Build a Business Worth Buying

On this episode of Build a Business Worth Buying, host Aaron Alpeter sits down with Curtis Matsko, the unconventional CEO and founder of Portland Leather Goods—a brand famous for its cult following, vertical integration, and refusal to follow the typical startup playbook. Curtis shares the behind-the-scenes story of transforming a garage side-hustle into a nearly $200 million business, all without raising venture capital.You’ll hear how Curtis doubled revenues year after year, why he believes setting almost impossibly high goals matters, and how he built a winning team and culture rooted in creative risk-taking, authenticity, and a relentless focus on quality. Along with his assistant Mariana, Curtis candidly unpacks the hard decisions—like shutting down top-selling sales channels and boldly investing in in-house manufacturing—that set Portland Leather apart from the competition.

Show Notes

On this episode of Build a Business Worth Buying, host Aaron Alpeter sits down with Curtis Matsko, the unconventional CEO and founder of Portland Leather Goods—a brand famous for its cult following, vertical integration, and refusal to follow the typical startup playbook. Curtis shares the behind-the-scenes story of transforming a garage side-hustle into a nearly $200 million business, all without raising venture capital.

You’ll hear how Curtis doubled revenues year after year, why he believes setting almost impossibly high goals matters, and how he built a winning team and culture rooted in creative risk-taking, authenticity, and a relentless focus on quality. Along with his assistant Mariana, Curtis candidly unpacks the hard decisions—like shutting down top-selling sales channels and boldly investing in in-house manufacturing—that set Portland Leather apart from the competition.

What is Build a Business Worth Buying?

Build a Business Worth Buying brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, M&A experts, and successful founders. Learn advanced strategies to scale, optimize, and prepare your business for an acquisition—because building a business worth buying starts with smart decisions today.