How does a law graduate pivot to revolutionize the ear-piercing industry? In this episode of FOMO Sapiens, host Patrick J. McGinnis interviews Anna Harman, co-founder of Studs, who shares her unexpected journey from Law to the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. Anna talks about how her frustration with traditional ear-piercing options sparked the idea for Studs, a brand that blends safety, style, and modernity. She reveals how her time at Bridgewater Associates honed her resilience and business savvy, enabling her to navigate the challenges of launching a startup just before a global pandemic. Listen in as Anna discusses the strategic decisions that kept Studs afloat during uncertain times, her innovative approach to customer experience, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership and market positioning in a competitive retail space. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn personal experiences into successful ventures.
Meet our guest:
With nearly a decade of extensive experience in operations, retail, finance, and consumer companies known for operational excellence, Anna Harman launched Studs with her co-founder Lisa Bubbers in November 2019. After noticing a gap in the piercing and retail market, they created Studs to offer a modern ear piercing and jewelry retail experience that prioritizes safety, encourages bold self-expression, and offers a trend-driven jewelry assortment — all at an accessible price point.
Anna Harman began her career as an attorney after graduating from Boston University Law School. After four years at Bridgewater Associates, she moved to New York City to join Fitz, an in-home service that organizes your closet and edits your wardrobe. Fitz was later sold to Tradesy, as the Head of Operations. From there, she became a Director at Store No. Eight, a standalone incubation arm within Walmart, where she focused on developing ideas and technologies that would inform the future of retail. Most recently, she served as the Interim Chief Customer Officer at Jetblack, a text-message-based personal shopping service.
For media and speaking requests, and to suggest a guest for the show, please email letsconnect@patrickmcginnis.com.
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