#508 Footwear's New Innovation and Talent Engine

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 the Footwear Innovation Foundation built the new footwear launchpad program and how it is transforming the industry's approach to innovation — expanding access for emerging talent and startups, while shaping the future of footwear design, technology, and collaboration. With special guests: Alan Lugo, Founder, alanandres, LLC and Michael Seeley, Founder and Managing Director, Liminal Group Hosted by: Andy Polk

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 Dan Sheridan of Brooks Running — sharing their perspectives on leadership, culture, and what it takes to guide today's major footwear brands. Catch the highlights here, and listen to full episodes at shoeleaders.com. With special guests: Todd Krinsky, President & CEO, Reebok Susie Kuhn, President, Active Group Brands, Wolverine Worldwide Danny Ewoldsen, President, Johnston & Murphy Tara McRae, President & Managing, Director, PUMA Josue Solano, Chief Executive Officer, BBC International Dan Sheridan, Chief Executive Officer, Brooks Running Kris Wright, Vice President, Jordan Footwear Natalie White, Founder, Moolah Kicks Hosted by: Christie Horan, Media and Marketing Coordinator, FDRA, Matt Priest, President & CEO, FDRA, and Andy Polk, Senior Vice President, FDRA

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 consumers and brands. Learn more: https://www.eurofins.com  With special guests: Pratik Ichhaporia, Vice President of Technical Services, Eurofins Consumer Products North America and Devender Singh, Global Innovations and Technical Director, Eurofins Hosted by: Matt Priest and Thomas Crockett

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 today's competitive market. With special guest: Rob Griffiths, Global Brand President, Saucony Hosted by: Matt Priest and Andy Polk

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 Gracia, Marketing and Events Coordinator, FDRA and Christie Horan, Marketing and Media Coordinator, FDRA Hosted by: Sandi Mines, President, FFANY

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 policy changes, and what the future holds for global footwear supply chains. With special guest: Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer, Port of Long Beach Hosted by: Matt Priest, FDRA

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 government stats. Tune in for practical insights, market trends, and strategic takeaways to help you navigate 2026 with confidence. With special guest: Gary Raines, Chief Economist, FDRA Hosted by: Andy Polk, FDRA

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 conversation explores how culture, community, and commerce have made Western not just a trend, but a lasting lifestyle. With special guests: Cindy Morris, President & CEO, Dallas Market Center and Sharon Carpenter, VP of Sales, Ariat International Hosted by: Matt Priest and Christie Horan

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 of laughs, insights, and shoe talk, this 500th episode is a heartfelt thank-you to the listeners, leaders, and legends who made it all possible. With special guests: Matt Priest, President & CEO, FDRA, Andy Polk, Senior Vice President, FDRA, Thomas Crockett, Senior Vice President, Government Relations, FDRA, Christie Horan, Marketing and Media Coordinator, FDRA, and Blake Althen, Partner, Human Factor Related links: Natalie White Episode Josue Solano Episodes Bob Campbell Episode Mike Piza Episodes Andy Gilbert Episodes Kris Wright Episode Susan Itzkowitz Episode Oliver Hede Episode Alan Lugo Episode Jung Yoon Episode Wilson Smith III Episode Cliff Sifford Episode 311 Episode Ambassador Michael Froman Episode Chris Hillyer Episode Footwear Leadership Series powered by Ortholite

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 industry change. Tune in for fresh insights into how data, design, and innovation come together to make shoes that feel as good as they look. With special guest: Justin Ter Har, Director of Research & Design, INSITE Hosted by: Andy Polk