Dallas-based Cassidy Edwards is the managing editor of CNK Daily, a women’s-focused sneaker platform that’s in the midst of preparing to open a store in the city. Juggling multiple roles with ease, she’s also worked in human resources for 15 years and sees both roles as providing a foundation for her and business partner, Channing Beumer, who founded CNK Daily.
“As a managing editor and business partner, I’ve learned that power skills create a foundation for success,” Edwards explained in an email exchange. “Businesses take power skills, which are often referred to as soft skills, for granted but they’ve enabled us to be very intentional as a team when it comes to communication, leaning into change management when pivoting and using some disruptive compassion when we rally for each other. Specifically in editorial, the skill of creative writing and telling stories has helped us articulate our own journey,” she added.
Hailing from Houston, Texas, Edwards perceives the Dallas sneaker community not merely as distinctive, but also as possessing a runway for growth.. “Overall, the South has something to say and there is a beautiful intersection of talent, style, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that we want to elevate through our business,” she said. “We always say that sneakers is what brings you to us, but community is what keeps you there. It’s why you stay. It’s so much more than just sneakers.”
Cassidy Edwards Nerds Out Over Her No. 1: Nike Zoom Vomero 5 x Doernbecher
Edwards said she chose Nike Zoom Vomero 5 x Doernbecher as her No. 1 pick for a couple of reasons. “I’m a nerd when it comes to sneaker story telling. I’m also a cool mom of three kids and really have a soft spot for what the Nike x Doernbecher program represents,” she explained. Edwards is referencing Nike’s partnership with Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) Doernbecher Children’s Hospital that includes a design collaboration with patients called Doernbecher Freestyle, which has raised over $31 million for the hospital since 2004.
Commenting on the design, Edwards added, “The small details in the Zoom Vomero empower me as an adult. I love that the patient/designer, Jaren Heacock, infused his cultural roots into the color story and sprinkled in his affinity for Nintendo games while empowering us with the message “Assembling the Future.” It took me back to my own childhood. I love bold colorways, where the shoe becomes a conversation starter and who doesn’t love a Vomero?!”
Check out all of Edward’s picks below.
