This isn’t your average college hustle. Meet Jacob aka BERNKICKS, a young entrepreneur who turned a passion for sneakers into a multi-million dollar business, all while live-streaming on the Whatnot app. His journey is a testament to hard work, savvy business acumen, and a healthy dose of sneaker obsession. Bern and host Jason Belsky play catch up after a busy month.
The Grind: From Space Jams to Seven Figures
Our story begins around 2013, when a then 10-11 year old BERNKICKS found himself captivated by his older brother’s sneaker hunts. This sparked a fascination that quickly evolved into something more – a keen eye for profit. His first resale? A pair of 2016 Space Jam Jordan 11s. Fast forward to today, and BERNKICKS boasts over 120,000 followers on Whatnot, with over 30,000 items sold and a staggering revenue exceeding $3.1 million in 2024 alone. That’s a far cry from shipping packages from his college dorm room!
Sourcing Secrets and Sneaker Savvy
BERNKICKS’ success isn’t just about luck. He’s built a network of contacts, going beyond retail stores to source rare and highly sought-after kicks. Think Dunks, SB models, Air Max, and Air Force 1s – the cream of the crop. He’s not interested in LeBron James signature shoes; his focus is on the coveted, the collectible, the cool. His collection includes a stunning array of 31 pre-2007 Nike SBs, including legendary pairs like the OG Pigeons and Lucky Sevens – some of which he’s sold for thousands, even tens of thousands of dollars. He even travels across the country, attending sneaker conventions and buying up entire collections (like the 500-pair haul from Idaho!). It’s like “American Pickers,” but for sneakers.
Whatnot: The Live Auction Platform That Launched a Million-Dollar Empire
BERNKICKS discovered Whatnot through an Instagram ad in late 2020/early 2021, initially buying trading cards. He joined as a seller in March 2022 and hasn’t looked back. He credits Whatnot’s live auction format as a key differentiator from other platforms like TikTok Shop. The excitement of the live auction, the thrill of the bidding war, and the unique community aspect are all part of Whatnot’s appeal. He’s sold items for as little as $1 and as much as $20,000 on the platform, showcasing the platform’s diverse range of items and price points. While he’s experienced some losses (like the thousands lost on a pair of Day of the Dead SBs), the overall success speaks for itself.
Lessons Learned and Future Goals
BERNKICKS’ journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He initially handled everything himself, from sourcing to shipping, leading to long hours and logistical hurdles. He’s learned from his mistakes, acknowledging the losses and the need to scale his operation. His plan for the future? Building a team to handle the day-to-day tasks, freeing him up to focus on sourcing and live-streaming. He aims to increase his screen time on Whatnot, maximizing his sales potential.
Key Takeaways:
- •Passion fuels success: BERNKICKS’ love for sneakers drove his entrepreneurial spirit.
- •Networking is key: Building relationships is crucial for sourcing rare items.
- •Embrace the live auction format: Whatnot’s unique platform offers a dynamic and engaging sales experience.
- •Scaling is essential: Even with millions in sales, there’s always room for growth and improvement.
- •Don’t be afraid to take risks: While losses happen, the potential rewards are significant.
BERNKICKS’ story is an inspiring example of how passion, hard work, and a bit of entrepreneurial savvy can lead to incredible success. His journey proves that nothing is truly unachievable if you put your mind to it. So, what are you waiting for? Go chase your dreams! And maybe check out BERNKICKS on Whatnot – you might just find your next grail sneaker.
Gear Used
Cameras: Sony a9i / Sony a1