How Actively Black Grew into $30 Million Apparel Brand

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  • čas přidán 5. 07. 2024
  • 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

Komentáře • 192

  • @therealj.akande7701
    @therealj.akande7701 Před rokem +34

    This episode was everything. It's so inspiring to see someone not sacrifice their faith and morals for success!!

  • @Cardel34
    @Cardel34 Před rokem +70

    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

  • @ralphaelconfer9719
    @ralphaelconfer9719 Před rokem +12

    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
      @MelanieThorpelavern Před rokem +3

      I noticed that too! His integrity and honesty could be intimidating for this kind of platform.

    • @chrisjackson4304
      @chrisjackson4304 Před rokem +2

      I felt exactly the same way and the crazy thing is, he's the most inspiring person I've seen on here.

    • @courtneyburston5255
      @courtneyburston5255 Před 2 měsíci +1

      Thought the same thing lol

  • @yagirltaynik
    @yagirltaynik Před rokem +13

    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
      @bankston11 Před rokem +1

      Me too, but it's online with the other brands, and they're bigger. I'm getting my order together now.

  • @memp9786
    @memp9786 Před rokem +12

    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
      @theartofshe Před rokem +3

      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
      @noonecares3821 Před 9 měsíci +1

      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
      @curtlove9781 Před měsícem

      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!!

  • @DeanReynoldsMusic
    @DeanReynoldsMusic Před rokem +12

    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!!!!!

  • @carolynhayes6804
    @carolynhayes6804 Před rokem +21

    Very important interview. Showing the race struggles is real but can be overcome ✊🏾

  • @UNDEFEATEDSPORTS
    @UNDEFEATEDSPORTS Před rokem +30

    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

  • @jegj2008
    @jegj2008 Před rokem +4

    10:51 Purchased items twice in one week. Quality merchandise. Love the fit and look! Much success to this company.

  • @gideon7177
    @gideon7177 Před rokem +13

    Love it. Don't sacrifice your integrity for a short term buck. Definitely supporting

  • @irisharris1247
    @irisharris1247 Před rokem +22

    Great interview! I've been one of the tribe since Black Friday 2020! Keep doing big things, Actively Black!

  • @vesey1585
    @vesey1585 Před rokem +11

    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.

  • @Parick7115
    @Parick7115 Před rokem +66

    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
      @Ranieri197 Před rokem

      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
      @Parick7115 Před rokem

      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
      @adrienclaeys294 Před rokem

      @@Parick7115 It's a well-known fact that with experience hands, things get executed efficiently. Smart people are aware of this already.

    • @waltermartinelli8384
      @waltermartinelli8384 Před rokem +1

      ​ @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
      @jennyr.cordero2018 Před rokem

      I’m facing difficulties despite the fact that I’ve been following tutorials on here. Can she help me?

  • @tgqinc
    @tgqinc Před rokem +11

    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.

  • @ROYALNEVERSPOILED
    @ROYALNEVERSPOILED Před rokem +3

    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

  • @rerebrook5057
    @rerebrook5057 Před rokem +5

    Troy and Rashaad should take interviewing tips from Tamron Hall. Sometimes their interview style is cold.

    • @duanedonovan1090
      @duanedonovan1090 Před rokem +1

      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.

  • @nickmullins4649
    @nickmullins4649 Před rokem +3

    Awesome segment.
    Founder is clear and transparent
    Offering blueprint to success

  • @lisajay7975
    @lisajay7975 Před rokem +3

    Thank you for introducing me to Actively Black! The messaging of the brand is so powerful and I am so empowered by hearing it!

  • @Haramu-Fal0
    @Haramu-Fal0 Před rokem +2

    They give back %10. That's a tithe. Shout out to this brotha! He understands the assignment!✊🏾💯 #activelyblack

  • @Franchize_OooWEEE
    @Franchize_OooWEEE Před rokem +10

    Rashad looks hella tired or hella pissed. I could be wrong. But, I hope all is well.

  • @tahirabruce477
    @tahirabruce477 Před rokem +1

    Excellent interview! Hearing a black man speak so honestly and eloquently about his faith helping his business! 👏🏾 👏🏾 👏🏾

  • @pay_attn
    @pay_attn Před rokem +3

    Great interview, inspiring journey… RESPECT to Lanny Smith for standing on his integrity for us.

  • @unfoldablewealth
    @unfoldablewealth Před rokem +4

    Build an audience and then serve them! That's the key. Always give more in value than you ask for in monetary terms

  • @TerrickHarden
    @TerrickHarden Před rokem +8

    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

  • @cautiondolls
    @cautiondolls Před rokem +1

    Amazing interview! Always the most informative avenue for finance, culture and great conversations! Can’t wait for the next one 🙏🏽

  • @jamistew1182
    @jamistew1182 Před rokem +3

    Amazing interview! Shows us an example of what is possible. Salute to you all!

  • @aaronhookchatters
    @aaronhookchatters Před rokem

    Congrats to all of you Brothaz! This Channel is so inspirational!!!

  • @brianmortonjr6751
    @brianmortonjr6751 Před rokem +2

    Awesome interview! Speaks to the powerfulness of relationships, integrity and being prepared for opportunities when they present themself!

  • @tymberlandtv42
    @tymberlandtv42 Před rokem +1

    This is a great interview! More than an interview to be honest. Inspiration. Salute

  • @isaaclegend365
    @isaaclegend365 Před 5 měsíci

    Brilliant brother….. love his nonsense, uncompromising, black and bold stance. Love what the brand stands for. You have my supporting ✊🏾

  • @iBarber504
    @iBarber504 Před rokem +2

    Thank you for having this guest on.

  • @ari_the_designer
    @ari_the_designer Před rokem +1

    One of the best interviews I have seen!

  • @TNISH11
    @TNISH11 Před rokem

    Loved this interview! Never heard of the brand until now. Headed straight to the website!

  • @shawnv.5967
    @shawnv.5967 Před rokem +2

    Great interview. I love this clothing brand and how they give back to the community. They also have high quality and stylish apparel.

  • @wesupportblackbusinesses6120

    One of the best interviews I've seen. Thanks #WSBB #BLACKOWNED

  • @jasmineweiss1097
    @jasmineweiss1097 Před 6 měsíci

    The episode was absolutely phenomenal! I learned so so much!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

  • @IamLivingTheTruth
    @IamLivingTheTruth Před rokem +2

    This is great, but wondering why the hosts didn't have research done about the guests before they appeared on the show. 🤔

  • @lawrencemiller3081
    @lawrencemiller3081 Před rokem +2

    Amazing story!! I'm so motivated to get our brand going!!! So inspired!

  • @microecom
    @microecom Před rokem

    Very good interview and salute to what this brotha is building!

  • @missceebrownin
    @missceebrownin Před rokem +1

    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
      @chrisjackson4304 Před rokem

      He didn't say he was from London. Troy said he was in London and saw everyone wearing it.

  • @RemoteAdminJayJay2
    @RemoteAdminJayJay2 Před rokem +1

    I'm shopping on Activelyblack right now this brotha got a new patron for sure

  • @Thecloudwatcher
    @Thecloudwatcher Před rokem +2

    Loved this interview.

  • @rerebrook5057
    @rerebrook5057 Před rokem +2

    I’m in love with this man’s thinking and passion. ❤

  • @MicAssassin
    @MicAssassin Před rokem +2

    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 👑👑👑

  • @iternityhuman1782
    @iternityhuman1782 Před rokem

    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.

  • @anthonyjakes7049
    @anthonyjakes7049 Před rokem +3

    The Truth is being revealed, Truth needs no colours and the Truth has set you Free! Ashay.

  • @karygillins5011
    @karygillins5011 Před rokem +1

    I’m speechless. Just ordered yesterday. I’m ordering from now on.

  • @geniiy_
    @geniiy_ Před rokem

    Great interview so much i learned💯

  • @adiosgamer3793
    @adiosgamer3793 Před rokem +1

    The best interview!

  • @thesandman8642
    @thesandman8642 Před rokem +1

    Congrats Lanny on making a brand that tells our story in an authentic way!

  • @m3s3tv
    @m3s3tv Před rokem +6

    As a upcoming black clothing brand this was extremely insightful. Appreciate it

  • @genog5791
    @genog5791 Před rokem +2

    Great interview! 🙏🏿💪🏿

  • @albertfloyd6339
    @albertfloyd6339 Před rokem

    I salute this man. Prayerful the business will continue to significantly prosper. I can't wait to receive my gear.

  • @StrokaReviews
    @StrokaReviews Před rokem +1

    This is a powerful interview, blks will always stay at the bottom until we work together. #StayBlessed

  • @bockariejombor
    @bockariejombor Před rokem +1

    Phenomenal session 👏🏽

  • @nolikesorcommentsneeded8910

    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

  • @TheFearlessBabe
    @TheFearlessBabe Před rokem +4

    I love this love session. Wish I discovered y’all sooner

  • @MarcusHarcusUSA
    @MarcusHarcusUSA Před rokem +2

    Let’s all support this Black excellence brand.

  • @GjerrusAllMighty
    @GjerrusAllMighty Před rokem +3

    Gave me goosebumps..

  • @brieyenajoseph4627
    @brieyenajoseph4627 Před rokem +1

    Oh man, this podcast 🔥

  • @dwightfleary5106
    @dwightfleary5106 Před rokem

    🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 interview

  • @LeonGenesis
    @LeonGenesis Před rokem +1

    The Fidelity AD! 💪🏾💪🏾🔥🔥🔥

  • @ACEJONESCEO_GUOKMUSICGROUP

    Good dude much success to you bro💯

  • @abrambrand
    @abrambrand Před rokem

    Salute to this brother!💪🏿

  • @theonlywaygoodvibes
    @theonlywaygoodvibes Před 11 měsíci

    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.

  • @MsBlack
    @MsBlack Před rokem +3

    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 🖤

  • @CoachMarcus92
    @CoachMarcus92 Před rokem +1

    Great interview! Id love to see y’all connect with SIA Collective as well

  • @corybaby101
    @corybaby101 Před rokem

    Love it Mane

  • @amandaward4661
    @amandaward4661 Před rokem +3

    Dope interview! Much respect! Ordered 3 pieces last night. Also consider the black cycling community! Inbox me!

  • @dafingaz
    @dafingaz Před rokem

    Incredible. Working to be in that interview chair one day. 🙏🏾

  • @blackbusinessreviews4789

    Big shout out to Lanny Smith! I love this company man. I will be reviewing them soon!

  • @cjtheusful
    @cjtheusful Před rokem

    😊 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.😊😅

  • @mrs.pettway7506
    @mrs.pettway7506 Před rokem +2

    AMAZING INTERVIEW!!! THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRATION!

  • @Cavario.Online
    @Cavario.Online Před rokem

    I'm ALL IN! LET'S GO, MY PEOPLE!😚✊🏾🖤👑🧠🔌

  • @dwhite0723
    @dwhite0723 Před 9 měsíci

    Im proud to own some Actively Black merch. It is extremely high-quality materials. I dont mine paying to support this.

  • @wealthrebel
    @wealthrebel Před rokem +1

    This guy was great I’m definitely going to buy some gear.

  • @BearfaceM10
    @BearfaceM10 Před rokem +1

    There’s already a brand called Act of Faith. They have great merch and the quality is great as well.

    • @memp9786
      @memp9786 Před rokem +2

      🙄
      Sir… it’s his brand… unless you’re referring to another… but probably not

  • @jorhodes8723
    @jorhodes8723 Před rokem +1

    Great apparel and a great fit with a purpose. Win win.

  • @TheFearlessBabe
    @TheFearlessBabe Před rokem +7

    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
      @Ornelas11B Před rokem

      Start a company called “Actively White”. You’ll be ok.

  • @MightyR1000
    @MightyR1000 Před rokem +2

    I saw Dion Sanders wearing this suit. They sold out in 2x's Grey and black. Oh well, I'll wait.

  • @SoulPapiii
    @SoulPapiii Před rokem +2

    WHAT ACTIVATES YOUR FAITH IS YOU HAVE TO PUT FORTH ACTION
    ITS THE ACTION THAT UNLOCKS MOST OF THESE BLESSINGS

  • @bayshaunseay7282
    @bayshaunseay7282 Před rokem

    Dope!

  • @brklynblack
    @brklynblack Před rokem +2

    I JUST ORDERED!

  • @LookGoodFeelGreat247
    @LookGoodFeelGreat247 Před rokem +3

    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…

  • @RespectfullyGreat
    @RespectfullyGreat Před rokem

    Powerful!!

  • @6familyfirst
    @6familyfirst Před rokem +2

    Let’s get it 💪🏽💪🏽

  • @gerarddaniels4439
    @gerarddaniels4439 Před rokem +1

    💪🏾 Go Coogs!

  • @entityofcarbon892
    @entityofcarbon892 Před rokem +1

    If it's genuine, and there's no deception, hope he has great great success.

  • @theninolife
    @theninolife Před rokem

    Great info and his show was amazing in Fashion Week

  • @MrCargill89
    @MrCargill89 Před rokem

    I knew it re: active faith I just had a feeling!

  • @sharpvision6613
    @sharpvision6613 Před rokem +1

    This video is a fckin Master Class

  • @missj9879
    @missj9879 Před rokem

    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.

  • @mathewmcfool
    @mathewmcfool Před rokem +2

    Robert Smith said now think about growing that into a $300M brand

  • @rich1911
    @rich1911 Před rokem +1

    This was an inspiring episode! I’m placing my order tonight! ✊🏾

  • @DOV107
    @DOV107 Před rokem

    Authenticity!

  • @Meatball431
    @Meatball431 Před rokem +2

    Damn Actively Black is yours how do I get Merch Salute I will purchase

  • @LISTENTOTHEDJ
    @LISTENTOTHEDJ Před rokem +1

    Liked and L I S T E 🎧 E D 🔥🔥🔥

  • @vickkinorton1805
    @vickkinorton1805 Před rokem

    Productive decisions are great. My clothes closet reveals that I didn't. So sad 😭

  • @kenyagamboa4571
    @kenyagamboa4571 Před rokem

    🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾❤️❤️❤️

  • @babyboyno10
    @babyboyno10 Před rokem

    👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾