Episodes

  • Welcome Back: Red Wing Tradition Returns To Harrison's
    Nov 5 2025

    On today's episode, Kevin and Jed discuss the return of the Red Wing boot brand to to Harrison's retail stores, which is a significant development for the company. They provide insights into the history of Red Wing at Harrison's, the brand's popularity and reputation, and the strategic decision-making behind bringing it back.

    • Red Wing has a long-standing history with Harrison's, having been one of the first and only brands carried when the company started nearly 30 years ago.
    • The decision to stop carrying Red Wing a few years ago was a difficult one, as it was the brand that the company was founded on.
    • However, changes in Red Wing's management and the company's growth and expansion led to Red Wing approaching Harrison's to partner with them again.
    • Red Wing is seen as a prestigious and high-quality work boot brand, with a loyal customer base that prefers it over other options.
    • The return of Red Wing is seen as a testament to the success and reputation of Harrison's as a leading retailer in the Carolinas and the Southeast.

    The return of Red Wing to Harrison's stores is a significant development that highlights the company's position as a leading retailer in the Work Western lifestyle market. The podcast provides valuable insights into the strategic decision-making and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with prestigious brands like Red Wing.

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    15 mins
  • Exploring Work, Western, and Wow: The History and Future of Work at Harrison's
    Oct 29 2025

    This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of the "Work, Western, Wow" philosophy and the services offered by Harrison's. The discussion covers the evolution of the business, the importance of customer service, and the unique offerings that set Harrison's apart from its competitors. Today's podcast will focus on:

    Harrison's dominance in the work clothing and boots market, with a focus on providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service.

    The company's expansion into in-house embroidery and screen printing services, which has allowed them to better serve their customers and improve turnaround times.

    The mobile boot truck initiative, where Harrison's brings their products directly to customers' workplaces, offering convenience and personalized service.

    The emphasis on sizing and tailoring, with skilled seamstresses and tailors available to ensure a perfect fit for each customer.

    The importance of treating all customers, regardless of size or scale, with the same level of care and respect.

    The podcast highlights Harrison's commitment to providing exceptional customer service, innovative solutions, and a personalized experience for their clients. The company's focus on the "Work", "Western" and "WOW" aspects of their business demonstrates their dedication to meeting the diverse needs of their customers, from national corporations to small local businesses.

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    20 mins
  • Exploring Western Fashion with Rock and Roll Denim's Riata Marchant
    Oct 8 2025
    In this episode of the Work Western podcast, host Jed Blackwell is joined by Bonnie Blackwell and Riata Marchant to discuss the exciting world of Western fashion, focusing on the brands Panhandle Slim and Rock and Roll Denim. Riata shares her background in rodeo and how it led her to a career in Western fashion. The conversation explores the unique qualities of denim, the importance of family-owned businesses, and the evolving trends in Western wear, as well as the partnership between the brands and Harrison's store.
    • Riata has a strong background in rodeo and Western fashion.
    • Panhandle Slim has been around since 1946, while Rock and Roll Denim started in 2009.
    • Denim quality is crucial, with ring spun denim being a higher quality option.
    • Family-owned businesses foster a unique work environment and culture.
    • Men's denim trends show a preference for consistency and quality.
    • Western fashion trends are cyclical and influenced by past styles.
    • Inclusivity in sizing is becoming more important in Western fashion.
    • Rodeo culture significantly influences Western fashion choices.
    • The future of Western fashion includes retro styles and bold patterns.
    • Partnerships between family-run businesses can lead to mutual growth and success.
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    17 mins
  • Threads of Change: Inside the World of Direct Print and Embroidery
    Oct 1 2025
    In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, host Jed Blackwell discusses the intricacies of direct print and embroidery with Meredith Pyatte and Lindsey Oliver. They share their experiences transitioning to in-house production, the challenges of learning new skills, and the importance of customer service in their business. The conversation highlights the adaptability required in retail and the creative processes involved in design and production. Takeaways
    • The transition to in-house embroidery has been a significant learning process.
    • Attention to detail is crucial in embroidery and direct print.
    • Customer service is a key differentiator in their business model.
    • In-house production allows for quicker turnaround times for customers.
    • Learning new skills can be both fun and stressful.
    • Designing for direct print requires careful consideration of placement and size.
    • Flexibility and adaptability are essential in the retail environment.
    • Team dynamics play a vital role in executing new ideas and projects.
    • Creativity is important, but execution can be challenging.
    • The variety of tasks keeps the work engaging and dynamic.
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    11 mins
  • Brunt: Innovative Work Boots For Everyone
    Sep 24 2025
    In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, join Kevin Harrison, Jed Blackwell, and Bonnie Blackwell as they discuss the rise of Brunt, a workwear brand that has gained popularity for its innovative boot designs and effective social media marketing. They explore the brand's origins, customer experiences, and unique product features, emphasizing the positive feedback from users and the brand's commitment to quality. The conversation highlights the significance of Brunt in the workwear market and its potential for future growth. Takeaways
    • Brunt was born in a garage and has a unique company culture.
    • The brand has effectively utilized social media for marketing.
    • Customer feedback on Brunt products has been overwhelmingly positive.
    • Brunt boots are designed specifically for trade workers.
    • The innovative design allows for a single width that can be adjusted.
    • The quality of materials used in Brunt boots is high.
    • The brand's growth trajectory is impressive since its launch in 2020.
    • Retailers benefit from Brunt's unique sizing approach.
    • The hosts plan to bring Brunt clothing into their stores soon.
    • The partnership with Brunt is seen as mutually beneficial for both parties.
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    11 mins
  • Focusing on Account Sales, Customer Service, and Turning Customers Into Fans at Harrison's
    Sep 17 2025

    Join Jed Blackwell, Kate Harrison, and Dustin Pyatte this week in highlighting Harrison's commitment to exceptional customer service, its innovative approach to account sales, and the unique perspectives of its team, including:

    • The shift in customer service standards, with Work Western aiming to provide a level of personalized attention that is increasingly rare in the retail landscape.
    • The evolution of the account sales role, with Kate Harrison's position bridging the gap between public safety and work wear accounts.
    • The company-wide initiative to cross-train employees, empowering them to contribute to the account sales process and deliver a consistent customer experience.

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    15 mins
  • Flying High: Say Hello to Christina Eagle, Competitor on The Voice
    Sep 10 2025
    Christina Eagle's story is one of perseverance, faith, and a deep passion for music that has the potential to inspire and uplift others. Her journey from a small-town girl to a contestant on a national TV singing competition, and her current pursuit of her own musical aspirations, offer a compelling narrative that could resonate with a wide audience. By highlighting her unique experiences, insights, and artistic vision, a feature article on Christina Eagle could provide readers with an uplifting and insightful look into the life of a rising talent on the cusp of a breakthrough.

    • Christina Eagle's lifelong passion for singing, dating back to her childhood church performances
    • Her journey to appearing on "The Voice," including initial disappointment at 15 and perseverance to try again years later
    • The challenges and growth experienced during the month-long preparation period in Los Angeles before the blind audition
    • The intense emotions and adrenaline rush of the blind audition, culminating in Snoop Dogg turning his chair at the last moment
    • The post-show experience, including limited interaction with the other coaches but valuable support from Snoop Dogg's team
    • Christina's current focus on writing and releasing her own music, particularly a meaningful song honoring first responders
    • The sense of being on the "precipice" of a breakthrough, with Christina feeling ready to take the next step in her music career
    • Christina's openness about her past struggles with anxiety and her desire to use her platform to share the hope and love she has found in her faith
    • The challenges of navigating the Christian music industry versus the broader mainstream market, and the potential to reach a wider audience with meaningful, high-quality music
    • The behind-the-scenes insights into the production and emotional experience of a major TV singing competition like "The Voice"

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    34 mins
  • The Heart of Service: How Account Managers Support Our Everyday Heroes
    Sep 3 2025

    In this episode of the Work Western Podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell are joined by South Carolina Regional Account Manager Jess Blackwell to discuss the multifaceted role of account managers in public safety, emphasizing the importance of body armor, uniforms, and tailored services. They highlight the significance of building relationships with clients and the convenience of web stores in enhancing customer experience.



    Takeaways


    Account managers play a crucial role in managing contracts and uniforms for public safety departments.


    Body armor is essential for the safety of public safety personnel.


    Alterations and embroidery services are vital for ensuring uniforms fit well and meet specific needs.


    Web stores offer convenience for clients who may not have time to visit physical stores.


    Building relationships with clients fosters trust and enhances service quality.


    Effective communication is key to keeping clients informed about their orders.


    The importance of looking good in uniforms is emphasized for morale and confidence.


    Account managers are dedicated to making the lives of public safety personnel easier.


    Customer service is a core value, aiming to turn customers into fans.

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    23 mins