In other words: Shes learned a thing or two about start-ups.
How did the idea for Andie swimwear come about?
I mean, honestly, Ive always hated shopping for swimwear, right?
Its a miserable experience.
The real sort of light bulb moment came in the summer of 2016.
Whats been the most surprising thing youve learned about building a company?
I mean, overall nothing is easy.
Building a company is a million times harder than I ever imagined it would be.
Your company is super inclusive.
Where do you think other companies or people miss the mark when it comes to the focus on inclusivity?
Weve always had plus sizes.
Weve always used diverse models.
I think companies miss the mark when theyre not actually authentic about it.
Youre collaborating for the second time with Mindy Kaling.
What do you think makes a great collaborator in business?
An authentic partner or an authentic collaboration.
Her link in her Instagram bio is still Andie.
The first thing Id say is it is doable.
Ive become a more empathetic person since having a baby.
So I think its not only doable, it can reward your career as well.
What advice would you give women who see themselves starting a company one day or becoming a CEO?
Separating those who are successful in their companies and those who arent is frankly just not giving up.
You have to be willing to run through brick walls.
Thats just part of the game.
How would you encourage others to learn about running their business or launching a business?
When I was first building Andie, I did a ton of networking.
And I went to them.
Podcasts were also really big for me.
I would go for runs or drives and pop these podcasts on.
I was very inspired byShoe Dog.
I readThe Everything Storeabout Amazon.
I was just consuming as much content as I could about company-building, brand-building, entrepreneurship.
How can one find mentors who make sense for them?
I really encourage entrepreneurs to build up a littlepanelof mentors.
What else would you like to impart to others who are looking to really own their careers?
Its a really fun and exciting world out there.
Its worth trying a new adventure.
