the day.
• Our future self or higher self can be the most influential person in our lives, guiding us through intuition and visions.
• SENSOR.I.AM is a luxury perfumery focused on 100% natural perfumes, promoting the health of both self and planet.
• The 10-step curation process for selecting perfumes includes evaluating ingredients, packaging, brand ethos, and customer experience.
• Storytelling plays a crucial role in sustainable fashion, creating connections and adding depth to brands.
• Rejecting 80% of perfumes ensures that only the highest quality and most sustainable options are offered to customers.
• Using natural ingredients in perfumes is important for sustainability.
• Scent has the power to elevate consciousness and well-being.
• Scent can be used for healing and shifting moods.
• SENSOR.I.AM offers a range of additional products, such as scented candles and bath care items.
• SENSOR.I.AM provides perfume classes, parties, retreats, and corporate events.
• Jessica's favourite natural ingredients include vetiver and wattle.
• A more sustainable future in fashion requires brands to take responsibility for the end-to-end lifecycle of their garments.

Connect with Jessica:

• Website: https://sensoriam.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensor.i.am
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sensoriamnaturalperfume
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sensor-i-am-natural-perfume-collective/

Perfumes discussed in this episode:

• "Wild Woud" - Vanessa Megan 
• "Wildflower" - Wyalb

Connect with Vanessa Bell:

Website:  www.vanessa-bell.com

Sign up to the Vanessa Bell Newsletter: Join The Flock

Email:  [email protected]

Instagram: @fashiontofarmer

LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/vjbell/

X: @FashionToFarmer

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Credits:

Host: Vanessa Bell, Eco-Entrepreneur, Sustainability Advocate & Champion of Australian Merino Wool

Producer: Bogdan Bratis, Saspod Productions UK

Fashion To Farmer acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast, the Kamilaroi people of the Kamilaroi Nation in New South Wales, Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We further extend our respect to the people of the Biripi Nation on which we live and work.