Eric Liedtke: Sneaker Culture and Eco-Friendly Innovation
How can a brand be both innovative and environmentally conscious? Eric Liedtke, co-founder, and CEO of the Unless Collective, joins us to share his visionary approach to regenerative fashion, where apparel is crafted entirely from plant-based materials without a trace of plastic. Eric's illustrious 26-year career at Adidas, during which he led major brands like Reebok and Yeezy and turned Adidas' e-commerce into a multi-billion-dollar empire, lends credence to his insights on the intersection of sustainability, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
We explore the fascinating world of sneaker culture, from the intricate design process to the entrepreneurial risks and rewards that come with pursuing one's passion. Eric recounts pivotal moments that shaped Adidas' legacy, including significant cultural and strategic shifts, high-profile athlete recruitments, and collaborations with fashion designers like Kanye West and Yoji Yamamoto. His stories reveal the delicate balance of leveraging regional strengths and fostering genuine connections between American and German teams to drive success in global markets.
Tune in as Eric discusses the journey toward a sustainable future in fashion, emphasizing the importance of eco-friendly materials and conscious consumerism. From Adidas' pioneering use of recovered ocean plastic to his current endeavor with the Unless Collective, Eric offers a compelling case for the critical role of innovation and resilience in transforming the industry. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the future of fashion and sustainability.
