#517 Designing With Purpose: Wilson W. Smith III on Faith, Conviction & Creative Leadership

In Part 3 of 4 of Shoe In Show's Behind the Design: A Masterclass in Sneaker Design, legendary Nike designer Wilson W. Smith III shares the personal foundation behind his work — from faith and conviction to the mindset required to lead creatively at the highest level. Moving beyond product and performance, Wilson reflects on the inner drivers that shaped his approach to design, leadership, and collaboration throughout his career. This episode explores how purpose influences creativity, how belief fuels resilience, and why the strongest design decisions often come from clarity within. Powered by Jones & Vining, this conversation offers a rare look at the human side of innovation — and the values that sustain it. With special guest: Wilson W. Smith III, Footwear Design Director Hosted by: Matt Priest

You can listen to #517 Designing With Purpose: Wilson W. Smith III on Faith, Conviction & Creative Leadership online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

#517 Designing With Purpose: Wilson W. Smith III on Faith, Conviction & Creative Leadership is an episode from Shoe-In by Paula Bellenoit.

This episode is 32:26 long.

This episode was published on Feb 16, 2026.

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