The Business of Apparel

The Business of Apparel

Rachel Erickson
Maa Yhdysvallat
Kieli EN
Jaksot 172
Viimeisin 10.09.2026

The Business of Apparel is a podcast hosted by Rachel Erickson, who shares her 20 years of expertise in the apparel manufacturing industry. The show helps apparel founders move from costly trial-and-error to scaling profitably with expert guidance, systems, and industry knowledge. Each week, Rachel and industry experts cover topics like profit-first scaling, production excellence, operational systems, and strategic guidance. The podcast aims to provide proven frameworks for building and growing an apparel brand without BS.

Jaksot

  • The 4 Things That Instantly Prove You're an Amateur to Factories 10.09.2026 14min
    Getting a response from the manufacturer you want to work with can feel like a challenge, especially when you're building an apparel brand and still learning how the industry works. But sometimes, the way you approach a factory can be the very thing keeping you from getting a response. In this episode, I'm breaking down four things that can make you look like a beginner to manufacturers and suppliers, and what you should understand before you reach out. I'm sharing the questions you should be asking, the information you need to have prepared, and the tools that can help you build credibility and create stronger manufacturing partnerships. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why asking a manufacturer for their "best price" can be a major red flag What MOQ means and why it's so important to your budget and cash flow Why understanding lead times and a factory's production calendar is essential Why having a professional tech pack can completely change your conversations with manufacturers What information should be included in a tech pack, including garment measurements, construction details, and a bill of materials How asking the right questions can help you build stronger relationships with manufacturing partners The more you understand about how apparel production actually works, the more confidently you can approach the manufacturers and suppliers you want to work with. I hope this episode helps you feel more prepared, professional, and equipped to have better conversations as you build your apparel brand. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Learn about our product development services: http://unmarkedstreet.com/contact Say Good-Bye to $20,000 Apparel Brand Mistakes here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/goodbye Pre-order my book, The Business of Apparel, here! Pre-order the e-book version here! ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • The Advice You Didn't Know You Needed (Office Hours Unlocked) 03.09.2026 39min
    One of my favorite things about running a membership is that I have the opportunity to give apparel brand founders direct access to experienced industry professionals who can help them navigate the challenges of launching, growing, and scaling a business. In this episode, I'm giving you an inside look at what happens during an Apparel Founders Board office hours meeting. I'm sharing a real preview of the conversations, questions, and resources that help our members make smarter decisions and navigate the many challenges that come with building and growing an apparel brand. 📝 Today We're Covering: What it's actually like inside an Apparel Founders Board office hours meeting The resources, templates, and curriculum I provide to Board members How I recommend apparel brands respond to rising shipping costs and changing market conditions What founders should consider when navigating ethics and sustainability in the apparel industry How to audit your time and identify the right roles to delegate or hire How I think about ROI and budget when hiring your first team members As an apparel brand founder, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. I hope this insider's look at the kind of practical questions, resources, and strategic advice available in the Board encourages you to join us! ➡️ Your Next Steps: Join The Board: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Pre-order my book, The Business of Apparel, here! Pre-order the e-book version here! Subscribe to the Apparel Founder's Boardroom Notes on Substack: substack.com/@businessofapparel ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • Don't Read My New Book, "The Business of Apparel," Until You Do THIS 27.08.2026 19min
    Starting an apparel brand is a big investment, and taking the time to validate your idea before jumping into product development can save you time, money, and frustration down the road. As the launch of my book The Business of Apparel is right around the corner, I want to be sure you have a solid foundation for your brand before reading about how to start your business. I'm walking through the essential research I recommend doing before launching an apparel brand. I explain why researching your idea, understanding your potential customers, and creating a business plan can help you enter the apparel industry with a stronger foundation and a clearer path forward. 📝 Today We're Covering: How to vet an apparel product idea before investing in development What questions to include in customer surveys to guide product development How competitor research can help you understand pricing, products, and opportunities Why every apparel founder should consider creating a business plan How a SWOT analysis can help you identify your brand's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats Why thinking like a CEO from the beginning can set your apparel business up for long-term success If you're still developing your brand idea, or if you're looking forward to reading my new book The Business of Apparel, you need to know these practical steps in order to validate your concept, understand your customers, and build your brand with a stronger business foundation. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Pre-order my book, The Business of Apparel, here! Pre-order the e-book version here! Browse our resources: thebusinessofapparel.com/shop Join The Board: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • If You Aren't Prepping BFCM Now, Your Q4 is in Trouble 20.08.2026 19min
    Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be some of the most profitable days of the year for your apparel brand, but success doesn't happen by accident. The brands that see the biggest results are the ones that start planning months in advance with a clear marketing strategy. I will walk you through how to create a successful Black Friday Cyber Monday strategy that attracts new customers, increases repeat purchases, and protects your profit margins. I'll share how to plan your product launches, discounts, marketing campaigns, customer service, and post-purchase follow-up while using key performance metrics to measure your success and improve future promotions. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why Black Friday and Cyber Monday planning should begin months in advance How to create a profitable BFCM marketing and promotional strategy The key metrics every apparel founder should track before, during, and after the sales weekend How to balance discounts with healthy profit margins and inventory goals Why customer retention, community building, and post-purchase nurturing are essential for long-term growth Whether you're preparing for your first Black Friday Cyber Monday promotion or looking to improve the results of future sales events, you'll gain practical strategies to help you plan with confidence, maximize revenue, and turn seasonal shoppers into loyal customers. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Say Good-Bye to $20,000 Apparel Brand Mistakes here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/goodbye Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Learn how we can help your business grow further: www.unmarkedstreet.com ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • The Fashion Industry is Purposely Hiding This From New Founders 13.08.2026 15min
    Building an apparel brand can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you're competing against industry giants with resources, data, and strategies you don't have access to. While many founders assume they're simply missing a piece of the puzzle, the reality is that the apparel industry is far more competitive than most entrepreneurs realize, and understanding how it really works can change everything. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on an eye-opening experience from my corporate career that completely changed the way I view the apparel industry. I share what happened during a leadership meeting at one of the world's biggest apparel companies, why emerging brands were seen as a threat despite holding only a tiny fraction of the market, and how that experience inspired me to dedicate my career to helping independent apparel founders succeed with the insider knowledge they've never been given. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why even the biggest apparel brands pay close attention to emerging competitors What I learned inside a corporate strategy meeting focused on protecting market share Why so much of the advice available to apparel founders feels incomplete or unhelpful How understanding the industry's hidden dynamics can help you make smarter business decisions Why having experienced advisors and proven operational strategies gives small brands a competitive advantage Success in the apparel industry starts with understanding the realities behind the scenes. This episode will give you a new perspective on the challenges you're facing and remind you that success isn't about working harder. It's about understanding how the industry really operates and having the right guidance to navigate it. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Say Good-Bye to $20,000 Apparel Brand Mistakes here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/goodbye Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.  
  • 3 Female Founders Tell All: The Truth About Scaling Your Own Agency 06.08.2026 47min
    Leaving the security of a steady paycheck to build your own apparel business is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make. The uncertainty of replacing your income, finding clients, and giving up traditional benefits can feel overwhelming, but the freedom, flexibility, and opportunity to build a business on your own terms can make it one of the most rewarding decisions you'll ever make. In this episode, I sit down with two former colleagues and friends, Sarah White and Kayla Clarot, to talk about our journeys from the corporate apparel world into running our own businesses. We share the lessons we learned working in a high-pressure environment, how those experiences shaped our leadership styles, and why creating businesses rooted in collaboration, flexibility, and kindness has become our mission. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why leaving a corporate career can be the catalyst for building a business that fits your life and values How high-pressure work environments can develop leadership skills that translate into entrepreneurship Why collaboration works better than competition to create a strong business How to lead with honesty, kindness, and clear communication while building a healthy team culture Why balancing ambition with your physical and mental well-being leads to more sustainable success Whether you're wondering if it's time to pursue your own apparel business or you're looking for encouragement as you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, this conversation will remind you that your past experiences can become your greatest advantage in building a company on your own terms. ➡️ Connect with Sarah and Kayla: Sarah: https://www.theoutdoormerchant.com/ Kayla: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-clarot-58351b97/ ➡️ Connect with Rachel: Subscribe to the Apparel Founder's Boardroom Notes on Substack: https://substack.com/@businessofapparel Get in touch here: http://thebusinessofapparel.com/contact Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ 🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.
  • You're a Designer, Not a CEO (And It's Costing You) 30.07.2026 21min
    Stepping into the role of CEO requires more than designing great products. It means shifting your mindset from working in your apparel brand to leading and growing it. Learning to delegate, trust your team, and focus on the bigger picture is what creates the foundation for long-term success. As I work to better understand the financial data behind my own business, build stronger leadership skills, and expand my team, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to transition from product designer to business owner. I explain why hiring before you feel ready, investing in expert guidance, and creating systems that empower your team can help you break through the growth ceiling that many apparel founders face. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why thinking of yourself as a product designer instead of a CEO can hold your business back How hiring and delegating create more opportunities for growth and profitability Why learning your business numbers is essential, even if finance isn't your strength How to build a leadership team that can grow alongside your apparel brand Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, when scaling your company If you're still trying to wear multiple hats in your business, this episode will help you shift your mindset, embrace your role as CEO, and create a business that can grow beyond what you could accomplish on your own. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Subscribe to the Apparel Founder's Boardroom Notes on Substack: https://substack.com/@businessofapparel Get in touch with me here: http://thebusinessofapparel.com/contact Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao 🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • Why "Selling Out" Could Actually Bankrupt Your Brand 23.07.2026 19min
    Bringing investors into your apparel brand might seem like the fastest path to growth, but the wrong investment, or the wrong strategy, can put everything you've built at risk. In this episode we're breaking down why many apparel founders make costly mistakes after raising capital and explain how to use investment dollars strategically to build a stronger, more profitable business. We discuss why investing in education, hiring the right team, and testing products before scaling leads to better long-term results, while also exploring the dangers of chasing rapid growth and partnering with investors whose values don't align with your brand. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why raising investment capital isn't always the right move for apparel brands The smartest ways to invest funding to support sustainable growth Why buying more inventory too soon can hurt your business How to use product testing before scaling your apparel line The risks of partnering with investors who don't share your brand values Whether you're considering outside investment or simply planning your next stage of growth, this episode offers practical guidance to help you make smarter financial decisions to protect your brand and build a business that lasts. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Subscribe to the Apparel Founder's Boardroom Notes on Substack: https://substack.com/@businessofapparel Get in touch with me here: http://thebusinessofapparel.com/contact Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao 🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • Why Most Apparel Brands Don't Have a Revenue Problem 16.07.2026 21min
    Many apparel founders believe growing revenue is the key to building a successful brand, but revenue alone won't keep your business alive. Without healthy profit margins, even brands generating millions of dollars in sales can struggle with cash flow, inventory purchases, hiring, and long-term growth. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel explains why profitability, not revenue, is the most important metric every apparel founder should be tracking. She shares real examples of brands that looked successful on paper but ultimately failed because they ignored their margins, along with practical guidance for calculating profitability, understanding company-wide weighted margins, and making smarter inventory and pricing decisions. Rachel also discusses how experienced mentorship and the right financial systems can help founders avoid expensive mistakes and build brands that are positioned for sustainable, long-term success. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why focusing on revenue instead of profit can put your apparel brand at serious financial risk How to calculate and evaluate product and company-wide profit margins The warning signs that your inventory and purchasing decisions are hurting profitability Real examples of brands that succeeded or failed based on the financial decisions they made Why expert guidance and better financial systems can help you avoid costly mistakes and scale with confidence   Whether you're just getting your business off the ground or you've been at it a while, this episode provides practical strategies for understanding the numbers behind your brand. You'll walk away with actionable steps to help you improve your margins, strengthen your decision-making, and create a business that's built for long-term growth rather than just impressive revenue.   ➡️ Your Next Steps: Get the initial line planning template: http://thebusinessofapparel.com/gift Check out our resources here: http://thebusinessofapparel.com/shop Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join   ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • A Big Announcement for the Business of Apparel Community 10.07.2026 4min
    For years, we've been searching for a better way to help Apparel Ffounders bridge the gap between learning industry concepts and actually applying them inside their businesses.   That's exactly why we're launching Boardroom Notes, a brand-new weekly Substack newsletter designed to help founders take the lessons from the Business of Apparel podcast and turn them into practical action.   In addition to Boardroom Notes, you can also subscribe to In the Margins with Rachel Erickson, a behind-the-scenes newsletter documenting the journey of writing and releasing my first book, The Business of Apparel. Whether you're trying to improve your margins, make smarter business decisions, or get an inside look at the ideas shaping my upcoming book, you'll want to join us over on Substack at https://businessofapparel.substack.com   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   Learn more at https://www.unmarkedstreet.com/
  • Why "Learning As You Go" Will Bankrupt You in the Fashion Industry 09.07.2026 27min
    When apparel founders fail to create a profitable business, it's not because they lack talent or great product ideas. They struggle because they're forced to navigate a highly technical industry through expensive trial and error, often making costly mistakes that could have been avoided with the right guidance. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel shares the common challenges she's seeing apparel founders face and explains why learning the industry as you go can put your business at risk. Through real client stories, she breaks down how poor product development processes, weak financial planning, inaccurate pricing, and unclear production documentation can quickly lead to cash flow problems, wasted inventory, and even business closure. Rachel also explains why building strong operational systems early, tracking profitability instead of just revenue, and seeking expert support can dramatically reduce risk and help founders build profitable, sustainable brands. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why trial-and-error can become one of the most expensive ways to build an apparel brand Common product development mistakes that lead to costly production errors How tracking margins, not just revenue, is essential for long-term profitability Real examples of apparel founders who saved (or lost) tens of thousands of dollars based on key business decisions Why investing in the right systems and expert guidance can help prevent cash flow issues and accelerate growth   For apparel founders who are trying to build a profitable business without making costly mistakes, this episode offers practical lessons from real-world experiences. Rachel provides actionable insights to help entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, protect their cash flow, and make smarter decisions that position their brands for long-term success.   ➡️ Your Next Steps: Ask your questions: [email protected] Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Sign up for the Business of Apparel Goodbye Masterclass:https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/goodbye   ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • How Jason Daniel Turned LSKD Into a Movement, Not Just a Clothing Brand 02.07.2026 33min
    Building a successful apparel brand takes more than creating great products. The strongest brands are built around a clear purpose, a committed community, and a culture that inspires people to keep growing. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel sits down with Jason Daniel, founder of globally recognized activewear brand LSKD, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey from selling T-shirts at motocross events to leading a company with hundreds of employees and a worldwide customer base. Jason shares the story behind LSKD's "1% Better Every Day" philosophy, how discovering a deeper purpose transformed the trajectory of his business, and why community, culture, and continuous improvement have become the foundation of the brand's success. He also offers practical advice for founders looking to define their values, build stronger teams, and create brands that stand for something bigger than the products they sell. 📝 Today We're Covering: The origin of LSKD and how Jason turned a passion project into a global apparel brand Why finding a meaningful purpose is essential for long-term business success How strong company values help attract, retain, and develop great team members Why continuous learning, personal growth, and mentorship are critical for founders Practical steps apparel entrepreneurs can take to define their mission and build a values-driven brand   For apparel founders navigating the challenges of growth and team building, this episode provides a powerful reminder that long-term success comes from a business rooted in purpose and community. Jason's story offers both inspiration and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs who want to build a brand that resonates deeply with customers, attracts exceptional team members, and creates lasting impact for years to come.   ➡️ Connect with Jason and LSKD: Learn more about LSKD: http://lskd.co Find your next read in the LSKD library: https://www.lskd.co/pages/lskd-library Connect on IG @lskd and @jasondaniel__   ➡️ Connect with Rachel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ Website: http://www.unmarkedstreet.com/   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.
  • The Exact Blueprint to Stop Being the Bottleneck in Your Apparel Business 25.06.2026 20min
    If you're feeling exhausted as the CEO of your apparel brand, it doesn't necessarily mean you're working too hard. It may be a sign that you've become the bottleneck preventing your company from growing. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel shares why every founder eventually reaches a point where they need to stop doing everything themselves and start building a team that supports long-term growth. Drawing from her own entrepreneurial journey, she explains the importance of hiring before you feel desperate, delegating strategically, and creating systems that allow your business, and your people, to thrive. She also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the concepts covered in the Scalable Team Blueprint masterclass and discusses how leadership, mentorship, and organizational planning all work together to build a stronger company. 📝 Today We're Covering: Why founder burnout is often caused by becoming the bottleneck in your business Why hiring before you think you need to can accelerate business growth How delegation creates space for CEOs to focus on higher-level strategy and vision How to create career growth opportunities that help employees stay engaged and loyal Why building your dream organizational chart is essential for scaling an apparel brand   As you think through your vision for the future of your company, creating the right delegation flow is essential for success. This episode offers practical insights to help you step out of the day-to-day, lead with intention, and create a business that supports both your goals and the people who help bring your vision to life.   ➡️ Your Next Steps: Join the Scalable Team Blueprint masterclass: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/team Learn about The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Sign up for the weekly newsletter here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/contact Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course   ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • How to Make Firing an Employee 100x Less Painful 18.06.2026 16min
    Managing employees well starts long before difficult conversations ever happen. In fact, the systems you put in place from day one can determine whether your team grows together or struggles with disengagement and poor performance. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel explains why great leadership and effective employee management go hand in hand with preparing for the possibility of letting someone go. She shares how to set clear expectations and implement performance improvement plans that protect both your team culture and your business. Rachel also discusses how underperforming employees can impact morale and why retaining A-players sometimes requires making tough decisions. 📝 Today We're Covering: How to set employee expectations from day one Why KPIs and goal setting are essential for growing an apparel brand The benefits of quarterly performance reviews over annual reviews How to create and manage an effective Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) How to recognize disengagement and "rust out" inside your company   Whether you're hiring your first employee or managing a growing team, this episode provides practical leadership strategies to help you build a stronger culture, support employee development, and make difficult personnel decisions with confidence and empathy.   ➡️ Your Next Steps: Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Sign up for the weekly newsletter here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/contact Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course   ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao   🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • The Job Description Template That Attracts A-Players (Not Duds) 11.06.2026 18min
    Hiring the right team members can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when the candidates you're attracting aren't who you hoped for. In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel explains why attracting poor job candidates is often the result of a weak or generic job description rather than a lack of talent in the market. She shares how apparel brand owners can attract A-player employees by focusing less on qualifications and more on the outcomes, goals, and opportunities a role provides.  📝 Today We're Covering: Why being transparent about challenges actually attracts more ambitious professionals How to create clear 30-, 90-, and 365-day success plans The key elements of a compelling job description How to evaluate candidates and onboard them effectively with KPI-driven plans Details about my upcoming team-building workshop to learn more about hiring and employee management Listen in to discover how the right hiring process can transform the quality of candidates you attract and the future of your brand. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Register for my upcoming 3-day Scalable Team Blueprint workshop: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/team Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course  ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao  🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • A Simple Guide to Landed Cost: Calculating the Real Price of Your Products 04.06.2026 17min
    If you're not accurately calculating your landed costs, your apparel brand could be losing money without you even realizing it.  In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel explains exactly what landed cost means and how to calculate it for apparel products in a simple, practical way. She shares why understanding the true cost of producing and importing your garments is essential for protecting your margins and building a profitable business. 📝 Today We're Covering: What landed cost means in the apparel industry The difference between CMT, FOB, and DDP factory pricing How to calculate garment costs, shipping fees, tariffs, and duty rates How unexpected customs bills can hurt cash flow and profitability Why understanding your margins helps you build a more sustainable business Whether you are producing your first collection or scaling an established apparel brand, this episode will help you better understand your true production costs so you can price confidently, protect your profits, and avoid costly surprises. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Get your Free Initial Line Planning Template here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/gift Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao 🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-erickson-pmp/ and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • What Retail Buyers Actually Want: 3 Things You Need Before Pitching a Store 28.05.2026 19min
    Retail stores can be a powerful partner in increasing brand visibility and building customer trust, but there needs to be a strategy behind the way brand founders pitch their apparel.   In this episode of the Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel breaks down the three essential tools every apparel brand needs to successfully land wholesale accounts with boutiques, specialty shops, and retailers. She explains how to prepare for wholesale sales meetings with detailed pricing sheets, curated lookbooks and assortments, and clear payment terms that make it easier for buyers to say yes.   📝 Today We're Covering: How to land wholesale deals for your apparel brand The three essential tools every fashion founder needs for wholesale buyer meetings How to price your clothing line profitably for wholesale and direct-to-consumer sales Why boutiques and specialty retailers can help grow your brand visibility faster How to create wholesale collections and assortments that retailers actually want to buy Whether you're brand new to wholesale or trying to improve your current approach, this episode offers practical guidance to help you present your brand professionally and build long-term retail partnerships. ➡️ Your Next Steps: Say Good-Bye to $20,000 Apparel Brand Mistakes here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/goodbye Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/join Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ‼️ Don't Miss These Episodes: Wholesale 101 Use AI in Your Apparel Brand Grow a 7-Figure Apparel Business 🤝 Meet Rachel: Rachel Erickson is a Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, she sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, she learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   Rachel helps founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, Rachel will join you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn and visit her website at www.unmarkedstreet.com.
  • Escaping the Hustle Trap & Curing Imposter Syndrome with Brian Finnerty 21.05.2026 32min
    Welcome back to the Business of Apparel podcast, your one-stop shop to learn how to launch, grow, and scale your apparel brand! I'm your host, Rachel Erickson. In today's episode, I am thrilled to welcome Brian Finnerty, an experienced entrepreneur and investor behind Galway Bay Golf. We start by taking the popular entrepreneurial advice of "fake it until you make it," throwing it in the garbage, and setting it ablaze! Brian shares why taking the time to honestly build your business eliminates imposter syndrome and empowers you to speak purely from experience. We also dive deep into the strategic side of building a lasting brand. Brian shares the hard-learned lessons from scaling Galway Bay, including why thinking you are your only customer is an apparel founder's biggest "Kryptonite." We also discuss why the best brands don't just create individual "sizzle" pieces, but instead design cohesive, layered systems where every detail is considered. In this episode, you'll learn: The "fake it till you make it" lie and how to cure imposter syndrome. The Founder's Kryptonite: Why you need to realize you are a sample size of one. Why fast social media clicks don't equal lifetime value (LTV). The power of a "Hero Product" and why keeping styles for years builds ultimate customer loyalty. How Galway Bay launched their women's line with a safe 250-piece test drop. 🔗 Links & Resources: Connect with Brian: Find Brian Finnerty on LinkedIn, via email at [email protected], or listen to his podcast, What's Next!. Join The Board: Stop second-guessing yourself. Get honest, real-talk mentorship from a team with over 70 years of combined industry experience. Go to thebusinessofapparel.com to find the right option for you. Connect with Rachel: Send a message, sign up for the weekly newsletter, and access trainings and blog articles at thebusinessofapparel.com . If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast player! It helps us continue to bring you the best insights to make a better product for a better world.
  • 6 Key Roles Every Apparel Brand Founder Needs to Scale 14.05.2026 26min
    6 Key Roles Every Apparel Brand Founder Needs to Scale Most apparel founders wait too long to build the right team and it costs them growth, profitability, and burnout. In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down the 6 key roles every apparel brand should understand before scaling. From product managers and technical designers to production managers and project managers, Rachel explains exactly what each role does, when to hire them, and how to know what should come off your plate first. If you're building a clothing brand, clothing line, activewear company, or product-based business, this episode gives you a real-life perspective for structuring your dream team and growing without losing your mind. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com Key Moments: 00:00 Hiring for 6 Key Roles 01:36 When to Delegate 02:50 Role #1 05:06 Join Our Free Masterclass! 06:18 Product Manager Deep Dive 09:23 Role #2 11:16 Role #3 13:18 Role #4 16:56 Role #5 17:33 Join The Board! 18:53 Production Manager Details 20:42 Role #6 23:16 Bonus Role   Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading. To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   
  • How Boutique Owners Create Their Own Clothing Line (Without Costly Mistakes) with Natalie Hamilton 07.05.2026 33min
    How Boutique Owners Create Their Own Clothing Line (Without Costly Mistakes) with Natalie Hamilton If you're a boutique owner thinking about launching your own clothing line, this episode breaks down what it really takes...costs, strategy, mistakes to avoid, and how to actually succeed. In this episode, Rachel sits down with boutique owner Natalie Hamilton, who shares her 10-year journey building a successful retail business, and why she's now stepping into apparel manufacturing with her new brand, Anna & Atticus. From sourcing at MAGIC Las Vegas to navigating minimum order quantities, tech packs, and production costs, this is a behind-the-scenes look at the leap from boutique to brand. If you've ever thought, "I should create my own line," this conversation will either validate your next move or save you thousands in mistakes. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com Chapters: 00:00 Starting an Apparel Brand? 00:21 Meet Natalie Hamilton 03:09 Wholesale Buying at Market 05:29 Why Start an Apparel Brand? 09:12 Finding the Right Training 15:19 Costly Industry Surprises 19:12 Building Real Community 21:03 New Strategy: Start Small 23:16 Managing MOQ Risk 24:21 Naming and Trademarks 27:12 Launch Timeline Planning 28:02 The True Cost of Development 29:33 Bespoke vs Streetwear 31:47 Where to Find Graced CONNECT WITH NATALIE: Website: https://gracedshop.com/ Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   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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