About This Episode: In this episode, Mikki sits down with Amber Newbury, founder of Die With Your Boots On, and Laurie Moran, the shop’s Program Director. Together, they explore the evolution of a Salem-based boutique that’s redefining goth fashion, size inclusivity, and self-expression—with a whole lot of heart and humor. From corporate burnout and pandemic pivots to kiddie pool job interviews and drag shows in-store, Amber and Laurie share the deeply personal and often hilarious journey of building a business that’s as bold as its name. Whether it’s helping someone try on a dress for the first time or watching a kid save up birthday money for a tote bag, Die With Your Boots On is about more than clothes—it’s about confidence, community, and showing up exactly as you are. Key Moments: “I wanted to make the outside match the inside.” — Amber on reclaiming identity after leaving corporate life Laurie shares how their creative partnership grew from friendship to full-on collaboration A real talk breakdown on size inclusivity, pressuring vendors for extended sizing, and saying goodbye to those who don’t deliver Why DWYBO isn’t just a store—it’s a safe, stylish space for weirdos, queerdos, and everyone in between How Salem helped them feel less like outsiders—and inspired them to build a home for others like them About the Speakers: Mikki Wilson is your host, a team member of Creative Collective and the founder of Dot Connector Consulting, where she works with women to amplify their value, voice, and visibility with intention. Amber Newbury is the founder and co-owner of Die With Your Boots On, a goth-forward fashion boutique and bold retail brand focused on alternative style, size inclusivity, and creative freedom. Laurie Moran is the Program Director at Die With Your Boots On, where she leads events, partnerships, and plus-size advocacy while channeling her creative background into community building and vendor engagement. 📍 Visit in-person: Die With Your Boots On – 9 Church Street, Salem, MA The Salem Mortuary (their sister store) – 77 Wharf Street, Salem, MA 🕒 Hours: Open daily, 11AM–6PM 🛍️ Shop Online: https://diewithyourbootson.com 📲 Social:  @DieWithYourBootsOn1  Host Credit: Hosted by Mikki Wilson, founder of Dot Connector Consulting Production Credit: Produced by Randyll Collum for Peabody TV, your community media center serving the residents and businesses of Peabody and the North Shore area. Learn more at https://peabodytv.org/ Sponsor Credit: Sponsored by Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry Organization Credit: A Creative Collective podcast. Creative Collective is a business support program that provides modern resources, strategy, and connections for small businesses and creators, because building something meaningful doesn't mean you have to do it alone. Learn more at creativecollectivema.com