A Career That Balances The Best of Both Worlds: Designer Brett Golliff Talks Footwear and Automotive Design

On this episode of the Cars and Kicks Show, Jacques Slade, Erik Valdez, and Nick Engvall, welcome Brett Golliff, a multifaceted designer in the sneaker and automotive industries. The conversation explores Brett's journey from a young artist fascinated by sneakers and cars to his current role in the footwear industry and his experiences at General Motors. The discussion also delves into the current state of the footwear market, Brett's design philosophy, and insights into automotive design, particularly the Corvette. The episode highlights the intersection of passion, design, and community in both industries. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate processes of design in both the automotive and footwear industries. They discuss the lengthy timelines involved in bringing a product from concept to market, the balance between aesthetics and performance, and the importance of communication and collaboration among team members. Mentorship and the influence of key figures in the design world are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for healthy debate and the willingness to challenge ideas to achieve the best outcomes. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of collaboration in creative processes, emphasizing the importance of communication and healthy discussions among team members. They explore the balance between passion and professionalism, highlighting the need for parameters to channel creativity effectively. The discussion transitions into the journey of learning and teaching, with insights on how personal growth influences teaching methods. The speakers also reflect on generational differences in sports and design, discussing how to connect with younger generations. Finally, they wrap up with quickfire questions that reveal personal insights and experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

06:20 Brett's Journey into Sneakers and Cars

10:00 Current Endeavors and Career Path

15:07 The State of the Footwear Industry

19:02 Brett's Design Philosophy and Background

24:08 Insights on Automotive Design and Corvette Development

25:05 The Long Road to Design

31:06 Balancing Aesthetics and Performance

40:02 The Art of Communication in Design

44:02 Mentorship and Influence in Design

49:48 The Importance of Collaboration in Creative Processes

52:23 Balancing Passion and Professionalism

53:43 The Journey of Learning and Teaching

57:14 Connecting Generations Through Sports and Design

01:03:38 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

All of the links you need: https://www.carsxkicks.com

The Cars and Kicks Show is hosted by:

Jacques Slade is a multifaceted creator that explores the world of footwear and sports through the lens of culture. Through sneakers and golf, Jacques has cultivated an industry leading voice in the industry that can be seen online and on television. Or he is just an idiot. The jury is still out on that.

Erik Valdez is a husband, father, actor, producer, and creator, whose passion and knowledge for cars is unmatched. You might have seen him on shows like General Hospital, Graceland, or Superman & Lois. He’s driven in the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge, the Baja 1000, and the number of cars he’s owned would rival the how collections of many sneakerheads.

Nick Engvall is a consultant and creator who helps brands make more authentic connections with their customers. His obsession with cars and sneakers both toe the line of unhealthiness that is best described as, overly passionate. If he’s not recording podcasts, he’s probably at the burrito shop or chasing down ocean sunsets.