In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist welcomes Arthur Alexander, captain of the Late Night Menu Crew and Nike Run Club pacer in Miami for the Baptist Health South Beach and Brickell Run Clubs. Arthur delves into his transformation from a Nike employee to a key figure in Miami's running scene, highlighting his involvement in creative entrepreneurship and DJing. He sheds light on his various projects, including the Late Night Menu Crew's bi-monthly runs and major marathon preparations for events like Chicago, Berlin, and Miami. The discussion emphasizes community-building, sustainable running practices, and collaborations over competition. Arthur also previews an upcoming Father's Day event with J. Wakefield and shares a message of commitment, hope, and optimism. This episode underscores his dedication to enhancing physical and mental well-being through running and community engagement.Stay Connected with ArthurInstagram: @lordlaflare and @latenightmenucrew YouTube: @LateNightMenuCrew

Catching up with one of our favorite store partners, Rochester Running Company, at the annual Run Summit conference in St. Louis!

In Episode 12 of Sneaker Impact News, Bryan the Botanist interviews Kiera Smalls, the first Executive Director of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC). Based in Philadelphia, Kiera discusses her journey from a non-runner to a marathon finisher, despite her asthma. She highlights her work with the RIDC, focusing on improving inclusion, visibility, and access for BIPOC individuals in the running industry. Key initiatives include the 'Run the Block' program, aiming to increase Black ownership in the running retail space through a $200,000 grant and dedicated mentorship. The interview also covers Kiera's views on environmental sustainability in running, her favorite running gear, and the importance of community and representation in the sport. Additionally, the challenges and achievements of the RIDC since its inception in 2020 are discussed, emphasizing the coalition's efforts to unite the running industry for racial justice. Kiera's vision for a more inclusive and accessible running community underscores the interview, calling for continuous effort and education in diversity, equity, and inclusion.Stay Connected With KieraInstagram LinkedIn Learn More About The RIDChttps://www.runningdiversity.comhttps://www.runningdiversity.com/runtheblock

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist interviews Harry Chandler, a prominent figure in the running industry co-owner of the Charlotte Running Company, vice president of the Running Industry Association, and chair of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition. The discussion covers Harry's personal journey from Michigan to becoming a significant advocate for diversity and inclusion within the running community. Harry shares insights into his early days, the transformative experiences that led him into the running industry, and his passion for making the running industry more inclusive and representative of all communities. Through his work with Charlotte Running Company and the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, Harry aims to create a more welcoming and equitable running environment that celebrates diversity and provides opportunities for all.Connect with Harryhttps://www.instagram.com/mr_chandler/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/charlotterunningcompany/?hl=enwww.charlotterunning.com

In Episode 10 of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist interviews Valeria Rodriguez, an inspiring figure with a multifaceted life as a runner, mom, illustrator, teacher, and survivor. Valeria shares her journey from a physically challenging childhood to becoming a state-champion runner and securing a college scholarship. Despite pressure and injuries, her competitive spirit and resilience shine through. Post-college, she ventures into the Peace Corps, becomes a mom, and later, integrates her passion for running into teaching and environmental activism. Valeria's story is filled with lessons on perseverance, the power of community, and the intertwining of her running and environmental endeavors through initiatives like Sneaker Impact.Connect with ValeriaInstagram - @valeriar1Facebook - Valeria RodriguezThreads - https://www.threads.net/@valeriar1Strava -  https://www.strava.com/athletes/19270956LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriarodriguez305/

Meet Lucien Boulet aka Hot Chocolate aka the Peoples Champ! OooooWeeeee!In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist welcomes Lucien Boulet, also known as Hot Chocolate, in their brand new studio, marking Lucien as the first in-person guest. Lucien, an ultra runner, entrepreneur, and father, shares his inspiring journey from starting running at the age of 38 to participating in extreme ultra-marathons including 200-mile races and the notable Badwater 135. Lucien discusses his spiritual connection to running, the challenges and techniques involved in ultra-running, and how it transformed his lifestyle from partying to pushing the limits of human endurance. This episode also touches on Lucien's roots, his impact on the Miami ultra-running scene, his life as a father and entrepreneur, and his participation in a sustainable running initiative with Sneaker Impact. Lucien's story is one of transformation, community, resilience, and the sheer will to challenge the impossible.Lucien’s motto: “If you stay ready, you ain’t gotta get ready!”Connect with LucienIG - https://www.instagram.com/chocolate_champ_/FB -  https://www.facebook.com/lucien.bouletThreads - https://www.threads.net/@chocolate_champ_Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/19263411

In this heart-warming episode of Sneaker Impact News, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Nadia Ruiz, also known as Iron Girl Nadia. Raised in Los Angeles by Ecuadorian immigrant parents, Nadia shares her rich background in running, which spans 26 years and includes over 650 races. From struggling with team sports to discovering her talent in running, Nadia's journey is a testament to personal growth, determination, and the pursuit of being the best version of oneself. She discusses her aim to break the world record for the youngest female to run 100 marathons, emphasizing the importance of fully immersing in each experience rather than rushing through it. Nadia reflects on the influence of her Latina identity, the sacrifices of her immigrant parents, and how it shapes her outlook and commitment to hard work and education. Her story is not just about running; it's a deeper exploration of resilience, cultural pride, community impact, and the transformative power of sports. Nadia also touches upon her passion for dogs, plants, and her goals for the future, especially as she enters the masters' category in running, signaling a new chapter of challenges and accomplishments.Connect with NadiaIG - https://www.instagram.com/irongirlnadiaFB - https://www.facebook.com/irongirlnadiaThreads - https://www.threads.net/@irongirlnadiaTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@irongirlnadia?lang=enYT - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTESxNwMu1ujbM5KhfbLV_QX - https://twitter.com/IrongirlNadia

Sneaker Impact News Episode 8 features an extensive interview with Charles Van Schaik, a professional with over 30 years of experience in the retail and footwear industry, who collaborated with Sneaker Impact, a social enterprise focused on sneaker recycling for the European market. Charles highlights his experiences working with international brands like REEBOK, ASICS, Crocs, and TOMS, culminating in his partnership with Sneaker Impact aiming to reduce environmental waste. He shares insight into European recycling mentality, efforts, and legislation, and discusses the implementation and impact of their sneaker recycling program in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands. Charles also shares the challenges faced and his continued passion for sustainability and recycling in the footwear industry.To Stay in Touch: Follow @sneakerimpacteu on Instagram and Email Charles@sneakerimpact.com

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist interviews Terry Schalow, the Executive Director of the Running Industry Association (RIA). Schalow shares his career journey, from his start at ASICS to his current role at RIA. He discusses the organization's mission, highlighting its focus on supporting brick-and-mortar retail running channels, including independent stores, brands, and service providers in the industry. A significant part of the conversation revolves around the importance of sustainability in the running industry and RIA's commitment to it. Schalow gives an overview of RIA's upcoming Product Data Collaborative project and the orgnization's future in leveraging AI to foster personal connections with their members.

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, Bryan the Botanist interviews Elliott Mason, the founder of RunAdic, a creative app solution aimed at building communities and promoting health through technology and support. Elliott shares his motivation behind creating RunAdic, a tool that geo-localizes running clubs and runners. This feature allows users to find local running groups in their area or in places they're visiting, promoting safety and a sense of community. He also shares information on the growth of the RunAdic's user base, particularly in South Florida, and its expanding reach globally. Additionally, Elliot discusses his passion for environmental conservation through initiatives like neighborhood cleanup or 'plogging'. This episode provides an insightful conversation about leveraging technology to enhance individual running experiences and fostering a global community of runners.To learn more about RunAdic, visit https://runadic.com/Download the RunAdic App for free on iOS or Android App StoreAnd follow  @RunAdicTV on YouTube and @runadic on Instagram

In this interview, Bryan the Botanist, host of Sneaker Impact News, talks to David Kilgore, a successful ultra-endurance athlete and the global head of trail and ultra athletes at On Running. They discuss David's successful running career—highlighting his exceptional record and achievements—including winning the World Marathon Challenge and setting an American record for the Red Bull Wings for Life World Run. David also shares insights about his journey with On Running, from starting as a tech rep to becoming an integral part of the company's athlete team and management. He expresses his appreciation for On's emphasis on sustainability, including the development of a recyclable shoe under its Cyclone Program. Outside athletics, David is committed to giving back and acknowledges the impact that fundraising for equity design and the Don Monte Memorial Foundation has had on his life. David reflects on his 'Florida Man' persona, paying tribute to his Floridian roots and the spirit of adventure they encapsulate. He also gives a sneak peeks into two upcoming races he's organizing—the NYC Trail Fest and the 5K On The Beach.Stay connected with David on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist sits down with Calista Ariel, a sustainability advocate and coordinator for the Better Bins recycling program at the Low Impact Alliance (LIA). They discuss LIA's mission to encourage sustainability in the running industry, the Better Bins initiative, which provides recycling centers for retailers, and the many challenges faced by sustainability efforts. Calista, also a committed runner, shares her personal journey with sustainability and her work at Saucony. They touch upon LIA's partnerships with major running brands, and Sneaker Impact's role as a shoe recycling partner for the Better Bins Program. This episode serves as an insightful discussion on the intersection of running, sustainability and recycling.Low Impact AllianceThe Better Bins ProgramCalista Ariel LinkedIn

In Episode 1 of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the botanist conducts an in-depth interview with Frankie Ruiz, the founder of the Miami Marathon. Apart from being a significant figure in South Florida's running scene, Frankie holds positions like Chief Running Officer at Lifetime and Chief Wellness Officer for City of Miami. As an advocate for wellness and public health, Frankie shares his insights about the Miami Marathon and his vision for Miami, the Sneaker Impact mission, and the running community at large. We also get a glimpse into Frankie's work as a city wellness officer and his advocacy for eco-responsibility and sustainability in the footwear industry. In Frankie's words, don't stop! Keep pushing for a more active and sustainable lifestyle.Frankie is also the head coach of cross country at Belen Jesuit High School where he has recently led his team to a 4th place national finish and national coach of the year honors. I’ve known Frankie for many years and run many of his races so to have the opportunity to interview him today is a honor.00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation00:32 Interview with Frankie Ruiz00:45 Discussion on Miami Marathon01:04 Frankie's Involvement in Miami Marathon01:53 Importance of Health and Fitness Expo02:58 Sneaker Impact's Role in the Expo03:35 Frankie's Connection with Sneaker Impact06:00 Sneaker Impact's Growth and Impact06:55 Importance of Recycling Shoes07:36 Frankie's Role in Miami's Running Clubs11:17 Frankie's Vision for Miami and Sneaker Impact14:22 Frankie's Role as City's Chief Wellness Officer19:33 Frankie's Achievements and Future Plans21:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sneaker Impact News Episode 2 features Louisa Hoyes from TOMRA, a global company leading the way in material recovery. Join host Bryan the botanist and Louisa for an in-depth conversation about the challenges and future prospects of textile recycling. Louisa, with her extensive background in environmental science and resource management, shares insightful details about TOMRA and her role in shaping the future of textile recycling. She also talks about the potential of creating an efficient circular economy through collaboration and innovation. Listen in as Louisa enlightens us about the various technologies involved in the process, TOMRA's global reach, her personal journey, and her commitment to environmental consciousness.To learn more about TOMRA and stay connected with Louisa, https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisa-hoyes-00725a47/https://www.tomra.comMore About Louisa HoyesWith a background in Environmental Science and Resource Management, Louisa joined TOMRA in 2019 where she has taken full responsibility for developing the textile sorting application. As textile recycling continues to gain attention, Louisa engages with diverse stakeholders across the value chain, supporting the move towards a new circular economy for textiles.I had the pleasure of meeting and hanging out with Louisa for the day a few weeks ago when she visited Sneaker Impact in Miami. TOMRA is one of our partners and the people behind the company like Louisa are the ones helping drive the partnership. So we want to introduce them to our community and get to know them better.Chapters00:05 Introduction and Guest Background01:20 Understanding TOMRA and its Role in Textile Recycling03:55 Louisa's Role and TOMRA's Impact on Textile Industry05:46 Challenges and Opportunities in the Recycling Industry09:00 TOMRA's Approach to Textile Recycling11:13 Comparing Recycling Practices Across Countries14:18 Sneaker Impact and TOMRA's Partnership19:48 Louisa's Personal Journey and Passions26:10 Challenges and Curiosities in the Waste and Recycling Industry40:27 Final Thoughts and Ways to Connect