Next Level Humanity | Esin Akan | Product Philosopy & Innovation | Business Growth | Sustainability

In this episode of Next Level Humanity Podcast, Masters Unplugged, Nev Cap welcomes Esin Akan, a brand guru and the founder of her eponymous luxury handbag label. Esin shares her evolution from designing for industry giants like Burberry to launching a purpose-driven brand that challenges the traditional luxury market, discussing how she creates versatile, sustainable designs that empower busy women without the exorbitant "logo" markup.We dive deep into:Esin’s realization that women were overpaying for logos and impractical designs, sparking the creation of a "smart luxury" alternative that balances quality with price.The groundbreaking 10-year journey to developing "Olive Leather," a biodegradable, durable material created from olive oil industry by-products to replace plastic-heavy vegan alternatives.How to bridge the gap between high-end aesthetics and sustainability, including a zero-waste policy, using leather scraps for accessories, and planting trees for every bag sold.The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship: Why leveraging your existing strengths and network is safer than starting from scratch.Navigating the challenges of a solo founder, from funding and production to breaking into major US retailers like Nordstrom and Macy's.Redefining success and leadership: Moving beyond the "creative" mindset to embrace the commercial realities of scaling a global business.Practical advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs on finding mentors, avoiding costly early mistakes, and solving problems with a clear "Why".Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone passionate about sustainable innovation, this episode offers a masterclass in building a soulful brand in a competitive industry.