Five Minutes With Nathan — Foundational Q&As

Read the last updates and news about our brand and line of products.

Five Minutes With Nathan — Foundational Q&As

What inspired you to start SaikōVerse?

SaikōVerse was born from the evolution of my first brand, Kanji Clothing Designs. I created close to 100 Kanji designs with meaning and messages that people could relate to whether it was their name or belief system. What started as a passion project focused on translating Japanese Kanji into wearable art soon grew into something bigger—a movement.

The word Saikō (最高) means “the best,” “supreme,” or “awesome,” but for me, it represents that euphoric moment of achievement when hard work finally pays off. I wanted to create a brand that captures that feeling—where creativity, culture, and purpose collide. Saikōverse became the next chapter of that journey, carrying the DNA of Kanji Clothing Designs but expanding its meaning into a lifestyle—a mindset of being “crazy good by design.”

How did your background in media and storytelling shape your clothing brand?

Before launching SaikōVerse, I built stories for small businesses through Promethean Media Group—video production, photography, and brand storytelling. That foundation taught me how emotion connects with an audience. Now I use that same skill set to tell stories through apparel design. Each shirt, hoodie, or pump cover isn’t just a product—it’s a message. It’s wearable storytelling.

 

What does the phrase “Crazy Good by Design” mean to you?

It’s the SaikōVerse philosophy. “Crazy Good by Design” means being obsessed with excellence. It’s that relentless pursuit to outdo yourself—not for recognition, but for mastery. Every logo, sketch, and campaign is designed with purpose and passion. The craziness lies in the commitment.  It's made literally for anyone, because everyone has the ability to be "Crazy Good"!

How do Japanese influences show up in your art and apparel?

I spent my childhood in Japan, surrounded by a culture that values precision, respect, and artistic expression in everything—from calligraphy to craftsmanship. Growing up there deeply shaped how I see design and meaning. I was always drawn to the strength and symbolism behind Japanese Kanji, the quiet power of sumi-e ink art, and the discipline reflected in Japanese philosophy.

I’ve grew up with the Japanese mindset that revolved around anime-level storytelling. You’ll see it in designs like “Shinigami,” “Ronin and Verse,” or the Saikō Oni masks. It’s a fusion of old-world honor and new-age ambition.

What message do you want people to feel when they wear SaikōVerse apparel?

Confidence. Purpose. Resilience. I want people to wear something that represents their journey—the battles they’ve fought, the dreams they’re still chasing. SaikōVerse isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. It’s for those who keep showing up, even when no one’s watching.

What advice do you have for someone starting their first clothing or media brand?

Start before you’re ready. Learn by doing. Don’t chase perfection—chase consistency. Build something that reflects you, not what’s trending. Invest in quality over quantity, and tell a story that resonates with your audience. That’s what builds brand loyalty and long-term trust.

What has been your biggest challenge so far—and what did it teach you?

Building trust in both media and fashion isn’t easy. There were moments when clients hesitated or sales were slow—but each challenge sharpened my persistence. I learned that real growth happens when you adapt without losing your core message. That’s how SaikōVerse keeps evolving.  I'm not afraid to inquire on how to improve my products or designs with individuals who wear my brand.  Case in point, the creation of the SaikōVerse Metal Logo was being open minded and listening to the people who are growing with my designs.

How do you see Saikōverse evolving over the next few years?

SaikōVerse is more than a brand—it’s a movement. I see it expanding into fitness wear, collaborations with local artists, and ambassador programs that highlight people who live the “crazy good” lifestyle. If you are struggling, yet fighting the good fight, we are meant for you.

What drives you every day to keep creating?

Impact. The idea that one design, one story, or one video could motivate someone to chase their dream—that’s what fuels me. I’ve been the person on the outside looking in. Now I want to create a space where others feel seen, inspired, and driven to become their best version.

What does success mean to you today?

For me, success isn’t about fame or financial milestones—it’s about freedom and impact. It’s having the freedom to create what I believe in, and knowing it genuinely connects with people. When someone messages me saying a SaikōVerse design motivated them to chase their goal or push through a tough day, that’s success. It’s proof that creativity, when fueled by purpose, can inspire real change.

How do you stay motivated when things get difficult?

I remind myself of why I started. There have been plenty of moments where things didn’t go as planned—slow sales, late nights editing, or designs that didn’t land the way I imagined. But those are the moments that build character. I’ve learned that motivation isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s quiet persistence. My mantra is progress over perfection—because even small steps forward keep the vision alive.

Author Avatar
Nathan Labogen

Creator of SaikōVerse