November 3, 2025 • 61 mins
In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Chris Conrad, the founder and owner of Republic Boot Co., a Houston-based bootmaker dedicated to preserving and celebrating Texan heritage through handcrafted cowboy boots. After spending time abroad, Chris returned to follow a "divine calling to save Texas" by starting his company in 2011.
We dive into Chris's journey, which began with deep family roots in Houston’s Heights dating back to the late 1800s. We discuss how his experience in Italy shaped his appreciation for culture and craft , and how his background in engineering and oil & gas brings a unique, process-driven approach to the artistry of boot-making. Chris shares the mission behind Republic Boot Co.'s immersive retail space—part museum, part saloon, part workshop—designed to make people feel a distinct connection to Texas heritage.
As an outdoorsman himself, Chris discusses how hunting has impacted his life and values. We explore the often-misunderstood role of hunters as stewards of the land and protectors of cultural heritage. Chris connects the spirit of the hunt—patience, respect, and self-reliance—to the philosophy of Republic Boot Co. , and how the boots he makes are designed to be heirloom products that carry the spirit of those stories and values.
Tune in to hear how Chris balances handcrafted quality with business growth , how he captures customers' personal stories in a custom boot , and what it means to him to be "saving Texas" beyond the business itself.
Learn more about Chris Conrad and Republic Boot Co.:
Website:https://www.republicbootcompany.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RepublicBootCo
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/republicboot1836/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-conrad-5479451a/
Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.
We dive into Chris's journey, which began with deep family roots in Houston’s Heights dating back to the late 1800s. We discuss how his experience in Italy shaped his appreciation for culture and craft , and how his background in engineering and oil & gas brings a unique, process-driven approach to the artistry of boot-making. Chris shares the mission behind Republic Boot Co.'s immersive retail space—part museum, part saloon, part workshop—designed to make people feel a distinct connection to Texas heritage.
As an outdoorsman himself, Chris discusses how hunting has impacted his life and values. We explore the often-misunderstood role of hunters as stewards of the land and protectors of cultural heritage. Chris connects the spirit of the hunt—patience, respect, and self-reliance—to the philosophy of Republic Boot Co. , and how the boots he makes are designed to be heirloom products that carry the spirit of those stories and values.
Tune in to hear how Chris balances handcrafted quality with business growth , how he captures customers' personal stories in a custom boot , and what it means to him to be "saving Texas" beyond the business itself.
Learn more about Chris Conrad and Republic Boot Co.:
Website:https://www.republicbootcompany.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RepublicBootCo
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/republicboot1836/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-conrad-5479451a/
Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.
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