#510 Stepping Into 2026: Trends, Trade, and Team FDRA

Ready to tackle 2026 with purpose? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, the FDRA team shares their personal and professional resolutions—from fitness goals to historical deep dives—while unpacking what's ahead for the footwear industry. From emerging trends and trade dynamics to big-picture planning for the year ahead, this conversation blends insight, humor, and optimism. Tune in for inspiration, a few laughs, and a bold look at what 2026 has in store for footwear. With special guests: Sandi Mines, Thomas Crockett, Gary Raines, and Christie Horan Hosted by: Matt Priest and Andy Polk

Curious how the footwear industry thrived during a chaotic year? In this episode of Shoe-In Show, the FDRA team looks back on the biggest wins of 2025 — from data breakthroughs and dynamic industry events to record-breaking charitable initiatives. Hear how innovation, connection, and a little shoe trivia helped bring the footwear community together during a year of constant change. With special guests: Thomas Crockett, Sandi Mines, Gary Raines, and Christie Horan Hosted by: Matt Priest and Andy Polk

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