Episode #41: The Journey to Creating Inclusive Kids' Apparel
Date: April 8, 2025
Duration: 17:24
Jeff Bender is the founder of Lion + Owl, a youth clothing company aimed at creating comfortable and inclusive clothing for children. A few years ago, Jeff teamed up with partners and created the company that is looking to redefine kids’ apparel.
Jeff shares the inspiration behind starting Lion + Owl, spurred by his experiences with his own children’s preferences and needs, including considerations for gender-diverse clothing. The discussion covers the unique features of Lion + Owl clothing, such as a tagless design, soft seams, and sensory-friendly materials, and the brand’s commitment to true gender-neutral sizing. Jeff also highlights the challenges and joys of starting a clothing line and his ultimate vision of making a meaningful impact by providing kids with clothes that enhance their confidence and comfort.
Apparelist podcast listeners are encouraged to connect with Jeff for further engagement and collaboration.
Lion + Owl Podcast Episode Timestamps
00:19 – Meet Jeff Bender: Founder of Lion + Owl
01:01 – The Inspiration Behind Lion + Owl
02:50 – Unique Features of the Company’s Clothing
06:55 – Challenges in Creating Inclusive Apparel
14:13 – The Future Vision for Lion + Owl
15:41 – How to Connect with Jeff
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