How Actively Black Grew into $30 Million Apparel Brand
In this episode, we spoke to former NBA player turned entrepreneur Lanny Smith. He discussed how he built his multimillion dollar apparel brands Actively Black and Active Faith Sports, the importance of developing a strong brand identity, and working with Steph Curry.
He also talked about collaborating with major names such as Barack Obama & The Muhammad Ali Estate, venture capital, and more. #activelyblack #Athleisure #merchandise
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00:00 Intro
03:54 What was the idea to start the brand
08:12 How did you go from idea to actual brand
11:33 How did you market your brand
14:52 How did you start Actively Black
19:55 Has the fact that you’re black affected the company
21:41 Are you running Actively Fit different from Actively Faith
23:54 How did you make 3 million in sales
25:30 How did you miss out on 8 million
30:15 What was different from your first brand to Actively Black
30:47 When did you realize you needed to raise money
33:46 How much was the equity when you raised money and did you have to take money
36:13 Did China affect your business during the pandemic
39:20 How did you get Obama to wear your brand
42:18 How did you work with NIL players
44:53 What were the struggles of people not understanding your vision
50:30 How did you get the collab with Muhammad Ali and Marvel
53:59 Are you looking for major athletes to work with the brand
57:00 Outro
Пікірлер: 192
This episode was everything. It's so inspiring to see someone not sacrifice their faith and morals for success!!
I salute this brother. Integrity, conviction, determination and so many other traits that should be honored and respected. I pray for his success and I will be supporting
At first I thought his brand was too expensive for me but after watching this I’m going to support because I like the message behind the brand and the good he’s doing for US! ❤
@bankston11
Жыл бұрын
Me too, but it's online with the other brands, and they're bigger. I'm getting my order together now.
The young brother deserved a lot more energy and enthusiasm than he received from the hosts of this podcast, one in particular whose mind seemed to be somewhere else. I guess since he couldn't say he's doing or did it too; he didn't have much to say other than ask questions from his list. Great, great job young brother!
@MelanieThorpelavern
Жыл бұрын
I noticed that too! His integrity and honesty could be intimidating for this kind of platform.
@chrisjackson4304
Жыл бұрын
I felt exactly the same way and the crazy thing is, he's the most inspiring person I've seen on here.
@courtneyburston5255
2 ай бұрын
Thought the same thing lol
Love it. Don't sacrifice your integrity for a short term buck. Definitely supporting
Very important interview. Showing the race struggles is real but can be overcome ✊🏾
Great interview! I've been one of the tribe since Black Friday 2020! Keep doing big things, Actively Black!
10:51 Purchased items twice in one week. Quality merchandise. Love the fit and look! Much success to this company.
I’m glad y’all brought him man I never heard of this before bro I’m definitely bouta support him and his brand let’s gooooooo. I’m in the middle of trying to do the same as him build an active apparel brand so this was huge motivation for me man
Excellent interview!! Although, Rashad seemed very disinterested- didn’t thank the guest, hardly engaged in any of his convo, and seemed to act dismissive to his thoughts & insights about people not really supporting black brands…not sure if this is because dude isn’t someone kissing the feet of rappers/actors/other celebs, just genuinely showing gratitude for those who really stood behind him & his black & faith based brands. Not sure what that body language & lack of engagement was all about, but it’s disappointing to see Rashad be that way to people if they aren’t a certain “somebody”😔 Thankfully, Troy was there to lead the interview and show the guest some interest and respect for the message he brought to the show. This guy is very successful in what he’s accomplished in such a short period of time. He spoke wonderfully and articulately about his efforts, struggles, disappointments, & triumphs- loved this and will support his brand when I can!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🙌🏾🙌🏾
@theartofshe
Жыл бұрын
I was thinking the same thing. I read body language and that Rashad guy was either sleepy or disinterested. He was even low key rolling his eyes lol. Like how are you going to interview someone and not be energetic or show some love to your guest. 🤔
@noonecares3821
9 ай бұрын
I saw the same and was really disappointed by that. This was one of the best guests they’ve had. He dropped tons of jewels.
@curtlove9781
Ай бұрын
Rashad looks like that a lot in most of the interviews. I used to say the same thing every time I watched an episode. I'm beginning to think its just a personality thing. Nothing personal. I could be wrong, but its what I fathom!!
Not too many people bold enough to share their "Christian Faith" from a brand perspective. Especially making millions of dollars. This story resonates with me in so many ways! I just launched a video production company and struggled to niche down. Bear in mind that all my clients are usually christians. And my wife was like..Dean, here is your new tagline. Storytelling is our ministry! And now I feel so much more fulfill.. Be who your faith is.. #InJesusNameIPlay... sooo dope!!!!!
@DrClay-gf4qq
Жыл бұрын
Where are you located?
@DeanReynoldsMusic
Жыл бұрын
@@DrClay-gf4qq Atlanta
Amazing Interview! very important dialogue between informative BLACK leaders. Salute to Lanny and the Actively Black Team! Continue to serve your people and the black community, we're grateful to have a leader like yourself at the table.
Awesome segment. Founder is clear and transparent Offering blueprint to success
Thank you for introducing me to Actively Black! The messaging of the brand is so powerful and I am so empowered by hearing it!
This was brilliantly put together. I’ve been following your videos for months now and with professional help, I’m making outstanding progress with my money decisions.
@Ranieri197
Жыл бұрын
I live paycheck to paycheck and I'm looking to have all that changed this year, as I want to have money work for me instead. Will you be kind to share your process?
@Parick7115
Жыл бұрын
Hi Ranieri. A couple of months ago I was in the same situation living paycheck to paycheck until I got introduced by a colleague to. -Ms. Brianna Mckee Harris, who has helped me get into stocks, bonds, fx and crypto. After a succession of payouts, I’ll be starting up my new business before Q2 of this year.
@adrienclaeys294
Жыл бұрын
@@Parick7115 It's a well-known fact that with experience hands, things get executed efficiently. Smart people are aware of this already.
@waltermartinelli8384
Жыл бұрын
@Patrick Burke I ran a search on Brianna the FA you mentioned, I gotta say that I'm pretty much impressed with her credentials.I contacted her already. I can’t wait to get started on my investment journey! Thanks for sharing
@jennyr.cordero2018
Жыл бұрын
I’m facing difficulties despite the fact that I’ve been following tutorials on here. Can she help me?
Thank you for having this guest on.
One of the Very Best EYL interviews I have ever seen! Overwhelming Inspirational and Motivational to see A black CEO getting the past due Profits from the Sports Industry for God's Glory Exquisite example of True Faith and Black Excellence!!!! #EylDoesItAgain #ActivelyBlack #ActiveFaith
Idk about the rest of yall but I bought 4 shirts before the interview was over. I love the brother's story and aspirations. Can't wait to support more.
Great interview, inspiring journey… RESPECT to Lanny Smith for standing on his integrity for us.
They give back %10. That's a tithe. Shout out to this brotha! He understands the assignment!✊🏾💯 #activelyblack
Excellent interview! Hearing a black man speak so honestly and eloquently about his faith helping his business! 👏🏾 👏🏾 👏🏾
Troy and Rashaad should take interviewing tips from Tamron Hall. Sometimes their interview style is cold.
@duanedonovan1090
Жыл бұрын
Nah, I like it when we're our authentic self. No bafoonery, just 3 black men having a conversation. They let the man speak without constantly interrupting him. Maybe because I just listen and not watch it.
Build an audience and then serve them! That's the key. Always give more in value than you ask for in monetary terms
Amazing interview! Shows us an example of what is possible. Salute to you all!
Amazing interview! Always the most informative avenue for finance, culture and great conversations! Can’t wait for the next one 🙏🏽
Rashad looks hella tired or hella pissed. I could be wrong. But, I hope all is well.
@noonecares3821
9 ай бұрын
He was hella rude for sure.
One of the best interviews I've seen. Thanks #WSBB #BLACKOWNED
I’m speechless. Just ordered yesterday. I’m ordering from now on.
Awesome interview! Speaks to the powerfulness of relationships, integrity and being prepared for opportunities when they present themself!
This is a great interview! More than an interview to be honest. Inspiration. Salute
Congrats Lanny on making a brand that tells our story in an authentic way!
I'm shopping on Activelyblack right now this brotha got a new patron for sure
Congrats to all of you Brothaz! This Channel is so inspirational!!!
One of the best interviews I have seen!
The episode was absolutely phenomenal! I learned so so much!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Loved this interview.
Gave me goosebumps..
Loved this interview! Never heard of the brand until now. Headed straight to the website!
Amazing story!! I'm so motivated to get our brand going!!! So inspired!
Rashad be looking so upset lol.. I know he don't be but he looks like it all the time.. I'm like that too.. Gotta catch myself sometimes
This is great, but wondering why the hosts didn't have research done about the guests before they appeared on the show. 🤔
Great interview. I love this clothing brand and how they give back to the community. They also have high quality and stylish apparel.
Brilliant brother….. love his nonsense, uncompromising, black and bold stance. Love what the brand stands for. You have my supporting ✊🏾
Let’s all support this Black excellence brand.
I’m in love with this man’s thinking and passion. ❤
The Truth is being revealed, Truth needs no colours and the Truth has set you Free! Ashay.
Very good interview and salute to what this brotha is building!
Listening to this with headphones while sitting at my desk job👑💯 I've been planning ways to relaunch my business which has been dormant for years, this has helped to spark some things, Thanks for the gems Kings 👑👑👑
Great interview so much i learned💯
The best interview!
As a upcoming black clothing brand this was extremely insightful. Appreciate it
This is a powerful interview, blks will always stay at the bottom until we work together. #StayBlessed
Great interview! 🙏🏿💪🏿
Phenomenal session 👏🏽
Gymshark founder is from Birmingham, not London. Love this guy - never heard of him before but love what he's doing and he is super inspiring. He is giving me ideas on how to go forward with my projects.
@chrisjackson4304
Жыл бұрын
He didn't say he was from London. Troy said he was in London and saw everyone wearing it.
Wow that’s a very strong interview very telling of what goes down in the industry. Hats off to the founder , I wish you much success and power.
I love this love session. Wish I discovered y’all sooner
Oh man, this podcast 🔥
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 interview
Good dude much success to you bro💯
I salute this man. Prayerful the business will continue to significantly prosper. I can't wait to receive my gear.
i have to connect with this man!! there are so many parallels on what he is saying and what i’m anticipating for my business. and i need to model for his site. nah this is crazy 🖤
Salute to this brother!💪🏿
The Fidelity AD! 💪🏾💪🏾🔥🔥🔥
Big shout out to Lanny Smith! I love this company man. I will be reviewing them soon!
Man what a Great interview, as like others I never heard of this brand but I am glad I have tapped in on this episode...#ActivelyBlack is the New go to for Athleisure wear. #congratulations
Love it Mane
Incredible. Working to be in that interview chair one day. 🙏🏾
Dope interview! Much respect! Ordered 3 pieces last night. Also consider the black cycling community! Inbox me!
I'm ALL IN! LET'S GO, MY PEOPLE!😚✊🏾🖤👑🧠🔌
I saw Dion Sanders wearing this suit. They sold out in 2x's Grey and black. Oh well, I'll wait.
I JUST ORDERED!
Thanks a lot Lanny Smith you just put my mission on a bigger level mindset is level what I took out of this thanks. As a people, we have to do better as a people.
Great interview! Id love to see y’all connect with SIA Collective as well
Im proud to own some Actively Black merch. It is extremely high-quality materials. I dont mine paying to support this.
This guy was great I’m definitely going to buy some gear.
😊 awesome Testimonial experience, I made my first order today. I came across this brand on social media , and I was attracted to the clothing from the first site. I am looking forward to wearing your brand, I also Sander Boys rocking it at Colorado Football campus. It's a Bold Brand.😊😅
Great apparel and a great fit with a purpose. Win win.
Dope!
There’s already a brand called Act of Faith. They have great merch and the quality is great as well.
@memp9786
Жыл бұрын
🙄 Sir… it’s his brand… unless you’re referring to another… but probably not
AMAZING INTERVIEW!!! THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRATION!
If it's genuine, and there's no deception, hope he has great great success.
Sometimes I feel so much fear as a designer but I look to people like you and know that it’s possible. I just choose to keep moving.
@Ornelas11B
Жыл бұрын
Start a company called “Actively White”. You’ll be ok.
Powerful!!
This video is a fckin Master Class
WHAT ACTIVATES YOUR FAITH IS YOU HAVE TO PUT FORTH ACTION ITS THE ACTION THAT UNLOCKS MOST OF THESE BLESSINGS
@SoulPapiii
Жыл бұрын
^
@SoulPapiii
Жыл бұрын
^
@SoulPapiii
Жыл бұрын
^
Robert Smith said now think about growing that into a $300M brand
💪🏾 Go Coogs!
I knew it re: active faith I just had a feeling!
Damn Actively Black is yours how do I get Merch Salute I will purchase
Let’s get it 💪🏽💪🏽
Here for all the inspiration and motivation this provides to be an entrepreneur and admire this CEO’s grind to the max. However, we gotta stop tryna be politically correct wit these answers. Eye hear wen he says his goal to grow the biz was never linked to celeb endorsements, but he started by mentioning how impactful two celebs were to his business. Seems like although that may hav not been the goal, it undoubtedly had an effect and impact on his business…
Authenticity!
I would wear this brand in a heartbeat. It’s nice, I work out, I like the way he intertwines comfort and trend, and it looks well put together. I wish I could get to him. Call me THE Brand Ambassador.
How do I reach out to this gentleman to do a collaboration effort?
Productive decisions are great. My clothes closet reveals that I didn't. So sad 😭
# We are the BLUE PRINT. Hello
We don’t need to be a black Nike! So glad you said that.
Great info and his show was amazing in Fashion Week
I remember when Lanny was a 15 year old high school basketball player