Shoe-In Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America (FDRA)

This is a fun episode featuring Matt Nakari, Sales Director at Centric Software, a shoe dog helping companies better manage their data to help them improve operations and decisions. Matt shares how the company is making data collection easy while focusing on sustainability and speed in the footwear industry. We discuss the importance of breaking down departmental silos, the potential of AI in footwear, and the universal challenges faced across different industries while developing a product. Tune into this episode packed with informed perspectives and engaging discussions.
With special guest:
Matt Nakari, Sales Director at Centric Software
Hosted by:
Matt Priest and Andy Polk

In this episode of Shoe-In, Matt shares fresh insights from his recent visit to Vietnam, discussing the changing manufacturing and business landscape. Hear about his experiences at Wolverine Worldwide's Supplier Summit, and uncover insights from his visit to innovative supplier, Ortholite. Discover the rising concerns of factories amidst shifting American consumer behaviors and explore the future of innovative and sustainable operations in the industry. This episode is a goldmine for anyone keen on understanding global sourcing dynamics.
Hosted by:
Matt Priest and Andy Polk

Industry vet, Chris Hillyer joins the show to discuss the current state of footwear innovation, sharing insights into what's really moving the dial for brands. We cover innovative approaches to challenges, the future of footwear manufacturing, the dynamics of market changes, and new tools being used to transform brands. We also touch on AI's actually uses for footwear. A show not to be missed!
With special guest:
Chris Hillyer, Footwear Innovation Consultant
Hosted by:
Andy Polk

Michael McCauley, owner and operator at Fleet Feet, joins to share key insights into his running shoe store in Augusta, Georgia. We chat about the running brands best connecting consumers, the changing operations of their retail store, which includes extensive training for new employees, and lengthy customer service processes to find the perfect footwear and build a consumer profile. McCauley also shared insights on running retails evolution, noting how their customer base has shifted from 80% runners to 80% comfort and medical referrals.
With special guest:
Mike McCauley, Owner, Fleet Feet Augusta
Hosted by:
Andy Polk

Discover how the shoe industry is shifting and adapting in the light of changing economic trends and consumer behaviors in this episode. Special guest John Heron, President of the Born Brands Group at Berkshire Hathaway, shares his journey across the footwear sector, including his time at FFANY and Designer Brands. Gain unique insights into the significance of FFANY's New York market week, the shift towards women-led companies, and the evolution of consumers' tastes and preferences.
With special guest:
John Heron, President, Born Brands Group
Hosted by:
Andy Polk

Jon Weber and Laura Brookhiser, from L.E.K. Consulting, join the show to share insights from their 2024 'Heat Index' report. The report explores what brands consumers desire the most by category and why. We discuss not only who's hot but why, and how companies can take key learnings from this report to build stronger brand loyalty.
With special guests:
Jon Weber, Managing Director at L.E.K. Consulting and Laura Brookhiser, Managing Director at L.E.K. Consulting
Hosted by:
Andy Polk