Fire Footwear: Sneakers Talk (with Matt Frates)
Step into the world of sneakers with host Matt Frates. Each week, we unravel the unique stories behind the sneakers and the culture. From iconic designs to influential figures, discover fresh perspectives and in-depth discussions on the sneakers that shape our world. If you live for sneaker talk and crave insightful takes, this is your go-to podcast. This podcast is brought to you by the Matty Ice Media Network. Presented by the Matty Ice Media Network. Matty Ice Media Network: https://www.mattyicemedia.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Episodes
With all the hype buzzing about the return of sneakers and sneaker hype, it's a good time to look at what defines the economy of sneakers. Is it just buzz around a release or two? Or is it more? Matt checks in.
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New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
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Sneakers is an expensive hobby with a large culture. There is a LOT to learn as you navigate. That knowledge can be a barrier to entry, and at times might be seen at gatekeeping. Matt talks through how he might be able to help.
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New episodes every Friday.
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The Jordan releases in 2025 have been hot, heavy, and steeping in history. On the surface it appears we are all getting what we want, but underneath the hood it seems much more intentional. Are we being conditioned into copping out of FOMO? Matt weighs in.
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New episodes every Friday.
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It's no surprise that 2025 in sneakers has started out hot. Between limited stock and fighting at releases, the question has popped up all over of "has the feeling been restored in sneakers?". Matt gets on his soap box to talk about what the feeling is to him and how we can bring it back.
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New episodes every Friday.
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Stories in the sneaker news about violence at sneaker releases, Joe Freshgoods creating good will, and Yeezy going up in flames (again). Matt breaks it down.
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New episodes every Friday.
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In sneaker culture, there are colorways and silhouettes that are universally beloved. Lately Matt has been wondering if all of them still hit the same in 2025? To find out, he asked YOU what you thought. Tap in to find out what the people had to say.
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Like what you hear? Help this content grow: https://ko-fi.com/firefootwearpod
New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a futur...
After a back and forth with a listener of the pod, Matt dives into some recent examples of exclusivity and hype. The question is, does this symbolize a rise in sneaker hype?
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New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
Follow Fire Footwear on Instagram: https://www.inst...
The topic of representation and leadership in sneakers has been rampant. Matt invites DeVante to talk this through. Who are leaders in sneakers to you?
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Sneaker culture has changed fundamentally over the years, like many cultures do. How is the big question? Matt gives you five observations he has made.
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New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
Follow Fire Footwear on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firefootw...
With the turnover into a new year, many make New Year's resolutions. After the success of last year's episode, Matt is back with five sneaker resolutions he is looking to uphold in 2025. What are some of yours?
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New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
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The new year has turned over and 2025 promises to be great! Matt breaks down the prosperous year that was 2024 and looks ahead to what 2025 has in store for both sneakers and the podcast. Happy New Year everyone!
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New episodes every Friday.
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At the end of each. year, sneaker culture debates on what the sneaker of the year is. While it's all completely subjective, Matt gives some of his favorites in a decent year for sneakers.
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New episodes every Friday.
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The Black Cement Jordan 3 is high regarded as one of the best Air Jordans of all-time. The release of the 2024 retro has been nothing short of controversial. The stories of lacking quality and inconsistency beg the question of whether sneaker lovers should voice with their wallets more loudly going forward. Matt checks in with his thoughts.
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StockX is facing significant challenges as it grapples with its ability to authenticate sneakers, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the resale market. Matt gets into the implications of StockX's admission that it cannot guarantee the authenticity of the shoes it sells, especially in light of the lawsuit from Nike.
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DJ Clark Kent, sneaker icon, passed away at the age of 58. He was a true sneaker icon. Matt briefly goes into his legacy, and how he will be remembered by sneaker culture.
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Like what you hear? Help this content grow: https://ko-fi.com/firefootwearpod
New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
Follow Fire Footwear on Instagram: https://www.insta...
Matt sits down with Chris Chase, the main personality of WearTesters. While both love sneakers, this chat goes down the rabbit holes of life and nerdom. Even if you come as a sneaker lover, this conversation will leave you feeling good.
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Co.JP, or Concept Japan, has played a pivotal role in shaping international sneaker culture over the last two decades, a fact that many sneaker enthusiasts may overlook today. Host Matt dives into the history and significance of Co.JP, highlighting how its exclusivity and innovative designs contributed to the global sneaker phenomenon.
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Nigo's recent collaboration with Nike raises the question of its significance in 2024 sneaker culture. Host Matt delves into the impact of Nigo, a pivotal figure in streetwear and sneaker history, and discusses whether his influence still resonates with today's audience.
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New episodes every Friday.
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Nike is making significant changes in leadership and strategy, aiming to reshape its image and reconnect with sneaker culture. Host Matt Frates discusses the recent appointment of new CEO Elliot Hill and the return of influential figures like Frank Cook and Tom Sachs, highlighting their potential impact on the brand's creative direction.
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John Donahoe, former CEO of Nike, resigned last week with Elliott Hill to take over. Nike has been seen an uncool brand over the last year, but will this change in CEO get that back to their perceived legendary status?
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Like what you hear? Help this content grow: https://ko-fi.com/firefootwearpod
New episodes every Friday.
Call and give your sneaker stories or opinions to be highlighted on a future episode: +1-(202)-643-9170
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