The Path Depends on Phil's Choice of Name

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The only way to have built what they built was to have endured what they endured in a system that was stacked against them. Plenty of other companies maxed out their available credit and debt all the time and had a 100% liabilities to assets ratio and went out of business. And Nike almost does. So when this happens, when he gets thrown out of the banks, Phil needs to do something to raise money. The only thing he can think of is to do a small public offering, like a local IPO. Remember how Ben and Jerry's was the first direct listing? Yeah.

Nike — it’s perhaps the most iconic and most prolific brand of the modern era. On any given day, swooshes adorn the feet of more people on earth than any other footwear company — by a long shot.

If you read Shoe Dog or watched Air, you may think you know its history. But Shoe Dog ends in 1980, and Air… well let’s just say it’s an enjoyable piece of fiction. And it turns out (as always) that the real story is filled with far more drama, twists and business lessons than either of those works.

We’ve been wanting to cover Nike for a long time, and thanks to our LPs who voted to choose this episode it’s finally here. So lace up your Vaporflys, Air Maxes, Dunks or Jordans (or your Monarchs, hey we don’t judge), head out for a long run or walk and enjoy!

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Marc Andreessen on Lex Fridman and on Ben Thompson
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‍Note: Acquired hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.