Taking Apparel from Commodity to Craft with Jacob Long, American Woolen Company

Made in America with Ari Santiago

This is an incredible Made in America story of bringing woolen textile manufacturing back to the US - specifically back to New England. In this episode, Ari talks to Jacob Long, President of American Woolen Company, about his passion for creating a story and a community around the American wool industry.

They discuss the idea of 'craft' manufacturing - similar to the craft beer movement, Jacob believes there is a sizeable market for craft textiles. Not only can it be a source of pride for an area, but a way to bring back old traditions and make new ones.

Ari and Jacob discuss the commoditization of apparel with its economic, social, and environmental implications. Jacob also talks about the challenges of entrepreneurship, having the tenacity to stick through the challenges, and finding the right core audience for your product.

A fascinating episode - and a ton to learn from!

Jacob Long, American Woolen Company

Website: https://americanwoolen.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-woolen-company/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/americanwoolen

Instagram: http://instagram.com/american_woolen

Jacob's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-harrison-long-2294127/

Ari Santiago, CEO, CompassMSP

Company Website: https://compassmsp.com/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compass-msp/

Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MadeinAmericaPodcast

Podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/made-in-america-podcast-with-ari

Podcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/MadeinAmericaPodcastwithAri

Ari's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asantiago104/

Podcast produced by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/

Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/

Jacob and Ari discuss:

Materials

Branding

Design

Local traditions

Craft manufacturing

Made in America

Environmental footprint / Sustainability