Clean Living: From Diagnosis to Designer Clothing

Today’s guest, Gwen Gardner is an absolute force of resilience and heart. She’s the Chief Chick, founder, and designer behind Simply Chickie Clothing — a brand born from a week that changed everything: a breast cancer diagnosis and the discovery she was pregnant… all in the same week.What followed was a radical lifestyle shift, a commitment to clean living, and the creation of a company that blends humor, heart, and health-conscious values into adorable organic baby clothes.We’re diving into Gwen’s story of healing, entrepreneurship, and what it really means to live with intention — for yourself, your family, and the future.Let’s get into it.What happens when your world turns upside down in a single week? For Gwen Gardner, founder of Simply Chicking Clothing, learning she was pregnant one day and diagnosed with breast cancer the next became the catalyst for complete transformation. Instead of surrendering to fear, Gwen made a powerful declaration: "There is no way I'm going to die while creating life."This pivotal moment sparked a journey into clean living that changed everything. As Gwen researched ways to protect her health and her growing baby, she discovered the shocking truth about conventional cotton - that it's treated with seven carcinogenic chemicals originally developed as nerve agents during wartime. This revelation led her to create Simply Chicking Clothing, an organic baby clothing company featuring humorous, gender-neutral designs printed with eco-friendly inks on certified organic cotton.Twenty years later, Gwen's products have become legendary for their longevity. Parents regularly share stories of passing these garments through multiple children or even saving them for grandchildren. While initially more expensive than conventional options, these heirloom-quality pieces prove economical over time while keeping textiles out of landfills.Building a business as a single mother required incredible resilience and community support. Gwen shares practical wisdom about finding your tribe, maximizing productive hours (her "six to nine club" in the morning), and the power of asking for help. Her perspective on confidence - that it parallels vulnerability in recognizing our shared human struggles - offers comfort to anyone facing challenges.Whether you're navigating a health crisis, considering entrepreneurship, or simply trying to make more conscious lifestyle choices, Gwen's story demonstrates how our greatest challenges can reveal our true purpose. Join us for this powerful conversation about resilience, clean living, and creating positive change through conscious business practices.Website: www.simplychickieclothing.com    Follow on Instagram Twitter Pinterest and Facebook @simplychickieFor more Divas That Care Network Episodes visit www.divasthatcare.com