2. From Lab-grown Diamonds to Royal Endorsements: Jessica Warch on Kimai’s rise, Meghan Markle, and Dragons' Den

This week’s Muse is Jessica Warch, Forbes 30 under 30, and CEO and co-founder of Kimai, a lab-grown diamond company she bootstrapped with her childhood best friend and GIA certified gemologist Sidney Neuhas, with the aim of reinventing an old industry with sustainability and transparency. In this episode, Jessica takes us through Kimai's journeyfrom its early days, sharing how the idea became a reality and the pivotal moment when Meghan Markle became the first royal to wear lab-grown diamonds, catapulting the brand into the spotlight. We discuss the challenges of finding the right investors, building a business with a best friend, and navigating the delicate balance between sacrifice and freedom in entrepreneurship. Jessica also shares insights from her recent experience on Dragon’s Den and reflects on the key lessons she’s learned along the way. You can find Kimai on social media here and browse for unique jewelry on their website here.Seat of the Muse IG: ⁠@seatofthemuse⁠  Music produced by ⁠Yossif Mahmoud