
An Interview with Modern Fellows Founder: Jake Colvin
Firstly, can you introduce yourself?
I'm a husband and dad based in Washington, DC. I've been wearing a suit for the better part of 20 years for my career, which explores the role of the global marketplace in companies' success.
How do you describe your personal style? What/Who are your inspirations?
What motivated you to create Modern Fellows and what were you doing before that? Was it something you planned for a long time?
I started working on Modern Fellows in 2011 when my wife and I were expecting our first child. For me, it was a creative outlet, something I could build from the ground up, and a chance to combine my passion for getting to know innovative entrepreneurs with my interest in style and fashion. Modern Fellows remains a side-hustle for me, and I work hard at a day-job that I'm passionate about.
How do Modern Fellows use style to empower viewers, especially entrepreneurs?
How do you decide which brands to partner with, and how do you ensure that your fans are receptive to sponsored content?
I aim to create long-term relationships with innovative companies and founders who are interested in peeling back the curtain on their experience and philosophy, rather than one-time engagements for the sake of a bit of cash or a free sample. Generally, I will only write up products and brands where I have had a good experience. I've shelved several stories when it became clear that the product was just not working out or where I didn't have a positive experience. Also, while I may accept a free sample in exchange for a review, to date I haven't posted much "sponsored" content. To the extent that I do in the future, I would label it as such and ensure it aligned with my interests and goals.
What inspirational quote do you live by?
"If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything," which is attributed to Mark Twain. Life may be all about who you know, but I think it's more about how you treat the people you know, and that starts with being straightforward and honest. I've been lucky to have several bosses and mentors in my life who have modeled that for me.