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Podcast

As a child, I was enthralled with history and biographies. I struggled in Math and Science, but one rainy Friday, my 4th grade teacher pointed out I was good in History and my life changed at that moment. I decided that day I would major in History. So that’s what I did 9 years later, I entered university in Washington, DC to study History- a continuation of learning and analyzing people’s lives and decisions. I interned in the US Congress, at The White House, and for NGOs; and volunteered on political campaigns, and worked in the city after graduation. But moving to London to study for my Masters changed my worldview. I’ve lived in 9 countries and have found myself in a completely different arena: fashion. Over the past 6 years, I have developed an eye for couture craftsmanship, learning how to put intricate and detailed collections into words. As a result, I have developed relationships with some of the world's most leading brands, covering Paris, Milan, New York, and Riyadh Fashion Week shows. I also have a faith and lifestyle magazine, Seele that I founded. I decided to launch ‘The Soulful Side Of Life,’ an amalgamation of my experiences, where I interview people in areas that have touched my life in: fashion, faith, entertainment, music, business, and entrepreneurship. The podcast is an extension of my interests in discussing people’s stories.

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please follow.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allysonlolitaportee/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSoulfulSideOfLife

Seele Magazine: https://seelemag.com/

Episode 6: Acting On Her Italian Artisanal Heritage, Luxury Sustainable Shoemaker Jennifer Stucko Talks Launching Her Brand During The Pandemic

Photo Credit: Andrew Day

Photo Credit: Andrew Day

 
 

Luxury shoes made from upcycled grape and apple skins. Have you ever heard of such a thing? Italian-American luxury shoe designer Jennifer Stucko has been on a mission to combine sustainability and luxury with her brand Prota Fiori. The name is Italian, meaning “protect the flowers,” which signifies Stucko’s commitment to prioritizing Mother Earth with plant-based alternatives in place of leather for women’s luxury footwear.

 We talk her launching Prota Fiori during the pandemic and how she was inspired to leave the world of luxury Italian brands to start her own business.