We recently connected with Jesse Ford and have shared our conversation below.
Jesse, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Running my own business has been an incredible learning experience. One key lesson I’ve embraced is the importance of standing out by offering something truly unique. In a saturated market like underwear, every launch needs to be distinctive, fun, and accessible to capture attention. Collaboration has also been a cornerstone of my success—partnering with others allows me to amplify my brand’s reach and connect with new audiences. Networking and building relationships are essential; the more people you meet, the more opportunities you create to showcase your product and grow your business.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My name is Jesse Ford, and I design lingerie and underwear for men, in addition to running a skincare brand.
My journey into the underwear industry began with modeling and creating influencer content for other brands. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic when New York was in lockdown, I had a moment of realization in my apartment, many of the underwear products I wore weren’t comfortable and were often overpriced. That sparked the idea to create my own line. Leveraging my network of photographers, models, and industry connections, I brought my first two products to life and successfully promoted them.
What sets my brand apart is a commitment to quality, comfort, and affordability. I’m proud to create products that are not only accessible but also attainable. I made a promise to myself to avoid overpricing my collections, ensuring that everyone can have a piece of Jesse Ford in their wardrobe. My vision is inclusive—you might see a celebrity wearing my designs on Instagram and your best friend rocking them at the club.
What I’m most proud of is the life I’ve built for myself. I’ve transformed from being someone modeling for other brands to owning a company that represents my vision. One of the most fulfilling moments has been seeing people outside of the United States wear Jesse Ford. What once felt like an impossible dream has now become a reality, and watching my brand reach a global audience is an achievement I cherish deeply
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are patience, risk-taking, and that unmistakable New York hustle.
Patience is crucial when striving for success. It doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a process that requires consistent effort and the determination to prove what sets you apart from everyone else. Staying focused and committed, even when results take time, has been a defining part of my journey.
Risk-taking has also played a significant role in my growth. Putting your creations out into the world is always a leap of faith. You hope people will connect with your vision, love what you’ve built, and invest in it. From allocating resources to exploring collaborations, every step comes with risks, but the rewards can far outweigh the challenges if you stay confident in your purpose.
As someone born and raised in New York, I embody the city’s natural hustle and drive. The fast-paced energy of New York is part of who I am, and it pushes me to always aim higher. Here, ambition and resilience are a way of life, and that mindset fuels my desire to create, succeed, and constantly move forward.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
A book that has been instrumental in my personal and professional development is “The Structure of Success” by Patrick Esposito. It’s a practical framework designed to help entrepreneurs build their businesses more effectively. My dad gave me this book during a trip to Chicago, and I couldn’t have picked a better time to dive into it than on the plane ride.
What I love most about this book is how it breaks down the principles of creating success while minimizing the risk of failure for small businesses. It offers actionable insights, from making smarter decisions to learning from the experiences of other business owners. Understanding the journeys of others—their successes and their setbacks—is invaluable. It’s a reminder that success leaves clues, and the more you absorb from others, the better equipped you are to carve your own path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Byjesseford.com
- Instagram: @Mr.jesseford
Image Credits
Ashton Gove is the photographer
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
