We had the good fortune of connecting with Shonda Broadus and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shonda, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued a creative career because I have always yearned for the freedom to express myself through my creations. The ability to bring my unique ideas to life and have the autonomy to explore various avenues of creativity is what truly drives me. Additionally, the prospect of having my own business allows me to fully immerse myself in my passion and take ownership of my creative endeavors.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would say that I’m an artist whose creations exude a distinctly cool and contemporary vibe. Mad Cool specializes in crafting comfortable, bold, and fashion-forward socks that are as stylish as they are cozy.
With Sunroof KiKi artistic prowess extends beyond socks. Every collection of stickers and art prints will transport you back to the whimsical magic of the 80s and 90s. Drawing inspiration from this nostalgic era, with both business I try to creates captivating designs that seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with a hint of retro charm.
As fas as being faced with challenges. While I understand that there were and will be challenges along the way, I believe that my dedication and passion for my craft has helped me overcome them. Balancing a full-time job, being a wife, parent, and a grandparent while pursuing my creative endeavors undoubtedly presented its own set of challenges. My ability to navigate these challenges to me demonstrated my resilience and passion for creating. I kept and will keep pushing forward and embracing every opportunity that comes my way.
I feel as if my brand story would read like this. Once upon a time, in a vibrant world of creativity, Mad Cool was born. Founded by a black woman, Mad Cool emerged as a brand that fearlessly embraced boldness, color, and eclecticism. With a strong commitment to inclusivity, Mad Cool seeks to create a space where everyone can find a piece of themselves within its designs. Driven by a passion for pushing boundaries, Mad Cool has set out to become more than just a brand—it aspires to become a full-fledged streetwear powerhouse.
By Immersing herself in what she loves, the founder pours her heart and soul into every stitch, print, and detail. In this ever-evolving journey, Mad Cool strives to be more than just a brand—it aspires to be a beacon of self-expression, empowerment, and diversity.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A heartfelt shout out to my incredible husband, whose unwavering support has been the bedrock of my creative journey. To my local supporters, thank you for standing by me and embracing my vision. And to Visa, thank you for selecting me for the “2022 She’s Next in Fashion” grant. It was an honor to be recognized and supported by such a prestigious organization. And last but not least, to every single person who has purchased from my company, thank you for being a part of my creative journey. Your support fuels my passion and inspires me to keep pushing boundaries.
Website: Imjustmadcool.com
Instagram: @shopmadcool and @sunroofkiki