In this week's episode, we venture to Brighton to meet the luminary of a distinctive musical niche, Chap Hop. Jim Burke, known as Mr B the Gentleman Rhymer, has masterfully blended gentlemanly pursuits with banjolele-infused hip hop. As customary, we delve into his background, tracing his journey from a musically gifted youth to stumbling into the world of rap, and the startling realization that tweed may not be the most practical stage attire. Supported by his faithful supporters—the Biscuits—and fueled by an unyielding creative drive, Jim shares insights into his prolific output and newfound fascination with siren suits. And, in a twist of fate, I may have accidentally started a beef with the delightful Will and Marie from Old Town (also esteemed friends of the podcast). 

You can find Mr B the Gentleman Rhymer on the web at gentlemanrhymer.com

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

Step into the world of heritage menswear with this week's guest, Yuki Matsuda, the mastermind behind MEG Company and renowned brands Monitaly, Yuketen, Epperson Mountaineering, and Chamola. From his roots in Osaka to his early passion for vintage apparel, Yuki shares his remarkable journey of being thrust into the heart of the industry as a teenager sent to the US to source stock. Tune in as we unravel the tale of persistence, innovation, and unwavering passion that has cemented Yuki Matsuda's status as a true legend among aficionados of premium menswear.

You can find Yuki's work at yuketen.com, eppersonmountaineering.com and chamulaoriginal.com, and on Instagram as @yuketenbymegco, @monitalybymegco, @chamulabymegco and @eppersonmountaineering

@yuketenbymegco
@monitalybymegco
@chamulabymegco
@eppersonmountaineering

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

It's no secret that podcast enthusiasts often form a connection with their favourite hosts. Granting someone access to your lugholes for hours on end, it's quite natural that over time a lopsided friendship of sort occurs. After immersing myself in Jeremy Kirkland's "Blamo!" podcast for countless hours over the years, I extended an invitation for him to join me on Garmology. Our conversation delves into Jeremy's unpredictable career journey, spanning from being in a band to music promotion to fashion entrepreneurship and celebrity styling, along with discussions on evolving tastes, the influence of social media and influencers, and the symbiotic relationship between brands and free advertising. Plus, I attempt to unravel the mystery of "getting fits off." Tune in for a delightful and insightful session!

You can find Jeremy and Blamo! on the web as blamopod.com and on Instagram as @blamopodcast

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

Buckle up for a journey through the untamed landscapes of Sussex as we sit down with Jonathan Kelly, the cheeky chap behind Sussex Tweed. Best brew a large pot as this episode is a long one. Join us as we delve into Jonathan's transformation from a burnt-out commuter to a connoisseur of exquisite tweed caps. Discover the allure of weaving yarn and the irresistible pull of dreams intertwined with the rhythmic clatter of looms.

Hold onto your seat for a thrilling road trip from the vibrant streets of Brighton to the rugged shores of Stornoway, all aboard a trusty Land Rover navigating treacherous conditions. Experience the exhilaration of restoring dusty old Hattersley looms to their former glory with the aromatic touch of paraffin.

But wait, there's more! Dive into Jonathan's enchanting tales of growing up in Ireland, where chance encounters led him to share a stage with none other than U2. And yes, expect a sprinkle of colourful language along the way – consider it an education for the uninitiated.

So grab your favourite mug, and settle in, while we tell stories that weave together the threads of adventure, passion, and the timeless artistry of craftsmanship.

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

This week on the podcast, we venture to Germany for an engaging conversation with Philipp Maertens from Taktonik. Taktonik specializes in crafting bags and other products from upcycled army surplus materials. Philipp shares how his fascination with creating was ignited by the discovery of shiny trousers fashioned from airmail bags. We delve into Philipp's unique approach of weaving narratives through the amalgamation of materials sourced from diverse origins, including his process of repurposing metal zips from G-suits. The discussion also explores the rich history of camouflage and the fascinating intricacies behind silk escape maps. We touch upon the power of social media in connecting individuals with shared passions globally and the significance of upcycling highly specific military gear in sustainability efforts. And of course, we couldn't forget to discuss the experience of meeting your idols.

You can find  Philip and Taktonik on the web  as taktonik.de and on Instagram as @taktonik

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

🎙️ Embark on a riveting journey through the tapestry of time with Sofi Thanhauser, professor and author of "Worn - A People's History of Clothing," as we unravel the stories woven into the fibres of our attire. Delve into the historical implications on society and the technological evolution of clothing, unearthing unexpected insights that might reshape your perspective. Plus, discover the intriguing world of the "Dumptique" and the art of thrifted Norwegian sweaters in Budapest – because fashion history is full of surprises!

You can find Sofi's website and info about "Worn" on the web here.

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

Tragically Chris died in a kayaking accident just weeks after recording this episode. Hence a bonus repost in memory of Christopher and to celebrate that his monumental work, the website "Clothes on film" is back online. Se link in episode notes for the updated address.

🎬✨ Dive into the fascinating world where clothing steals the spotlight on the silver screen! In a cinematic rendezvous, I sat down with Christopher Laverty, the brilliant mind behind "Fashion in Film" and the Clothes on Film website. Together, we unravel the magic when costumes transcend mere background and take centre stage, exploring how Guy Ritchie's films exemplify this phenomenon. Join us for a captivating chat that goes beyond anorak-level expertise to celebrate the transformative power of fashion in cinema. 🕵️‍♂️👗

You can find Christopher on Instagram as @christopherlaverty, and on the web as clothesonfilm.net

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

🎄✨ Join us for a festive wrap-up as Shaun, Jon, and I take a break to discuss everything from current male fashions and best buys to socks, engineer boots, and sourcing clothes from unconventional places. In this candid and lengthy conversation, we dive into weird avenues like affordability and seasonal colour analysis, sharing memorable experiences and more. It's like overhearing three guys having a conversation free of prying ears – you're invited to pry as we unravel the threads of style, sustainability, and unique fashion finds! 🗣️👕

Featuring Shaun Brown and Jon Fowler, aka @These_Rough_Notes and @HeavyJon on Instagram.

Early reviews of this episode are mixed, so your listening pleasure is uncertain:

• Tortoise Trends commented, "We appreciate the slow pace of the proceedings".
• VintageWear Weekly gushingly praised "At least they don't mention whiffy vintage garms this time!"
• Giffnock Advertiser noted, "Local celeb Shaun gets properly stuck into the proceedings and we love it."
• Stationary Engine Magazine said, "These guys sound like our kind of people.“
• Teddy Bear Times said, "Gets a bit boring in the middle then better at the end.“
• The Country Smallhold said, “They dress for the occasion but are they up to it?”
• Business of Fashion stated, "Clearly our days of shilling for the man are over, all hail the three kings."
• Gentleman's Quarterly: "A laidback and comfortably paced chat perfect for accompanying the preparation of sprouts".
• Amateur Carp Fishing Monthly said, “ It’s not really our thing.“
• Carnoustie Guide & Gazette said, “It’s a podcast with men talking.“
• From Twitter @JeansAndSheux "The scene appreciates the respect shown and offers a Peroni in return."
• Motorway Lovers Weekly “Once again there’s no mention of the M45 “
• Pitti Peacocks Annual whinges "We fail to appreciate the loathing of our beloved monk-strap shoes. This is dismal."
• The Guardian pontificated "We'd be sure to recommend Garmology if we'd heard of it."
• The Brighton Bugle blethered "Jon is clearly one of our finest local citizens and we really should shower him with appreciation."
• Tønsberg Blad skriver "Jasså, så han holder ennå på? Kanskje på tide å rydde forsiden igjen..."
•  

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

🎙️ Lend an ear to my conversation with Alice Sherwood, author of "Authenticity: Reclaiming Reality in a Counterfeit Culture," as we explore the world of counterfeit goods, unravel the secrets of brand complicity, discuss the art of storytelling in marketing, decode the incremental nature of fashion design, dissect influencer culture, and embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind the tuxedo's inventor – Yves St Laurent or Ralph Lauren?

"Authenticity: Reclaiming Reality in a Counterfeit Culture" is available from all usual sources, or direct from HarperCollins here

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.

🎙️ Brace yourselves this week as we welcome Neil Christopher, the enigmatic force behind ARN Mercantile and a sought-after figure in the clothing industry. Join us as we unravel Neil's unconventional career journey, diving into the ethics of the industry and the winds of change it desperately needs. From crafting quality clothes to minimizing environmental footprints, we expose the secrets of the trade. Neil spills the beans on the not-so-great evolution of Red Wing soles, tackles the ever-relevant fast fashion dilemma, and navigates the maze of true sustainability. 🌱👔

You can find Neil on Instagram as @arnmerc

Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can  buymeacoffee.com/garmology

Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.

Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.