Shoe-In

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...

What's driving record U.S. footwear imports despite tariffs and inflation? In this special rebroadcast from the Port of Long Beach's Supply Chain Insight series, host Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Long Beach, sits down with Matt Priest, President of FDRA, to discuss the forces shaping today's global "shoeconomy." They unpack consumer resilience, sourcing shifts, trade polic...

Are consumers pinching pennies or powering through? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, FDRA Chief Economist Gary Raines joins Andy Polk to break down the latest data on spending, sentiment, and retail behavior. From diluted toothpaste to record credit card debt, Gary reveals what small signals say about a jittery consumer—and how brands can plan smarter amid economic uncertainty and flawed gover...

Why is Dallas the epicenter of Western footwear and fashion? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, hosts Matt Priest and Christie Horan sit down with Cindy Morris, President & CEO of the Dallas Market Center, and Sharon Carpenter, VP of Sales at Ariat International, to unpack how the Western industry found its home in Texas. From the pandemic-era migration that brought brands to Dallas to the categ...

In this milestone edition of the Shoe-In Show, hosts Matt Priest, Andy Polk, Thomas Crockett, Christie Horan, and producer Blake Althen look back on the incredible path from humble beginnings to becoming the global voice of the footwear industry. Join the celebration as the team revisits fan-favorite moments, shares behind-the-scenes stories, and welcomes surprise celebrity shoutouts from friends...

How do you prove a shoe is truly comfortable? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, Justin Ter Har of INSITE joins host Andy Polk to reveal how biomechanics, real-life testing, and podiatrist-approved design are reshaping the way shoes are made. From sustainability and lab-driven innovation to building longer-lasting footwear, Justin shares why proven comfort matters more than ever and how science...

What does it take to shape sneaker culture from the inside out? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, industry legend Ronnie Wright, Founder of Papa Samone and former Jordan Brand leader, joins the conversation with Matt and Andy. Ronnie shares powerful insights from his time building one of the most iconic brands in footwear, dives into the role of storytelling and empathy in design, and explains...

Are holiday shoppers really starting earlier than ever? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, Matt Priest and Andy Polk break down FDRA's 2025 Holiday Footwear Survey, uncovering surprising shifts in consumer behavior. They explore the balance of online vs. in-store shopping, how inflation and tariffs are reshaping spending, and what brands should watch as the season unfolds. Along the way, they ma...

Can trillions in tariffs be refunded? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, Matt Priest and Thomas Crockett dive into a landmark Supreme Court case that could reshape U.S. trade policy. They unpack the stakes of the case, explore the possible outcomes, and explain what it could mean for presidential power, economic strategy, and the footwear industry. Most importantly, they share what companies sho...

How are global logistics and shifting tariffs reshaping holiday footwear shipments? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, FDRA's Matt Priest sits down with Apex Logistics' Mike Piza and Jeff Yu to break down the state of supply chains heading into peak season. From air vs. ocean freight and the impact of inflation on consumer demand to navigating tariffs and supply chain uncertainty, the conversati...

What's really happening with Europe's new sustainability rules, and how will they impact U.S. footwear brands? In this episode, Lenzing's Dr. Danijela Cafuta Korn joins host Andy Polk to break down the latest developments in EU sustainability policy. Tune in to learn why the details matter for global footwear brands, what U.S. companies must do now to stay compliant and competitive, and how they c...

How will AI reshape the future of retail? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, Google's Paul Tepfenhart, Global Director of Retail & Consumer Strategy & Solutions, joins hosts Matt Priest and Andy Polk to break down how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing everything from customer personalization to store operations. From practical AI use cases and the biggest data challenges facing retailer...

What happens when passion meets performance in women's basketball? In this final episode of the Shoe-In Show Leadership Series, Moolah Kicks founder Natalie White shares her dynamic journey from college startup to game-changing footwear brand. Discover how she's driving innovation, breaking barriers and scaling rapidly amid a surge in WNBA popularity. A must-listen for anyone inspired by bold lead...

What happens when sneaker design meets Capitol Hill? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show, iconic Nike designer Wilson Smith III shares insider stories from "Sneaker Day" in Washington, D.C., reflects on his unexpected path from architect to footwear legend, and reveals how faith, art, and improvisation shaped his work with Michael Jordan. Don't miss this powerful blend of passion, purpose and desi...

How did cold calls and Harlem hustle lead to the top of Jordan Brand? In this Shoe-In Show Leadership Series episode, Kris Wright, VP of Jordan Footwear, shares his inspiring journey—from finding his first internship in the White Pages to leading one of the most iconic brands in the world. Hear how resilience, culture, and mentorship shaped his career and leadership style. Powered by OrthoLite. Wi...

What drives innovation and resilience in today's ever-changing footwear industry? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Aldo Product Services President Jonathan Frankel shares his journey from the world of action sports to leading global footwear brands like Sperry. With decades of experience scaling brands through licensing, digital leadership, and strategic retail partnerships, Jonathan offers sharp...

What happens when a high school teacher and basketball coach becomes the CEO of a top running brand? In this episode of the Shoe-In Show Leadership Series powered by Ortholite, Dan Sheridan, CEO, Brooks Running shares how his background in coaching, commitment to team culture, and passion for innovation have shaped his 27-year journey in the footwear industry. Hear Dan's insights on leadership, br...