On this episode of the Cars and Kicks podcast, hosts Jacques, Erik, and Nick reflect on the year in sneakers and cars, focusing on significant collaborations, storytelling in sneaker culture, and the personal connections that make certain releases special. They emphasize the importance of self-expression through both cars and sneakers, celebrating the unique narratives behind their favorite moments of the year. In this conversation, the speakers delve into people's emotional connections with their local cultures, cars, and sneakers. They discuss the significance of personal stories behind products, the impact of innovative collaborations in both fashion and automotive industries, and the polarizing rebranding of Jaguar. The conversation highlights the evolution of lifestyle branding and the importance of connecting with younger generations through shared passions. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the evolving landscape of car marketing, emphasizing the importance of connecting with younger generations through cultural relevance. They reflect on their experiences at the Luftgekühlt event, highlighting the cross-generational appeal of car culture. The discussion also touches on innovations in the automotive industry, particularly focusing on brands like Rivian and Genesis, and concludes with shoutouts to supporters and a look ahead to 2025.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Year-End Episode

02:59 Celebrating Collaborations in Sneakers

05:57 The Importance of Storytelling in Sneaker Culture

09:05 Highlighting Special Releases and Personal Connections

12:02 The Role of Self-Expression in Cars and Kicks

24:05 Exploring Local Culture and Connections

25:55 The Emotional Connection to Cars and Sneakers

27:59 Innovative Collaborations in Fashion and Automotive

30:01 The Importance of Personal Stories

33:08 The Jaguar Rebrand: A Polarizing Moment

39:51 The Evolution of Lifestyle Branding in Automotive

46:10 Connecting Generations Through Passion for Cars and Sneakers

47:05 The Evolution of Car Marketing

50:03 Celebrating Car Culture: The Luftgekühlt Experience

55:37 Cross-Cultural Connections in Cars and Sneakers

01:01:16 Innovations in the Automotive Industry

01:05:01 Shoutouts and Reflections on 2024

The Cars and Kicks Show is hosted by:

Jacques Slade is a multifaceted creator that explores the world of footwear and sports through the lens of culture. Through sneakers and golf, Jacques has cultivated an industry leading voice in the industry that can be seen online and on television. Or he is just an idiot. The jury is still out on that.

Erik Valdez is a husband, father, actor, producer, and creator, whose passion and knowledge for cars is unmatched. You might have seen him on shows like General Hospital, Graceland, or Superman & Lois. He’s driven in the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge, the Baja 1000, and the number of cars he’s owned would rival the how collections of many sneakerheads.

Nick Engvall is a consultant and creator who helps brands make more authentic connections with their customers. His obsession with cars and sneakers both toe the line of unhealthiness that is best described as, overly passionate. If he’s not recording podcasts, he’s probably at the burrito shop or chasing down ocean sunsets.