Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike
A book review of Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
Summary:
The memoir of Phil Knight’s life and the rise of Nike from his dream to the brand it is today.
Review:
This is the second time I’ve read this book and it was just as good, if not better this time around. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Phil Knight’s dream to start a shoe company utilizing superior Japanese shoes imported into the U.S. in the 60’s, just 20ish years post WW2 and how he managed to not only succeed in creating a brand, but one of the biggest brands in the world.
The story of the ride to get there is a fascinating one. He didn’t expect to make any of the decisions he did along the way, but they somehow worked out in the end. It’s nice to think that life would eventually produce such kindness for all of us.
There were so many years of struggle. Barely making ends meet. Mistakes and slip-ups that nearly cost him the business, among other things. Mr. Knight is a dedicated runner and shoe dog (a term for someone who loves the craft of shoe making) and business man - but he is also human. He doesn’t hide his flaws in leadership style, in relationships with his wife and kids, or even his own internal struggles.
That’s what stuck out to me on this read, more than anything else, was how much his leadership style lacked encouragement and kind words for those who followed him. Yet, several characters in his life story stuck it through with him anyway, because they believed in the brand and it paid off eventually. Plus, he clearly knows and has learned from his flaws over time.
The story is inspirational in many ways. It will make you think about dreaming big, about sticking out tough times, about showing appreciation to those who stick by your side even when you’re at your ugliest. It’ll make you want to travel, explore new things, possibly even strap on a pair of running shoes and go for a jog (though that’s not a requirement, I’m just a runner who loves it.)
I’d highly recommend this one if you’ve never given it a chance. It’s one of my favorite memoirs I’ve read.