Hello sweet BMC supporters and loves,
Today I'm proud to share the launch of ZimExcellence's merchandise shop, hosted on Redbubble. Back in February 2021 when I first started developing the podcast, I knew that down the line if my vision for the podcast was successful that I would love to release merch to complement it. I've always loved the idea of designing t-shirts or tote bags since I was 16 (aka the age I am now π). My iPhone notes app is actually filled with a brainstorm of empowering t-shirt slogans that have never seen the light of day.
Why?
Because I was scared.
I'm a recovering perfectionist which means in my mind if I can't create something that's instantly going to be great then why should I bother.
I also have deep imposter syndrome which means during this process my ego was yelling phrases such as :
"No one's gonna buy your merch" π€
"You need to hire a REAL graphic designer and you don't have the money for that" π
"You don't know anything about selling things online. You're too freaked out to learn how to make online returns" π€¦π½ββοΈ
Even with some of that being true or somewhat true, the question is not "Why?" but...
Why the F not?!
If I've learnt anything on this new podcast journey and YEARS of me dabbling in and out of the content creation space, it is that greatness is always on the other side of fear.
Developing, producing and launching ZimExcellence has taught me patience, profound joy and grown me in ways I had not anticipated. In addition to that, the ongoing pandemic is a constant reminder that YOLO (You Only Live Once) and Life is for Living.
So in order to get past my fear, I did what I do best before embarking on a new challenge. I did my research.
For me research means
brainstorming
reading articles and blog posts on opening online storefronts
watching YouTube videos about the logistics of print-on-demand websites and the pros and cons of each
looking through the Instagram hashtags #merch #podcastmerch #redbubble #teepublic for inspiration
With all the research and days spent designing and tweaking on Canva (as well as ordering sample pieces) behind me, I am excited to share these collections with you. I am also thrilled to share that shipping is available worldwide, including in Zimbabwe!!
These designs might not be for everyone but Iβm super proud of the love and joy that went into them. My hope is that as it grows, the ZimExcellence brand becomes a philosophy, a lifestyle and a big BIG mood! Please check out the store and spread the word to all your friends. #shamwaridzose Redbubble is currently having a 20% sitewide sale until March 31st, so why not take advantage. πΏπΌβ¨
Check out the full ZimExcellence shop here. 