Shoe-In

On this episode of Shoe In Show, industry veterans Rick Muskat and David Schwartz join the conversation to discuss the recent integration of Deer Stags into Jack Schwartz Shoes. Together, they explore how shared values, complementary strengths, and decades of family leadership led to a partnership designed to navigate today's challenges—from tariffs and logistics to shifting market dynamics. The c...

What footwear trends will define Spring 2027? In this episode, Sandi Mines, Jolie Gracia, and Christie Horan explore the styles shaping the season — from festival-driven looks to the continued influence of moto boots and Western silhouettes. They break down the return of classic ballet flats, the evolution of mules and sandals, and how fresh sneaker designs are balancing comfort with style. From b...

What does it take to turn a footwear idea into a real-world product? In this episode, Andy Polk and Christie Horan break down the Footwear Innovation Foundation's Footwear LaunchPad—a program designed to connect emerging talent with industry leaders. From engineers to entrepreneurs, LaunchPad brings together diverse minds to solve real challenges and shape the future of footwear. Tune in to learn...

What makes a shoe brand truly stand out in a noisy market? In this episode, Matt Priest and Sandi Mines dive deep with Wyatt Gilmore, Founder and CEO of Grant Stone, to explore heritage, craftsmanship, and the intricacies of sourcing footwear globally while maintaining quality. Discover how Wyatt's familial ties to the industry influenced his journey and how he navigates the challenges of global m...

How are current geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices reshaping the footwear industry? In this episode of Shoe In Show, Matt Priest, Andy Polk, and Gary Raines delve into how the ongoing war with Iran affects costs throughout the supply chain, from raw materials to retail prices. They explore the urgent implications of behavioral economics, tariff realities, and production challenges facing...

On this episode of Shoe In Show, Brent Barkin, Executive Vice President of ShipSigma, shares how brands can rethink shipping as more than just a cost. Drawing from his experience launching and scaling ShoeStation.com, along with leadership roles across retail, e-commerce, and logistics, Brent explains how data, carrier strategy, and operational discipline can unlock efficiency, improve margins, an...

On this episode of Shoe In Show, Neal Taylor, CEO of the Americas for ECCO, joins the show to discuss what it takes to guide a heritage footwear brand through reinvention. With a background that includes leadership roles at Reebok, Red Bull, and Hanesbrands, Taylor brings decades of experience across sportswear, retail, and global brand strategy. In this conversation, he shares how ECCO is refocus...

On this episode of Shoe In Show, Daniel Rubin, Founder of Dune Footwear and author of Sole Survivor, shares the entrepreneurial journey behind building one of the UK's most recognizable footwear brands. Daniel reflects on the highs and challenges of scaling a global fashion business, navigating retail disruption, and the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy. Drawing from the experiences c...

On this episode of Shoe In Show, Mark Lardie, President and CEO of Rack Room Shoes, shares insights on leadership, transformation, and navigating growth in today's footwear landscape. Drawing from decades of industry experience, Mark reflects on what it takes to guide teams through change, balance operational discipline with long-term strategy, and build brands that remain resilient in a fast-movi...

What happens when finance meets fashion—with comfort at the center? On this episode of Shoe In Show, Scott Gabrielson, Founder of Oliver Cabell, shares how his brand is challenging traditional footwear models through tech-driven design, a direct-to-consumer foundation, and a disciplined no-funding approach. Scott reflects on his journey from finance to fashion, Oliver Cabell's evolution from DTC t...

In Part 4 of 4 of Shoe In Show's Behind the Design: A Masterclass in Sneaker Design, legendary Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III reflects on life after one of the most influential careers in footwear. Wilson shares how his perspective on design, leadership, and impact has evolved beyond Nike — and what it means to continue shaping the industry through mentorship, storytelling, and purpose-driven w...

In Part 3 of 4 of Shoe In Show's Behind the Design: A Masterclass in Sneaker Design, legendary Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III shares the personal foundation behind his work — from faith and conviction to the mindset required to lead creatively at the highest level. Moving beyond product and performance, Wilson reflects on the inner drivers that shaped his approach to design, leadership, and col...

In Part 2 of 4 of Shoe In Show's Behind the Design: A Masterclass in Sneaker Design, legendary Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III explores how athlete storytelling extends far beyond basketball. Wilson shares the origin story of Serena Williams' iconic tennis boot, revealing how fashion, personality, and performance came together to redefine tennis footwear. He also reflects on designing for Andre...

What's it like designing shoes for Michael Jordan? In this episode of Behind the Design: A Masterclass in Sneaker Design, powered by Jones + Vining, legendary Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III joins Matt Priest to unpack the creative process behind crafting signature footwear for iconic athletes. From MJ's relentless drive and attention to detail to Wilson's lessons in listening, humility, and pas...

In this episode of Shoe-In Show, industry veteran Rick Blackshaw introduces STOKE Shoes, a new footwear brand built for real American men. Designed with wider fits, slip-on ease, and humor-driven marketing, Stoke challenges "Big Sneaker" by putting comfort first. Rick shares the inspiration behind the brand and how Stoke is redefining everyday footwear for beer runs, ball games, and beyond. With s...

How is Dearfoams redefining comfort and style in footwear? Shoe-In Show hosts Andy and Sandi chat with Justine Suh, president of Dearfoams at RG Barry Brands, about innovation in slippers, expanding into Gen Z and men's markets, and building brand relevance through humor and heritage. Don't miss her insights on product strategy, customer connection and leading with purpose. With special guest: Jus...

What does the footwear industry's latest inventory surge reveal about broader economic trends? In this episode of Shoe In Show, hosts Matt Priest and Gary Raines dive deep into inventory strategies amidst evolving consumer behavior and tariffs. With inventory levels hitting a two-year high, they explore how data collection from publicly traded companies is informing industry outlooks. Discover the...

What do ski lifts, 90s boots, and flat-earth challenges have in common? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Tim Boyle, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Columbia Sportswear, joins the conversation to share stories that span nostalgia, innovation, and leadership. Tim reflects on the legacy and relaunch of the iconic Bugaboot, how Columbia continues to push product innovation forward, and what it...

Ready to tackle 2026 with purpose? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, the FDRA team shares their personal and professional resolutions—from fitness goals to historical deep dives—while unpacking what's ahead for the footwear industry. From emerging trends and trade dynamics to big-picture planning for the year ahead, this conversation blends insight, humor, and optimism. Tune in for inspiration, a f...

Curious how the footwear industry thrived during a chaotic year? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, the FDRA team looks back on the biggest wins of 2025 — from data breakthroughs and dynamic industry events to record-breaking charitable initiatives. Hear how innovation, connection, and a little shoe trivia helped bring the footwear community together during a year of constant change. With special gu...

Listen and get a front-row look at how a new footwear program delivering fresh thinking is fueling the next chapter of industry growth. In this episode of Shoe-In Show, host Andy Polk is joined by Alan Lugo and Michael Seeley of the Liminal Group, to introduce the Footwear Launchpad — a new initiative designed to surface breakthrough ideas from around the world. They discuss how Liminal Group and...

We're wrapping up 2025 with the best moments from our Footwear Leadership Series powered by Ortholite. This special episode highlights standout insights from top industry leaders — including Todd Krinsky of Reebok, Susie Kuhn of Wolverine Worldwide, Danny Ewoldsen of Johnston & Murphy, Tara McRae of PUMA, Josue Solano of BBC International, Natalie White of Moolah, Kris Wright of Jordan Brand, and...

How do footwear brands stay compliant in a world of ever-growing chemical regulations? In this episode of The Shoe-In Show, Matt Priest and Thomas Crockett welcome Eurofins experts Pratik Ichhaporia and Devender Singh to explore Prop 65, chemical testing, and the challenges of recycled materials. Learn how smart testing strategies, supply chain mapping, and proactive compliance help protect both c...

How does a Liverpool footballer's son become the global brand president of Saucony? In this inspiring episode of the Shoe-In Show, Rob Griffiths joins hosts Matt Priest and Andy Polk to share his journey from elite athlete to footwear executive. Hear how sport shaped his leadership philosophy, how Saucony balances innovation with heritage, and what it takes to keep a legacy running brand ahead in...

Curious about the footwear trends set to define 2026? Join Sandi Mines, Christie Horan and Jolie Gracia as they spotlight must-have styles—from mules and Mary Janes to bold sneakers, embellished heels and classic boots. This episode of FFANY Footwear Trend Watch dives into materials, standout details and how fashion-forward choices meet comfort. Step into what's next. With special guests: Jolie Gr...