Guest:

🧍‍♂️ Steven White — Co-Founder & Creative Director, [Different Regard](https://differentregard.com)

📍 Location: Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland

Highlights:

* Steven’s journey from finance to fashion — and how narcolepsy changed his path

* Founding story of Different Regard (2010–2011) and building an in-house factory by 2013

* Transition from T-shirts to fully tailored suits and small-batch production

* The philosophy behind custom consultations and valuing craftsmanship

* Baltimore’s role as a creative hub and why Steven chooses to stay and build there

* Mentorship and youth education initiatives teaching pattern-making, sewing, and design

* Global yet local sourcing — from Baltimore to the UK and back

* Creating standout custom pieces for clients like Real Housewives of Potomac’s Robin Dixon

* How Different Regard balances high-end design with community values and sustainability

* Kristan’s personal connection: Steven designed her suit for her national pageant

Key Quotes:

> “I want to show young people that you don’t have to sew to be in this space — there are so many ways to build a career in fashion.”

> “We don’t just make clothes; we make people feel different, confident, and connected to the process.”

> “Baltimore is where my story began — and it’s where I want to give back."

Connect:

🎧 Listen to more episodes: makersoftheusa.com

📸 Follow @makersoftheusa and @differentregard on Instagram

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