From Sketch to Shelf: The Truth About Product Development with Millie Richards
Send us a textEver had a product idea rolling around in your brain—or maybe sketched in your notebook—but no clue how to bring it to life? In this episode, I’m joined by the product development powerhouse Millie Richards, and let me tell you, this chat is a goldmine for anyone with dreams of designing a product that’s actually profitable (and doesn’t fall apart or cost your life savings).Millie’s an industrial designer with a delicious combo of design brilliance and real-world factory know-how. We talk about what it really takes to get a product from concept to customer—without blowing your margins, compromising your values, or getting ghosted by manufacturers.She spills the tea on:Why beautiful AND functional products win every timeThe biggest mistakes people make when designing a product (hint: it's not what you think)How to actually work with manufacturers (and be taken seriously)What goes into a killer spec sheet that won’t get lost in translationThe one thing you need to know about Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)And how to design with sustainability, profitability, and longevity in mindWhether you're launching your first product or have something that’s just not quite hitting the mark—this is the episode you didn’t know you needed. Plus, Millie shares the one project that changed the game for her and why she’s so passionate about impactful product design.👀 Thinking about developing a new product? 🎯 Got an underperforming one that needs a glow-up? 🛠️ Or just curious what goes on behind the curtain of manufacturing?This episode is for YOU.👉 Connect with Millie here: sagepd.com.au Find her on Instagram: @sage.product.design:Support the showI'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand.Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands).Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.
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Mastering the Messy Middle: Strategies for Business Growth
Send us a textEver feel like you’re doing all the things in your business—posting on socials, packing orders, launching products—but STILL not getting the results you want?Yep. You're probably in the messy middle. Not a newbie anymore, but not scaling like a pro just yet. And let me tell you, this stage is real and it's where so many product-based business owners get stuck.In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and talking honestly about the awkward, in-between phase that no one really warns you about. This isn’t about shiny six-figure launches or starting from scratch—it’s about what happens in year two, or five, or even ten, when things just feel… stuck.You’ll hear stories from real clients (shoutout to Mandy, Belinda, and Melissa!) and practical tools to help you stop spinning in circles and start making serious progress.🎯 Here's what I dive into:What the messy middle really looks like (you’re probably in it if you’re listening 👀)Why knowing your numbers is non-negotiable (don’t worry, I make spreadsheets sexy)How simplifying your product range can skyrocket profitsThe power of planning vs. always reactingWhat it means to work ON your business, not just in itWhy finding a community is the secret to keeping your head above waterThis episode is jam-packed with real talk, tangible tips, and a gentle (but firm!) nudge to stop trying to do it all alone.🛠️ Your Action Steps:Identify ONE thing working well in your biz—and double down on it.Let go of something that’s draining your time or energy (that product, that task, that channel 👋).Screenshot this ep, DM me on IG @thelotco, and tell me the ONE thing you’re committing to this week. Let’s get out of the mess and into momentum, shall we?You’re not broken. You’re not failing. You’re just in the messy middle. And trust me—there’s a way through.💫 Mentioned in this episode:The Product Business Growth Club – Your go-to membership for support, community + monthly strategy.Boost Your Conversion Rate Toolkit – For those of you ready to level-up your website sales game.Roadmap to Profit – For product brands + retailers ready to scale sustainably.✨ Loved this episode? Leave a review or share it with your biz bestie who’s stuck in the same place. Let’s grow together.Support the showI'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand.Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands).Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.
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5 Critical Warning Signs You Need a New Marketing Approach
Send us a textAre you marketing your little heart out 24/7 but still hearing crickets when it comes to actual sales? Or maybe your traffic is fine but conversions? Not so much. If you're nodding along, this episode is your wake-up call.Today, I’m breaking down the 5 biggest signs your marketing strategy is completely broken—and giving you the practical, no-fluff fixes to actually turn things around. Spoiler alert: this is not about working harder; it’s about getting smarter.We’ll chat about:✨ Why hustling for every single sale is a red flag 📉 What’s really going on when your sales are inconsistent AF (yep, I kept it clean for the kiddos) 🛒 The truth about traffic that doesn’t convert 💌 Why your customers aren’t coming back (and how to fix it) 📱 And the biggest one… what to do if your entire biz is relying on social mediaThis one’s packed with real talk, actionable tips, and plenty of those "oh crap, that’s me!" moments. You are not alone, and there is a better way to run your marketing without burning out.🎉 PLUS: I’ve got a free webinar coming up that you do not want to miss It’s called: The Profitable Product Business Roadmap – Your 90-Day Plan to More Sales & Consistent Profit (Without Relying on Social Media) And yes, it’s as juicy as it sounds. I’ll walk you through exactly how to build a marketing machine that works while you sleep—so you’re not constantly stuck on the content hamster wheel.👉 Click here to register now or find the link in the show notes below.Resources & links from the episode:Register for the FREE 90-Day Roadmap WebinarRelated episodes: [What Should Be in Your Welcome Email Sequence][How to Build Your Email List for Your Product Biz]If this episode hit home, do me a little favor and share it with a biz bestie who needs it too! And of course, hit that subscribe button so you never miss a moment.Let’s go make marketing fun, profitable, and something you actually look forward to again.xo MelCourses mentioned in this podcast:Roadmap To ProfitNail Your Email MarketingSEO BoosterPinterest For Product BusinessesSupport the showI'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand.Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands).Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.
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Overcoming Money Blocks: A Path to Entrepreneurial Success. Guest series episode 5 Carla.
Send us a textIn this episode I interview Carla Townsend, a money mindset and success coach. We delve into practical advice for female entrepreneurs looking to overcome financial barriers, the critical role of money mindset in achieving business success, and how deep-rooted beliefs affect financial behaviors. Carla shares insights on identifying limiting beliefs, cultivating a healthy money mindset, and the importance of aligning one's business with personal values for sustainable success. They also discuss practical steps for improving financial attitudes and behaviors and the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive and empowering community.00:00 Introduction to the Lotco Business Podcast00:41 Special Guest: Carla Townsend on Money Mindset01:11 Understanding Money Mindset and Its Impact04:28 Behavioral Patterns and Money Blocks06:04 Pricing Strategies and Market Perception09:20 Emotional Spending and Financial Awareness14:41 Overcoming Self-Imposed Limitations23:31 Cultivating a Healthy Money Mindset28:08 Masterclass Invitation and Final Thoughts29:02 Building Confidence Through Unconfident Actions30:10 Surrounding Yourself with Success30:56 Triggers and Self-Reflection34:17 The Power of Perception38:38 Starting Points for Personal Growth43:15 Finding Joy and Authenticity in Work46:39 Knowing When to Pivot or Persevere51:10 Conclusion and ResourcesMelissa Robbins interviews Carla Townsend, a money mindset and success coach. They delve into practical advice for female entrepreneurs looking to overcome financial barriers, the critical role of money mindset in achieving business success, and how deep-rooted beliefs affect financial behaviors. Carla shares insights on identifying limiting beliefs, cultivating a healthy money mindset, and the importance of aligning one's business with personal values for sustainable success. They also discuss practical steps for improving financial attitudes and behaviors and the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive and empowering community.00:00 Introduction to the Lotco Business Podcast00:41 Special Guest: Carla Townsend on Money Mindset01:11 Understanding Money Mindset and Its Impact04:28 Behavioral Patterns and Money Blocks06:04 Pricing Strategies and Market Perception09:20 Emotional Spending and Financial Awareness14:41 Overcoming Self-Imposed Limitations23:31 Cultivating a Healthy Money Mindset28:08 Masterclass Invitation and Final Thoughts29:02 Building Confidence Through Unconfident Actions30:10 Surrounding Yourself with Success30:56 Triggers and Self-Reflection34:17 The Power oSupport the showI'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand.Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands).Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.
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From Dream to Design: How Kiralee Built Murkani Jewellery into a Global Brand
Send us a text💫 In this episode of thelotco business podcast, I sit down with Kiralee, the brilliant mind behind Murkani Jewellery. From an idea that lingered in her mind for years to a thriving global jewellery brand, Kiralee shares the ups, downs, and surprising twists of her journey.💍 We chat about:How Murkani Jewellery was born during Kiralee’s time living in Vietnam.The design process—sketching, sampling, and finding the right artisans.Navigating wholesale, retail, and international expansion.The role of storytelling and symbolism in her collections.Her passion for ethical production and giving back through anti-trafficking initiatives.The behind-the-scenes reality of running a jewellery business (including the challenges of manufacturing and selling internationally).🚀 Whether you're dreaming of launching a brand, scaling your product business, or just love a great founder story, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world insights!✨ Connect with Kiralee & Murkani Jewellery:Website: www.murkani.com.auInstagram: @murkanijewellery🎧 Listen now and get inspired to build a business with purpose and passion!Support the showI'm Mel Robbins! from @thelotco Want a Roadmap to Building a Profitable Product Business head here for directions! Looking for ongoing support to grow your brand and sell more of your product? Join the Product Business Growth Club here. Find more details at https://www.thelotco.com.au/Business Coach for product-based businesses. Teaching creative business women how to build a scalable and profitable million-dollar product business whether a physical Retail store or Brand.Over 25 years as a Retail and Wholesale Strategist (Sales and Marketing for Brands).Grab my 8 step checklist on building a profitable product business.
About build your profitable product business with mel robbins thelotco business podcast
thelotco business podcast is dedicated to helping businesses in the fashion, retail and design industries not just survive but also thrive!! It’s a show that brings you tips, tricks and strategies to help you as an entrepreneur start, manage, and grow your creative business. If you are a small business and feeling stuck on what to do next or how to actually kick start your idea, then tune in for some straightforward, practical business advice as well as interviews with inspiring females in the fashion, beauty and homewares space who will share not just what they do, but also how. We cover marketing, finance, motivation, mindset and so much more. Walk away inspired to know how to start your own business or take these tips to help you grow and love the business you have now. For coaching, courses and business advice with me check out link text or come say hi in the DMs on my socials @thelotco I can’t wait to help you guide you on your small business journey!!!
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