Empowering Legacies in Fashion and Family: A Conversation with Jill Fishman and Samantha Benson

In this heartfelt interview, SEAM founder Amy Cohen Epstein speaks with fashion industry veterans Jill Fishman and Samantha Benson. Jill, a seasoned brand builder for names like Michael Kors, and Samantha, founder of the children’s brand Sam and Nat, share their experiences navigating careers, health challenges, and personal loss. Together, they discuss the resilience required to thrive in fashion and the dedication to family that fuels their work. Join Amy, Jill, and Samantha as they explore the powerful connections between family, women’s health, and the legacy each woman hopes to create.

Amy Cohen Epstein:
We are jumping into this today because we're running a little bit late, so I am just going to dive in with Jill Fishman and Samantha Benson, two veterans of the fashion industry who have worked for multiple incredible designers. Jill has worked with brands like Michael Kors and Donna Karan. Jill, would you say “brand builder” is an accurate way to describe you?

Jill Fishman:
Sure, I’ll take it.

Amy:
Samantha, on the other hand, has her own brand, Sam and Nat, which focuses on the children’s space. So let's jump right in. Jill, why don’t you start by introducing yourself, giving a little bit of your background, and maybe sharing why you’re here with me today, considering my focus on women’s health, wellness, and preventive care.

Jill:
Thank you, Amy. I’m Jill, based in Tribeca, New York, with my family and 12-year-old son. I’ve been in the fashion business since college, mostly in licensing, marketing, and international spaces. I spent 20 years at Michael Kors, starting when there were 40 people—now there are 15,000. It’s been an amazing journey. I’ve run their licensing division and worked on several other projects. As for why I’m here, in December 2020, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and later had a hysterectomy. I’m happy to share my story and connect with you on that level.

Amy:
It’s funny because one of my best friends has been at her job since college, and I told her how rare it is for people to stay with one company for decades now. It’s almost unheard of. But it’s amazing, too—watching a company grow and being a part of it in a way that’s not as common in today’s world.

Jill:
Oh, a hundred percent. I don’t think there’s anyone else at the company from when I started. I’ve had so many roles and seen the company through different phases. It really became home, and I truly loved it. They were so supportive when I had to step back during my health challenges.

Amy:
That’s really neat. And who doesn’t love Michael Kors? Samantha, tell us about yourself.

Samantha Benson:
Sure! I’m Samantha. I actually started my career at Michael Kors in branding and marketing—Jill and I worked together for about five years. Toward the end of my time there, I started thinking about a children’s wear brand. I was going to a lot of baby showers and couldn’t find quality gifts I was proud to give. So I began creating fashion-forward, quality baby gifts that were easy to shop for. I eventually launched Sam and Nat, opened a few stores, and built a business that’s anchored as a baby gifting destination. The brand also tells a personal story: my mom, who passed away when I was young, was a midwife. Sam and Nat is named after me and my sister Natalie, and it felt like a full-circle moment to honor her legacy.

Amy:
And how did your mom pass away?

Samantha:
She passed away from breast cancer when I was seven, and my sister was four. It was a difficult time, but it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come in terms of treatment options and awareness.

Amy:
I can only imagine. Losing a parent as a child shapes you in so many ways. I was 21 when my mom passed away, and it’s still raw for me even now, especially as I have kids around the same age. Those years are so formative.

Samantha:
Yes, it’s definitely something that impacts you. Now, seeing my nieces at the ages my sister and I were when we lost our mom, I think about it a lot. It’s a big part of why I wanted to create something meaningful through Sam and Nat.

Amy:
Samantha, you mentioned that a lot of women have ideas for brands but don’t pursue them. How did you take your idea and turn it into reality?

Samantha:
Honestly, I don’t know! I think I always had a creative drive. I was that kid selling bracelets to neighbors or pretending to be an interior designer. When I started at Michael Kors, it gave me a solid foundation. Being there during such a pivotal time in the company’s growth taught me so much. Eventually, I just jumped in and went for it, believing in what I was creating.

Jill:
Every time I’d talk to Sam, she’d be working out of her dad’s garage, shipping products herself, just figuring it all out. She kept going, no matter what.

Amy:
Jill, you’ve been a brand builder for some incredible companies. How did you find your path?

Jill:
I actually thought I’d work on Wall Street! I interned at Donna Karan for a few summers, and one thing led to another. I found myself in licensing, managing partnerships with companies like Fossil and Estee Lauder to create products that align with the brand. I love working with creatives, motivating them strategically. Every day was different, and I was fortunate to be part of Michael Kors as it evolved.

Amy:
And what’s next for you?

Jill:
I’d like to work with smaller companies, helping founders shape their strategic paths and grow their businesses. I think that would be a great way to use my experience.

Amy:
I love that. And that’s actually how we connected—through Boundless Giving, a platform you’re helping develop.

Jill:
Yes, Boundless Giving connects products to charities, creating a platform where people can make purchases that support causes. It’s a wonderful way for brands to engage in purposeful giving and sustainability.

Amy:
It’s brilliant. And I love that there’s a sustainability angle to it.

Jill:
Exactly. It allows brands to extend their purpose and create meaningful impact beyond traditional fundraising.

Amy:
Both of you have personal histories with cancer in your families. What are you doing to stay proactive with your health?

Samantha:
I started with BRCA testing and annual mammograms in my late twenties. Now I get MRIs between mammograms for added monitoring. Knowing my baseline is so important to me.

Amy:
And that’s fantastic. A lot of women don’t take those steps, even with a family history. Jill, how about you?

Jill:
My mom survived breast cancer, but my diagnosis came when my gynecologist found a lump during a routine check-up. I skipped screenings during COVID, so I’m grateful she was thorough. Now, I stay vigilant with all my appointments. I’m so thankful to have a doctor who takes extra care, especially with screening protocols that might not be standard.

Amy:
You both are such examples of taking ownership of your health. Women need to be their own advocates, and having a consistent gynecologist who knows you is crucial. Thank you both for sharing your stories. It’s been wonderful, and I truly appreciate your time.

Jill:
Thank you, Amy. It was great talking to you today.

Samantha:
Yes, thank you so much, Amy. It’s been a pleasure.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.