Run Matters Neil Schwartz and Mark Sullivan

We are calling episode 6 of the Run Matters Podcast, Powered by Skechers Performance the “Connection Episode”. From the opening subject du jour lightning round right to the “Run to the Finish” segment, we talked about how the specialty running channel is at the heart of most connections, whether it’s between brands and retailers or retailers and their local community. Our first conversation features Keith Shelton, the Director of Merchandising and Product Development for the Skech...

In Episode 6 of the Retail Matters edition of the Run Matters Podcast, Mark and I learn how a former bakery owner made the pivot to become an owner of one of the hottest running stores in the running rich state of South Dakota.605 Running Company’s Greg Koch shares his story in this episode of the Retail Edition of The Run Matters Podcast powered by Skechers performance.Koch’s recipe relies heavily on community Involvement and an extensive coaching program, led by former collegiate all-Americ...

This episode of the Retail Matters Podcast features Shoes and Brews in Longmont, CO. Mark and Neil had a fun discussion with store owner/manager and mom, Ashlee Anderson as she explained how the five owners put this concept together and what it has meant for the local community. Shoes and Brews has been able to tap into the younger, family-oriented demographic to make themselves an important part of this community and create a new type of running r...

If there was any one word that describes the past 12 months, it is disruption. But disruption is not always a bad thing. In fact, for many in the running community, it has been a chance to make lemonade from a giant bowl of lemons. S01E05 of The Run Matters Podcast begins with a discussion between lead product developer at Skechers Performance, Kurt Stockbridge and one of running’s up and coming stars, Edward Cheserek. “Ches” has been using the time during the pandemic...

We then sat down with Ken Sung, co-owner of Gazelle Sports in Central Michigan. Ken discussed how Gazelle used this time during the pandemic to take a step back and look closely at its business and then make the needed changes to get ready for the next three to five years. Ken then went on to talk about his entrepreneurial efforts that include both a farm to table full-service restaurant and a brand-new Gourmet Bagel Shop. Neil is still waiting for the dozen bagels Ken promised him.

We are calling Episode 4 of the Run Matters Podcast, “The Collaboration Episode” for two reasons. The first collaboration in this episode features Amanda Brooks and Co-host, Neil Schwartz as they talk about his plan to get out and start running. Neil is in the early “walk/run” stage but hopes to get to his goal in two to three months. We heard Neil say” This whole process scares the crap out of me” but he is starting to build new habits.The next collaboration takes listeners behind the scenes...