Hey, I’m Riz McDonald! I’m the Foundd-er (get it?) and Director of Foundd Legal, a lawyer with 16 years of experience under my belt and a successful e-commerce entrepreneur of 10 years. I’m also a creative thinker (for mind your own beeswax number of years), a mum and all-around lover of life if I do say so, myself.
As a creative entrepreneur, I bring first-hand experience, insight and legal know-how to all the tricky processes and challenges you face as a creative entrepreneur.
I’m not here to bamboozle you, or bore you to tears (though there may be a few from giggling). Foundd Legal exists to make tricky legal things easier, less boooooriiiiiing and way more #partyvibes. Because I want you to feel legally legit (and empowered ‘bout it).
When did you start your business?
Foundd launched on 3 September 2019.
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
When I started Foundd, I was tired of the old-school traditions of working in a brick-and-mortar firm. I knew I wanted to have more freedom and flexibility whilst still working in law. But I also recognised that I had a passion for working with creatives and supporting them on their business journeys. I saw a gap in the market as I spent more and more time working with these awesome creative entrepreneurs and business owners — and took the leap. I knew legals cost a ton and I wanted to make them more affordable and accessible. I also wanted to help creatives understand the importance of being legally legit and what all of their legal contracts and needs meant so they could feel empowered.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I’m most excited about continuing to grow Foundd! And as part of that, all of the creative, outside the box thinking about how to deliver legals I get to do. Law can be pretty darn dry…I want to make them fun, not just for our clients but for myself! It helps me love my work.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
As with most businesses it’s those startup costs and a lack of funds straight off the bat that make it challenging. You really have to take a leap of faith to a certain extent. Finding time and the resources needed to set up a law firm while also working to earn an income and take care of my family were not always easy to navigate, either. But Foundd got there!
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
First and foremost, I’d encourage them to choose something they love! If they don’t love what they’re creating and putting their blood, sweat and tears into, what’s the point?
I’d also stress how important it is come to the table with a strategy and end goal in mind. Laying out a clear path for what you’re working to achieve allows you to more effectively plan the steps you need to take to get there.
Systems and processes are also huge. They make for greater productivity and allow you to focus on what you love and growing your business, rather than getting lost in the day-to-day administration and grunt work.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I was nominated the previous year and whilst I was a finalist I didn’t win, I loved the experience and the friendships that were created. I wanted to experience that again! Annnd, it’s so nice to be recognised for what you do. It’s all just a massive feel-good and empowering time.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
There’s so much I loved about being a part of the awards. But if I had to choose a few? I’d say the community that I’ve become a part of, the friendships I’ve built and the incredible amount of support every woman who’s a part of them offer each other. It’s pretty magical.
What surprised you most about the awards?
I must admit, I was blown away by just how much more it is than a trophy saying “good work”. It’s a community of bloody amazing women!
How did the awards help you in your business?
The awards gifted me with the opportunity to meet inspirational women and helped to build brand awareness for Foundd Legal as we as a business continue to grow.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
Do it! Whether you win an award or not isn’t the point. The point is, you get the opportunity to become part of this wonderful, supportive community of inspirational women who know exactly what you are going through. And you get to cheer each other on and lift each other up every step of the way!
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
Starting my own business has allowed me more flexibility which in turn has created space for me to be more available for my children. I also love that I get to make my own decisions. When I have an idea or vision of what I can build or create, I get to run with it. And that is hugely empowering and exciting!
What’s happening next in your business?
We’re going to continue to grow our digital offerings and I’m very excited to say we’ll be expanding into New Zealand.
What are your big plans for the future?
I’m going to continue to grow Foundd and make it global!
What is your website and/or social media links (eg. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram)
https://www.instagram.com/founddlegal/
https://www.facebook.com/founddlegal
https://www.linkedin.com/company/founddlegal/
