01. How I Built a Jewelry Brand From My Livingroom To A Global Empire - Cathy Pope
Description
In this episode, I chat with the amazing Cathy Pope, a jewelry designer who has built her business from the ground up with creativity and passion. Cathy shares how her journey from TV stylist to entrepreneur has been a slow and steady process, filled with meaningful milestones—like the time Jacinda Ardern wore her jewelry while meeting the Queen. We talk about her love for natural gemstones and how she celebrates their imperfections, making each piece unique. Cathy’s designs reflect her belief in individuality, encouraging women to mix her pieces with their own heirlooms for a personal, timeless style.
About our guest:
Cathy Pope is a New Zealand-based jewellery designer who combines her background as a stylist and dressmaker with a passion for bold, distinctive designs. She launched Cathy Pope Jewellery in 2011 as a response to a market flooded with overpriced or mass-produced pieces, creating her first signature design—a chunky choker necklace with a bold stone on a gold chain. Inspired by annual trips to Jaipur, India, Cathy sources gemstones and collaborates directly with artisans to craft unique, ethically made collections. Each piece reflects her love for individuality, celebrating the beauty of imperfections and personal expression. Cathy’s jewellery empowers women to embrace timeless style over fleeting trends while maintaining affordability and authenticity.
Follow Our Guest:
Website: https://cathypope.co.nz/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathypopejewellery/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cathypopejewellery/
Follow Us On:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
Episode Highlights:
00:00 - Episode Trailer
05:13 - The Slow Build-Up of Success
06:06 - Taking risks doesn’t have to be dramatic
08:55 - Creativity vs. Business Structure
10:54 - The Importance of Self-Care
14:12 - Finding Inspiration in India
18:51 - The Perfection of Imperfection
20:34 - Authenticity in Personal Branding
22:31 - Rebelling Against Trends
25:57 - Staying authentic without pressure to conform
29:11 - Building Confidence in Your Craft
31:35 - Learning happens by doing
35:32 - Not everything has to be perfect