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  • Writer's pictureCreative Return

CLOTHES AND COMMUNITY: GROWING A GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED BRAND W. DUSTIN PAISLEY EP. 140




What does it take for a t-shirt company to become a brand that is recognized on a global scale? If you are having trouble finding the key to rising above your competitors, here are some insights from a success story that will broaden your perspective.


Dustin Paisley is the co-founder of the Calgary-based apparel brand Local Laundry and he's here to tell us how he turned it into something more than just clothing.

Local Laundry is a company that builds community. They have raised over $175,000 for local charities. They're also always looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact.


“The company was started off of a Google search, which was ‘how to start a t-shirt company?’” — Dustin Paisley [0:06:20]

Dustin dives into the highs and lows of growing the business from a t-shirt company to where it is today – a globally recognized brand. The brand now offers a variety of ethically-made products including tees, socks, and hats.


You'll hear the story of a small business rising to success and how Local Laundry survived the pandemic by adjusting its offer. Dustin also shares how he navigates day-to-day operations with his team.


“It’s important for us to showcase that just because you are a small business does not mean you can’t have an impact.” — Dustin Paisley [0:21:43]

We learn about weekly cash flow and how Dustin applies the knowledge he gained from working in the banking sector to business ownership.

We're excited to be sharing a Calgary success story that is brimming with real-life insights and practical advice to enhance your financial or entrepreneurial journey. Thanks for listening!


KEY POINTS FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • Dustin's experience of studying entrepreneurship at Mount Royal University.

  • Why he’s interested in creating positive change in the community through business.

  • Moving from on-demand/no inventory to having to stock some inventory.

  • The bootstrapping process behind funding the company.

  • How the YYC design kick-started Local Laundry’s rise to success.

  • Surviving 2020 and the difficult decisions it elicited.

  • Shifting from a retail-only business to dressing Shaw Mobile employees across the country.

  • What it has meant to build a community in Calgary.

  • Why Calgary scores high on connectedness despite not being a tech hub.

  • Choosing to remove all the latest tools to run everything via spreadsheets.

  • Two fundamental recommendations for anyone looking to start a business.

  • The value of contacting your bank before they contact you.

  • The malleable nature of entrepreneurship.

  • The value of validating your assumptions.

  • Navigating imposter syndrome.



LINKS MENTIONED IN TODAY'S EPISODE:

Dustin Paisley on LinkedIn

Dustin Paisley on Instagram

Dustin Paisley on Twitter

Local Laundry

Local Laundry on Instagram

Local Laundry on Facebook

Shoe Dog

Corporate Turnaround Artistry

Traction

Who Not How

Goal

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth

Mount Royal University

Insider’s Guide to Finance

Insider’s Guide to Finance on LinkedIn

Cory Cleveland on LinkedIn

Please note that the information contained in this interview is not financial advice but for entertainment purposes. I am not a financial advisor and make no warranties or representations concerning the accuracy or suitability of the information contained in this interview. I recommend that any and all investment decisions be made with the advice of accredited investment advisors.


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