Original Article appeared in Voyage Tampa
Today we’d like to introduce you to Melody Mendoza-Auslander.
Hi Melody, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in the Philippines and dreaming of a better life, I immigrated to Los Angeles, California, in 1999 to go after the Great American Dream.
As a former school principal, I found a new sense of purpose and yearning to inspire others in a new way – this time through my passion for fashion. Inspired by my love of fitness and active lifestyle, I launched a campaign to create clothes that make life’s journey better.
The idea to patent the Joey Pouch came to me while I struggled to run errands at the grocery store after yoga class. Juggling my keys, wallet, and phone in the slim pockets of my leggings was uncomfortable and impractical.
I realized that others must face the same issue and that ‘on-the-go women’ like myself deserve to own functional and stylish clothes.
In 2020, I launched my apparel company, LaBetri, to do just that. LaBetri debuted The Joey Pouch, long-lasting, buttery-soft leggings featuring a small zipper “fanny pack” compartment that can be tucked in and out as needed. They’re 100% ethically made in the USA. The Joey Pouch legging is made of quality, antimicrobial fabric certified by OEKA-TEX to ensure sustainability. When its time to recycle them, Joey Pouch leggings will decompose in a landfill within two years.
I started LaBetri after retiring as an elementary school principal in 2019. Though I dedicated my career to teaching for eighteen years, I spent several years in the apparel industry as a supplier and manufacturer for major retailers. I had operated my own store, and that brought me immense joy. Even after I became a teacher of special needs children, I’d reminisce about the days I spent building my small business.
Now, I have the opportunity to do so again. This new chapter in my life celebrates my passion for fitness, social impact, and entrepreneurship. Currently, Joey Pouch leggings are available on my website at LaBetri.com.
I’m ready to take the next step, which means expanding the LaBetri collection and giving women the opportunity to stock their closets with functional clothes that align with their goals of lifestyle and comfort.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Looking back, I can’t believe I went from school principal to fashion designer!
I never had any formal training or degree in fashion designing, but it was something that I’ve always wanted to do since I was a young child.
I was born and raised in the Philippines, my mother was a retired soap opera actress, and my father was a successful architect. My grandmother was my role model. She was my NorthStar. She was strong, independent, and focused. When we were young, she would always remind us never to procrastinate, “Do what you can do today and don’t wait for tomorrow.” These exact words became the fuel and inspiration in my entrepreneurial journey.”
I was 23 years old when I moved to the US and was the first-generation immigrant in my family. Being an immigrant in a vast country was the hardest experience I’ve ever had in life. It took me almost 10 years to comfortably navigate living in the US. I wasn’t prepared for the cultural differences; therefore, my soul and core were challenged. I learned how to power through the challenges and adversities by utilizing my strengths and uniqueness. I always believe you have the power and capacity to process challenges and situations, and how you process events determines your level of happiness and success.
One important lesson I learned about being an immigrant and entrepreneur is to always ask for help and find people who will mentor you in your journey. I also learned to never forget the people who helped you in you move forward.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Dr. Kerry Szymanski, Director of Tampa Bay Women’s Business Center, was my mentor, coach, and good friend. She helped me so much in the initial phase of my entrepreneurial journey.
Tracy Smith and Kim Vogel from The Greenhouse St Pete – helped me find coaches and mentors for my Business Plan.
Gretchen Bauer, CEO/Founder of BSwanky (luxury bag). Another powerhouse female gave me guidance and support as a native through the launch of my brand.
Liza Fleming, Owner/Founder of Z*aa, dress up a studio in downtown St Pete. She’s an amazing thought partner, entrepreneur, and a very good friend. She gave me honest feedback that challenged me to grow and be a better designer.
Oliver Tolentino, Hollywood fashion designer. Always willing to help and share his resources and talents.
My loving husband – for believing in me, sharing my dreams, the wind beneath my wings, and my haven during the storms.