We are seeing an emergence of more Wonder Women now than ever before. We introduce to you NJ Goldston, who with a winning combination of creative and business acumen, is able to give a voice to all that she does with style. She is defying all odds and proving that anything is truly possible if you work hard and stay focused. (Main Photo Credit :John Salangsang/BFA.com)
NJ Goldston is a venture capitalist in emerging fashion and technology brands. She is also the Founder of advertising, branding and interactive agency, The UXB, the Founder and Editor in Chief of the Webby award-winning fashion blog The Blonde and The Brunette and the Managing Partner of Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL). Let’s learn more about her journey on the road of success…
Beverly Hills Magazine: What have been major obstacles/stepping stones that you overcame to achieve your success?
NJ Goldston: It was really mastering the art of presentation and pitching. It takes experience, and the more experience you have, it only serves to help you in new situations. Sometimes you also have to do the hard work of teaching yourself new things, especially because the world is changing at such a fast pace. I’ve learned to become an expert at several things, and that takes real commitment. It’s also a very exciting part about being an entrepreneur. It’s a constant growth journey.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is the most challenging thing about being an entrepreneur?
NJ Goldston: There are always setbacks and issues, so your ability to problem solve and learn from them is a critical part of it. The other thing is asking for advice. Turn to experts for advice. It’s also crucial to zero in on the right ideas and the right markets, and continue to change and adapt. It’s so important to always be looking at what’s happening in the marketplace and how it relates to what you’re doing. Then be open to adjusting your vision but still stay on course.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is the most rewarding thing about being an entrepreneur?
NJ Goldston: I think it’s hitting the goals for yourself and for your company. When you achieve your goals, there’s a sense of accomplishment and reward. Then there’s the excitement of setting new goals and breaking through new challenges.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is your personal life motto pr philosophy?
NJ Goldston: I always quote Aubrey Hepburn, “I just do my own thing.”
Beverly Hills Magazine: As a venture capitalist, what opportunities most peek your interest and why?
NJ Goldston: I love brands or emerging designers that hit undeserved niches in the market. I’ve always had a passion for fashion, and I love working with new and emerging designers to help them grow.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Who or what have been your inspirations?
NJ Goldston: I have to say my mother. She was a graduate of NYU and Parson School of Design. She was a creative director, and she always encouraged me to have a career and build a life for myself. She has passed away, but she really, really inspired me. I have also had some great mentors in business along the way as well. If you’re a hard worker, people are going to want to reach out to you and help. They will be positive influences but also critique your work. It’s wonderful to get feedback and great advice then you can carry it forward.
Beverly Hills Magazine: How do you balance your professional and personal life?
NJ Goldston: I’m a very organized and methodical, meticulous person. I think my organizational ability has allowed me to balance my business and personal life.
Beverly Hills Magazine: If you had to give a piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs out there, what would it be?
NJ Goldston: You have to enjoy the journey. Success is a lifetime journey. Always remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is “success” to you?
NJ Goldston: Success to me is being passionate and enjoying what you do.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Have you discovered a personal purpose in what you do?
NJ Goldston: I think it’s the satisfaction of giving back in your life; whether you’re giving back in your work, personal life, and community and not asking for anything in return. I also believe there is purpose in the enjoyment and satisfaction of working hard at something you love. What you love can shift throughout your lifetime, so it becomes a life long journey of embracing change and looking for new ways to express yourself. Again, I have to thank my mother for giving me those life skills, encouraging me, and giving me the educational opportunities to be able to do so.
It’s safe to say, NJ Goldston truly is a modern day Wonder Woman and she’s unstoppable! Prior to her current roles, NJ has worked with clients ranging from multi-billion dollar corporations, to businesses that are fledgling and privately held including Universal Studios, Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer, American Express among others. She has been named a “Style Icon” by Louis Vuitton and one of LA’s “Leading Ladies of Style” by Angeleno Magazine. She is a member of the Vogue 125, a brand ambassador for Net-A-Porter and the muse of famed jeweler Martin Katz. We’re looking forward to what she does next!
