Proof Culture x NRF | Pigeons on the Hill

Last week, I found myself back on Capitol Hill. But this wasn’t a first-time moment—it was a continuation. Another step in the journey I’ve been on as a founder, a builder, and someone who knows firsthand how policy decisions ripple through businesses like mine every single day.

This time, I had the honor of joining the National Retail Federation (NRF) for their Small Business Tariff Fly-In in Washington, D.C.—alongside some incredible voices. I stood next to Nati Mazor, CEO of Reed Leather out of Detroit, and leaders from two of the largest national retailers in the country. Four different perspectives. One shared goal: ensuring that businesses, large and small, are not just present—but heard and considered.

At Proof Culture, we’re rooted in sneaker culture. But we’re also rooted in community. In entrepreneurship. In resilience. And as we scale, it becomes more and more clear: the decisions made in D.C. directly impact how we grow, how we hire, and how we serve.

This trip was about speaking up on tariffs, tax policy, and the challenges small business owners face in an unpredictable retail landscape. But it was also about visibility. Making sure that when lawmakers think about commerce, they don’t just see spreadsheets and supply chains—they remember there are people behind those SKUs. Stories. Families. Dreams.

And yes—I wore my Staple Pigeons to the Hill.

Because wearing dress shoes wasn’t an option—and Capitol Hill already had the security detail on lock.

We’re going to keep showing up.

We’re going to keep making a difference.

And we’re going to keep building.

We’re just getting started...