Steve Sashen (Xero Shoes) - Building the ultimate minimalist shoe

Our guest today is Steven Sashen, one of the founders and CEO of Xero Shoes. Xero Shoes produces lightweight minimalist footwear designed for walking, running, and athletics.Here are some of the questions I ask Steven:How did you discover minimalism shoes and what led you to founding Zero Shoes?Bring us up to speed. What's wrong with cushioned shoes?What has been consumer reaction? Do you find there was already a market of consumers who knew about the detriments of cushioning in shoes or did it take lots of consumer education on your end?What does going all green mean to you and true environmental impact mean to you?Why did you decide to start with sandals?One of the things I love about your shoes is that I think they are pretty affordable. I got my Prios I think for $80 and they come with a 5,000 soleWas there a moment where you thought to yourself "hey this is actually working"? If so when did that moment occur?What was your approach to your supply chain?How did you think about expanding the number of products and SKUs?Can you unpack that in terms of quality control and traditionalIt seems like there are a number of shoe companies capitalizing on zero drop, but aren't truly minimalist. Can you unpack the differences?Why did you decide to raise venture capital and what was your fundraising strategy?Now you've raised private equity, what's the dynamic like having a board of directors and your decision making process?When it comes to your own decision making process, what were a few moments that you really learned from that influenced you as a leader?What's one thing you would change about consumer perception towards our feet?What's the best piece of advice that you've received?What's one piece of advice you have for entrepreneurs?