Happy Friday Amigos,

Welcome to the fifth edition of JM’s Weekly Roundup. A quick hit of what’s new at La Matera and a few things I’ve been stoked about lately.

TL;DR:

La Matera Win: Polo Exóticos launch off to a hot start — some of my favorite belts we’ve ever made.

Collaboration I’m Stoked For: Filson x Blundstone — two heritage icons come together for a rugged Chelsea boot.

Where We’ll Be: Setting up shop with Ball and Buck at American Field inside the YETI store downtown for F1 weekend.

Book I Can’t Put Down: Who Is Michael Ovitz? — lessons on vision, leadership, and building something from scratch.

Weekend Wisdom: “Service is black and white, hospitality is color.” A reminder to add the human touch in everything we do.

A La Matera Win – Polo Exóticos Off to the Races

Our new Polo Exóticos launch has been one of the strongest we’ve had in a while — and for good reason. These have quickly become some of my personal favorites we’ve ever made. Each belt blends rich Italian leather with that embossed faux-exotic texture that catches the light just right. They’re bold, refined, and totally unique — the kind of belt that gets noticed without trying too hard.

If you haven’t checked them out yet, now’s a good time. The early response has been incredible, and I wouldn’t be surprised if a few styles disappear fast.

Collaboration I’m Stoked For – Filson x Blundstone

Two heritage heavyweights is teaming up this week: Filson x Blundstone. The collab delivers a rugged, weatherproof Chelsea boot that blends Filson’s tough-as-nails materials with Blundstone’s timeless silhouette. Think waxed leather uppers, Vibram soles, and that “ready for anything” look both brands are known for.

It’s rare to see a collaboration where the DNA of both brands shines through this cleanly. Whether you’re in the city or out in the Hill Country, this one nails the balance of function and style.

Local Austin Activation – American Field x YETI (Austin F1 Weekend)

Big weekend here in Austin — American Field is setting up shop at the YETI Flagship downtown, and we’re teaming up with our amigos at Ball and Buck to be part of it. If you’re in town for F1, swing by. It’s shaping up to be a killer lineup of brands, good people, and plenty of energy in the city.

We’ll have a full spread of La Matera belts on hand, so come say hey and pick one up in person.

Book I Can’t Put Down – Who Is Michael Ovitz?

I’m almost through Who Is Michael Ovitz? and it’s been one of those books I can’t put down. Ovitz was the co-founder of CAA — the powerhouse talent agency that reshaped Hollywood — and his story is full of lessons on vision, deal-making, and building something from scratch.

What I like about it is how it blends business strategy with the art of relationships. It’s a reminder that behind every big move, there’s usually someone quietly pushing, connecting, and executing at a high level. If you’re into books about leadership and building from the ground up, this one’s worth the read.

Weekend Wisdom – “Service is black and white, hospitality is color.”

That’s from Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara — one of my all-time favorite reads. The idea stuck with me because it applies far beyond restaurants.

Service is the task — getting someone what they asked for. Hospitality is the feeling — how they feel while you’re doing it.

Whether it’s a customer unboxing a new belt, a partner brand setting up for an event, or even just our own team working in the warehouse, there’s always a chance to add “color.” The small gestures that make things feel human and memorable.

It’s something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately — how to build brands, relationships, and experiences that go beyond the expected.

That’s it for this week. As always, I appreciate you being here and following along. On to the weekend.

Cheers,
JM

Jon-Mark Craddock
CEO

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Originally sent through JM's Substack on 2025-10-17.