Today we’d like to introduce you to Russell Davis.
Hi Russell, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Unlike most career firefighters who have part-time jobs, I harbored a different dream-to be a business owner. The spark that ignited this dream came one Christmas when our captain surprised the crew with a unique gift- a drink koozie made from a retired fire hose. This gift planted a seed of an idea in my mind. ‘Could this be improved? Could it be embroidered on a hat?’ The very next day, I took a leap of faith, bought an embroidery machine, and set up a company in a spare bedroom of my home in Anderson, SC. And thus, the journey of our unique product, the Hose Hat, began. Five years later, we’ve sold thousands of these innovative hats across the country.
Let’s dig deeper into the story – has it been an easy path, and if not, what challenges have you overcome?
Is there such a thing as a ‘smooth road’ in business? I’ve come to learn that struggles are an integral part of the journey. No one can fully prepare you for the challenges of running a business. But amidst the difficulties, there’s always an opportunity to learn and grow. The business world is a tough one, but the drive to build something bigger than yourself makes the tough times worthwhile.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a career, I’ve been a full-time firefighter for 12 years. In 2019, we introduced the Fire Service to our Trademarked Hose Hat, marking the birth of our company, West Broad Apparel. Over the past five years, we’ve created a unique online shopping experience, allowing users to fully customize their Hose Hat. Looking ahead, we’re not just stopping at hats. We’re planning to expand into the uniform space for first responders. We believe we have a solution that will revolutionize the uniform experience in emergency services, alleviating the common headache of uniforms for most departments.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
I would not be here today without the help and support of my team. My original business partner, mentor, brother fireman, and now Manager of Operations, Joe Crawford, has been along for this entire journey. Another notable team member is Mr. Charlie Crawford. Charlie started with us three years ago as a part-time hat maker and has worked his way up to marketing director. This has been a team effort over the last 5 years, and I am forever grateful to everyone who has played a role in our company.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.westbroadapparel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westbroadapparel/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westbroadapparel
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@westbroadapparelcompany
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@westbroadapparel
