Style for Life

What it takes to be an entrepreneur: Olivia’s journey to starting two businesses by the age of 23

Stephanie talks with Olivia Hay-Smith, a young entrepreneur who has successfully launched two businesses in vintage fashion and marketing.
 
They discuss Olivia's journey into vintage fashion, the challenges of thrifting, the ethics surrounding fast fashion, and the importance of sustainability.
 
Olivia shares her insights on content creation and marketing strategies, emphasising the need for patience and creativity in the vintage reselling business.
 
They also reflect on the benefits of self-employment and the importance of collaboration across generations in the business world.
 
Follow Liv’s journey:
https://www.lovedbyliv.co.nz/
https://www.marketingwithliv.co.nz/
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Navigating Menopause: Steph Opens Up About Her Personal Journey

In this episode, Stephanie shares her personal journey through menopause, discussing the various symptoms she experienced, the impact of COVID-19 on her health, and her exploration of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
She emphasises the importance of knowledge and support during this transition and offers insights into managing anxiety and lifestyle changes.
Steph also touches on Frocktober, a fundraising initiative for ovarian cancer, and expresses her commitment to helping others navigate their menopause journey.
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Empowering communities through fitness: Suli’s journey from fitness to health advocacy

Stephanie talks with Suli, a seasoned group fitness instructor and community health advocate.
 
Suli shares his journey from teaching fitness classes to becoming a registered nurse, emphasising the importance of community health, particularly for Māori and Pacific populations.
 
The conversation explores the significance of building relationships in fitness, the challenges faced by the rainbow community, and the holistic approach to health and wellness.
 
Suli also discusses his initiatives, including Moana Vibes, which promotes inclusivity in fitness. The episode concludes with reflections on personal influences and aspirations for the future.
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/
 
Check out Moana Va: 
Instagram @moana_va
Facebook @moana vā
TikTok @moanava.pacificpride
YouTube @MoanaVa
LinkedIn @Moana Vā
Podcast @Two Fat ‘Fine
Email info@moanava.org
Website www.moanava.org

Embracing Your Body Shape

This week, Stephanie discusses the different body shapes and how to dress for them.
 
She talks about why understanding your body shape and proportions is important, and how this knowledge can lead to better styling choices.
 
She explains the significance of vertical proportions and the role of visual harmony in dressing, and highlights the limitations of AI in accurately assessing body shapes and encourages listeners to embrace their unique bodies while exploring fashion.
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

What it takes to be a stylist with Clare Maxfield

Stephanie talks with Clare Maxfield, the owner and director of Image Innovators, a leading company in image consulting and stylist training about what it takes to be a stylist in 2025.
 
Steph and Clare discuss the importance of training for stylists, the evolving role of technology and AI in colour analysis, and the comprehensive services offered by Image Innovators.
 
Clare emphasises the need for empathy and understanding in personal styling, and shares her insights on motivation and inspiration in the field of image consulting.
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

The art and science behind colour in fashion

In this episode, Stephanie discusses why colour analysis could completely change the way you think about your wardrobe.
Steph delves into the world of colour analysis, explaining its significance in fashion styling and personal branding. She discusses the benefits of understanding your colour palette, the process of colour consultation, and the evolution of tools used in colour analysis.
She also talks about the importance of technology in modern colour analysis and how it enhances the client experience.
 
If you want to book your own colour analysis and start the journey towards a better understanding of what works best for you, check out https://www.brightred.co.nz/
 
Listen to related episodes on Apple Podcasts:
Should the colour black really be a staple in your wardrobe? https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/should-the-colour-black-really-be-a-staple-in-your-wardrobe/id1750397394?i=1000721134830
Does understanding your colours really matter? https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/episode-2-does-understanding-your-colours-really-matter/id1750397394?i=1000657870814
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

A peek behind the curtain at New Zealand Fashion Week 2025

In this episode, Stephanie recalls her time at New Zealand Fashion Week and brings interviews with some amazing industry insiders about the event.
 
Hear the stories of volunteers, designers, and fashion enthusiasts who make this week unforgettable.
 
Interviews include:
 
Becky from Hyde Boutique in Oamaru https://hydeboutique.co.nz/
Stacey Beatson Stylist - https://staceybeatson.com/about/
Noku – VIP Concierge Host at NZFW – Volunteer
Mel Brown – Owner Portfolio Models - https://portfoliomodels.co.nz/
ChiChi – Mode Magazine = https://www.facebook.com/modethemagazine
Myken Stewart  - Previous owner of NZFW
Rachale Davies  - Boxed media - https://www.boxedmedia.tv/
Liam Taylor – director of the board NZFW - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-taylor-ab7a4010/?originalSubdomain=nz
Feroz Ali – Current owner of NZFW - https://www.whitecliffe.ac.nz/staff/feroz-ali/
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Untouched World with Peri Drysdale

In this episode, Peri Drysdale, founder of Untouched World, shares her journey from starting a small cottage industry to establishing a successful, sustainable fashion brand.
 
The discussion covers the origins of Untouched World, the challenges faced during its growth, the transition to production, and the brand's commitment to sustainability.
 
Stephanie and Peri also touch on innovation in fibres and future plans, including leadership programs for young people.
 
Untouched World: www.untouchedworld.com
Merino Mink: www.merinomink.com
Find out more about The Untouched World Foundation: https://www.untouchedworld.com/pages/foundation?srsltid=AfmBOop8AKee7_xymhTfxnmFWpftxkKFBnRQBFouG9TTLCwFho9oFm64
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

New Zealand Fashion Week 2025 – Diversity, sustainability, inclusion and more to look forward to

In this episode, Stephanie discusses the upcoming New Zealand Fashion Week, sharing insights into its history, evolution, and significance in the fashion industry.
 
She highlights the event's focus on sustainability and diversity, the operational aspects of Fashion Week, and the importance of sponsors.
 
Stephanie also expresses her excitement for the upcoming shows and the connections she looks forward to making within the fashion community.
 
For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

How to exercise if you are unfit and hate sport

It is never too late to start exercising. The best time to start is now.
In this episode, Stephanie discusses how to get into exercise for those who dislike it or feel unfit. She emphasises that it's never too late to start exercising and shares scientific insights about sedentary lifestyles.
Steph provides practical tips for finding enjoyable forms of exercise, the importance of accountability, and how to track progress. She encourages listeners to identify their motivations for exercising and to commit financially to their fitness goals. 
What is enough exercise? You can increase your life and healthspan with exercise by 7years with 150minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Here are 10 top tips to get you moving if you hate exercising:
1. Find something that moves you that you enjoy or can tolerate to start with. Suggestions might be – walking, dancing, a team sport like badminton or even a video game with a physical element
2. Give it times – commit to at least a month before you give up. Commit to the same time each day so you can start forming a habit.
3. Find a buddy who will do this with you and commit
4. Be accountable to someone.
5. Break it up - 150 minutes per week is manageable in 20 min blocks each day.
6. Get yourself some kit so you feel good doing the exercise. Purchase it and have it exclusively for your exercise
7. Banish comparison – you are doing this for you. Everyone started somewhere and the fact you are doing it is a great start
8. Identify your why
9. Track your workouts so you can see what you are doing
10. Make a financial commitment to your helath