FEARLESS FOUNDERS | NAVIGATING IVF & ENTREPRENEURSHIP | WITH CHLOE FROM NALA

  

Introducing Chloe, the Founder of Nala and GoChlo Pilates. Chloe's journey Pre Nala was a life far away from the world of bras and undies! As a physiotherapist and pilates instructor, she was running her online pilates business Go Chlo Pilates full time (still a side passion project!). Chloe also navigated a very long fertility journey and is currently 6 months pregnant with her first little babe. Chloe brings her unique blend of expertise in movement and wellness to the world of fashion. She seamlessly infuses her creations with a commitment to comfy AF underwear, style, and inclusivity. 

   

How did the idea for NALA come about? 
  
During covid, I was on the hunt for some new underwear and couldn’t find anything I loved. I wanted something comfy, affordable, sustainable and cool. But that didn’t exist in the Aussie market. So my husband Phil and I decided to do it ourselves. 
  
 
Was there a pivotal moment in your journey that empowered you to take the plunge to launch and pursue your business endeavours?
   
I guess it comes down to a gut feeling. After running my own successful online pilates business for a couple of years, I had gained a lot of confidence in the business world. Then, when the idea of Nala came around, it just made sense! I could really visualise what it would be, and what it could do for people around Australia. 
 
 
 
Balancing the motherhood and the demands of running a business can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. How do you prioritise your commitments and set boundaries?
   
We started trying for a baby around the time that Nala launched. It was such a confusing time because while the business was flourishing, personally I was crushed by the fertility setbacks we were facing. They say that for the best chance at falling pregnant, you need to reduce stress and *relax*, which is funny when you’re in the fertility trenches, plus running two businesses! It was so hard to navigate.. and still is. Yes, I’m pregnant but I often want to curl into bed and take a 3 hour nap. (Don’t tell anyone but I am writing this from bed…). I try to reduce the amount of social plans I have and try to prioritise rest but it’s hard. 
 
 

How do you believe your experiences as a woman and mother have shaped your approach to leadership and decision-making within your business?

I’m a strong believer in following your gut instincts and I tap into this for the business constantly. When it comes to big decisions, I allow myself to sit with it for a few days, and trust in my direction. 

 

In what ways do you advocate for gender equality and support other women in your industry? 

I’m lucky enough to work in a female dominated industry and I bloody love it! I’d say that 90% of the people we work with are females - from the influencers we work with, the photographers and stylists on shoot, our incredibly talented design team - it’s a pleasure to work with so many strong and talented women! We also have a large focus on supporting trans women and gender diverse folx, who are sadly under-represented and under-recognised.  

 

  

What challenges have you faced as a woman in business, and how have you overcome them?

Important meetings with important people men who don’t seem to value me. Plus a lottttt of imposter syndrome.  I’ve learnt that you need to know your stuff. Know the numbers, get across the finances and be confident in your knowledge. 

  

When it comes to managing the dual responsibilities of motherhood and entrepreneurship, what support systems, resources, or networks have been your saving-grace?  

While undergoing fertility treatment and running the business, receiving emotional support was key. Yes, there was therapy but the most beneficial part for me was connecting with other women who had undergone similar experiences. It’s truly amazing how women can validate each other's emotions and experiences and lift each other up. I also have a list of helpful podcasts.

 

Being a founder and a mother requires immense strength and resilience. How do you prioritise self-care and well-being while managing the demands of both?

This is so difficult and I wish there was an easy answer! I guess that I’ve had to sacrifice things to prioritise my own self-care, like no dinner plans so that I can wake up earlier and get my pilates practice in. I know this will also change once my baby is born in May! So we’ll see… 

 

 

Can you highlight a mentor or role model who has inspired you on your journey, and share the impact they've had on your career? 

I have always looked up to Mia Freedman as a role model. She has built one of the biggest media companies in the country and it’s been built on the sharing of her vulnerabilities. Pretty inspiring!

 

Finally, on International Women's Day, what message would you like to share with women around the world who are pursuing their dreams and breaking barriers in their respective fields?

Go for it! Take risks, do hard things that scare you and allow yourself to fail. 

 

 Our Fearless Quickfire

1. Early bird or night owl? Early bird 

2. Wine or Gin? Wine 

3. Favourite productivity hack? Phone on “do not disturb”

4. Best source of motivation? My team 

5. Are you a planner or lastminute.com?  Depends on my mood.. 

6. Must-have item in your entrepreneur/mum survival kit? Phone

7.    Go-to stress-relief technique? Walking 

8.    Favourite podcast or book for inspiration or business insights? How I Built This podcast

9.    One thing you wish you had more time for? Cooking 

10.  One word that describes the intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship for you? I’ll let you know! 

 

 

March 06, 2024
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