Outside The Box

Nick Engvall
  • 4.7 (48)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Outside the Box is a conversation series hosted by Nick Engvall, a sneaker industry veteran with over 20 years of experience spanning Sole Collector, Complex Sneakers, Finish Line, Stadium Goods, and StockX. Each episode is a long-form conversation with creative people from the worlds of sneakers, streetwear, media, and culture... people who have been doing the work long enough to have something real to say about it. Some episodes are about shoes. Most of them end up being about something else entirely. That's kind of the point.

  1. From Mom's Basement to Phil Knight's Attention: The Untold Eastbay Story with Founders Art and Rick

    MAY 4

    From Mom's Basement to Phil Knight's Attention: The Untold Eastbay Story with Founders Art and Rick

    There are companies that sell shoes. And then there are companies that shape the way an entire generation experiences them. Eastbay was the latter... and most people have no idea how improbable the whole thing was. Art Juedes and Rick Gering started Eastbay out of a store in Wausau, Wisconsin. Two coaches with 16 years of combined college education, zero business courses between them, and a vision that shoe stores in this country were failing athletes. No one specialized. No one had inventory. No one knew what they were talking about when you called. So Art and Rick decided they would be the ones who did. What followed was one of the most consequential stories in sneaker history... one that most of us lived through without ever knowing the people behind it. In this episode of Outside The Box, Nick sits down with Art and Rick to talk about the moment Nike pulled 40% of their business overnight because Eastbay was too successful at mail order, how Shaquille O'Neal showing up to a Nike meeting in all Eastbay gear helped get them the exclusive back, the tent sales in Wausau where Air Jordans moved out of a parking lot and lines stretched for half a mile, Kevin Plank pitching Under Armour to them before Under Armour was anything, and why they invested $100,000 in a digital camera in 1989 so they could produce a catalog every three weeks while Phil Knight was asking how they did it so fast. Nick's personal connection to Eastbay runs deep... four siblings fighting over one catalog until his mom finally ordered a fifth. He built the original Eastbay Blog for Sole Collector. And this conversation is, as he puts it, probably one of the most important sneaker history conversations he's ever had on any show. Art and Rick's new book, The Book of Eastbay, is available now at BookofEastBay.com. All profits go to the Little Warriors Foundation, a childhood cancer charity. More Sneaker Business Insights at TheSneakerNewsletter.com

    1h 10m
  2. From Sneaker History: Nobody Saw This Coming. Not Even Him. AD Sneaks on The Art of the Sneaker

    MAR 11 ·  BONUS

    From Sneaker History: Nobody Saw This Coming. Not Even Him. AD Sneaks on The Art of the Sneaker

    Andrew Dutton, better known as @ad__sneaks on Instagram, has built one of the most recognizable sneaker photography accounts anywhere online. Hundreds of thousands of followers. Features from Complex. Brand invitations to NBA All-Star Weekend. And a coffee table book, The Art of the Sneaker, releasing March 24th , that nobody saw coming... including him. Nick and Andy get into how a digital media teacher from rural Idaho turned a COVID-era passion project into a published photography book, what it actually looks like behind the scenes of those perfectly lit shots, and why "trying is cool" might be the most important creative philosophy nobody is talking about enough. They also get into the The Gathering experience and what it means to find your people in a culture that's increasingly fragmented across algorithms, how sneakers have always been a connector more than a commodity, and why the work behind the photo matters just as much as the photo itself. If you've ever thought about turning your passion into something bigger, this one's for you. The Art of the Sneaker is available for pre-order now at Andy's Instagram bio and will be available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and bookstores everywhere on March 24th. Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://ww.thesneakernewsletter.com SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate Through Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/sneakerhistory Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/nickengvall Early Access, Exclusive Videos, and Content On Patreon: https://patreon.com/sneakerhistory If you are interested in advertising to our audience, contact us: podcast@sneakerhistory.com CHECK OUT OUR OTHER SHOWS: For the Formula 1 Fans - Exhaust Notes: https://exhaustnotes.fm For the Fitted Hat Fans - Crown and Stitch: https://crownandstitch.com For the Cars & Sneakers Fans - Cars & Kicks: https://carsxkicks.com For the Creators & Creatives - Outside The Box: https://podcasts.apple.com/id/podcast/outside-the-box-convos-with-creators/id1050172106 [Links contain affiliate links; we may receive a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. A great way to support the pod!] —––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—–––– Our podcast is proudly... Recorded on Riverside: http://www.riverside.fm/?via=sneakerhistory Hosted & Distributed By Captivate: https://bit.ly/3j2muPb GET IN TOUCH: Robbie - robbie@sneakerhistory.com Mike - mike@sneakerhistory.com Rohit - rohit@sneakerhistory.com Nick - nick@sneakerhistory.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/

    57 min
  3. The Haircut That Ended the Show - Pete Forester on High Snobiety, StockX, and Two Decades of Telling Sneaker Stories Nobody Else Would

    MAR 5

    The Haircut That Ended the Show - Pete Forester on High Snobiety, StockX, and Two Decades of Telling Sneaker Stories Nobody Else Would

    Pete Forester and I have been circling each other in the sneaker and streetwear editorial world for well over a decade. Pete worked at Kith under Ronnie Fieg, wrote news for Complex Sneakers, covered the industry for Esquire, hosted two seasons of High Snobiety's From the Ground Up, and was editorial director at StockX. He also wrote the Sole Collector article that introduced the world to StockX before he ever worked there. We finally connected... and barely talked about shoes. The Highsnobiety show ended because the owner didn't like Pete's haircut. That story says everything you need to know about working in editorial inside someone else's brand, and it's just the starting point. What followed was a conversation about creative independence, the ethics of sneaker media, what happens to work when it gets deleted, and what two decades in this industry actually teaches you. Pete is currently writing books and publishing at his Substack: Okay, So. Find him at @Pete_Forester on most platforms.

    2h 2m
  4. Just Go Create Something: Mike Guillory on Authenticity, Consistency, and Finding Your Lane in Sneaker Content

    FEB 18

    Just Go Create Something: Mike Guillory on Authenticity, Consistency, and Finding Your Lane in Sneaker Content

    Mike Guillory has been doing this longer than most people realize... and probably better than he gives himself credit for. He's the host of Coffee Time Kicks on YouTube, a co-host on the Sneaker History podcast, and one of the most thoughtful voices in sneaker content. He's not chasing the hype releases, he's not doing "transaction videos," and he's definitely not interested in making content he doesn't believe in. That approach has taken him to nearly 500 videos, millions of views, and a channel that keeps growing because it's built on something real. In this conversation, we get into what it actually looks like to build a content channel from scratch, the mistakes most creators make early on, why authenticity outlasts trends, and why the "tryhard" mentality his son's classmates are mocking is exactly the mentality you need to make it. We also talk about the Sneaker History podcast approaching 500 episodes, what makes long form content work (and when it doesn't), and why the most watched video on Mike's channel is about ASICS Japan while some of his most personally meaningful videos barely moved the needle. This is a real conversation between two people still figuring it out in public, and I think that's exactly why it's worth your time. In this episode: Nick and Mike on starting YouTube before COVID hit, and why timing doesn't matter as much as just starting. The difference between chasing hype releases and building a sustainable content lane. Why Mike researches everything before recording, even though he tries to make it sound like he's just talking. How the skating videos with his son became some of his most-engaged content, and what that tells you about what people actually want. The real talk on attention spans, short form vs. long form, and why a 196,000-view TikTok taught Mike absolutely nothing about what his audience wants. Why the Reebok trainer video with his brother might be one of the best things either of them have made, even if the numbers didn't reflect it. And the thing Nick has never shared publicly before... sneaker YouTube videos from 2013 that only Jacques Slade has seen. Follow Mike Guillory: YouTube: @MikeGuillory Instagram: @madwatcher789 Follow Nick: Newsletter: TheSneakerNewsletter.com YouTube: @NickatSneakerHistory SneakerHistory.com

    1h 4m
  5. Building The Sneaker Community On Substack

    JAN 21

    Building The Sneaker Community On Substack

    I need your help making a decision. I'm building the sneaker community on Substack. Not hype. Not product drops. Something real. But I think I got the pricing wrong. 68 people are paying for my newsletter. But since January 1st? Zero new signups. Two cancellations. My free subscribers are growing (+18 in two weeks) but paid subscribers are shrinking. TheSneakerNewsletter.com

    41 min
  6. StockX Co-Founder Chris Kaufman on Why Empathy Isn't Soft (It's Just Smart Business)

    JAN 14

    StockX Co-Founder Chris Kaufman on Why Empathy Isn't Soft (It's Just Smart Business)

    Chris Kaufman co-founded StockX and helped build it from the very beginning in a Detroit office to a global marketplace. But this conversation isn't all about that origin story... it's about what he learned watching companies choose short-term profits over long-term culture, and why he wrote a book about empathy at work. We talk about the early StockX days when disagreement was productive, not destructive. About why firing people every 18 months to hit quarterly targets actually costs more than just keeping your best people. About the difference between being a CEO and being a leader. And about why the most powerful thing you can say as a leader might be "I dropped the ball on this." Chris has seen both sides... the scrappy startup that valued every voice, and the scaled company where efficiency replaced humanity. He's worked with founders who get it and founders who don't. And his take on what actually makes teams work is refreshingly honest. If you've ever felt like workplace culture is just corporate speak for "free snacks and ping pong tables," this conversation will change your mind. If you've ever wondered why your company keeps restructuring instead of just... building something, you'll recognize the patterns Chris calls out. And if you've ever tried to lead people while also being a human being yourself, you'll appreciate how real this gets. Topics: Why StockX's early chaos was actually its competitive advantageThe true cost of constant layoffs (it's way more than severance)What happens when "efficiency" becomes the enemy of innovationWhy vulnerability isn't weakness in leadershipThe Kanye visit, the first trades, and what it felt like when things started working Chris's book is "Empathy at Work," and yes, it's actually good. Not corporate handbook good... actually useful good. This is the first episode of whatever I'm calling this show. Outside The Box, Pursuit of Something, The Nick Engvall Podcast, Unplanned Entrepreneur... still figuring it out. Let me know what you think it should be called. Links: Chris Kaufman: https://www.christopherkaufman.com/Empathy at Work (book): https://fave.co/3NL54K3 Subscribe to The Sneaker Newsletter for Deep Dives on Sneaker Lore, Business Analysis, and Industry Insider Insight. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Kaufman and StockX 01:41 The Birth of StockX: From UpTo to Sneakers 04:54 Understanding the Sneaker Market and Culture 10:16 Challenges and Doubts in the Early Days 13:58 The Impact of Timing on StockX's Success 16:30 Personal Reflections on Sneakers and Self-Expression 20:05 Building a Team and Culture at StockX 24:17 The Power of Diverse Opinions and Collaboration 29:37 Learning from Feedback and User Experience 35:27 The Importance of Passion and Engagement 38:35 Celebrating Team Achievements 39:26 The Value of Open Conversations 40:56 Nostalgia and Personal Connections in Sneakers 42:09 The Evolution of Fashion in the Workplace 43:45 Empathy in Leadership 45:54 Creating a Psychologically Safe Workplace 48:44 The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership 50:36 Encouraging Risk-Taking and Innovation 52:42 The Role of Humor in the Workplace 57:03 Balancing Work and Creativity 59:54 The Creative Process and Iteration 01:02:42 Long-Term Thinking in Leadership 01:07:24 The Importance of Process in Creativity 01:14:23 Creative Iterations and Team Culture 01:17:59 The Importance of Listening to Employees 01:20:45 Leadership and Employee Engagement 01:23:12 Memorable Moments at StockX 01:29:25 Current Projects and Future Aspirations 01:35:28 The Journey of Writing a Book [Links contain affiliate links; we may receive a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. A great way to support the pod!] —––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—–––– Our podcast is proudly... Recorded on Riverside: http://www.riverside.fm/?via=sneakerhistory Hosted & Distributed By Captivate: https://bit.ly/3j2muPb My Other Shows... For the Formula 1 Fans - Exhaust Notes: https://exhaustnotes.fm For the Fitted Hat Fans - Crown and Stitch: https://crownandstitch.com For the Cars & Sneakers Fans - Cars & Kicks: https://carsxkicks.com For the Sneakerheads - Sneaker History: https://podcasts.apple.com/id/podcast/outside-the-box-convos-with-creators/id1050172106 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

    1h 39m
  7. The Pursuit of Something: Why I'm Bringing This Show Back

    JAN 12

    The Pursuit of Something: Why I'm Bringing This Show Back

    Outside The Box is back. I'm talking with people who are in the pursuit of something... building brands, chasing dreams, navigating the gap between passion and paying bills. This episode explains why I'm bringing the show back, what's changed, and how it connects to going full-time as a creator in 2026. If you're pursuing a passion that matters to you, these conversations are for you. Subscribe to The Sneaker Newsletter for industry deep dives and vault stories from 20 years in the business: https://www.TheSneakerNewsletter.com

    14 min
  8. From Sneaker History: Meet The Sneakerhead Running For Mayor of NYC

    11/18/2024 ·  BONUS

    From Sneaker History: Meet The Sneakerhead Running For Mayor of NYC

    On this episode of the podcast, Nick Engvall speaks with Zellnor Myrie, a New York state senator from Brooklyn, about the intersection of sneakers and politics. Myrie shares his personal journey as a sneakerhead, detailing how his upbringing influenced his passion for sneakers and how he has integrated this love into his political career. The discussion highlights the cultural significance of sneakers, the establishment of Sneaker Day in the New York State Senate, and the broader implications of self-expression through fashion in politics. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Zellnor Myrie explore the intersection of sneaker culture and politics, discussing generational differences in fashion, the importance of self-expression, and the role of sneakers in fostering community connections. Zellnor shares his journey into politics, emphasizing the need for representation and encouraging the next generation to engage in civic duties. The discussion also touches on mental health, resilience in the face of challenges, and the personal significance of favorite sneakers. Connect and earn more about Zellnor Myrie: https://www.zellnor.nyc/?sneakerhistory Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza Donate to Support the Show! https://venmo.com/u/sneakerhistory Early Access and Exclusive Videos On Patreon: https://patreon.com/sneakerhistory Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/sneakerhistory Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sneakers and Politics 05:57 The Origin Story of a Sneakerhead 12:58 Sneaker Day in the New York State Senate 20:07 Generational Perspectives on Fashion and Culture 29:46 The Intersection of Sneakers and Politics 37:54 Navigating Challenges in Politics and Life 43:04 Supporting Community and Political Aspirations —–––– Check out our other shows: —–––– For the Formula 1 Fans --> Exhaust Notes: https://exhaustnotes.fm For the Fitted Hat Fans --> Crown and Stitch: https://crownandstitch.com For the Cars & Sneakers Fans --> Cars & Kicks: https://carsxkicks.com For the Creators --------> Outside The Box: https://podcasts.apple.com/id/podcast/outside-the-box-convos-with-creators/id1050172106 —–––– EXCLUSIVE DEALS FOR YOU FROM OUR PARTNERS —–––– [Links contain affiliate links, we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking a link. A great way to support the pod!] —––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—–––– Our podcast is proudly... Livestreamed with StreamYard: https://streamyard.com?pal=6514386237915136 Recorded on Riverside: http://www.riverside.fm/?via=sneakerhistory Distributed By Captivate: https://bit.ly/3j2muPb Get in Touch: Robbie - robbie@sneakerhistory.com Mike - mike@sneakerhistory.com Rohit - rohit@sneakerhistory.com Nick - nick@sneakerhistory.com For advertising inquiries: podcast@sneakerhistory.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/

    46 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.7
out of 5
48 Ratings

About

Outside the Box is a conversation series hosted by Nick Engvall, a sneaker industry veteran with over 20 years of experience spanning Sole Collector, Complex Sneakers, Finish Line, Stadium Goods, and StockX. Each episode is a long-form conversation with creative people from the worlds of sneakers, streetwear, media, and culture... people who have been doing the work long enough to have something real to say about it. Some episodes are about shoes. Most of them end up being about something else entirely. That's kind of the point.

Information

  • Creator
    Nick Engvall
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Nick Engvall
  • Show Website
    Outside The Box

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