In episode 33 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, I speak with Hayley Santell, the Founder of MADI Apparel about creating an ethical fashion brand using American manufacturing, giving back, and empowering women affected by domestic violence.
I had the great opportunity to sit down and chat with Hayley at MADI HQ here in Kansas City. Hayley wanted to symbolize how vulnerable women can feel when they don’t have access to new, clean underwear, so she decided to take the leap in 2012 and start MADI Apparel after learning underwear is the most requested item at most domestic violence shelters and sexual assault clinics in the United States.
MADI Apparel is a women’s undergarment brand with the dedication to Make a Difference domestically and globally. MADI is founded upon the principles of American manufacturing, self-sustaining fabrics/packaging and socially conscious global impact through underwear donations.
MADI does an amazing job in all aspects of their eco-system. The most impressive part of this eco-system is taking the time to develop a domestic manufacturing relationship. American made fashion has long been outsourced by major brands, who actually have the ability to set up domestic production, but choose not to do so due to profit margins and pressure from stock holders. It is so refreshing and exciting to see MADI’s approach out the gate to take on domestic manufacturing and impact local lives within her own community.
