In this episode of Skale Up, hosts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Jess Blanch, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of RUSSH Magazine, to explore what it really means to scale a creative business with intention.

From growing up in a small country town to leading one of Australia’s most globally respected independent media titles, Jess shares how mission-led growth, community trust, and cultural relevance have shaped RUSSH over more than a decade. Known for celebrating creativity over celebrity, RUSSH has carved out a powerful niche (and scale) by staying deeply connected to its audience, partners, and purpose

Inside the Episode

* Jess’s unconventional journey into fashion, media, and luxury (and why it still surprises her)

* How growing up regional shaped her long-term approach to business and sustainability

* Why listening deeply to readers and creative communities has guided RUSSH’s evolution

* Rethinking “balance” in business: embracing ebbs, flows, and personal resilience

* Why meaningful scale matters more than rapid growth or external expectations

* The power of niche: how RUSSH retained its creative focus while expanding reach

* RUSSH’s distinctive stance on celebrity. And why artists, not fame, lead the conversation

* How data and intuition work together in a modern publishing business

* Driving conversion through trust, storytelling, events, and community-led partnerships

* The Literary Showcase initiative and championing under-recognised Australian writers

* What’s next for RUSSH: expanding beyond media, growing global communities, and scaling with intention

Why Listen?

If you’re a founder, leader, or working in media, fashion, luxury, or culture, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on scaling without losing soul. Jess’s approach shows how clarity of mission, respect for community, and creative conviction can unlock sustainable growth, even in a fast-changing landscape.

Connect with Us

Instagram: @skale_australiaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/Email: [email protected]Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, Australia’s luxury business experts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Jessica Bronzino, General Manager of Make Up For Ever, to explore what it takes to scale a beauty business in Australia today.

With over 15 years in luxury, including senior roles at Christian Dior within LVMH, Jess shares insights on leadership, data-led decision-making, product performance, talent strategy, and the shifting dynamics redefining beauty and luxury in 2026.

Inside the Episode:

* From heritage luxury to creative-led brands, how Jess transitioned from Dior at LVMH to leading Make Up For Ever in Australia

* Why Make Up For Ever prioritises performance over speed, and how its global pro-artist collective builds credibility

* The hidden risks of regional assortment decisions, and why Australian consumers require truly local strategy

* What balance really looks like in senior leadership, productivity, wellness, and focusing on high-impact decisions

* Why “hire slow, fire fast” protects culture and growth, particularly in executive teams

* How data, authenticity, and AI are reshaping beauty, luxury, and go-to-market strategies for 2026

Why Listen?

If you are a founder, leader, or operator in beauty, luxury, or retail, this episode offers a clear-eyed perspective on how to scale with intention. Jess Bronzino shares practical leadership lessons from inside global beauty organisations, blending discipline, creativity, and data to navigate growth in an increasingly complex market.

About Skale Up

Skale Up is hosted by Sydney-based luxury business experts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux. Each episode brings together leaders from luxury, beauty, fashion, and beyond to unpack what it really takes to build, grow, and scale brands in Australia.

Connect with Us

Instagram: @skale_australiaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/Email: [email protected]Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this Season 2 episode of Skale Up, hosts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Liz Walker, Founder of Doyen PR, to unpack what it truly means to scale with intention in today’s fast-moving luxury and lifestyle landscape.

With over 20 years of experience working across global powerhouses including Gucci and heritage Maisons under the Richemont portfolio, Liz brings a rare blend of strategic discipline and creative intuition. From advising brands with centuries of craftsmanship to building her own boutique communications agency in Australia, Liz shares the frameworks, mindset shifts, and personal practices that underpin sustainable growth.

Inside the episode:

* What working across radically different brands — from hand-crafted Purdey shotguns to global luxury fashion — taught her about strategic clarity

* Why every decision must ladder back to qualitative and quantitative objectives

* How listening closely to clients reshaped Doyen PR’s service model into a more cohesive, education-led approach

* The importance of a clear “North Star” in cutting through fragmented marketing tactics

* What balance really looks like in the PR industry — and why protecting personal energy is non-negotiable

* Why brands must resist clickbait culture and stay anchored in authenticity

* Liz’s advice for founders: scale with intention, define your USP, and don’t build alone

* The next frontier for Doyen PR, including international expansion across the UK, US, and Middle East

* A candid discussion on storytelling: emotional connection, clarity of message, and deeply understanding your audience

Why Listen?

If you’re a founder, leader, or working in luxury, lifestyle, or brand communications, this episode offers a grounded and strategic lens on scaling with intention. Liz’s insights cut through industry hype, reminding us that sustainable growth starts with clarity and authenticity.

Connect with us:

Instagram: @skale_australiaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/Email: [email protected]Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, hosts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Viola Raikhel, one of the most influential figures in the global arts and culture ecosystem.

Viola is a leading international arts executive, curator, and strategic advisor to private banks, governments, family offices, and luxury brands. She is also the author of two published books, Iran Modern: The Forgotten Collection and Spies Like Us: Her License to Kill and Arts Editor at T Magazine Australia.

In this conversation, we explore how the art world intersects with finance, luxury, and long-term value creation and the realities of scaling in an unregulated, passion-led industry.

Inside the Episode

* From law to the arts: how Viola forged an unconventional global career

* Founding 1858 and building an independent, impartial art advisory business working with private banks, family offices, and global collectors

* Why the art world remains unregulated — and why that matters

* Art as an alternative asset class alongside traditional investments

* Why the same due diligence applied to finance should apply to art

* Balancing passion, emotion, and strategy when acquiring artworks

* Under-promise, over-deliver: building trust through transparency and communication

* The importance of relationships, reputation, and long-term value

* Why collaboration and connection are central to scaling impact

* AI, crypto, and digital tools: curiosity, not disruption (yet)

* Educating the next generation of collectors and investors

* Arts and culture as a powerful soft power tool for governments

* Scaling from advising individuals and brands to shaping cities, countries, and cultural ecosystems

Why Listen?

If you’re a founder, leader, or working across luxury, arts, culture, finance, or retail, this episode offers a rare look inside the business of art and alternative assets. Viola shares how to scale a passion-led business with rigour, integrity, and long-term thinking: blending strategy, relationships, and cultural insight for anyone navigating growth in complex, unregulated markets.

Connect with Us

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, Sydney-based Luxury Business Experts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Shamini Rajarethnam, the powerhouse CEO behind Australia’s cult luxury skincare brand RATIONALE. From starting on the shop floor to leading a global business, Shamini shares the realities of leadership, scaling with discipline, and building a brand that endures in an industry obsessed with “what’s new.”

Inside the Episode

* How Shamini grew RATIONALE from a team of 7 to 170+

* Why focus—not expansion—is the key to scaling a luxury business

* The most underrated growth strategy? Knowing when to pull back and rebuild your foundations before scaling again

* The fine balance between listening to customers and leading with vision

* Why RATIONALE brought manufacturing in-house (and what it unlocked)

* The power of unreasonable hospitality and small gestures in luxury retail

* Stripping back KPIs so teams can focus on true client care

* What “balance” really means as a CEO and mother of three

* The next frontier for RATIONALE: returning to the brand’s scientific and experiential roots

Why Listen?

If you’re a founder, leader, or working in beauty, luxury, or retail, this episode offers an unfiltered look at how to scale with intention. Shamini’s approach blends discipline, humanity, and bold decision-making—essential listening for anyone navigating growth.

Connect with Us

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

It’s the end of Season 1 of Skale Up (we can’t believe it either). In this special finale, your hosts, Sydney-based luxury business experts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux, put each other in the hot seat with a series of surprise questions about luxury, entrepreneurship, and what it takes to grow a business in Australia.

Expect candid reflections, a few confessions, and some unexpected answers as we cover:

* Misconceptions about the Australian luxury market

* Balancing exclusivity with accessibility in brand strategy

* Which international luxury brands get it right in Australia

* Redefining success and navigating self-doubt as entrepreneurs

* Balancing motherhood, ambition, and the juggle of modern life

* The power of partnership and what we’re most proud of this season

* Our biggest sources of inspiration (and industry “girl crushes”)

This episode is all about honesty, growth, and celebrating the journey so far. It’s been a season of insights, vulnerability, and building community in the luxury business space—and this finale brings it all together.

We’re taking a short 8-week break, but we’ll be back for Season 2 with even more stories, guests, and fresh perspectives on scaling in the luxury industry.

We can’t wait to show you what we have in store for the next season. In the meantime, connect with us to stay in the know!

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

* Sign up for our monthly newsletters: https://www.skaleaustralia.com/news

Thanks for listening! If you have enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, Sydney-based luxury business experts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux explore the undercover luxury leader in the Australian market: the wellness industry. From the integration of wellness into everyday Australian culture to the rise of wellness real estate, luxury retreats, and lifestyle experiences, they unpack why investing in yourself is now the truest form of luxury.

Inside the episode:

* How Australia ranks globally in the wellness economy and the sectors driving its growth.

* The concept of wellness real estate and how luxury homes are incorporating health-focused amenities.

* Why time and health are the ultimate forms of luxury today.

* How high-net-worth individuals are investing in personal wellness regimens.

* Examples of luxury brands embracing wellness experiences, from Chanel to Cartier and Hermès.

* Hot take of the week: Career Minimalism led by Gen Z – how the younger generation is redefining what it means to follow your passion.

Resources & Mentions:

* Global Wellness Institute Report on Australia’s wellness economy

* Saint Haven, Melbourne

* Slow House, Bondi

* Capella Hotel, Sydney

* Brian Johnson, prominent bio-hacker

* Sweat (fitness app)

* Insight Timer (meditation app)

* Luxury brand wellness activations: Range Rover, Chanel, Cartier, Hermès

Why Listen?Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, a luxury business professional, or just curious about how culture shapes lifestyle, this episode shows why feeling good is the ultimate status symbol. From exclusive wellness clubs to retreats and next-level lifestyle trends, this conversation will leave you rethinking how you invest in yourself and your well-being.

Connect with Us:

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, we dive into the fascinating relationship between art and luxury. These two worlds that have always been intertwined but are becoming increasingly connected today.

From heritage houses commissioning world-renowned artists to contemporary brands collaborating with graffiti and pop culture icons, the conversation explores how creativity, culture, and commerce intersect in meaningful (and sometimes controversial) ways.

Inside the Episode

* Why luxury itself is an art form, from craftsmanship to store design

* How luxury conglomerates like LVMH and Cartier support artists and cultural institutions

* The importance of First Nations collaborations in Australia—and why sensitivity and authenticity matter

* Highlights from Chanel’s landmark exhibition at NGV, and why their recent donation of an archival dress cements the Maison’s place in Australia’s cultural landscape

* Why Coach’s revival is worth celebrating, with bold partnerships from Basquiat to Disney

* The role of art exhibitions in reframing luxury heritage for the public

Hot Take of the Week: What are the most iconic artist-brand partnerships?

* Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami

* Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama

* Yves Saint Laurent x Mondrian

* Schiaparelli x Salvador Dalí

Why Listen?

Whether you’re in fashion, art, or simply curious about culture, this episode shows how luxury brands are shaping identity and legacy through their artistic choices. Hear why art remains at the heart of meaningful brand storytelling.

Connect with Us:

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

Thank you for listening! Subscribe to hear more from SKALE.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

AI is shaking up every industry — and luxury is no exception. In this episode of Skale Up, we dive deep into how artificial intelligence is transforming the luxury sector. From predictive analytics and personalised experiences to AI-generated campaigns and the controversial use of virtual models, we explore where technology enhances creativity — and where it risks diluting authenticity.

You’ll hear real-world examples of AI in action, from Gucci collaborations with AI creatives to e-commerce’s virtual try-ons, plus the backlash some brands have faced when misusing AI. We also unpack the cultural nuances between opportunistic marketing and staying true to brand values, and why the human touch remains the ultimate luxury.

Inside the episode:

* How AI can free up creative teams to focus on storytelling and craftsmanship

* Why predictive analytics is a game-changer for client experience in luxury retail

* The difference between AI campaigns that inspire and those that alienate customers

* The role of cultural attitudes in shaping AI adoption strategies

* Future trends: from realistic virtual try-ons to AI-powered authentication of luxury goods

Links & Resources Mentioned: (ADD PHOTOS)

* David Klingbeil — Founder, Submarine AI

* Sybil de Saint Louvent — AI Creative Director: @saintlouvent_

* Maison Meta campaign for Moncler

* AI tools: Midjourney, Runway ML, and Perplexity

Connect with Us:

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com

In this episode of Skale Up, we dive into the world of dupe culture. Unpacking its rise, implications for luxury brands, and how some labels are cleverly navigating the blurred lines between authenticity and imitation. From Zara’s runway-inspired racks to beauty brands like MCo Beauty mimicking cult favourites, we explore the fine line between inspiration and infringement.

The conversation spans consumer behaviour, legal grey areas, and how visibility into manufacturing has shifted the power dynamic. We also touch on how luxury brands are responding, from Bottega Veneta’s fine jewellery launch to Olaplex’s cheeky “OlaDupe” campaign.

Plus, a hot take on how sporting events are becoming luxury’s next big stage: from Louis Vuitton at the F1 to Kith x Wilson and the evolution of brand ambassadors with real talent, not just aesthetic appeal.

Inside the episode

* Dupe vs. Counterfeit: What’s the difference and why both are thriving.

* Consumer Savviness: Why shoppers are turning to dupes even if they can afford the original.

* Luxury’s Credibility Crisis: Transparency in manufacturing has created new challenges for prestige pricing.

* Brand Strategy: How brands like Olaplex and Bottega Veneta are cleverly embracing or responding to being duped.

* Legal Limits: Lululemon’s lawsuit against Costco and why it might backfire.

* Craftsmanship vs. Marketing: The value of storytelling and quality in preserving brand equity.

Hot Take of the Week

* Sports x Luxury: From Wimbledon to F1, why high-end brands are investing in sporting events as lifestyle and community-building platforms.

Connect with Us:

* Instagram: @skale_australia

* Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/

* Email us: [email protected]

* Website: www.skaleaustralia.com

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com