Teresa Joerger
KindlySteps – MICRO Spring 2025
Published November 12, 2025
As part of our ‘Meet Our Founders’ series today, we introduce Teresa Joerger, Founder of KindlySteps based in Cary, NC. KindlySteps creates sustainable, flexible barefoot shoes for kids that support natural foot development, comfort, and movement – designed with parents’ needs and children’s growth in mind.
Q: What problem are you trying to solve and what influenced you to start your company?
A: I’m solving the problem of poorly designed kids’ shoes that hinder natural foot development. As a parent, I struggled to find shoes that truly support growing feet – flexible, healthy, and sustainable. Also, it was extremely difficult for me to keep up with the rapid growth of their shoes. That personal frustration inspired me to start this company.
Q: What are you most excited about right now? What keeps you up at night?
A: To make a true impact and create something novel that currently doesn’t exist in the market while ensuring it is manufacturable and scalable.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about starting your own company?
A: Being surrounded by so many bright people, learning how generous people are when they buy into your mission and vision, and learning new skills every single day!
Q: What other passions do you have besides your business?
A: Coaching & people development
While visiting Cary, Teresa recommends:
- Eat kebab at the Local Turkish Bosporus restaurant or sushi at MSushi at Fenton! Also, visit the downtown Cary park.
Support KindlySteps and Teresa by:
- If you are a parent – reach out to provide feedback on our concept and share your honest opinion about your own experiences related to purchasing kids’ shoes.