In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, host Jed Blackwell discusses the intricacies of direct print and embroidery with Meredith Pyatte and Lindsey Oliver. They share their experiences transitioning to in-house production, the challenges of learning new skills, and the importance of customer service in their business. The conversation highlights the adaptability required in retail and the creative processes involved in design and production. Takeaways

• The transition to in-house embroidery has been a significant learning process.
• Attention to detail is crucial in embroidery and direct print.
• Customer service is a key differentiator in their business model.
• In-house production allows for quicker turnaround times for customers.
• Learning new skills can be both fun and stressful.
• Designing for direct print requires careful consideration of placement and size.
• Flexibility and adaptability are essential in the retail environment.
• Team dynamics play a vital role in executing new ideas and projects.
• Creativity is important, but execution can be challenging.
• The variety of tasks keeps the work engaging and dynamic.

In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, join Kevin Harrison, Jed Blackwell, and Bonnie Blackwell as they discuss the rise of Brunt, a workwear brand that has gained popularity for its innovative boot designs and effective social media marketing. They explore the brand's origins, customer experiences, and unique product features, emphasizing the positive feedback from users and the brand's commitment to quality. The conversation highlights the significance of Brunt in the workwear market and its potential for future growth. Takeaways

• Brunt was born in a garage and has a unique company culture.
• The brand has effectively utilized social media for marketing.
• Customer feedback on Brunt products has been overwhelmingly positive.
• Brunt boots are designed specifically for trade workers.
• The innovative design allows for a single width that can be adjusted.
• The quality of materials used in Brunt boots is high.
• The brand's growth trajectory is impressive since its launch in 2020.
• Retailers benefit from Brunt's unique sizing approach.
• The hosts plan to bring Brunt clothing into their stores soon.
• The partnership with Brunt is seen as mutually beneficial for both parties.

Join Jed Blackwell, Kate Harrison, and Dustin Pyatte this week in highlighting Harrison's commitment to exceptional customer service, its innovative approach to account sales, and the unique perspectives of its team, including:

• The shift in customer service standards, with Work Western aiming to provide a level of personalized attention that is increasingly rare in the retail landscape.
• The evolution of the account sales role, with Kate Harrison's position bridging the gap between public safety and work wear accounts.
• The company-wide initiative to cross-train employees, empowering them to contribute to the account sales process and deliver a consistent customer experience.

Christina Eagle's story is one of perseverance, faith, and a deep passion for music that has the potential to inspire and uplift others. Her journey from a small-town girl to a contestant on a national TV singing competition, and her current pursuit of her own musical aspirations, offer a compelling narrative that could resonate with a wide audience. By highlighting her unique experiences, insights, and artistic vision, a feature article on Christina Eagle could provide readers with an uplifting and insightful look into the life of a rising talent on the cusp of a breakthrough.

• Christina Eagle's lifelong passion for singing, dating back to her childhood church performances
• Her journey to appearing on "The Voice," including initial disappointment at 15 and perseverance to try again years later
• The challenges and growth experienced during the month-long preparation period in Los Angeles before the blind audition
• The intense emotions and adrenaline rush of the blind audition, culminating in Snoop Dogg turning his chair at the last moment
• The post-show experience, including limited interaction with the other coaches but valuable support from Snoop Dogg's team
• Christina's current focus on writing and releasing her own music, particularly a meaningful song honoring first responders
• The sense of being on the "precipice" of a breakthrough, with Christina feeling ready to take the next step in her music career
• Christina's openness about her past struggles with anxiety and her desire to use her platform to share the hope and love she has found in her faith
• The challenges of navigating the Christian music industry versus the broader mainstream market, and the potential to reach a wider audience with meaningful, high-quality music
• The behind-the-scenes insights into the production and emotional experience of a major TV singing competition like "The Voice"

In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell are joined by South Carolina Regional Account Manager Jess Blackwell to discuss the multifaceted role of account managers in public safety, emphasizing the importance of body armor, uniforms, and tailored services. They highlight the significance of building relationships with clients and the convenience of web stores in enhancing customer experience.

Takeaways

Account managers play a crucial role in managing contracts and uniforms for public safety departments.

Body armor is essential for the safety of public safety personnel.

Alterations and embroidery services are vital for ensuring uniforms fit well and meet specific needs.

Web stores offer convenience for clients who may not have time to visit physical stores.

Building relationships with clients fosters trust and enhances service quality.

Effective communication is key to keeping clients informed about their orders.

The importance of looking good in uniforms is emphasized for morale and confidence.

Account managers are dedicated to making the lives of public safety personnel easier.

Customer service is a core value, aiming to turn customers into fans.

In this episode of the Work Western podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell are joined by Harrison's Mauldin manager Bonnie Blackwell to discuss the resurgence of Corral and Circle G boots, highlighting their unique designs, fashion-forward styles, and the use of exotic materials. They explore the target markets for these brands, emphasizing the differences in preferences between male and female customers. The conversation also touches on pricing strategies and the craftsmanship behind the boots, concluding with insights into future trends in Western fashion.

Takeaways

Corral and Circle G are making a strong comeback in the market.

Their designs are recognized for being fashion-forward and unique.

The use of in-house exotic materials sets them apart from competitors.

Pricing strategies are competitive, especially in the exotic boot market.

The target market for Corral is predominantly female, while Circle G caters to both genders.

Customer preferences lean towards flashy and stylish designs for women.

Handmade craftsmanship contributes to the uniqueness of each boot.

The brands maintain quality while keeping prices lower than competitors.

Future trends in Western fashion are leaning towards more vibrant and unique styles.

The podcast will feature insights from representatives of Corral and Circle G in future episodes.

In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell explore the evolution of Western fashion and its integration into the retail market. They discuss the changing consumer preferences, the intersection of workwear and Western lifestyle, and the impact of cultural icons on fashion trends. The conversation highlights the importance of staying ahead of trends and the future of Western fashion in a rapidly evolving market. Takeaways

• The Work Western Podcast aims to provide resources for the Western lifestyle.
• The store has evolved from workwear to a broader Western lifestyle focus.
• Fashion trends in Western wear often cycle back, reflecting past styles.
• Consumer preferences in Western fashion are shifting towards more diverse offerings.
• The Western fashion market is dynamic, with trends that can quickly change.
• The store caters to both work and casual Western fashion needs.
• There is a growing interest in Western fashion among non-traditional consumers.
• Cultural influences, such as celebrities, significantly impact Western fashion trends.
• The hosts emphasize the importance of forecasting trends in retail.
• The future of Western fashion looks promising with ongoing interest and demand.

The Work Western Podcast's exploration of the Tecovas boot brand highlights the company's unique approach to blending fashion and function, as well as its commitment to maintaining high standards and providing a premium in-store experience. With the expansion into the work boot market, Tecovas is positioning itself as a versatile and affordable option for a wide range of customers seeking high-quality, durable, and stylish footwear.

Tecovas: A Unique and Fashionable Boot Brand

• Tecovas is a new-to-Harrison's boot brand that our retail chain has recently started carrying.
• Tecovas is known for its fashion-forward designs, blending traditional cowboy boot styles with modern elements.
• The brand is selective in its retail partnerships, choosing to work with unique and specialized retailers rather than large national chains.
• Tecovas takes pride in maintaining a high brand standard, providing retailers with extensive support and fixtures to create a premium in-store experience.

Tecovas Expands into the Work Boot Market

• In addition to their fashionable cowboy boots, Tecovas has recently launched a line of work boots that meet OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
• The work boots are durable, waterproof, and comfortable, with a similar level of quality and craftsmanship as the brand's fashion-focused offerings.
• The work boot line has been well-received by customers, with strong sales and positive feedback.

Unique Boot Styles and Comfort

• Kevin and Jed highlight several popular Tecovas boot styles, including the Dusty and the Dean, which feature unique design elements like square toes and zippers.
• The comfort and quality of the Tecovas boots are emphasized, with the hosts describing the leather as soft and the boots as feeling like a "bomber jacket for your feet."
• Tecovas' attention to detail and craftsmanship is noted, with the hosts praising the brand's commitment to maintaining high standards.

• Tecovas is positioned as a brand that can meet the needs of both fashion-conscious consumers and those seeking reliable work boots, making it a versatile choice.

Carhartt's t-shirt collection has become a staple in the workwear and outdoor industries, with the brand's iconic K87 setting the standard for durability and toughness. However, the company has expanded its offerings to cater to a wider range of needs, from moisture-wicking performance to more fashion-forward styles. Carhartt's t-shirts continue to be a go-to choice for those seeking high-quality, versatile workwear that can withstand the demands of an active lifestyle. Here's a look at some of the basics the brand offers:

K87 Loose Fit Pocket T-Shirt: Considered the "standard for toughness" in the t-shirt market, the K87 is known for its durability, stain resistance, and roomy fit. However, it can be heavy and boxy, which some see as a drawback.

Force T-Shirt: A middle ground between the K87 and more technical performance wear, the Force line offers moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, while still maintaining a t-shirt-like feel and appearance.

Sun Defender T-Shirt: Designed for outdoor activities, the Sun Defender features a lightweight, polyester-based construction with a UPF 50 rating. While excellent at keeping wearers cool in hot, sweaty conditions, it can feel warmer when not actively being used in the elements.

Relaxed Fit Garment-Dyed Pocket T-Shirt: This more fashion-forward offering from Carhartt has a softer, more weathered appearance, with a relaxed fit that's less boxy than the classic K87.

Carhartt's t-shirt lineup caters to a wide range of needs, from the classic, durable K87 to more specialized, performance-oriented options.

• The brand's t-shirts have become a standard in the workwear and outdoor industries, with other companies often comparing their offerings to Carhartt's iconic K87.
• Consumers are seeking a balance between functionality and fashion, as evidenced by the popularity of the Relaxed Fit Garment-Dyed Pocket T-Shirt.

On today's Work Western Podcast, jKevin and Jed talk with The King of Rodeo in the Carolinas, J.R. Drake. We'll talk about his long history in the rodeo business, hot rods, monster trucks, and a whole lot more.

At 74 years old, J.R. Drake continues to be a driving force in the "Work Western" lifestyle, seamlessly blending his passions for rodeos, hot rods, and more. His entrepreneurial spirit, faith-based values, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him a legend in the Carolinas and beyond. As he looks to the future, Drake's story serves as an inspiring example of how to turn one's diverse interests and talents into a fulfilling and impactful career.

Join us as we discuss:

• J.R. Drake's diverse career spanning rodeos, hot rods, monster trucks, and more
• The origins and evolution of his passion for the "work Western" lifestyle
• The unique family-friendly atmosphere and high-quality production of his rodeo events
• Drake's entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering belief in his ability to succeed in any endeavor
• Drake's unwavering commitment to providing a family-friendly, faith-based atmosphere at his rodeo events, even turning down lucrative beer sponsorships
• His pioneering role in the early days of the monster truck industry, helping to establish some of the most iconic vehicles and events
• The enduring appeal of classic hot rods and the unique stories behind Drake's prized collection

Look for our story on J.R. at www.carolinainourminds.com, coming this week!