Empowering Current and Future Women Warriors - Haley McClain Hill of TORCH Warriorwear
We caught up with recent Founders Live Minneapolis winner Haley McClain Hill of TORCH Warriorwear…
Please introduce yourself!
Haley McClain Hill is an award winning entrepreneur, 2x former NFL Cheerleader, and United States Air Force Veteran.
Her 2 companies TORCH Warriorwear & Seek and Set Free have partnered with companies such as AAFES, The Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders, and 49ers Gold Rush Cheerleading Team.
She's recently won the 2022 Veteran Shark Tank Pitch Competition where she received a $50,000 grant. She also is now the 2023 Founders Live Minnesota Pitch Competition Winner. She has been invited to speak at multiple military focused events such as The NYC USO’s Fleet Week and The Joint Women’s Leadership Symposium.
She has cheered over 100 NFL and collegiate football games and gives back to the cheer and dance space by offering workshops at academies and pro cheerleading team retreats.
She's advised startup fashion brand companies, led over 300+ airmen while she was a 1st Lieutenant in the Air Force, and even has appeared on the game show “Beat Shazaam”!
How did you discover Founders Live?
My friend Ben Garland introduced me.
Tell us about your Founders Live pitching experience
Participating in the Founders Live Pitch Competition in Minnesota was an exhilarating experience, filled with adrenaline and excitement as I stepped in front of the live crowd, ready to showcase my brand, TORCH Warriorwear, alongside other incredible companies. The atmosphere was electric, and the challenge of going head-to-head with such amazing contenders made the event even more thrilling. Surrounded by talented entrepreneurs and innovative minds, I felt both inspired and challenged, pushing me to give my best. Against all odds, my business emerged victorious, a testament to the hard work and dedication of my team. Throughout this journey, I had the privilege of meeting exceptional individuals who have generously shared their expertise and support, propelling my business to new heights. I am profoundly thankful for their guidance and the invaluable experience of the pitch competition, which has not only bolstered my business but also enriched my entrepreneurial spirit.
What two tips can you share about crafting a winning Founders Live 99-second pitch?
Crafting a winning Founders Live 99 Second pitch requires precision, passion, and a clear communication strategy. Here are two essential tips to help you deliver a compelling pitch:
Clarity and Conciseness: In a 99 Second pitch, every word counts. Clearly articulate your business idea, focusing on its unique value proposition and the problem it solves. Be concise and avoid jargon. Use simple language to explain your concept, making it accessible to everyone in the audience. Emphasize the impact of your solution and how it addresses a specific need in the market. A clear, concise pitch captures attention and ensures that your audience understands the essence of your business within the limited time frame.
Engage Emotionally: While you have limited time, use it wisely to create an emotional connection with your audience. Share a relatable story or scenario that highlights the problem your business aims to solve. Use models and props for fun visuals! Engage your audience's emotions by explaining why your solution matters and how it can make a difference in people's lives. Passion is contagious, so let your enthusiasm for your business shine through. Authenticity and genuine excitement about your venture can leave a lasting impression on the judges and the audience, making your pitch memorable and impactful.
By combining clarity with emotional engagement, you can craft a powerful Founders Live 99 Second pitch that captivates your audience and increases your chances of winning the competition. Remember to practice your pitch thoroughly to ensure you can deliver it confidently and convincingly within the given time limit.
Please describe TORCH Warriorwear and why you’re building it
TORCH Warriorwear is a subscription, direct to consumer military apparel and lifestyle brand that celebrates, empowers, and serves current and future generations of Women Warriors.
We are committed to helping these warriors looks, feel, and perform at their best— 24/7, 365 days, all over the world.
We create technically advanced apparel and products that feature an unmatched combination of comfort, durability, functions and style— all made by a warrior for warriors.
In doing so, we have redefined what being a modern day warrior is— giving rise to our tagline: for and by modern day women warriors.
What is your vision? Go out 5 years, what does the world look like with your product or service in it?
Our vision is to transform the way women look and feel in their military uniforms by creating innovative, modern female uniform solutions. Looking five years ahead, we see a world where TORCH Warriorwear has become an integral part of everyday military life for women warriors, seamlessly enhancing efficiency, convenience, and overall quality. Military women thrive with our uniform solutions, in every stage of their career, regardless of environment and are reaching unprecedented levels of productivity and confidence. Individuals experience a new standard of comfort as they incorporate our products into their routines. Through widespread adoption, we envision a global community that is more connected, empowered, and engaged, all thanks to the transformative influence of our brand.
What ONE thing do you need help with the most, and what do you want to ask from the Founders Live community?
Mentorship! I would love to connect with other successful e-commerce fashion brand CEO/Founders to help guide me on this path.
Identify three qualities that when combined make a great founder.
A great founder possesses a unique combination of qualities that contribute significantly to the success of their venture. Here are three essential qualities that, when combined, make a great founder:
Visionary Leadership
A great founder has a clear and compelling vision for the future. They possess the ability to see opportunities where others see challenges. This visionary perspective allows them to set ambitious goals and inspire their team and stakeholders. They can articulate their vision in a way that motivates others to get on board and work toward a common goal. Visionary leaders are not just focused on the present; they anticipate future trends and market demands, guiding their company on a path of innovation and long-term growth.
Resilience and Perseverance
Building a successful business is rarely a smooth journey. Great founders have the resilience to withstand setbacks, learn from failures, and keep moving forward. They view challenges as opportunities to learn and improve, rather than insurmountable obstacles. Even in the face of adversity, they remain steadfast, adapting their strategies and approaches as needed. Their determination and perseverance inspire the team, instilling a sense of confidence and commitment to overcoming hurdles together.
Exceptional Decision-Making Skills
Great founders are skilled decision-makers who can weigh the pros and cons of various options and make informed choices. They gather relevant information, consult with experts when necessary, and trust their instincts. Decisive founders are not afraid to make tough decisions, even in uncertain situations. They understand that indecision can be detrimental to the progress of the business and, therefore, have the courage to make timely and well-considered choices. Additionally, they are open to feedback and can pivot their strategies based on the evolving needs of the market and their customers.
When these qualities are combined, a great founder can lead their company with a clear vision, navigate challenges with resilience, and make strategic decisions that propel the business forward. This combination of visionary leadership, resilience, and exceptional decision-making skills forms the foundation for a successful entrepreneurial journey.
If you could go back to the beginning and talk to your “rookie founder” self, what would you say?
If I could go back and advise my "rookie founder" self or offer guidance to someone in that position, I would emphasize a few key points:
Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Don't fear failure; instead, see it as a valuable teacher. Every setback offers a chance to learn, iterate, and grow stronger. It's through failures that some of the most significant lessons are learned, leading to better decision-making and ultimately, success.
Build a Strong Support Network: Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and a supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs. Seek guidance from those who have walked the path before you. Their insights can provide perspective, solutions to challenges, and emotional support during tough times. Additionally, being part of a community allows you to share experiences, learn from others' mistakes, and celebrate each other's victories.
What areas do find most challenging?
Some of the most challenging areas of entrepreneurship often include:
Time Management: Balancing various aspects of the business, from product development to marketing and customer support, can be overwhelming. Prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively is crucial. Learning to delegate and trusting your team is also essential.
Decision-Making: Rookies might find it daunting to make significant decisions, especially those that could impact the future of the business. It's crucial to research thoroughly, seek advice when needed, and trust your instincts. Remember that decisions don't need to be perfect; they need to be made with the best information available at the time.
Financial Management: Managing finances, including budgeting, cash flow, and fundraising, can be challenging, particularly for those without a financial background. Seeking the help of a financial advisor or accountant can provide invaluable assistance in navigating this area.
Building a Team: Hiring the right people and creating a motivated, cohesive team is a common challenge. It's not just about finding individuals with the right skills but also those who align with your company's values and vision. Cultivating a positive work culture and fostering open communication can aid in team building.
Adaptability: The business landscape is ever-changing. Adapting to market shifts, technological advancements, and customer preferences requires continuous learning and a willingness to pivot your strategies when necessary.