The Sourcing Gals

Ever had a product idea so exciting… but kept it to yourself out of fear, doubt, or “what ifs”? In this episode, Erin and Jackie share a surprising moment from their recent retreat that reminded them just how powerful it is to say your idea out loud. From vision boards and five-year plans to vulnerable truths about self-doubt, they’ll explore why voicing your vision is the first—and most important...

Let’s talk profit—because if you’re building a product-based business, you need a lot more than a small markup. In this episode, we break down how to calculate your initial markup (IMU), why a 70–80% margin is key to staying in business, and how to price smart from day one. If math feels intimidating, don’t worry—we’ll help you back that math up and build a business that’s designed for real profit...

If you’ve been thinking about launching your own product brand but wondering if the market is too crowded or the timing isn’t right—this episode is your sign. There has literally never been a better time to start. We’ll take you back to what sourcing and selling used to look like (hint: it involved trade shows, massive MOQs, and corporate gatekeepers)—and show you why today’s landscape is wide ope...

Did you know that where you source your product is just as important as how you source it? Certain regions of the world specialize in different types of materials, construction techniques, and pricing tiers—and choosing the right one can make or break your product. In this episode, we’ll share how we think about the global sourcing landscape, where we go for specific types of goods, and why it mat...

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How long will this take?!” — you are not alone. Product development is a process with many moving parts, and unrealistic expectations are one of the biggest sources of stress for new founders. In this episode, we break down real-world timelines for developing, sourcing, and launching a product—so you can plan, budget, and manage your process with confidence. Whether...

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on why we built Smarter Sourcing —and why this is the moment for you to finally bring your product to life without the overwhelm. We’ll share the transformational results we’ve seen with our clients and students, the big mindset shifts that happen when you understand how sourcing really works, and why this course was designed for real life—not corpor...

Let’s be real—business isn’t built in a vacuum. Life happens. Kids, cross-country moves, burnout, breakups, unexpected inspiration... all of it can pull you in a new direction, ready or not. In this episode, we get personal. We’re opening up about the big life shifts that shaped our careers, why the path to product success is never linear, and how change can lead to some of the best (and most unex...

You’ve got an amazing product idea, but how much is it actually going to cost to bring it to life? In this episode, we break down the real costs behind manufacturing—from samples and materials to shipping, duties, packaging, and beyond. We’ll walk through the full cost structure most first-time founders overlook and share real-world examples of how costs can spiral (or stay on track) depending on...

It’s giving… sourcing situationship. Let’s find your perfect production partner—without the red flags. Finding the right production partner is kind of like dating—you’ve got options, everyone talks a good game, and choosing wrong can cost you a lot . In this episode, we break down the differences between factories, makers, mills, vendors, and agents—and when to “swipe right” on each one. Whether y...

You’ve found the perfect factory… until they hit you with a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 5,000 units. Meanwhile, you’re trying to start with 150. Cue the drama. In this episode, we’re unpacking what MOQs are, why they exist, and how to navigate them like a pro. We’ll share tips on negotiating, creative workarounds, and how to set realistic expectations—without compromising your product or budge...

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the woo-woo tools we actually use in our daily lives and businesses—because sourcing isn’t just about factories and freight. From Tarot spreads to walking meditations, crystals on our desks to manifesting aligned clients, we’re sharing the practices that help us stay focused, clear, and open to what’s next. Whether you’re spiritually curious or al...

In this jargon-busting episode of The Sourcing Gals , we break down the terms you’ll hear constantly in sourcing and manufacturing—like MOQ, COGS, IMU, and more—and explain what they really mean. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the acronyms flying around in the product development world, this episode is for you. We’ll help you confidently talk the talk with your factory partners, making sur...

In this episode of The Sourcing Gals , we dive into the essential first steps of launching a product-based business—with one big message: you don’t need 10 SKUs, just one great one. We explore why starting small helps you stay agile, responsive, and profitable as you grow. From market research and smart assortment planning to managing inventory and building a strong brand identity, we walk through...

In this episode of The Sourcing Gals, Erin Souder discusses the complexities of tariffs and duties, their impact on product-based businesses, and strategies for managing costs in a changing global trade environment. The conversation covers the definitions of tariffs and duties, the emotional and monetary implications for businesses, and practical approaches to navigate the challenges posed by incr...

From understanding your audience’s needs to exploring global influences, Erin and Jackie share insider secrets on staying stylish and ahead of the curve. In this episode, they break down how trends evolve based on your target demo and explain the trend curve—so you know exactly when to jump on board and when to hold off. Discover the art of trend-spotting whether you're shopping at home or explori...

Have a brilliant product idea but not sure where to start? In this episode, Erin and Jackie break down the essential first steps to turn your inspiration into a market-ready product. Drawing from personal experiences and real-world lessons, they explain how to identify the genuine need behind your idea, assess market saturation, and pinpoint what makes your product unique. They dive into the conce...

In this episode, we demystify the world of sourcing—from finding suppliers to creating products that stand out. We’ll dive into why sourcing isn’t sorcery (even though we might wish it were!) and how it can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches. Want to scale smarter and streamline production? This episode is your crash course in why sourcing is your secret weapon for taking your busi...

Before we became The Sourcing Gals , we survived the ultimate crash course in retail: Abercrombie & Fitch HQ. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on our intense, fast-paced years at A&F—where tight deadlines, global production challenges, and sky-high expectations shaped us into the product development pros we are today. From vendor drama to “Winter, Where Are You?” disasters,...

Ready to turn your product idea into profit? Tune in to our quick teaser episode to meet Erin and Jackie—your guides to sourcing, manufacturing, and scaling your brand. Discover how we’ll help you cut through the overwhelm, save time, and boost your margins. Whether you’re a total newbie or looking to elevate your existing business, this trailer is your first step on the road to product success!