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Beyond Luxury

Beyond Luxury
Author: Carlota Rodben
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© Carlota Rodben
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Dive into the evolving definition of luxury in today's rapidly changing world. Hosted by Carlota Rodben, author of acclaimed industry book "Beyond Luxury: The Promise of Emotion," the podcast aims to challenge conventional notions of luxury by exploring its intersections with society, technology, experience, and sustainability.
The podcast extends Carlota's book and goes beyond it by inviting thought leaders from various sectors like fashion, beauty, wellness, travel, hospitality, art, and technology to continue the conversation.
Join and be a part of creating the future of luxury!
The podcast extends Carlota's book and goes beyond it by inviting thought leaders from various sectors like fashion, beauty, wellness, travel, hospitality, art, and technology to continue the conversation.
Join and be a part of creating the future of luxury!
44 Episodes
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What if we told you AI adoption will make interactions more human than ever?For years, the industry feared that embracing technology could dilute brand value and displace human expertise. Yet in today’s landscape, it is precisely the intelligent integration of technology that allows brands to stay relevant, elevate their equity, and enrich their creative and operational excellence.This time, Carlota Rodben was interviewed on the Experience Vision stage by Andrea Pavon, External Advisory Partner at Beyond Luxury Group and Founder at Rune Futures, unveiling key insights drawn from leading brands such as Dior, Hennessy, Cambour, Ferrari, and Audemars Piguet, among others, all sharing their perspectives on the opportunities that lie ahead at the intersection of luxury and technology.They explored:-From fear to overstimulation and lack of confidence: the three barriers luxury brands have have acontinue to face when approaching technology.-The delicate balance of blending craftsmanship and innovation while safeguarding heritage and identity.-Why the most disruptive impact of technology on luxury may already belong to the past, and why its most transformative potential is only beginning to unfold.-How technology is reshaping every touchpoint: from hyper-personalized digital experiences led by brands like Doji, to more efficient and sustainable supply chains throughout the entire product lifecycle.-How an industry once positioned behind technology is now revealing its true strength: turning the pursuit of dreams into meaningful realities.-The growing imperative for qualitative, agile intelligence to remain ahead of the curve, especially in an era oversaturated with information.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Geoffrey Perez, Head of Luxury at Snap Inc., shares how luxury is evolving beyond products into experiences, emotions, and deep cultural relevance. He explains how new generations seek meaning, personalization, and emotional value, not just status or objects. With his experience leading luxury partnerships at Snapchat, Geoffrey breaks down how digital platforms offer new ways for brands to build intimacy, craft narratives, and create immersive moments that resonate with younger audiences.He explores how technology allows luxury brands to stay human and personal at scale, how XR is redefining brand interaction, and why exclusivity is no longer just about scarcity, but about relevance and timing. Geoffrey also reflects on the importance of brand purpose, cultural sensitivity, and the art of crafting desire in a fast-moving digital world.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
TL;DR• Ines Alpha talks about her collaborations where creativity thrives within clear constraints. She values working with teams that respect her artistic vision, balancing freedom with specific direction.• Her projects explore blending physical face wear with augmented reality (AR), creating a unique fusion of 3D makeup and digital experiences. Ines worked on both the physical design and AR elements to make the two worlds interact seamlessly.• AR makeup allows for new forms of self-expression, enabling people to explore different identities digitally. It offers more freedom compared to traditional beauty standards, allowing people to experiment without physical boundaries.• Ines envisions a future where AR makeup could be featured at high-profile fashion events, with both physical and digital beauty merging for immersive, forward-thinking experiences.• The evolution of AR technology and social media platforms is shaping the future of beauty, making new forms of creative expression possible, and opening up opportunities for innovative collaborations.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this podcast episode, Ines Alpha, a leader in the world of 3D makeup and augmented reality, shares insights into her creative journey, particularly her collaboration with Studio Halia. Ines discusses how she blends the physical and digital realms, emphasizing her passion for constraints in design that lead to true innovation. She highlights her work where physical face wear and makeup are enhanced by AR, allowing users to customize their appearance in real-time. Ines explains the importance of collaborating with expert teams to push the boundaries of what’s possible in AR, especially in creating highly interactive and personalized digital makeup experiences.She also touches on the community aspect of her work, explaining how AR allows people to explore new identities and self-expression, often in spaces where traditional self-presentation might be limited. Looking ahead, Ines reflects on the future of augmented reality in major beauty and fashion events, foreseeing a shift where digital transformations will be just as prominent as physical ones. As technology evolves, she envisions a growing connection between the digital and physical worlds, with new opportunities to create more immersive and expressive experiences for her audience.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
TL;DR• Yalda's personal journey highlights how chronic inflammation is at the heart of many widespread health issues—from autoimmune diseases to conditions like cancer, thyroid imbalances, and even depression, proving just how essential it is to address inflammation for long-term health.• The Eat Burn Sleep method focuses on three pillars: food, movement, and mental wellness, designed to reduce inflammation without the need for extreme or restrictive diets.• Her approach challenges common wellness trends, such as the vegan diet or high-intensity workouts, emphasizing sustainable, evidence-based practices tailored to individual needs.• Health and wellness are becoming increasingly recognized as essential luxury pillars, with people prioritizing long-term vitality and holistic well-being over temporary fixes.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Yalda Alaoui, a leading expert in chronic inflammation and nutrition, shares her journey from the corporate world to becoming a top figure in health and wellness. After battling autoimmune diseases, Yalda spent over a decade researching lifestyle changes to heal herself, discovering the link between chronic inflammation and many modern diseases. This led to the creation of Eat Burn Sleep, a platform focused on managing inflammation through food, movement, and mental wellness, offering a balanced lifestyle that doesn’t require perfection but aims for sustainable health.Yalda emphasizes a flexible approach, allowing occasional indulgences while reducing inflammation. Her method has helped thousands, from chronic disease sufferers to doctors who now support her approach. She also discusses how wellness has evolved into a luxury, with more people seeking long-term health solutions over quick fixes. Yalda believes the future of wellness will focus on natural, unprocessed food and a slower, more balanced lifestyle.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
TL;DR• Blake shares the importance of team dynamics in early-stage investment, stressing that a capable, well-aligned team is more important than a great idea at the outset.• We delve into how the scalability of business models, particularly in the luxury and tech space, is crucial; and luxury brands need to adapt quickly, with a focus on profitability rather than growth at any cost.• Blake highlights that the future of digital luxury will be about blending traditional luxury with digital innovations, creating immersive, interactive experiences for consumers that go beyond transactions. • AI and blockchain technologies will play a key role in protecting IP, verifying authenticity, and enabling the co-creation of luxury items with consumers, offering both scalability and personalized luxury experiences.• Luxury will evolve to allow for more consumer-driven design, where users interact with brands on a deeper, more personal level,such as co-creating fashion with the brand’s heritage and digital assets.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Blake Lezenski talks about his approach to early-stage investing, focusing on the importance of team dynamics and market validation. He highlights that a strong, cohesive team is crucial, even if the idea is still in its infancy. Blake also discusses the shift in digital luxury, stressing the need for immersive, self-expressive experiences in the industry, with AI and blockchain playing key roles in the transformation. He envisions a future where AI helps brands create personalized luxury experiences at scale while ensuring IP protection through innovative solutions like AI-powered provenance verification. Blake concludes by exploring how Web3 and digital fashion can empower consumers to interact with luxury brands in new ways, creating a more dynamic and scalable luxury ecosystem.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
TL;DR• Kai Henry’s career journey started with managing iconic figures like Snoop Dogg and David Banner, providing him with firsthand experience in understanding the intersection of culture and commerce.• He shares his expertise in developing lifestyle brands such as Beats by Dre, SkeeTV, and Sol Republic creating authentic connections between brands and their audiences through cultural relevance and innovation.• The rise of digital culture and technologies like NFTs and Web3 are reshaping the landscape, and Kai emphasizing how these tools offer brands opportunities to innovate while staying true to their core identities.• We delve into Fewture Co, and how Kai aims to support talent, brands, and executives in adapting to the evolving digital frontier, helping them authentically engage with new technologies and culture shiftsWant to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Kai Henry, the visionary behind Fewture Co, shares his journey from managing cultural icons like Snoop Dogg and David Banner to his current work reshaping the creator economy. Kai’s unique ability to blend corporate strategy with cultural insight has allowed him to innovate organizational infrastructures for today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.Kai reflects on his early career working with Snoop Dogg, drawing inspiration from the rapper’s ability to diversify his brand across music, fashion, and other industries. This experience shaped Kai’s approach to talent management and brand development, blending creativity with business savvy.Kai helped build iconic brands like Beats By Dre, SkeeTV, En Noir, and Sol Republic, serving as Chief Creative and Strategist. His work was pivotal in establishing a solid reputation for nurturing talent and crafting authentic, culturally relevant brands.Now, with Fewture Co, Kai aims to support talent, brands, and executives in navigating the next frontier of the internet, creating spaces for authentic engagement and collaboration through new technologies. His goal is to empower the next generation of creators to build sustainable, multifaceted brands.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
TL;DR- Brittany Kaiser advocates for delaying social media access until university age, aiming to protect young people’s mental health. She points to the troubling links between social media use and rising mental health challenges, including eating disorders and increased suicide rates among youth.- We delve into blockchain as a game-changer for data ownership, empowering individuals to securely control, profit from, and share their personal data with full transparency, helping to safeguard against data manipulation. Brittany shares that blockchain’s traceability could have prevented the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal, where lack of oversight allowed for massive misuse of personal data. - We learn about the The Chateaushi Project and how it merges blockchain technology with the preservation of historic estates, creating a sustainable, community-driven model for restoring cultural landmarks. - The Chateaushi model goes beyond preservation by integrating community engagement. It offers experiences like sustainable agriculture, wellness programs, and fine dining, helping create a new, sustainable financial ecosystem for historic estates.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, we sit down with Brittany Kaiser, the Cambridge Analytica whistleblower turned data rights activist, to uncover the urgent issues shaping our digital future. From exposing the dark side of data misuse to advocating for ethical AI and blockchain solutions, Brittany shares her mission to empower individuals with control over their own information.We dive into the hidden dangers of social media on mental health, especially for younger generations, and why Brittany believes delaying access to these platforms could be life-changing. She also reveals how blockchain technology can revolutionize data ownership, giving people the power to monetize their own digital footprint and build a more transparent and equitable online world.But Brittany’s story doesn’t stop at data ethics. Her latest venture, Chateaushi, merges her passion for technology and historic preservation, using blockchain to sustain and restore iconic estates in a way that redefines investment and cultural heritage.This is an eye-opening conversation about the future of digital rights, ethical innovation, and the power of technology to shape a more just society. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that challenges everything we know about privacy, ownership, and trust in the digital age.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
Finally, I am sharing my story! • I’ll share how moving 17 times by age 27 shaped my identity as a global citizen and polyglot. • Pivoting from international relations to diving headfirst into the beauty and luxury industry despite facing a ton of rejection. • Writing Beauty as it Is at age 22, interviewing top beauty leaders, and opening unexpected doors. • My time at Chanel, where I created and led an innovation team that merged technology, experience and luxury in new ways. • During the pandemic, I authored Beyond Luxury: The Promise of Emotion, exploring how luxury could evolve in a rapidly changing world. • In 2023, I took a leap of faith, leaving Chanel to pursue entrepreneurship, driven by my vision to transform the luxury industry.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode,I , Carlota Rodben, share my unconventional life journey that brought me to the luxury world. Growing up as a “third-culture kid” and dancing ballet around the globe, my path has been anything but predictable. I open up about how I broke into the industry by publishing my first book at age 22 and second by 26, turning rejection and owning my own path into a powerful catalyst for success.Now, as an entrepreneur, I’m on a mission to redefine what luxury means—blending innovation, emotion, and identity to shape the future of the industry. From navigating a global upbringing to taking bold leaps of faith, this is a story of resilience, serendipity, and the power of embracing the unknown. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that invites you to rethink luxury and the opportunities it holds for the future.Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of AI and its transformative potential for the luxury industry with David Klingbeil.
AI and the Luxury Industry
• AI has been around for decades, but its recent surge in power and accessibility now allows luxury brands to leverage it at scale.
• Luxury executives are no longer questioning whether AI is important, but rather how to apply it meaningfully within their businesses.
• Platforms like Submarine AI provide a structured approach to trend analysis, helping brands quickly access valuable insights without wading through vast amounts of unstructured data.
Creativity and Emotional Connection
• AI tools can inspire creative work by surfacing trends and insights, but they don’t replace the emotional connection that defines the luxury industry’s unique appeal.
• With AI, unexpected trends—such as “fragrance maxing”—can be uncovered, enabling luxury brands to tap into grassroots consumer behaviors for more impactful campaigns.
Next-Generation Leaders
• The next generation of luxury leaders is not just tech-savvy but entrepreneurial, eager to use AI and other technologies to disrupt and innovate in fresh, meaningful ways.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of AI and its transformative potential for the luxury industry with David Klingbeil, founder of Submarine AI. We explore how AI is not just about data but about unlocking powerful insights that drive creativity and strategic decision-making. David shares his vision of AI as a tool to enhance—not replace—human creativity, showing how it helps luxury brands stay ahead by quickly identifying emerging trends.
David also highlights the incredible potential of the next generation of luxury leaders, who are already harnessing AI to build more innovative and emotionally connected brand experiences. As he explains, AI offers a unique opportunity to blend data-driven insights with emotional storytelling, creating unparalleled opportunities for growth and connection. Don’t miss this engaging conversation on how AI is shaping the future of luxury and why now is the perfect time to embrace this transformative technology.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
In this episode, we dive into the ever-evolving world of luxury retail with Christophe Caïs, CEO of CXG, a leading consulting firm specializing in customer experience.
Christophe emphasizes the critical role of emotional intention in crafting a signature experience. He explains that luxury, particularly in the context of selling luxury products, deeply engages emotions. While every purchase is influenced by emotion, a luxury purchase is uniquely driven by a heightened emotional connection. As he underscores, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." His insight highlights the profound impact of creating memorable, emotion-driven experiences.
Christophe sheds light on the importance of employee satisfaction, framing it as an outcome rather than a starting point. He stresses the need to focus on foundational factors:
How much training do employees receive?
Is it effective and meaningful?
How much coaching and one-on-one support do they get from their managers?
Ensuring a well-rounded and supportive employee ecosystem—one that aligns with the brand’s mission—is essential for enabling employees to deliver exceptional customer experiences. He also reveals how CXG uncovers untapped talent, fosters collaborative teams, and leverages data to shape the future of retail.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation that explores the challenges and opportunities luxury brands face in today’s fast-changing landscape.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
Step into the world where experience, tech, and purpose redefine the future of luxury. In Season 3 of the Beyond Luxury Podcast, Carlota Rodben takes you on a journey through thought-provoking conversations with the brightest minds shaping the luxury landscape. From industry whistleblowers and tech visionaries to fashion and culture pioneers and wellness experts, this season is packed with bold ideas and transformative stories.
Get ready to explore topics like digital fashion, the future of customer experience, redefining health & wellness as luxury, and the power of technology in creating transparent, augmented, and purpose-driven brands. Every episode challenges conventions, sparks curiosity, and offers insights into the evolving meaning of luxury.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a current or future leader of the luxury industry, a creative professional, or simply passionate about the future, Season 3 will inspire and inform you. The revolution of luxury starts here—don’t miss it.
🎙️ Beyond Luxury Season 3 brings you a new episode every week. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation!
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Sign up for our Weekly Beyond Luxury Substack and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for even more insights and inspiration.
Join us to explore the transformative power of digital product passports and connected items with insights from Natasha Frank CEO of Eon, Pierre-Nicolas Hurstel CEO of Arianee, and Jake Gajdamowicz CEO of Uniqly. They share their unique journeys and how their expertise is driving the integration of intelligence into products, enhancing value and traceability in the luxury market.We'll uncover the evolving role of blockchain and NFC technology in creating secure, interactive products, paving the way for a new paradigm in customer engagement and sustainability. As we approach the EU legislation mandating digital product passports by 2027, our discussion highlights the importance of brands adapting to these innovations.Takeaways: Digital product passports are revolutionizing customer engagement and sustainability by embedding intelligence into products. Blockchain and NFC technology are key to creating secure, interactive products that support circular business models. Upcoming EU legislation will require brands to implement digital product passports by 2027, signaling a major shift in the industry. The future of product ID monetization and customer engagement lies in digital IDs, with brands exploring new opportunities through smart clothes and connected objects. Cross-departmental collaboration and scalable solutions are essential for brands looking to thrive in this digital transformation.Bonus Podcast Episode from the Future+ Paris Event.Future+, is a curated global network for founders, visionaries and disruptors across creative, culture and technology facilitating connections, collaborations, education and access to events, networking, content and insights.
Join us as we welcome Bonnie Langedijk, the visionary founder of HURS, a groundbreaking platform combining stylish aesthetics with impactful content. Raised in Amsterdam by parents in advertising, Bonnie's creative journey led her from creating her first magazine at age 8 to significant roles at Hearst Magazines and Net-A-Porter in London.
Bonnie shares her mission to expand representation in women's media, moving beyond familiar faces to spotlight exceptional women in various fields. She challenges traditional interview questions that limit women to specific topics, advocating for a more inclusive approach.
Discover how HURS organizes intimate, salon-inspired events, fostering cross-disciplinary conversations among women. Bonnie discusses the glamorization of entrepreneurship and the unique challenges female founders face, emphasizing a new definition of luxury focused on emotional connection and identity. Tune in to learn how HURS is redefining what luxury means in the digital era for women everywhere.
Bonnie's background in creativity and storytelling, combined with her experience at Hearst and Net-A-Porter, has made her an in-demand creative consultant and art director. She has worked with brands like Farfetch, COS, and Vogue Netherlands, bringing a unique perspective to the evolving media landscape.
TLDR:
HURS combines style and impactful content.
Expands representation in women's media, spotlighting diverse women.
Challenges traditional narratives, advocating for inclusivity.
Hosts intimate, salon-inspired events fostering cross-disciplinary conversations.
Redefines luxury, emphasizing emotional connection and identity.