Conversations with Carsten Grandy-Richardson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carsten Grandy-Richardson

Hi Carsten, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Carsten Grandy-Richardson, the founder of Grandyworldwide, a lifestyle curation brand rooted in heritage, artistry, and storytelling. My journey has always been about pushing boundaries, whether in fashion, design, or business.

Growing up in Raleigh, NC, I developed a deep appreciation for creativity, culture, and community. My father’s legacy and early exposure to art, music, and sports shaped my perspective. These influences instilled in me a relentless work ethic and a passion for meaningful storytelling. While studying Management (Entrepreneurship & Innovation) at North Carolina A&T, I built Grandyworldwide from the ground up, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, historical narratives, and the culture around me.

From fashion shows to viral collaborations like the “Scholars on The Yard” collab with FRKO, I’ve worked to make Grandyworldwide more than just a brand. It is a mindset, an ethos, something you live, not just wear. Alongside my entrepreneurial journey, I have explored commercial banking at Wells Fargo, participated in HBCU accelerators, and refined my craft in design, experiential retail, and marketing.

Now, I am leaning deeper into creative strategy, branding, and storytelling. I recently joined the ADMagic HBCU program with Wieden+Kennedy to sharpen my skills in the industry.

At the core, my journey is about bridging art, culture, and business to leave an impact beyond just product. I aim to create experiences, spark conversations, and inspire the next generation. And this is only the beginning.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has definitely not been smooth. Life has thrown its fair share of challenges my way, from personal setbacks to business hurdles. One of the biggest obstacles was tearing my ACL, MCL, and meniscus, which forced me to slow down and adapt both physically and mentally. At the same time, balancing school, running a business, and dealing with unexpected manufacturer issues made the journey even more demanding.

There were moments when things felt overwhelming, whether it was navigating supply chain delays, managing financial constraints, or simply trying to stay focused while handling multiple responsibilities. Despite all of that, every challenge became a lesson. The struggles taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying committed to my vision no matter what. The journey hasn’t been easy, but overcoming these obstacles has made me stronger and more prepared for whatever comes next.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the founder of Grandyworldwide, a lifestyle curation brand that blends storytelling, design, and culture to create experiences that go beyond fashion. My work is rooted in authenticity, heritage, and innovation, bringing meaningful narratives to life through high-quality products and creative storytelling.

I specialize in design, experiential retail, branding, and marketing, with a strong focus on curating moments that resonate deeply with people. Whether through clothing, collaborations, or immersive experiences, my goal is to create work that sparks conversations and leaves a lasting impact.

I am known for my ability to connect diverse influences from history and culture to sports and music into cohesive, intentional designs. One of my proudest moments was the “Scholars on The Yard” collaboration with FRKO, which went viral and reinforced the power of storytelling in fashion. Seeing people resonate with my work and align with the vision of Grandyworldwide has been incredibly rewarding.

What sets me apart is my approach. I do not just create products; I build narratives and cultivate a brand that people can live, not just wear. I focus on merging artistry with business, ensuring that every piece or project carries depth, intention, and a sense of purpose. My journey has been about pushing boundaries and proving that design, business, and storytelling can coexist at the highest level.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I have learned along my journey is the Maverick mindset, the ability to think independently, take risks, and move with purpose despite obstacles. Embracing this mindset has taught me that your perspective shapes your reality. Challenges will come, but how you approach them determines the outcome.

Having a positive mindset has changed my life. It has helped me stay focused through injuries, setbacks, and the ups and downs of building a brand. Instead of seeing obstacles as roadblocks, I have learned to view them as opportunities for growth. Resilience, adaptability, and belief in my vision have carried me forward, and I have realized that the way you think determines the way you move.

Pricing:

• Tees ($45-65)
• Hats ($35-55)
• Hoodies ($65-130)
• Bottoms ($50-$120)
• Customs ($250+)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://grandyworldwide.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grandyworldwide/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carstengrandy-richardson/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxfUmJVzS_2LP7jWM5mxuZA