Did you know I have a podcast?
It's for the handbag obsessed, and just like "How It's Made" but handbags and fashion. 🧳🎒👛💼👜👝
Having created The Handbag Awards, a self-taught handbag historian, and worked with thousand(s) of independent and not-so-new handbag designers - creating a podcast just seemed like a natural extension. (Fun fact: we received an average of 2000 applicants in the 15 years the IHDA ran. ) Considering that I was having these conversations anyway, it just made sense to record them (with their permission) and turn them into a podcast.
And yes, it does seem that everyone has a podcast now, but if you are really into fashion, a good story, and, of course, handbags - you will really enjoy the “Handbag Designer 101 Podcast.” And by the way, these conversations are so much more than just about product. They are so inspirational, fascinating, and, yes, educational too. See below ten episodes worthy (amongst others…) of a listen or watch if YouTube is your jam. P.S. The links below go to Apple but are available on every platform.
1. The Making of a Modern Classic with Elyce Arons from Kate Spade to France Valentine
Highlight:
Elyce Arons recounts the story of building Kate Spade into a household name and creating a new chapter with Frances Valentine. It’s a tale of friendship, legacy, and staying true to your vision.
Emily’s Takeaway:
I love this episode. Elyce really opens up. She said she did more with me than anyone else. I am always going to treasure that.
2. Puerto Rican Designer, Betty Paulina's Beamina: Brand Story of Courage
Highlight:
Betty Paulina’s journey with Beamina is a powerful story of courage, perseverance, and the will to succeed against all odds. Her handbags are more than fashion—they symbolize hope and resilience.
Emily’s Takeaway:
This mother-daughter story left me in tears. She was broke, prayed, and her daughter said, “I believe in you.”
3. The Making of Anima Iris Handbags: From Grief to Glamour
Highlight:
After experiencing profound personal loss, Wilglory Tanjong, the founder of Anima Iris found healing and purpose through her bold, luxurious handbag brand. Her story is raw, moving, and a testament to the power of channeling pain into passion.
Emily’s Takeaway:
You will never hear anyone more fearless than Wilglory Tanjong. This is hustle like you have ever heard before.
4. From Pockets to Handbags: Handbag Historian Catherine Buckland Takes Us Back in Time
Highlight:
Catherine Buckland takes us on a time-traveling adventure, revealing how the humble pocket gave way to the handbag, transforming how we carry our lives with us.
Emily’s Takeaway:
This is a good history of the handbag, showing how fashion evolves to meet human needs. Um, pockets = independence. Who knew?
5. Balancing Act of a Fashion Mogul and Motherhood with Rebecca Minkoff
Highlight:
Rebecca Minkoff shares her journey from scrappy designer to global fashion mogul, balancing the demands of building a brand and raising a family. Her candid insights will inspire you to dream big and stay grounded.
Emily’s Takeaway:
I have known Rebecca since she came out of the gates. She actually applied to The Handbag Awards. She really, really, lets it all out.
6. Julie Deane's Tale: From Kitchen Table to British Handbag Icon with The Cambridge Satchel Company
Highlight:
Julie Deane shares her inspiring journey of starting The Cambridge Satchel Company from her kitchen table with just £600 and transforming it into a globally recognized brand. Her story is one of ingenuity, determination, and staying true to British craftsmanship despite challenges like factory knockoffs and rapid growth.
Emily’s Takeaway:
Ok - I became smitten with Julie. Her life needs to be a movie. We had to split this into two parts because her life was incredible. You HAVE to listen to this! You think Carrie’s Post-It story is good - this is 10000% better. We even had to make a Part 2 because there was so much to say.
7. From Nursing Babies to Working Moms: Sarah Wells' Handbag Innovation
Highlight:
Sarah Wells transforms her struggles as a nursing mom into a thriving business, designing bags that make life easier for working mothers. Her story is one of necessity birthing invention and a mother’s determination to make a difference.
Emily’s Takeaway:
Sarah took frustration from a day job and turned it into a beacon of hope for new moms. There is nothing like the plight of a mom on a mission.
8. The Historical Saga of Handbags: Artifacts and Royalty with British Cultural Historian, Dr. Katrina Marchant
Highlight:
Dive into the fascinating history of handbags with Dr. Katrina Marchant and how these everyday items became cultural icons, weaving together stories of art, fashion, and identity.
Emily’s Takeaway:
Dr. Marchant has some wacky stories about British Royalty using a head as a handbag! This is like “The Crown: Handbag Drama Edition.”
9. Gucci, Fendi, & LV: The Secret Sauce of Resale and Sustainable Fashion with Resale Handbag Expert, Koyaana Redstar
Highlight:
Explore the booming world of handbag resale, where sustainability meets luxury, with high-end resale handbag expert, with Koyaana Redstar. This episode uncovers the secrets of how pre-loved bags are giving fashion a greener future—and why it’s a movement you’ll want to join.
Emily’s Takeaway:
Circular economy, used high-end bags - this covers everything. Want to know which handbags keep their value and which don’t? This is a good one!
10. Navigating the Glamour and Grit of the Handbag Retail Industry with Jaime Levy
Highlight:
Jaime Levy who has worked for the top brands that you buy peels back the layers of the handbag industry, sharing her experiences navigating both the glamorous and gritty sides of retail. Her story is one of persistence and adaptability in a competitive world.
Emily’s Takeaway:
Jaime’s family has been handbags since the 1940s, and she knows EVERYTHING about the industry. The story of selling bags at Macy’s to Neiman’s - it’s here.
