Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Boger.
Hi Erika, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
At Boger’s Shoes, our mission has always been simple: help people move more comfortably and live more active lives.
What began as a family-owned shoe store has grown into a trusted retail shoe store and full-service pedorthic facility, built on personalized service, expert shoe fitting, and a genuine commitment to every customer. As our community’s needs have grown, we’ve expanded our services to include custom orthotics, diabetic footwear, shoe modifications, shoe lifts, and in-house orthotic fabrication.
Today, our dedicated team includes Certified Pedorthists, experienced retail shoe fitters, non-patient orthotic technicians, a patient records coordinator, and knowledgeable office staff who work together to provide exceptional care and service. From the first phone call to the final fitting, every team member plays an important role in helping our customers and patients achieve greater comfort and mobility.
While much has changed over the years, one thing has remained the same—our commitment to treating every person who walks through our doors like family. At Boger’s Shoes, we’re proud to combine expert care with hometown service, helping our community take every step in comfort.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most small businesses, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Retail has changed tremendously over the years, and we’ve had to continually adapt to changes in consumer shopping habits, reimbursement requirements, rising costs, and increasing competition from online retailers.
One of our biggest challenges has been balancing the retail side of our business with the medical side. As a pedorthic facility, we are committed to providing exceptional patient care while also navigating complex insurance and Medicare regulations. It requires constant attention to detail and a team that is dedicated to doing things the right way.
Finding and developing great employees has also been an ongoing challenge. We invest heavily in training because we believe knowledgeable, compassionate staff are what set Boger’s Shoes apart. Our team—from our Certified Pedorthists and retail shoe fitters to our non-patient orthotic technicians, patient records coordinator, office staff, and management—works together every day to provide the level of service our customers and patients deserve.
Through every challenge, we’ve stayed focused on our mission of helping people. Our loyal customers, the support of our community, and our incredible team have allowed us to continue growing while staying true to the values that we believe in.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As the owner of Boger’s Shoes, I have the privilege of leading a business that is truly dedicated to improving people’s quality of life. We are much more than a retail shoe store—we are a full-service pedorthic facility that specializes in properly fitting footwear, custom orthotics, diabetic shoes and inserts, shoe modifications, and other solutions that help people stay active and comfortable.
What I enjoy most is making sure our team has the resources, training, and support they need to provide exceptional care and customer service. Every person’s feet, lifestyle, and health needs are different, and I’m proud that our team takes the time to listen, evaluate, educate, and find the right solution for each individual. While I work behind the scenes managing the business and overseeing our operations, it’s incredibly rewarding to know that our staff helps people dealing with foot pain, diabetes, mobility issues, or those simply looking for the best fit leave feeling better than when they came in.
What I’m most proud of is the team we’ve built and the reputation we’ve earned in our community. Our Certified Pedorthists, retail shoe fitters, non-patient orthotic technicians, patient records coordinator, office staff, and management team all share the same commitment to exceptional customer service and patient care. Every member of our team plays an important role in creating the experience our customers have come to expect.
I believe what sets Boger’s Shoes apart is the combination of clinical expertise and personal service. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We take the time to properly fit every customer, work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers, fabricate many orthotic devices in-house, and build lasting relationships with the people we serve. Many of our customers have trusted us for years and now bring their children and grandchildren to us, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
At the end of the day, we’re not just helping people find shoes—we’re helping them walk with less pain, stay independent, and enjoy a better quality of life. That’s what makes this work so rewarding.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve never considered myself to be a very outgoing or naturally social person, so networking has never come easily to me. Instead of trying to meet as many people as possible, I’ve found it more valuable to build genuine, lasting relationships over time.
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the importance of seeking mentors who not only have experience and wisdom but who also share strong Christian values and lead with integrity. I believe it’s important to pray for God’s direction when choosing the people you allow to influence your life and your decisions. A mentor’s character is just as important as their knowledge.
My advice is to ask questions, listen more than you talk, and never stop learning. Some of the best guidance I’ve received has come from business owners, healthcare professionals, and other leaders who were willing to share both their successes and their mistakes.
I’ve also learned that networking doesn’t have to mean being the loudest person in the room or attending every event. Being authentic, following through on your commitments, treating people with kindness and respect, and letting your actions reflect your faith will naturally build meaningful relationships over time.
For me, the most valuable connections have been built on trust, shared values, and a desire to honor God in both business and life. Those are the relationships that have had the greatest impact on me, and they’re the kind of mentors I encourage others to seek.
One of the greatest blessings in both my personal life and my career has been the influence of my parents. Their love, wisdom, and unwavering support have played an invaluable role in shaping both my husband, Brett, and me. They have been examples of hard work, integrity, faith, and perseverance, and those values have become the foundation of our family and our business. Their guidance has helped us navigate challenges, celebrate successes , and stay focused on what truly matters. We are incredibly grateful for the encouragement they continue to provide, and the example they have set. Their impact on our lives is woven into the culture of Boger’s Shoes as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bogersshoes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bogersshoes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BogersShoes/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-boger-39252725b/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJnjMf_lx-H_skRHBXy3RWA
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bogers-shoes-orange-park-2
