Shoe-In
Covering the ins and outs of all things footwear, from sneakers to heels, loafers to slippers and every type of shoe in between. Brought to you by the FDRA and FFANY, the footwear industry's associations focused on retail, trade, politics and fashion…helping create and enhance conversations on all things footwear.
Episodes
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 category's ongoing growth, the conversat...
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 of the show. After nearly a decade ...
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 is driving the next wave of industr...
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 why bold ideas and collaboration m...
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 make bold predictions, share fresh in...
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 should be doing now to prepare. Tune i...
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 conversation offers insider tips, emerging tr...
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 can future-proof their strategies. D...
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 retailers to what's next in 2025 and beyond...
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 leadership. Powered by Ortholite.
With ...
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 design.
With special guest:
Wilson Smit...
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.
With special guest:
Kris Wright, Vice...
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 insights into what it takes to stay...
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, brand growth, and developing the next...
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