Conversations with women who are change-makers and risk-takers. Inspirational and educational content to help you do whatever it is you think you can't do.
We cover issues from professional growth, to improving your work life wellbeing (making your life/parenting/career easier), to having difficult conversations on important topics that affect your life (e.g. sexual assult, mom guilt, miscarriage).
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Conversations with women who are change-makers and risk-takers. Inspirational and educational content to help you do whatever it is you think you can't do.
We cover issues from professional growth, to improving your work life wellbeing (making your life/parenting/career easier), to having difficult conversations on important topics that affect your life (e.g. sexual assult, mom guilt, miscarriage).
204: From Kitchen Table to Queen Elizabeth: How Rachel Mielke Built Hillberg & Berk
Women Don't Do That (WDDT)
48 minutes 23 seconds
3 weeks ago
204: From Kitchen Table to Queen Elizabeth: How Rachel Mielke Built Hillberg & Berk
In this interview, Stephanie talks with Rachel Mielke, founder and CEO of Hillberg & Burke, about building one of Canada’s most celebrated jewellery brands from her kitchen table to a national success story. Rachel shares how early setbacks after Dragon’s Den shaped her approach, why owning customer relationships became key to growth, and how opening a small Regina store transformed the business. She reflects on creating a people-first culture, leading through fear, and staying true to her values while scaling. Rachel also opens up about her cancer journey, motherhood, and redefining balance. She previews Hillberg & Burke’s partnership as the official jewellery partner of Team Canada and the brand’s plans to double its store count. This conversation offers practical insight into scaling a business with purpose and heart.
Rachel Mielke is a dynamic entrepreneur, accomplished philanthropist, and sought-after speaker whose leadership has made a lasting impact in business and beyond. Best known as the founder and CEO of Hillberg & Burke, one of Canada’s most celebrated jewellery brands, she turned a home-based business into a multimillion-dollar company known for empowering women through design and purpose.
Through Hillberg & Burke’s “1% for Women” initiative, Rachel commits 1% of annual revenue to organizations that support women’s education, mentorship, and financial independence, including Dress for Success Canada, where the brand serves as a national partner. She has been recognized for her leadership in social impact, serving as an Honorary Captain with the Royal Canadian Navy and on the national boards of Dress for Success Canada Foundation and St. Margaret’s School.
A frequent keynote speaker and mentor, Rachel inspires entrepreneurs to dream boldly and lead with integrity. Her achievements have earned her an Honorary Degree from the University of Regina and numerous national awards for business and community leadership. Through Women’s Equity Lab, Rachel now invests in female-founded companies, continuing her commitment to building purpose-driven businesses that make a difference.
Women Don't Do That (WDDT)
Conversations with women who are change-makers and risk-takers. Inspirational and educational content to help you do whatever it is you think you can't do.
We cover issues from professional growth, to improving your work life wellbeing (making your life/parenting/career easier), to having difficult conversations on important topics that affect your life (e.g. sexual assult, mom guilt, miscarriage).
