Episode 20- Linda Schlesinger-Wagner

After more than 30 years in the apparel industry, Michigan native Linda Schlesinger-Wagner, was  inspired to create a brand that filled a void she felt existed in the women's apparel industry. In 2009,  skinnytees (TM) started with a single one-size-fits-most silhouette, the seamless camisole. Schlesinger-Wagner didn't stop there and quickly rolled out a complete line of essential styles that helped redefine  the smooth wear industry. Through the years, skinnytees has grown, and is now firmly rooted in the  belief of offering a product for all women - all sizes, all colors, and all ages.  

Prior to the launch of skinnytees, Schlesinger-Wagner successfully ran several fashion brands, including  Rainbow Lollipop, a high-end children's boutique, Annie's Antics, a children's knitwear collection and  Annie M Designs, a women's knitwear line. Through her dedication, skinnytees were named to Corp.  Magazine's Economic Bright Spot Award in 2017, Inc. Magazine's 5000 Greatest Entrepreneurs of 2017,  MichBusiness's Retail Sensations of 2018, and has made numerous appearances on Good Morning  America's Deals & Steals. Schlesinger-Wagner is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small  Businesses Program and the Edward Lowe Foundation.  

Schlesinger-Wagner is also a longtime advocate for women's and children's charities, actively working  with a multitude of nonprofits such as The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Super Saturday, and the  Make-a-Wish Foundation. She has served as a Co-Chair for Jewish Vocational Services: Women to Work  Program since 2017, when she was honored. She has been involved in the non-profit Pictures of Hope,  where she received the Salvation Army Angel Award. She has also been a board member of the Detroit  Garment Group since 2019, and is a 2021 Honoree of the Pillars of Birmingham.