By Jill Roberts / March 4, 2019
“Shoe Dog,” is a memoir by the creator of Nike, Phil Knight. In it, Knight tells the story of the company from its very beginnings under the founding name “Blue Ribbon Sports.” The insightful read exposes Knights relaxed, but strategic management style, and the many challenges he faced while organically growing his idea into a billion-dollar multinational corporation.
In 1962, with $50, and a shitload of courage, Knight made a deal with a Japanese manufacturer to import and distribute its Tiger brand running shoes in the United States. This respected but tumultuous relationship would later serve as the catalyst for the introduction of the Nike brand in 1972. Knight recalls the ethical ledge he walked many times during the Company’s adolescence, and describes in detail the financial risks he took to perpetuate the company’s growth.
This riveting memoir reveals the personal sacrifices one makes in exchange to giving attention to growing a company. Knight, who is now in his 80s, offers a critical, but heartfelt reflection that is certain to inspire and comfort anyone who is flirting or has already made the jump to becoming a successful entrepreneur.