Bernardo Carreira is the founder and CEO of 8000Kicks, a pioneering Portuguese footwear brand that developed the world’s first waterproof hemp sneaker. Born and raised in Portugal, Bernardo was inspired to launch 8000Kicks after a late-night conversation with friends. After which he engaged the help of his grandmother, a textile expert with decades of experience. He’s since turned a passion for sustainability into a mission-driven business that challenges norms in fashion and footwear through innovative materials, ethical production, and family-centered values.
In this episode of The Sustainable Jungle Podcast, Joy sits down with Bernardo to hear the origin story of 8000Kicks, including how a casual brainstorm with friends (and help from his grandmother) became one of the most exciting and innovative sustainable footwear brands today.
🎧 In this episode, we cover:
- Bernardo’s personal journey and the 8000Kicks founding story
- Why hemp is the brand’s material of choice
- How 8000Kicks earned Top Rated status in our Brand Rating System
- How 8000Kicks balances product innovation with sustainability and performance
- The realities of building a purpose-driven brand from Lisbon to the global stage
- What the future holds for 8000Kicks
🔒 Members-only bonus:
In the extended bonus segment, we go behind the scenes to discuss the personal challenges of running a mission-led company, how Bernardo balances innovation with business realities (and a grueling workload), and some more killer advice for other sustainability focused entrepreneurs.
Stay tuned for guidance on how to become a member or register your interest in becoming a paid member here.
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