Ep. 15: Sandy Chilewich

Textile product designer and entrepreneur Sandy Chilewich regales us with tales of growing up in Rotterdam, being a child of the ‘60s and finding her way to founding the very successful Hue leg wear company. Now, as the head of Chilewich Sultan, she candidly shares the trials and triumphs that have informed her wisdom - including a panic attack at the public speaking podium. Sadly, no scotch was involved in this interview.

Photo by Kristen Gladney

Sandy Chilewich is a force. As we listened to her talk, we couldn't help but appreciate and be enamored with her honesty. She opened up about her tough childhood abroad, difficulties with academics and finding her way. 

Sandy's American dream story seems accidental, but we feel like it was her destiny. She talks about building not one but TWO successful textile brands. Learn when and how she finds happiness by listening above.

Sandy's first company, HUE, launched her into the world of textiles.

The Ray Bowl and Ray Tray, named after one of her children.

The original Basketweave Chilewich placemat

Sandy Chilewich and Joe Sultan of Chilewich Sultan.

One of the things we loved about Sandy was how down-to-earth and honest she was about running a business—from its benefits to its difficulties. We felt refreshed... she painted a real picture of herself, from what she enjoyed (and why) to what she struggled with. Listen to the episode above and we're sure you'll agree!

More details about Chilewich's products can be found on chilewich.com. Follow Chilewich on Facebook and Instagram.

Sandy and Joe at their house in upstate, NY. Photo by Nicholas Calcott.

Sandy in her workspace.

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Special thanks to Chris Modl of Yore Studio for editing this episode.
Music in this episode courtesy of
El Ten Eleven—hear more on Bandcamp.
Shoutout to
Jenny Rask for designing the Clever logo.


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Ep. 16: Harry Allen

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Ep. 14: Danny Seo