The Uniformer

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Anil Kariwala, founder and CEO of Kariwala Industries, for a conversation that reaches far beyond manufacturing uniforms. Together they explore how uniforms create psychological safety, why people should never be viewed as "resources," and how purpose-driven businesses can unlock human potential.

Anil shares his philosophy on leadership, work-life balance, self-actualization, sustainability, AI, and the future of workwear while offering a refreshing global perspective shaped by nearly four decades in the industry.

Whether you're a uniform supplier, business leader, or simply interested in building organizations where people thrive, this episode will challenge the way you think about work, purpose, and the role uniforms play in bringing people together.

What if a 60-second body scan could transform the way uniform programs are designed, issued, and managed?

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Ryan Harpur and Jamie Park from Bodd to explore how the company's innovative SizeMatch technology is changing the future of uniform sizing.

Ryan explains how Bodd creates a 3D digital twin of each wearer, capturing hundreds of body measurements in just one minute to recommend the correct garment size. The discussion covers how digital sizing eliminates the inefficiencies of manual measuring, reduces returns, improves employee satisfaction, and helps organizations better manage inventory across large uniform programs.

Jamie shares his journey from Brooks Brothers to Bodd and recounts the award-winning United Airlines uniform rollout, where more than 57,000 employees were scanned worldwide. The project demonstrated how accurate sizing technology can streamline fittings, reduce excess inventory, lower return rates, and deliver significant cost savings while creating a better experience for employees.

The conversation then looks beyond uniforms as Ryan introduces Bodd's next-generation scanner, which expands into health and wellness applications including body composition, vital signs, range of motion, grip strength, vision screening, and workforce analytics. Together, they discuss how body data could reshape garment design, inventory planning, employee wellness initiatives, and the future of workplace safety.

Whether you're involved in uniforms, apparel technology, or workforce innovation, this episode offers a fascinating look at how digital body scanning is evolving from a sizing tool into a powerful platform for improving both operational efficiency and the employee experience.

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Kristi Hinton, Business Development Sales Manager for Licensed Contracts at Workwear Outfitters, about the unique world of OEM and licensed uniform programs. Kristi explains how Workwear Outfitters partners with leading automotive, equipment, and service brands to create approved apparel collections that protect brand identity while giving distributors, laundries, and resellers the opportunity to serve local dealerships and franchise locations.

The conversation explores how modern workwear is evolving through innovative fabrics, improved comfort, mechanical stretch, moisture management, and home-launder-friendly technologies without sacrificing durability. Kristi also discusses the collaborative design process behind licensed programs, the growing importance of women's fit, the impact of tariffs and supply chain pressures, and how the rise of electric vehicles is creating new demand for flame-resistant apparel. Whether you supply industrial uniforms, dealership programs, or branded workwear, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the industry's most specialized and rapidly evolving market segments.

From industrial laundering and high-performance fabrics to personalization and supply chain compliance, decoration has become one of the most technical aspects of today's uniform industry.

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine talks with Haziel Mitchell, Commercial Director for North America at Supacolor, about how heat transfer technology is changing the way uniforms are branded. Haziel explains the differences between heat transfers, embroidery, and screen printing, why selecting the right transfer for each fabric matters, and how modern decoration can withstand demanding industrial wash environments.

The discussion also explores color accuracy for major brands, decorating soft-shell and technical garments, reflective and high-visibility applications, sustainability, RSL and OEKO-TEX compliance, and emerging technologies such as UV security markings and advanced personalization. Whether you manufacture uniforms, decorate apparel, or supply workwear and public safety garments, this episode offers valuable insight into the innovations shaping the future of garment decoration.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.