This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.
We sat down with Florian, an industry veteran with decades of experience, to talk about the biggest myth: that animals are killed just for their leather. Spoiler alert – that’s not true. Leather is a byproduct of the meat and dairy industry, and if we don’t use the hides, they just become waste.
We also explore:
✅ The shocking stats about what people believe about leather.
✅ How leather is actually one of the oldest and most sustainable materials.
✅ Why “vegan leather” alternatives are often misleading – and not as eco-friendly as people think.
✅ The role of chemicals in tanning – and how modern innovations are making leather more sustainable.
✅ The incredible longevity of leather goods and how they can last for decades (even 60+ years!)
This episode isn’t about shaming anyone – it’s about getting the facts out there so everyone can make informed choices. So whether you’re a leather enthusiast, a sustainability nerd, or just curious, join us for this honest and insightful conversation! Listen now and join the conversation!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we’re stepping back in time to explore the legacy of leather and how it has been part of human civilization for thousands of years. From ancient tanning practices in Pompeii to leather as the ultimate natural material, we talk about how leather’s DNA is woven into our history — and how it can guide a more sustainable future today.Key topics we cover:✅ The ancient origins of leather and its role in early human life✅ How leather has evolved alongside civilization and protected us for centuries✅ The risk of losing artisanal skills and craftsmanship in the age of mass production✅ The importance of preserving leather’s legacy for future generations✅ How we can reintroduce leather into modern life — and stop replacing it with unsustainable alternatives🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations and deep dives into the world of leather!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we’re tackling the controversial topic of vegan leather. What does it really mean? Is it truly vegan if it’s made of plastic? And how does it impact the environment, animals, and your values? We discuss:✅ The rise of vegan leather and how it’s often petroleum-based plastic.✅ Why the term “vegan leather” can be misleading and how to spot the difference.✅ The environmental cost of plastic-based alternatives – from microplastics to landfill.✅ The importance of bio-based and truly natural alternatives.✅ Why leather, as a byproduct of the meat and dairy industry, might be the more sustainable and ethical choice.✅ The challenge for consumers: to dig deeper, read the labels, and demand better choices.This episode isn’t about shaming anyone – it’s about empowering you to make informed decisions. Whether you’re vegan, a leather enthusiast, or just someone who cares about what you’re buying, we’re here to help you see past the marketing and find the truth.🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations and deep dives into the leather world!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we’re tackling the complex topic of animal welfare and ethical concerns in the leather industry. We’re recording from an organic farm in the Netherlands, surrounded by animals living their best lives.We discuss:✅ The reality of animal welfare in today’s industrial farming and why leather is often unfairly blamed.✅ How ethical animal farming can coexist with the leather industry when done responsibly.✅ Why it’s important to look at leather as a byproduct of meat and dairy – and not the cause of animal slaughter.✅ The growing demand for organic and regenerative farming practices that respect animals and the environment.✅ The problem with fast fashion’s demand for cheap leather goods and the labor and environmental abuses it can fuel.✅ How certifications and consumer awareness can drive real change in the industry.This episode isn’t about pushing an agenda – it’s about giving you the full picture so you can make choices that align with your values. Whether you’re a conscious consumer, an animal welfare advocate, or just curious about how leather fits into the bigger picture, this conversation is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations and deep dives into the leather world!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we’re heading straight to the source – an organic dairy farm near Amsterdam – to uncover how leather production ties into meat and dairy industries, animal welfare, and the environment.We discuss:✅ How deforestation in Brazil and beyond links to leather’s global supply chain.✅ The carbon footprint of cattle – methane emissions vs. soil health.✅ Why animal welfare and local farming matter for sustainable leather.✅ The myth that leather is the main driver of deforestation.✅ The rise of traceability and certifications like Leather Working Group and Chrome-Free Working Group.✅ How consumers can support ethical practices without being misled by greenwashing.✅ Why local, circular production could be the future of truly sustainable leather.This episode isn’t about guilt or blame – it’s about awareness and better choices.🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations and deep dives into the leather world!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on how leather is actually made – from raw hides to the luxurious leather goods we see in stores.We’re sharing the step-by-step journey of this remarkable material, including:✅ Where leather starts – and why it’s not fur✅ Key stages: cleaning, tanning, coloring & finishing✅ The difference between vegetable-tanned, chrome-tanned & modern eco-tanned leather✅ Why “veg tan” doesn’t mean vegan!✅ How tanneries recycle waste and close the loop✅ How Leather Working Group & other certifications ensure safe, responsible processesThis is a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible skill and craftsmanship involved in leather making – a process that transforms a byproduct into a durable, timeless material.🔔 Subscribe for more insights on leather’s history, sustainability & future!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it:In this episode, we sit down with Nor, a fourth-generation leather crafter from Amsterdam, to uncover the secrets behind leather’s legendary longevity and durability. We explore how family heritage and passion are woven into every handcrafted leather item, and why vegetable-tanned leather isn’t what most people think.Discover why real leather goods can last generations, how to tell the difference between high-quality and cheap leather, and what simple care tips can keep your leather items beautiful for decades. From heartfelt stories of 60-year-old leather bags to the exciting future of compostable, eco-friendly leathers – this episode is a must-watch for anyone curious about sustainable fashion and leather craftsmanship.🔔 Watch now and join the conversation about the future of leather!
This is a collaboration video with Smit & Zoon, a leading leather chemical company based in the Netherlands. In this special episode of our Leathertainment podcast, we’re diving deep to help people understand leather better – its origin, sustainability, and all the misconceptions around it.In this episode, we explore the future of leather – how it’s positioned in the evolving world of conscious consumption, what the industry needs to do to reclaim its narrative, and why the story of leather deserves to be told. 🌿We discuss:✅ Why leather can be the sustainable choice – if we choose it mindfully✅ The role of consumers in shaping this future✅ The need for authentic storytelling from the industry to bridge the gap in knowledge✅ How the craft of leatherwork, once common, is at risk and why we should fight to preserve it✅ Surprising insights from vegan consumers and brands who are rethinking plastic-based “alternatives”✅ What’s next for leather: from composting at end-of-life to futuristic visions for humanity 🌱This is an episode for everyone who’s curious about leather’s place in a better world – and how our choices today shape that future.
Are you ready to be inspired by a true multi-craftsman? Meet Jonathan Ward, the mastermind behind two successful automotive brands and now, his own leather goods company. In this video, he shares his journey and insights as a serial entrepreneur and craftsman with a unique background in both cars and leather. Get ready to hear about his passion that drives him, the challenges he faced in starting his automotive brand, and how the game has changed when it comes to promoting your brand in our current digital era. With expertise, reliability, and true passion for his craft, Jonathan is definitely someone you don't want to miss hearing from. Get ready to be inspired and learn that passion truly is the key to success.
Check out Jonathan Ward:
ICON Website: www.icon4x4.com Instagram: @icon4x4
J.Ward Leather Website: www.jwardcollection.com Instagram: @jwardcollection
Campfire Coats Website: www.campfirecoats.com Instagram: @campfirecoats
Welcome to the world of leather crafting with the incredible Marianne Amore! In this video, we dive into who Marianne Amore is and how she became a master of her craft. From starting out as a hobby of leather crafting to now running her own business, Marianne shares her journey and insights with us. So whether you're an aspiring leather craftsman or simply looking for a new hobby, this video offers valuable information from someone who truly knows their stuff. Tune in now to become a master of anything with Marianne Amore's expert guidance!
Witness the incredible work that goes into crafting luxury leather products with Moore & Giles, the renowned leather company. Discover their story and get an exclusive look at their partnerships, innovative processes, and sustainability initiatives that make them leaders in the leather industry. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of tanning through the eyes of Sackett Wood, CEO of Moore & Giles, and learn how they create high-quality leather hides for customers around the world. Whether you're looking to purchase a new leather product or just want to find out more about tanning, this video has something for everyone!
Are you wondering if leather's sustainability is really as bad as everyone makes it out to be? Do you think plastic is more recyclable and therefore a better alternative? This video features Deborah Taylor, Managing Director and Founder of the Sustainable Leather Foundation, who dives into the big questions about leather's impact on the environment and what we can do about it. She discusses Apple's and Tesla's decision to abandon leather, ways to ethically source exotic leathers, the environmental impacts of tanning, plus debunked myths about vegan leather - all with her trademark enthusiasm and expertise. Find out why people think plastic is a better choice for eco-friendly products with this in-depth exploration of the latest trends in ethical fashion.
The challenges and methods used in authenticating luxury goods with Vidyuth Srinivasan, CEO of Entrupy.
https://www.entrupy.com/
Leathertainment Podcast Episode 17, w/ Lucy Caille
Bespoq Automotive helps transform Tesla's typical upholstery with real luxury leather interiors.
Bespoq Automotive:
https://bespoqautomotive.co.uk/
Leather tanning with olives, Thomas Lamparter from Olivenleder shows us how olive tanning is changing the leather industry.
Olivenleder
Dr. Kerry Senior , director of Leather UK, discusses the tanning process, and some challenges and myths within the leather industry.
Leather UK: https://leatheruk.org/leather-trade/
Bill Wuyek, owner of District Leather Supply, and fellow leathercrafter joins us for today's podcast. Check out District Leather Supply:
https://districtleathersupply.com/
https://www.instagram.com/districtleathersupply/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl_3TLUh3J62xtq6tC0jj6g
Desserto is one of the innovators in the vegan leather space. They introduced their cactus leather to market in 2019. I talk with cofounders Adrian and Marte , to discuss Desserto's work in improving sustainability in the fashion industry.
Check out Desserto's site:
https://desserto.com.mx
https://www.instagram.com/desserto.pelle/
Today we welcome Mica & Juliette from Polène . Juliette is the Head of Leather Goods Design and Mica is a Senior Designer. Take an inside look at Polène's practices and approach to leather craft in their designs. Polène website: https://eng.polene-paris.com/ Polène social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@polene_paris?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/polene_paris/?hl=en
Had a great talk with Liz and Tony from Springfield Leather Company about today's leather craft industry and recent boom of newcomers.
Checkout Springfield Leather's site here:
https://www.springfieldleather.com/
Other Links:
https://www.youtube.com/user/SpringfieldLeatherCo
https://www.instagram.com/springfieldleatherco/
