Sneaker History Podcast - Sneakers, Sneaker Culture and the Business of Footwear

Sneaker History - Retrospect Podcasts
  • 4.8 (200)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Nearly 600,000 downloads and still here! A show about sneakers for sneakerheads, by sneakerheads. We're not here to bring people down or play gatekeeper, we are here to show the positive side of sneakers and connect with like-minded sneaker enthusiasts. We talk about sneakers and the footwear industry, interview footwear industry professionals, designers, and creatives who share our passion for sneakers. To advertise to our audience: podcast@sneakerhistory.com A part of the Retrospect Podcast Network. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/

  1. From Outside The Box: Back To Where It Started... StockX Co-Founder Chris Kaufman

    2D AGO · BONUS

    From Outside The Box: Back To Where It Started... StockX Co-Founder Chris Kaufman

    Chris Kaufman co-founded StockX, but this isn't an origin story. We talk about what he learned watching companies destroy culture for quarterly gains, why constant layoffs cost more than just keeping good people, and what leadership actually looks like when you stop pretending you have all the answers. Plus: the Kanye visit, the first StockX trades, and why Detroit was the perfect place to build something weird and new. Chris wrote "Empathy at Work" because he's convinced being decent to people isn't just morally right... it's better business. After this conversation, I think he's right. (This is the first episode of a new/show I'm still naming. Outside The Box? Pursuit of Something? Unplanned Entrepreneur? Let me know what you think.) More Conversations Like This: Subscribe to Outside The Box If you are interested in advertising to our audience, contact us: podcast@sneakerhistory.com Our podcast is proudly... Recorded on Riverside: http://www.riverside.fm/?via=sneakerhistory Hosted & Distributed By Captivate: https://bit.ly/3j2muPb [Links contain affiliate links; we may receive a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. A great way to support the pod!] GET IN TOUCH: 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/

    1h 38m
  2. Nike Mind 001 Review: Is It The Real Deal or The Next Fuel Band? Or Somehow... Both?

    5D AGO

    Nike Mind 001 Review: Is It The Real Deal or The Next Fuel Band? Or Somehow... Both?

    Nike dropped the Mind 001 and the internet had opinions. One of us already bought it and tried it, so we're debating this with actual experience instead of just hot takes. Is this innovation or gimmick? Is Nike breaking new ground or desperately trying to make us care about something... anything? What does this release signal about their bigger strategy? Rohit, Robbie, and Nick argue it out. For Deep Dives on Sneaker Lore, Business Analysis, and Industry Insider Insight: https://www.thesneakernewsletter.com Get Your Nike Mind: https://fave.co/4jD3Hcs Chapters 00:00 The Buzz Around Nike's New Releases 03:08 Consumer Reactions and Market Trends 06:04 The Evolution of Nike's Technology 09:06 Gamification and User Engagement 11:55 The Future of Footwear Technology 15:01 Personal Experiences with New Products 17:59 The Role of Marketing in Consumer Perception 20:58 Reflections on Mental Health and Footwear 24:00 The Aesthetics of New Nike Models 26:58 Conclusions and Final Thoughts 34:24 The Evolution of Sneaker Technology 37:14 Pricing and Consumer Perception 40:22 Generational Trends in Footwear 43:02 Market Timing and Economic Factors 51:00 The Future of Sneaker Culture 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/

    54 min
  3. What Does 2026 Mean For The Sneaker History Podcast (Special Episode)

    JAN 2

    What Does 2026 Mean For The Sneaker History Podcast (Special Episode)

    An essential update for the podcast moving forward, and what you can expect in 2026. Subscribe to The Sneaker Newsletter: https://www.thesneakernewsletter.com $15/month for industry analysis, insider stories, and deep dives into sneaker history. Podcast listeners: DM me on Substack and mention the podcast for a special discount. 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 Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza 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 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/

    10 min
  4. A Century of Footwear Knowledge - The Archivist's Role In Sneaker Culture

    12/15/2025

    A Century of Footwear Knowledge - The Archivist's Role In Sneaker Culture

    In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, host Mike Guillory speaks with Sam Smallidge, the archivist at Converse, about the rich history of the brand and its impact on sneaker culture. They discuss Sam's unique connection to Converse, the evolution of various shoe models, and the significance of player-worn shoes. The conversation also delves into the role of an archivist, the process of archiving new models, and the importance of collaborations in sneaker design. MORE ON THE BUSINESS OF SNEAKERS: https://www.thesneakernewsletter.com CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Converse and Sneaker History 03:00 The Role of an Archivist in Sneaker Culture 05:59 Converse's Running Heritage 08:57 Exploring Converse's Outdoor and Boot Models 12:02 The Evolution of Converse's Tennis Line 25:43 The Archive Intake Process 27:42 Managing New Models and Collaborations 29:48 Preserving Historical Shoes 33:49 Collecting Game-Worn Memorabilia 36:48 The Hunt for Unique Shoes 40:50 Michael Jordan's Legacy in the Archive 42:39 The Evolution of Converse Shoes 44:11 Collaborations and Design Sessions 46:12 The Archivist's Journey 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 Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.com/@sneakerhistory Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza 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/

    50 min
  5. Knowledge Is Currency: D'Wayne Edwards on Retail, Design, and Building the Only Design-Focused HBCU

    12/08/2025

    Knowledge Is Currency: D'Wayne Edwards on Retail, Design, and Building the Only Design-Focused HBCU

    In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, hosts Robbie Falchi and Mike Guillory interview Dr. D'Wayne Edwards, a legendary sneaker designer and founder of Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design, a footwear design academy. They discuss the evolution of sneaker culture, the influence of athletes and pop culture on sneaker design, and the importance of authenticity in marketing. D'Wayne shares insights on the sneaker industry, advice for aspiring designers, and the significance of community engagement. The conversation also highlights the adidas Business Track initiative, which aims to bridge the gap between retail and sneaker design, emphasizing the value of knowledge and creativity in the industry. More Info: https://www.plcdetroit.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 Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.com/@sneakerhistory Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza 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/

    46 min
  6. Sneaker Culture in the South With Rukus' Devin Chriss

    11/24/2025

    Sneaker Culture in the South With Rukus' Devin Chriss

    In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, host Mike Guillory interviews Devin Chriss, a partner at Rukus, a sneaker and skate shop in Louisiana. They discuss the unique culture of sneakers in the South, the importance of community engagement, and the evolution of sneaker collaborations, particularly with New Balance. Devin shares insights into the challenges and successes of running a sneaker shop, the impact of reselling on the market, and the significance of skate culture in shaping sneaker trends. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in sneaker design and the future of sneaker retail in a rapidly changing landscape. Connect with Rukus Connect with Devin 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 Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.com/@sneakerhistory Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza 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/

    47 min
  7. Jamal Burger Is Empowering Youth By Providing Footwear & Confidence

    11/24/2025

    Jamal Burger Is Empowering Youth By Providing Footwear & Confidence

    In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, host Mike Guillory speaks with Jamal Burger, a photographer and philanthropist, about his journey in combining his passion for sneakers with impactful community work through the Kickback Foundation. They discuss the importance of empowering youth, the challenges of running a non-profit, and the significance of mentorship and community partnerships. Jamal shares inspiring stories of the youth he has helped and the ongoing efforts to create a positive impact through sneakers and education. Connect with the Kickback Foundation Connect with Jamal SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate Through Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/sneakerhistory Early Access, Exclusive Videos, and Content On Patreon: https://patreon.com/sneakerhistory Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.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/

    32 min
  8. Inspiring The Youth Through Sneaker Collaborations - Shake James Interview

    11/14/2025

    Inspiring The Youth Through Sneaker Collaborations - Shake James Interview

    In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Robbie and Mike are joined by Eric "Shake" James, who discusses his latest adidas collaboration, the adistar Control 5. Shake shares his personal journey through cancer, the inspiration behind his sneaker designs, and the importance of community support. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about health and the impact of his nonprofit work through Jay's Academy, which focuses on empowering youth in Milwaukee. The episode highlights the intersection of sneaker culture, personal stories, and community engagement. 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 Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.com/@sneakerhistory Join our Discord Community: https://discord.gg/xJFyWmWgza If you are interested in advertising to our audience, contact us: podcast@sneakerhistory.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Sneaker History Podcast 02:59 Shake James and His adidas Collaboration 05:58 The Story Behind the Cranberry Shoe 09:04 Shake's Cancer Journey and Its Impact 11:57 Community Engagement and Jay's Academy 16:53 Partnership with Adidas and Future Plans 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/

    24 min
See All (305)

4.8
out of 5
200 Ratings

About

Nearly 600,000 downloads and still here! A show about sneakers for sneakerheads, by sneakerheads. We're not here to bring people down or play gatekeeper, we are here to show the positive side of sneakers and connect with like-minded sneaker enthusiasts. We talk about sneakers and the footwear industry, interview footwear industry professionals, designers, and creatives who share our passion for sneakers. To advertise to our audience: podcast@sneakerhistory.com A part of the Retrospect Podcast Network. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/

Information

You Might Also Like