Sometimes you follow your gut for problem solving. And sometimes you follow your … feet? That, at least, is what Biran Beckstead did when he co-founded the running shoe company Altra. Looking to solve both his own running shoe problems and the problems of clients hitting up a store where he sold running shoes, he worked with a partner to design a shoe that did what they needed. What can designing a running shoe teach about building a business? And how does staying in touch with the outdoors make a difference? Brian shares his secrets as well as a few tips about shoe design (hint: it involves a toaster oven) in this fascinating episode.  Find Altra online, and follow Brian’s ultra running and fishing adventures on Instagram.  Mentioned in the show: Altra ShoesAltra EscalanteCross country runningBunions Neuromas Hammer toesMount MarathonLaura VanderkamBryce Canyon National ParkOrem, UtahFly fishingUltra Trail Mount FujiNew Zealand Favorite Gear: Altra Lone Peak Shoes & Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System Most Essential Gear: Positive Attitude Affiliate links included above. ----- Register for our newsletter for a chance to win a free Humans Outside decal: https://humansoutside.com/contact-us/ Don’t forget to follow @HumansOutside on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humansoutside/ Share your own outdoor life with the hashtag #humansoutside365. Connect with us on Facebook: https://humansoutside.com/ How are you spending your outdoor time? Leave us a message and we might feature you on our weekly Outdoor Diary episode. Call ‪(360) 362-5317‬.