Ep. 103 Channelling Self-Worth for Success: Building Your Dream with Tash Oakley

In episode 103 of 'Working Hard, Hardly Working,' the host engages in a deep conversation with Tash Oakley, Co-founder of Monday Swimwear and author of 'Excessively Obsessed.' Tash's journey as an entrepreneur began with her parents' influence, as both were business owners, instilling in her the values of hard work and independence. Her international upbringing across Australia, the United States, and Hawaii broadened her perspective and ingrained a sense of confidence and ambition. Tash recounts her early work experiences, which ranged from bakery jobs to starting a video production company, highlighting the importance of gaining insights into various aspects of business operations.

Tash's entrepreneurial spirit led her to partner with her best friend, Devon, to create 'A Bikini A Day' – a blog that showcased their love for swimwear and eventually exploded into a viral sensation. This success laid the groundwork for Monday Swimwear, a brand that emerged from a clear gap in the market for inclusive, well-fitting swimwear. Tash and Devon's meticulous attention to detail and understanding of their audience's needs turned Monday Swimwear into a brand with a loyal customer base and a focus on body positivity.

Throughout the episode, Tash discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, including the necessity for personal sacrifice and the controversial notion that a level of selfishness is required for success. She candidly shares her views on the gendered expectations of entrepreneurs and the personal challenges women face in balancing their professional and personal lives. Tash also touches on the evolution of her role as a business owner, the importance of hiring key team members for growth, and the hard-earned lessons from navigating production issues and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her business.