
Masters of Scale Daymond John, Part 1: How to partner like a shark
Mar 15, 2022
Daymond John, founder of FUBU and original 'shark' on Shark Tank, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Queens to building a billion-dollar brand. He emphasizes the power of authentic partnerships, recounting how he collaborated with bouncers and LL Cool J to shape FUBU's identity. Daymond discusses strategic marketing through celebrity endorsements, innovative advertising, and the significance of community engagement. He also explores the challenges of funding and scaling a business, illustrating how genuine relationships drive success.
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Van Business Challenges
- Daymond John's dollar van business faced challenges like lack of credit and legal issues.
- These roadblocks highlighted the importance of partnerships and resourcefulness.
Birth of FUBU
- High-end brands often neglected the hip-hop community's fashion needs.
- This inspired Daymond John to create FUBU, a brand "for us, by us".
*From $20 to $800 *
- Daymond John's mom taught him how to sew after he spent $20 on a hat she could make for less.
- This led to him selling 80 handmade hats for $800 in one hour.

