I’ve talked about Shoe Dog before, and for good reason. It tells the story of how Phil Knight built Nike, a company that revolutionized running shoes and sports culture. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and relentless pursuit—many of the same qualities we aim for at Peregrune.
But recently, a friend pointed something out that I hadn’t fully appreciated at first. Shoe Dog isn’t just about building a great product or pushing through obstacles—it’s about assembling the right team.
Phil Knight didn’t build Nike alone. At every crucial stage, he found the right people—those who could run sales and marketing, those who could navigate legal challenges, those who could expand distribution. More importantly, they weren’t just employees. They were believers, people willing to go all in with him. That’s what made Nike take off.
A lot of companies don’t take off. Maybe the product isn’t great. But sometimes, it’s because they don’t find the right people. And that idea applies beyond business.
All of you have goals you’re chasing—especially in running. Who is on your team?
Your team could be a coach guiding your training. A running partner keeping you accountable. A physical therapist keeping you healthy. The right people can help you go farther than you ever could alone.
If there’s one lesson from Shoe Dog, it’s this: don’t go it alone. Surround yourself with the right people, and, of course Just Do It.