
Hi, I’m Mike Normart,
This is my journey in the footwear industry that shares tips on what I’ve learned starting from when I began in 1980.
I start out with my adventures in store management with three different companies and on to my 11 year run with Nordstrom. I had many wonderful mentors at Nordstrom and strengthened my buying skills. Finally I share my amazing 18+ year journey at Zappos and continue to what the future may bring.
I’m sharing my journey for those who are hoping to get into the shoe industry, or for those who are looking for tips from an old shoe dog. I hope you enjoy! Mike
Mike Normart
Acknowledgements: People who made a difference in my career
William Normart my Dad
Wilma Normart my Mom
Si Normart my Grandmother
Jim Dalton my First Footwear Mentor
Martha Banuelos First Nordstrom Mentor
Michael Tibbs – Nordstrom
Steve Von Ruden – Nordstrom
Gail LaLumiere Kid’s Shoes Mentor
Rob Shields “Narrow & Deep” Mentor
Jack Minuk – Nordstrom
Jim A. Nordstrom – Arden Fair
Jean Claude Lachkar – Nordstrom Arden Fair
Blake Nordstrom – “Extend Yourself”
Daryl Curley – Nordstrom Buddy I really miss…
Jim Lee – Family Mentor
Fred Mossler – Zappos – “Go Big or Go Home”
Aaron Brown – Nordstrom, Zappos
Tony Hsieh – Zappos -“People remember how you made them feel”
Linda Normart -Soul-Mate
Jennifer Hoeksema – Daughter
James Normart – Son