Cobbler: How I Disrupted an Industry, Fell From Grace, and Came Back Stronger Than Ever

Steve Madden has built a global, multi-billion dollar shoe company from a $1,100 start-up. His book, "The Cobbler," shares his mistakes, struggles with addiction, and lessons learned, offering a unique business perspective and inspiring readers to create positive change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2020
Publisher: EverAfter Romance

Few people are aware of Steve Madden's story, despite his well-known name and shoes. Steve Madden has transformed his eponymous shoe company from a small startup he founded with just $1,100 into a global, multi-billion dollar brand over the past thirty years. However, his mistakes, including his struggles with addiction and the financial shortcuts that led to his imprisonment, are equally significant to his story as his most iconic shoes. In this raw, intimate, and ultimately inspiring book, Madden reveals everything that led him to this point and the lessons he has learned along the way. From his unconventional hiring strategies to his unwavering commitment to product quality, Madden offers a unique business perspective that complements his distinctive styles.

In "The Cobbler," readers are taken on a wild ride through Madden's rise, fall, and comeback. But more than that, they are uplifted by a man who has owned up to his mistakes and is determined to use his hard-won platform to create positive change.

Madden's journey begins with his humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in a working-class family, he was always fascinated by shoes and dreamed of owning his own business. After dropping out of high school, he worked various jobs to save up enough money to start his shoe company.

Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, Madden remained determined to succeed. He started his company with just $1,100 and a few pairs of shoes he had designed himself. He spent countless hours working in his garage, experimenting with different materials and styles, and trying to attract customers.

Madden's early success was fueled by his passion for his product and his willingness to take risks. He was known for his unconventional hiring strategies, which involved hiring people who were not traditionally suited for the fashion industry. He also had a strong belief in product quality, which led him to invest in high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

However, Madden's success was not without its setbacks. He struggled with addiction, which led to financial problems and legal troubles. In 2001, he was sentenced to three years in prison for tax evasion and bank fraud.

Despite the setbacks, Madden remained determined to turn his life around. He spent his time in prison learning about himself and his mistakes, and he came out of prison with a renewed sense of purpose.

Upon his release, Madden started his shoe company again, this time with a renewed focus on sustainability and social responsibility. He began to use eco-friendly materials in his shoes and he started to give back to his community by supporting various charities and organizations.

Madden's comeback was met with widespread acclaim. His shoes became even more popular, and he was recognized as a leader in the fashion industry. He was also honored with numerous awards, including the Fashion Icon Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and the Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Ernst & Young.

In addition to his business success, Madden has also been an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. He has spoken publicly about his struggles with addiction and has worked to raise awareness about the importance of seeking help and support.

In conclusion, Steve Madden's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the ability to learn from mistakes. From a small startup with just $1,100, he has transformed his company into a global, multi-billion dollar brand. But his mistakes, including his battle with addiction and his financial shortcuts, are as important to his story as his most iconic shoes.

In "The Cobbler," Madden shares his journey with honesty and vulnerability, offering a unique business perspective that is as inspiring as it is informative. Readers will walk away from this book uplifted by a man who has owned up to his mistakes and come back determined to give back and use his hard-won platform to create positive change.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 162 x 236 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781635766950