Guerrilla Marketing and Hemp's Sustainable Future: Insights from HempSmith Clothing

HempAware Radio

Welcome to HempAware Radio, where we're diving into the heart of the hemp industry with a special guest, Arlo Estill from HempSmith Clothing. In this episode, we explore the unique entrepreneurial journey of Arlo, who took the reins of HempSmith to honor his late brother Zafer's legacy.

Broadcasting from Pittsboro, North Carolina, HempSmith offers durable and stylish hemp apparel, including hand-dyed and printed clothing that everyone is buzzing about.

Our discussion with Arlo covers everything from innovative marketing strategies that defy convention, like word-of-mouth and community events, to the profound environmental and health benefits of hemp-based materials.

oin us as we delve into hemp's rich history, its challenges, and its promising future alongside Arlo's vision for sustainable growth through hemp in construction and beyond.T

une in to be inspired by how passion, personal relationships, and a focus on community can shape a thriving hemp business.

About the Host and Guest

Tyler Hemp is the dynamic host of Hempaware Radio, where he engages listeners with his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for hemp innovation. Known for his energetic "Hempisodes," Tyler is dedicated to empowering and enlightening his audience about the vast possibilities of hemp.

With a keen focus on eco-friendly lifestyle choices, he frequently collaborates with pioneers in the industry, such as Arlo Estill of HempSmith Clothing.

This brand stands out for its creative fusion of style and sustainability, offering hemp apparel with unique designs through tie-dye, printing, and embroidery.

Tyler Hemp continues to inspire and inform, making significant strides in the hemp industry.

Key Topics we Covered in this Show

1. Host Introduction

• Introduction of the show "HempAware Radio"
• Guest introduction: Arlo Estill from HempSmith Clothing

2. HempSmith Clothing

• Location: Pittsboro, North Carolina
• Product offerings: Durable and stylish hemp clothing, including socks, hats, and t-shirts

Background on HempSmith

• Founded by Arlo's brother Zafer during high school in 2015
• Origin: Began with embroidering a hemp leaf on a t-shirt
• Continuation by Arlo after Zafer's passing in 2016
• Growth to a storefront location

3. Marketing Challenges in the Hemp Industry

• Difficulty in finding and engaging customers
• Skepticism towards conventional marketing strategies

HempSmith's Approach

• Reliance on word-of-mouth and organic growth
• Benefitting from physical location in Pittsboro
• Guerrilla marketing strategies: annual fashion shows, support for local artists

4. Event Participation and Community Involvement

• Pop-ups and music festivals like Shikori Grassroots
• Community-driven event experiences

5. Passion for Hemp Building Materials

• Hempcrete and hemp wood flooring discussed as solutions to environmental issues
• Potential to replace toxic traditional building materials

6. Sustainability and Environmental Discussion

• Hemp's role in reducing carbon output in construction
• Advocate for replacing petroleum-based materials

7. Economic Considerations and Support

• Disparity in government support for hemp industries
• Call for increased support to encourage sustainable practices

8. Entrepreneurial Challenges and Advice

• Importance of saying no and protecting one's energy
• Emphasis on focus and specialization to achieve impact

9. Arlo's Entrepreneurial Journey & Inspirations

• Family background in sustainable businesses
• Influence of parents’ involvement in biodiesel and nonprofit work

10. Personal Development and Business Success

• Training the mind and aligning beliefs with outcomes
• Personal mastery over technical marketing strategies

11. Historical Insights and Hemp Awareness

• Historical uses of hemp, e.g., Navy ropes and wagon covers
• Slogan to reintroduce hemp to public awareness

12. Future Exploration and Potential of Hemp

• Discussion on hemp's versatility in economy
• Role in creating the sustainable economy and reducing petroleum dependency

13. Conclusion and Audience Engagement

• Wrap-up by Tyler Hemp, seeking audience topics for future shows
• Positive sign-off from Tyler and appreciation of Arlo's insights