EP78: Lessons Building a Luxury Fashion Business w/ Ayotude Rafui

What does it take to build a successful startup? To bring ideas into reality, to raise money, and bring people along? Ayotunde is the founder of JENDAYA a luxury fashion marketplace where consumers living across the globe with a deep appreciation for the richness of our African culture could enjoy a curated shopping experience. In this podcast, we talk about the Diaspora, the world's interest in Africa, and what it takes to bring an idea to reality. ______ 00:00 Intro 02:47 Do founders have to sacrifice their friendship? 03:41 Attaching your well-being to your work 06:15 Is Saudi Arabia like Dubai 08:14 What kind of founder is Ayo and Mike? 08:45 I've always been interested in fashion 11:34 How hard is it to quit your job and follow your passion? 12:46: You have to hustle 14:04 Have we had sleepless nights as founders 17:06 What is Jendaya 17:06  How do I get  Balenciagas from Africa 22:20 Is all the new focus in Africa exploitative 24:22 Kelly Rowland and Ayra Starr 32:03 Raising millions for your business 40:08 When did you know you were on to something? 48:28 Ayo gives Mike style advice