Tell us about how you got into skateboarding?
I got into skateboarding at the young age of 14, 02 around springtime in 8th grade. I was influenced to believe it or not by a BMX magazine that had skateboarding mixed in it that I’d sign out and read all the time in the library when my class went but for sure like most around then THPS1 was out and boy did that change my life.
How did you come up with Hungry Bear Hardware Co.?
The name “Hungry Bear” I’ll explain below but it’s basically a joke among friends I used to my advantage always referring to me as a bear for my lazy ways or hiding out feasting or because pretty much hibernating during winter also I’ve always been the bigger dude so yeah lol. “Hungry” refers to literal and metaphorically being and “Hardware Co.” came from saying different products out loud such as Hungry Bear wheels, skateboards, bearings then hardware which had a nice ring to it and I’m glad I went which although fun fact wheels was what I originally was going to do but long story short pricey and out of respect I didn’t want to step on a friend’s toes plus I already had my original idea and concept I.e. bear-shaped bottle /gold bolts representing honey for brand and when testing out and seeing my thought process in person I was that much more hyped on hardware.
Is it hard to build a team? What does it take to be part of your team?
I’d say yes because everyone’s good at skating nowadays however if you have an idea of what you want your team to consist of then that’s a start. What do I look for in a team rider? Well someone who’s first and foremost humble, respectful, has style and personality, good work ethic and lastly well-dressed outside of just being talent because again everyone’s good so if you’re on the same page or even I feel you bring something different to the table then you’re probably on board.
With the industry being flooded with new pros that we never heard of from smaller brands. What’s your opinion on that?
I’m all for the come up of local brands and have always supported therefore if a company is fortunate enough to turn their rider’s pro at some point then that’s sick and kudos to them for offering that opportunity.
What makes Hungry Bear Hardware Co. different than other brands out there?
As a brand, we represent fun/humor, good vibes through our team products and media. Our message is simple because in a world filled with people trying to impress the next person being something they’re not or doing something out of character that’s be yourself, stay humble, go against the grain and stay hungry!
Do you or do you have someone come up with the designs/graphics for Hungry Bear Hardware Co.?
I come up with my own designs and take a lot of pride in doing so because nothing is worse than no effort graphics or designs. Of course, if finding inspiration in something say that’s already been done or is a subtle rip off then obviously you should pay homage, for instance, our seasonal deck in which you should (check out our store and buy) because you’ll understand and see what I mean and how I made it work for Hungry Bear. I’ve had some dope people enter my life organically and are now good friends, my buddy Luis Suarez, for example, helps my creativity come to life and I’m very grateful and look out for anyone who takes care of me.
Do you think it’s hard from being from New York to get your brand out-there compared to some brand from Cali?
I do think it’s hard being from NY, Long Island specifically to get the brand out to a bigger audience. I’d say because one was limited with the number of skate shops we have for, 4 that I can think of and the few we have are far from each other which creates division limiting brand awareness and that’s if you’re fortunate enough to be supported by a shop. Now if you think about Cali there’s a ton of shops all over just like there are skate parks and a bigger audience so it’s a little more motivating but don’t get me wrong the hustle is sold separately so if you’re hungry enough you’re working via social media, working with local brands, talents and utilizing your resources to not only help yourself but others as well.
Let’s say: I’m a shop owner, you come to my shop & you want me to carry your brand. How would you get me to carry Hungry Bear Hardware Co. in my store?
I think I have a very unique twist on an essential product that stands out and that’s going up against any of the top hardware brands in terms of creativity via product appearance. I’ve been told by many which include established skate shops that carry/support us as well as skaters that I have something good to offer and something that appeals which is my seller and what has been mentioned by customers.
What is Daniel’s day like?
An average day for myself would be like most people shutting off alarm haha, then checking games I play for daily rewards then, of course, Instagram more only if I’ve posted before going to bed on who’s showing love and how well a post is doing because ever since the algorithm change I’ve noticed engagement such as likes/views have died down with posts getting lost in shuffle or maybe even not seen. If you’re reading this showing love is big for any brand especially for us smaller ones and is appreciated and I thank you very much. Aside from going to work I mean if my days going well no real issues and I mention because I work with adults with special needs so my guys come first so if all is well and I do decide to take a break then I work on getting up a post based on my riders who’s got something going on and reposting and keeping the mix of content skate pics, videos, product posts going. After works over I mean, I’m heading home and trying to munch on something and is when I’ll relax a bit, geeking out which refers to catching up with YouTube videos from wrestling, anime, to skate content checking daily sites ( True Skateboard Mag, The Berrics, Transworld, Thrasher, Slap message board, Jenkem, Theories of Atlantis, mail for orders placed and maybe finding music for some projects in-store ) but other than that I’m normally fighting with myself to go out and skate haha. Aside from all that I’m chilling working on designs brainstorming new ideas and messing with creations pertaining to brand and sub-brand coming soon…shhhh! All in all, if I’m not calling it a night which is around 11ish PM I’m just watching skate videos, chatting on phone and sometimes browsing the gram in full (yeah 7 days’ worth) lol otherwise thinking of next post and pre-making in case following day get crazy at work and I find no real time to relax. I’m a normal guy.
Thank you for talking with us & wish you the best of luck with Hungry Bear Hardware Co. Is there anything you want to say to someone that wants to start their own brand?
If I’m going to offer any advice in regards to starting a brand that makes sure it’s something you truly want to do, something you’re going to put effort into by all means and know that nothing comes easy and what you put in will determine your outcome. Be yourself again I repeat be yourself because real recognize real and your personality is what makes you and your brand unique. Lastly, remove anything from your life that doesn’t build and or big you up and appreciate those who’ve never given up and continue to support you. Thank you for your time…peace!
