What’s the secret to bringing a jewellery brand with such small beginnings to be this impactful?

Today we are joined by Rachel Mielke, the Founder of Saskatchewan-based jewellery company Hillberg & Berk. Rachel’s experience of entrepreneurship has been all about taking risks, from taking her business full-time to appearing on Dragons’ Den. But perhaps even more importantly, her journey has been about connection, and that’s been her secret to successfully utilizing the support and community she already had.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• What it was like for Rachel to launch a brand from her kitchen table.
• The catalyst that led to her truly seeing the potential in her business.
• Her experience on Dragons’ Den and the moment she got lucky on the show.
• The promotional event that led to a flop—and how it led to her best pivot ever.
• How she leaned into a strategy of building relationships in order to scale.
• Why she says success is 100% the team you build around you.
• Her secret to finding those people who are the right fit for the business.
• The values that have shaped how she shows up as a leader.
• Why it’s important to leave your ego behind when you’re building a team.
• How balancing work and motherhood doesn’t get easier (but it’s worth it).
• How building a stable business earns you the right to say “no” more often.
• Why she is excited for the next generation and how they view the world.
• What Rachel sees next for her business and her brand almost two decades in.

Hillberg & Berk: https://wwwhillbergandberk.com

Rachel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelmielke101

The Art of Strategy: https://www.theartofstrategy.ca

Alison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisongeskin