In this episode, we unpack one of the most significant shifts in beauty M&A: the rapid rise of private equity. 

Joining us is Tina Henry, founder of CXT Investments and one of the most respected voices in early-stage consumer investing. 

We discuss:

✨ What makes a “good” early-stage beauty deal today

📦 Which categories + models are best positioned for PE exits

🚫 Common mistakes investors still make

📉 How valuations could shift going forward

A must-listen for anyone navigating beauty, investing, or the changing face of consumer M&A.

Join us as Emily Austen, founder and CEO of London-based PR agency EMERGE, shares how she built a thriving firm at just 22 and helped shape some of the world’s most exciting brands.

In this episode, Emily explores the evolution of PR in a digital age, the power of storytelling, and why quality engagement matters more than vanity metrics. She also shares her take on the role of AI in PR, and tips for starting and scaling a brand in today’s fast-paced world. You don’t want to miss it!

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Find out more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠Emily Austen⁠

Get a copy of her book SMARTER

Find out more about the host, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Gemma Monclús

Join us as Nicola Gunby, founder of CLIQ, shares how she’s transforming the way we connect by building a platform that bridges online and offline communities. CLIQ allows individuals to interact and join interest-based clubs, fostering real connections in a digital age. In this episode, Nicola discusses the power of community-driven events, how brands use the app to deepen engagement, and the evolving roles of influencers and community members in marketing. She also reveals how CLIQ grew its user base organically and her approach to securing funding while staying true to her mission. This episode is packed with valuable insights on the future of community and connection—don’t miss it!

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Find out more about ⁠⁠⁠Nicola Gunby

Find out more about CLIQ

Find out more about the host, ⁠⁠⁠Gemma Monclús

Join us as Dulma, the powerhouse behind TikTok’s B School and host of Influence FM podcast, unpacks her journey into becoming a go-to voice in DTC and brand strategy. From the changing rules of social media and personal branding to the resurgence of newsletters like Substack, Dulma offers a fresh take on what’s driving the future of consumer brands. We dive into her thoughts on the "quiet luxury" trend, how emerging brands can outmaneuver giants like Nike, and what’s next for celebrity-led businesses. Plus, Dulma gets real about the personal growth practices that have fueled her success and how she stays true to her mission, even when it’s time to pivot. This episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

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Find out more about ⁠⁠Dulma Altan

Find out more about the host, ⁠⁠Gemma Monclús

Join us as Jake Browne, co-founder of Retrograde and former co-founder of Peblo, shares the journey behind his tech ventures. Jake takes us through the origins of Peblo, how its vision evolved, and the process leading up to its exit. We also explore the lessons he's carried into his new venture, Retrograde, an AI-powered platform designed to streamline brand deals for content creators. Jake explains why now is the right time to launch Retrograde, the ideal creator it serves, and how the platform can streamline their work.

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Find out more about ⁠Jake Browne

Find out more about ⁠Retrograde

Find out more about the host, ⁠Gemma Monclús

Join us as Vanessa Mace, co-founder of Bessette, reveals the story behind her pioneering online fashion sample sale platform. Discover how Bessette fills a market gap, curates its inventory, and how they navigate relationships with online retailers.

Vanessa discusses the challenges Bessette has faced, shifting consumer preferences, and the role of logos in fashion.

Tune in to learn how Bessette tackles overproduction, and hear Vanessa’s vision for the brand’s future.

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Find out more about Vanessa Mace
Find out more about Bessette
Find out more about the host, Gemma Monclús

Join us as Jing Zhang, Editor-in-Chief of Jing Daily, shares her expert insights on the future of Chinese consumer behavior.

We discuss key trends in the beauty and fashion sectors, the rise of Chinese e-commerce platforms, and the shifting dynamics of luxury sales. Jing also explores generational differences among Chinese consumers, the challenges for international brands entering China, and the growing influence of women in spending. 

Tune in for a concise overview of the trends shaping China’s market and what they mean for global brands. 

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Find out more about ⁠⁠Jing Zhang

Find out more about ⁠⁠Jing Daily

Find out more about the host, ⁠⁠Gemma Monclús