Nicks Boots Podcast: From Start to Finish
"From Start to Finish" is named for our founder, Nikolai Blahuczyn, who took pride in making boots by hand, as quoted: from start to finish. Nicks takes listeners into the world of handmade boots in the Pacific Northwest. Hosted by leadership at Nicks Handmade Boots, this podcast will cover a variety of topics. From the traditional methods used by craftsmen to create one-of-a-kind designs, to the challenges faced by small businesses in today's fast-paced industry. If you're a fan of Nicks Handmade Boots, or simply curious about the world of handmade footwear, this podcast is for you. Join us as we delve into the world of American-made boots and discover the passion and expertise that goes into every pair of Nicks Handmade Boots.
Episodes
99 episodes
What happened to the porta-pottie!?
In this episode, the team reflects on the challenges and successes of a major shop renovation. They share behind-the-scenes stories about moving equipment and reorganizing production while still making boots, highlighting how the chaos ultimate...
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Episode 99
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26:12
The Honest Truth Behind Lead Times
Why do some Nicks Boots orders ship faster than others? In this episode, Shuyler, Rebecca, and Kelsey break down the real factors behind lead times—from leather availability and tannery delays to production limitations and Quick Ship prioritiza...
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Episode 98
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17:39
Nicks Boots Q&A: The WORST Train Ever
In this episode of the Nicks Boots Podcast, we’re answering your questions!From boot builds and break-in tips to leather options, sizing advice, and behind-the-scenes insight into how we do things here at Nicks—this Q&A covers it all. W...
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Episode 97
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35:13
The Transformation of Leather—and Life
In this episode, we share highlights from our annual Nicks Contender Championship Finale—including Jono’s incredible story of hiking national parks in his Urban Loggers, getting engaged, and stepping into a new life in Vermont. We also feature ...
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Episode 96
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23:10
The Mysterious Disappearance of David Langley – Part Two
Welcome back to part two of our deep dive into the unexplained disappearance of 32-year-old David Langley. In last week's episode, we uncovered the strange circumstances surrounding Langley’s vanishing. A reserved groundskeeper at Mt. Calvary C...
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Episode 95
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7:10
Let's Talk About Leather Goods!
We're shaking things up in this episode! Join Lucas and Luke as they dive into an engaging back-and-forth, exchanging questions about the Small Goods Department. But that’s not all—producer Kelsey has thrown in a few unexpected curveballs...
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Episode 94
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42:19
Nicks Boots Q&A: New Models, HD Line, Quick Ship & More!
In this episode, we tackle your top questions about what's next for Nicks Boots in 2025, including plans to expand ThZD with new models and sizes, our favorite (and most surprising) additions to the catalog this year, and a special teaser for t...
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Episode 93
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29:17
What's New at Nicks Boots: Leather Options, Zero Drop, and Fresh Content
In this episode, we’re catching you up on everything new happening at Nicks. We’re expanding configuration options for Wickett & Craig leathers, giving you more options than ever to build your perfect pair of boots. Plus, we’ve officially l...
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Episode 92
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21:30
Round 2 Recap: Contender Championship 2025
The second round of the Contender Championship 2025 is officially wrapped up! A huge thank you to everyone who participated—your dedication and craftsmanship continue to impress. We’re inspired by the talent in this community and appreciate eac...
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Episode 91
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22:59
Nicks Most Controversial Product Launch Yet
https://nicksboots.com/strider-zero-drop/Zero Drop has come to the PNW! The Strider is our first-ever boot built on a true Zero Drop last. The Thurman-ZD last provides an anatomical foot shape with the more tactile feel of the zero drop...
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Episode 90
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14:36
Why are Wickett & Craig Leathers More Expensive?
Welcome back to the Nicks Boots Podcast! This episode, we’re diving into your Reddit questions, covering everything from Dr. Sole half soles on Packer boots to the best leather for hand feel. We also break down why Wickett & Craig leathers ...
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Episode 89
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25:54
Nicks Boots X Horween: The Making of New Spokane
Join us for this episode of the Nicks Boots Podcast as Shuyler sits down with Nick and John from Horween Leather Co. We’re diving deep into Horween’s rich history, exploring how they’ve perfected the art of leather tanning for over a c...
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Episode 88
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35:04
Work Contender CHAMPIONS!
The first phase of the Contender Championship 2025 is officially in the books! A huge thank you to everyone who submitted an entry—your stories and dedication have been the talk of the shop. We’re continually inspired by the passion and skill w...
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Episode 87
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24:21
Revamping the Nicks Experience
In this episode of the Nicks Boots "From Start to Finish" podcast, Shuyler, Rebecca, and producer Kelsey discuss the latest company updates and initiatives as we kick off the year. Highlights include the launch of Spokane Leathers in collaborat...
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Episode 86
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21:35
Let's Talk About the New Spokane Leather
Spokane is a new Horween leather that seamlessly blends traditional formulas with modern technology to create a material that is both durable and aesthetically appealing. Spokane takes the base tannage of the ChromePak article and introduces a ...
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Episode 85
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14:01
Answering Your Reddit Questions - Vol.11
We're back with a classic - the Q&A! Join us today as Shuyler, and Rebecca sit down to answer some of your burning questions from Reddit. As always thanks for listening & thank you for being a part of our community!If y...
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Episode 84
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15:39
Prepping for the Contender Championship - ROUND 2
Get ready—it's time for the 2nd Annual Contender Championship! This year, we're shaking things up with some exciting new twists. Shuyler and Lucas are breaking it all down in our latest episode, so don’t miss out! Want to stay in the loop or th...
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Episode 83
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13:26
Celebrating Success & Preparing for Growth
Welcome to the Nicks Boots: From Start to Finish podcast! In this episode, Shuyler is joined by Lucas, Rebecca, and Kelsey to reflect on 2024 and share plans for 2025. They discuss milestones like completing an ISO audit, improving customer ser...
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32:53
Behind the Scenes: Nicks Production’s Journey Through 2024
In this episode, Shuyler sits down with a few of the key bootamkers at Nicks to reflect on achievements, challenges, and lessons of 2024. Together, they share insights on what’s coming next for 2025, discussing innovations, goals, and the evolv...
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Episode 81
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33:54
A Closer Look at the Ranchman Jacket
Shop Ranchman: https://nicksboots.com/nicks-x-heat-straps-ranchman-jacket/Shop Patriot Type 3: https://nicksboots.com/patriot-type-3-jacket/Shop Patriot Type 1: https://nicksboots.com/patriot-type-1-jacket/Helpful Links:Nick...
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Episode 80
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15:05
NEW Customization Options at Nicks!
https://nicksboots.com/shop/custom-boots/In this episode of the Nicks Boots "From Start to Finish" podcast, Shuyler and Lucas explore the new customizable options in the Nicks Boots website. From custom uppers to full Polarthin lining a...
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Episode 79
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15:16
Our Biggest Heat Straps Drop Ever
We're sitting down with Heat Straps to chat about the new jackets. Shop Ranchman: https://nicksboots.com/nicks-x-heat-straps-ranchman-jacket/Shop Patriot Type 3: https://nicksboots.com/patriot-type-3-jacket/Shop Patriot Typ...
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Episode 78
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29:00
How Hard Work Shaped a Family
In this episode, we dive into the roots of hard work, craftsmanship, and family legacy with a look back at a life shaped by logging and labor. From stories of danger and perseverance in the woods to lessons learned from a grandfather’s unwaveri...
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Episode 77
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23:29
Boots on the Ground: Hunting, Gear, and Tradition with 6 Ranch’s James Nash
In this episode, Tate sits down with James Nash from 6 Ranch, a sixth-generation ranch rooted in Oregon. Together, they dive into a world where tradition meets the modern outdoors. They discuss hunting, the essential gear for backcountry expedi...
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Episode 76
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23:26