Natasha Nicole

Today we introduce you to an ambassador of fun @natashanic is one of those people who makes smiling and having a good time look easy. She also has a super cute dog that sleeps in a fish shaped doggie bed (see second photo). Her biggest claim to fame is she is taller then Danny Devito. So excited to lighten up the week with this incredible human.

What experiences in life shaped you the most? Growing up in La Serena, Chile. Being from multiple backgrounds has been a huge influence in my life & changed how I see people and the world as a whole. It’s shaped me into the woman I am today.

Who is your biggest influence and why? Absolutely everyone currently in my life. That’s the reason I keep them all so close. Surrounding yourself with positive people that inspire you to be the best version of yourself is the most affordable form of therapy.

What do you feel is your mission/purpose in life? Well shoot… survival? But on a lighter level, I sure do hope I served as a fun, positive, inspiring ray of sunshine in people's lives.

Sing or dance? Both, duh. Although I’ll be honest, I’m a triple threat. (Someone give this girl a stage)

Draw or write? Zoodles of doodles.

Favorite word and least favorite word? Favorite word: Yes. Least favorite word: No.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? People… and people.

What are things that bring you joy in the world? Dessert & Travel. Whisk me away to any place that entails eating and exploring, and I’m the happiest girl in the world.

What does being a woman mean to you? Strength. I’m constantly proven of this every day by the amazing women surrounding me. From the constant struggles of inequality, to our relentless drive, females are one hell of a strong being on this planet. Beyonce wasn’t kidding… we really do run the world.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? The beautiful end result of the trials and tribulations of my life.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? Laughter is key! But I won’t lie, therapy works wonders.

Mantra of the moment? Ugh, so cheesy, but it sure is keeping me driven this year… Just do it.

Favorite quote? “Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too young to accomplish something. A baby shark is still a fucking shark.”

What do you want to tell men who don't understand? “It’s okay, let the ladies handle this."

What is the best advice you have ever received? "Never limit yourself.” -Nayib Chaibun

What makes you feel stuck? Routine. The more comfortable I feel in one place, the harder it is to explore new options and continue to push myself - but boy does it pay off every time.

What is the best part of being alive? All the fun I get to have!!! Life is 100% what you make it.

What is the best day of the week? I’m a Friday night kinda gal. Absolutely nothing can bring me down on a Friday night… I know I’ve still got two full days of fun ahead.

Please tell me a bit about the work you do at Hurley… Officially, I’m the Women’s Global Product Manager, but in English… I plan out and architect what each season will consist of. Starting with the financial goals, to laying out exactly how many styles are needed to be designed into. Whether they’re brand new, from last season, or a specific silhouette need. Even fabrics are planned out ahead of the design stage. I’m the smallest mastermind behind all of the above for women's swimwear, apparel, footwear, and accessories globally. Every day is completely different than the last and there’s never a dull moment. It’s no surprise Bob Hurley’s motto is to “Have Fun!” and our small (but dynamo) team of 4 definitely does… we hope the new & improved Hurley women’s product is enjoyed as much as we enjoyed making it.

Any advice for young ladies thinking of getting into your industry? I’ve got two; Merchandising is your best friend. It’s the hub of all product creation and the best way to ultimately figure out what direction you’re interested in taking. Perfect for an internship or getting your foot in the door. Leverage any & all connections. This is similar to almost every industry but it’s true. Who you know could not only mean getting to the top of that resume pile, but can also be used as a great way to showcase your talents when your background or experience isn’t up to par. As long as you’ve got the drive and passion, people will notice.

Genevieve

Could you tell me a bit about Wolf Connection? Wolf Connection is not only a wolf & wolfdog sanctuary, but a place where humans who carry trauma can come to heal, learn, grow, and be supported. It is a spiritual and energetic sanctuary where inexplicable magic occurs.

What is Wild Dogs Co? Wild Dogs Co. is my passion project, it's a clothing line - but also a collective & coalition. We aim to raise awareness about the places we love to play, namely, National Parks and the flora & fauna that inhabit them. We love to ride, climb, hike, etc. in these lands, but don't always realize the special care that they require. Unwittingly, Wild Dogs is also a platform to empower women. We hold community events, classes, and rides to benefit the causes we love.

What makes you YOU? I believe it's a blend of youthful innocence and downright darkness. A painful, pure, fierce passion.

What are things that bring you joy in the world? The people I love, both human & nonhuman. Wild lands. MY motorcycle. Seeing others succeed.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self? The things that seem to make you different & self-conscious will one day be those which make your wildest dreams come true.

What does being a woman mean to you? Being a woman means I am working twice as hard, fighting battles unbeknownst to men... but I am given the power to lift up other women, to open and hold space for those coming behind me, and that is a remarkable gift.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? Today, I see someone I love dearly.

Last read and what did you take away? My last read was "Pet Semetary," by Stephen King. My takeaway is: "sometimes dead is better." Certain things, aspects of our personalities, inclinations, lives - are best left behind us, memories we can learn from but not utilize anymore.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? This is in a constant state of evolution. The more aware I become, the more I have to do in this realm. I meditate, I pray, I am of service, I am honest, and I keep my side of the street clean. I ask for help. I breathe in mountain air and take time to be quiet & alone.

How do you keep yourself physically healthy? I hike, I hike A LOT. I climb outdoors and in a gym. I use the Nike Training app when I need a quick home workout. I go to acupuncture & do yoga - strength comes in many forms.

What woman in history has inspired your strength? Honestly, my mother is all I can think of at this moment. She taught me that being strong and brave looks many different ways - that you don't have to be calloused to be tough, and that you also don't have to take any shit to be kind.

What do you want to tell men who don’t understand? Look for the similarities, rather than the differences. If I cut you open, you'd look the same as me, and neither of us are objects.

Mantra of the moment? "Be a duck." With the more awareness and publicity I welcome, the more I feel and notice people. I am learning to let things that don't serve me roll off my back, like water off said duck's.

What does home mean? Home is where my loved ones are, and specifically the Angeles National Forest. Anywhere I can breathe deeply and gently, anywhere I feel strong.

How should I love? Love honestly, honest to whatever you truly believe - not based on anything or anyone else's meaning of the term.

What is the number one thing you took away from being a Harley Motorcycle saleswoman? Success (on my terms) and peace of mind are invaluable.

Veronica Lowe

Beautiful, original, kind and creative. This week we introduce you to Veronica, the mastermind behind @shop_wheelhouse & @wheelhouseofevents. This woman embodies the energy that comes with the high desert and we feel honored to share her story

Why flowers? Creating art with beautiful gifts from Mother Nature... best job in the world!

What makes you YOU? Hmmm, I guess I’ve been so wrapped up in “doing” these past few years... Honestly, I'm still growing and evolving and trying to figure out what makes me... me.

Could you tell me a bit about Shop Wheelhouse? Shop Wheelhouse is essentially my love child. Given life in the desert through love, hard work, and sacrifice over the past 5 years... We’ve just celebrated going from a freelance floral studio to a full-time working plant and flower shop... specializing in desert weddings and all things plants!

What are things that bring you joy in the world? Swimming in the Pacific on hot summer days. Spring. Snapchat videos with my friends' kids. High desert hikes with good friends and our pups. Solo road trips up the coast... windows down, music up... and just being around all of the genuinely beautiful humans I’ve been so lucky to collect this lifetime.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self? The only love that matters is the love you give yourself.

What does being a woman mean to you? Woman to me are like nature… we can be torn down, beaten up, exploited... and yet we continue to love, nurture, and provide by constantly growing and being more aware. Being a woman is a gift, unless you make it a curse.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? A very loved and lucky girl.

Last read and what did you take away? My ADD and work have kept me from finishing a book in years, I’m almost done with a book called “Being Centered”. Love me some self-love books... Oh, and I ordered the ones you recommended too!

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? Surrounding yourself with positive people, yoga, water meditation, loving on my pup Leila, and definitely tons of weed :)

How do you keep yourself physically healthy? Physical health is so important in my field... Strength training and hiking are my go-to in the spring and fall months. During the winter, I enjoy hibernating but I’m hoping to get back into swimming this summer!

What woman in history has inspired your strength? My mom, Susan J Osterkamp... Through it all she was always smiling.

What do you want to tell men who don’t understand? I don’t have time for men who don’t understand.

Mantra of the moment? Life is what you make of it... and boy have I made this a good one!

What does home mean? Home = Sanctuary // Being an empath you need a sacred space to recharge and go within... I can spend days at home alone completely content in my own elements.

How should I love? I’ll tell ya once I figure that one out ;)

Tanika hoffman

What is paradise? Paradise would be warm water, palm trees, fun waves surrounded by friends and family and just living life.

What would you like for your next birthday? A baby elephant.

What do you want the world to know about you? I’m always willing to have fun.

Should you be able to have your cake and eat it too? If you are talking about an actual cake, yeah sure.

Have you ever been skinny-dipping? Yes.

Do you have any phobias? Spiders.

Is the world big or small? Real big but sometimes real small.

Do you believe in miracles? Yes.

What’s your relationship like with your father and mother? Really good, they have supported me and been there for me through everything my entire life and career.

Do you sing in the shower? If I’ve got a song stuck in my head.

At karaoke what song do you pick? I avoid karaoke.

What is one word that describes you? Happy.

What are your thoughts on the ocean? The ocean is such a beautiful place and it’s a perfect place to go to relax and to take in Mother Nature and everything that is amazing around you.

What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned from surfing? To be able to accept change and to take whatever life throws at you, through the fact that every wave is different and you never know what to expect so you just go into things with a positive outlook and have the most fun.

What is the best advice you have ever received? To never give up.

How do you feel about running long distance? It’s not my favorite but I will do it.

If you were invisible what is the first thing you would do? Run around naked.

What are better apples or oranges? Apples.

Do you like being the boss of people? No.

What year would you have rather been born in? Anytime in the 80’s.

How many ninjas are there in Japan? A lot of ninjas. Are there even ninjas in Japan? I don’t think so. Are they all hiding? Maybe they are just running around naked.

Have you ever had an accident with a stapler? No but that could be my worst nightmare.

What booze has given you your worst hangover? Wine.

What’s your favorite food? Pizza.

Who would you rather fight, Miley Cyrus or Justin Bieber? Justin Bieber.

What would you do if you found a finger? Run and scream. Pick it up and poke people with it.

What would you do if you inherited a pizzeria from your uncle? I would have a really cool pizzeria from my uncle.

What is your motto? Take whatever life throws at you with a smile.

What do you think about sharks? Nothing bad, they live in the ocean and we are in their space most of the time.

Johanna Swanson

Today we introduce you to Johanna Swanson. Wife, mother, teacher, business owner and all around amazing optimist. Johanna sets the bar for how to live a healthy and balanced life and I feel so lucky to have dove into some of her tips and tricks for good living.

What is one thing I should know about kids? Don’t ever stop being a kid at heart! Kids thrive with structure and within that structure you can offer them the security to be spontaneous and creative. Never underestimate the intelligence of a child! They are capable of understanding the most complicated concepts if you just give them a chance. Just like adults, they don’t like being talked down to; they want respect and the benefit of the doubt. Be extremely careful what words you say in front of them. Whatever they hear you say about who they are, what they do, or how they feel will create their identity. So choose your words wisely as to never label them in a negative way. Ex. A child is not bad, a choice is bad. It’s not that they don’t like vegetables, they are just going to try eating broccoli again another time. I feel like I have to try and think things through about ten steps to make sure I am not setting myself up for a trap. It might seem easier and a good idea right now, but in a week what consequence will I have to pay!

Could you tell me a bit about Mar Y Lana? Mar Y Lana is my passion project! It all began when my children were passed down ponchos that had been in our family for 40 years. I work with traditional artisans of Colombia, where my family is from, to design loom-woven ponchos. My goal is to support this ancient tradition by helping artisans, reclaim, preserve, and innovate their craft by creating a market for their products. Mar Y Lana gives back 5% of profits to the local school in Colombia, and my greatest goal is to produce enough demand for loom-woven textiles that I can get some of them men, who used to weave full-time but have since had to go work in the coal mines, back on their looms and in the safety of their homes. Mar Y Lana wants to advocate for SlowFashion and importance of buying things that last and can be passed down.

What advice would your older self give to your younger self? All of your mistakes are not in vain! Keep trusting your intuition and the lessons you are being taught, you know how to grow. You are beautiful, appreciate the beauty of your youth rather than being so self-conscious.

If you could wake up in another place tomorrow where would that be? I would want to wake up right here in Cardiff but back in the late 1800’s. I’d ride my horse across all the flower fields and down to the beach and then I’d grab a surfboard (even though they didn’t exist here yet) and I’d surf my little heart out before returning to my farm where I’d hone my skills as a Kumeyaay Indian medicine woman and midwife.

Mantra of the moment? "Those who matter don’t care and those who care don’t matter." When I’m putting myself out there and feeling vulnerable, this really helps me feel more confident.

Fight or Flight? I like to take things head-on. I’m a lover not a fighter but I don’t run away from my problems or conflicts. If you ask me how I am feeling I am not scared to give you an honest answer.

When do you know if the time is right to give up on something? I have to know that I have given the situation EVERYTHING! I don’t want to look back and wonder, what if? I may have stayed in relationships longer than most or kept failing at something over and over but maybe that’s the fight in me. I don’t want to live with regrets.

Favorite quote? "Don’t mistake my kindness for weakness."

What do you want to tell men who don't understand? Validate, validate, validate…this doesn’t mean you are saying a woman is right. It means that you are hearing her out and not going to run away from her and her feelings. You are telling a woman than you want to try and understand her even when she may not understand herself. This is how you earn a woman’s trust.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? I think I may have been born an optimist, but I am also very kind to myself. I know that thoughts are one thing and actions are another. So I don’t beat myself up for having those natural yet unfavorable thoughts and feelings. I choose to spin negatives into positives and don’t take things personally very often.

If your diet consisted of one ultimate don't, what is it? Milkshakes in the morning disguised as coffee.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? I see a happy, playful, and loving girl because I honestly don’t feel like a 40 year old wife and mother. I often forget just how much life I have lived and all the experiences that have shaped me into a really resilient and strong woman. My husband and I joke that I have body dysmorphic disorder where I think I am younger and better looking than in reality.

What is the best advice you have ever received? My dad has always had a tremendous amount of faith in me, my character, and abilities. When I graduated from college and was trying to figure out what to do with my life he told me that the hardest thing for me was figuring out WHAT I wanted to do. He told me that I was capable of doing anything I wanted to do I just needed to decide WHAT that would be and the rest would come. I believed him then, and I still believe that now.

Tell me about cancer.... We all know cancer sucks, but luckily by discovering that I carry the BRCA gene mutation I’ve been given the opportunity to take control over my risks. Last year I decided to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy and hysterectomy. It’s been a very humbling experience because I had two infections and 7 surgeries, but I know that I made the right choice in order to be around for my children. It has given me great confidence in my body’s ability to heal, my mind's ability to cope with challenges, and understand how incredibly fortunate I am to have the support of my family and friends. I am a Previvor!

You love adventure? Anything cool coming up? Life is nothing if not an adventure, some you choose for yourself, or the some are thrust upon you. This summer my husband and two children ages 2 and 4 will be selling almost all our possession and travelling for a year to volunteer and surf throughout South American and Europe.

Wesley Bird

Today we introduce you to @wesleybird artist, illustrator and dog lover. Wesley’s work is awesome but her vibes are even better.

What do you think is often the difference between people who are good at what they do and people who are great at what they do? Originality and bravery. Great people normally arrive at the solution first, take the leap of faith first, blaze the trail first.

Do people ever really change? “Better Everyday” is a mantra I repeat to myself often. What’s life for if we aren’t growing and progressing? To me, that’s change.

What does love feel like? Comfortable. Like you know who you are and they know who they are and you love each other deeply because of that, in spite of, and completely.

What has been your best investment? Myself. Whether that means investing in furthering my education, career, mental, or emotional health. I’m a much better wife, friend, employee, and human when I invest in myself.

Please tell me one Wesley fun fact… I have 7 siblings and it’s AWESOME!

What is the best advice your dad gave to you? Family first, then career. My dad is a very smart and successful businessman and I have always looked up to him as a mentor, but my family always came first and I felt that growing up. That’s hard to do and out of all of his accomplishments that’s his greatest one in my opinion.

What are the most important lessons you have learned so far, in your career or life journey? To always assume positive intent. It’s not hard to be kind. You can handle more than you think you can. There is good in everything. Life is short, give more hugs.

What is some advice you would give to someone thinking of becoming a freelance illustrator? I would highly recommend getting some experience working for a company on a design team first. I learned SO MUCH about working with clients, improving my design skills, marketing and running a business (which is all VERY important as a freelancer).

What is paradise? A sunrise in Joshua Tree.

What would you like for your next birthday? To eat street tacos on a beach in Mexico.

What is good? A Sunday dinner spent with friends.

Are you a napper? I love the idea of a good solid nap, but mine never really go that way. I just wake up feeling worse than I did before, so I’d rather just call it a day super early in the evening and wake up feeling fresh the next morning.

What are your thoughts on meditation? Well, I’m really just starting to learn about and practice it, but so far it’s brought an awareness to my mind and body that I’ve never had before. I’m learning to release tension emotionally and physically and it’s bringing me a lot of peace.

What is your earliest memory? At my home in Indiana with my two sisters.

What is the best part of being alive? Mornings. I’m a total morning person. I love feeling like I have a whole day of choices ahead of me.

What is freedom? Trusting yourself.

Renee Mooi

This week we introduce you to @reneemooi one of the masterminds behind @collectivemooi. Not only does Renee have the voice of a goddess she has also been rounding up the worlds finest creatives and has build one of the most innovative art spaces I have ever seen. Please take me back to Mexico City, I want to dance.

If you could ask god one question, what would it be? "God, if you could ask me one question... what would it be?"

Please tell me a bit about Mooi Collective.... Mooi Collective is an experiment. It brings creative talented people together in an alternative world to empower them and lead them into a collaborative mindset.

What is one Renee fun fact? I hate closing the door when I use the toilet!

If you could travel in a time machine, where would you go? Nowhere.

Why do you sing? I used to think singing defined me... singing was my mission, my purpose. Now, I don't know! But it's definitely a healing experience.

Why is music important? Music is a universal language. It speaks directly to our body, no processing. Music is beyond understanding... it's that powerful.

What happens when you die? I believe in absolutely everything.

What is paradise? Every nurturing happy moment and people that you love.

What does love feel like? Love is giving someone the power to affect you deeply. It's terrifying. It's worth it.

What is the best advice you have ever received? Be congruent.

What are the most important lessons you have learnt so far, in your career or life journey? Find a way to have an intimate, loving relationship with your ego. (F-*ck hahaha that's a tough one)

What advice would you give to someone who wants to learn how to sing? Enjoy it.

Do you know how to drive a stick shift? Proudly! since I was 9.

Do you have any phobias? Not really. I don't particularly enjoy heights, spiders... hahah

Where do broken hearts go? They stay forever. They transform into the most beautiful thing.

Taylor Carrozza

Today we introduce you to @taylorcarrozza. She came out to California on a whim and hasn’t looked back since. She likes to ride her motorcycle and eat healthy

Why do you like riding your motorcycle? Because it takes so much focus that I forget about anything and everything that is going on in my life. It lets my mind chill out and be free.

What is paradise? Paradise is that shower you take after a long day at the beach, swimming in the ocean and laying in the sun.

If you could ask god one question what would it be? Why does this life have to be so short?

What is good?

Do people ever really change? I do feel people can change because we don't even know who we are for so many years. I've changed many times, and feel I am becoming more myself every time.

What do you want the world to know about you? That I am very intuitive and superstitious.

What is your favorite childhood toy? I had a rocking horse I would rock on until I fell asleep haha loved it so much I wouldn't get off.

Do you play a musical instrument? I do not, but I've always wanted a tambourine.

Do you get excited about the Olympics? I like watching the Winter Olympics because it reminds me of home, my mom would always keep it running on the TV.

Is there anything you would change about the Ten Commandments? I don't know enough about them to comment!

How do you love? I find when I'm in love my maternal instincts kick in, like I wanna just take care of that person.

What’s the best advice you have ever received? To make sure to celebrate your birthday with your parents too because it's a big day for them also, it's the day you met!

Do you believe in aliens? Oh yeah, I feel like they all know we are here and think we are foolish that we haven't figured out how to join all of the other galaxies yet haha.

What would you say has been your best investment? My health. I take what I put into my body and how I treat it very seriously. You only have one body and there are so many beautiful things to do with it.

Is there anything strange in your refrigerator? My cat's food 😂😂

You are getting on a plane tomorrow, it will take you anywhere, where are you going? South Africa 😍

Kelly Yazdi

Today we introduce you to @kellyyazdi. She is one of the rare ones living life and riding the wind. She recently moved to rural Alaska with her dogs where she somehow manages to make cold weather look warm.

What does it mean to be alive? To be alive means to live on a path of love; to give, share, embrace each moment, and enjoy every breath.

Who are you inspired by? I’m inspired by passion—living with passion, people with passion, being tenacious about following your passion, and of course, passionfruit. It’s my favorite.

What is your favorite quote your dad used to say? My father had so many words of wisdom and sayings to live by; it’s really difficult narrowing it down to one.... I’d have to say that I’ve got two favorites whispering to me:

“Give... give so that the gift of giving may be yours, for one day all that you have, and all that you are, will be given.”

And

“Forget not that the Earth delights to feel your bare feet and the Winds long to play with your hair.”

Both quotes are derived from The Prophet, a book by Kahlil Gibran that my father used to read with me when he was alive.

Why is it important to help others? Helping others, in my opinion, is one of the fundamental parts of being a human being. We are creatures of community and gatherings, and beings that thrive on giving and sharing. When we help others, we are able to live purposefully and thrive on a level of existence that makes us feel more fulfilled. I truly value helping others and find that the most successful people in this world are philanthropic in their own individual way.

You used to be a stunt person... could you tell me a bit about that? I wouldn’t call myself a stuntwoman, but I am a woman who’s worked in the stunt industry, and what an awesome life chapter that was. After graduating college, I became a fitness trainer and I had a couple of colleagues in the health industry who were also stuntmen and women, and they introduced me to that line of work. My studies in martial arts and extreme sports got me through the door and onto the sets of some sweet gigs. I was lucky to work with some awesome teams on phenomenal projects including superhero films, post-apocalyptic television series, international commercials, and more. Being a stunt person is an extremely demanding way of life, especially in the physical sense, and it taught me a great deal about balance in all forms.

Describe adventure.... Adventure... what a beautiful word, right? Just the word itself feels superimposed with thousands of colors and fills me with unparalleled joy. Adventure is life. Adventure is my way of life.

Describe empowered.... To be empowered means to be living on a path of purpose; being the master of your fate and captaining the direction of your life. Think about it, when do you feel most empowered? To me, it’s when I’ve got a purpose or a goal that I’m working tenaciously to achieve. Empowerment is fueled by living your life with a purpose, and knowing with unwavering certainty that the universe is on your side.

Describe freedom..... Freedom means to choose... to have the ability to choose what you want to do and how you want to live. Freedom is a luxury that many take for granted, something that many will never be able to experience, and something that the courageous give up their right to have for the sake of others. I’m grateful for my freedom and embrace it through motorcycling. Being on a bike reminds me how fortunate I am to have such freedoms like traveling where I desire, turning when I want to, and embracing each moment of the path I chose to take.

Tell me one Kelly fun fact? When I was a baby, my nickname was Sausages. I was one chunky monkey, that's for sure....

What is the best advice you ever received? The best advice I ever received also came from my father, who told me to “think steak, not hamburgers.” For years I didn’t understand those words, but eventually came to realize what that prophetic man was talking about. Although both slabs of meat come from the same animal, one is cooked with delicacy and detail while the other is derived from convenience. What I came to understand from his advice was that the best things in life come from time, patience, and perseverance versus convenience; and that it’s important to be a person who thinks bigger and doesn’t get caught up in the small things.

Can an old dog learn new tricks? Of course! I recently moved to Alaska and had to get creative with exercising outdoors being that it's the middle of winter and the temperature is usually below zero. Because of this, my dogs and I started “skijoring”; a winter activity that’s a cross between dogsledding and cross-country skiing. It’s a learning process but it’s been a fun one.

Why is it important to bring people together? Bringing people together is important because it's the building block of communities and the foundation of cultures. And I’ve come to see it as an art.

Since I’ve become an event planner/project manager, I’ve found that the most successful events, and the most impactful projects, are the ones that have a natural ability to pull people together.

What has been your best investment? My best investment has been my health. When I was younger it became evident to me that living healthily was the most important thing I could invest in, and it's a decision I continue to make on a daily basis. In my opinion, the only things I have control of are my integrity and my health, and it's those things that will keep me balanced and successful in this life.

What do you want for your next birthday? I’d love an unlimited gift card to REI or a trip to Fiji. When you live in Alaska, a place like REI becomes your go-to store for everything, and you secretly dream of escaping to a place like Fiji when you have to spend hours shoveling your driveway.

Torrey Jay

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to the super duper talented Torrey Jay, the master mind behind @tangible_goods. I really love all the wisdom and vulnerability that was shared during this interview!

Why is tangibility important? Tangibility is important to me because I need to connect. Connection to the physical senses, I found, is why I create. The more I am able to connect physically, the more familiar I can become with the inner workings of self and can understand those same connections in everything/everyone around me.

You’ve been knocked down, how do you get back up? It took me a long time, and a long hard look in the mirror before I could even recognize what I was ignoring. I had attached, identified and made this negative experience a part of my story. Which in turn, wasn't allowing me to grow beyond it. Once I identified my 'stuckness', I looked that fear straight in the eyes, swallowed my pride, faced the pain and ran straight into the fire. This process took many different forms and many years, and is still showing up in unexpected ways. but I can proudly say that I have grown beyond that fear and have learned to use it as my most powerful tool.

What is paradise? Paradise is that really content feeling that you get when you can sit back and admire your life and the people in it. The trick is being able to do that anywhere, in any situation.

What do you eat for breakfast? Well that has changed recently now that I'm pregnant. It used to be smashed avo toast all day every day! But now I've got someone else making the calls and it's greek yogurt, strawberries and granola bowls!

Window seat or aisle? Window seat of course! What is adventure without the view?

Tell me one Torrey fun fact..... I was bit by a baby rattle snake a few days before my 16th birthday.

Give some advise to yourself 10 years ago... It's okay to be bold. (Not everyone will dig it, but that's ok.)

What is the best way to deal with anxiety? A. Acknowledge it. B. Sit with it. C. Surf/Stretch/Climb (whatever get's you out of head and into body) about it.

How do you love? At first, cautiously. And then without limits, apology, or tameness. I love with feminine strength and vulnerability. I love with my whole self and have recently learned how truly beautiful that is.

What do you want the world to know about you? That I think vulnerability is sexy. That I don't take myself too seriously and that I am in the pursuit of my own, unique human experience. Whatever that may be.

What is something you need to do before you die? To share this love that I've worked my whole life to cultivate.

What is magic? Magic is being aware. It's the things or moments that you might not be able to see our touch but that you can feel.

Sarah Larson

I would like to introduce you to Sarah Larson the guru behind @oftenwander. She is a dancer, business owner and traveler. This woman makes moving through life look fun and I had one heck of a time getting to explore her magic.

Why Often Wander? I chose "Often Wander" because I believe in "wandering" as a way of living a creative life. For me, it's so important to not only travel but to stay open and curious to keep inspired along the way. Wandering implies that there is no real direction, but there is movement and curiosity, and for me, that's everything. I also wanted to build a brand that would encompass anything I was inspired by at the time, whether it was dance or making things with my hands.

What is paradise? My literal interpretation of paradise is a jungle, a beach, wide-open spaces, fresh air, warm winds, and cotton candy skies. But also puppies, lots of lit candles and twinkly lights, creative minds collaborating, abundant kindness, laughter, and peace.

What is good? Thai Food, Yoga, Dance, Naps, Coffee, pools, rooftops, flea markets, road trips, adventures.

What has been your best investment? TRAVEL. MYSELF. MY BUSINESS. They all go hand in hand, when I invest in one, the others thrive. They are all connected.

Why do you dance? To get myself out of my head and back into my body, to ground down to earth, to express myself, to find hidden shapes, or new ways of moving, to operate from the other side of my brain.

When do you feel most free? Riding a bike, in a plane, wandering, hiking, swimming in the ocean.

In a game of truth or dare, what do you pick? Dare. Why not? YOLO.

If you could time travel, where would you go? France in the 60s.

We’re getting on a plane tomorrow going... where are we going? Africa. The Gambia, the Ivory Coast, Egypt, Morocco.

What is the best advice you have ever received? Fake it till you make it. Giving yourself the benefit of the doubt, being the best at something you're actually not, and eventually you will be.

What would you like for your next birthday? To be in the desert with my tribe doing something creative.

Are you a napper? Absofreakinglutely. It's my guilty pleasure. I can nap anywhere. When I had a corporate job, I had a key to a storage room that no one else had, and I would nap in there EVERY DAY.

How do you balance work and pleasure? Yoga. It gets my mind right. Also finding "passion projects" within work. Things that I'm excited about or inspired by, to incorporate them into Often Wander. Usually a good wandering or photoshoot will leave me beaming for weeks!

Elise Crigar

Today we introduce you to @elise_crigar. She is a skateboarder, designer, photographer and advocate for all things cool. Had such a great time watching this stylist gal surf the pavement of Dana Point

Why is skateboarding important? Skateboarding is a fun sport or past time, a great way to get outside and have fun. However, what makes it important is a deeper rooted concept. Skateboarding gives the opportunity to overcome, experience and grow. Overcoming fear, social standards, judgment, showing up to a public place and being willing to fail and fall in front of peers. It provides an experience in the sense that once one overcomes, they are given a stronger personal perspective and simply experiencing skating for what it is, fun. No matter the level or ability just having fun. Growth in the sense that once one starts learning they won’t want to stop. It will bring to light a whole new community of like minded people. Most importantly one has overcome and created this experience for themselves, they have grown, they are stronger. Thank you skateboarding.

What should I know about Florida? Gators are a real thing. I really miss Publix and being able to see the sunrise and sunset.

What’s the different between good people and great people? I think good people are rocking along living their life. Great people are set out to fill a void or meet a need. They are working to better something.

Do you fight for what you want or wait for it to come your way? Always fight.

What’s the best advice you have ever received? My dad was full of good advice that sticks with me to this day. I would say the best thing he ever taught me was, “it never hurts to ask”. Growing up and being faced with bigger challenges and options I have realized you don’t get what you don’t ask for. A lot of the times I think people are scared or worried about the outcome. Done correctly asking and putting yourself out there is what will get you where you want to be. Put fear and insecurities aside and go after what you want, it all starts with asking.

What do you order from Macdonalds? Nothing :)

In a game of truth or dare what do you pick? Dare. Makes for a better story.

What’s your best love advice? If love leaves you, let it. Don’t chase something that was never yours.

Who are your idols? I don’t really have idols. I do have people that interest and inspire me. Cindy Whitehead was a pro skater in the 70s now she gives back to girls in skateboarding.

What is paradise? A glitter pink mini ramp on an island with donuts.

What would you like for your next birthday? For my next birthday, I would love to go to Hawaii or somewhere epic to skate, shoot and explore.

Who would you like to take to dinner? My cat sabbath, she’s so cute sleeping on my lap right now.

Window seat or aisle? Window seat, seeing the sunrise/sunset is a must for me.

Tell me one Elise fun fact..... I designed the first ever hardback book on female skateboarding. “It’s Not About Pretty” Go check it out!

Bleu Archbold

1. What do you want the world to know about you? Spanish is my first language.

This week we introduce to @bleuarchbold a Yogi, model, roller skater and matcha making expert. Bleu has an infectious positive energy that makes you feel alive.

2. Can you drive a stick shift? Yeah I used to drive an 86 land cruiser when I lived in Hawaii.

3. Do you have a favorite meal that you grandmother cooks? Not really… none of my grandmas are very good cooks.

4. You mentioned you have an older brother... What is the best advice he has given to you? Stay away from boys and to Smoke weed everyday.

5. What are your thoughts on aliens? Aliens obviously exist somewhere in the universe! I think that some of them are living among us, camouflaged as humans.

6. Is there anything strange in your refrigerator? We never really have anything in our refrigerator but we always have lots of kombucha, beer and lettuce.

7. Who has had a big impact on your life and perspective? My mom, she taught me to work hard for what I want! Nothing is handed to you.

8. Can an old dog learn new tricks? Absolutely.

9. In a game of truth or dare what do you pick? Dare.

Kestrel Jenkins

This week we introduce you to Kestrel Jenkins, the master mind behind @consciouschatter a concept dedicate to conversations about clothes

Why is what we wear important?

What we wear says a lot about who we are. When we go out into social spaces, what we wear is the first way we connect with the people around us. For me, it's important that the pieces I'm wearing have a powerful story behind them - in a way, I believe this enhances my presence, because I have this elevated connection to the pieces I am wearing. Not only am I saying something in the way I put the composition of my outfit together, but each garment is also saying something in the stories they hold - when it comes to who made them, what they are made of, and how they were made.

Tell me one Kestrel fun fact....

I'm named after a bird - a kestrel. My dad used to work as a raptor rehabilitator, meaning he would help injured hawks and falcons. Just before I was born, someone brought him a baby kestrel that had fallen out of its nest into a freshly tarred road. My dad cleaned the bird, taught it how to fly, and released it. Soon after, I was born and named Kestrel - which turns out, couldn't be more on-point and inline with my personality. I've always been proud of my name, even as a child - I feel that it truly reflects who I am.

What is paradise?

Having the opportunity to do work that absolutely speaks to your soul - following your must according to writer & artist Elle Luna - and financially supporting yourself through these projects alone.

What are the most important lessons you have learnt so far, in your career or life journey?

Patience + consistency. As an aries, I tend to struggle on the regular with processes, and having enough patience to complete the ideas that constantly flow through my mind. By starting Conscious Chatter, and continuing to build it over the last two years, I have surprised myself in how at times, when you simply continue to create, an incredible community can grow around your project.

Could you tell me a bit about conscious chatter?

Conscious Chatter is an inclusive audio space that brings people together to talk about our clothing + the layers of stories, meaning and potential impact connected to what we wear. It's a venue that allows us to come together to continue to learn more about the garment industry and how we can all be a bigger part of positive change in the industry.

What has been your best investment?

Travel. Having the opportunity to live in other places, as well as explore different and unknown spaces has hugely impacted who I am today. I constantly crave difference, being in unfamiliar places, and challenging my comfort zone - because I've learned over the years, that these situations create the most optimal space for me to grow as a human.

What would you like the world to know about you?

I will do everything I can to bring the conversation of why what we wear matters to as many people as possible, and I will be open to listen to what others have to say along the way.

What are you thoughts on meditation?

Yoga is a massive part of my life, and has been since I was in high school. I first explored yoga with my mom - I got her a membership as a gift, since she was struggling with tendonitis in her elbow. Since then, it has played a significant role in my mental state. Practicing yoga has helped me gain perspective, enhance my patience and truly calm me down when I can be a super high-energy / wired being.

What do you wear to bed?

Men's boxer briefs and a comfy tee

Did you collect anything as a child?

Yes, stuffed animal primates - I had chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans. And also - Vogue Magazines from around the world.

Would you ever donate you body to science?

In your opinion who makes the best french fries?

Can I say tortilla chips instead? If so, El Nopalitos are the bomb! I'm not much of a fries connoisseur.

Is there anything you can cook or bake really well?

I love cooking and baking - there's something exceptionally therapeutic about it - it's like gardening to me - where you get to touch and feel something in the process of its creation. I obviously spent too much time on a computer. :) I make a bomb vegan pesto, and I also love experimenting with vegan desserts - my current favorite is a chocolate tart with coconut whipped cream.

Kaitlin Mogentale

Also I wanted to ask you. Why did you start Pulp Pantry which is now Trashy chips?

I woke up to a realization - that there was a massive, nutritiously-rich waste stream of organic fruit and vegetables in Los Angeles that no one had found a better solution for.
But why did I start Pulp Pantry? I went on the John Muir Trail with the idea for Pulp Pantry in mind, but I was one foot in one foot out. Fear of failure was the only thing preventing me from diving headfirst, putting my all into building this company. It wasn't a good reason to quit at all.

And what are a few lessons you have learned from being a small business owner?

Don't downplay your dream, vision, ideas. Share the pie in the sky, share your passion and enthusiasm - your energy is transferable. It's the only way you'll get people to invest in building this baby with you. Carve out time for reflection. Journal extensively along your journey. Because it's going to be a long one. Full of twists and turns. And there's nothing sweeter than reveling in your experiences and learning from them, watching as your mind expands and your perspective opens. Lose the ego. Everything becomes easier.

What are some of the unforeseen obstacles and challenges you have had to overcome in operating your own business? Both personally and professionally.

Personally, learning how to trust. I'm still learning. Giving up control is giving in to trust, it's a beautiful thing. Learning how to listen to my body and inner wisdom, to respect myself and take time to do the things that recharge the batteries and keep me connected to my community.

Professionally, in the beginning, it was that inevitable realization that no one has all of the answers. That building a business is an art and should be a creative process, done with integrity, unique to the people building it. There are a million ways to build a business, and there are many right ways.
How to listen, actively. Listen to customers, listen to mentors, listen to the world. When you listen you might hear something that unlocks a new door.

What are some of the things you do to maintain a work/life balance?

Right now, my work is my life. There is no balance in the traditional sense, no set time when work "starts" or "stops," yet I feel in balance. I work alongside colorful, inspiring, aligned people who make work play and play work. I'm a thread in an incredible, growing network of inspiring women who are leading the movement towards a more conscious and well society, and that's something to feel inspired about.

Today we introduce you to Kaitlin Mogentale the genius behind @trasychips. Kaitlin is using business to bring good into the world and is spreading lots of happiness along the way.

What do you usually eat for breakfast?

I'm a bit obsessive now about making tonics. Made to fulfill a function, they're intentional, ritualistic and healing. I've been drinking this one creation in place of coffee and it keeps me satiated through most of the morning. It energizes me and also helps to buffer stress. 1 heaping tbsp coconut oil, turmeric, ginger, maca, ashwagandha, shilajit, black pepper, holy basil and a good 2 tbsp cacao. Add a little local honey or a few drops of stevia and it's just a treat.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting their own business?

Simplify, simplify, simplify. Strategize. Before you begin, before you overcomplicate things, distill why you're in it, what the value is, and what the end goal (success) looks like for YOU. With those pieces in mind, pound the pavement and meet with people who know about getting where you want to go, who have gone down that road or who are just a bit further along than you. Most will be happy to help so long as they can sense that you're sincere. Last, just do it. Put it out there. Don't be shy, don't be afraid. This will be fun.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Eat Food, Not Too Much. Mostly Plants. (Michael Pollan). Please don't think that only applies to food 😜

What book should I read next?

My eyes are often occupied. I'm all for podcasts and audiobooks when my ears are free. Podcasts have taught me how to be a better listener, noticing what separates a good host from a bad host. Esther Perel is really a vision. A dream woman. She's a psychotherapist focused on relationships, with others and ourselves. I think we'd all do well to give a listen.

What has been your best investment?

Of time, blood, sweat, tears.... building Pulp Pantry. Worth every drop.

What do you think is often the difference between people who are good at what they do and people who are great at what they do?

People who are great exist outside of the box. They push the envelope. They make magic happen. They transfer energy and passion in a way that transforms others around them. People who are good at what they do, maybe they're missing that spark. After all, what separates the good from the great could just be the perception of the people watching. So much of what we do, creatively, in business, its success is dependent on forces (ahem, people) beyond ourselves. One individual can change the world, but they can't do it without people changing too. How well are you able to control those forces? Greatness leaves an impression.

What is one talent or strength of yours, which has been critical to your success?

Empathy. I'm easily inspired by the world and by people. I feel. I get contact high.

Window seat or aisle?

Window. Always. Ideally, I'll be landing when the sun is setting.

What would you like for your next birthday?

I'm asking my people for their time, and presence. To exist in the moment with me (is that not the biggest ask of all?).

What is love?

Nourishment at its best. And lucky for us, its an infinite resource.

Lou Samantha

Tell me one Samantha fun fact.... I lived in a truck for a couple of months while traveling the states and working remotely.

What is the dream? The dream is no schedule and succumbing to the moment, allowing life to take me wherever it wants that day, with whomever is there with me.

When do you feel most alive? When I’ve got my helmet on and I’m scooting on the open road on my motorcycle. Everything seems to be heightened during that time and it’s a great time to be alone and not be “seen”, and open to be myself.

What are your values and principles? I often refer to the “the four agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. They helped me through a rough turning point in my life and guided me to enlightenment. I refer to them when I’m feeling stale or agitated.

What do you fear most? Honestly, I fear regret. I had a pretty emotional adolescence and it took longer than I would have hoped to kickstart my personal growth but now that I’ve gotten myself pretty far out of that hole, I want to make up for all that lost time.

What are your thoughts on change? I’ve got a personal tag line: “Conquering complacency one fear at a time”. If something scares you - challenge that fear, question it. Is it reasonable? No? Do it.

Are you afraid of the dark? Yes - I’ve seen scary movies! I’m also slightly claustrophobic so pitch black to me is just another form of that fear.

What’s the best advice you have ever received? Speak up, often, even if you are unsure. By keeping things to yourself you are being selfish, otherwise hindering possible growth amongst yourself, your team and others.

What advice would you give to your siblings? I’m gonna leave this one blank.

If you could go back in time what would you say to your younger self? “We are all artists painting our own versions of the truth” - Don Miguel Ruiz. You are not your emotions.

How do you repair a broken heart? I like to talk about it, journal about it, meditate. Live in it - feel it for all its worth because that’s what it means to be alive! And more importantly - spending lots of time alone. Allowing myself the time to heal so I can forgive myself and leave it behind me and not have it creep up on me in the future as a masked version of itself.

Buckley

Why do you paint?

I paint because it's a free ride in a momentary time machine. It warps reality, and while I'm doing it, nothing else exists. And after I've done it, something is born that never existed before.

What is love?

Love is listening beyond hearing, seeing beyond looking, knowing beyond reasoning, feeling beyond touching. It is a symphony of sensation that transcends the body/mind and links us directly back to the essence of our soul.

What is one thing you need to do before you die?

Master my craft.

What are your thoughts on spirituality?

Spirituality is the soul's request for our earthly experience to be made meaningful. It is an attempt to quench the insatiable thirst for reason within paradox. It is nourishment for Mind, tortured by incomprehensible bigness, to be soothed with a sweet reminder to be small in it all. Spirituality is a vehicle to witness patterns/lessons in natural law so that we may conceive of a scheme greater than that with which we are instinctively preoccupied.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

To consider the idea: The way you do one thing is the way you do everything. It always checks me back in.

What is home?

Home is freedom from politeness and limited action. Wherever you can do that, you are home.

Are we in control?

To an extent, we are not in control of what happens to us. We are in control of what we think and what we choose to do about it.

What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned spending time on the road?

How to get along with absolutely anyone, including myself. How to never be bored. How to completely disregard consequence.

If I was considering becoming a full-time artist what is one book I should read?

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield and its companion, Going Pro.

If you could ask God one question what would it be?

What is your favorite thing to make?

What are some of the core values you believe are important to live by?

Acceptance. Tolerance. Discernment. Integrity. Transparency. Compassion. Humor. Persistence. Diligence.

What are the most important lessons you have learned so far, in your career or life journey?

This could be anything from very simple small lessons, too much larger bigger lessons. I have learned that curiosity is essential, that we must foster a closeness to what feeds our fire and continue to burn until the day we eject from our bodies. I want to die fascinated. I have learned what it is to have passion for a calling and to dedicate myself to it above anything else. I have learned that worrying is creativity's worst enemy. I have learned the importance of having something to look forward to. I have learned how to let love evolve me. I have learned that integrity is the ultimate equalizer of mankind; it is the bedrock of a being and to grow it/know it is the key to a prosperous society.

Describe empowered...

My favorite definition of power is simply the ability to DO. When make liberated actions, when we do as we desire, we are empowered.

Kinley Danger Winnaman

As you slide down the banisters of life, may the splinters never point the wrong way.
Love, Kinley….Today we introduce you to kinleydanger. She is a painter, entrepreneur and seriously special human gifted to planet earth. The world needs more people like Kinley who keep life fun and worth living. Oh yeah she also paints passion pants.

Why do you paint?

To make sure I still have a pulse.

Why is art important?

Great art makes you constantly renegotiate your surroundings and how you fit into your own constructed environment. Art will always be a question, not an answer. And curiosity is one of the most important fundamental qualities a person can have.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

It’s a variation of a walk, meditation, making the most spectacular oatmeal on the planet, a few emails, drawing exercises, maybe a swim.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Don’t take yourself too seriously. And keep asking questions.

What is paradise?

A foot massage from someone you love and tequila, soda, & lime.

When are you most afraid?

It’s a tie between getting too cold when I’m skiing and being caught in a riptide.

How do you overcome fear?

Wear a nice, toasty ski suit and bring fins.

What does love feel like?

Butter. Smooth like butter, hot like sauce. Hot butter on a breakfast toast. Delicious.

What does a perfect day look like?

Usually either on a Sunday or Tuesday. An early morning at the flea market, find some treasure, have some Gazpacho at Le Pain, a full body massage, maybe a little sushi and a fantastic movie. Another winner is a Malibu or Laguna beach day, sushi, vintage shop, corn on the cob, and a Pacifico with lime. And we’re bound to make new friends at some point along this adventure. Because I’ll be wearing passion pants without a question.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I want to make E.V. Knox into a global lifestyle brand specializing in boutique hotel and high-end residential projects. As well as having my own artist residency program/retreat in Joshua Tree and I would love to have my own tequila or wine and an avocado/olive farm in Montecito. Oh and a massive garden. And an art collector.

What is your advice for someone who is in pursuit of the dream?

Be patient, be receptive, talk about your goals as much as possible to as many people as possible. You’re bound to meet that one person who knows that one person who knows the person who can take your dream and make it into a reality. Keep building your community and building everyone else up in that community. Because it takes a village.

What is one lesson you have learned thus far during your life's journey?

Don’t be a bummer. If you’re going to be negative, stay home until the storm passes. Because that shit’s contagious.

Tomorrow you walk onto a plane and the pilot says we can go anywhere.... Where are we going?

Budapest.

Natasha Zoë Garrett

What advice would you give to your younger sibling? Get comfortable with yourself and nurture that relationship first and foremost.

What is magic? Everything is magic.

What do you do to wind down? I take long baths with Epsom salts and a few drops of cedar wood essential oil. I’ll light palo santo and play music while I soak. I’m currently loving the album “The Ecstatic Music of Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda”.

What is the best advice you have ever received? Live in the frequency of love.

Tell me a Natasha fun fact..... I can keep a hula hoop up for a real long time.

How did you get into being a wardrobe stylist? I come from a family of creatives. I grew up with a mother who took me to flea markets and vintage shops since I can remember. I’ve always been fascinated with personal style as a form of self-expression. I love getting dressed. It’s ritual for me. It’s so much more than the clothing I wear. When I realized I could make a living creating looks and telling stories I was all about it.

How do you fix a broken heart? You don’t fix it. Let it sink in. Let heartbreak teach you something about yourself. Everything in life is a lesson sent from the universe in order for us to grow more into our authentic self.

What is love? Love is recognizing wholeness.

Do people ever really change? People change constantly. We may hold onto certain patterns or limiting beliefs until we are ready to learn our lessons from them, but in little ways we are always changing and adapting.

What has been your best investment? My health. I am not able to be of service to the world if I do not take care of myself first.

What are your thoughts on meditation? Meditation offers us space. For a long time, I thought meditation meant getting rid of thought but now I see it as giving space from thought.

What would you like the world to know about you? I’d love the world to know that I’m doing my best with the tools I have at this moment and I know that everyone else is doing the same.

Did you collect anything as a child? I’d collect sand dollars, sea glass, and feathers found on the beaches of Northern California where I grew up.

Is your grandmother a good cook? Yes, my grandmother is a good cook. I remember being young and visiting my grandparents in New Mexico, where they lived for many years. There would always be something incredible cooking in the kitchen. My grandmother isn’t a very affectionate person but nourishing another human being is one of the greatest ways to show love.

Amy Leverton

Window seat or aisle? I adore looking out the window but I'm a frequent pee-er and too damn polite so always sit in the aisle on a flight over 5 hours.

In a game of truth or dare what do you pick? Always dare! He who dares, wins ;-)

What are a few fun things you have learned from the individuals involved in the denim industry? Working in denim is not like working in fashion, it's way more chilled. It's quite bloke-y and there are a lot of dad jokers out there.

Why do you love denim? Denim is a good medium to bet on because it's so versatile. It's always in fashion in some respect. Grunge is cool? Great, you can mess up your jeans in a million ways. Ostentation? Look no further than Versace's baroque prints of the 90's. Historical nerd? You can't beat a 1947 501 Levi's replica. You're an artisan? Look no further than a slow-made Japanese jean hank-dyed in natural indigo. Trashy noughties is coming back in? Get out the diamantes. So it's the versatility firstly. Secondly, and probably most importantly, it's the soul. Jeans have soul because of the way they fade with wear so your jeans become your jeans the more you wear them. The scars make them more individual, more personal to you. It's the one item of clothing where you can actually celebrate the mess-ups.

What is freedom? I could get romantic about it, but at this stage of my life, having struggled with money along the way, I honestly think the dollar buys you a lot of freedom. I'm new to the feeling of 'comfortable' where I don't absolutely panic when something goes wrong that's going to cost me, and that feels amazing if you've not felt it before. On a more romantic note, freedom is having the confidence to do your thing and be okay with people not digging it. When I was younger, I was worried what people thought of me. Now people can join me for the ride or not. It's a fantastic ride though!

What is paradise? I spent a lot of time, money, and hard work on moving to LA so I could live in it. Paradise is here.

How do you recharge your batteries? I talk a lot when around people so if I've just come off a work trip or back from an event, I revel in my own company and silence for a few days. I'm actually a quiet person trapped in an outgoing person's body.

Tell me about Japan? Tokyo was the first city I fell in love with and really imagined living when I first visited in 2008. There's nothing I don't like about Japan really. I love the symbol of the Yin Yang and feel like it sums up a lot of my outlook in life because I love extremes. Japan is full of them: you have the polite, considered, and respectful culture which is similar to Britishness, and then on the other side, you've got the craziness that you'll find in the underbelly of Tokyo: its theme hotels and cafes, bonkers restaurants, and freaky 'adult entertainment' side. It's like walking through a circus. The exact same can be said for clothing. When I go out on a research trip, I am looking for both the artisanal, slow-made craft that is so prevalent in Japan, but I also adore crazy fashion, high color, and all the cutesy silliness of it all. There's nowhere like Japan, and I adore it for its extremes. Oh, and it's very safe, and I'm very forgetful, so many a bag can be left behind for hours in a store or at a restaurant and returned too intact. The Japanese's relationship with shame makes for a very chilled visit as far as belongings are concerned!

Who is your denim idol? That's a tough question. In cliche denim terms, I'd say Blondie on stage in 1978 in her 505's. In real terms, it would be people who have taught me the most or inspired me the most throughout my career, and that would be Ralph Tharpe, Mark Westmoreland, Sue Barrett, Madeline Harmon, and Lynn Downey.

What is your advice for someone who wants to buy nice jeans but knows nothing about denim? For me, finding the perfect jean is about finding the perfect person; follow your gut, listen to the universe, and your jean will find you and stick around! But failing that, hit up a good department store cos that's the jean equivalent of a dating app and at least you can swipe through loads of styles and find the 'almost one' while you wait for the perfect one to walk into your life ;-)

Tell me one Amy fun fact? I can do the splits and have been meaning to pull that stunt on top of the giant Levi's sign outside their head offices in SF. Just waiting for the right moment...

Why do you like smiley faces so much? I love the 70's, and I love yellow, and I love Japan, and I love kitsch. I challenge anyone who's into those things to not be into the Smiley! I also have a thing for hearts, Yin Yangs, and mushrooms. Think I grew up in the wrong era, dude.

Is there anything you can cook or bake really well? Nope. I'm more of a bachelorette, but when I'm in love, I make a mean vegetarian lasagna.

What is something you need to do before you die? I have a Word document on my laptop that I wrote on a plane once for someone to find if I die unexpectedly. The basic gist of the doc is that I live a very full life, and if I died tomorrow, I would feel happy with my lot. It was intended to stop the cliche 'she died too soon' thoughts from loved ones because I'm lucky to have done and seen more than most get to, so to want any more would be greedy. I'm not ready to go, but I'm totally okay with it. That said, I still haven't been to Mexico so, you know... trying not to die right now.