Milken Institute

Emma Grede "Start with Yourself: A New Vision for Work & Life": Author Talk | Global Conference 2026

Emma Grede, serial entrepreneur behind Skims, Good American and Off Season, launched her memoir‑business hybrid "Start With Yourself" at the Global Conference 2026. The talk centered on how her East London upbringing forged a no‑nonsense ethic, a low tolerance for bullshit, and a habit of delivering on promises—principles she credits for scaling multi‑billion‑dollar brands. She emphasized that speaking openly about money and ambition is not optional for those from scarcity; it’s a survival tool. Grede argues that women must articulate their financial needs and career goals directly, because silence only reinforces systemic bias. The U.S. market, with its ready capital and cultural openness, provided the fertile ground where her outspoken style could thrive. Memorable lines included, “Ask for what you want; asking gets you everywhere,” and “I never want to be a poster child for the impossible,” underscoring her push against unrealistic motherhood standards. She frames her book as a series of truth‑busting “trade‑offs,” inviting readers to reject outdated norms and craft personalized career equations. For entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, Grede’s message translates into actionable tactics: cultivate blunt communication, negotiate compensation early, and seek ecosystems that reward transparency. Her perspective also reshapes the dialogue around work‑life balance, urging companies to accommodate diverse parenting models rather than imposing a one‑size‑fits‑all ideal.