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

Mike sits down with Al Baker, the artist behind Deadstock Anatomies, for a Coffee Time Kicks conversation about turning sneakers into framed art pieces inspired by entomology, the science of pinning insects.

Al breaks down how a wife's passion for bug collecting led to taking apart a Jordan 1 and never looking back, the time he split a Red October down the middle and made $6,000 doing it, why the Reebok Above the Rim line still has him hunting Poshmark for old Steve Francis ATRs, and what it felt like to hand A'ja Wilson a piece made from her...

If you grew up flipping through the Eastbay catalog, this one's for you.

Mike sits down with Art and Rick, the two men behind one of the most beloved institutions in sneaker and athletic culture. Born two days apart in the same hospital, lifelong friends, and eventual business partners... their story is one of those rare ones that almost sounds made up. They break down how a simple idea rooted in getting the best athletic footwear to young athletes turned into a cultural phenomenon that shaped how a generation discovered sneakers. They also talk about their new...

Christina Faith has been building for 20 years. She started with a DSLR in 2006, ran a record label, launched her first business in college, and has now opened a 2,500 sq. ft. creative production space that's also becoming a live music venue. She's self-taught, faith-driven, and one of the most grounded voices in the creative space right now.

In this Coffee Time Kicks conversation, Mike sits down with Christina to talk about growing up not being able to afford sneakers, making her own money by 7th grade just to grab a pair of Penny Hardaways, and why everything she...

You probably know I've got a love-hate relationship with running. But when Raziq Rauf, the guy behind the Running Sucks Substack, sent me his new book This Is Running, I couldn't put it down. So I figured I needed to get him on the show.

Raz is a former music journalist, BBC and Guardian contributor, USATF running coach, and now author of what is genuinely a cultural history of running in the 21st century. We talk about the super shoe revolution and what carbon plate technology actually does to your body, why run clubs exploded out of...

Mark Strong didn't have a design background. He didn't have a factory connection. He had an idea, a Garrison contest entry, and the kind of stubbornness it takes to actually see something through. Four-plus years later, he's got a shoe. The SV1 "Radici" — 60 pairs, hairy suede uppers, Vibram soles, and laces sourced from the same Tennessee tannery that makes Rawlings baseball glove leather.

We talk about the whole journey: Made in USA dreams that hit a $300/pair wall, a Portugal factory that went dark mid-sample, a pivot back to China, tariff chaos during pre-orders, and indigo-dyed hemp to...

Rohit caught up with producer Billy Burke and writer/producer Terrence Watson to talk about Meal Ticket, their documentary about the McDonald's All-American Game, now streaming on Amazon Prime. These two have serious resumes... Billy produced New York City Point Gods, and Terrence has worked with everyone from Gatorade to creative duo Coodie Simmons and Chike Ozah. But Meal Ticket might be their most personal project yet.

We get into how the film came together, why Flau'jae Johnson is everyone's favorite character (you'll see), and the Tracy McGrady interview that didn't make the cut but probably should...

The World Cup is almost here, and the sneaker game around it is already delivering. Nick, Robbie, and Rohit break down everything from Nike's Air Max soccer boot hybrids and country-specific colorways to adidas' Federation Pack Sambas for Japan, Mexico, and Italy. They get into the Jordan Brand x Brazil situation, why traditional colors still matter on the global stage, and how this year's releases are threading the needle between football culture and everyday wear. Plus, Rockin' and Coppin' featuring the Mark Gonzalez x adidas Terrex Sky Chaser GTX, some Kobe threes, and a Reebok Formula One throwback.

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...

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...

Amado Rodriguez Jr. started his blog, The Official Encyclopedia Sneakérica, with one goal... to do for sneakers what Encyclopedia Britannica did for everything else. No hype. No "buy it now" buttons. Just the deep cuts, the real history, and the stuff that gets lost when everybody's chasing the algorithm.

He's @SneakerProfiler on Instagram, a B-boy whose parents came from Puerto Rico, a military veteran who ran constantly during his time in the Army, and a marathon runner who might know more about the ZX Series than most people at adidas right now.

We talked f...

The whole crew is back together... Nick, Mike, Robbie, and Rohit are all in the same (virtual) room for the first time in a while, and things get weird before they get good. From confusing their Thugs (Young vs. Slim, no disrespect to either) to breaking down the Reebok Engine A26 and the adidas x Spider collab dropping March 3rd, the guys cover a lot of ground this episode.

The real meat of the conversation though? That ESPN story by Baxter Holmes about the Jordan 19 and the Black Mamba origin... it turns out the snakeskin concept that...

Steph Curry's sneaker free agency has him wearing heat from every brand, while Under Armour gets petty by stealing Curry Brand's Instagram followers. We debate where he should sign next (spoiler: maybe nowhere), compare this to Kobe's free agency, and break down why UA's downfall feels inevitable. Is Sunday Red the move? Should he just keep wearing whatever he wants? And why does Under Armour's logo look like a linebacker?

Sole Retriever's Curry Tracker: https://currywatch.com/

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JT, AKA The Sneaker Savant, has been in the sneaker world long enough to remember when eBay was church, when Dadas sold out, and when nobody questioned either of those things. He's been a fixture in the Sneaker History Discord for years, built a following on Instagram under @TheSneakerSavant, writes over at thesneakersavant.substack.com, and has been quietly one of the most interesting thinkers in this whole space... he just doesn't always show his face.

This one gets personal pretty fast. We talk about the Portland gathering and what it meant to finally be in a...

Is there a better place for All-Star Weekend sneaker releases than Los Angeles?

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike and Rohit dive into the latest sneaker culture trends, including their recent picks and the buzz around the Costco Dunk. They also review J. Cole's new double album, discussing its themes and production quality, before transitioning to a discussion about the new Marvel series, Wonder Man, and its character-driven storytelling.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sneaker Culture Overview

03:02 Recent Sneaker Acquisitions and Experiences

06:07 The Costco Dunk Phenomenon

11:59 In-Depth Review of the Costco...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, host Mike Guillory welcomes Jazerai Allen-Lord, an OG in the sneaker community. They discuss Jaz's journey from skate culture to becoming a respected voice in sneaker media, her experiences in writing and content creation, and the importance of representation and mentorship in the industry. Jaz shares insights on navigating challenges, building resilience, and the evolving role of women in sneaker culture. The conversation highlights the significance of community, personal experiences, and strategic thinking in shaping the future of the sneaker industry.

Follow Jazerai on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...

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.

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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.

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An essential update for the podcast moving forward, and what you can expect in 2026.

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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.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Converse and...

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...

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...

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.

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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.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Robbie, Mike, and Rohit, dive into the latest trends in sneaker culture, discussing personal picks and the evolution of signature basketball shoes. They explore the marketing strategies of major brands like Nike and adidas, and share insights on the design and functionality of new releases. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on upcoming sneaker releases and the excitement surrounding the NBA season.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Nick, Robbie, and Mike discuss the evolving landscape of sneaker culture and collecting, including the recent surge in popularity of One Piece cards. They explore the differences between sneaker and card collecting experiences, the impact of community engagement, and the future of sneaker retail in a changing market. The conversation highlights the importance of personal experiences and connections in the collecting world, as well as the challenges faced by retailers in maintaining relevance and profitability.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History podcast, Mike Guillory speaks with Todd Meleney, co-founder of while on earth, a fitness brand that merges sneaker culture with athletic performance. Todd shares his journey from a passion for basketball sneakers to launching his own brand after a successful stint at No Bull. The conversation delves into the importance of product quality, the role of athlete partnerships, and the impact of the pandemic on the fitness industry. Todd emphasizes the significance of authenticity in branding and the mission of while on earth to inspire individuals to reach their full potential through...

In this episode, Robbie, Mike, and Rohit, discuss the latest sneaker releases, including the impact of iconic figures like Bruce Lee and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on sneaker culture, and a comparison between the adidas AE2 and Nike Ja 3 sneakers. They explore the significance of colorways, market trends, and consumer expectations in the sneaker industry, while also sharing personal anecdotes and experiences related to sneaker collecting and wearing.

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In this episode, Mike Guillory interviews Young Corey, a prominent figure in the sneaker and streetwear community. They discuss Corey's journey from a young sneaker enthusiast to the founder of Circulate, his experiences working with Nike, and the importance of authenticity and community engagement in business. Corey shares insights on the challenges of entrepreneurship, the evolution of sneaker culture, and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the significance of kindness and support within the community.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, hosts Rohit Malhotra and Mike Guillory engage with author Giri Nathan to discuss the exciting rivalry between young tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. They explore the contrasting styles and personalities of both players, the influence of Nike on their branding, and the future of men's tennis as new contenders emerge. The conversation also touches on the challenges of maintaining focus and managing physical demands in the sport, as well as the importance of novelty and technical precision in their games.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike Guillory talks with Darryl Glover, a passionate sneaker collector known as the 'King of Kobe's.' They discuss their favorite sneakers, recent releases, and the evolution of sneaker collecting. Darryl shares insights on navigating the sneaker market, the impact of retro releases, and the rising prices of sneakers. They also touch on the Pokemon card craze and how it parallels sneaker culture. The conversation highlights the joy of collecting and the importance of buying what you love. In this engaging conversation, Mike Guillory and Darryl Glover explore the intersection of...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, hosts Mike Guillory and Rohit Malhotra dive into the latest sneaker news, focusing on the upcoming sneaker calendar. They start off with our Rocking and Copping segment, aka sneaker pickups and what's been on feet, then jump into the revival of soccer culture in sneaker collaborations, and the exciting Puma and Fantastic Four collaboration. The conversation shifts to the highly anticipated Undefeated Jordan 4 release, exploring its significance and potential impact on sneaker culture. Finally, they touch on the Kobe 4 Barcelona and its connection to soccer, highlighting the influence of Kobe Bryant...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike Guillory interviews Josh Fraser, the Senior Lead Designer at Saucony, exploring his extensive background in footwear design, the evolution of design technology, and the importance of storytelling and authenticity in sneaker culture. Josh shares insights into the creative process behind Saucony's unique designs, the significance of material quality, and the impact of collaborations on brand identity. He reflects on the sneaker industry's current landscape and discusses future directions for Saucony, emphasizing the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and community.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Nick Engvall speaks with Charley Hudak Head of Footwear at Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red. They discuss the intersection of golf and sneaker culture, its evolution over the past decade, and what's to come. They dive into the evolution of Sun Day Red, the design process behind their new golf shoe, the Osprey, and the brand's vision for the future. Charley shares insights on the challenges of footwear design, the importance of authenticity in collaborations, and the impact of Tiger Woods on the brand's direction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike Guillory speaks with John Trottier, aka Johnnys Kicks, a prominent sneaker designer and customizer. They discuss Johnny's journey from a sneaker enthusiast to a successful designer, the impact of 3D printing on the sneaker industry, and the importance of community in fostering creativity. Johnny shares insights on the customization process, the challenges of balancing design and business, and his aspirations to help other creators in the sneaker space. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of sneaker design and the potential for innovation in the industry.

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In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike Guillory talks with Dez, the Chief Content Creator for Nice Kicks. They discuss Dez's journey into sneaker culture, his role at Nice Kicks, and the evolution of sneaker media. The conversation touches on the impact of the pandemic on sneaker trends, the importance of social media, and the Nice Kicks Awards, which aim to recognize the contributions of various voices in the sneaker community. Dez shares insights on the challenges of content creation and the future of sneaker culture, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and thoughtful engagement.

Connect...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, Mike Guillory interviews Ben Weiss, the founder and CEO of Syntilay, a pioneering company in the realm of 3D-printed and AI-generated sneakers. They discuss the innovative technology behind Centellay's products, the design process, and the importance of custom footwear. Ben shares insights on how AI is revolutionizing sneaker design, the challenges of integrating new technologies, and the future of footwear in a rapidly changing market. The conversation highlights the significance of creativity and individuality in sneaker culture, as well as the potential for collaboration with content creators and influencers.

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In this episode of Coffee Time Kicks, Mike Guillory and Mache discuss the latest in sneaker culture, including Mache's experiences at charity events, his venture into golf shoes, and the challenges of balancing custom shoe design with running an independent brand. They explore the importance of networking, the evolution of pricing strategies in the sneaker market, and the creative process behind designing new models and collaborations. Mache shares insights into the world of custom cleats and the impact of social media on sneaker culture. In this conversation, Mike Guillory and Mache delve into the evolving landscape of sneaker design...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, host Mike Guillory talks with sneaker photographer Steven Antoine, also known as @CultivatingCool. They discuss the intersection of sneaker culture and photography, exploring Steven's journey into the world of sneaker photography, the importance of community, and the evolving landscape of social media. The conversation highlights the balance between passion and professionalism, the significance of sharing knowledge within the sneaker community, and the creative processes behind sneaker photography. Steven emphasizes the value of personal expression and the use of technology to enhance creativity in his work. In this conversation, Mike Guillory and...

In this episode of the Sneaker History Podcast, the hosts discuss the concept of starting over with a sneaker collection. They explore the essential shoes that would make up their top 10 picks, emphasizing personal preferences and the significance of each model. The conversation covers iconic silhouettes like the Air Force One, Chuck Taylor, various Jordan models, and the Reebok Question, highlighting their cultural relevance and personal stories associated with each shoe. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the world of sneakers, discussing their favorite retro styles, the cultural significance of iconic models like the ASICS GEL-LYTE 3 and...