Responsible Luxury

Responsible Luxury

by Lauren Petrovic
Business
Season 2
Trust Is the Asset: Olivia Landau on Building The Clear Cut
Lauren Petrovic sits down with Olivia Landau, founder and CEO of The Clear Cut, to unpack what it really takes to build trust inside one of the most opaque industries in the world, and turn that into a multi-million dollar business. From her early days on the bridal floor at Tiffany & Co. to launching an educational blog that evolved into a category-defining brand, Olivia shares how transparency became her competitive advantage. This conversation goes beyond diamonds. It explores conviction in leadership, knowing the “hill you’re willing to die on,” and building a company rooted in non-negotiables. Even when the market pushes in the opposite direction. They also dive into the evolving definition of luxury, the rise of bespoke experiences, and how trust—not product—is becoming the true currency of modern brands. 00:00 – Opening: Trust in one of the most opaque industries 01:00 – Olivia’s founding story & early exposure to diamonds 03:00 – From Tiffany & Co. to the Diamond District 04:30 – The Clear Cut begins as an educational blog 05:30 – Turning a side project into a real business 06:30 – Inside the diamond industry: relationships, trust, and opacity 08:00 – Educating the modern consumer 10:00 – Misconceptions about natural diamonds & supply chains 11:30 – Visiting diamond cutting facilities in India 13:30 – The global diamond supply chain explained 14:30 – Building proprietary tech (GEM platform & AI layer) 17:00 – Market insights: what clients are buying today 19:00 – Natural vs. lab-grown diamonds: long-term implications 20:00 – Leadership under pressure & decision frameworks 22:00 – Standing firm on non-negotiables 23:00 – Building a company with your partner 25:00 – Parenthood and redefining “balance” 27:00 – Seasons of life and work 29:00 – The future of luxury & shifting consumer behavior 31:00 – Experience vs. product in luxury 32:00 – Trust as the foundation of modern brands 33:00 – What Olivia is most proud of (Columbia Business School case study) 35:00 – Legacy, impact, and long-term vision 36:00 – Non-negotiables: honesty & authenticity 37:00 – What luxury needs today: personalization 38:00 – Jewelry styling & closing reflections
S2 · E29
May 5, 2026
40:09
Can Luxury Lead the Way? Iris Van der Veken on Building a Legacy of Purpose, Responsibility, and Transparency
What if the future of luxury isn’t about exclusivity—but radical inclusivity? In this powerful episode of Responsible Luxury, host Lauren Petrovic sits down with Iris Van der Veken, Executive Director of the Watches & Jewellery Initiative 2030, for a bold and timely conversation on redefining what leadership looks like in today’s global luxury landscape. Together, Lauren and Iris explore: Why trust is now the defining currency for business. The evolution of leadership from hierarchy to inclusivity. How women’s empowerment and climate action are deeply interconnected. The role of luxury brands in setting standards for transparency, traceability, and sustainability. The importance of collaboration, mentorship, and building ecosystems where creativity and accountability thrive. Collaboration across industries is necessary for progress. Whether you’re a CEO, creative entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation offers both practical insights on what it means to create a lasting legacy. Links & Resources Mentioned Watches & Jewelry Initiative 2030 UN Women – Women’s Empowerment Principles UN Global Compact Follow Iris Van der Veken on LinkedIn for updates on her work. Connect with Responsible Luxury Follow Lauren Petrovic on LinkedIn Follow Responsible Luxury on Instagram Explore Laurenti New York Stay tuned for upcoming events during Climate Week NYC 2025 Chapters [00:00] Introduction and Background [03:11] Leadership Evolution and Principles [12:03] Social Impact and Early Influences [16:30] Transition to the Diamond Industry [21:23] Driving Change in the Industry [27:32] Children's Rights and Global Compact [31:34] Collaboration with UN Women [38:46] Watches and Jewelry Initiative 2030 [40:42] The Importance of Nature in Business Resilience [43:38] Governance and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement [46:39] Collaboration Over Competition [51:54] Cultural Perspectives on Sustainability [56:54] The Interconnection of Climate and Gender [01:00:53] The Future of Responsible Luxury [01:05:56] Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders [01:08:21] Legacy and Impact in the Industry
S2 · E28
Sep 23, 2025
58:00
How Watches Became the New Asset Class: Jake Plonskier on Disrupting Luxury Markets
What if your Rolex could be as liquid as your stock portfolio? In this episode of Responsible Luxury, host Lauren Petrovic sits down with Jake Plonskier, founder of Watches.io, to uncover how the luxury watch market is being transformed into a dynamic asset class. Together they discuss: Why trust and transparency are the missing links in luxury markets How blockchain and data are unlocking the $30B+ watch industry Rise of liquidity in the watch market The parallels between watches, diamonds, and fine art as alternative investments What it takes to build a responsible, scalable business in an industry built on legacy From blockchain-backed authenticity to the untapped potential of resale markets, this conversation offers a masterclass in rethinking legacy, ownership, and value in the luxury world. If you're curious about the future of luxury, alternative assets, or just love a good founder story - this one's for you. Timestamps: 00:00 – 02:15: Welcome and episode introduction 02:15 – 08:45: Jake’s journey: From traditional finance to luxury watches 08:45 – 14:00: The vision behind Watches.io: Liquidity, transparency, and access 14:00 – 20:30: How Watches.io is building trust in a skeptical market 20:30 – 26:00: The intersection of blockchain, data, and luxury authentication 26:00 – 31:00: The parallels between watches, diamonds, and art as alternative assets 31:00 – 36:30: Building an ecosystem of responsible luxury: Lessons from the journey 36:30 – 41:00: Rapid-fire round: Jake’s favorite timepiece, top leadership advice, and legacy reflections 41:00 – 43:00: Closing thoughts and how to connect with Watches.io
S2 · E27
May 27, 2025
36:33
Live from FIT’s Sustainable Business & Design Conference: Powering the Next Generation of Responsible Luxury
In this special episode, host Lauren Petrovic takes you behind the scenes at the 19th Annual Sustainable Business and Design Conference at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she moderated a dynamic panel on “Powering the Next Generation of Responsible Luxury.” Joined by industry leaders Tiffany Stevens, Malyia McNaughton, and Wendy Waugh, this conversation dives into how luxury brands are redefining sustainability — not as a trend, but as a core business imperative. Together, they explore: Transparency in the supply chain — from diamonds to fabric mills The rise of upcycling, heirloom redesign, and secondhand markets Consumer expectations and the future of ethical sourcing Private equity’s growing role in ESG accountability How the next generation of creatives is shaping luxury’s evolution This episode is a call to action for leaders, students, and consumers alike to reimagine what responsible luxury can look like in 2030 and beyond. * Featured Panelists: Tiffany Stevens - Chief Business Officer and Global Head of Sustainability, International Gemological Institute Malyia McNaughton - Founder and Designer, Made by Malyia Wendy Waugh - Founder, Golden Collective * Follow Us: @laurendpetrovic @tiffanycstevens @madebymalyia @responsibleluxurypod On LinkedIn: Tiffany Stevens Wendy Waugh Lauren Petrovic * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Follow @responsibleluxurypod on Instagram and LinkedIn Subscribe to The Responsible Luxury Podcast wherever you listen. Share this episode and join the conversation on what responsible luxury means to you.
S2 · E26
Apr 22, 2025
46:30
Kendel Neidermyer - From High-Fashion to High-Stakes Luxury Real Estate
Ep. 25: In this episode of Responsible Luxury, Lauren sits down with Kendel, a powerhouse real estate broker with the top-performing Singer Team at Brown Harris Stevens. But Kendel’s journey to the world of high-stakes real estate is anything but ordinary. From her early days as a competitive gymnast to launching a career in high fashion, designing for renowned brands like Halston and J. Mendel, Kendel has always thrived in fast-paced, competitive environments. She later founded her own luxury fashion brand, F.WORDS, before making a bold pivot into luxury real estate, where she now helps high-net-worth clients find their dream properties in New York City and South Florida. Lauren and Kendel discuss the parallels between fashion and real estate, the importance of building trust and authentic relationships, and Kendel’s mission to empower more women to become homeowners. Plus, Kendel shares insights on the future of luxury real estate, including the rise of wellness-certified properties, and opens up about her personal life, marathon training, and finding balance in a high-pressure career. This conversation is filled with inspiration, strategy, and an inside look at the world of luxury—you won’t want to miss it! * Guest Speaker: Kendel Neidermyer Websites: Brown Harris Stevens, F.WORDS, Singer Team Real Estate Instagram: @kendel_runs_realesate LinkedIn: Kendel Neidermyer * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: Lauren Petrovic Instagram, X: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod * Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:00 – Kendel’s Journey to New York 06:00 – Breaking into the Fashion Industry 10:00 – Launching Her Own Brand, F-WORD 15:30 – Transition from Fashion to Real Estate 20:00 – Navigating Luxury Real Estate in NYC & South Florida 25:00 – Empowering Women Homebuyers – 30:00 – Building Client Trust in Real Estate – 35:00 – Personal Life & Lifestyle Balance 40:00 – Coping with Loss & Finding Meaning 45:00 – Favorite NYC Spots & Safe Havens 50:00 – The Future of Luxury Real Estate 54:00 – Final Thoughts & Where to Connect
S2 · E25
Apr 1, 2025
58:19
Kat Weymouth - Sustainability, Transparency, and the Future of Ethical Luxury
Ep. 24: In this episode of Responsible Luxury, Lauren Petrovic sits down with Kat Weymouth, Director of Jewelry and Metals at SCS Global Services, to discuss the evolving landscape of sustainability and transparency in the fine jewelry industry. Kat shares her journey from growing up in a multi-generational jewelry family to leading auditing and certification programs that ensure ethical sourcing and responsible practices. We explore the rise of consumer demand for sustainability, the importance of third-party verification, and how new technologies like blockchain are transforming traceability in the supply chain. Whether you're a jewelry professional, a luxury lover, or a conscious consumer, this episode provides valuable insights on identifying truly responsible luxury brands and the future of ethical sourcing. * Guest Speaker: Kat Weymouth, Director of Jewelry and Metals at SCS Global Services Website: SCS Global Services Kat Weymouth: kweymouth@scsglobalservices.com * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: Lauren Petrovic Instagram, X: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:00 – Kat’s Journey into the Jewelry Industry 06:30 – Transition to Sustainability & Compliance 10:00 – Understanding SCS Global Services & Its Role in Jewelry 14:30 – Consumer Preferences & The Rise of Sustainable Jewelry 19:00 – How Consumers Can Identify Ethical Jewelry Brands 24:00 – The Future of Transparency & Traceability in Jewelry 28:30 – SCS & iTraceit Partnership for Blockchain-Based Transparency 31:00 – Kat’s Personal Passion for Sustainability 33:00 – Defining Responsible Luxury 36:00 – Final Thoughts & Advice for the Next Generation 38:00 – Where to Find Kat & SCS Global Services
S2 · E24
Apr 1, 2025
35:42
Isabelle Grosmaitre on Courageous Leadership and Transforming Business for a Better Future
#23: In this episode, join Lauren and Isabelle as she shares her inspiring journey towards responsible luxury and purpose-driven business practices. From her early aspirations to her impactful work with global organizations, Isabel discusses the importance of courageous leadership in driving positive change. She delves into topics such as the shift from shareholder to stakeholder economies, the significance of purpose in business DNA, and the role of boards in sustainable governance. Through her insightful conversation with Lauren, Isabelle sheds light on the pivotal role of businesses in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future. Tune in to explore practical strategies, transformative insights, and actionable advice for companies looking to embrace sustainability and make a difference in the world. * Timestamps: [0:00] Introduction and Isabelle's Journey [6:32] Shift from Shareholder to Stakeholder Mindset [10:48] Purpose as a Compass for Business Decisions [12:11] Aligning Purpose with Business Operations [16:22] The Evolution of the Responsible Luxury Industry [21:43] Challenges and Opportunities for Legacy Companies [25:47] Reinventing Board Governance for Sustainability [27:05] Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals [32:03] Financial Incentives for Sustainable Business Practices [33:00] Policies and Incentives in Europe for Sustainability [36:23] Brands as Symbols of Sustainability and Purpose * Guest Speaker: Isabelle Grosmaitre Website: https://goodnessandco.one/ LinkedIn: Isabelle Grosmaitre Isabelle's Book: Business as a Force for Good * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: Lauren Petrovic Instagram, X: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod
S2 · E23
Feb 11, 2025
41:55
Douglas Neves x Cruzeiro Mine - Exploring a World Beneath, Leading a Global Mining Operation, Intuition Mastery, Next-Gen Leadership Advice and More
#22: In this episode, Lauren Petrovic sits down with Douglas Neves, CEO of Brazil’s renowned Cruzeiro Mine. A family-run gem operation founded in 1940 is now one of the most prosperous gem operations in the world. While being the third generation leading the mine, Douglas shares his remarkable journey in the industry, highlighting the intricacies of mining one of the world’s most prosperous mines. As Douglas puts it, it’s truly a combination of local knowledge, intuition, and science. Known for producing top-quality gemstones like tourmaline, quartz, morganite, aquamarine, and rubellites, Cruzeiro Mine has become a global leader in the industry. Through their recent partnership with IGI, they aim to enhance traceability and transparency in the gemstone sector. * Timestamps: [0:00] Introduction [1:57] Unique Qualities of Cruzeiro Gemstones [5:21] The Ethical Mining Process [8:07] Day-to-Day Operations in the Mine [8:32] Intuition in Mining [11:40] Transparency in Sourcing and Production [15:15] Building Relationships with Jewelers [16:34] Advice for the Next-Generation Leading with Responsible Luxury [18:02] The Philosophy of Responsible Luxury * Guest Speakers: Douglas Neves, CEO of Cruzeiro Mine Website: https://cruzeiromine.com/ LinkedIn: Douglas Neves Instagram: @cruzeiro.mine, @douglaswn * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: Lauren Petrovic Instagram, X: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod
S2 · E22
Jan 24, 2025
20:11
Adriano Mol & Christine Puleo Reis - Uncovering the Global Gemstone Market with Cruzeiro Mine
#21: Join us as Lauren Petrovic sits down with Adriano Mol and Christine Puleo Reis from Cruzeiro Mine during New York City Jewelry Week. We take a deep dive into all things colored gemstones and explore the global gemstone market, tokenizing gemstones, and Cruzerio's recent partnership with IGI bringing more traceability to the jewelry industry. * Timestamps: [0:00] Legacy of Neves Family Mine [03:46] Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement [06:16] Transforming Experiences in Mining [12:54] The Future of Cruzeiro Mine and Market Trends [14:23] Traceability and Transparency in Gemstone Sourcing [16:37] Embracing Technology in the Gemstone Industry [20:35] Looking Ahead: The Future of Gemstones and Sustainability * Guest Speakers: Adriano Mol and Christine Puleo Reis from Cruzeiro Mine Team Website: https://cruzeiromine.com/ LinkedIn: Adriano Mol, Christine Puleo Reis Instagram: @cruzeiro.mine, @adriano_mol, @christinepuleoreis * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: Lauren Petrovic Instagram, X: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod
S2 · E21
Jan 24, 2025
24:16
Ian Bone and Brian Cook - Part 3 Ethical Gem Suppliers
This week, Lauren Petrovic is live with Ian Bone and Brian Cook from the Ethical Gem Suppliers collective. Tune in as they explore the essence of sustainability within the gemstone trade, its global implications, and societal significance. Guest Speakers: Ian Bone, Co-founder of Capricorn Gems Website: https://www.capricorngems.com.au/ Brian Cook, Founder of Natures Geometry Website: http://www.naturesgeometry.com/ * For comments, questions, or speaker ideas: Email: lauren@laurentinewyork.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-petrovic/ Instagram: @laurendpetrovic, @responsibleluxurypod
S2 · E20
Nov 26, 2024
37:00
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