Episode 54: On Building A Sustainable Business with Local Manufacturers and Working With Your Life Partner – Coco Flip’s Kate Stokes’ Journey on running a business that lasts

In this interview, Fiona talks to Kate Stokes, owner of Coco Flip - a Melbourne-based furniture and lighting design brand. Kate shares what the challenges are when running a product-based business and running a business with her life partner while raising small children, particularly during 2020. Fiona and Kate also talk about why it’s important to work with local manufactures and how doing so has helped Coco Flip build a tight-knit and loyal community.  Topics discussed in this episode: IntroductionCatching UpCovid's Impact on The BusinessWhat is Coco Flip?On Kate's UpbringingWorking with Your Life PartnerCultivating Relationships wit Local ManufacturerKey Lessons in Running The BusinessHer Mentors, Book and Course RecommendationsOn Finding StockistsHer Mantra During Challenging TimesWorking As A Small TeamOn Doing Things DifferentlyPlatforms or Tools For The BusinessKate's Most Proud MomentConnecting with KateConclusion Resources mentioned in this episode:  Coco Flip161A Heidelberg RdNorthcote VIC [email protected] Episode transcript: To view a full transcript please visit mydailybusinesscoach.com/podcast/54 Special thanks to HoneyBook for sponsoring this podcast. HoneyBook helps independent businesses manage everything from enquiries and contracts to invoices and payments, all in one place. Use this link and code FIONA to receive 30% off until the end of September 2026. Want to get your #smallbusiness sorted in 2026/ 27? Check out our 1:1 business coaching packages from a one-off session to 6-months of coaching. Want to know more about AI and how to harness it for your small businesS? Join our new monthly AI chat for small business owners. You can join anytime at www.mydailybusiness.com/AIchat Try out my fave AI tool, Poppy AI here and use discount code FIONA. We also love Descript. Connect and get in touch with My Daily Business via our shop, freebies, award-winning books, Instagram and Tik Tok.