benjamin sehl + mackenzie yeates & kotn
From Toronto to Egypt: Redefining Farm-to-Table Clothing
we're creating space for the brains behind the brands we love, and asking good questions along the way. the result is a deep dive into the how and why of brand-building, from blueprints to launch day, customers as community and the detours in between. big lessons, easy listening.
In this episode of Read Receipt, we are excited to welcome Benjamin Sehl and Mackenzie Yates, two of the founders of Kotn, a brand known for its sustainable approach to creating high-quality Egyptian cotton staples. Their journey began with a simple idea of making better white t-shirts and evolved into a mission to support cotton farming communities in Egypt. Join us as Benjamin and Mackenzie share their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges they faced in the early days, and their commitment to sustainability and quality in the fashion industry.
Tune in to discover how Benjamin and Mackenzie turned their passion for great design and ethical production into a thriving brand that values longevity and social impact.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation!
the Show Notes
Summary:
Benjamin Sehl and Mackenzie Yates, two of the founders of Kotn, share their inspiring journey from Toronto to Egypt, where they launched a sustainable fashion brand focused on high-quality Egyptian cotton staples. Kotn offers impeccably crafted clothing that combines contemporary design with ethical production practices. Benjamin and Mackenzie discuss their evolution from branding experts to fashion entrepreneurs, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges of building a brand in the competitive fashion industry. The conversation explores their entrepreneurial experiences, the development of Kotn's products, and their vision for the future.
Keywords:
sustainable fashion, entrepreneurship, brand building, Egyptian cotton, Kotn, Benjamin Sehl, Mackenzie Yates
Takeaways:
- Benjamin Sehl and Mackenzie Yates’ journey from Toronto to founding Kotn is driven by a passion for high-quality, sustainable fashion.
- Kotn focuses on creating high-quality, Egyptian cotton clothing that promotes overall well-being and environmental consciousness.
- Building a brand involves understanding market needs, listening to customer feedback, and maintaining a clear vision.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges, but also opportunities for brands like Kotn to adapt and thrive.
- Benjamin and Mackenzie’s dedication to innovative design and sustainable practices drives the success of Kotn.
Sound Bites:
- "Kotn started as a way to create high-quality cotton clothing that combines sustainability and great design."
- "Our goal is to provide high-quality, ethically produced clothing that people can trust and enjoy."
- "Building a brand requires understanding market needs and staying true to your vision."
- "The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in business."
- "Kotn is about providing sustainable, high-quality fashion solutions that people can trust and feel confident using."
Chapters:
00:00 - Benjamin and Mackenzie’s Background and Journey-
Benjamin and Mackenzie introduce themselves and share their journey from Toronto to founding Kotn.
08:01 - The Inspiration Behind Kotn-
Benjamin and Mackenzie discuss the personal and professional experiences that inspired them to create Kotn and the early days of the brand.
12:30 - Transitioning from Branding to Fashion Entrepreneurship-
Benjamin and Mackenzie explain their transition from branding experts to starting a sustainable fashion brand and the lessons learned.
23:17 - The Importance of Sustainable Practices and Quality Craftsmanship-
The conversation delves into how Kotn emphasizes sustainable practices and high-quality craftsmanship in its products.
25:30 - Challenges and Opportunities During the Pandemic-
Benjamin and Mackenzie talk about the challenges of pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic and the opportunities it presented.
27:26 - Commitment to Quality and Innovation-
Benjamin and Mackenzie highlight Kotn’s dedication to creating high-quality, sustainable clothing.
31:23 - Building a Strong Brand Identity-
The discussion explores the importance of a strong brand identity and connecting with consumers authentically.
36:02 - The Vision for Kotn-
Benjamin and Mackenzie share their vision for the future of Kotn and their goals for the brand.
47:37 - Patience and Persistence in Entrepreneurship-
Benjamin and Mackenzie emphasize the need for patience and persistence in achieving long-term success.
51:43 - Final Thoughts and Insights-
Benjamin and Mackenzie wrap up the conversation with final thoughts and valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.