London, 6 June 2024: Iris Co-Founder and Global Chair, Ian Millner, has announced a new episode of the popular podcast series Entrepreneurs in the Wild, featuring the legendary events entrepreneur and producer of LFW NEWGEN showspace, Sara Blonstein. This episode aligns with global fashion month and the upcoming London Fashion Week Men’s, highlighting London’s cultural prominence and its vibrant creative community.
Episode #8: Sara Blonstein’s Extraordinary Stories
In this episode, Ian Millner welcomes Sara Blonstein, the pivotal producer behind the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN showspace since 2016 and founder of Blonstein Creative Productions. Blonstein has played a critical role in launching the careers of designers such as Gareth Pugh, Henry Holland, and Richard Quinn, and has produced shows for icons like Molly Goddard, Roksanda, and Ozwald Boateng OBE.
Blonstein shares extraordinary stories from her career, including how she helped Davina McCall land her first big break at MTV, gave Graham Norton his first paid commercial job, and organised a fashion spectacle at Harlem’s Apollo Theatre featuring Ozwald Boateng.
One of the most captivating tales involves Blonstein’s experience with the late Queen Elizabeth II, Richard Quinn’s debut show, Anna Wintour, gimp masks, and thrash metal – a career highlight that she almost missed.
Blonstein also discusses broader issues, celebrating the fresh entrepreneurial spirit of Gen Z and influencers, and sharing her views on the nature of fashion and entrepreneurship. “The fashion industry is constantly evolving,” says Blonstein. “Gen Z and the influencer community bring a dynamic edge that is revitalising the entrepreneurial spirit in fashion. They are fearless, innovative, and ready to break the mould.”
In a candid conversation, Blonstein talks about the importance of staying true to one’s vision and being adaptable in the face of challenges. “I’ve always said, it’s my life, I’ll do it my way, and it’s always been that way,” she emphasises, highlighting her personal philosophy that has guided her career.
Ian Millner reflects on the episode, stating, “I’m delighted to be joined by the fashion icon Sara Blonstein. Her passion for fashion is so contagious, and I was really interested to hear her thoughts on entrepreneurship from an industry that the podcast hasn’t covered before.”
The episode concludes with Blonstein’s humorous take on the creative process and her one major regret, in line with her philosophy: “I hate anything boring!”
The Entrepreneurs in the Wild podcast, powered by Iris, features diverse guests who offer insights on entrepreneurial ‘superpowers’ and their unique perspectives on creativity and business. This episode continues the podcast’s mission to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs by exploring the stories, philosophies, and experiences of leading visionaries.
New episodes are released weekly on major platforms including Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts. Listen now via this link.
