The Fashion Geek Podcast

Ksenya Malina is an accomplished interior designer and decorator based in New York City, specializing in blending vintage and modern aesthetics to create unique, character-filled living spaces. With a deep focus on authenticity and thoughtful curation, Ksenya is known for her expertise in sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces and orchestrating interiors that truly reflect her clients’ personalities and lifestyles. As the founder of Time and Place Interiors, she’s helped countless young professionals elevate their home environments, making her the ideal guest to discuss the intersection of men’s fashion and interior design.

Jason Dorn is a professional shoe shiner, educator, and founder of shineyourdangshoes.com, with more than 20 years of experience in the shoe industry and a decade devoted exclusively to the art of shoe care. Based out of Denver, Colorado, Jason not only shines shoes for a living at Scissors and Scotch but also creates his own line of shoe care products and frequently hosts seminars on specialty topics like suede maintenance. His hands-on expertise and innovative approach to shoe care have redefined how enthusiasts and everyday people look after their footwear, making him the perfect person to unlock insider tips and elevate your shoe game.

Alessandro Ercolano is the founder of Originals, a boutique import firm dedicated to bringing handcrafted Italian spirits to the United States. With a passion for authenticity and craftsmanship, Alessandro specializes in discovering small batch local distillers in Italy and introducing their exceptional products to a new market. His deep connection to his Italian roots and dedication to quality make him an ideal guest to enlighten us about the nuance and charm of small batch spirits.

Justin Fitzpatrick is the founder and co-owner of J. Fitzpatrick Footwear. With a strong background in shoe design and manufacturing, Justin has established a reputable shoe brand known for its classic welted shoes with a bold twist. Justin also runs "The Shoe Snob" blog, where he shares his extensive knowledge and passion for the men's high-end shoe industry, further solidifying his credibility in the world of footwear.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The differences between Blake Stitch and Goodyear welted shoes and why these constructions matter in terms of quality and longevity.
- How Justin Fitzpatrick's unique approach to shoe design distinguishes his brand in a competitive marketplace.
- Insights into the evolving trends in men's footwear, including the shift from classic shoes to sneakers and back.

Aleks Musika is the creative director of Musika New York, a luxury menswear brand highly regarded for its bespoke designs and innovative approach to tailoring. With experience working at Tom Ford and an extensive portfolio catering to elite clientele, including celebrities, athletes, and high-profile professionals, Alek's expertise and passion for fashion make him an authority in the world of sophisticated menswear.
In this episode, you'll learn,
-The intricate process behind designing personalized clothing for diverse client personalities.
-The balance between standing out and blending in within the fashion industry.
-How social media influences modern fashion trends and the concept of "future classics" in luxury attire.

Rashad Johnson is a bespoke tailor based in Washington, DC, providing both alterations and bespoke garments for clients domestically and abroad. With extensive travel experience to fashion capitals like Tokyo and Florence, Rashad brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge in global men's fashion. His credibility is further solidified by his appearances at prestigious events like Pitti Uomo in Italy, his alignment with sartorial traditions, and his keen eye for both vintage Americana and high fashion aesthetics.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The key differences between Japan and Italy as fashion destinations for men, and how each country caters to different fashion needs.
- How to maximize your shopping experience in Tokyo's vintage market and Florence's high-end stores, with insider tips from Rashad's personal adventures.
- Why fashion is an essential form of nonverbal self-expression and how Rashad's passionate journey in bespoke tailoring can inspire your own style evolution.

Carl Goldberg is a renowned custom shirt maker who began his business, CEGO Custom Shirtmakers, in 1983. With over 30 years of experience in creating bespoke shirts, Carl has crafted garments for Broadway productions, Hollywood films, and discerning clients around the world. His expertise in hand-cutting and sewing, along with his understanding of complex fabrics and patterns, makes him the perfect guest to delve into the art and science of custom shirtmaking.
In this episode, you'll learn,
- The intricate process and timelines involved in creating a custom shirt from scratch.
- How collaborations with design students from prestigious fashion schools like FIT and Parsons enhance the garment-making process.
- The unique challenges and solutions involved in working with vintage fabrics and executing rush orders for the entertainment industry.

Reginald Ferguson is a men's fashion consultant born and raised in New York City, with a deep passion for helping men become fashion confident. His extensive experience in the fashion industry, coupled with his unique perspective as a New Yorker, makes him the perfect person to guide us through the history and cultural significance of the Nike Cortez.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The historical evolution of the Nike Cortez, from a track runner's shoe to a cultural icon.
- The intimate relationship between the Nike Cortez and the hip-hop culture of the 1980s.
- How a classic sneaker can transcend subcultures and maintain its relevance in contemporary fashion.

Gil Vazquez is the president and executive director of the Keith Haring Foundation, dedicated to preserving and continuing Keith Haring's legacy. Growing up in Spanish Harlem and transferring to Nevin Street for high school, Gil's journey has been deeply influenced by Haring's artwork and ethos. As someone who witnessed the transformative power of Haring's chalk drawings in New York, Gil's insights into street art and fashion make him the perfect guest to discuss Haring's lasting impact on art, fashion, and society.
In this episode, you'll learn,
- How Keith Haring's work has bridged the gap between street art and fashion, influencing brands like Carhartt and Timberland.
- The strategies and considerations behind licensing Haring's artwork, ensuring collaborations remain true to his legacy.
- The profound impact Keith Haring has had on hip hop culture, exemplified through partnerships with icons like Run DMC and Public Enemy's Chuck D.

Will Roberson is a fashion designer from Harlem, renowned for his unique and custom hat designs that have caught the attention of celebrities like Michael J. Fox, Brooke Shields, and the late Alpo Martinez AKA Paid in Full. With a background in the music business and a seamless transition into fashion, Will has made a name for himself as a game-changer in the industry, particularly known for his luxurious and one-of-a-kind creations.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- How Will transitioned from creating elaborate army coats to becoming a celebrated hat designer.
- The significance of Harlem culture in shaping Will's fashion sense and brand.
- Key advice on how to elevate your personal style and make unforgettable fashion statements.

Alec Zaballero is an esteemed architect and partner at TPG Architecture, with a profound interest in watches. Alec’s passion extends to his role in the Harvard Club Watch Collectors and Enthusiasts, where he leads a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. With his comprehensive knowledge of menswear and horology, Alec is uniquely positioned to discuss the intersection of fashion and watch culture, making him the ideal guest to explore the relevancy of wearing a watch in the 21st century.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The significance of watches beyond telling time and their role as personal totems and cultural symbols.
- Insights into the burgeoning world of micro watch brands and how they are shaping the current landscape of horology.
- How to use fashion and accessories to convey the right signals about oneself and combat common age-related assumptions.
So do you own a watch? Do you integrate watches into your own fashion? What type of watches do you like? Leave a comment below.

Simon Brooking is a seasoned expert in the world of Scotch whisky, serving as a senior ambassador of Scotch heritage for Beam Suntory. With his extensive knowledge and passion for Scotch, Simon has become a respected authority in the whisky industry, showcasing his expertise through engaging discussions and educational experiences.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The intricate processes involved in the maturation of Laphroaig whiskey, including the unique cask types used and the flavor profiles they impart.
- The significance of regional influences on whiskey production, such as the impact of Islay's peat and seaweed on the smoky and maritime qualities of Scotch whisky.
- The art of whiskey tasting and appreciation, including tips on nosing, tasting, and pairing whiskey with regional foods for a heightened sensory experience.