Kassia Davis walked away from the family business, New Balance, to launch her own path as a brand founder, CEO, and investor. Today, she’s building a portfolio of product-based businesses including KADA, a sustainable women’s apparel brand, and PF Flyers, the iconic sneaker company. In this episode, Kara and Kassia talk about taking control of your career, the reality of startup life, and why Kassia is betting on herself to build something bigger than a title. They cover team building, fundraising, sustainable fashion, and what it really takes to scale a product business in today’s market. If you're in DTC, dreaming of launching your own brand, or trying to build a career with purpose, this one’s for you.

Chapters:

(00:00:00) How Kassia Davis Took the Leap From New Balance to Start Her Own Brand

(00:05:15) Building KADA and Why Sustainable Apparel Is So Hard to Scale

(00:10:30) Reviving PF Flyers and Growing a Product-Based Brand Portfolio

(00:16:00) The Truth About Hiring, Culture, and Managing Startup Teams

(00:21:00) Balancing Identity, Ambition, and Leading as a Female CEO

(00:27:30) What’s Next for KADA, PF Flyers, and Kassia’s Long-Term Vision

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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