Aug. 13, 2025

🌴226. The White Sneaker Revolution in the Sky

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Show Notes

As many of you know, Bangkok is my favourite city in the world. I love it so much my car number plate even says Bangkok. So when I saw Bangkok Airways—Thailand’s boutique airline—making headlines this week, I knew I had to share it.

This is the kind of small-but-mighty change that makes me want to high-five an entire organisation: Bangkok Airways is swapping out cabin crew’s traditional footwear for brand-new white sneakers. And not just any sneakers—these are a collaboration with PUMA, built for both men and women, made with 30% recycled materials, and designed under the concept “Move for Better Together.”

Why does this matter? Because cabin crew spend long hours on their feet, moving quickly through cramped spaces. Comfortable, supportive shoes aren’t just a perk—they’re essential. And yes, they can still look sharp and professional (these Puma Romas do exactly that).

In this episode, I explore:

Why this move is more than a fashion statement—it’s about employee well-being.
The broader shift in airline uniform culture (and who else is already on board).
How footwear affects performance, whether you’re at 35,000 feet or facilitating in a corporate boardroom.
My own rules for comfort vs. style in professional settings.
What JJ Peterson from StoryBrand told me about the most underrated tool in a facilitator’s kit.

Also—yes—I now want a pair of these sneakers myself.

If you’ve ever spent a whole day standing, moving, or running workshops, you’ll get why this matters. And maybe, just maybe, this trend will inspire other workplaces to think differently about what “professional” looks like.

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Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.com

P.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help: