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Matthew Carpenter
Founder + CEO at Driveway Paradise
Matthew Carpenter is the Founder and CEO of Driveway Paradise, a sportswear brand based in Los Angeles, California. He launched the company in July 2021, focusing on retro-inspired athletic apparel that utilizes innovative, plant-based fabrics and recycled materials. The brand aims to evoke nostalgia for outdoor play and casual sports, drawing from Carpenter's own experiences growing up as an athlete in Dayton, Ohio, where he played football at Northwestern University.12
Professional Background
Before establishing Driveway Paradise, Carpenter worked extensively in the entertainment industry. His career included roles such as:
- Producer at Studio71, where he developed content for notable YouTube channels, including those of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
- Associate Producer and Assistant to the President at Studio71, contributing to both scripted and non-scripted digital content.12
Carpenter's transition from entertainment to sportswear was motivated by a desire to engage more with the physical world rather than the digital space. He found that there was a lack of stylish yet functional clothing suitable for casual athletic activities, which inspired him to create Driveway Paradise.23
Educational Background
Carpenter attended Northwestern University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Radio, Television, and Film from 2011 to 2015. He also briefly studied at Queen Mary University of London in 2013.1
Brand Philosophy
Driveway Paradise emphasizes sustainability and affordability while maintaining a connection to the nostalgic elements of youth sports. Carpenter has expressed a commitment to ensuring that his products are accessible to his community, reflecting his belief in creating quality apparel without exorbitant pricing.23