more2marketing_creatingsustainableproducts
Susan: [00:00:00] More to marketing.
Welcome to Modern Marketing, a podcast on product marketing, and everything in between. I’m your host, Susan, and I’m here with Teeny. Teeny here is a fabulous person who has done some magical things in her industry, and I find it absolutely amazing watching the growth of what she’s doing with her hobby.
But first off, I’m gonna talk to her and find out exactly what she does today for her day. So what do you do
Thieny: Teenie? Um, so as a day job, what I do is I’m a podiatrist as well as a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but mainly I do acupuncture. And when I do that, it’s all about, um, helping people be able to move and feel better.
But like, um, like use from before we were having a chat, I, I like things to be quite raw. So raw being like, [00:01:00] um, being authentic and being genuine because I think from there you’re able to like maybe give like a proper treatment because you fully understand No, well, not fully understand, but like, You kind of get like a better understanding from where the patient, you’re connected.
Yes. Yeah. Connected to what the like client or patient is coming from. And like, when they feel that like they don’t have to put a face on, then like, um, they, they’re more willing to like, , you know, open up and tell them really what’s going on, and like you can make progress from there, I think. Yeah.
Susan: Yep. I absolutely love that.
Yeah. And being able to have that connection with your customer means that they’re gonna have a better treatment with you too. Yeah, because they’re also being their authentic self with you. Yeah. Yeah. Now from this, I know that you have a side hustle slash hobby. I think this is more of a side hustle myself.
Yeah. Um, and, and that’s, that’s why we’re actually talking today because I’ve been watching you [00:02:00] before we even talked about this on social media and seeing these amazing images coming through. Yeah. So what is this project that you’ve got going? Um,
Thieny: so like, Yeah, so I’ve been doing this like for, well, it’s been like, yeah, like a, a hobby.
Um, I make shoes and I make, um, bags or, well, like I only started making bags, but, so I’ve been making shoes for quite a while, but like, um, it’s just been like something I do for fun. Yeah. Um, I haven’t really like gotten into. The money side, it’s still more like fun. I did do it one time, like the money side, but you failed dramatically
Yeah. And that’s ok I think because like, you know, you can fail I think because from there you can actually maybe learn from something a little bit. Yes. But um, yeah, so I think that’s good because like, um,
yeah, you just like do something that’s [00:03:00] creative on the side, I think. And yeah, it’s.
Susan: You haven’t, you haven’t. You’re underselling this, the shoes, they are sustainable. They are.
Thieny: Um, so with the shoes, like, so with the shoes, sorry, I totally interrupted you. But like with the shoes, like they’re,
it’s been a hard journey. The shoes really like, um, I price them at. When, if I do make it into a hustle, I price it at the higher like, um, price because like it’s. Time consuming and it’s just made by me and everything is like custom, so I have to go through all the processes. That’s why it’s so expensive.
The other thing, um, is like, I do work also, so that’s why it’s so expensive, sustainable wise, is I try to like, make everything as waste free as possible. Mm-hmm. and, um, yeah. So like when I say [00:04:00] waste free is like, um, with the shoes, it’s more really. . Yeah. Try to make it waste free as possible. Like I try to reduce, like I’ll make it only if someone tells, like, puts an order in, so I’m not going to keep doing it over and over again.
So I have like a whole bunch of like stuff, you know? And then, um, with the totes, it’s more like sustainable just because like, um, I like to like get people to like reuse their old clothes so that you can make like into the toast. So that way it’s like, Sustainable in that way. Yeah. Yeah.
Susan: And the, the beautiful thing about sustainability is it’s something we all need to do more of.
Mm-hmm. , like just some recent stats that I was reading before, I’ll, I’ll just read these out. 1 million plastic bottles are sold every minute. Yeah. 1 million plastic bottles every minute, and then 5 trillion pieces of plastic are floating around in the ocean. Mm-hmm. . And that’s just plastic. Yeah. We go into clothes, [00:05:00] people are, , 80 billion new pieces of clothing every year and 3.9 billion tons of food.
But it’s not, it’s not all being used. At least a third of it is being lost or wasted. So there is a huge consumer demand now for more sustainable lifestyle, and that’s where you are coming in with this circular design, a sustainable fashion, because that is what’s on, it’s on trend at the moment, but it’s also what is.
and that’s what I thought was really magical about your products you’re designing. Yes. You’re still at that beginning phase, which is super exciting. Mm-hmm. , but you are making custom beautiful shoes. Handmade and sustainable and waste free as possible per order. And that is just magical on its own.
Mm-hmm. . And then with the bags themselves, they’re completely recycled. Recycled materials. Mm-hmm. . And this is where you started talking about on your site. Peter, so p e t a [00:06:00] about how, um, it’s, it’s certified there as well because of
Thieny: what you Yeah, I don’t have a site just yet. So everything is ordered through Instagram.
Mm-hmm. So, um, Peter approved being, um, yeah, it’s like animal approved, just because I have like a friend who is like, Huge animal advocate and she was drilling me . She was like drilling me and I was just like, oh my God. Yeah. So in that sense, I was just like, ok. Mm-hmm. . If she is okay with it, I think it’s, she’ll be fine.
But if anyone was to approach me to ask me more about. , is it animal friendly or whatever. I’m more than happy. I’m very open for you to like, come at me, come at me, , ask questions.
Susan: We love it. Yeah. Um, so I’ll ask you another one then. Yeah. So, when you first decided, cuz you, you love what you do for your job, your podiatry and helping people and the medicine and everything, [00:07:00] what, what was that tipping point that made you decide that you wanted to actually create your own product?
Thieny: Well, um, I’ve always actually been like creative, but like the product side, I always thought of that like from the beginning, like even during like my studies and because like in high school I was more of the kind of like the weed, um, artsy person. . There’s nothing wrong with that. I was as well. Yeah. But, um, yeah, so um, when I went into uni and then I was just like, you know what, like, Podiatry.
Everyone seemed to be like, really? Not really. Like, it’s good. I like it. The whole seriousness and everything. Yeah. But like, um, I felt like my creative side was kind of like slumping. Mm-hmm. . And you know, like, that’s why I was just like, ah, I need to deal. Like, I feel like I’m gonna go mad or like crazy. An outlet.
Yeah, because you know how like everything is like, You know, you, everything [00:08:00] is so clinical and everything’s like, you gotta do this, you gotta do this, you gotta do this. And it’s just like, oh my God, this is like killing me. You know? It’s just like everything is like, and it’s just like, some people, it’s fine, you know?
Mm-hmm. , it’s like totally fine. And then like, um, yeah, so I just needed to do something like, More creative. And I think that that’s suited because like not only is it creative, but you have to like do all these measurements and all that. Okay. That’s a bit tedious also, but like .
Susan: Um, but that fits into your processes that you already know Yeah.
You first established.
Thieny: Yep. Yeah. Yeah. So it’s like, yeah, that’s right. And like, um, you get that outlet where you can actually just like do something that’s like nice looking, oh, well at least like, I don’t know. It’s like a trial. It’s like a trial and error, but it. , it’s at least something that you can like let loose on sort of, yeah.
Yep. So that’s why I like did that on the side. Yeah. Mm-hmm.
Susan: And when you, when you decided all this, how did you come up with the name? [00:09:00] What, what made you prompt for what you called yourself in the end?
Thieny: Yeah, so my name at the mo moment is called Made by a Corby. So made by is because like I like to travel and like all my patients everywhere.
Every time they ask me, they’ll. , where do you practice or where do you work? And they’re always asking me, I’m like, I’m a little bit everywhere . And even like if I go traveling or something, like, um, I’m always a bit like everywhere. I don’t stay in the same spot. Like, well, I, I do, but it’s like, it, it’s very like ironic because like sometimes I’m like, you know, very.
You might say stoic, like I . Yeah, like this, like heavy lump that’s just like sits there and refuses to do anything outta stubbornness or, you know, . So that, or like other times I’m like, you can never get me because I’m just like anywhere. Like, or everywhere. So [00:10:00] that’s why I said like, I didn’t wanna like put like a like hard thing.
So I was like made by and then like it. and yeah, you can sort of like see where I’m trying to head out, but like, I haven’t like gone into that point yet. So, um, the other part is like made by, as in like, do you know how usually is like made in Australia? Yes. Or made in Sydney or made in anywhere. So it is something like that.
So you can sort of like, maybe like, but that’s in the future. But um, the other thing is like, so the Gobi part is in I’m Vietnamese and that’s where I learned how to make shoes. Um, . Um, thank you guys for letting me do that. It’s a bit like, yeah. Anyway, we’ll tell that story later. But yeah, so I’m Vietnamese and um, that’s where I learned like how to make shoes and as like a thank you to my culture and like the people who helped me, like do everything.
Um, oh my god, my nose is dreaming. I have hate fever. Yeah. Should I? No, that’s fine. [00:11:00] Yeah. Anyway, um, so as a thank. To like my culture and like the people who support me, my family, and like, even though my family can give me hell sometimes, I think that’s what all families do. .
Susan: Isn’t that? Why isn’t that the purpose?
Yeah.
Thieny: Oh my God. It’s terrible. But you know, Whatever. They’re my family. . Yeah. So,
Susan: um, I can lend you my two hell races. It’s okay.
Thieny: It’s ok. . I’m not ready for maybe in the, but not yet when they’re, they’re potty trained. I get it. Yeah. Yeah. Oh my God. Yeah. Um, yeah, so like, Yeah, as a thank you to that. So I put the last part as the Vietnamese gore is actually auntie or like, um, older, like lady or something.
So it’s like go, it’s like a, like how we say misses or whatever. I’m a gore because I’m not married yet, or I’m not like super old, so [00:12:00] I’m not maced yet. I’m just a girl and B is like, um, my nickname in Vietnamese is B. So no one ever calls me like, um, teeny or anything. It’s like, Oh yeah. So that’s, that could be so, uh, miss Teeny, but in Vietnamese or anti tini In Vietnamese, yeah.
Yeah. So that’s where the Oh, that’s adorable.
Susan: Yeah. I love that. Yeah. I absolutely love that. Yeah. And, and what do, um, your family overseas think about that? Have heard about this?
Thieny: Um, that’s why I was saying it’s a rough journey. . Oh my God. Yeah. So, um, so like, Thank you to like my auntie also who like introduced me to like the shoemaking people, but shoemaking in Vietnam.
And I think in a lot of cultures it’s usually just for men. So, um, yeah, because it’s a very like, um, that’s to you. You don’t? Oh yeah, the hammer . [00:13:00] See, we’re carrying this. Yeah. And it’s like a really like tough thing because like most of the shoe makers, they see like all of this stuff. So you see all the like the holes and everything.
So the last
Susan: In beholder? Yeah. You put the shoe in. Yep.
Thieny: Yeah, so all of that. Yeah, it’s very lightheart and you don’t usually sit on a chair to do that. You have to actually sit on the floor to do it, because like, I’ll show you,
Susan: I’ve, I’ve seen that in your show on your pictures as well, if you’re making it on the floor.
Thieny: Yeah. So when you do it, like, um, I’m on the chair now, but I’ll show you how you do it. So when you do it, you have to like hold the shoe like the last. Like into your like thing like that. Oh, okay.
Susan: Yeah. Actually put between your thighs.
Thieny: Yeah. The heel pointing out. Yeah. No, like the, it’s like that. Yep. Yeah. Or you can turn it around wherever you do it.
Like the nailing thing, like around here, that’s quite
Susan: [00:14:00] dangerous because that, that hammer looks quite, it is very sturdy hammer. It’s quite big and heavy. And then to be smacking something that’s around your thighs, you really have to have precision.
Thieny: Yeah. So like you have to do that and you’re like, and yeah.
And you have to be really sturdy. So see how, like I’m sitting right now, so my floor’s a bit messy. I try to clean it as much as I could. Yeah. So you see how like I’m sitting right? And it’s like that, and I’m trying to do like this. Um, it’s not very, so when I do it, it’s like, can move wherever. So
Susan: when you Yeah.
You need, you need something solid to support yourself on that doesn’t swivel.
Thieny: Yeah. Yep. So like, yeah, you sit on the floor to. Do it. Yeah. So like when over there they’re always like, and it’s like they, they don’t mean it in like a harsh way, but I think that they’re like, this is a man’s job because it’s really tough, you know, you have to sit on the floor and Yeah.
Over in Vietnamese culture it’s like white. It’s really good. Mm-hmm. , so it’s like, um, it’s very like, girl, like [00:15:00] it’s better to be white. Yeah. You know, not non tanned. Yep. Yeah. Non tanned. It’s supposed to be like nice and. Yep. As fair as possible. And Compass. Yeah. If it’s like the, like, yeah. Anyway, so they’re like, if you, you’re a girl and you’re sitting on the floor and you’re like hammering away, and then you get callouses on your hands too.
Oh. And they’re just like, oh, I don’t think this is a good profession for you.
Susan: not, not ladylike enough. Yeah.
Thieny: It’s like, um, like they, they care, like they care for you and they’re just like, we don’t want you to. You know, because it’s kind, it’s going to make you look grotesque and then, um, but you know, but this is a passion and, and I don’t wind it, but sometimes you have to like explain that to them.
So that’s why it was a little bit like of a hard it’s yeah. Journey there because like I had to like explain this so many times and they’ll be like really resistant too, because they’re like, we really don’t think this is good for you. .
Susan: Yeah. So like cultural boundary of, [00:16:00] yeah. Um. They’re not used to a female in this instance, wanting to follow a passion piece that happens to be more of a male territory From, from the cultural area that you’ve been from.
Thieny: Yeah. Yeah. But it’s like, that’s really interesting. Yeah. It’s, there’s, yeah. And that’s why like, um, yeah, like you, like, it’s like, um, yeah, it’s good. Like you, you talk to them and it’s like you learn. The different cultures behind it and like why, how people think and everything. And it’s like, they don’t mean like badly from it, but it’s just like, oh my God,
Do you know, we’re so used to like, here, we’re so used to like, you know, just doing it and it’s like just following our passion and it’s good, but every day it’s like, no. And it’s like different like cultures. , you just, and you gotta understand that sometimes too, and like if you go over there because it’s a different, like, um, way of life also.
Yes. Um, you, like they have a thing is where [00:17:00] you have to, if someone says something, you gotta like listen to it and like really respect that. And if you go against it, it’s a bit like. So it was like, okay. Yeah. Yeah. So, um, that’s why it was a tough journey, ,
Susan: but you, you followed your passion and you’re doing something absolutely beautiful and gorgeous.
Yes, yes. Thank you. So I think it was definitely well worth it. Yes.
Thieny: I think it’s worth it too. Like it’s fun, . Oh, that’s brilliant. .
Susan: I just love that you’re able to bring your cultural background into something that you love. What else inspired you on this journey? Like what brands do you look at now or cultures that you see that have been inspiring you to create your products?
Thieny: Um, it’s, oh, sorry, I just, just putting the charter in. It’s a bit like, like, I don’t like a better word anyway, but um, Like, for me, it’s not really about brand, it’s mainly about like, um, [00:18:00] following your, I know it sounds very cliche Oh my God. But like . Yeah. But it’s like, um, mainly just like following your passion.
That’s why I’m doing this. Like, if you wanna do it and like why I couldn’t like, I could give up and like, you know, it’s like very easy to give up, like very easy. But like why keep, like even though if I’m not making money out of it or like, you know, there is like a demand for it, but even though I’m not putting it out there as much to make money for it, um, Like, I, I still do it.
Do you know what I mean? It’s like, because like even people keep telling you like, don’t do it. Don’t do it. Don’t do it. It’s like, it’s kind of like a stance where it’s like, look, you are annoying me. Stop giving me
Susan: negative vibes. Yes. On the positive ones, positive
Thieny: energy around me. Yeah. And yeah, so I’m just gonna do it, you know?
And it’s like all about like [00:19:00] even people who can’t, like if they keep doing all those things and like saying all those things, it’s just like, look, you can actually do it. Just keep doing it. And it’s just funny to do it. Well, it’s not funny, but it’s just like you can just keep doing it, you know? Yeah. And the other thing I wanted to like advocate, like through like this label, is that like, um, what’s it called?
I wanna show too, like all about inclus inclusivity and like about like, um, change that, like you can change the dynamic of things. Say for example, like bra brands or whatever they like show like, you gotta be a certain figure, you gotta be a certain look. And you saw on my Instagram made by call b like teeny at the end because the other one was taken.
So . Yeah. So, um, you saw like, I had like a model there who was like, not your average model and you know, she still looked beautiful, you know, she was like standing there firm. Looking her Marilyn Monroe way, and it was [00:20:00] like, you look good girl. You know? It’s a bit like Exactly. Yeah. And it was like looking a little bit like different, and it’s fine.
You can totally do that with me. But , but
Susan: that’s, but that’s what everyday person looks like.
Thieny: That’s right. Yeah, that’s
Susan: right. And that’s what makes it even more beautiful because not only is it sustainable products, yeah. You’re not, you’re going down the line of funny real people as well to showcase it.
Yeah. Yeah. And the pictures I love were the tote bag.
Thieny: Yeah. That’s good. The tote bags are good. That’s the starting point too, just to like, um, wean people in. So I think also what I wanted to like say too is like, do you know how like we’re made to like, um, we’re made to like really idolize, like people who look like a certain way, et cetera, but um, you know, like.
Like on my, like Instagram, like you saw that she’s different looking and, you know, all of that. [00:21:00] And, um, I wanted to emphasize too the cost, price and like if someone like who is, you know, able to afford that and you know, like they look like this too. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. So it’s. Afford It’s aspirational.
Yep. Yeah. Yeah. It’s like, yeah. It’s like she, she can afford it and she’s beautiful and you see her, her beautiful is different from what you are made to like, like want to see is beautiful. You know, like people always say, why did you put her up? Really? Yeah. They’re like, why did you push shoes
Susan: on? You need to stop talking to those people.
Thieny: Yeah. That’s, that’s the thing. Like you get a lot of, like, you get a lot of like, input, but like, like what you said before, like, um, you have to like, . Good vibes only .
Susan: Exactly. And [00:22:00] and it’s, it’s, it’s representing you. Yeah. So this, this brand has got your name in it, even though people might not know that straight away because it is the Vietnamese, um, slang for you.
Yeah. Yeah. That it’s you. So you have co complete creative control about what you wanna do out there in this universe. And that’s what you’re doing. You’re taking control, which I love.
Thieny: Yeah, yeah. Yeah. So, um, yeah, so that’s the, that’s the label that I’m trying to. Put up there. So yeah, not exactly a branch.
Yeah. Oh, well, I dunno if it’s a brand, but I would say I like to call it a label because, um, going on. Trend
Yeah. Like there’s, there’s so many like labels out there. I didn’t even, I can’t even, like you count like what’s, yeah. So this is a label. It’s
Susan: opening up your business strategy about what you wanna do in the future. You’re keeping your doors open. Yeah. .
Thieny: But when, [00:23:00] when, what
Susan: did make you do the totes?
Thieny: Um, totes because Okay.
That’s, that’s a good one. Yeah. So totes is like, I look, I was looking into dinner. Louis Vuitton. Yes. How they started with, like their, how they started was like, they did like, um, the huge like bags, the luggage bags. Yeah. Yep. Mine isn’t quite like that.
It does look, it’s quite large though. Ok. Yeah. Oh, well, where is, I dunno where it’s, but like, um, you, so what’s she called? So why the tote is because like, I liked it. Me, I don’t like to waste it like, I don’t know about you, but like, I don’t like to wasting, so like the, you can use it for like shopping, you can put it anything you want.
Go to the beach. So like you’re reusing it. It’s not something. The stuff that I make, I hope, like it’s not something you just make to like use once, like I want, I want people to keep using it, like keep using it. It’s fine. , [00:24:00] you know, and it’s like, it looks okay and like you could go shopping and I just bring, bring it to shopping and it’s like, yeah, it’s, I don’t know, it’s just
Susan: good.
It could be perfect for me cuz I’m sure very soon I’m gonna have some nice clothing that gets destroyed in some way shaped by one of the boys. Okay. Yeah. And instead of getting rid of the whole outfit, I could then send it to you. I here, I’d be happy to talk with you and have something made out of it. I can repurpose and reuse sort of small, a bag out of it or something.
Yeah,
Thieny: I’d be happy to do that. Um, I’ll take pictures of you too.
Susan: with the boys fighting over the bag. I love it. Yeah. Oh yeah. , but, but I, I love that idea of a lot of people have those pieces in their wardrobe that they love what they can’t fit into anymore. Mm-hmm. or it’s, or it’s some, yeah. It could even be something as simple as a wedding dress or something.
Yeah. How, how to repurpose instead of just making a christening dress. Yeah. Depending on the pattern and everything. Oh, that’s make a bag. .
Thieny: Yeah, that’s, [00:25:00] and that’s a heaps good idea. Re like revamping your wedding dress into a christening dress. That’s perfect. Mm-hmm. . Um, but yeah, no, that was the idea. Like, like just not like waste clothes or like, you can put it into the Vinny stuff, but if you love it like heaps, like why don’t you just make it into a bag so you can keep forever.
Oh well you don’t have to give forever, but like, you know, keep more life
Susan: out of it so you get some more love out it. I love it cause. Because a lot of these things, it’s you, you fall in love with that pattern or that design, or even who it was ma originally made from when we go to labels. Yeah, you can, they repurpose it into something.
They give it more life with
Thieny: you. That’s right. Yeah, that’s right. So, um, yeah, I like that.
Susan: Mm-hmm. And, and that’s why I do love this circular design and sustainable fashion that’s now out there because you are stopping some landfill, but you’re also getting something out of it that you love. Uhhuh . And then for you,
Yeah. You are actually getting something to make and create and get that, that mm-hmm. energy that you haven’t been able to get in the every day. You’re able to put your arts and your [00:26:00] creativity and all of that to work. Yeah.
Thieny: And do you know what too? And I think that it’s good because like, um, there’s actually a lot of like, um, artists or like people around, like locally is.
They may not like, well, me too. Like they may not have like the platform to talk or something, but then they make really beautiful stuff too. And it’s just like, um, it’s just not out there yet. And like, you know, you go to the market. Some of the stuff, okay, some of the stuff is, oh, it’s really nice, you know, and it’s just like,
Wow. And it’s like, you know, you know, so it’s, I think that that’s like, and they have to, they also market it at like a pretty like, high thing. Most of their stuff too is sustainable also because they’re making it not as like a huge mass production. It’s, they’re making it out of like passion. They’re making it, you know?
And I think this is a good like stuff, your stuff, it’s good. . Exactly. Do you know what I mean? So, um, I think that that’s good. Like you can totally. . [00:27:00] Yeah. And like, again, um, yeah, I like to just like with my thing, like, I like to like just make sure, like, not make sure, but like, just show people that it’s all about, um, if you have like a dream or like an idea that you wanna do, you can totally do it.
Like, don’t ever, like whatever obstacle that you have, just keep us viewing it and then whoever wants to pull you onto. Team or whatever and try to like sway you to like make certain things their way or whatever. You just stand your ground babe and just do it like, just do like what you boss wanna do.
Boss. Yeah. Well not even be your boss, but stand your own values and like, because that’s how like you get from like, . Um, cause I’ve been watching all these stuff like, too, I don’t know why I keep watching em, but like, , that’s how you get, like, um, do you know how you get those [00:28:00] fashion designers? They’re really beautiful to begin with.
Mm-hmm. . And then after like once they get like, um, really good and like, um, they get more popular and stuff, they start to lose that like, You know, it kind of starts to get like getting dull and why it gets dull is because people like who. , they know better. Like, um, it’s like kind of like directing them of like what they should do.
And it’s kind of like, and then like the, the artists too, of course they want to like, you know, excel in their like field and really climb up the ladders, et cetera. They, because they wanna get that too, like, um, and which is okay, like you have to like move up the ladder as. That’s fine. That’s normal ,
Susan: you know, it’s, it’s dampening that creativity that was there to be what’s on trend or what the, they believe the trend is from these people influencing them.
Yeah. Which
Thieny: is, it’s okay to like, you know, get, but it’s just, yeah. It’s like stand your ground, like, especially at the beginning stage, [00:29:00] just like stand your ground. So that way, like that’s, oh my god, Susan, that’s like a like thing too. Like, it’s not a feminist thing, but like, I think. Oh my God, this is so true.
Like, this is like, do you know, like Susan, like you, you’ve worked a lot in the corporate world. Yeah. Um, I think this is also important too, like, um, in the fashion thing, like people, or not fashion, but yeah, fashion , like people, this example. Yep. Yeah, they keep like swaying you to one side, blah, blah, blah.
But you gotta stand like strong to what you believe, what your values are. And um, what was it? And like thing too with like women, uh, women in like the corporate or whatever world, the thing is people think that we’re not strong enough. So like they think that you have to listen to me and then like, do you know what I mean?
And it’s like they really like, . And if you don’t, you don’t yet. And it’s harder for us because for some reason we have to prove ourselves more, you know? So if say for example, one [00:30:00] person says, Like, or if say for example, one guy, right, who may not have been in it for a long or anything, they say something suddenly everyone’s like, yep, we’re on board.
Yep, let’s go. Let’s just do it. But as women, like, um, and it’s sad to say that even in Australia, sorry guys, , but this is the reality. Um, even if. where, you know, we got a good position, right? Um, we have like, um, you know, good like things even as we are going out, we have to prove ourselves more like the other guy.
He says something and it’s good, let’s get on board, you know? But for us, we have to prove and prove and prove and prove and prove our value. And it’s like that we’re solid and that. Good. You know, we have to prove that constantly. Whereas the other person, you don’t, they didn’t have to go through that pro whole process.
And it’s just like, you know, I think this is why it’s like, again, the shoe [00:31:00] thing, it’s like, look, if I say I’m not gonna do that design, I’m not going to do it , because like I told you, this is like my limit for now. And like this is what I’m doing, you know? And if you don’t like it, then so be it. . And that’s, and that’s
Susan: why, and that’s why this brand is representing you.
It’s your values, your beliefs put into it. Yeah. So that you produce something that you know in your heart is part of that passion piece that Yes. That you’re proud to have out
Thieny: there to represent you. Yeah. Yes. And I think it’s important. Like, you just, like, I don’t know, like
I, I see it as like, uh, I, I don’t know. It’s like, um, how do you. , it’s my. Maybe rebellious
I
Susan: dunno. I don’t think that’s how you meant it to to be when you first were discovering though, because you felt into podiatry and you love it. And this [00:32:00] is, yeah, the creativity piece coming off what you do every day. Yeah, because you see all those problems people are going through with shoes out there, so you’re solving the problem as
Thieny: well.
Yeah, yeah, yeah. So, yeah, to start off that it was like that, but
now
Susan: that just happens to, now that you can have some fun with it too, at home .
Thieny: Yeah, yeah, yeah. So to start off it with like, yeah, like that, like like the people who can’t wear shoes properly. Oh, well, no. You know, so I could do that. Or even like just to make something nice looking and it’s like, oh, I made.
and then now I think we are like going to the real world and then like you just like see what’s actually out there and you’re like, oh God. OK, , don’t tell
Susan: me no, I’m gonna keep going. Yeah, you’re gonna keep going. I love that. Yeah. Um, and, and that, I suppose that helps you as well with your social media about how you’re positioning yourself.
So what do you do on social media and how do you make yourself stand out?
Thieny: Well, I think, um, That’s a good question. Um, I think it’s not like, okay, yeah, you can like make yourself stand out, but I think once you [00:33:00] start saying that, um, I need to do something to make me stand out, like I think that’s where we’re going wrong.
Make, oh, well, not wrong, but like, it’s totally fine. But I think like, um, uh, with marketing or social media, I think it’s. Stick to who you are. The authentic part. Yeah. Yeah. I think that’s the, yeah, you’re right. Like the authentic part. Like, um, yeah. Stick to who you are. Stick to the values of your label or like, you know, your brand and, um, and from there, do not sway
Everything did not sway just from
Susan: product all the way through to what you represent yourself on social media. Don’t sway stand firm.
Thieny: Yeah. Way ever. Okay. Sounds very stubborn. Like this is like the, this is the label. Like, you know, if I’m saying that this is who I am, this is who I am, you know, like stop trying to change my identity.
[00:34:00] This is who I am. You know, and I’m fine with who I’m, do you see her? She’s being a fool. She looks different. You
Susan: know, she’s, there’s nothing wrong with that at all. No. Beauty and the product and everything coming together.
Thieny: Yeah. And that’s the thing too. And like with custom, we all know like it’s custom, it’s like specific to you, you know?
This is the label. It’s specific to you. Yep. All custom. Yeah. So it’s specific. So if it’s specific, everyone is unique. Yep. You know, everyone is unique. So like, why do you wanna like hammer everyone down to look the same? Like, everyone is different. Like everyone is different in their own way. Like, you know, like Yeah.
Like, and like even, and why people think like, um, And I think this is for society too, like why people are like depressed and like their whole mental illness or everything around that is like [00:35:00] why people are so like sad or like all of this. It’s because like, They, they don’t feel appreciated. They don’t feel acknowledged, and it’s, and like they, they want to like strive to look or be a certain way.
Mm-hmm. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. And it’s like, no, you don’t have to be a certain, any certain way. You’ll find the way you are, you know, you’re seriously, you’re fine. Be unique,
Susan: be bespoke, stand out for
Thieny: yourself. Yes. That’s right. Yeah. That’s, oh my God, that’s a, yeah. That’s perfect. Thank you,
That’s beautiful. Yeah, but use it
Susan: as your phrase. I’m fine. Yeah.
Thieny: Say people like. Like in my, uh, my age because like, you know, podiatry, like, and this is this, oh my god, Susan, this is the thing that I love about, like my job. I know it sounds terrible that I keep saying that, but like, this is the thing why I love podiatry so much is the main audience [00:36:00] who are like, who I work with in podiatry is really old people.
Like, you know, the elderly. So like, um, yeah. And the thing why I love about them is before I used to work in aged care too, so I’ve stopped working that for a bit now. Yeah, I like last year just because it was too much. I burnt out. I, I’m in a, I’m in a relaxing stage now. Any who, but I love that place and, um, The thing that I love about working with old people or the elderly is because they absolutely did not care.
They’ve been through all that. And this is also why, like, in the label, I, I don’t wanna strive to like have, you know, a certain look or anything. Just be yourself, you know? Yeah. And why I love like, working in like, and why I’m trying to bring this to like the Made By Go be is because, you know, like, and why I love my job is because my, the clients or patients that I.
They, they accept me wholly for who I am. , you know, and I [00:37:00] accept them and they do, they do not care, like at all. Like, you know, sometimes we can’t, like, sometimes they can’t hear me. .
Susan: Yeah, they’re older, so, makes sense. Yeah.
Thieny: They can’t hear me sometimes they can’t understand me, so I do have, I had to learn how to talk a bit slower and like to articulate my words, but, um, so sometimes they don’t understand me or like, um, and like, what’s it called?
Um, . And sometimes I don’t understand them because they can’t speak English or like, but it’s fine. They totally like, you know, they’re, they’re totally accepting and like, they just don’t care, you know, like, and like it’s just, It’s just genuine because they’re just at the stage where they just don’t care.
Like Yeah, it’s really good. I love them. Yeah, and they’re really nice. Yeah. Yeah. I like them. I love
Susan: that. I love that. Not only it’s just passion of the audience and your target, who you work with as well, just inspires you more so. Mm-hmm. , [00:38:00] I
Thieny: love that. Yeah. And it’s like, they’re always like really nice because they’re always like, They just let you be who you are, you know?
And it’s like, yeah, it’s really good. And I think that that’s the trouble these days. Oh, not these days. Oh my God, I sound like old person
nowadays. Like they feel like they, it’s like, yeah, oh my God, it’s. They feel like, um, people feel like they’re not allowed to be themselves. Do you know what I mean? Like, like contain into boxes. Feel. Yeah. Yeah. And like, even if they want to be themselves, they’re uncomfortable because they’re like, uh, I feel shy, or like embarrassed, like to go out presenting like this because it’s like I have to be a certain way, or, you know, and it’s.
And then like [00:39:00] there’s the insecurity and there’s the confrontation, and there’s the jealousy and all of that. And it’s just like, just be yourself. It’s fine. Oh my God. It’s like, exactly. At the end of the day, no one really cares. Like really? Like, have you
Susan: ever, like ever, they’re gonna forget about it five minutes after they see you.
Yeah. So why dwell on it? Be happy with, they’re happy with who you are and what you wear, and make sure you’re comfortable as well. Yeah, that’s
Thieny: right. I like that.
Susan: So I’m gonna ask you the final question I ask everybody. Mm-hmm. , if you could be a brand, any brand, what brand would best represent you and why?
Um, oh, she’s thinking tick, , tick, tick.
Thieny: Um, I don’t think, um, at the moment I don’t think there’s any brands that I. . Um, actually there was one brand that I liked. It was, [00:40:00] um, an Australian one. Do you remember Fossil?
Susan: Yes. Yeah. Did watches and I believe clothing too.
Thieny: I remember they did. And belts. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.
It’s like, um, I, I like the stuff because it’s quite like, um, yeah, it’s very like raw. It’s very like, um, and it’s quite, it’s a different, Like, it’s like, and it’s very sturdy. Um, that, and I don’t want to be the, the brand. I just like, admire, like I think these are the brands that I admire or like that I like, so I like, um mm-hmm
And I like Q Yes. Yeah. Q is that an Australian one too?
Susan: Maybe. I, I actually don’t know whereabouts. Yeah, it sits right now because lots of companies keep being bought by other companies, so I can’t Oh, that’s terrible.
Thieny: That’s terrible. I, oh, no, it’s fine. But yeah, I like, um, fossil, um, because of the, like, it’s very like, [00:41:00] sturdy and then like, even like the zippers that you use, it’s so smooth and like, um, like, and it’s really nice.
It’s very sturdy. Like, do you know how like this sometimes you feel or something, you’re like, damn, this.
Susan: It’s gonna last.
Thieny: Yeah, I like that. And um, Q again, I like that because it’s like,
Susan: hmm, you feel, you feel that special feeling when you’ve, when you’ve bought it. Yeah. It’s, and
Thieny: when you wear it, yeah. It’s, it’s nice.
Uh, and it feels, it’s like, it’s nice. It’s like so crisp and it’s like, it’s nice. I like that. Um, and the other one, Is so cute. Fossil. And the other one I like is Uniqlo. I really love Unicode. It’s very like, um, what’s it called?
Susan: Uh, I’d almost call it eclectic.
Thieny: Eclectic. What’s that? Oh, sorry.
Susan: What’s all, all, all different things.
Yeah. Um, for e for everybody, like EC Kaleidoscope kind of thing. Where, yeah. Yeah. It. , it’s one shot, but there’s so much [00:42:00] there. Yeah. And it can, and it goes through for some di lots of diversity as well. Yeah. Yeah. That’s what I think when I think of them.
Thieny: Yeah. I like them too. Yeah. . Yeah, there are.
Susan: Wonderful.
Thank you so much. Thank you so much teen for today. I’ve learned so much. In particular, stand your ground to be authentic when you’re chasing your dreams. Yeah. And also continuing that through from product development all the way through to what you post on your socials cuz this is you. And being authentic, a stand your ground is a big stamp of who you are as well.
Mm-hmm. and, and I love the idea of the, the hobby of sustainability becoming a side hustle in the future. And last but not least, let’s do one final shout out. What is your tag again on Insta?
Thieny: It is made by Goby, so M A D E B y, uh, underscore goby, so c o b i, teeny, so t H I E N. Why? Let me just double check that now.
Susan: [00:43:00] I’ll add it to the end of this podcast in the description so no one misses out on it. Thank you so much again for your time today. I’ve absolutely loved this and everybody continue to listen to more podcasts. Don’t forget to follow, and we’ll catch up very soon. Thank you.
Thieny: Thank you for having me, Susan.
Susan: More to marketing.
