Rachel Erickson brings her 20 years of expertise in the apparel manufacturing industry to this show to inspire you to build your best brand yet.
Each week, you’ll hear from Rachel along with other industry experts who are shedding light on what is needed to build your own apparel line from scratch or to take your existing apparel brand to the next level and create sustainable and unstoppable growth. Rachel’s big emphasis on proper techniques, sustainable practices and business clarity will be sure to help you create loyal customers who happily purchase from you again and again.
Make sure you follow this podcast so you don’t miss a single episode if you’re running your own apparel business or looking to start!
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40 to 40 Series, Week 6: Confirming and Questioning My Stance on Religion
Episode 79
Thursday, September 5, 2024 • Duration 18:04
40 to 40 Series, Week 6: Confirming and Questioning My Stance on Religion
In this episode, Rachel is wrapping up the 40 to 40 series with the controversial topic of Religion. Rachel grew up in a devout Catholic family, and was accustomed to the rituals and traditions that defined her early years—attending Catholic school, participating in weekly mass, and going through various sacraments like baptism and first communion. She recounts her journey through Catholicism, the doubts that surfaced, and how these experiences prompted her to question if this faith truly resonated with her personal beliefs and values.
Transitioning from a strictly religious upbringing to an agnostic stance opened Rachel’s mind to a broader spectrum of belief systems, allowing her to maintain a non-judgmental outlook. We explore the significance of cultivating personal spirituality outside the confines of organized religion, and how moral and ethical values have consistently guided her life. Emphasizing the importance of self-pride and authenticity, she reflects on how these principles contribute to a fulfilling existence.
Finally, prepare for an exciting future at The Business of Apparel Podcast, which will kick off with a rebranding announcement! So, stay tuned, and don’t miss it!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-Rachel’s Catholic background and a history of sacraments in the Catholic church.
-When Rachel started to question her relationship with Catholicism and the church.
-Some of the challenges Rachel started to see in regard to her values.
-Why Rachel was devastated after being told she couldn’t be saved and was going to Hell.
-How being Agnostic is a much better fit at the moment for Rachel.
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
40 to 40 Series, Week 5: My Gender Discrimination Story
Episode 78
Thursday, August 29, 2024 • Duration 28:27
40 to 40 Series, Week 5: My Gender Discrimination Story
In this episode, Rachel is discussing another hard-hitting topic in the 40 to 40 Series, this time…gender discrimination. Growing up, Rachel was always told that hard work would pave the way to success, but her journey in the corporate fashion industry has shown a harsher reality. Rachel shares very personal stories of confronting gender discrimination and the systemic biases that undermine women’s ambitions. She touches on the harsh perceptions and roadblocks she faced, especially when her choice to be child-free led to judgments and obstacles that no amount of hard work could change.
The fight for pay equality is a tough battle, one that Rachel knows all too well. She recounts a struggle when she was offered a promotion with a glaring pay gap compared to my male predecessor. With the help of the DEI department, they unearthed shocking systemic pay disparities affecting women in their company. The resistance they faced will shock you.
Finally, Rachel shares a significant personal experience with gender discrimination from a female manager, highlighting how deeply hurtful words can be. Do not miss this episode and prepare to gain valuable insights and learn how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-The TRUE definition of feminism.
-Equity vs Equality.
-The amount of pushback from female leadership Rachel encountered while fighting for equal pay.
-How the fear of being walked all over creates a persona you don’t want to develop.
-The one thing Rachel was told that she still can’t believe to this day!
Crossing the Goal Line: From Corporate to Consulting with Prashanth Peketi
Episode 68
Thursday, June 27, 2024 • Duration 33:56
Crossing the Goal Line: From Corporate to Consulting with Prashanth Peketi
In today’s episode, Rachel is sitting down for a chat with Prashanth Paketi, an experienced project manager and consultant who has worked with corporate giants like Adidas and Nike, to share his career journey and insights from the world of apparel. Prashanth takes us through his fascinating transition from Ohio to Germany, painting a realistic picture of the innovative environment and immense resources at major companies like Adidas and Nike. He also candidly discusses the trade-offs of working in large corporations, where roles can be highly specialized, compared to the more varied experience in smaller spaces.
Shifting gears, we explore the dynamic shift from big corporations to the fast-paced world of startups. Prashanth opens up about the initial shock of moving from a well-defined role to a multifaceted one, emphasizing the importance of acquiring diverse skills early on. Drawing parallels to the sports world, we highlight how professionals, much like athletes, benefit from a broad skill set, paving the way for career success through diverse experiences.
Finally, we tackle the transition from corporate roles to consulting, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities that come with it. Prashanth shares his wisdom on the necessity of flexibility, continuous learning, and confidence when addressing complex challenges in consulting. We discuss the immense value of industry experience, particularly in apparel, and how it shapes a successful consulting career. Wrapping up, we share practical tips on building trust and effective project management, emphasizing the importance of understanding team members as individuals and establishing a shared vision for success.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-What it’s like to be involved with corporate giants like Adidas and Nike.
-The experience in transitioning from the corporate space to a smaller company in the apparel business.
-How your career experience helps you to be a better consultant.
Best Of: The Top 3 Business of Apparel Podcast Episodes
Episode 68
Thursday, June 20, 2024 • Duration 24:32
Best Of: The Top 3 Business of Apparel Podcast Episodes
In today’s episode, Rachel is giving us something a little unique. We’ve compiled the top 3 performing Business of Apparel Podcast episodes for you! This episode includes snippets of the following episodes:
-International vs. Domestic Manufacturing, What You Need to Think About
-Light the Fire in Your Apparel Business vs. Putting the Fire Out with Yushkova Design Founder, YAY
-How to Get Your First Promotion at Work
Like what you hear? We encourage you to go back and listen to the full episodes to get the full experience of why each of these episodes garnered their top spots!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-Pros and cons between manufacturing internationally and domestically.
-Real-life examples for considering cost, timing, shipping, and quality when it comes to deciding where to manufacture.
-YAY’s background and history within the apparel business and the mistakes she made, while learning how to use those experiences to her advantage.
-Learning to be proactive in your business instead of reactive.
-Promotions are earned, not given.
-Learn to love learning and accept that what seems like the most mundane of tasks is actually helping to get ahead in your career.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course:
On the Way to Hellville: My Brandy Melville Documentary Review
Episode 67
Thursday, June 13, 2024 • Duration 24:44
On the Way to Hellville: My Brandy Melville Documentary Review
In today’s episode, Rachel is putting a twist on the subject of sustainability and fast fashion by offering her review of a popular HBO MAX documentary, Brandy Hellville & The Cult of Fast Fashion. Having spent her fair share of time in the trenches of manufacturing with Abercrombie & Fitch, the exclusive yet criticized world of brands like Brandy Melville feels all too familiar. In the “glamor” of fashion, we often ignore the pressing issues of sustainability and inclusivity. These experiences have sharpened Rachel’s skills in creating attire for those who want to be able to have movement and quality in their garments and refuse to settle for anything less than the best.
Today, we're pulling some threads, exposing truths behind 'Made in Italy' and diving into global manufacturing realities. It's not just about the labels; it's about understanding the cultural and economic landscapes that define the apparel industry. And as we stand at the crossroads of consumerism and conservation, the adverse effects of fast fashion become glaringly apparent. Join Rachel in her mission to create awareness so we can begin to make differences and impact the world inside, and outside of the apparel industry.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-The correlation between the documentary and Rachel’s experiences at Abercrombie & Fitch.
-How the exclusionary nature behind the practices at Brandy Melville and other brands shape societal thinking, especially among certain demographics of young women.
-An explanation of distinct practices used that indicate super low quality in fast fashion brands.
-How fast fashion is continuing to deteriorate sustainability in the apparel industry.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
How to Play The Office Politics Game
Episode 66
Thursday, June 6, 2024 • Duration 22:49
How to Play The Office Politics Game
In today’s episode, Rachel diving right into corporate office politics and in the industry of apparel, Rachel has learned a thing or two about securing that next promotion or pay raise. It's a journey layered with challenges and requires a combination of strategy, education, and sometimes defensive measures when things go haywire. Rachel goes into how to distinguish yourself from your peers through self-motivated learning in a sector that rewards but doesn't always require it, and offers insights into how a savvy supervisor can be the key to shielding their team from the whirlwind of office politics.
Rachel also gets real about taming a fiery temperament and the transformative power of humility. The road to becoming an effective leader was paved with tough conversations, weekly sit-downs, and accepting the kind of feedback that can sting. Tune in for practical tips on tapping into company resources like tuition reimbursement to fuel your journey without emptying your wallet and why embracing criticism as a catalyst for growth is a move that will continue to provide value in your career for the long haul.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-You have to learn how to play the corporate office politics game whether you want to or not.
-Actionable tips to set yourself apart and get ahead.
-Ask about tuition reimbursement for continued education!
-Document things being said and incidents if you’re having an issue as work.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Tailoring to Modern Moms in The Apparel Industry with Magda Lasota
Episode 65
Thursday, May 30, 2024 • Duration 41:24
Tailoring to Modern Moms in The Apparel Industry with Magda Lasota
In today’s episode, Rachel is chatting with the very talented, Magda Lasota, the force behind MLM Brand! When Magda traded her corporate badge for the entrepreneurial rollercoaster, she didn't just start a business; she sparked a movement for mothers in the workplace. Magda recounts her evolution from a new mom in the corporate grind to an innovator in maternity apparel. She opens up about the postpartum challenges that led her to create a line of stylish nursing wear designed for the modern working mother. Magda's passion shines through as she discusses the support new moms need and how her brand aims to celebrate and empower them every day.
Building a brand from scratch is no small feat, especially when you're committed to sustainability and local production. Magda shares the behind-the-scenes of her journey with MLM Brand, from celebrating the complexities of manufacturing in LA to finding a sweet spot between ethical production costs and her company's core values. The conversation navigates the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and the crucial role of community backing for small businesses like hers. Magda's story is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to craft a brand that not only looks good but feels good—from the manufacturing floor to the boardroom to the playground.
Magdalena Lasota founded MLM BRAND in 2019 because she wanted to make the fourth trimester easier for moms by creating a collection of elevated, timeless maternity pieces. MLM Brand's mission is to create a fewer, better maternity wardrobe so you can feel good and focus on what truly matters in those early months, years of motherhood. MLM Brand's elevated high quality basics are thoughtfully designed to seamlessly fit into your pre-pregnancy style and to achieve stylish, comfortable, motherhood-friendly outfits — in the office and at the playground.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-How being a mom in the corporate world inspired the MLM Brand.
Clean Out the Proverbial Closet: My Small Wardrobe is On Purpose!
Episode 64
Thursday, May 23, 2024 • Duration 21:03
Clean Out the Proverbial Closet: My Small Wardrobe is On Purpose!
In today’s episode, Rachel is addressing the digital trolls, encouraging us to clean out our proverbial closets by way of realizing that focusing on the negative comments is worthless, and the reasons why her wardrobe is intentionally small. Rachel shares real strategies to brush off the most unwelcome of digital feedback—yes, even those unsolicited "boob jokes" and those relentlessly negative comments. Maintaining focus on the positive comments to continue pedaling towards success is essentially highlighted in this episode.
When it comes to dressing for success in a sustainable way, Rachel’s got some ideas that are as stylish as they are responsible. We're talking about the chic intersection where business attire meets environmental consciousness, and how Rachel’s minimalist wardrobe choices reflect Unmarked Street's commitment to ethical fashion and professionalism. By choosing quality over quantity and supporting transparent brands, this episode unpacks the long-term financial and ethical gains of a sustainably-minded professional closet.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-The types of comments coming in from the trolls - the boob jokes are getting old!
-For all of the negative comments, there are always positive comments highlighting the impact that is being made.
-The evolution of Rachel’s closet and why her wardrobe is so small.
-Shopping for high-quality garments vs. low-quality has so much more benefit in the long run…for you and the planet.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Girl Math: Shatter the Stigma and Make It Work For You
Episode 63
Thursday, May 16, 2024 • Duration 19:33
Girl Math: Shatter the Stigma and Make It Work For You
In today’s episode, Rachel is approaching the ever-so-popular subject of Girl Math, the stereotype along with it and how to make it work FOR you. We are reclaiming the term as a symbol of women's financial acumen. Rachel describes how, *gasp,* women are actually good with numbers! We will touch on Nicole Lapin's empowering reads and we navigate the misconceptions that often undermine women's abilities in math and money management. Here, being a 'boss bitch' is a badge of honor, symbolizing control over your own life and finances.
Further into our discussion, we explore the smart economics behind fashion and apparel investments and the long-term value of quality apparel. By applying the concept of cost-per-use, we shed light on how luxury items can align with your budgeting practices, ultimately supporting sustainable shopping habits. Rachel also shares valuable industry insights and describes how supporting sustainable brands can not only work for you, but also for the economy, and planet.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-Guess what!? Girls are good at math too! Don’t buy into the stigma.
-Recommended reading from Nicole Lapin, the inspiration behind Rachel’s leadership style.
-How to figure out if an item is worth purchasing.
-Think about the quality of what you are purchasing.
-Supporting sustainable brands will help you, your budget, the planet, and so much more.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
How to Train for Running A Successful Business with Martha Schoenewe
Episode 62
Thursday, May 9, 2024 • Duration 30:04
How to Train for Running A Successful Business with Martha Schoenewe
In today’s episode, Rachel is sitting down with Martha Schoenewe, the creative force behind Tangent Tees, who joins us to weave her personal narrative of overcoming doubt to become a staunch advocate for runners and human beings of every shape and size. We will discover the vibrancy of community and empowerment that color Martha's journey, setting a new standard in the industry that celebrates diversity without penalizing it financially.
Both Rachel and Martha share stories of triumph over trials, and even learning, yes, learning how to love running. We dive into the art of perfecting your pitch, especially in the competitive ring of entrepreneurship. From the small victories like securing that dream domain to discerning between the must-haves and nice-to-haves, every detail matters. Whether you're stitching together the beginnings of your brand or scaling to new heights, this episode is your tailor-made guide to navigating the course of the apparel industry.
Martha Schoenewe is the founder and owner of Tangent Tees. At Tangent Tees, we believe running is for EVERYONE, regardless of size. We design bold, performance-driven apparel that celebrates your curves, supports your every stride, and lets you unleash your inner athlete. No more hiding, no more settling - join the movement and run your way, on your terms.
Tangent Tees was founded to connect people and communities through intentional inclusion. We offer plus-size athletic apparel so that everyone can feel that same sense of community and involvement with small group activities.
Community and people. We all belong.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
-The WHY behind Martha’s mission for starting Tangent Tees.
-Both Martha and Rachel hated running when they first started!
-Martha’s crazy history with running - a testament to how amazing the running community truly is.
Apple Podcasts
🇬🇧 Great Britain - fashionAndBeauty
20/08/2026
#75
🇬🇧 Great Britain - fashionAndBeauty
19/08/2026
#52
🇺🇸 USA - fashionAndBeauty
29/07/2026
#95
🇺🇸 USA - fashionAndBeauty
26/07/2026
#87
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
-Tips on how to build trust within your team!
About Prashanth:
Prashanth is a creative and driven consultant with a passion for finding unique solutions to complex problems. He’s an experienced leader that drives progress - from food manufacturing to sports product development, to ecommerce customization. He has a proven track record of absorbing complexity and discovering new opportunities for his teams. With a background in engineering and innovation, Prashanth is excited to dive into technical conversations while ensuring that all learnings and outcomes are clearly communicable to a broader audience. Originally from Ohio (go Bucks!), Prashanth landed in Portland, Oregon after a few years of living abroad, and spends his free time enjoying the amazing food, beer, and nature that the Pacific Northwest has to offer with his partner, Rachel, and his dog, Remy.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
-Get comfortable with things going wrong as an entrepreneur.
-What it’s really like to manufacture your apparel locally, as opposed to overseas.
-The story behind the innovative Preloved collection within MLM.
-The reality of the costs of returns that most people don’t think about.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
-What helped Martha win her pitch competitions?
-How to appropriately build the foundation for your business.
We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode!
To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn.
Like, comment & subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@unmarkedstreet
Learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/
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