Brief Talk Podcast – Sweet Inspiration: The Story Behind Pan Dulce Papis Swimwear

pan dolce 

In this episode of the Brief Talk Podcast, UNB Tim sits down with Jesse Pellegrin, the founder of Pan Dulce Papis, a new swimwear brand designed specifically for thicker, beefier guys who want more than the same old boring black swim briefs.

The idea for the brand started at a gay pool party in Las Vegas, where Jesse noticed a familiar pattern: muscular guys had access to all the fun, colorful swimwear, while thicker men were often left with limited and uninspiring options. That moment sparked the idea to create something different — swimwear that celebrates bigger bodies with bold designs, culture, and personality.  

Drawing inspiration from his Mexican heritage, Jesse created designs influenced by pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread), playful imagery, and vibrant colors that bring culture and humor into swimwear. The result is a brand that blends confidence, authenticity, and representation for guys who rarely see themselves reflected in swimwear marketing.

Jesse also shares the behind-the-scenes realities of launching a brand solo — from designing patterns and ordering prototypes to building the website and even stepping in as the model when the original shoot fell through.

What started as a fun idea has become a growing brand with new designs already on the way, including a limited Pride edition swim brief inspired by colorful Santa Monica sunsets.

Most importantly, Jesse wants his brand to help people feel comfortable in their bodies and confident wearing swim briefs — whether at a pool party, the beach, or anywhere else.

As Tim says in the episode: thick boys look amazing in Speedos — and it’s time the industry caught up.

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In This Episode

• How a Vegas pool party sparked the idea for Pan Dulce Papis

• Why thicker guys are often overlooked in swimwear design

• Bringing Mexican culture into swimwear design

• The meaning behind the brand name

• Designing swimwear that is fun but still approachable

• The challenges of launching a brand solo

• Modeling your own product when the model cancels

• Why authenticity matters more than retouching photos

• Creating confidence for bigger guys wearing swim briefs

• Sneak peek