1. What's your name, where are you from and what's your occupation?
Hello, my name is Randall Engstrom, and I am proud to call San Diego, CA home sweet home. I am the owner and operator of Randall's Sandals.

2. What inspired you to start Randall's Sandals?
I was inspired to open a sandal store by our warm weather and amazing beach communities. What was once a simple concept of selling sandals at the beach to locals and tourists has matured into carrying only the best Local, Eco Friendly, and Charitable beach essentials for our conscious consumers. My store is a great option for folks who want to help, but don't know how or don't feel they have the time to help. We give our
community a convenient place to donate old shoes and sandals that we are proud to keep out of the landfills and get recycled or redistributed to the needy here and around the globe; while offering a discount on the more local, eco friendly, and charitable products.

3. What has been the most rewarding experience in running your business?
For me, the most rewarding aspects are interacting with my customers and community and hearing stories from my neighbors and visitors from around the world. The other rewarding aspect is getting to educate these same people about the textile/retail industry and how our products are leaving a lasting, positive impact on our planet and our people. 

4. What has been the most challenging experience in running your business? 
There are so many challenges for a small start up, where to begin! Obvious two: Time and Money, haha. A lot of people see success as a straight steady incline, but that is far from the case. It's a roller coaster ride. My theory is that if you face those challenges head on, and not run and hide, there is a good chance your business will be successful, and an even better chance that you will grow into a stronger, smarter person. 
 
5. Why do you carry SOLO Eyewear in your store?
SOLO Eyewear is a perfect fit for my store and mission. It falls under all 3 of the criteria to enter into Randall's Sandals; Local, Eco-friendly, and Charitable beach essentials. I love that it was created locally at San Diego State University, they are made out of repurposed and recycled components, and the best part is that they are helping
provide PEOPLE eye care in order to function in life. That is what is known as a triple threat or trifecta of goodness and we LOVE it!!
6. What's your favorite adventure?
I love Choose your Own adventure books, haha. Seriously, just being in the ocean is my favorite. It's amazing how little of our oceans has been explored. It's like a whole new planet below the sea, I love it! 

7. What's your favorite give back experience?
I am so fortunate to be in this amazing community. Because of everyone's donations, we have provided over 1400 pairs of shoes to people in need. By doing so, they are better able to find employment, pursue an education and live more fulfilling lives. 

8. What is one thing that you're looking forward to right now?
I'm looking forward to traveling the world and visiting more remote areas. I want to immerse myself in other communities and see what steps we need to take to help make life a little easier for everyone.

9. If someone wants to continue following you and your story, what's the best way to do so?
If you'd like to learn more about Randall's Sandals and see what daily life and our adventures are like, visit our website or follow us on Instagram. We love hearing from you! Feel free to reach out. We can talk about making the world a better place together!