Episode 18 Carmel Jane - I asked Carmel Jane how she became a millionaire...
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Episode 18 Carmel Jane - I asked Carmel Jane how she became a millionaire...
Notable Quotes
"You don't have a business until someone else is in the team."
"I'm okay with being different actually. I'm different to a lot of women."
"Resilience is crucial, and maybe it's just who I am."
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Get More InsightsEpisode Summary
In this podcast episode, Carmel Jane recounts her entrepreneurial journey, beginning with her move from New Zealand to London in the 1990s and her various jobs, including working in the banking sector and as a makeup artist. Eventually, she and her ex-husband started a wedding photography business, in which she discovered her knack for combining photography with business skills. However, her battle with breast cancer taught her the stark difference between running a business and just having a job.
Carmel's resilience shines through when she balances photographing weddings during her illness, driven by the need for income and commitment to clients. After recovering, she rebranded to focus on dance school photography, recognizing an untapped market as dance schools exploded in popularity. Her innovative approach combined commission incentives for schools and establishing a reputation for quality, transforming the standard business model in that space. Carmel expanded her operations significantly, eventually serving hundreds of dance schools and schools across the southeast.
At a pivotal moment in her career, when faced with the prospect of an exit, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining the legacy of her business and the welfare of her staff. Ultimately, she announced her sale to a buyer who shares her values and vision for the company, enabling her to step away more comfortably into new ventures.
Now involved in the care sector with business partners, Carmel reflects on how entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of facing challenges and helping others. She discusses the need for community among entrepreneurs, the importance of taking risks, and the value of finding mentors. She also touches on feminism in business, suggesting that women entrepreneurs face unique barriers but can thrive through support and shared experiences. Carmel shares insights on resilience and the mindset needed for success, encouraging others to take bold steps towards their goals.
Carmel's resilience shines through when she balances photographing weddings during her illness, driven by the need for income and commitment to clients. After recovering, she rebranded to focus on dance school photography, recognizing an untapped market as dance schools exploded in popularity. Her innovative approach combined commission incentives for schools and establishing a reputation for quality, transforming the standard business model in that space. Carmel expanded her operations significantly, eventually serving hundreds of dance schools and schools across the southeast.
At a pivotal moment in her career, when faced with the prospect of an exit, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining the legacy of her business and the welfare of her staff. Ultimately, she announced her sale to a buyer who shares her values and vision for the company, enabling her to step away more comfortably into new ventures.
Now involved in the care sector with business partners, Carmel reflects on how entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of facing challenges and helping others. She discusses the need for community among entrepreneurs, the importance of taking risks, and the value of finding mentors. She also touches on feminism in business, suggesting that women entrepreneurs face unique barriers but can thrive through support and shared experiences. Carmel shares insights on resilience and the mindset needed for success, encouraging others to take bold steps towards their goals.
Key Takeaways
- Resilience is crucial in entrepreneurship; overcoming challenges can lead to significant growth.
- Specializing in a niche market can set a business apart and lead to greater success.
- Building a strong team and delegating responsibilities is essential for growing and sustaining a business.
- Maintaining a positive work environment and empowering employees can create a thriving business culture.
- Community and networking are vital for entrepreneurs, providing support and accountability.
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