Our Founders
Richard “Green” Geist
Richard is a creative entrepreneur in New York City. Born Summer of Love in Toronto, Canada, Richard rode for the The Canadian National Cycling Team throughout Europe. He was quickly nicknamed the “ambassador on wheels.” With his skills in leadership, teamwork, and innovative thinking, Richard launched Uncle Sam’s Vintage Fashion Stores. Geist opened revolutionary locations in Malls throughout New York state. Known for his outgoing disposition, philanthropic projects, and his ability to intuitively connect talented people, Richard is able to transform ideas into reality with his optimistic drive. Active in his community, he has been a board member of the local business improvement district, The Village Alliance and helped launch Friends of Greenwich Village, an inclusive charity project. Currently, Richard is focused on PPE donations to frontline workers and expanding his “original green” military surplus inventory to grow into America’s Largest sustainable fashion brand - GEiST.
Michael “Voice” Hainey
(CCO -Chief Communication Officer)
Michael Hainey is a writer and editor. For two decades he was the deputy editor of GQ, where he led it to numerous national awards. He also advises fashion and lifestyle brands. and A native of Chicago who now lives in New York with his wife, he is also the author of the New York Times best-selling memoir, “After Visiting Friends.”
Brook “Kreative” Bergland
(CCO -Chief Operations Officer & Brand Boss)
BB: Brook is a Global Creative Director with 20+ years of product creation expertise. He grew up in Eugene, Oregon and later moved to France to study Fashion Design & Pattern Making at E.S.M.O.D.. He has had the good fortune to work for the likes of Rick Owens, Jay-Z, and Converse and specializes in sustainability, innovation and culture. Brook currently lives with his wife in their Brooklyn apartment.
