SUMMARY
This week, I'm speaking to Barbara Clark Ruiz, a multifaceted solopreneur known for her activewear designs and dog treat brand 'Lick You Silly.'
Barbara shares her journey from childhood in Portsmouth, Virginia, to designing for global brands like Ralph Lauren and Adidas, and collaborating with Venus Williams on her activewear brand Eleven by Venus.
During the pandemic, her dog treat business rose in rankings on the Amazon platform and this opened opportunities for growth and naturally, challenges that come with a sudden need to scale.
Emphasizing love and kindness, Barbara discusses her ventures in pitching reality shows, animated shorts, and working with Amazon's Accelerator for Black businesses.
Barbara works hard and plays hard. She also networks like a boss and takes care of her professional relationships. In our conversation, she also talks about personal experiences like meeting the Obamas, sharing a blanket with Star Wars creator, George Lucas in Oprah Winfrey's backyard and eating tacos with the Williams sisters.
TAKE AWAYS
-There are many pathways to a creative career
-Multiple streams of income are the way to go
-Easy does it - take your time and do what you love
LINKS AND MENTIONS
Barbara's Website - https://barbaraclarkeruiz.com
Barbara's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbaraclarkeruiz/
Barbara's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/barbaraclarkeruiz/
Lick You Silly - https://lickyousillypetproducts.com
Pratt Institute - https://pratt.edu
Give Butter Fundraising - https://givebutter.com
Savannah College of Art and Design: https://www.scad.edu/
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