Podcast
Collectors Gene Radio
Hosted by Cameron Ross Steiner · EN
Collectors Gene Radio is a deep dive into the nuances of collecting. Hear from collectors and experts from all over the world speak on their passions and hobbies, and ultimately find out whether or not they feel they were born with the "Collectors Gene".
36episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Alexia Ioannou - Giving "Nou" Purpose To Vintage Fashion & Homes
Jan 15, 202500:35:29Summary readyToday, we’re diving into the world of vintage fashion with Alexia Ioannou who has turned the act of collecting into an art form. She’s the founder of Nou, a boutique vintage studio that has become a go-to for tastemakers, stylists, and starlets alike. Since its launch in 2018, Nou has redefined what it means to shop vintage, offering ultra-rare, handpicked treasures that seamlessly blend heritage and modernity.Alexia’s journey is one of passion, intuition, and a deep love for the stories behind each piece she discovers. She grew up immersed in design, honing a discerning eye for craftsmanship and timeless style. From sourcing vintage shoes and bags that make you swoon to expanding Nou into homeware, her philosophy is clear: every item she shares carries intention, individuality, and a slice of her vision.She takes us through her evolution—from a young collector with a love for fashion history to a tastemaker who spends her days chasing the thrill of discovery. You’ll learn how she defines what’s “Nou-worthy,” what it’s like to curate for others, and how no matter what, she’s the customer. So without further adieu, this is Alexia Ioannou, for Collectors Gene Radio. Nou - https://shopnou.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqdxt6-qGbitVaEs2g-68qo9r5UhmGKGZFJnxE4EeoUPRmwms9G BohoChicken Blog - https://www.bohochicken.com/ Nou's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shopnou_/?hl=en Cameron's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameronrosssteiner/?hl=en CollectorsGene.com - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Chris Martin - 190 Years Of Making The Most Collectible Guitars
Jan 8, 202500:44:26Summary readyToday, I have the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Chris Martin, the sixth-generation CEO of Martin Guitars. For nearly 190 years, the Martin name has been synonymous with music, and their iconic guitars have graced the hands of some of the world's most legendary musicians. But the question we explore today is, what is it that has allowed this storied brand to remain at the pinnacle of excellence for nearly two centuries?The answer lies in Chris Martin IV, who has led the company for over 40 years, all while remaining steadfast to the legacy that has defined Martin from the very beginning. Chris is, by nature, a collector, and upon joining the family business, it became clear that his passion for preservation would extend to Martin's rich history. He has meticulously gathered some of the brand's most prized instruments from the most renowned collections and has created a museum to house them—a museum that is anything but traditional. Rather than a sterile, glass-encased gallery, the Martin Museum invites visitors to engage with the guitars, some of which can even be played. And as we’ll learn during our conversation, Chris is considering letting anyone play the guitars, in exchange for a donation to the Martin Foundation.Martin Guitars has long been hailed as the gold standard in the industry, and after spending time with the man at the helm, it’s easy to see why. So, without further ado, I’m honored to present Chris Martin, here on Collectors Gene Radio.Martin Guitar Company - https://www.martinguitar.com/CollectorsGene.com - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Enis Karavil - A Teapot Collection Worth Displaying
Dec 18, 202400:30:02Summary readyToday, I’m thrilled to introduce Enis Karavil, the visionary founder of the interior design firm Sanayi313 (Sah-Ny-EE), a studio celebrated for its distinctive blend of craftsmanship and storytelling in design.But today, we’re stepping beyond the world of interiors to uncover another layer of Enis’s creative soul: his remarkable collection of vintage teapots, lighters, and other storied objects. Enis doesn’t just collect; he curates with heart first, weaving narratives through the items he acquires—whether it’s a patinated silver teapot with a storied past or a vintage lighter that sparks conversation.We explore how his professional ethos intersects with his personal passion, the allure of patina and imperfection, and what it takes to build a collection that bridges art, history, and design. So without further adieu, this is Enis Karavil, for Collectors Gene Radio.Sanayi313 - https://sanayi313.com/en/Enis' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/eniskaravil?igsh=ZG56OXAwOHgyMW42Sanayi313 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sanayi313?igsh=eXA2b2ZhdWI5OTJkCollectorsGene.com - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Jake Arnold - A Masterclass On Redefining Comfort
Dec 11, 202401:03:04Summary readyToday, I’m thrilled to be joined by none other than Jake Arnold.From his British roots to his current homebase in Los Angeles, Jake has taken the interior design world by storm, earning a coveted spot on the AD100 list and redefining what it means to create spaces that are both luxurious and inviting. Without a formal degree in design, Jake carved his path through instinct, passion, and an unparalleled eye for detail, crafting interiors that feel effortlessly timeless.But Jake isn’t just transforming spaces—he’s transforming the way people access design expertise. As the founder of The Expert, a groundbreaking platform connecting homeowners with top-tier designers for virtual consultations, he’s making high-end design more collaborative and accessible than ever.We dive into Jake’s journey: from his first project to the inspirations behind his signature style, his love of collecting furniture, decor, and materials, and his career-defining collaborations with brands like Crate & Barrel, Lulu & Georgia, and Parachute. We’ll also chat about his recent coffee table book, Redefining Comfort, and the lessons he’s learned designing his own home. It’s truly an honor to have him on the show and I hope you all enjoy it just the same. So without further adieu, please welcome Jake Arnold, to Collectors Gene Radio.Jake Arnold - https://jakearnold.com/Collectors Gene - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Phil Toledano - The Conceptual & Creative Mind Behind Mr. Enthusiast
Dec 4, 202400:37:50Summary readyToday, I’m thrilled to welcome Phil Toledano, a man whose name has become synonymous with passion, creativity, and, of course, collecting. Known to many as Mr. Enthusiast, Phil is an artist, photographer, and a collector with a taste for the unconventional—his collections spanning watches & cars in a way that reflects his unique perspective on life and creativity. As an artist by trade, Phil has always approached collecting not just as a hobby but as an extension of his creative expression.Raised between London and Casablanca, his formative years gave him a truly global outlook, which is reflected in the way he curates his eclectic collection of cars and watches. In fact, it was a deeply personal moment—the day after his father passed away—that marked the beginning of his foray into car collecting, purchasing a Ferrari Dino in tribute to a man who, like him, had a profound connection to the world of art.Phil’s creative journey has been anything but linear. After a career in advertising, he began to take his passion for collecting more seriously, moving from one obsession to the next, always searching for the unique and the unexpected. Phil’s approach to collecting is as much about discovery and reinvention as it is about the items themselves. His own watch brand, Toledano & Chan, has garnered significant attention from collectors, affirming his place not just as a curator of fine things, but as a creator who deeply understands the culture of collecting.From the art he creates to the rare pieces he seeks, Phil’s approach to life as an enthusiast is truly one-of-a-kind.So without further ado, Phil Toledano, aka Mr. Enthusiast, for Collectors Gene Radio. Phil's Website - https://mrtoledano.com/ Phil's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/misterenthusiast?igsh=MTV6Zms2eDJiZG84dQ==Collectors Gene - collectorsgene.com
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Olive Ateliers - Curating The Past & Collecting The Future
Nov 27, 202400:48:39Summary readyOn the mic with me today are the Olive Ateliers trio of founders, Laura, Kendall, & Ben. If you’re familiar with the brand, you’ve seen that their meteoric rise in the realm of vintage and curated design has been nothing short of remarkable. From their humble beginnings out of their backyards to establishing a thriving in-person and online presence, they’ve navigated the landscape of collecting and community with grace and speed.We get to know the heart of Olive Atelier, discussing their passion for sourcing unique, globally-inspired items and how they’ve crafted a brand that resonates deeply with collectors. Their aesthetically pleasing brand isn’t just about the products; it’s a holistic experience that emphasizes thoughtful design and presentation. Each piece is meticulously curated, reflecting a blend of vintage charm and modern sensibilities, which enhances the shopping experience.We chat about the stories behind their curated selections, the psychology of their innovative drop model, and the emotional connections they forge with their customers. Their shopping experiences, both in-person and online, make you feel like you’re on the hunt in the middle of the European streets from which they source. Better yet, each item tells a story, as do the collectors and trade parents that choose them. So without further adieu, this is team Olive Ateliers, for Collectors Gene Radio.Olive Ateliers - https://oliveateliers.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopn_mDlRIycpL_A4ufb_vKofjXG496Q6XgTrB3f4-oxfy0H5bBXCollectors Gene Website - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Gary Striewski - From Seiko to SportsCenter With ESPN's Resident Watch Guy
Nov 20, 202401:05:37Summary readyToday I’m sitting down with ESPN and Sportscenter anchor Gary Striewski to discuss all things watch collecting. Gary got the bug early on when he noticed his father wearing a gold Seiko with his army fatigues and never got that image out of his head. Fast forward and as Gary’s career started to pave its way, so did his watch collection. He’s the guy you want representing your brand, simply because he loves this stuff. He’s walking proof that you can never have too many GMT’s and that being in the spotlight everyday doesn’t get you allocations, it’s your character that does the trick. He’s had the pleasure of being a guest on Hodinkee’s Talking Watches and his love for cars comes with the same passion he puts towards watches. We chat about how he’s ESPN’s resident watch guy now, citing the wrists of those at events like Formula 1 and the ESPY’s. It’s definitely not the last time you’ll be hearing from him on Collectors Gene Radio. But for now, please enjoy, this is Gary Striewski, for Collectors Gene Radio.Gary's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thekimchipapi?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Talking Watches with Gary Striewski - https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/talking-watches-gary-striewski
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Ray Azoulay - Obsolete Founder Curates Curiosity
Nov 13, 202400:50:11Summary readyToday I’m sitting down with Ray Azoulay, founder of Obsolete, one of the most well known and coveted antique furniture stores around. Ray got his start in the fashion world, ultimately becoming a director at Macy’s & Liz Clairborne. He made the decision to buy 40 acres in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and started collecting furniture, art, and photography. Ray’s always had a good eye, so he decided to take his talents to Los Angeles and open up Obsolete. Over the years, Obsolete has been a second home to A-Listers like Cheryl Crow, Ellen Degeneres, Barbra Streishand, and many more. In fact, Ellen once told Ray that his phone number was the only one she’s remembered by heart. He’s been featured in 1stDibs and many other publications showcasing not only the items he collects and sources, but his hand picked interior design projects. But what gets Ray really excited to continue sourcing furniture and the obscure, is that whether it’s you, the collector, or someone in the public eye, we continue to put our trust in his taste. Oh, and he has a 3 digit bonsai collection. So please enjoy, this is Ray Azoulay, for Collectors Gene Radio.Obsolete - https://www.obsoleteinc.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/obsoleteinc/?ref=badgeCollectors Gene Website - https://collectorsgene.com/
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Doug Bihlmaier - Head of Vintage & Consultant: Ralph Lauren
Oct 31, 202400:55:55Summary readyToday I’m in East Hampton, New York to sit down with arguably one of the greatest collectors of all time. In fact, his career has revolved around collecting as the Head of Vintage, now consultant, for Ralph Lauren and we can attribute our love for western and layered looks to him. Doug Bihlmaier is my guest today, and for his first ever video interview and podcast, I was more than thrilled to sit down with him in his home and spend the day together with him and his wife. Growing up in Kansas, Doug fell in love with denim and began collecting early on. But it’s not that simple. Doug noticed Levis’ started to change their fit, so as one collector does, he starts hunting for the old stuff. But that’s what has made Doug the person we all look up to today.He’s always had the foresight as to what’s next, which is exactly what happened when he was introduced to the Ralph Lauren brand early on. Doug has spent his career traveling the world hunting for vintage goods for the stores and had anyone looked behind the curtain of the early days at the RRL store, you would have seen Doug curating one of the most impressive collections around. He recalls going to warehouses in the UK and finding old equestrian and oil paintings in gilt frames that no one wanted, and riding boots, and wool blankets from the 20’s and 30’s, and just about everything else that makes up the Ralph Lauren brand today.However, it’s not just searching the world for objects that makes Doug, well Doug. His design, architecture, and merchandising prowess have all played a big role in why we all admire Doug, and you can feel, touch, and breathe that when you walk into any Ralph Lauren and RRL store. As for Doug, well, his home is filled and layered with wool blankets, vintage denim and flannels, Native American jewelry and objects, books, you name it. And he can tell you everything you need to know about each of them.I truly feel honored to share this interview with you all, but even more grateful to call Doug a friend. So without great honor, this is Doug Bihlmaier, for Collectors Gene Radio.YouTube Video - https://youtu.be/O-dEkHd01gQ?si=ys_nbCdiXy9vvgy-
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Kevin O'Leary aka Mr. Wonderful
Oct 16, 202400:49:31Summary readyKevin O’Leary aka Mr. Wonderful is my guest today. The Shark Tank star and collector truly needs no introduction. He’s become a collector extraordinaire getting the stamp of approval from envy-worthy brands and artisans ranging from Simon Brette and FP Journe, to Fender & Montblanc. We talk about the importance of relationship building, the nuances between all the things he collects, and how brands should be looking at their future customer base. He’s a story teller, investor in many ways other than the conventional, and always there to tell you like it is, in true Mr. Wonderful fashion. And to top it all off, we did it inside the walls of a place my Grandfather built. So without further adieu, this is Kevin O’Leary, aka Mr. Wonderful, for Collectors Gene Radio.YouTube Video - https://youtu.be/6vJPc2qOkHwCollectorsGene.com - https://collectorsgene.com/Cameron's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameronrosssteiner/?hl=enCollectors Gene YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7fZDvQUNBCunvCe_ieXeYAKevin O'Leary's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kevinolearytv?lang=enKevin O'Leary's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kevinolearytv/Kevin O'Leary's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/KevinOLearyManhattan Motorcars - https://www.manhattanmotorcars.com/Edited by Rego - https://www.instagram.com/r.ego?igsh=bzR6eWVhZGhpcGQz Filmed by Enock Brothers - https://www.aenock.com/
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