#473 The Odd Couple: How Big Brands and Small Innovators Can Best Work Together with Alan Lugo, Founder, alanandres LLC, and Stephanie Downs, CEO, Uncaged Innovations

Shoe-In · 2025-04-21

33:31

How can footwear brands better collaborate with startups to spark real innovation? In this episode, Alan Lugo, Founder, alanandres LLC, and Stephanie Downs, CEO, Uncaged Innovations dive into the disconnect between emerging material innovators and established brands. From navigating R&D hurdles to reshaping risk mindsets, they offer practical strategies for building stronger, more sustainable partnerships that drive the future of footwear.

With special guests:

Alan Lugo, Founder, alanandres LLC and Stephanie Downs, CEO and Co-Founder, UNCAGED Innovations

Hosted by:

Andy Polk, FDRA

Shoe-In

Covering the ins and outs of all things footwear, from sneakers to heels, loafers to slippers and every type of shoe in between. Brought to you by the FDRA and FFANY, the footwear industry’s associations focused on retail, trade, politics and fashion…helping create and enhance conversations on all things footwear.

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