What's Really Good - James Mattox

Updated about 1 month ago

Matthew Lipsey talks with James Mattox Jr., founder of Make Your Own Way Studios. James paved his way as a clothing designer by following his childhood dreams and trusting his creativity.

Chapters

Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00:22)
Matthew Lipsey introduces the podcast 'What's Really Good' and welcomes his guest, James Madox Jr., the founder of Maker Own Way Studios.

The host, Mr. Matthew Lipsey, introduces the podcast titled 'What's Really Good' and welcomes his guest, Mr. James Madox Jr. James is the founder of Maker Own Way Studios, and they start the conversation with a friendly exchange of greetings.
James Madox's Journey into Fashion (00:00:49)
James Madox Jr. shares his journey into the fashion industry, starting from a childhood dream to create his own clothing line.

James explains how his interest in fashion began as a kid with a dream to make extra money. He loved fashion and was part of a creative family. His initial goal was to fund another idea, a cartoon, which led him to design clothes. This passion eventually grew into a business.
The Success of Maker Own Way Studios (00:01:29)
James discusses the growth and success of his fashion line, highlighting the challenges and rewards of investing in oneself.

James talks about how his clothing line has taken off and the challenges of the early years where profits were not immediate. He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and continuing to invest in one's ideas. This year has been particularly successful for his business.
The Philosophy Behind Ox, the Character (00:02:52)
James explains the meaning and inspiration behind his character Ox, a symbol of love and perseverance.

James describes Ox as his 'Mickey Mouse,' a character that symbolizes love and perseverance. Ox represents the belief that everyone needs love, characterized by a beat-up heart with one tooth but still smiling. It's a tribute to his family and his late Aunt Sandy K.
Design Process and Partner Collaboration (00:03:46)
James talks about his design process and collaboration with his partner Nick Reynolds to create characters and designs.

James shares how he comes up with his designs, often starting with doodles. He collaborates with his partner Nick Reynolds, who brings his doodles to life with artistry. James emphasizes that while he initiates the ideas, the final art is a collaborative effort.
Michigan Made and Live Shopping (00:04:32)
James discusses his 'Michigan Made' line and his vision for a live shopping experience, embracing modern shopping trends.

James introduces his 'Michigan Made' line as a tribute to his home state. He describes his vision for a live shopping experience, where people can shop directly through a live broadcast, allowing global reach and exclusivity. He plans to use platforms like TikTok and Instagram for this innovative approach.
Exclusivity and Limited Releases (00:06:46)
James highlights the exclusivity of his brand, focusing on limited releases and the appeal of unique fashion pieces.

James explains his strategy of releasing limited quantities of his fashion pieces, creating a sense of exclusivity and uniqueness. He notes that once a line is sold out, it's gone, which adds value to his brand and appeals to consumers looking for distinctive fashion.
Expansion and Community Support (00:07:57)
James expresses gratitude for the support from his community and talks about expanding his reach through online sales.

James acknowledges the support he receives from his home community while noting that much of his business comes from online sales. He participates in events like sneaker cons to expand his brand's reach and engages with a broader audience.
Collaborations with Artists and Entertainers (00:09:38)
James discusses efforts to collaborate with artists and entertainers to promote his brand and gain wider exposure.

James is working on building relationships with artists and entertainers to feature his designs. He mentions that some pieces have already been picked up by notable figures, and he is actively seeking to expand these opportunities to increase his brand's visibility.
Entrepreneurial Advice and Mindset (00:12:12)
James shares advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing belief in oneself and the importance of consistency.

James offers advice to those starting their own brands, emphasizing the need to believe in oneself, stay consistent, and love the work. He acknowledges the challenges but encourages perseverance and a strong mindset.
Vision for the Future and Creative Goals (00:18:29)
James outlines his ambitious future plans, including expanding his brand and creating new ventures beyond fashion.

James shares his vision for the future, which includes expanding his brand globally and venturing into new areas such as video games and entertainment. He aspires to create a legacy similar to Walt Disney's, focusing on creativity and innovation.
Closing Thoughts and Encouragement (00:22:00)
James concludes with encouragement for others to pursue their dreams and make their own way in life.

In his closing thoughts, James encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and make their own way in life. He stresses the importance of believing in oneself and tapping into one's potential, offering inspiration for future entrepreneurs and creatives.
Introduction of New TV Show (00:23:30)
The guest discusses the development of a new TV show aimed at both kids and adults, promising it will be impactful.

The guest reveals they are past the cartoon phase and are working on a new TV show. This show is designed for both children and adults and is expected to make a significant impact.
Involvement of the Local Community (00:23:52)
The guest plans to involve people from their hometown in the first season, helping them build portfolios and gain royalties.

The guest talks about allowing locals from their hometown to join the first season of the TV show, offering them opportunities to build their portfolios and earn royalties.
Financial Strategy for the Show (00:24:19)
The guest explains their strategy to compensate participants through royalties, as they can't pay upfront, ensuring everyone benefits from the show's success.

Since the guest cannot afford to pay participants upfront, they plan to compensate them through royalties based on the show's earnings, spreading the wealth among collaborators.
Backstory and Motivation (00:24:35)
The guest shares their long-term dedication to the project, having worked on it for years with the support of their clothing line.

The guest expresses their ongoing dedication to the project, having started it even before their clothing line, which now helps fund the TV show.
First Podcast Experience (00:24:59)
The guest expresses gratitude for the opportunity to discuss their brand on a podcast for the first time, focusing on personal stories.

This is the guest's first podcast appearance where they can openly discuss their brand and personal journey, distinct from previous appearances.
Vision as 'The Black Walt Disney' (00:25:36)
The guest shares their vision of becoming 'The Black Walt Disney', focusing on positive cultural impact and generational learning.

The guest elaborates on their aspiration to emulate Walt Disney's cultural impact, emphasizing educational and positive values.
Importance of Human Connection (00:26:30)
The guest emphasizes the importance of human connection and unity, aiming to bring people together through their show.

The guest stresses that their show aims to foster human connection and unity, bringing people together beyond differences.
Show Conclusion (00:26:42)
The host thanks the guest for appearing on the show, marking the end of the episode with promises of more content to come.

The host concludes the episode by thanking Mr. James Madox Jr. for his participation and hints at more exciting content in future episodes.