Ashley Graham and Emma Grede are two dynamic forces in the world of fashion and entrepreneurship, each carving out a unique path to success. Their collaboration on the TV show Side Hustlers brings their expertise and passion to the forefront, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs. The two women are powerhouses in the business industry, each coming from different perspectives and coming together to provide valuable insights into beauty, fashion, and business.
Ashley Graham is a pioneering model, television presenter, and body positivity advocate. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, she began her modelling career in her early teens. Ashley’s breakthrough came in 2016 when she became the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated‘s Swimsuit Issue. This moment was a significant milestone in challenging the fashion industry’s narrow beauty standards and has since propelled a bigger movement within the fashion industry, encouraging brands and designers to create clothes in larger sizing ranges and use models beyond the first few clothing sizes available.
Beyond modelling, Ashley is a familiar face on American television. She has been a judge on “America’s Next Top Model” and hosted her show, “American Beauty Star,” where she mentors aspiring beauty experts. She is also a regular guest on talk shows and a sought-after speaker at events, advocating for body positivity and self-acceptance. Ashley’s memoir, “A New Model: What Confidence, Beauty, and Power Look Like,” offers an inspiring look at her journey. She discusses her experiences in the fashion industry, the importance of confidence, and her mission to promote body positivity. As an advocate, Ashley has worked with organisations like the National Eating Disorders Association and has launched campaigns to support body diversity.
Ashley has also ventured into entrepreneurship. She has collaborated on clothing lines with brands like Addition Elle and Swimsuits for All, creating fashionable options for women of all sizes. Her business ventures align with her advocacy, aiming to make fashion more inclusive and accessible.
Emma Grede was born and raised in London, and she developed a passion for fashion and business early on and pursued her studies at the London College of Fashion, focusing on business and marketing where her education laid the groundwork for her future success in the fashion industry. Emma started her career at Inca Productions, one of the leading fashion show and event production companies in Europe. Her role involved working with high-profile fashion brands and designers, honing her skills in marketing and brand management.
In 2016, Emma co-founded Good American with Khloé Kardashian. The brand launched with a focus on denim, offering a range of sizes from 00 to 24. Good American’s debut was historic, generating $1 million in sales on its first day. The brand’s commitment to size inclusivity and body positivity set it apart in the fashion industry. Good American has since expanded its product line to include activewear, swimwear, and more; all designed with the same inclusive philosophy. Emma’s strategic vision and leadership have been pivotal in the brand’s success, making it a beloved choice for consumers seeking stylish and inclusive fashion.
In addition to this, Emma expanded her entrepreneurial reach with a pivotal role in the creation and growth of Skims, a solution-oriented brand co-founded with Kim Kardashian. Skims has become a significant player in the fashion industry, revolutionising the shapewear and loungewear market. Skims was launched in 2019, born out of a desire to fill a gap in the market for inclusive and innovative shapewear. Emma and Kim aimed to create a brand that not only offered functional and high-quality products but also catered to a diverse range of body types and skin tones. This mission was reflective of Emma’s commitment to inclusivity, as seen in her work with Good American. Grede’s expertise in marketing and brand strategy has been instrumental in Skims’ success. Leveraging Kim Kardashian’s global influence and Emma’s strategic vision, Skims employed a powerful marketing strategy that included a strong social media presence, influencer partnerships, and direct-to-consumer sales. Skims has been recognised for its positive impact on the fashion industry, particularly in challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting body positivity.
Emma is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an influential investor and board member. She has invested in various startups, particularly those founded by women and people of colour, reflecting her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in business. Emma serves on the board of several organisations, including the Fifteen Percent Pledge, which encourages retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to black-owned businesses.
Emma’s expertise and charismatic presence have made her a sought-after figure in the media. In addition to co-hosting “Side Hustlers,” she has also appeared on “Shark Tank” as a guest shark, where she evaluates and invests in promising business ideas. Her media appearances further cement her status as a leading voice in entrepreneurship and fashion.
Moving onto the show in question, it is hosted by the two powerful women discussed above and is a TV show that celebrates entrepreneurship and the hustle mentality. The show focuses on individuals who balance their full-time jobs with their passion projects, turning side hustles into successful businesses. With Ashley and Emma at the helm, the show offers a unique blend of inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt stories. Each episode features aspiring (mostly female) entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, highlighting their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Ashley’s empathetic interviewing style and Emma’s strategic business insights create a compelling dynamic that resonates with viewers. Together, they mentor and guide participants, providing valuable tips on branding, marketing, and scaling their businesses.
The new season of Side Hustlers promises to be even more exciting and impactful. With a fresh lineup of ambitious hustlers, the show delves deeper into the intricacies of building a business from the ground up. Viewers can expect to see a wide range of industries represented, from fashion and beauty to tech and culinary arts.
One of the highlights of the new season is the increased focus on sustainability and social impact. Many of the featured entrepreneurs are dedicated to creating businesses that not only succeed financially but also contribute positively to society and the environment. Ashley and Emma’s commitment to promoting ethical and sustainable practices is evident in their choice of participants and the advice they offer. Additionally, the new season includes special guest appearances from successful entrepreneurs and industry experts, providing additional insights and inspiration. These guests share their experiences and wisdom, enriching the learning experience for both the participants and the audience.
You can stream Side Hustlers on Paramount+, Roku Channel, and Amazon Prime.
Ashley Grand Emma Grede’s Side Hustlers is more than just a TV show; it’s a movement that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of determination. By showcasing the stories of everyday people turning their dreams into reality, Ashley and Emma inspire viewers to pursue their passions and embrace the hustle. The new season is set to captivate and motivate, reinforcing the idea that with hard work, creativity, and resilience, anything is possible.
Bethan Gwynne
