Episodes
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup isn't just the biggest soccer tournament on the planet — it's happening right here, and the energy is unlike anything America has seen before. In this special episode of Shoe-In Show, hosts Matt Priest, Andy Polk, and Jolie Gracia take a step back from the business of footwear to celebrate the moment. Fresh from experiencing matches firsthand, they share what it felt like inside the stadiums, the unexpected joy of cultural exchange, and what the explosion of soccer culture in America means for fans, brands, and the industry at large. From the global atmosphere to the growing footprint of the beautiful game on American soil, this is a conversation about more than soccer.
With special guests:
Andy Polk, FDRA and Jolie Gracia, FDRAHosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA -
What happens in Washington doesn't stay in Washington — especially if you're in footwear. In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Christie sits down with Thomas Crockett, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at FDRA, to pull back the curtain on one of the most consequential forces shaping the industry today. Before joining FDRA, Thomas served as Legislative Counsel on Capitol Hill, where he handled trade, foreign relations, and government reform. That experience now drives his advocacy for the footwear industry on tariffs, trade policy, customs, and product safety. Thomas breaks down what government relations actually means for footwear brands, why trade policy has never been more relevant, and what every business in this industry needs to understand about how Washington impacts their bottom line.
With special guest:
Thomas Crockett, Senior Vice President, Government Relations, FDRA
Hosted by:
Christie Horan, FDRA -
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What does it look like to spend a career at the top of the footwear industry and then dedicate yourself to making sure others can follow? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Matt Priest and Sabria Butler sit down with Portia Blunt, Board Chair of the Black Footwear Forum, for a candid conversation about her remarkable journey through footwear — from the Marine Corps to New Balance and Reebok to founding Bee Blunt. Portia shares what she saw as she rose through the ranks of major sportswear brands, and how that shaped her commitment to the Black Footwear Forum and its mission to build community, representation, and real pathways for BIPOC professionals in footwear. This is a conversation about craft, culture, and what it truly means to open doors for the next generation.
With special guest:
Portia Blunt, Board Chair, Black Footwear Forum and CEO and Founder, Bee Blunt
Hosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA and Sabria Butler, FDRA -
How did Crocs evolve from a simple foam clog to a global footwear icon? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Anne Mehlman, Executive Vice President and Brand President, Crocs, shares her journey from CFO to brand leader and reveals the secrets behind the brand's unstoppable growth. From bold collaborations and social media buzz to the power of customer feedback, discover how Crocs continues to redefine casual comfort and culture. Tune in for exclusive insights, innovative strategies, and the story behind building an iconic brand—one Jibbitz at a time!
With special guest:
Anne Mehlman, Executive Vice President and Brand President, Crocs
Hosted by:
Matt Priest, President, FDRA and Sandi Mines, Vice President, FDRA
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Meet Jolie Gracia, Marketing and Events Coordinator at FDRA, who went from marketing graduate at UNC Greensboro to managing all four annual FFANY Market Week cycles, supporting the FFANY Pop-Up Showroom, and helping drive social media for both Shoes for a Cure and the Black Footwear Forum. In this episode, Jolie shares how she found her way into the footwear industry, what her day-to-day really looks like, and what she loves most about the community she serves. A fun, candid conversation about the people and energy that keep this industry moving forward.
With special guest:
Jolie Gracia, Marketing and Events Coordinator, FDRA
Hosted by:
Christie Horan, FDRA -
What makes handcrafted Western boots a symbol of culture and craftsmanship? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, Matt Priest dives into the rich heritage of Texas boot-making with Cindy Morris of the Dallas Market Center and Ryan Vaughan of Rios of Mercedes. They explore the synergy between family-owned brands, the resurgence of Western wear, and how cultural trends are reshaping the industry. Discover the stories behind stunning craftsmanship and the exciting future of Western fashion that's capturing the hearts of a new generation.
With special guests:
Cindy Morris, President and CEO, Dallas Market Center and Ryan Vaughan, President and CEO, Rios of MercedesHosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA -
In this episode of Shoe In, Andy Polk shares his journey from politics to footwear, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and a solutions-oriented mindset. Discover how the FDRA team collaborates to tackle industry challenges, the evolving dynamics of consumer behavior, and the critical role of understanding supply chains. Andy's insights into balancing creativity with practical business strategies will inspire anyone interested in the future of footwear.
With special guest:
Andy Polk, FDRA
Hosted by:
Christie Horan, FDRA -
Are consumers moving away from athletic footwear or simply redefining what "casual" means? On this episode of Shoe In Show, Thomas and Christie sit down with Bryan Eshelman, Americas Leader of Retail, AlixPartners to break down key findings from the latest AlixPartners consumer footwear survey. From price sensitivity and inventory challenges to the growing demand for versatile, durable footwear, the conversation explores how consumer expectations are shifting and what brands and retailers need to do to keep up.
With special guest:
Bryan Eshelman, Americas Leader of Retail, AlixPartners
Hosted by:
Thomas Crockett, FDRA and Christie Horan, FDRA
FDRA members can email [email protected] to gain access to the survey. -
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 conversation highlights how collaboration, operational scale, and strategic alignment can unlock new opportunities in marketing, manufacturing, and long-term growth.
With special guests:
Rick Muskat, President, COO Deer Stags Concepts, Inc. and David Schwartz, CEO, Jack Schwartz ShoesHosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA and Andy Polk, FDRA -
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 bold colors to playful details, this conversation offers a forward-looking perspective on what's next in footwear and what consumers will be reaching for in the seasons ahead.
With special guests:
Jolie Gracia, Marketing and Events Coordinator and Christie Horan, Marketing and Media CoordinatorHosted by:
Sandi Mines, Vice President, FDRA, Corporate Engagement President, FFANY -
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 how the program works, who it's for, and how you can get involved.
Hosted by:
Andy Polk, Senior Vice President Executive Director, Footwear Innovation Foundation, FDRA and Christie Horan, Marketing and Media Coordinator, FDRA -
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 manufacturing today. With attention to unique sizing and exceptional materials, Grant Stone aims to redefine the essence of quality footwear. Don't miss this insightful conversation!
With special guest:
Wyatt Gilmore, Founder and CEO, Grant Stone
Hosted by:
Matt Priest and Sandi Mines -
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 suppliers. Listeners will gain insights into managing costs and expectations amidst uncertainty, making this a must-listen for anyone in the footwear business.
FDRA Members: Reach out to [email protected] for a link to the report.
With special guest:
Gary Raines, Chief Economist, FDRA
Hosted by:
Matt Priest, President & CEO, FDRA and Andy Polk, Senior Vice President, FDRA -
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, and support scalable growth. For footwear brands navigating today's complex supply chain, this conversation offers a practical look at turning logistics into a competitive advantage.
With special guest:
Brent Barkin, Executive Vice President, ShipSigma
Hosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA and Thomas Crockett, FDRA -
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 refocusing on its core strengths—quality craftsmanship, comfort innovation, and authentic brand storytelling—while rebuilding trust with retailers and reconnecting with the modern consumer.
From navigating industry disruption to rediscovering what made the brand iconic in the first place, Taylor offers candid insight into leadership, brand turnaround, and the evolving future of footwear.
With special guest:
Neal Taylor, CEO Americas, ECCO
Hosted by:
Matt Priest, FDRA and Sandi Mines, FDRA -
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 chronicled in Sole Survivor, he offers candid insight into resilience, brand building, and what it truly takes to survive—and succeed—in the footwear industry.
This episode explores the realities of entrepreneurship, the evolution of retail, and the mindset required to build lasting brands.
With special guest:
Daniel Rubin, Founder, Dune Footwear
Hosted by:
Andy Polk, FDRA -
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-moving retail environment. This conversation offers a practical look at leadership in action — and the mindset required to shape what's next in footwear.
With special guest:
Mark Lardie, President and CEO, Rack Room Shoes
Hosted by:
Matt Priest and Andy Polk -
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 to retail, and how comfort, craftsmanship, and transparency are reshaping what modern consumers expect from premium sneakers.
With special guest:
Scott Gabrielson, Founder, Oliver Cabell
Hosted by:
Matt Priest and Sandi Mines -
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 work. This chapter looks at legacy not as something left behind, but as something actively built through the next generation of creators, leaders, and innovators.
Powered by Jones & Vining, this episode closes the series with a thoughtful look at growth, transition, and what's next for one of footwear's most influential design voices.
With special guest:
Wilson W. Smith III, Footwear Design Director
Hosted by:
Matt Priest -
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 collaboration throughout his career. This episode explores how purpose influences creativity, how belief fuels resilience, and why the strongest design decisions often come from clarity within. Powered by Jones & Vining, this conversation offers a rare look at the human side of innovation — and the values that sustain it.
With special guest:
Wilson W. Smith III, Footwear Design Director
Hosted by:
Matt Priest - Show more
