From Navy SEAL to CEO: How Born Primitive Became a 9-Figure Apparel Brand | Bear Handlon
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Show Notes
#533 What started as a niche compression short created in a neighbor’s living room has grown into a global nine-figure apparel brand! In this inspiring episode hosted by Kirsten Tyrrel, Bear Handlon, co-founder of Born Primitive, shares his incredible journey from Navy SEAL and failed entrepreneur to building a thriving business that now spans activewear, performance footwear, tactical gear, and more. Bear dives into the early hustle, why he didn’t take a salary for six years, how bootstrapping shaped their success, and the moment their sports bra changed everything. He also shares hard-won lessons about product development, inventory risk, customer service, and the strategic use of lines of credit. Plus, hear how his company paid off $11 million in veteran medical debt — and why staying mission-driven matters. This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone chasing an entrepreneurial dream!
What we discuss with Bear:
+ Origin of Born Primitive apparel
+ Bootstrapping after a failed business
+ Building while serving in the Navy
+ Reinvesting profits for six years
+ Early sales through CrossFit events
+ Product expansion from shorts to shoes
+ Lessons on giving away equity
+ Scaling with Meta ads and tactical gear
+ Paying off $11M in veteran medical debt
+ Customer service as a growth strategy
Thank you, Bear!
Check out Born Primitive at BornPrimitive.com.
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