GNY EP.171 | feat. Bert "The Shirt" Auf from Scholars & Champs
In this episode of Good News York, host Noah Chrysler sits down with Bert Aufsesser — better known as "Bert the Shirt" — the founder and owner of Scholars & Champs, a one-of-a-kind vintage Syracuse University merchandise store located right in the heart of Syracuse, NY. Originally from San Diego and a proud Syracuse University alumni, Bert shares the fascinating journey that led him from working the floors of Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s in Beverly Hills to opening his own beloved vintage SU gear shop seven years ago.
Bert takes us inside the world of Syracuse sports culture — explaining why the Orange isn’t just a college team, but a way of life for the entire region. He dives deep into what makes Scholars & Champs truly special: the rare, high-quality vintage pieces you simply can’t find anywhere else, from 2003 national championship merchandise to incredibly rare cartoon collaborations featuring the Flintstones, Looney Tunes, Mickey Mouse, and more. Bert also sheds light on the history of the Saltine Warrior — Syracuse’s former Native American mascot — and why that vintage merchandise has become so sought after by collectors and fans alike.
We also hear about Bert’s unique procurement process (trade secrets included), what it’s like moving from sunny California to one of the snowiest cities in America, and the pure joy he gets from spotting customers out in the wild wearing pieces they picked up from his store. Plus, Bert gives us the details on Scholars & Champs’ exciting 7th Anniversary Sale event — 25% off the entire store, special giveaways, and refreshments.
Whether you’re a die-hard Syracuse fan, a vintage streetwear enthusiast, or just someone who loves a great local business story, this episode is for you.
Chapters:
0:00 – Teaser: Syracuse fans live and die by their teams
0:17 – Welcome & Introduction
1:10 – Bert introduces himself & the origin of Scholars & Champs
1:25 – The 7th Anniversary Sale event details
2:20 – The story behind opening the store
3:10 – Bert’s background in retail fashion
3:45 – The best part of running the store
4:25 – Syracuse sports culture & what makes it unique
5:30 – Recent finds & what’s hot in the store right now
6:10 – How Bert sources his vintage merchandise
7:10 – Most common vs. rarest finds
7:45 – What is the Saltine Warrior?
8:15 – Cartoon collaborations explained
8:50 – Moving from California to Syracuse
9:25 – What’s next for Scholars & Champs
9:42 – Where to find Scholars & Champs online
10:00 – Why you should shop at Scholars & Champs
10:30 – Closing remarks & sponsor shoutouts
🛍 Find Scholars & Champs:
🌐 scholarsandchamps.com
📱 Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter: @scholarsandchamps
📺 Good News York
Good News York is a show dedicated to highlighting the people, businesses, and stories that make Central New York great. New episodes regularly.
🌐 www.goodnewsyork.com
🎬 Produced by Clickstream Studios
Clickstream Studios is a full-service content marketing agency based in downtown Syracuse, NY (located in the old Spaghetti Warehouse). From video production to websites, online sales, and digital marketing — they do it all. Want a free marketing plan? They’ll sit with you for 45 minutes, learn your business, and hand you a custom plan at no cost.
🌐 www.ClickStreamStudios.com
📣 This episode is sponsored by Ads on the Go
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