From Cold Call to Billion-Dollar Empires: The Unstoppable Rise of Emma Grede, Co-Founder of Skims

In the illustrious world of modern entrepreneurship, Emma Grede has carved out a path that is as audacious as it is inspiring. As the visionary co-founder behind global powerhouses like Skims, Good American, and Safely, Grede's journey to the top didn't follow the conventional playbook of Silicon Valley pitches or corporate ladder climbing.

Instead, her meteoric rise began with a singular, bold move: a cold call to Kris Jenner.

This wasn't just any phone call; it was a testament to Grede's unwavering self-belief and formidable business acumen. She famously declares that she harbors 'no imposter syndrome,' a conviction she insists isn't a delusion but a fundamental understanding of her own capabilities.

This 'unreasonably confident' mindset empowered her to present the concept for Good American—a denim brand built on inclusivity and body positivity—directly to the Kardashian-Jenner matriarch. This audacious initiative not only birthed a highly successful brand but also laid the crucial groundwork for what would become the sensation known as Skims.

Following the undeniable success of Good American, Grede, alongside Kim Kardashian West, channeled their collective vision into Skims.

What started as an innovative shapewear line rapidly expanded into a lifestyle brand encompassing loungewear, sleepwear, and apparel, now commanding a staggering $4 billion valuation. Grede's strategic brilliance and hands-on leadership have been pivotal in transforming these groundbreaking ideas into household names, demonstrating that a blend of bold concepts and relentless execution can yield unparalleled results.

For the Gen Z generation, often navigating a complex and competitive career landscape, Grede offers a refreshingly candid and pragmatic perspective.

She dismisses the notion of an endless search for the 'perfect' job or overthinking every minute detail of a career path. Her advice is straightforward and impactful: 'Get a job. Do a good job. Get another job. Do a good job.' She passionately advocates for the foundational importance of hard work, reliability, and building a strong, dependable professional reputation.

Grede suggests that the pervasive focus on finding an immediate 'dream job' can often be a distraction; true opportunities and growth emerge from consistent effort, showing up, and gaining tangible experience. She champions proactive networking and reaching out to contacts—a strategy she herself mastered with that initial, fateful cold call.

Emma Grede's compelling narrative is a powerful beacon for the impact of self-belief, strategic foresight, and the sheer courage to take calculated risks.

She embodies the spirit of a modern mogul who is unafraid to challenge conventions, banish self-doubt, and relentlessly pursue her ambitions, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary entrepreneurial journeys truly begin with the simplest, yet boldest, of calls.