What Streetwear Gets Right About Belonging | With Jaime Bacalan Ep. 13

Ever wondered what it takes to grow a streetwear brand in a city like Nashville?

"Rejection just made me hungier"

Dive into the story of Rooted, a Nashville-based streetwear and lifestyle brand that’s redefining community-driven retail. From overcoming rejection in the sneaker industry to creating immersive retail experiences, Rooted’s founder shares the philosophy behind the brand, their obsession with connection, and the innovative strategies that set them apart. Learn how collaborations, smart retail strategy, and a passion for culture turn a store into a hub for community, creativity, and authenticity.

00:00 – Introduction: Obsession behind Rooted
02:14 – Early influences: Growing up in Chicago and the product obsession
03:14 – Transition from product to people-focused mindset
04:15 – Staff philosophy: Selling relationships, not products
05:06 – Building trust and guiding customers through life stages
06:12 – Personalized buying and connection-driven inventory
07:11 – Customers as brand advocates
07:56 – Overcoming rejection in retail and persistence in entrepreneurship
10:12 – Networking in NYC and forming key connections (Extra Butter)
11:31 – Early business planning and vision
12:15 – Barriers to entry with major brands like Nike & Adidas
14:01 – Tenacity and connections as keys to success
15:06 – Acting as micro community marketers for big brands
16:22 – Rooted’s unique positioning in Nashville culture
19:10 – Building a sanctuary for creative communities
21:17 – Coaching staff on relationship-building
22:16 – Retail expansion: From first location to The Gulch
24:39 – Acquiring and renovating flagship store
26:22 – Strategic positioning near established brands
28:16 – Allocation strategy and managing multiple locations
32:05 – Notable collaborations: Titans, local brands, creative impact
35:20 – Hand-painted items & the value of authenticity
36:27 – Collaborations driving awareness and legitimacy
38:18 – Limited releases and cross-brand community impact
39:23 – Rooted Cafe: Concept, community, and approachability
41:15 – Inspiration from global cafe culture
43:14 – Using space efficiently and engaging customers