Dean Serratelli on 150 Years of Hatmaking, Family Legacy, and the Truth About the Industry
This week, we’re bringing you our sit-down with Dean Serratelli, owner of the Serratelli Hat Company in Newark, New Jersey.Dean gave us full access to the factory and sat down for an honest conversation about what it really takes to survive in the hat business—from navigating supplier relationships and protecting family legacy to how Serratelli builds hats from raw material to finished product.We talk history, quality, and the current state of the western wear industry. No fluff—just real answers from a fifth-generation hatmaker still doing it the right way.If you’ve ever wanted to know what separates a real cowboy hat from the rest, this one’s for you.
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1:18:41
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1:18:41
Justin Biltonen: 3 Doors Down Bassist, Acclaimed Country Artist, and Western Jewelry Maker
In this episode, we sit down with Justin Biltonen—best known as the bass player for multi-platinum rock band 3 Doors Down. But that’s just part of the story. Justin has carved out a successful solo career in country music and built a reputation as a skilled silversmith with his western jewelry brand, Sacred West Vintage.We talk about life on the road with 3 Doors Down, the transition into country songwriting, and what it means to handcraft pieces of silver that carry meaning and tradition. From the stage to the silver bench, Justin shares the highs, the grind, and the inspiration behind it all.
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1:13:24
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J.B. Zielke: Cowboy Adventures Across Six Continents & Author of 'The Lost Cowboy
Join us as we journey with J.B. Zielke, the cowboy who has explored six continents and authored "The Lost Cowboy." In this episode, Zielke shares captivating tales from his global cowboy life, from Argentina to Mongolia, and discusses the challenges and discoveries that inspired his book. Tune in to hear about the diverse experiences that define cowboying today. Available anywhere you get your podcasts or see the full video on our YouTube channel. Link To JB's Book The Lost CowboyPaperbackhttps://amzn.to/3Du2vHDAudio Bookhttps://amzn.to/41PRKZv
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2:35:22
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2:35:22
Keith Mundee: Western Industry Icon, American Hat President & Cowboy Culture Champion
In this episode of the Cowboy Cartel Podcast, we sit down with Keith Mundee, President of American Hat Company and a true icon in the western industry. From his early days with Miller International and the evolution of the iconic Cinch brand, to taking the helm at American Hat alongside his unique connection with the late Keith Maddox, Keith shares his remarkable journey.Discover the secrets behind cowboy hat design, the challenges of meeting surging demand, and the passion that drives American Hat’s commitment to quality and community. Whether you're a longtime fan of cowboy culture or new to the scene, Keith's behind-the-scenes stories and valuable business insights will inspire and inform.Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with industry secrets, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the world of western heritage. Join us and get inspired by one of the most respected voices in the business!
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2:13:05
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2:13:05
Click Thompson: 3-Time PRCA Photographer of the Year, Rodeo Photography & Cowboy Hat Collector
In this episode of the Cowboy Cartel Podcast, we sit down with three-time PRCA Photographer of the Year, Click Thompson, a renowned name in rodeo photography. Click shares his journey from Virginia to becoming one of the most respected photographers in the rodeo, PBR, and bull riding worlds.We dive deep into Click’s passion for cowboy fashion, including his impressive cowboy hat collection, and discuss the unique styles he’s built over the years. Whether it's the gear or the artistry behind his work, Click talks about how he transitioned from film to digital photography, and how tools like Photoshop and Lightroom shape his images.As the official photographer for major rodeo events, Click reveals what it takes to capture the essence of bull riding and Western culture through the lens. He also shares tips for aspiring photographers looking to break into the rodeo photography scene.With insights on American Hat Company, cowboy hats, and the business of capturing rodeo action, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge for fans of rodeo, Western fashion, and professional photography. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the best in the business!
Western life and lifestyle podcast where we talk about all things related to the industry, including cowboy hats, cowboy boots, rodeo and western sports, western fashion, and interviews with notable people in the industry. Sometimes we get off topic, but its always a good time.
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