James Reed: all about business 49: Is your passion a business worth starting?: The simple method to find out | Johnnie Boden CBE
What is the secret to building an iconic brand that resonates with millions of customers on a global scale?
In this episode of All About Business, we're joined by Johnnie Boden, founder and creative director of the iconic British clothing brand, Boden. Johnnie shares his unconventional journey from an unfulfilling career in the city, to founding a fashion brand that now generates over £350 million in annual revenue.
He talks about how to discover your true passion, and the importance of self-awareness and being honest about what you are good at. He also explains the three-part "magical Venn diagram" from Jim Collins' book, Good to Great, and the impact it had on him.
Johnnie also shares the story of the difficult but necessary decision to pivot the business from menswear to the more profitable women's wear, and the importance of listening to your customers.
This is a great episode for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to find their true calling, build a brand with clear values, and learn how to make the tough decisions that drive long-term success.
Timecodes:
02:33 Johnny's early career struggles
04:20 The birth of Boden
07:56 The importance of passion and self-awareness
15:17 The evolution of Boden's Brand
25:23 Managing and growing a business
30:34 The tough decisions in business
36:31 The importance of having a coach
41:38 Expanding business in America
57:59 The role of AI in fashion
59:43 Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
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This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk