024: Scaling a Culture-First Brand in a Culture-Last Industry with Katy Spada

What happens when you build a brand rooted in memory, heritage, and purpose in an industry that rewards trends, polish, and sameness?In this conversation, Katy Spada, founder and CEO of Ary + Maan, shares how a bedtime request from her child turned into a purpose-driven business celebrating South Asian heritage through modern, cozy family pajamas. Katy talks about launching Diwali pajamas, bootstrapping her brand while balancing motherhood and a full-time career, and building a community of multicultural families around culture and belonging.We explore the emotional labor of representation, the unspoken bias in the “culture-last” fashion industry, and what it takes to lead with authenticity when the system wasn’t built for you. This episode is a story of identity, joy, and quiet defiance—the kind that changes what’s possible for women founders everywhere.About Katy SpadaKaty Spada is the Founder and CEO of Ary + Maan, a South Asian-inspired children’s apparel brand reimagining family matching through the lens of culture, belonging, and joy. A former finance and tech professional turned purpose-driven entrepreneur, Katy created Ary + Maan to help multicultural families celebrate their full identities. Her signature Diwali pajama collections have sparked a global conversation about representation, heritage, and inclusivity in fashion.Connect with KatyWebsite: https://aryandmaan.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryandmaanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katyspadaExposing the Hidden Reality is a weekly gathering for women who are ready to get real, ask better questions, and push back against the biases and barriers that shape our lives, work, and leadership.Here, we:✨ Dive into bold conversations with brilliant women✨ Spotlight untold stories and truths✨ Challenge hidden systems and social norms✨ Share practical insights—with a side of sass and sisterhoodThis isn’t just a podcast—it’s a platform for our collective voice.Have you lived through something that exposed hidden biases, reshaped how you lead, or changed the way you see yourself and the world?Women and allies who are ready to speak truth, to name what's been silenced, and to spark change through authentic conversation are always invited to join us so we can hear your story. This is a platform for our collective and individual voices; where your voice matters and your experience can light the way for others navigating similar terrain.Apply Here: https://exposingthehiddenreality.com/ApplyConnect with Exposing the Hidden Reality:https://exposingthehiddenreality.comLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/exposingthehiddenrealityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/exposingthehiddenrealityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/exposingthehiddenrealityConnect with Annette Garsteck:https://www.annettegarsteck.comConnect with Sandra Wint:https://www.me-her-us.comPhotography of Sandra Wint + Annette Garsteck taken by Katie Garlock, Portrations