Episoder
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How to Run Your Business Like An Elite Athlete
In this episode, Rachel is channeling her inner athlete as an entrepreneur? Yes, you read that right! Rachel realized that the lessons learned on the field could transform anyone's approach to business success. This episode offers a fresh perspective on structuring ambitious goals, breaking them down into actionable steps, implementing strategies, and maintaining consistency, even when you may not be feeling like getting up and doing the thing.
We also highlight the importance of teamwork, positivity, and well-beingâqualities essential for both athletes and business leaders. Rachel shares how building a cohesive, resilient team can lead to the production of not just superior products but also mold a healthier work environment. Don't miss how adopting the mindset of an elite athlete can lead to creating impactful change within your business.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Being an entrepreneur is a lot like being an elite athlete. Hear how.
-Athletes and entrepreneurs alike all need to be doing the incremental work each month, week, and day.
-Watching film vs. evaluating KPI's. It's essentially the same.
-Your team is everything!
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Struggling In Your Business? This One is For You
In this episode, Rachel is raw and real. The struggles of maintaining optimism amidst the pressures of business growth, especially in the wake of the pandemic and all of the other obstacles we have in front of us are REAL. This episode explores the realities of entrepreneurship, where trust is tested, and expectations aren't always met. From challenging interactions with old friends to the frustration of investing in opportunities that don't deliver, Rachel is not holding back from the emotional highs and lows that many of us face daily.
Resilience is so needed to persevere in these turbulent times, and the gratitude Rachel feels for her dedicated team who continue to push forward is also real, but that doesn't negate the complexities of refining backend systems and acquiring the mental toughness required to sustain a positive mindset. If you're struggling and just need a few minutes to listen to someone that is in the trenches with you, this episode is for you.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Unmarked Street hasn't hit the goals intended or reached all of the right people yet, but headed in the right direction.
-The reality of what is happening inside the industry.
-Having a positive mindset is required for success. Ultimately, what you believe is what will happen.
-Frustration is normal. It happens and it's okay.
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Manglende episoder?
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Lessons in Teamwork and Leadership from âTop Gun: Maverickâ
In this episode, Rachel has come up with a pretty cool parallel between the movie, Top Gun: Maverick and Teamwork in the apparel industry. Just like Maverick and his team of elite pilots, success in this industry demands more than just technical skillâit calls for powerful collaboration and the ability to thrive under pressure.
As I share stories from my experiences, I hope to inspire you to see how teamwork can elevate not just your career, but the entire creative process. Whether you're an assistant designer or a technical designer, your ability to engage and work effectively with others offers a unique edge in this industry. It's a space where resilience, self-motivation, and leadership are not just buzzwords but essential for success. I discuss the critical need to cultivate internal drive and the ability to lead amidst fierce competition.
In this episode, youâll hear:-You can still be a leader even if youâre not in a leadership role yet.
-How âTop Gun: Maverickâ is a great example of the process of teamwork.
-The importance of communication in this intensely competitive industry.
-You have to commit to your job and yourself to be able to get to where you want to be.
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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EP 100 - Celebrating Episode 100 with Rachelâs Husband!
In this episode, Rachel welcomes her husband to the podcast to help celebrate our 100th episode of the Business of Apparel! We go from the playful dynamics of being each other's supportersâlike when Rachel thought sheâd be a "sugar mama"âwhile sharing tips for maintaining sanity and a healthy marriage. The secrets to a successful partnership? A good dose of humor, effective communication, and continuously challenging each other to grow.
After numerous adventures have taken them all over the country and back to Colorado, each move has brought a few challenges, but also allowed for connection with various communities. Topics such as the decision to be childfree come up, which fuels decisions, allowing Rachel and her husband to pursue their passions without regret.
Wrapping up, a huge thanks to our listeners! We couldnât be at episode 100 without you and we invite you to explore further resources on our website tailored to help apparel professionals scale their businesses.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Meet Rachelâs husband!
-Some sage marriage advice from Rachel and her husband.
-How choosing to be childfree has opened up opportunities in their careers, but also in lifestyle.
-Time to get vulnerable - the challenging times, especially with multiple moves.
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Generational Ideas on Success, How to Grow Your Salary
In this episode, Rachel is approaching the viewpoints of what salaries each generation feels is necessary to be successful and how it shapes the wildly different perceptions of financial success. The fascinating disparities in salary and net worth expectations among these age groups is staggering. What's even more fascinating is how these figures reveal the broader economic challenges and aspirations defining each generationâs unique view of success. We'll also unpack what the average salary looks like in comparison to what average salaries look like in the fashion and apparel industry.
No matter what, patience, persistence, continued education, and professional growth can lead to financial success in the challenging yet rewarding world of fashion, as well as other industries in our society.
In this episode, youâll hear:-The amount each generation thinks they need is very indicative of how they define success.
-There's a huge misconception about "overnight" success.
-How to earn more and grow your salary in the fashion industry.
-Average salaries in the fashion industry.
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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3 of The Biggest Myths About The Fashion Industry
In this episode, Rachel is revealing the 3 biggest myths and misconceptions like starting a line with a lot of products or making something for everyone. Thereâs actually a lot of bad information out there about the fashion and apparel industry that can stifle growth for new brands and fashion professionals and weâre here to set the record straight. This episode is a bit of a sneak peek into our upcoming FREE, yes, free workshop series set for 2025, tailored for fashion design students, startups, and seasoned industry veterans. The workshop provides actionable steps and frameworks to help you navigate these misconceptions and forge a successful path in fashion. Don't miss out on our 90-minute Friday sessions designed to boost your industry knowledge and career prospects.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Thereâs a lot of bad information out there about the fashion and apparel industry. Get a leg up on the competition by attending our free workshops!
-Whether youâre a student, industry pro, or startup brand, there is something everyone can take away from this.
-The 3 biggest myths about the fashion industry, explained!
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Behind the Scenes of Podcasting
In this episode, Rachel is sharing her personal journey of starting this podcast in a way that suited her introverted nature. From choosing the right equipment to mastering camera engagement techniques, get an insider's look at the essential tools and strategies that keep the content fresh, engaging, and flowing. Consistency is key, and Rachel shares how life happening, like moving, makes it a little challenging to maintain a regular release schedule filled with diverse contentâfrom solo episodes to industry leader interviews. Plus, get a sneak peek into exciting changes coming in 2025 that promise to elevate your listening experience.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Reasons why Rachel started the Business of Apparel Podcast.
-How to start your own podcast - get recording!
-Consistency is key. The strategy behind the structure of the podcast that makes the consistency happen.
-Challenges Rachel has experienced, especially with guest interviews and what to expect in 2025!
Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Goal Setting 101: How to Set Goals for 2025
Happy New Year! In this episode, Rachel is walking us through how to set goals for 2025, and even sharing a few of her own goals with unmarked Street. Rachel also talks about her inspiration from Rachel Hollis's audiobooks and discusses the significance of envisioning long-term goals and working backward to create actionable steps. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a small business owner, or someone with personal aspirations, you'll discover the importance of setting realistic targets in the pursuit of success.
Finally, Rachel shares effective strategies for improving conversion rates through goal setting. Emphasizing the value of testing different messaging approaches, she explains how building rapport by offering valuable content can foster trust and familiarity with potential clients. By breaking down goals into smaller, manageable steps, you can set achievable targets that lead to meaningful outcomes.
In this episode, youâll hear:-The tools you have to be equipped with to be an entrepreneur.
-Look forward in your goal setting to work backwards.
-Actionable steps you need to take to help reach your goals.
-Our goals at Unmarked Street for 2025.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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What to Expect in The Fashion Industry in 2025 (Happy Holidays)
Happy Holidays and welcome back! In this episode, Rachel is reflecting on personal traditions for this time of year along with goal setting and what to expect in 2025 in the fashion industry. As we approach 2025, it's a perfect opportunity to hit the reset button, close the books on 2024, and set fresh goals for the coming year. Despite the challenges faced by the fashion industry in 2024, Rachel offers encouragement and reminds you that we are all in this together, with signs of economic improvement on the horizon. Let's embrace a positive outlook together and express gratitude for the past year's experiences.
In this episode, youâll hear:-The very peaceful tradition Rachel has on Christmas morning.
-The new year is a great time to start fresh, despite what you hear!
-Things are looking up in the fashion industry in 2025. What to expect.
-Make those resolutions if you want to - do you!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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How Much You Really Need to Save to Start An Apparel Line
In this episode, Rachel answers one of the most important questions you need to know the answer to when starting an apparel line: how much do you REALLY need to save? Learn why $200,000 is a realistic figure and what that truly covers. Spoiler alert: It's all about aligning your resources, from understanding website fees to navigating taxes and legalities.
That's not all. We'll talk about the real-world challenges of working with factories that might not fully grasp your target market's body types, and how these nuances can make or break customer satisfaction. Should you decide to start with a modest $1,200 or coming in strong with $5 million, a strategic plan is your best friend. Learn strategies to manage expenses and even leverage credit cards to smooth out cash flow hiccups. Plus, discover why being part of a community is invaluable, offering exclusive insights and resources. This episode is a must-listen reality check for anyone looking to start an apparel line.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Realistic costs associated with starting an apparel line and ways to distribute those costs throughout the process.
-The importance of quality when it comes to your garments.
-Why not focusing on fit is a HUGE mistake: customers simply won't come back.
-You can start with less, but be prepared for a very lengthy process.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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EP 93 - New Potential Tariffs, How They Will Impact the Apparel Industry
In this episode, Rachel is tackling a subject that's been on everyone's minds, tariffs and what that means for businesses AND consumers. We start by unraveling the concept of duty rates, how tariffs are calculated based on the manufacturer's cost rather than the retail price, highlighting how this affects brand expenses and consumer prices. Rachel also touches on the importance of sourcing materials strategically to maintain favorable rates and make informed manufacturing decisions.
We'll explore the challenges of U.S. apparel manufacturing amidst recent tariff announcements and examine the hurdles of domestic production due to limited infrastructure and workforce. Finally, we'll look at strategies for businesses to mitigate these effects of tariffs, such as pre-purchasing materials and planning long-term production needs. By holding inventory or raw goods, companies can help avoid future tariff-related expenses to a degree. While this episode was pre-recorded and information may change by the day, it's important that we stay informed and proactive as we navigate these potential economic changes together.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Tariffs are not a new concept, but what exactly are they and how do they affect businesses and buyers?
-Different areas are subjected to different duty rates.
-The challenges of manufacturing in the U.S. is largely due to our infrastructure.
-Ultimately, it's up to the brand whether or not to pass along the additional costs to the buyer.
-What steps can we take now to minimize impact of these new, potential tariffs.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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EP 92 - Answering All of Your Apparel Sourcing Questions with Expert, Cheryl Tzeng
In this episode, I'm sitting down with Cheryl Tzeng from Short Street Company to answer all of your questions about apparel sourcing! We explore the critical factors for selecting the right factory, including evaluating capabilities for your specific product type and ensuring alignment with your brandâs production needs. Cheryl is an expert in sourcing and is sharing her wealth of knowledge on building strong factory partnerships through open communication and mutual respect. Cheryl also shares how strategic decisions about the country of origin to optimize costs and enhance product value are essential.
Sustainability and social responsibility come to the forefront as we discuss the importance of certifications like Blue Sign, fair wages, and community involvement when choosing your manufacturing partners. Cheryl offers advice on negotiating vendor contracts to foster mutually beneficial relationships, such as tailoring minimum order quantities (MOQ's) and lead times to fit your brandâs unique needs. We get into production planning strategies like establishing clear Service Level Agreements (SLA's) and maintaining organized processes to mitigate risks and ensure quality standards. This episode is packed with so much valuable information to help you streamline your production process and cultivate lasting partnerships in the apparel industry.
In this episode, youâll hear:-The top 3 things you need to consider when choosing a factory to work with.
-Don't sleep on Country of Origin! Hear why it's so important.
-How sustainability factors into your manufacturing starts with where YOU want to be.
-Lead times and MOQ's are essential when it comes to negotiating terms of a contract with your factory.
-You must set expectations with your factory...it helps everyone involved.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Connect with Cheryl:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryltzeng/
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Thanksgiving Gratitude and Being Grateful For Whatâs Next
Happy Thanksgiving! In today's episode, Rachel is giving thanks and reflecting on her daily practice of gratitude that truly transforms her mindset, as well as expressing how grateful she is for what's coming up! Focusing on small, daily joys can lead to a more positive outlook, even when life gets tough. Recently, Rachel was inspired by the vibrant energy of students at Colorado State University, where she had a fulfilling experience of engaging with these future industry leaders through speaking engagements and mock interviews.
This collaboration is a key part of Unmarked Street's upcoming initiatives, highlighting the impact of giving back and building a supportive community as we build something special for 2025. Make sure you listen to the full episode for all the details about what's next at Unmarked Street!
In this episode, youâll hear:-Happy Thanksgiving! What I love so much about this holiday.
-How a consistent gratitude practice can really make a huge difference in your life.
-The intention behind practicing daily gratitude.
-One thing I'm grateful for that is coming up at Unmarked Street!
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Chasing Revenue vs. Chasing Consistency
In this episode, Rachel is aiming to shift focus from immediate revenue to long-term stability through consistency and tips on how to modify your approach. After her experience with hiring a bookkeeper and seeing how they transformed her financial management views, it helped Rachel gain perspective and remain positive, even if revenue targets for 2024 remain unmet. Laying a rock-solid foundation is crucial for achieving future success.
We also touch on the impact of patience and routine tasks that we do every day and how these tasks are actually what set us up for true success in the long run. Rachel provides tips for organizing roles and responsibilities as well as how analyzing data can enhance business operations. By shifting your mindset from chasing revenue to chasing consistency, your apparel brand will have a better chance to flourish in the industry.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Rachel opens up about not hitting her financial goals for this year.
-It takes time to lay a good foundation for your business.
-It's the work you don't want to do daily that moves the needle forward.
-Keys to focus on: Clearly defining team roles and data analytics.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Behind the Scenes of Life As A Design Director with Megan Krajco
In this episode, Rachel connects with Megan Krajco as she navigates her brand new role for Paka as a Design Director. Megan shares her nearly two-decade journey from an intern at Garnet Hill to a design director role, offering just a snapshot of the wisdom sheâs gained along the way. Megan's self-direction and perseverance played a pivotal role in her growth through the ranks. From marketing insights to merchandising strategies, her extensive experience with small to mid-sized brands has equipped her with a holistic view of the industry. Megan emphasizes the power of networking, continuous learning, and the invaluable support of industry connections, all of which are essential for anyone looking to craft a thriving career in fashion.
We also touch on the essential role of mentorship and leadership development in shaping a successful professional path. Explore Megan's thoughts on the impact of supportive versus stifling managers and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude amidst challenges. This episode offers an enlightening discussion that focuses on the intersection of creativity and business acumen in the apparel world.
In this episode, youâll hear:-Meganâs journey into the apparel industry and her self-guided approach to gaining traction in her career.
-Learning to take the ego out is key!
-Working with small startups allows opportunity for testing theories and creating an iconic look for the brand.
-What you do will always affect someone else - you become a better designer when you understand the process along the lifecycle of a garment.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Connect with Megan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganakrajco/
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Californiaâs New Legislation for Apparel Sustainability
In this episode, Rachel is getting into the nitty gritty about Californiaâs new legislation coming into place that focuses on apparel sustainability, AB 347 and SB 707.. These regulations are not just another legal hurdle but a driving force compelling brands to rethink their materials and processes, particularly in reducing reliance on harmful PFAS (forever chemicals). European precedents have actually been pushing the U.S. to adapt swiftly for years now and weâre examining the innovations emerging from this challenge and the industry's race to maintain product quality without compromising on these new environmental standards.
Rachel breaks down all of the information she has received and goes into detail, helping us to understand what some of the terminology really means. We also focus a bit more on the potential of SB 707 in addressing textile waste. Itâs not just about recycling but about building a sustainable framework for the future. We'll dissect how SB 707 is paving the way by encouraging community involvement and innovation in garment recycling. Perfection does not exist though and Rachel is sharing what her personal concerns are regarding the recycling of particular types of goods.
For more information about the new legislation, please visit http://www.californiaoutdoor.org/.
In this episode, youâll hear:-What exactly are PFAS?
-How does the fashion industry use PFAS and what the industry is doing to lessen the use of these forever chemicals.
-Why you need to take action NOW.
-Detailed breakdown of each bill and the concerns Rachel has about future recycling plans.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Embracing Empathy and Comfort Through the Apparel Business with Barely Canadian Founder, Kelly Slattery
In this episode, Rachel is chatting with Kelly Slattery, the visionary co-founder of Barely Canadian, who is sharing insights from her journey on establishing a brand with a heartfelt mission. Cozy apparel is only part of the story as Kelly forges a brighter future for youth in the foster care system. Through her nonprofit, Fosterpreneur, she empowers youth to build their own brands and secure stable futures, all while instilling the values of gratitude and positivity that are foundational to her life and work.
Barely Canadian's commitment to using high-quality materials and maintaining high standards sets it apart, even attracting partnerships with major retailers like Neiman Marcus. Kelly's dedication extends beyond business as she fosters and mentors youth, and builds community networks like "Power Ladies" to support women in Los Angeles. Her motto, âthe more we give, the more we get backâ is a testament to how this episode highlights the power of community, emphasizing how these connections can drive both personal and professional growth.
More about Barely Canadian:
Barely Canadian is a family business that creates insanely soft sweaters, hoodies, onesies, sunsies, smittens, and other comfy apparel and accessories to keep you cozy, feeling at home, and layered in color, love and acceptance. Having both fostered and adopted from foster care, we are passionate about our mission to continue to serve foster youth, and to share the gifts these deserving and brilliant kids bring to our world.Barely Canadian is all about giving back through extreme softness. We're redefining premium apparel and accessories by combining unbeatable softness, sheer luxury, and sustainable practices. We locally source and craft our garments and accessories from unbelievably soft, sustainable materials that leave you feeling as good as you look.
But here's the exciting part: we don't just offer pre-made pieces! We invite you to be part of the creative process, infusing your unique branding and style into our high-quality, custom creations.
In this episode, youâll hear:
-The mission behind the brand, Barely Canadian.
-Always be kind, even when something has gone wrong.
-How the chosen fabric for the brand embodies the mission of comfort and empathy.
-Mistakes Kelly has made in her business, but always keeping in mind - thereâs always an answer.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Connect with Barely Canadian:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/barelycanadian/
Website: https://barelycanadian.com/
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Our Community Asked, We Have Answers! Unmarked Street Q&A with Rachel
In this episode, Rachel addresses the questions asked by those in the Unmarked Street community like, How has Unmarked Street grown so fast, How have we gotten to 15,000 Instagram followers, and so much more! First, itâs important to know that personal definitions of success can vary greatly. Rachel shares her initial vision of achieving a steady five-figure monthly income and how this mindset, inspired by witnessing other success stories, propelled our company forward.
Rachel answers each question in detail and drops invaluable knowledge about how managing your money mindset is so impactful, why podcasting makes the most sense given Rachelâs personality, and how learning to âget over itâ when it comes to being on camera really helped nip insecurities right in the bud. Also, learn how our commitment to exceeding client expectations, authenticity, and a holistic approach to services has fostered strong relationships and community growth.
In this episode, youâll hear:
-Success looks different to everyone - weâre just getting started.
-Learn to manage your money mentality.
-Engagement is key for Instagram growth.
-Learning to get over your insecurities on camera is essential for not just podcasting, but for the success of your business.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Finding the Real Treasures in the Struggles with Youer Founder, Mallory Ottariano
In this episode, Rachel sits down for a fascinating conversation with Mallory Ottariano about her unexpected journey into fashion entrepreneurship and the creation of her brand, Youer.. From dreaming of architecture to finding her true calling in design, Malloryâs story is one of creativity, resilience, and innovation. She recounts her beginnings with a simple Etsy shop and the eventual evolution of her previous brand, Kind Apparel, ultimately leading to the creation of Youer. Her journey is filled with passion and the determination to ultimately make it work, no matter what it took.
In the early days of the pandemic, Mallory faced overwhelming supply chain disruptions, like many, that threatened the very survival of her business. This episode details her struggle to maintain production, operate from a basement, and even code a crowdfunding page from scratch. Through incredible perseverance, she successfully rebranded her business and pivoted to in-house production, setting the stage for a triumphant product launch that would change the trajectory of her business as she knows it.
We also explore the unique marketing strategies that have set Youer apart, including an annual treasure hunt event and various other marketing tactics. Malloryâs approach to being the face of her brand, her engaging social media presence, and her carefully-crafted content make her a must-follow and stand-out in the community of apparel.
More about Youer:
In 2012 I was fresh out of architecture school and looking to keep a creative outlet alive so I bought a $100 serger (a sweet sewing machine) on eBay and started sewing clothes in my parents basement (like, the closet where the Christmas decorations are stored part of the basement) to sell on Etsy. My mom found a great free table on the side of the road and loaded it on to the roof of her â98 Subaru and that was my work station. My materials were thrift store clothes that I would spend hours shopping for and cutting up to sew into really wacky things that were colorful and weird and one of a kind.In this episode, youâll hear:
-Malloryâs incredible journey that led to her starting her brands.
-The tough journey through the pandemic and the one product launch that turned everything around.
-Some of the biggest obstacles in manufacturing in the US, particularly from a remote location in Montana.
-The marketing advice Mallory did not take that ultimately worked out for the better.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Connect with Youer:
IG: @shopyouer
Website: https://www.shopyouer.com/
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Donât Make This Mistake! The Importance of Product Ownership
In this episode, Rachel is getting really passionate about the possibility of making one huge mistakeâŠnot taking ownership of your products in your apparel brand. In Rachelâs 20+ years of experience in the apparel industry, sheâs seen and heard it all. She shares real-life stories and recent client calls that demonstrate how skipping certain steps can compromise your product's quality and jeopardize your brand's future. From production mishaps to changing vendors, she goes deep in explaining the significant dangers and highlights why itâs important to retain control over your tech packs, patterns, and materials to ensure consistency, customer loyalty, and brand survival.
In this episode, youâll hear:
-A lot of start-ups are developing product through their manufacturers - why this is a HUGE mistake.
-At some point, you will need to diversify your sourcing base.
-A real-life example of what can go wrong and what can happen when thereâs a mishap with your factory.
-Why itâs important to own your tech packs and patterns and how this helps you in the future.
We canât wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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