We kick off Season 1 of Sage Vibrant Living the Podcast with Barbara Bates’ unexpected journey from the West Side of Chicago to influential fashion designer and philanthropist.

Barbara shares her early love for designing, spurred by her fascination with Barbie dolls and luxury fabrics, and recounts the turning point in high school that led her to pursue fashion design as a full-time career.

Despite starting without formal training or a business plan, Barbara's passion and unique designs not only caught the eye of famous clients like Michael Jordan but also paved the way for her lasting impact on the fashion industry and her community.

Now in her late sixties, Barbara reflects on her career, the challenges she overcame and shares her plans for the future.

Here are some highlights from this episode:

01:32 Barbara's Early Love for Fashion and Design

02:44 The Turning Point: From Hobby to Career

04:03 Building a Business and a Brand

07:11 The Secret of her Past Becomes Public: Embracing Teen Motherhood

09:36 The Birth of the Barbara Bates Foundation

10:38 Fashion Meets Philanthropy:

16:29 Conclusion: The Impact of Sage Collective

This original digital content was developed for Sage AdviceⓇ the official “experience” platform of Sage Collective. Amplifying stories like this, is what Sage Collective is all about. Are YOU living vibrantly? Visit sagecollective.org and click Contact Us so we can get to know each other.