Added: Dec 18, 2023
David Gandy, a well-known model, shares his journey and insights on the High Performance podcast. He discusses his experiences in the fashion industry, his mindset, and the challenges he faced in his career.
Challenging Stereotypes and Imposter Syndrome
Gandy talks about the stereotypes associated with male models and how he had to challenge the perception of being just a "dumb male model." He emphasizes the importance of having a thick skin and overcoming doubts and insecurities. He also discusses the concept of imposter syndrome and how it has driven him to constantly challenge himself and strive for success.
Disrupting the Fashion Industry
Gandy shares his experience of not fitting in at school, university, and the fashion industry. He talks about his decision to leave university and pursue a career in modeling, despite not fitting the traditional mold of a male model. He emphasizes the importance of observing and learning from the industry, which eventually led him to disrupt the traditional model by running it as a business and building his own brand.
Building a Brand and Longevity
Gandy discusses his approach to building a brand and the importance of longevity in his collaborations with different brands. He shares his strategy of working with a select few brands for a longer duration, rather than working with multiple brands for shorter periods. He also talks about the importance of being an ambassador for the brands he collaborates with and the value of creating a lasting impact.
Overcoming Setbacks and Rejection
Gandy shares personal experiences of facing setbacks and rejection in the fashion industry. He discusses instances where he was pulled off a runway and rejected from a show due to not fitting the clothes. He emphasizes the importance of turning setbacks into opportunities and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity.
Dealing with Public Perception
Gandy addresses the public perception of models and the misconceptions surrounding the industry. He talks about the challenges of being judged based on physical appearance and the need to have a positive self-talk to overcome doubts and criticisms.
Lessons from the Fashion Industry
Gandy reflects on the lessons he has learned from his experiences in the fashion industry. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, working within one's strengths, and constantly challenging oneself to achieve success. He also discusses the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.
Early Career and Mental Health
Gandy talks about his early career in the fashion industry and the challenges he faced. He mentions that he has experienced dark times, which he attributes to the loneliness of traveling and working in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of being comfortable in one's own company and the need for solitude. He also discusses the difference between loneliness and being alone, highlighting the importance of finding a balance.
Gandy also talks about the impact of his lifestyle on his mental health, including the pressure of constantly traveling and the toll it takes on his body. He mentions that he has always been comfortable with solitude, but acknowledges the challenges of maintaining mental well-being in a demanding industry.
The "No One Sees" and Taking Risks
Gandy discusses the concept of the "no one sees" in the fashion industry, referring to the behind-the-scenes work that goes into looking good and achieving success. He emphasizes the hard work and dedication required to maintain a certain physique and image, highlighting the importance of perseverance and commitment.
He also shares his perspective on taking risks, drawing from his experiences in the industry. He talks about the importance of trusting his gut instinct and learning from failure. Gandy emphasizes the need to take calculated risks and the value of learning from both success and failure.
Starting a Brand and Lessons Learned
Gandy delves into the challenges of starting his own brand, Wellwear, and the lessons he has learned along the way. He discusses the difficulties of trusting others and the importance of bringing everything in-house to maintain control over the brand's direction. He also emphasizes the need for a strong team and the challenges of competing with established brands in the industry.
The interview also touches on Gandy's approach to hiring and managing a team, highlighting the importance of trust and allowing team members to excel in their respective roles. He emphasizes the collaborative nature of the brand and the need for a visionary approach to drive its growth.
Advice and Reflections
Gandy shares valuable advice based on his experiences, including the importance of enjoying the moment and finding a balance between work and personal life. He reflects on the best piece of advice he has received, emphasizing the value of drive, commitment, kindness, and honesty in both personal and professional endeavors.
He also reflects on his greatest strengths and weaknesses, highlighting his commitment and drive as strengths, while acknowledging his tendency to trust people as a weakness. Gandy shares a golden rule for living a high-performance life, encouraging individuals to think outside the box and embrace creativity and innovation.
