How Anna Harman, Co-Founder of Studs, Revolutionized the Piercing Experience

      Welcome to Second Life, a podcast that highlights successful women who have made significant career changes and bravely navigated the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, co-founder and chief content officer of Who What Wear, each episode connects you with women who are innovators in their fields. Be sure to subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts to keep updated.

      Anna Harman, co-founder and CEO of Studs, has transformed the ear piercing experience, elevating it from a standard procedure to a fashionable, curated event. Prior to starting Studs, Harman's career was quite unconventional. She began as a mutual fund formation lawyer, a position that offered stability but did not fulfill her creative aspirations. Seeking a change, she moved to Bridgewater Associates, delving into the finance world, and later joined Fitz, a start-up that ignited her entrepreneurial spirit. During this phase, Harman developed her ideas within a self-initiated “female shark tank” working group, collaborating with other businesswomen to refine her vision.

      Like many successful ventures, Studs was born from Harman’s recognition of a market gap and her desire to address it; specifically, her inspiration stemmed from a personal challenge—quite literally. Frustrated by the limited options for hygienic, affordable, and comfortable ear piercing, Harman spotted the void in the market. The available options seemed too childish, while tattoo shops did not provide the inviting ambiance she desired. Along with her co-founder, Lisa Bubbers, Harman conceived of Studs as a contemporary and refined piercing destination. Launched in November 2019, the first Studs store quickly became successful, achieving profitability from its first month. Customers were drawn to the clean, trendy environment and welcomed Studs’ unique “Earscape” concept, featuring expertly arranged earrings that enhance new piercings.

      With over 30 stores nationwide, including a flagship location at Rockefeller Center, the brand provides high-quality, affordable jewelry catering to various tastes. Harman’s emphasis on customer experience—incorporating hygienic practices, transparent pricing, and a friendly atmosphere—has distinguished Studs in a competitive retail market. Tune in to the latest episode of Second Life to learn how Harman was able to turn her frustrations into a thriving business.

      Next: Discover how content creator Tennille Jenkins continues to reinvent herself.

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