Talk of the County Podcast | Fashion Alliance

Franklin County Media

What steps are crucial to achieving the vision of Columbus becoming the fashion capital of the Midwest?

We have a special guest who is at the forefront of transforming the fashion scene in Franklin County and Columbus. Joining us is Yogi Terrell, CEO of Warhol & Wall St. and Director of the Columbus Fashion Alliance.

We dive into the world of fashion, touching on everything from the latest trends, like biker shorts, to common fashion blunders. Yogi shares his ambitious plans for launching a groundbreaking 43,000-square-foot fashion innovation center, right here in Columbus, and discusses its anticipated impact on our community.

We talk about important topics around diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fashion industry and the misconceptions that sometimes come with these initiatives. Yogi provides valuable insights into how the Columbus Fashion Alliance is supporting emerging designers and entrepreneurs through partnerships, educational programs, and market creation.

Additionally, we touch on fashion's potential to create economic opportunities, the importance of personal expression, and how fashion can serve as a pathway to success for our youth and underserved communities. From reminiscing about past fashion trends to discussing sustainability efforts and the influence of music and art, this episode is a comprehensive look at the evolving fashion landscape in Columbus.

Top Takeaways

There’s a deep dive into the fear and misconceptions around diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, emphasizing that these efforts create more opportunities and benefits for everyone.

The conversation highlights the potential of the fashion industry to boost economic opportunities in Columbus, focusing on small batch production, smart manufacturing, and emerging direct-to-consumer brands.

Fashion is portrayed as a tool for personal expression, identity, and confidence, especially for underserved communities, creating pathways for success and a sense of belonging.

There's an emphasis on sustainability within the fashion industry, including projects aimed at reducing textile waste and attracting eco-conscious companies to create jobs.

Yogi Terrell shares personal stories of how fashion served as a form of protection and pride during his childhood, illustrating the personal and societal impact of fashion.

The cultural significance of fashion, music, and art in communities, and how these elements shape consumer experiences and community identity.

The importance of inclusive leadership is discussed, focusing on allowing others to thrive and combating the fear of others' success as a threat.

The value of creating community centers and unique shopping experiences in Columbus is highlighted, emphasizing lifestyle experiences and localized fashion knowledge sharing.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Original, authentic Franklin County and Columbus winners.

06:06 Partnered with county to aid sewers of color.

09:57 Fashion creates opportunity for youth in community.

13:06 People of color influence fashion and trends.

15:51 Culture's impact on economy and city visibility.

17:10 Columbus fashion business had influential periods.

20:45 Boutiques offering personal, artistic, local brand experience.

26:38 County key to fashion; unity boosts potential.

28:23 Retail, creativity, education, financial support in industry.

31:33 Partnering with legacy brands to support local economy.

35:40 Encouraging youth to become successful entrepreneurs.

38:37 Shift perspective to embrace opportunity in diversity.

42:23 Building culture, fostering connections among creative talent.

45:32 Started Warhol on Wall Street 14 years ago, branding agency specializing in strategy, brand building, storytelling, and experiences.

49:39 Franklin County aims to lead in sustainability.

50:56 Columbus to be Midwest's fashion capital.

56:33 Clum's Fashion Alliance launching an innovation center.

57:41 Conclude with words of your own.

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