Can 3D Knitting Fix Fashion? Slater McLean, Oliver Charles

Send us a text In this episode of the Happy Planet Podcast, host Abigail Carroll interviews Slater McLean, co-founder of Oliver Charles, a sustainable sweater company. Slater discusses the significant environmental impact of the fashion industry and how Oliver Charles is addressing these issues using natural materials like yak wool and seaweed-based fibers. The company employs an innovative 3D knitting process to eliminate waste. Oliver Charles also relies on an on-demand manufacturing model to prevent excess inventory. The discussion touches upon the challenges and opportunities within the fashion industry, pointing towards a shift away from fast fashion towards quality and sustainability. Slater highlights the potential for localized garment production in the U.S. and provides advice for new entrepreneurs. This episode underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in fashion and the innovation driving these changes. 00:00 Introduction  01:00 The Environmental Impact of Fashion 01:57 Oliver Charles: A Sustainable Fashion Brand 03:22 Innovative Materials: Yak Wool and Seaweed Fiber 09:28 On-Demand Manufacturing and Its Benefits 15:29 Building a Brand and Finding Customers 27:46 The Future of Fashion and Sustainability 33:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 34:21 Conclusion  Listen on Apple , Spotify, our website, or pretty much anywhere you listen to podcasts! Thank you to our sponsors. Gulf of Maine Research Institute and Bold Ocean Ventures have partnered to create a mission-driven venture capital fund, supporting the growth of innovative, sustainable ocean-related businesses. Startup Marin Skincare has rocketed thanks to products made with Maine-lobster-derived glycoprotein that work on eczema and dry skin. Former guest on our show and co-Founder Patrick Breeding is offering listeners a 20% discount on their skincare products. Type HAPPYPLANET into the coupon code field! Spark No. 9, ensures that companies - and startups - have successful product launches by testing their products online. Remove the guesswork before you launch! Support the show Facebook Instagram Abigail Carroll LinkedIN Happy Support the show Facebook Instagram Abigail Carroll LinkedIN Happy Planet LinkedIN Twitter Listen on: APPLE YouTube SPOTIFY www.happyplanetpodcast.com