Good Humans | Jo and Nic, Part 1

We believe that style is about more than what we wear - it's how we move through the world. It's the quiet confidence in our choices, the way we express who we are without saying a word. Good Humans is a journal series about just that: the intersection of style, self-expression and the mark we leave behind. 

For our first interview, we have a meaningful conversation with our co-founders Jo Chamberlain and Nic Yeomans, who speak about challenging norms and how they bring thoughtfulness to the everyday. 

In Part 1, we explore self-identity and connection - because how we dress is just one part of the legacy we build.

This isn't about what's trending or what's 'in the now', it's about the way we show up as humans. 

Self-Identity

What does it mean to you to truly be yourself?

Jo: I think it's about letting go of judgment - both from others and from yourself. Even though it's a constant battle! Everyone is just trying to live their life in the best way they can, and I try to focus on being a kind, genuine person rather than worrying about external pressures or expectations.

For me, it comes down to staying grounded in my core values - kindness, compassion, and integrity - no matter how much life shifts around me. At the end of the day, I just try to show up as myself, without overthinking how that's perceived.

Nic: I think it's about trying not to identify too much with how your identity evolves as you go through life - the wins and losses, trying to live without ego as much as possible and with empathy and care towards others - ultimately, you are still the same person with the same values, they just show up in different ways at different times. For me today, it means staying grounded and enjoying what's important - that is the sun, ocean, family & friends and staying in the present moment as much as possible.

How has your personal style evolved as you've grown into who you are?

Jo: I grew up on a farm in New Zealand, so my style was always pretty simple and natural. Then, working in fashion, I got caught up in trends and the pressure to keep up - it was fun, but at times, it didn't really feel like me.

Now, I've come full circle. I keep things pared back - fewer colours, fewer options, but with a sense of ease and confidence. It's a mix of where I started and everything I've learned along the way.

Nic: My personal style has evolved pretty slowly. I was a sporty kid and was always running, swimming and probably wearing a lot of surf brand / sport brand clothes without giving too much consideration to style. In more recent times, I've started to lean towards comfort and individuality. My personal taste is pretty understated with a preference for white, black and netural colours.

What's one thing you've learned about yourself that has changed how you see the world?

Jo: I've learned that you don't have to stay stuck in something that doesn't make you happy. For a long time, I thought hard situations were just something you had to push through, but I've realised that choosing change is sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself.

That shift has made me more understanding of others too - everyone is just trying to find their own way. Life isn't about staying the same; it's about growing into what feels right. 

Nic: The rollercoaster of life has largely impacted how I view the world and through the challenges and lows, I've found out the most about myself.

I was very lucky to grow up in a strong and loving family - but it took me quite a few years into my late 20s to realise and learn that not everyone has that privilege. Around 15 years ago, an encounter with a homeless person in my suburb led me to learn and explore more, and eventually, to working with people experiencing street homelessness. The majority of people in this situation stem from pure disadvantage - with the majority resulting from family violence, domestic violence or mental health - all areas out of your direct control as an individual. These first hand conversations changed my perspective on many things and allowed me to learn to appreciate and be grateful for what I had. 

Connection

How do you create meaningful connections with others in a fast-paced world?

Jo: Honestly, I try my best, but I know I'm not always as present as I'd like to be. Life moves fast, and finding time to check in constantly can be really tough - especially as a mum with no family in Australia. I went back to work when William was four months old, and ever since, it's been a constant juggle. But my friends know that if they ever need me, I'd drop everything for them. 

Meaningful connections don't always come from frequent messages or constant updates - they come from being present in the moments we do have together. Whether it's a swim, a walk, or having a few drinks, I love this time when we get it. I don't think love is about grand gestures; it's about the quiet, intentional ways we show up for the people who matter, even if life sometimes pulls us in different directions.

Nic: For me, meaningful connections come from spending time with people and listening to their perspectives on meaningful topics. I think being open and honest without fear of being judged and sharing too much can often help others open up and feel comfortable too. 

What's a moment of kindness from a stranger that left a lasting impression on you?

Jo: A week apart, I had two interactions with the same homeless man in Bondi Junction. The first time, while waiting at the lights in my car, the man started washing my window. Normally I'd ignore or decline, but this time I gave him $5. A week later, I was at the same spot with my son, William, when the same man came up to wash my window again. This time, I gave William $10 to hand over. The man looked at William and said, "You're very lucky to have a kind mother, look after her". I saw a glimpse of happiness and security in William's face when he heard those words, which really made me pause. It made me realise just how many people live without a support system - no family, no friends, no safety net.

How do you get ahead in life without that? It's heartbreaking that something as fundamental as love and care isn't guaranteed for everyone. That moment stayed with me, and it's a reminder to be grateful - and to be kind, because you never know who might need it most.

Nic: One that I loved recently was an older guy who was walking about 30m in front of me down Jetty Rd in Glenelg. With the cost of living crisis hitting hard, there are now more and more people rough-sleeping on this particular road as it is a busy street with plenty of traffic and light. The guy in front of me walked past a youngish homeless male, asked if he had eaten dinner yet and whether he would like a pizza. The way he interacted with the person was the best part - it wasn't like he was his saviour or looking for a round of applause, it was very casual and just helpful. The guy was helping because he could and I really liked that. 

In what ways do you express love and gratitude to those closest to you?

Jo: Probably through the smallest, everyday actions. Trying to squeeze in a walk or ocean dip with my people - it's my way of staying connected in the middle of everything else going on. 

I don't think love is about expecting perfection. It's about accepting each other's differences and making space for the little things that matter. For me, that also means carving out time to just have fun - I'm a big believer that laughter, movement, and shared experiences are some of the best ways to stay close.

Nic: I like to check in. Just asking a lot of questions about what my loved ones have been up to and how they're going. I've made plenty of mistakes in my life and I've never felt inclined to judge other people, so I think my people find me pretty easy to talk to. 

Jo: Nic is definitely the easiest person to talk to, I can vouch for that. I could talk to him for hours and some of my closest friends call Nic and ask him for advice. He listens without judgment and a completely open mind. I love that about him.