Blake Mycoskie: The Gift of Giving

We recently featured TOMS shoes and the concept behind the company was so interesting we decided to do an interview with the founder. I got to catch up with Blake Mycoskie (who calls himself Chief Shoe Giver) while he was in Dallas for an event honoring TOMS. He had just received the Cooper-Hewitt People’s Design Award – the National Design awards were conceived by the Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum to honor the best in American design. The core criteria are excellence, innovation, and contribution to the quality of life. Obviously, this is a tremendous honor since TOMS was only established 18 months ago. However, his fame and notoriety hasn’t gone to his head, Blake is extremely down to earth and easy to talk to. He grew up in Arlington, Texas and attended SMU and is very close family. His parents still reside in Arlington, his sister and Amazing Race partner, Paige, started her own fashion line, Aviator Nation, and his brother, Jordan, works with him at TOMS in LA.

Blake is an adventurous guy who lives life to the fullest. Currently, he is practicing living in things that move. He just finished a stint in an Airstream. Now, he calls a 45 foot Hunter Sailboat home. He’s a self taught sailor and when he isn’t traveling, loves sunset cruises. Sounds good, doesn’t it ladies? Blake is passionate, motivating, and humble. He hopes one day that TOMS will provide shoes to millions of people in need.

Thursday night you received the Cooper-Hewitt People’s Design Award. How did you feel when you learned you would be a recipient?

I couldn’t believe it. I had to give a speech in front of a lot of renowned designers. Isaac Mizrahi presented the award to me. I had only a day’s notice and I was a little nervous. I wrote my speech in the Smithsonian’s gift shop during the cocktail party. Fortunately, I sat next to a funny woman who helped put me at ease.

What does the future look like for TOMS?

Currently we are working on a canvas boot for fall and a higher end boot to market to Bergdorf’s and other upscale department stores. The higher end shoe may allow us to donate two pair for every one sold, but we will see.

You have always been an entrepreneur. Did you ever envision you’d be an entrepreneur while making an impact in the world?

No. I have no aspirations to die rich. I always imagined being successful and then donating money, but it is wonderful to be able to give as part of building a business.

I noticed you had some Tyler Ramsey limited editions. Any plans to work with other designers/artists? Who would be your dream pick?

We have been approached by others. To pick one dream designer or artist is hard. My dream would be to work with Peter Max. I really like his visions. He does a fantastic job combining colors and imagery.

What’s the best piece of advice your mom gave you?

Always be honest. It is so easy to get caught up in little white lies. It is important the way honesty reflects on your character, reputation, and integrity.

Is there a book you read that changed your life?

Richard Branson’s Losing My Virginity was very inspiring. It was interesting to read how he accomplished all that he has done. When I was 18 years old, I read Jack Kerouac’s On the Road. In the book, the two main characters learn from people of all backgrounds and social levels. I always remember that you can learn something from everyone.

Besides TOMS, what shoes do you wear?

Honestly, we started 18 months ago with TOMS and I haven’t worn another shoe since. The only exception is when I workout. I wear my Asics running shoes.

With all of this giving, what is your most touching moment?

An elementary school in Florida devoted a week to learning about those who give back. They honored me and invited me to visit the school. The kids made tons of pictures, necklaces, and bracelets for me. I actually still wear one of the necklaces a little girl made me. To see firsthand that young kids are capable of understanding the message of TOMS has a powerful impact. I realized that my message can get through to future generations.

You serve as a great role model to many people. Who is your role model/mentor?

I once played golf with the now deceased Bob Dedman. He said to me “The more you give, the more you live.” I used to carry that quote on a piece of paper in my wallet. Now, my mentor is Carl Westcott.

Tell us about your stint on the Amazing Race: Season Two.

My sister approached me with the idea and I thought why not. However, the auditions were before Season One aired, so we had no idea what we were getting into. We had a great time seeing 13 countries in 31 days. We lost by only 4 minutes.

You are well-traveled. What is your favorite destination?

Argentina. They are fun, hospitable people. The nightlife and tango clubs are a blast. All opposite of the negative press they received a couple years back. The new President has made and continues to make a lot of positive changes. I recommend anyone to visit there.