Episode 14
#14: Featuring Jannik Olander - Chasing and capturing the American dream
Episode 14 of Growing For It with Jannik Olander
Jannik Olander, CEO and founder of Nialaya, discusses his entrepreneurial journey from Denmark to Los Angeles. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, ambition, and resilience in entrepreneurship. Jannik's early experiences included working on a farm in Denmark and being inspired by fashion magazines. He moved to London at 18, worked in various roles, and eventually returned to Denmark to manage Ralph Lauren stores. He later expanded to Tommy Hilfiger and Polo Jeans, managing many stores in Illum's department store. Jannik also ventured into outlet stores and a T-shirt business, highlighting the challenges and successes in his diverse entrepreneurial endeavors. Jannik also underwent near bankruptcy, moved to the states, and began a jewelry fashion brand. His brand Nialaya gained traction, particularly after meeting P. Diddy and other celebrities although the brand faced legal challenges from a competitor but survived. Jannik emphasizes the importance of hard work, leading to significant growth and a shift from celebrity-focused to influencer-focused marketing. Today, the brand is internationally recognized, with a strong online presence and a vision for future expansion. Jannik discusses his vision of expanding his business to Copenhagen or London. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, crediting his 27-year-old wife for her influence. He reflects on past financial mistakes, advocating for savings and cautious spending. Yannick contrasts the social dynamics in Denmark and the US, noting the openness and networking opportunities in LA. He expresses concerns about the current economic climate, comparing it to 2008. Lastly, he contemplates the challenges of raising children in LA, considering a move to Malibu for a safer environment.
If you wanna learn more about our "Elite Founders Fundraising" program, DM us on our socials listed here:
Mikkel on LinkedIn: https://growing-for-it.captivate.fm/mili
Travis on LinkedIn: https://growing-for-it.captivate.fm/trali
Mikkel on Insta: https://growing-for-it.captivate.fm/mikkel
Travis on Insta: https://growing-for-it.captivate.fm/travis
Be sure to check out Jannik on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannikolander/
Thanks to our sponsors:
Chapters
[0:00 - 10:00] Jannik's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins
[10:00 - 20:00] From the Countryside to the City
[20:00 - 30:00] Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
[30:00 - 40:00] Building a Retail Empire in Copenhagen
[40:00 - 50:00] Expanding Through Outlet Stores and New Ventures
[50:00 - 1:00:00] Lessons Learned: Challenges and Resilience
[1:00:00 - 1:10:00] Selling Stores and Pursuing New Opportunities
[1:10:00 - 1:20:00] A Fresh Start in New York and the Breakup
[1:20:00 - 1:30:00] Launching the Nialaya Jewelry Brand in Los Angeles
[1:30:00 - 1:40:00] Nialaya's Rise: Celebrity Endorsements and Legal Battles
[1:40:00 - 1:50:00] Evolving the Brand
[1:50:00 - 2:00:00] Balancing Growth and a Healthy Lifestyle
[2:00:00 - 2:10:00] Reflecting on Past Choices and Current Contentment
[2:10:00 - 2:20:00] Navigating Cultural Differences and Concerns About the Economy
[2:20:00 - 2:30:00] Thoughts on Becoming a Father and the Future
