Hardware Podcasts

Hippy Feet is the coolest company you haven't heard about until now! Michael Mader, CEO

People of Packaging · 5 Nov 2025 · 35m

What this episode covers

Michael Mader, founder of Hippy Feet, explains how a traumatic brain injury during his senior year of college inspired him to build a business that acts as a support system for people experiencing homelessness. He details the company's evolution from a 'buy one, give one' donation model to an employment program for homeless youth, and finally to a strategy of donating profits to nonprofits that provide comprehensive care. Mader also discusses the significant challenges of sourcing American-made custom socks and knitwear, highlighting the difficulty of convincing established manufacturers to take a risk on a new brand and the importance of building personal relationships with factory owners.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Hippy Feet, Label King, Tom Shoes, Bombas, Microsoft, Pixar, United Healthcare, HubSpot, Peace Coffee, Tahin, Wharton School of Business, Pendleton, Heritage West
Also
Friends of the Boundary Waters

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