Unboxing the Jewelry Industry with M. Flynn

Unboxing the Jewelry Industry with M. Flynn

In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with sisters Megan Flynn and Mariah Flynn Riordan, founders of M Flynn Jewelry, to discuss how the jewelry industry has transformed over the last two decades. They examine the dramatic rise in gold prices, the emergence of lab-grown diamonds, and how those shifts have impacted both consumers and independent jewelers. Megan and Mariah share how their custom jewelry business has evolved, their approach to curating designers from around the world, and why storytelling remains at the heart of every piece they create. They also reflect on building a business in Boston’s South End, supporting local community events, and helping customers celebrate life’s biggest milestones through jewelry.    Key Points From This Episode:  [00:00:00] Introduction to the episode.  [00:01:15] Megan and Mariah reflect on more than 20 years in the jewelry business and the evolution of M Flynn Jewelry.  [00:01:55] The dramatic rise in gold prices and the challenges it has created for jewelers and customers.  [00:03:31] Growth of M Flynn’s custom jewelry business and reimagining existing jewelry through redesign and recycling gold.  [00:04:38] The arrival of lab-grown diamonds and how they have changed the jewelry industry.  [00:06:40] Differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds, including resale value and long-term investment considerations.  [00:08:24] Ethical sourcing misconceptions and the impact of natural diamond industries on local communities.  [00:09:18] Why M Flynn chose to focus exclusively on natural diamonds and quality craftsmanship.  [00:10:52] The appeal of unique diamonds and changing consumer preferences away from perfection.  [00:12:39] The market for colored gemstones and the future role of lab-grown stones.  [00:13:32] Antique diamonds, their distinctive characteristics, and their growing popularity.  [00:15:35] Building a curated collection of designers and expanding beyond in-house jewelry production.  [00:17:31] Attending major jewelry trade shows to discover new designers, gemstones, and trends.  [00:18:59] Longstanding designer partnerships, including Jade Trau and Melissa Kaye.  [00:20:49] M Flynn’s annual Nantucket pop-up event and community-focused experiences.  [00:21:05] The origins of the South End Stroll and M Flynn’s involvement in building neighborhood connections.  [00:21:45] Combining custom jewelry with carefully selected designer collections to create a unique retail experience.  [00:22:41] The role jewelry plays in marking important life moments and family milestones.  [00:24:24] Creating an approachable, welcoming jewelry store experience without pressure or intimidation.  [00:25:56] Rapid-fire questions, including favorite pieces, neighborhood spots, and memorable product experiments.  [00:27:35] South End business recommendations and community collaborations.  [00:28:19] Where to find M Flynn Jewelry online and on social media.      Links:  Megan Flynn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-flynn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-flynn]   M Flynn Jewelry: https://www.mflynnjewelry.com [https://www.mflynnjewelry.com/]

One Mighty Movement: Jon Olinto's jump from local fast casual to nationwide stone milled

In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with Jon Olinto, co-founder of B.Good and founder of One Mighty Mill. Jon shares his journey from building a fast-casual restaurant brand to addressing a major issue in the American food system: flour. He explains how industrial processing strips nutrients from wheat and how One Mighty Mill is working to bring them back through stone milling organic grains. The conversation covers the early days of testing recipes in the South End, scaling production nationwide, and partnering with schools and major retailers. Jon also reflects on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of solving real problems. Key Points From This Episode: [00:00:20] Introduction to Jon Olinto and his South End roots [00:01:47] Origins of One Mighty Mill and early R&D in the South End [00:03:13] The problem with processed flour and its impact on nutrition [00:05:28] Vision to build a national brand and transform the food system [00:06:02] Founding story of Be Good and early lessons in food sourcing [00:08:44] Realization that bread and flour were overlooked ingredients [00:10:08] Identifying flour as a major gap in consumer awareness [00:11:11] Sourcing organic wheat and discovering stone milling [00:13:28] Building proof of concept and early experimentation process [00:14:18] Using Cathedral High School kitchen for product development [00:16:07] Launching the business and early customer feedback loop [00:17:31] First major partnerships with Boston Public Schools and retailers [00:18:32] Expansion into Whole Foods and national distribution [00:19:46] Challenges of scaling a fresh, non-shelf-stable product [00:20:50] Building regional mills to support national growth [00:21:41] Misconceptions around gluten and processed food systems [00:23:09] Launching new products and working with major partners like Costco [00:25:27] Favorite South End spots and community ties [00:26:20] Advice for entrepreneurs: solve a real customer problem [00:27:27] Community impact through school partnerships and employee ownership [00:29:47] Full-circle connection from South End beginnings to national growth Links: Jon Olinto on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonolinto [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonolinto] One Mighty Mill: https://www.onemightymill.com/ [https://www.onemightymill.com/]

SAULT of the Earth: Philip Saul's path to creating an iconic New England brand

In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with Philip Saul, founder of SAULT New England, to trace his path from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to building a recognizable retail brand in Boston’s South End. Philip shares how early struggles in school and a nontraditional path led him into retail, where he discovered his creative strengths. The conversation covers his time at major brands like American Eagle, Banana Republic, and Urban Outfitters, and how those experiences shaped his approach to business. Philip reflects on launching SAULT with limited resources, growing it thoughtfully across multiple locations, and staying grounded in community and personal style. Key Points From This Episode: [00:00:00] Introduction to Philip Saul and the founding of SAULT New England. [00:01:58] Philip’s early life in Pennsylvania and challenges with school. [00:02:37] First jobs and early work experiences shaping his work ethic. [00:04:31] Leaving community college and starting at American Eagle. [00:05:18] Discovering a talent for visual merchandising and creative direction. [00:06:07] Transition to Banana Republic and exposure to corporate retail. [00:08:02] Career growth at Urban Outfitters and learning through experience. [00:09:23] Influence of creative leadership and mindset around making things happen. [00:10:27] Moving to Boston and finding a fresh start in a new city. [00:11:07] Inspiration project that sparked the concept for SAULT. [00:12:18] Recognizing the need to move on from Urban Outfitters. [00:13:12] Origin of the SAULT brand name and personal meaning behind it. [00:14:10] Using stock options as initial funding to launch the business. [00:15:11] Opening the first SAULT location with limited resources and hands-on work. [00:16:07] Challenges of starting a retail business before social media marketing. [00:17:25] Developing a plan B and taking the leap into entrepreneurship. [00:18:15] Defining the SAULT aesthetic and product philosophy. [00:19:21] Expansion to Portsmouth and Provincetown locations. [00:19:41] Challenges of scaling from one store to multiple locations. [00:19:59] Personal connection to Provincetown and opening the third store. [00:21:14] Organic growth and staying aligned with personal values and community. [00:22:28] Extending the brand into lifestyle and home design concepts. [00:23:21] Tailoring each store to its local customer base. [00:24:03] Reflection on success, humility, and personal growth. [00:25:06] Must-have wardrobe staple: the oxford shirt. [00:25:14] Best-selling item in the shop over time. [00:26:10] Advice for starting a brick-and-mortar business. Links: Philip Saul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-saul-b6955921 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-saul-b6955921] SAULT New England: https://saultne.com/ [https://saultne.com/]

Camper to CEO: Jerrell Cox’s 32-Year Journey with USES

In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with Jerrell Cox, CEO of United South End Settlements (USES). Jerrell shares his journey from attending Camp Hale as a 10-year-old to leading the organization decades later. The conversation explores the history and evolution of USES, its impact on youth and families, and its commitment to creating community in Boston’s South End. Jerrell also discusses the STEP program, which provides direct financial support to families, and the importance of connection, dignity, and opportunity in creating lasting change. Key Points From This Episode: [00:00:00] Introduction to the episode. [00:01:22] Jerrell Cox’s first experience attending Camp Hale and its lasting impact. [00:03:28] His journey from camper to CEO over 32 years with USES. [00:04:32] Leading the transformation of Camp Hale and raising $6 million for improvements. [00:05:27] Transition into leadership roles during the pandemic and becoming CEO. [00:06:33] History of United South End Settlements and its founding in 1892. [00:07:52] Reopening of the Children’s Arts Center, the first of its kind in the country. [00:08:54] Overview of USES programs and ways to get involved. [00:11:12] Expansion from youth services to supporting entire families. [00:11:45] Introduction to the STEP program and the shift to direct cash support. [00:12:30] Impact of financial support on family stability and child outcomes. [00:14:20] Evolution of the program across cohorts and increased reach. [00:15:32] Application process and focus on supporting families in deepest need. [00:16:30] Importance of community-based coaching and reducing isolation. [00:19:30] Ways for community members to volunteer and support USES. [00:20:45] The role of local connections and relationships in strengthening the South End. [00:23:34] Addressing misconceptions about poverty and financial need. [00:24:10] Bringing together families across different socioeconomic backgrounds. [00:25:56] The importance of belonging and community support. [00:29:56] Jerrell’s advice: be authentic and lean into being yourself. [00:31:12] How to connect with USES and attend their annual gala. Links: Jerrell Cox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrell-cox-103663171 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrell-cox-103663171]  United South End Settlements: https://www.uses.org/ [https://www.uses.org/]

Rapid Rise: Jordan Renouf on the side hustle that turned into a neighborhood sensation

In this episode of South End Stoop Sessions, Cate Brinch sits down with Jordan Renouf, founder of Brick Street Bagels. Jordan shares how a simple idea to meet neighbors turned into a fast-growing bagel business rooted in community. From baking in his apartment and delivering by bike to hosting pop-ups and securing kitchen space at Bar Mazzana, then planting roots at South End Buttery. Jordan walks through the steady progression of his journey. The conversation covers his approach to branding, social media, and building something without a rigid plan, as well as the role of collaboration and consistency in growing a neighborhood staple.      Key Points From This Episode:  [00:00:00] Introduction to Jordan Renouf and Brick Street Bagels  [00:00:48] Origins of the brand’s cardboard box aesthetic and necessity-driven design  [00:02:36] Handmade bagel process and hands-on production  [00:03:31] Early entrepreneurial experiences and background in politics  [00:06:41] Moving to Boston and identifying the lack of bagels in the South End  [00:07:42] Starting the business as a way to meet neighbors post-pandemic  [00:08:26] Using Instagram as a tool despite no prior social media experience  [00:09:15] Early delivery model using a bike to reach customers directly  [00:10:30] Product limitations and early-stage learning curve  [00:11:31] Transition to Bar Mazzana kitchen and scaling production  [00:12:37] First pop-ups at Neighborhood Wines and community response  [00:13:27] Pitching local restaurants for kitchen space and securing Bar Mazzana  [00:15:54] Hiring the first employee and building the team  [00:17:18] Early morning baking routine and experience of working overnight  [00:18:36] Folding table pop-ups and growing customer demand  [00:20:15] Managing supply limitations and selling out quickly  [00:21:24] Weather challenges and need for indoor operations  [00:22:23] Transition to The Buttery and establishing a physical space  [00:23:17] Creating a community-focused environment beyond just selling bagels  [00:24:18] Expansion to a permanent location on Clarendon Street  [00:26:09] Favorite collaboration with Little Donkey and Ken Oringer  [00:26:57] Best-selling and favorite bagel flavors  [00:28:35] Approach to Instagram and content creation philosophy  [00:31:03] Avoiding algorithm-driven content strategies in favor of authenticity  [00:33:14] Advice on social media and taking small steps toward big goals  [00:34:35] Importance of team trust, delegation, and building culture    Links:  Brick Street Bagels: https://www.brickstreetbagels.org/ [https://www.brickstreetbagels.org/]  Find out more about South End Business Alliance: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.sebaboston.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.sebaboston.com/] Follow South End Business Alliance on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/southendbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/southendbusiness] Find out more about South End Local: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.southend-local.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.southend-local.com/] Follow South End Local on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/southendlocal [https://www.instagram.com/southendlocal]