Kate Meets Blake: Founder of TOMS Shoes

It was an exciting moment this week when I got a chance to meet Blake Mycoskie, Founder of TOMS Shoes. (You may recall my earlier blog where I shyly confessed my Living by Giving crush on Blake.) 

Blake spoke to the students at Vanderbilt University and we got a backdoor pass to get some inspirational time with the social entrepreneur and some of the students.

He is modest, yes, but also very proud of what he has created - and able to deliver a message to young adults of how fulfilling work and life can be, if you make the bottom line about more than just money.  His business model is simple: One for one. Every time you buy a pair of TOMS Shoes, TOMS gives a pair away to a child in need. Inspiring. Impactful. And sustainable.

We asked Blake how someone can start "living by giving", you may be surprised by his answer.  Check out our first clip from our interview with Blake.   

Stay tuned for more clips and our interview with a very charming student who is also Living by Giving. (To purchase your very own pair of TOMS visit www.TOMSshoes.com)

Did you know that Blake and his sister were on Season 2 of the Amazing Race?  He and his sister Paige lost the million dollar prize by 4 minutes...because Blake didn't want to stop for directions.  I guess we are all given second chances.  Blake's came when he revisited Argentina to volunteer in a small village and saw how many people, especially children, didn't have shoes. 

Comments

[Christy]

Excellent interview Kate! Blake is such an inspiration - I absolutely love the Tom's story. So simple. You are both increbile people who know how fantastic life can be when you are Living by Giving. Thanks for posting. Christy

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