How do you test the marketplace’s perception of your brands?
I consistently test my brands’ perception through surveys to people outside of my immediate circle and I love getting the raw unfiltered perception from people who don’t have a personal direct tie to me. I love having the pure thoughts around products or services being offered. You need an open mind to make adjustments your business may need at the time.
What type of brand-creating entrepreneur are you?
I am the brand-creating entrepreneur type that is fearless and enjoys a new challenge. With every business that I have ownership in, my partners also understand that the magic happens outside of the comfort zone. We must challenge ourselves every day to eclipse the goals we set for ourselves in business.
Name two of your favorite brand “success-stories” that inspire you.
Two of my favorite brand “success-stories” that inspire me are:
My amazing wife Swin Cash-Canal, who grew up in a small town outside of Pittsburgh. She defied all odds to go on and win two NCAA Championships, three WNBA Championships, and two Olympic Gold Medals. Swin is now the highest-ranking African American female in the NBA. She is the VP of basketball operations and team development for the New Orleans Pelicans, all while being a mom of our two amazing boys, Syer Max Cash-Canal (8 months) and Saint Max Cash-Canal (4 years).
My second favorite is more a traditional term for the word “brand,” which is Pyer Moss. It was founded in 2013 as a men’s and womenswear, Black-owned fashion label. It is concerned with building a narrative that speaks about heritage and activism. My Haitian brother, Kerby Jean-Reymond, the founder and creator of Pyer Moss, became the first Black designer to officially show on the couture schedule. He is a true inspiration.
