By: Richard Lewis
His journey began with a devastating diagnosis. Told by doctors he likely would fail in losing the weight necessary to manage his health, Terry defied expectations by dropping over 100 pounds. But it didn’t stop there. He turned his transformation into a lifestyle brand—Evolve Gear—a line of clothing designed to inspire, endure, and evolve with its wearer.
The road wasn’t smooth. In 2022, a horrific car crash sidelined his operations. Multiple fractures and a concussion threatened not only his physical health but also his mental and entrepreneurial stability. Yet, Terry leaned on faith, his family, and his brand mantra: “To Win, Lose Fear.” Through grit and grace, he made his way back.
Evolve Gear is more than apparel. It’s activism stitched into every seam. With designs like “W.A.N.O.A,” that pay tribute to ancestral strength, Terry uses fashion to tell stories of injustice, perseverance, and legacy. He reminds the culture that while we may be far from where we started, we’re still climbing—and doing it together.
With the unwavering support of his wife and powerhouse publicist Desirae L. Benson, Terry is gearing up for the next chapter of impact. Whether he’s mentoring, designing, or testifying to the power of resilience, one thing is clear: Terry Beard is a changemaker who leads by example—and he’s just getting started.
Q&A: The Journey of Terry Beard, Founder of Evolve Gear 2020
Terry, your journey from a Type II diabetes diagnosis to launching a successful clothing line is truly inspiring. What was the turning point that made you decide to turn your transformation into a brand?
For years, my New Year’s resolution was always the same: to lose weight. I wasn’t alone in that struggle—so many people around me needed motivation, including myself. When I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes, I honestly thought it was a death sentence. My doctor told me I weighed 297 pounds and needed to lose at least 50, though he didn’t believe I could. That made me determined to prove him wrong. I didn’t just lose 50—I lost 100 pounds and have kept it off, staying between 207 and 217. Years later, I ran into that same doctor, and he didn’t even recognize me. That moment symbolized everything I had overcome, and it inspired me to create something that could motivate others: Evolve Gear.
Evolve Gear is rooted in perseverance, discipline, and resilience. How do those values show up in your designs and the message behind your apparel?
I’m my own harshest critic. I hold myself to the highest standards, and I ensure that my clothing reflects the same level of quality. I want every customer to feel the strength and endurance that Evolve Gear represents. People tell me all the time that our shirts hold up under extreme conditions—they don’t fade, tear, or give out. That kind of durability is intentional. It’s not just clothing—it’s a statement.
You’ve survived both a global pandemic and a life-altering car accident. What kept you grounded and motivated through those intense setbacks?
God. Honestly, it’s only by His grace that I’m still here. Everyone—from the officer at the scene to the emergency room team—told me I was lucky to be alive. After the accident, I didn’t know what would happen to me—physically, financially, or in business. But through prayer, patience, and perseverance, I kept going. I believe I’m here for a purpose, and I’m committed to fulfilling that purpose.
Your latest vision is deeply intertwined with the current cultural and political climate. How are you using fashion as a form of activism and storytelling in this new chapter of Evolve?
Fashion is a combination of activism and idealism. Our ancestors paved the way for us, facing injustices and hardships so we could have the freedom of choice and self-expression. My father, for example, worked on the railroad in the 1950s and couldn’t even share lodging with his white coworkers. Today, I travel, work, and live in spaces they couldn’t even access. I never forget that.
That’s where “W.A.N.O.A” comes in—an acronym that honors those who came before us and their sacrifices. We’re standing on their shoulders, and it’s our turn to push forward. Today, we have Black millionaires, leaders, and visionaries unafraid to speak up, organize, and demand change. Evolve Gear isn’t just about clothes—it’s about pushing the culture forward.
Building a brand while healing physically and mentally isn’t easy. How has your recovery shaped your leadership and approach to entrepreneurship?
The car accident nearly killed me. I was hit head-on at 60 mph. My right hand was fractured, my left rib cracked, and I suffered a severe concussion. I had to pause my business just to survive. But I leaned on my own brand’s mantra: “To Win, Lose Fear.” If I didn’t live by that, I’d be a hypocrite.
The physical pain was intense, but the emotional toll was just as hard. Depression crept in. I had to fight to keep believing, praying, and pushing forward. That’s what made me a better leader—someone who not only inspires but also understands what it means to rebuild from the ground up.
What’s next for Evolve Gear and for you personally as a designer, storyteller, and changemaker?
I’m pushing forward like a Mack Truck with no brakes. I believe in this brand and its mission. I’ve got big plans, and with Desirae Benson—my phenomenal publicist—and my amazing wife by my side, there’s no stopping us. Please check out evolvegear2020.com and be part of this journey.
Instagram: @EvolveGear2020
For media and publicity requests, contact Desirae L. Benson.
Published by Joseph T.
