The Uniformer

Hosted by theuniformer

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Uniformer, a podcast devoted to the companies, teams, and individuals who provide uniforms, image apparel, and equipment to hundreds of millions of workers across the world. We are the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors, the NAUMD.

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60 recent

September 10, 2026Episode 7239 min

The Uniformer Live: Neptune Uniforms — Old School, New World

Linda Cohen-Tobin, President of Neptune Uniforms & Equipment, joins The Uniformer to discuss how a legacy uniform dealer continues to thrive in an industry transformed by e-commerce, changing customer expectations, and increasing competition. Drawing on decades of experience serving law enforcement, first responders, transportation, and security organizations, Linda explains why exceptional personal service remains her company's greatest differentiator. The conversation explores the specialized world of Honor Guard and Class A uniforms, the craftsmanship required to fit and tailor ceremonial apparel, and why Neptune's team of expert seamstresses has become central to its reputation. Linda also shares her perspective on recruiting challenges facing public safety agencies, the impact of tariffs and supply chain disruptions, evolving purchasing habits, and how Neptune is embracing new technology while staying true to the values that built the business. It's an insightful discussion about balancing tradition with innovation—and why relationships still matter in today's uniform industry.

September 9, 2026Episode 7143 min

The Uniformer Live: Rocky Brands on NFPA Changes & Next-Generation Duty Boots

How do you build a duty boot that's lighter, stronger, and ready for the evolving needs of first responders and military personnel? In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Stuart Brooks, Sales Manager at Rocky Brands, for an in-depth conversation about the forces reshaping the footwear industry. Stuart shares the history of the family-founded company, how Rocky has grown into a global footwear manufacturer, and why maintaining U.S. manufacturing remains a strategic advantage. The discussion explores the latest NFPA certification updates for firefighting footwear, the proposed Boot Bill and its implications for Berry Amendment compliance, and the challenges manufacturers face when new regulations require product recertification and inventory transitions. Stuart also highlights the growing demand for lightweight, athletic-inspired duty footwear, the introduction of products like the Super Cop and Jump Boot Pro, advances in BOA lacing systems, and Rocky's newest Marine Corps-certified S2V boot. Along the way, he offers fascinating insights into product development, custom footwear for specialized agencies, and why boots often become some of the most meaningful pieces of equipment a professional will ever own. Whether you're a uniform distributor, public safety supplier, military outfitter, or simply interested in the evolution of performance footwear, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the innovation, craftsmanship, and market trends shaping the future of duty boots.

September 7, 2026Episode 7036 min

The Uniformer Live: BAMKO on the Convergence of Uniforms, Promotions & Brand Experience

Uniforms are becoming more than just what employees wear—they’re increasingly part of a company’s broader brand experience. In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Tony Schenk, Director of National Accounts at BAMKO, a division of Superior Group of Companies, about the growing convergence of uniforms, promotional products, and branded merchandise. Tony explains how companies are using everything from traditional uniform programs to limited seasonal apparel “drops” to strengthen branding, engage employees, and create a more consistent customer experience. The conversation explores BAMKO’s work across QSR, hospitality, transportation, industrial, and corporate markets; the difference between dress codes and true uniform programs; balancing custom apparel with stock products; safety and FR requirements; vendor consolidation; and why the most important question often isn’t “What product do you need?” but “What are you trying to accomplish?” Tony also shares trends he’s watching, including renewed interest in cotton and natural-feeling fabrics, the influence of retail and fashion on uniform design, and a move in promotional products away from inexpensive giveaways toward higher-quality products that make a lasting impact.

September 3, 2026Episode 6935 min

The Uniformer Live: CiCLO Technology and the Future of Biodegradable Synthetics

Synthetic textiles deliver durability and performance—but they also contribute to the growing problem of microplastic pollution. In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Chad Bolick, Director of Global Brand Sales at CiCLO Technology, about how biodegradable synthetic technology is being used to help address that challenge. Chad explains how CiCLO works as an additive in polyester, nylon, and polypropylene, enabling synthetic fibers to biodegrade more quickly when they end up in environments such as landfills, wastewater, soil, or seawater. The conversation also explores microfiber shedding, textile-to-textile recycling, traceability, sustainability claims, testing standards, emerging regulation, and the growing pressure on brands to address textile waste more holistically. They also discuss how the technology is being used across apparel, uniforms, hospitality, home textiles, and contract fabrics—and why the future of sustainability may depend not on a single solution, but on combining recycling, better materials, and technologies designed to reduce the long-term impact of textile pollution.

August 26, 2026Episode 6836 min

The Uniformer Live: LION & Elbeco on the Future of Public Safety Uniforms

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Christina Parise, Director of Product Management for Elbeco by LION, about how public safety uniforms are evolving to meet the real-world needs of the people who wear them. Christina shares how Elbeco’s long history and its combination with LION have strengthened the brand, while also giving an inside look at the technical detail behind modern law enforcement, fire, EMS, corrections, transit, and security uniforms. The conversation explores stretch fabrics, external ballistic carriers, wash-and-wear garments, female fit, tactical influences, and the challenge of balancing comfort, mobility, durability, and professional appearance. They also discuss Elbeco’s expansion into Class C and D tactical uniforms, the growth of its CX360 program, the award-winning Stretch Blouse Coat, and the development of a distinctive new uniform for the Atlanta Police Department for the FIFA World Cup. It’s a practical look at how customer feedback, fabric innovation, changing workplace expectations, and new performance demands are shaping the next generation of public safety uniforms.

August 20, 2026Episode 6737 min

The Uniformer Live: Tough Duck on the Future of Safer, Smarter Workwear

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Gavin Rich, President of Tough Duck, to talk about how one of North America’s long-standing workwear companies is adapting to a changing market. Gavin shares the story of Tough Duck’s family roots, dating back to 1939, and how the company evolved from traditional workwear into a major player in high-visibility safety apparel. The conversation explores the growing role of workplace safety regulations, the shift toward lighter, more comfortable and better-fitting garments, and the importance of innovation in fabrics, cooling technology, stretch, durability and fit. They also discuss Tough Duck’s expanding women’s line, the need for true size inclusivity in uniform programs, and why quality and longevity remain central to the company’s value proposition. Gavin offers insight into global manufacturing, explaining why overseas production today is increasingly about access to advanced technology and innovation, not just lower costs. The episode also touches on sustainability, family-business succession, ERP systems, AI, authenticity and the challenge of staying ahead in a fast-moving industry. A wide-ranging conversation about safety, workwear, family business and the future of the uniform industry.

August 18, 2026Episode 6643 min

The Uniformer Live: Read's Uniforms on Growing Through Service & Technology

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with David George, Vice President of Sales at Read's Uniforms, to talk about the growth of a dealer-distributor that has expanded from a single medical scrub store into a multi-state uniform business serving public safety, medical, industrial, and other markets. David shares how Read's built its public safety business one department at a time, why strong salespeople and manufacturer partnerships matter, and how the company balances retail stores, field sales, private web stores, mobile shows, and a growing B2C medical business. The conversation also explores acquisitions, inventory management, cash flow, technology, AI, and the operational discipline required to scale a uniform distribution business. It's a practical look at what it takes to grow as an independent uniform dealer while maintaining the relationships and service that keep customers coming back.

August 14, 2026Episode 6538 min

The Uniformer Live: Headwear USA from Factory to Front Line

In this episode of The Uniformer Live, Rick Levine sits down with Nik Mirich, President and Partner of Headwear USA, for a wide-ranging conversation about the changing role of headwear across the uniform, workwear, safety, and promotional products markets. Nik shares the story of Headwear USA’s growth from its Australian roots into a global operation spanning North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and explains why the company has built its business around being a true supplier to distributors rather than selling directly to end users. The conversation explores global sourcing, tariffs, skilled manufacturing, ethical sourcing, sustainability, and the growing compliance demands facing suppliers. Nik also discusses how retail trends are influencing uniform headwear, from higher-end decoration and branded details to performance features such as perforated hydrophobic fabrics and sun-protection products. Rick and Nik also look at the increasing crossover between the promotional products and uniform industries, the importance of perceived value, and how API integration, digital platforms, and more connected supply chains are changing the way distributors source, decorate, and deliver products. It’s a practical look at how headwear is evolving from a basic uniform accessory into a performance product, branding tool, safety element, and increasingly important part of the overall uniform program.

August 8, 2026Episode 6442 min

The Uniformer Live: JA Uniforms on Hospitality, U.S. Manufacturing & Innovation

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Alexander “Alex” Arencibia, Founder and Owner of JA Uniforms, for a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, hospitality apparel, U.S. manufacturing, and the evolving demands of modern uniform programs. Alex shares the unlikely story of how JA Uniforms grew from making simple restaurant aprons into a recognized hospitality uniform specialist serving hotels across North America and the Caribbean. He discusses the company’s commitment to domestic manufacturing, why customization remains essential to hotel branding, and how JA balances stock programs with custom design to give properties both consistency and individuality. The conversation also explores heat management and performance apparel, including lighter-weight fabrics, stretch, ventilation, recycled materials, and the growing expectation that uniforms deliver comfort without sacrificing appearance. Alex also explains why flexibility, product continuity, employee relationships, vendor partnerships, and simply listening to the customer have been central to JA Uniforms’ success. It’s a candid look at the business, creativity, and problem-solving behind hospitality uniforms—and how JA Uniforms continues to adapt while staying focused on the people who wear, make, and depend on them.

August 8, 2026Episode 6332 min

The Uniformer Live: Inside Modern Uniform Manufacturing with Thames Apparel

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Lisa Li, Creative Director for Thames Apparel International, about the changing demands of modern uniform and corporate apparel programs. Lisa discusses the growing importance of comfort, performance, sustainability, fit, and fashion-forward design, along with innovations in stretch fabrics, wrinkle resistance, PFAS-free finishes, and recycled materials. The conversation also explores Thames Apparel’s use of AI-assisted pattern making, bespoke and made-to-measure production, replenishment challenges, global sourcing, supply chain shifts, traceability, digital product passports, and the growing role technology may play in bringing more apparel manufacturing back to the United States. Lisa also shares how uniform design is increasingly influencing—and being influenced by—the broader fashion and lifestyle markets.