As a company created by two women, we know how important it is to celebrate women who are trailblazers in their respective fields. That’s why we’ve started our Boss Babes series. Each month we’ll highlight one woman who’s leading the way and is absolutely crushing it, in business and in life. Here, they’ll answer questions on everything from how they started out and advice they think every woman should know, plus their beauty routines and how they take care of themselves. This month: Kate Bock, Founder of Love Kate

The chances are high that you already know who Kate Bock is. A model, entrepreneur, and talented multi-hyphenate, Bock has been the face of high-profile fashion and beauty campaigns alike. She’s channeled this passion for the beauty, health and wellness and now leads her own businesses and charitable initiatives. Today, we’re getting to know the recently-named Chief Brand Officer of hard sparkling water brand, Pompette, her charity work, and how she’s learned to reframe rejection as motivation.

What has been the most gratifying part of building your business?

I’m very entrepreneurial and being able to work with brands that I really believe in in the health and wellness space is such a joy for me. I love to challenge myself and grow which is why I started my business, Love Kate. And, being called a “boss babe” is so gratifying because it recognizes the hard work that we all have to put in to champion brands that fall in line with what we believe in.

It’s an exciting time to be in this space as more and more people are health conscious about products that are better for them. When Pompette approached me to join their team I had no reservations since they align perfectly with my own self-philosophy. I’ve also added the Clean Label Nut Butter & Snack Brand Abby’s Better to my portfolio, which I absolutely love!  

I’ve also been lucky to align myself with the charity “Wellness in Schools,” an organization that aims to provide healthier environments for children in school. It was imperative that I work with an organization that shared the same beliefs as me and there couldn’t have been a better fit! It’s important to teach children about healthy eating so I show them how to incorporate colorful food into their diets and find fresh foods. You have to start young and this program is in low-income schools where they provide healthier lunches.

Is there anything you would have done differently?

One thing I wish I could have done differently is learn from an early age to have a thick skin. In every industry there will be rejection, and the sooner you learn to only let it inspire you for the next thing, the better.

What advice would you give your earlier self, knowing what you do now?

Self-confidence is a big one for me and I think a lot of women. Every woman learns from experience and as we get older life lessons play an important part in getting to know who we are. Knowing we are good enough, smart enough, pretty enough is an invaluable lesson and we can’t let anyone tell us otherwise. So, I would tell my younger self to listen to my gut, my instinct and don’t let anyone tell you NO. Anything really is possible with determination, good intention and a good work ethic. Go after what you want, use your contacts, network and don’t take no for an answer!

What’s your business philosophy?

I look at business as an opportunity. As the world is changing and becoming more aware of health concerns and our environment the opportunity to make change for the good are endless. It’s an exciting time and I want my business and ideas to be a part of the change.  

I also want the work environment to be creative, hard-working and fun. I love a good brainstorm meeting whether in person, Zoom or on the phone.  They say there are no bad ideas and there aren’t. One person’s little nugget of an idea can lead to bigger and better ideas with a brainstorm meeting. I love that! Bring on the ideas and let’s talk, discuss, roll with it! If it doesn’t work that is ok.  On to the next idea!

Working as a model gives me the discipline that is needed to run a business. You have to be accountable, show up on time, respectful of others and so much more. That is my business model and I am proud of what I have accomplished.

What qualities about yourself have helped you reach your current role?

I’ve always been creative. I love design, photography and I am obsessed with mood boards because they just help my mind explode with creativity and get it all out there! I’m not afraid to work and get in the trenches. I’m very detail oriented, which helps me stay organized. My life is very busy right now so staying organized is a priority. I have my business to run, my modeling career and now a wedding to plan. If I wasn’t into the details or organized I don’t know how I would get it all done!