Podcasts about outdoor industry

Pennsylvania's outdoor industry is stepping into the spotlight. In this episode, we're joined by three leaders at the forefront of that movement: Marci Mowery, President of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation; Lutricia Eberly, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Association; and Silas Chamberlain, Executive Director of the Outdoor Business Alliance of Pennsylvania.Together, they discuss the state's first-ever Outdoor Economy Summit & Industry Expo, held April 26–28 at Tussey Mountain, and what it signals for the future of outdoor recreation across the Commonwealth.We also talk with Lisa Lawson, President and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, about the latest 2026 KIDS COUNT® Data Book and what it reveals about the state of child well-being in America.Finally, Summer means longer days, warmer temperatures, and for many households, higher energy bills. Air conditioners are working overtime, appliances are running more frequently, and families are spending more time at home. Now, the good news is that a small change can make a big difference when it comes to saving energy and reducing costs. Joining us today is Daniel McCunney, communication senior manager for the East Region at NRG Energy. We're going to talk about practical ways homeowners and renters can stay comfortable this summer without breaking the bank.

On this episode, I sit down with LA based outdoor adventurer, award-winning writer/editor, and Basecamp Outdoor founder/CEO Ali Carr at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Ali takes me through her Southern California outdoor roots - skiing Big Bear, camping, backpacking - then how a year in New York City led her to Outside Magazine and a mountain-filled life in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She breaks down how Basecamp Outdoor is an inclusive digital community connecting outdoor brands with industry curious job seekers through its Facebook group, newsletter, events, office hours and brand interviews, the Career Collective, and the Base Camp Match job board, plus what she's seeing in hiring and why intentional networking beats “spray-and-pray” applications. Ali also shares standout adventures (Grand Teton, Smith Rock, Patagonia), local gems (Red Rock/Topanga, Chantry Flats/Sturtevant Falls, Cedar Grove, Leo Carrillo tide pools), her Outside story on her father's disappearance at sea, surviving cancer in 2023, and her new birth doula project, Wild Grace.Stay Updated with Ali Carr, Basecamp Outdoor, and Wild Grace on IG: https://www.instagram.com/chasingalicarrhttps://www.instagram.com/basecampoutdoorjobshttps://www.instagram.com/lovewildgraceSign up for Basecamp Outdoor Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/4kskrukfJoin Basecamp FB Group: https://tinyurl.com/4whchwyeLearn more about Basecamp Outdoor on https://www.wearetheoutdoorindustry.com/Learn more about Wild Grace on https://www.lovewildgrace.com/Follow Just Trek on https://instagram.com/just.trekShop Just Trek merch on ⁠⁠https://www.justtrek.net/shop⁠⁠Become a Just Trek Patron member on https://www.patreon.com/justtrekListen to more podcast episodes on ⁠⁠https://www.justtrek.net⁠⁠Want to send me a message? Email me at ⁠⁠justtrekofficial@gmail.com⁠⁠ or DM on Instagram @just.trek

For such a small state, Connecticut is a powerhouse of outdoor recreation, fisheries, and conservation success stories that could serve as a model for the entire country. In this special episode, Tony is joined by Mason Trumbull, Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and Jeff Shaw, Director of the Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences. Together, they reveal how Connecticut's innovative approach is turning ecological health into vibrant economic growth, demonstrating that sustainable fisheries and accessible outdoor spaces are the ultimate win-win.

Michael Lee sits down with Jordan Summit from Buck Commander to talk about 20 years in the outdoor industry, the lessons learned while in the woods, and the stories behind the hunt. They also settle one of the biggest questions in camp: who is the best hunter in the Buck Commander crew?

Trail cameras have come a long way from checking SD cards on your laptop. Today, hunters can receive real-time images from the woods, track deer movement from anywhere, and make decisions based on more information than ever before. In this episode, Sam sits down with Gregg Farrell - Vice President of Brand & Marketing at Tactacam. Gregg shares the story behind one of the most recognized brands in the hunting industry, how Tactacam grew from action cameras to a leader in cellular scouting, and what goes into developing products that hunters rely on every season. We also dive into the impact technology is having on modern hunting, how REVEAL has changed the way hunters scout and manage properties, the challenges of building a trusted outdoor brand, Tactacam's new Habitat IQ app and what the future may hold for trail cameras and hunting tech. Whether you're a die-hard trail camera addict, a tech-minded hunter, or just curious about where the hunting industry is headed, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Fall Obsession Podcast is sponsored by:Hoot Camo Company (https://hootcamo.com/) - use code "fallobsession15" to save with HootBear River Archery (https://www.bearriverarchery.com/) - use code "fallobsession" when shopping online with Bear RiverTactacam Reveal Cameras (https://www.tactacam.com/)The Outdoor Call Radio App (https://www.theoutdoorcallradio.com/)

Dave Lane dropped out of high school at 15 to pursue his obsession with climbing and spent the next decade sewing his own climbing gear in his basement. That obsession became Rock Solid, then Arc'teryx, one of the most globally recognized brands on the planet. But as Dave tells it, none of it was planned. It was a mix of luck, timing, the right people showing up at the right moment, and a dedication to making the best products possible. In this conversation, Dave traces the full arc: the borrowed sewing machines, the kitchen table chalk bags, the partnership with Jeremy Guard, the accidental rebrand, seven years without a holiday, and ultimately walking away from the company he founded.Episode HighlightsThe "pebble in the pond" strategy: nail one product, build distribution, then expand one product at a timeHow a failed climbing gym accidentally formed the partnership between Dave and his co-founderThe crisis that led to Arc'teryx getting its name, and how the logo came to beThe story of how one order doubled their revenueThe importance of design and brand when building a companyWhy naivete is an asset when building a companyLinksApple in China (book)Register for the KORE SummitThe KORE Podcast is a production of the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. Learn more about KORE and the podcast: https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast  #koreoutdoors #craftgearfromhere

For this episode we are joined by Eric Clark from the Okayest Hunter crew!  Eric has been a part of building an outdoor brand based on overcoming stereotypes, making it "okay" to hunt the way you want to hunt and having a healthy stewardship over our wildlife and habitats.  Our conversation covers a lot of ground to include social media misconceptions about hunting, public land hunting, conservation, the overall popularity of hunting, some of Eric's hunting experiences that have made an impact on him and more!  Eric and Okayest Hunter believe that hunts are not measured in inches or mounts, but rather experiences and memories!Fall Obsession Podcast is sponsored by:Hoot Camo Company (https://hootcamo.com/) - use code "fallobsession15" to save with HootBear River Archery (https://www.bearriverarchery.com/) - use code "fallobsession" when shopping online with Bear RiverTactacam Reveal Cameras (https://www.tactacam.com/)The Outdoor Call Radio App (https://www.theoutdoorcallradio.com/)

Jensen Cipriano Brehm is the co-founder of Ombraz Sunglasses — the armless, cord-based eyewear brand that started with a broken pair on a camel safari in India and turned into one of the more distinctive product stories in the outdoor industry. In this conversation, Jensen walks through the founding journey, how Ombraz found their first customers in the ultralight backpacking and bikepacking worlds, their approach to building in-house content and media, raising a small round of funding while retaining equity, and how he and co-founder Nikolai run the whole operation remotely.TopicsOrigin story: broken sunglasses on a camel safari in India, four years of wearing a MacGyver'd pair, then building the companyFinding initial traction in ultralight backpacking and then exploding into bikepackingKeeping all content creation in-house — why agencies produce soulless, interchangeable outdoor contentRaising a Series A in 2020 — retaining equity while gaining runway for inventory and hiringDelegating early: 3PL, customer service, and letting go of egoOmbraz's 9 core brand pillars as a decision-making filterCo-founder dynamics with Nikolai — complementary skill sets, business coaching, and the Positive Intelligence frameworkRunning the business fully remote via Slack and monday.comDefining success as low stress, staying creative, and having funLinksOmbraz websiteSarah Swallow on InstagramRonnie Romance on InstagramGOSO CookwarePositive Intelligence by Shirzad ChamineFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Guest BioKeren Mikva is the Director of Alpengirl, an outdoor adventure program dedicated to empowering young women through immersive experiences in nature. Originally from Chicago, Keren discovered her love for the outdoors during summers spent at sleepaway camp in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. After earning a B.A. in Political Science from Stanford University, she realized her path lay far beyond the world of politics. She booked a one-way ticket to New Zealand, setting off on a journey that ultimately led her into a career in outdoor guiding.Over the past decade, Keren has built a diverse resume leading whitewater rafting expeditions, hiking and biking tours, and multi-adventure trips around the globe. She has guided on the Snake River in Wyoming and the Rio Grande in New Mexico, led cycling adventures through Croatia and New Zealand, and coordinated trips across Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Now based in Bozeman, Montana, she continues to explore the Mountain West while shaping meaningful outdoor experiences for the next generation.With a Master's Degree in Sustainability in the Outdoor Industry from the University of Colorado Boulder, Keren brings both passion and purpose to her leadership at Alpengirl. She is deeply committed to mentorship, environmental stewardship, and creating supportive spaces where girls can build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.Show SummaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Keren about her journey from suburban Chicago to directing one of the country's most inspiring outdoor programs for girls. She shares how early camp experiences shaped her love of adventure and how years of guiding around the world prepared her to lead and mentor young women in the outdoors.The conversation dives into what makes Alpengirl unique — from skill-building backcountry trips to thoughtfully designed mother-daughter adventures that strengthen family bonds. Keren explains how the program focuses on empowerment rather than competition, creating a supportive environment where girls can challenge themselves, learn practical outdoor skills, and discover their own strength.Jason and Keren also discuss the realities of guiding, the importance of communication with families, and why outdoor education plays such a critical role in personal growth. At its core, Alpengirl is about building confidence, community, and connection — all through the transformative power of adventure.Key Takeaways✓ Alpengirl creates outdoor experiences designed specifically to build confidence in young women.✓ Early exposure to adventure can shape lifelong passions and career paths.✓ Mother-daughter trips provide meaningful opportunities for connection outside everyday routines.✓ Skilled, compassionate guides are essential to fostering a positive camp culture.✓ Learning practical outdoor skills helps girls develop independence and resilience.✓ Group adventure travel comes with challenges that ultimately strengthen teamwork and leadership.✓ Clear communication with parents supports camper success and trust.✓ Outdoor programs can be empowering without being wilderness therapy.✓ A supportive, fun environment makes the outdoors more accessible to all experience levels.✓ Adventure travel can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth at any age. Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Matt and Mattie Sims are the co-founders of Courier Socks, a performance sock brand built for the Renaissance athlete — the person who isn't limited to just one sport. In this episode, we get into how a snapped achilles and a $10 sock sparked a product thesis, how five co-founders from world-class brands assembled into something that felt inevitable, and what it really looks like to build a bootstrapped brand without quitting your day job, without outside funding, and with a toddler in the mix.Topics covered:Building with five co-founders — why more wasn't messier, it was essentialThe Renaissance athlete — Courier's positioning and who they're actually building forThe sock category opportunity — why performance socks have been left behind relative to footwearBootstrapped growth and marketing — what's worked, what hasn't, and the myth of the breakthrough momentLessons from Lululemon — what they carried out and what they left behindLinks:Get 15% off your Courier Socks order by using this link. Or use code KORE15 at checkoutCourier's websiteCourier on InstagramBDBC Public RelationsThe Running Event / Switchback tradeshowTiny Experiments - book by Anne-Laure Le CunffFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

What if the most sustainable outdoor product… is one that you never buy in the first place?The outdoor industry has spent years talking about circularity—repair programs, resale platforms, and recycling initiatives designed to keep gear out of landfills. But there's one idea that rarely makes it into the conversation: renting.In episode 219 of the Outdoor Minimalist podcast, I'm joined by returning guest Reet Singh, co-founder of TripOutside, to explore a question that could reshape how outdoor gear is designed, sold, and used: Is renting the missing link in a truly circular outdoor economy?Reet argues that many of the products we buy—skis, kayaks, mountain bikes, even backpacks—are used only a fraction of their lifespan before spending most of their time sitting in garages or closets. What if brands made renting those products just as easy as buying them? And what if that shift could reduce waste and lower costs for consumers, all while still being profitable for companies?Reet Singh is the co-founder of TripOutside, a platform that helps people discover and book human-powered outdoor adventures through local outfitters. When he's not building tools to help more people get outside, you can usually find him mountain biking, scrambling peaks, snowboarding, or introducing someone new to their first outdoor adventure.Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theoutdoorminimalistBuy Me a Coffee: ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/outdoorminimalist⁠⁠⁠Listener Survey: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/jd8UCN2LL3AQst976⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠------------------Trip OutsideWebsite: https://tripoutside.com/Email: stoke@tripoutside.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trip.outside/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tripoutsideYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGv2CO1r2lfMLPmVu29wt-QLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themanreet/

Sometimes it's not one big moment that shapes us, but a series of experiences that quietly stay, like traveling far from home at a young age, listening to stories passed down at the kitchen table, beginning to understand that where we come from carries more meaning over time.In this episode, I'm joined by Yoon Kim, a journalist, storyteller, and event producer whose work is grounded in curiosity and connection. His path has taken him across cultures and continents, but what stands out most is how he listens for the nuance, the history, and the humanity inside every story.We talk about his early travels with his father to places that felt both distant and eye-opening, and how those experiences shaped not just his worldview, but the kinds of questions he asks today in his journalism. There's a depth to the way Yoon approaches storytelling, a sense that the real story is often just beneath the surface.At the center of our conversation are his grandparents and their work with the White Lamb textile factory, where fleeced cotton was first commercialized in the 50's. What begins as a story about innovation unfolds into a reflection on resilience, creativity, and the quiet influence of a life lived with purpose.Yoon also leads the Outdoor Media Summit, a gathering that brings together journalists, creators, and brands in the outdoor industry. We explore how his work in the industry continues to evolve, and why creating space for meaningful storytelling feels more important than ever.This is a conversation about paying attention to the stories that shape us, and recognizing their value while we're still close enough to hold onto them.Only on Speaking of Travel! Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler. 

Chris Schabow didn't plan to run a manufacturing company — he was a nonprofit fundraiser with a sewing machine from Goodwill and a side hustle making backpacking gear. A chance conversation revealed that Enlightened Equipment, the brand he'd been reverse-engineering for years, was operating out of a hole-in-the-wall shop in his own town. What followed was a cold letter, a ghosted coffee meeting, and a leap of faith that cost him his salary, his benefits, and almost his financial stability. Nine years later, he's CEO. This is the story of how you build your way to the top — one baffle at a time.Highlights from the episodeHow a nonprofit fundraiser with a $18 Goodwill sewing machine stumbled into a career at the brand he'd been reverse-engineering from the internetFrom leaf blowers in the attic to commercial stuffing machines: how Enlightened Equipment rebuilt its production floor around technology instead of headcountWhy going overseas was the only math that worked — and how the brand navigated the ultralight community's backlashThe "stuff on demand" shell model that saved the company during COVID and became the foundation of how they operate todayWhat it actually looks like to lead a team you once punched a clock alongside — and why starting at the bottom made Chris a better CEO than any outside hire could have beenLinks Enlightened EquipmentPrairie Dog ShovelsE Clean (down restoration service)Garage Grown GearRipstop by the RollThru-HikerBackpacking LightFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia. 

How do you actually build a career around your passion—without selling out or chasing clicks? In this video, I break down the 5 principles that helped me go from business consultant to full-time hunting content creator. Whether your passion is hunting, photography, fitness, or anything else—this is the blueprint. We're talking about real success. Not shortcuts. Not overnight hacks. Just the systems, mindset, and discipline that work—if you're willing to play long-term games.

What if reconnecting to nature and yourself is the key to building a more meaningful, liberated life? Filmmaker, athlete, and cultural strategist Dani Reyes-Acosta joins Kara Duffy to explore what it means to come back to our bodies, our communities, and the land in a world that rewards disconnection and burnout. Together they dive into redefining the outdoors beyond patriarchal narratives, the power of ritual and slowing down, and how reclaiming the feminine can reshape leadership, creativity, and collective change. Dani shares how storytelling, community, and conscious connection can help us move from extraction and survival into reciprocity, intuition, and a more expansive way of living. The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. SUPPORT OUR GUEST: INSTA: @notlostjustdiscovering WEBSITE: https://notlostjustdiscovering.com/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danireyesacosta/ 00:00 – Introduction to Dani Reyes-Acosta 02:30 – Language, Creativity & Brain Expansion 05:00 – Dani's Career Path & Purpose 08:30 – Power, Imperialism & The Commons 12:00 – Economic Inequality & Societal Shifts 15:00 – Finding Hope in a Chaotic World 18:00 – The Power of Storytelling & Film 22:00 – Women, Relationships & Support Systems 26:00 – Redefining Fulfillment & Balance 28:30 – The Outdoor Industry & Patriarchal Narratives 32:00 – Consumerism & Accessibility in Nature 35:00 – Public Lands, Capitalism & Access 39:00 – Reclaiming the Feminine 41:00 – Rituals for Healing & Sustainability 45:00 – Community, Connection & Daily Practice 47:00 – Trauma, Resilience & Embodiment 48:30 – How to Work With Dani 51:00 – Leadership, Media & The Future 53:00 – Final Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonathan Audet and his two co-founders set out to build better skis. What they built instead may change entire industries. In this episode, Jonathan shares the story behind Ferreol Skis — a Quebec-based brand combining sustainability, in-house engineering, and a fierce love of skiing into one of Canada's fastest-growing ski companies. We also dig into Ferreol Technologies and the aluminum alloy they developed that the industry is calling the strongest in the world. From backyard experiments to Canadian military contracts to the French market, this is a masterclass in founder obsession and engineering-driven brand building.A few of the topics covered in this episode:From backyard experiments to the largest Canadian ski brandBuilding a sustainability-first ski company without sacrificing performanceThe world's strongest aluminum — developed for skis, destined for spaceGrowing internationally: How to use government resources to enter new marketsHiring intrapreneurs and the founder's guide to staying coachableLinksFerreol SkisWatch Jonathan & his co-founders' appearance on Dragon's DenFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

We sit down with Donny Espey from Frogg Toggs to talk careers in the outdoor industry and why the best marketing usually looks like real people having real fun. We also get honest about content strategy, TikTok trends, and what actually builds long-term trust for a brand. • Donny's career path through fishing brands and into Frogg Toggs marketing • Resume builders that give you an edge like clubs retail work and trade shows • Networking in a tight outdoor industry and why shaking hands still matters • Using social media as a portfolio and a hiring signal • Building Frogg Toggs content around fun without losing the product message • Creating high-volume content and staying relevant without over-scheduling • Why phone clips often beat polished ads and how hooks affect watch time • TikTok Shop basics what price points move and how creator waves happen • Brand partnerships built on follow-through overdelivering and consistency DM One Hell of Life podcast on Instagram or TikTok to enter the monthly listener drawingCall or text 850-251-8650 or visit www.floridaducks.com to book your trip, Williamson OutfittersUse code ONEHELLOFALIFEOUTDOORS for 15 percent off your order @ www.froggtoggs.comDirty Duck Coffee: use code onehellofalife15 for 15% offCall Kade at Delta Thunder Outfitters at 870-926-7944 for snow goose datesFollow us on instagram! https://www.instagram.com/onehellofalifepodcast/?hl=en

On this episode, Joe and Ira are joined by good buddy Jim Ronquest of Drake Waterfowl. Throughout the course of this talk, the fellas talk about duck calling, duck calling strategy, farm management, and turkey hunting. Along the way, they also dive into what's new in the outdoor industry, what's working, and who's innovating. This is a well-rounded conversation with a bunch of variety that keeps it interesting. 

Recently, two long-standing outdoor industry businesses, Alpenglow Expeditions and Thomson Bike Tours, were acquired by Milky Way Park. But while acquisitions are nothing new to the outdoor industry, the way it came together (and continues to develop) is worth a closer look. On this episode, iconic athlete and Alpenglow founder Adrian Ballinger joins Milky Way Park's founder Matthew Lloyd-Thomas to share the story. Show Notes: Adrian Ballinger: https://www.instagram.com/adrianballinger/ Alpenglow Expeditions: https://alpenglowexpeditions.com/ Matthew Lloyd-Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lloyd-thomas-541a9614/ Milky Way Park: https://www.milkywaypark.com/ Chernin Group: https://tcg.co/ Unrivaled Sports: https://www.unrivaledsports.com/ Emily Harrington: https://www.instagram.com/emilyaharrington/ Thomson Bike Tours: https://www.thomsonbiketours.com/ Aiden Charles (Coach): https://www.charlescoaching.com/coaches/ The Duffel Shuffle Podcast: https://www.duffelshufflepodcast.com/ DangerStik: https://www.youtube.com/@DangerStikTV Mt Everest Ski Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjZvFY6__qw Centium AI: https://www.centium.ai/ BPC - Brand, Product, Content Luft Bike Shop: https://luftlosangeles.com/ Zipp 404 Wheels: https://www.sram.com/en/zipp/models/wh-404-ftld-b1 Keith McNally "I Regret Everything" (Book): https://amzn.to/40BXhBO Derek Thompson - Fatherhood: https://www.derekthompson.org/p/three-reasons-to-be-a-parent Lenz Heated Socks: https://lenzproducts.com/ Broken Arrow Skyrace: https://www.brokenarrowskyrace.com/ Tangle Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/tangle/id1538788132 Freehub Magazine: https://freehub.com/ John Mackey on David Senra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8zqsiePKsg Jason Fried on David Senra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdDCtMA1gSw Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media  Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media  Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media  Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia

Today on Outdoor Unfiltered, Eoin Comerford breaks down the news that REI is cutting pay and benefits for employees as the co-op struggles to return to profitability. After four straight years of losses REI is facing some tough financial realities — and payroll is squarely in the spotlight. Eoin digs into what's driving the decision, why payroll costs at REI are significantly higher than other retailers, and why a healthy REI still matters to the broader outdoor industry.Also in this episode:Vail Resorts' historically bad winter seasonWhy ski resorts are still making money despite poor snowEoin is then joined by Rock Founder and Outdoor Industry veteran, Colin True, to discuss the outdoor recreation economy's “$1.3 trillion” headline number (and why it's misleading) as well as the new brand campaigns from The North Face and Merrell.Outdoor Unfiltered looks past the PR spin to explore what's really happening in the outdoor industry and why it matters.Connect with Eoin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email the show: outdoorunfilteredpod@gmail.com

The Future Of Investing In The Outdoor Industry Mel Strong made a meaningful impression during her first appearance on the podcast, and we've got her back on the podcast again to demystify how brands can raise capital, how to speak to boards and VCs, and to answer the all-important question...should we have our own venture fund? Show Notes: Mel Strong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-strong/ Mel's First Second Nature Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2V0nDHyQRw Next Ventures: https://www.nextventures.com/ TRE: https://www.therunningevent.com/ Nike ACG: http://nikeacg.com/ Oura: https://ouraring.com/ Trial Library: https://www.triallibrary.com/ Eternal: https://eternal.co/ Trucks (VC): https://www.trucks.vc/ Next Ventures Substack: https://nextventures.substack.com/ Felix Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felixkim93/ Ramble Campgrounds: https://ramble.camp/ BPC - Brand, Product, Content: Ramble Campground: https://ramble.camp/ Path Projects - Basis Tee: https://pathprojects.com/products/basis-tee The Courage To Be Disliked (Book): https://amzn.to/471R716 Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia

Uplifting Talent In The Outdoor Industry Rachael Burnside saw an opportunity to build a stronger community of women in the bike industry by connecting experienced mentors with mentees, which would help build and retain top talent. The fifth round of the Uplift mentorship program is now underway, and in our conversation, Rachael breaks down the playbook of what it took to build this program - and how any other industry can adapt and benefit from making these connections. Show Notes: Rachael Burnside: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-burnside-1bb0b937/ Uplift: https://www.instagram.com/uplift.mentoring.networking/ Shift Active Media: https://www.shiftactivemedia.com/ Rouleur: https://www.rouleur.cc/ Rouleur Live: https://www.rouleur.cc/en-us/pages/rouleur-live Rapha: https://www.rapha.cc/ Alexa Cunningham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexa-cunningham-41045433/ Kate Veronneau on Second Nature: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPlJTBv6ABo Stacy Perlis (CFO at Wahoo): https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-perlis-cpa/ BPC - Brand, Product, Content: Pure Sport: https://puresport.co/en-us Upway: https://upway.co/ Adweek Article - Outside Interactive: https://www.adweek.com/media/outside-interactive-profit-transformation/ Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media  Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media  Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media  Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia

Dario Phillips, co-founder of Slowtide, built the surf industry's most recognizable beach towel brands by betting on a single product category and surrounding it with authentic art, meaningful collaborations, and a clear brand identity. In this conversation, Dario traces the full founder arc — from marketing director at Quiksilver to rolling the dice on 800 towels in a Venice Beach garage. He talks about the realities of licensing deals, co-founding remotely across two islands, and why a decade of building has taught him to trust his team's instincts over outside hires. He also shares how Slowtide is expanding beyond towels into outerwear and new product categories, while staying grounded in the values that started it all.A few of the topics from the conversation:Leaving Corporate Board Sports to Co-Found SlowtideThe Case for Category-Specific BrandsLicensing as a Growth StrategyCo-Founding Across Time Zones and IslandsFounder Confidence Over Outside HiresSustainable Growth and Giving BackLinks:SlowtideSlowtide's Custom ProductsSlowtide x New Balance Connect with Christian on LinkedInThe KORE Podcast is a production of the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. Learn more about KORE and the podcast: https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

The outdoor industry is under pressure — tariffs, supply‑chain swings, shifting consumer behavior, and a retail landscape that's harder than ever to navigate. In this episode, Marcus Sorensen, CEO of Caddis Sports, breaks down the real challenges outdoor brands are facing and the strategies that actually work in today's market.

Tom with Stuck N The Rut and Taylor with 360 Sportsman have the conversation that everyone is having, Are Influencers ruining the hunting industry/ Outdoor industry? What's your thoughts on this matter? For anyone who is interested in checking out the masterclasses, click herehttps://360sportsman.org/stuckntherut

This is it; the final episode of The Rock Fight.In one last, wide-ranging conversation, Colin True, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave take a final look at the outdoor industry they've spent three years questioning, criticizing, and celebrating. From the state of outdoor media and the resilience of specialty retail to brand sameness, authenticity, and the growing influence of algorithms and AI, this episode serves as a candid closing argument for why curiosity and critical thinking still matter.No headlines. No hot takes. Just one last honest conversation before the final stone is thrown.

David Kenworthy (MMGY Origin) and Michael Ruckert (Centium AI) break down what outdoor industry founders and marketers need to know about AI visibility. Learn how AI models train on internet content, why there's often a gap between how brands see themselves and how AI describes them, and what AEO (AI Engine Optimization) means for your business. From understanding tokenization to exploring vibe coding opportunities for startups, this conversation delivers actionable insights on positioning your brand in the AI era. Episode HighlightsHow AI Models Train: Understanding tokenization, word associations, and how AI predicts brand recommendations by indexing internet content to form probability-based responsesThe Brand Perception Gap: Why there's often a disconnect between how outdoor brands market themselves and how AI actually describes them to consumersCentium AI Platform & AEO Strategy: What AI Engine Optimization means, how to measure brand visibility across multiple LLMs, and where AI sources content about your productsLinksCentium.aiMMGY OriginSuperhuman.ai NewlsetterConnect with David on LinkedInConnect with Michael on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Today on The Rock Fight Colin, Eoin Comerford and Producer Dave talk about some recent headlines to come out of the outdoor industry including recent comments made by some of the industry's more notable CEO's.For the Lightning Round they do quick hits on J Crew, JD Sports, and OR's new athlete team. Then they unpack the launch of Stoke Footwear, a running-inspired shoe brand built for “real American men” that's already landed in hundreds of retail doors. Is this smart retail validation, or another case of active heritage being repackaged for a different audience?Lastly for The Parting Shot, Colin takes aim at the promotion of Alex Honnold's next big thing.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Steve Holmberg joins the podcast for our annual predictions podcast. Based on his insights from the industry, he shares a bit of where we've been - as well as where he thinks we're headed in the year ahead. Steve takes us through his analysis on participation, brands, marketing, product, marketplace, retail and external. Show Notes: Steve Holmberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenholmberg/ Insight Accelerator: https://www.stephenholmberg.com/ Raide: https://raideresearch.com/ Half Days: https://www.halfdays.com/ Mount to Coast: https://mounttocoast.com/ Norda: https://nordarun.com/ Matt Trappe: https://substack.com/home/post/p-180904392 Peter Abraham: https://peterabraham.medium.com/the-2025-bicycle-trend-report-1d262a7b0351 Nike ACG: https://www.nike.com/acg Terignota: https://terignota.com/ Grand Slam Bankruptcy: https://www.espn.com/olympics/trackandfield/story/_/id/47286330/grand-slam-track-files-bankruptcy-johnson-vows-press-on BPC - Brand, Product, Content: Field Mag: https://www.fieldmag.com/ Columbia x Star Wars: https://www.columbia.com/starwars/ Kitworks (Aaron's Ambassador Page!): https://alnk.to/hsyF2FO Snow Peak: https://www.snowpeak.com/ Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia

Tina Thompson grew Seniq's Instagram following from 10K to 42K in just one year - including 14K new followers in 30 days. In this conversation, she breaks down the exact playbook that transformed Instagram from a content channel into a revenue generator. Tina shares how she reduced her time commitment from 20 hours to just 5 hours per week while accelerating growth, the specific content strategies that unlocked hockey stick growth during the launch of their ski apparel, and how she uses trial reels and AB testing to optimize performance. This is the tactical Instagram masterclass every outdoor brand founder needs.Show HighlightsThis episode is a deeper-dive into the tactics that Tina laid out in her Substack post about Seniq's Instagram strategy. Here are the main topics Tina lays out in her post that we dive into in this episode:Be yourselfMost strategy is uselessConsistency is everythingDon't reinvent the wheelFun is keyUnlock & RepeatPinning worksGiveaways are a mustShow the productLo-fi > Hi-resThe best launches have a formulaA/B testing reels drives quick resultsLinks Tina's SubstackSeniq on InstagramTina on InstagramMallory Ottariano / Youer on InstagramBehind The Diary YouTube channelTiny Experiments bookThe KORE Podcast is a production of the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. Learn more about KORE and the podcast: https://koreoutdoors.org/podcastThe KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of our podcast, featuring an inspiring conversation with Peyton Smith, the Founder and CEO of Black Kanyon, a private equity firm based in South Dakota. Peyton's journey from farm life to leading a successful business is packed with valuable lessons and insights that you won't want to miss. Here are some of the key takeaways from our chat:

This week Dr. Rachel Gross drops in to explain the rise of outdoor goods manufacturers and how they sold us on going outside.About our guest:Rachel Gross is an environmental, cultural, and public historian specializing in the history of the modern U.S. Her research and teaching interests center on business, consumer culture, and gender, and she is especially interested in what seemingly ordinary consumer goods tell us about identity and power. She teaches courses on capitalism, commodities, women and gender, and public history.

Thor Tingey, CEO of Alpacka Raft, discusses what it takes to establish a new category in the outdoor industry and to build an independent, family-owned company. Twenty-five years after pioneering modern packrafting, Thor shares hard-won wisdom about balancing innovation with customer feedback, navigating explosive COVID-era growth, and why maintaining in-house production is critical to his long-term strategy. Thor explains how thoughtful, sustained growth and deep customer relationships define market leadership in the outdoor industry.Episode HighlightsDomestic manufacturing philosophy: Why in-house USA production preserves critical manufacturing knowledge that offshore production erodes.Establishing a new sport: The unique challenges and responsibilities of pioneering packrafting as a recreational activity and building a market category from scratch over 25 years.Customer-driven success metrics: Defining business achievement through authentic superfan stories rather than revenue numbers—when customers evangelize your brand unprompted, you've wonInnovation vs. feedback balance: Weighing when to push design boundaries versus listening to what experienced customers actually need in the fieldMarket leadership responsibility: Grappling with the ethical dimensions of being the category creator—from social media restraint to thoughtful product positioningLinks:KORE OutdoorsAlpacka RaftsSheri - a documentary about Thor's mom who was Alpacka's original founder & CEOAbundance - book Thor mentionsFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Today on The Rock Fight, the crew runs a temperature check on the outdoor industry national trade show scene!From fragmentation to event fatigue, Colin, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave break down whether outdoor still needs a single “north star” gathering; and who should be responsible for making it happen.But first they hit a rapid-fire six-pack of industry stories, including:ANTA's push into the U.S. marketArc'teryx living between performance and luxuryL.L. Bean's retail expansion strategyWhy outdoor still plays it safe with colorTNF x Skims (you know, for kids!)Kappa's Olympic kits Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Sam Digiambattista was shopping for a ski jacket when he discovered that Gore-Tex—the gold standard in outdoor fabrics for 50 years—is made with PFAS, harmful forever chemicals. Rather than accepting the status quo, the then-teenager decided to do something about it. In the two years since, Sam has developed his own PFAS-free waterproof breathable fabric and launched Indersity, a technical outerwear brand committed to environmental responsibility without sacrificing performance. At just 19 years old, Sam demonstrates remarkable conviction and values-driven leadership that makes you believe sustainable innovation is possible in the outdoor industry.Topics Covered:Why this teenager rejected the fabric standardFrom zero knowledge to proprietary fabric in two yearsSpeed wins: Building a technical brand without waiting for permissionTaking on investors to capitalize on an opportunityGetting athletes on board earlyStaying hands-on while growingLinks:IndersityKORE podcast episode with Alex LauverKORE podcast episode with Casey ShawFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Pete Day of Mosko Moto reveals what it takes to build a premium adventure motorcycle gear brand from the ground up. He explains why product quality is the foundation of everything, how they design for hardcore users who demand maximum utility, and the balance between innovation and accessibility. Pete shares insights on maintaining premium status while staying within reach of working riders, building community through 50+ annual events and multi-day riding experiences, and growing his Instagram to 90K+ followers. The conversation ends with Pete's definition of success and why the interesting path beats the efficient one every time.A few topics from the episode:The product-first philosophy: "Nobody wants to be in your community if your product sucks"Designing for hardcore users: maximizing utility for riders who push gear to its limitsThe danger of detaching into an "ivory tower" of premium pricing and exotic materialsWhy Mosko attends 50+ events annually and hosts multi-day riding and camping experienGrowing a personal Instagram following to 90K+ while staying authentic to the sportLinksMosko MotoPete's Instagram @moskopeteKuiu Purple Cow by Seth GodinDusty Lizard campoutFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave sit down with Amy Beck, President of Obōz Footwear (recorded at GOA Connect in Kansas City), for a wide-ranging, and honest conversation about what's missing in the outdoor industry.Here's the rundown!Hiking vs. Trail Running: Why Obōz believes hiking has never been less appreciated.Innovation Pressure: How the obsession with the next same thing can hold brands back, and what true innovation actually requires.Specialty Retail's Role: Why Obōz waited until 2021 to launch e-commerce and why independent retailers continue to be the heartbeat of the outdoor world.Operating Under KMD Brands: The advantages and challenges of being part of a New Zealand-based outdoor portfolio.The Energy Gap: Amy's case for why the industry needs more personality, more creativity, and more willingness to stand for something.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Mike Blarowski, co-founder of Pinkbike and Shopify expert, joins the KORE Outdoors Podcast to unpack what he calls the Shopify Advantage—how outdoor brands can simplify e-commerce and build businesses that support their lifestyle. From early lessons at Pinkbike to helping founders optimize their online stores, Mike shares practical insights on using Shopify effectively, creating high-converting email flows, and adapting to the future of AI-driven search. This episode is a field guide for makers and entrepreneurs who want to grow online without losing their connection to the outdoors.What “the Shopify Advantage” means for outdoor brandsCommon e-commerce mistakes and how to fix themUsing email automation to convert visitors into loyal customersHow AI is changing SEO and online marketingThe best apps for your Shopify storeLearn more about KORELinks to what was mentioned on this episode:Iceberg Commerce (Mike's E-commerce Agency)Pixel Union ThemesGoogle PageSpeed InsightsGT MetrixSparkLayerKlaviyoCopy That copywriting courseCopy PosseShopify Apps:Locksmith Judge.me GorgiasMyWorksBetterReportsKNO CommerceMatrixifyConnect with Mike on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedIn

For decades, the outdoor industry has celebrated innovation through synthetics—lighter, stronger, and more technical fabrics made from petroleum-based materials. But as we grapple with the environmental costs of producing many synthetic products, is a shift underway? Wool, waxed cotton, hemp, and other natural materials might be making a comeback —not as a nostalgic throwback, but as brands and individuals innovate with them, proving they can be high-performing, sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers. One of the people leading that charge is Patrick Clark, founder of Lucky Sheep and author of the book A Rewilder's Guide to Outdoor Adventure. Patrick has developed a full backpacking kit made almost entirely from natural fibers—with a base weight of just 20 pounds. From lightweight wool sleeping bags to waxed canvas backpacks, his designs challenge the idea that performance has to come at the cost of sustainability.Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theoutdoorminimalistBuy Me a Coffee: ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/outdoorminimalist⁠⁠⁠Listener Survey: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/jd8UCN2LL3AQst976⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠------------------Lucky SheepWebsite: https://www.woolsleepingbag.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckysheepgear/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LuckySheepOutdoorGearFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LuckySheepSleepingBags

This week on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave break down a packed slate of outdoor industry headlines, from financial shakeups to listener drama.On the docket!VF's Up-and-Down Quarter: North Face & Timberland steady the ship while Vans still struggles. HOKA's Plateau: Deckers cools expectations as HOKA's U.S. sales flatten but international growth keeps soaring. Is the bubble finally bursting or just shifting?Marmot's Resurrection: Newell Brands shows signs of life, prompting Producer Dave to upgrade Marmot from “zombie” to “revenant.”2026 Outdoor Trade Show Watch!Outdoor Retailer's “Leadership Village” expands with new names from Cotopaxi, Garage Grown Gear, and Founded Outdoors plus a focus on small and emerging brands.ISPO Moves to Amsterdam: Europe's biggest outdoor trade show changes cities and strategy, raising questions about timing, purpose, and relevance.Lightning Round!Wolverine Named Footwear News Company of the Year (and somehow not Nike).Lululemon x NFL Collab would Chip Wilson have ever approved?Specialized E-bike Lawsuit: The latest in “gear that tries to kill you.”The Parting Shot presented by Garage Grown Gear!A listener calls The Rock Fight “Patagonia's biggest haters.” The crew responds (with vigor) clarifying that critique comes from love, not spite.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Cristina Ashbaugh, co-founder of Yardsale, shares how they reinvented the ski pole by adding magnets and modular design—starting with taped-together prototypes in her San Francisco apartment. With no industry experience, she and co-founder Kelly McGee launched their business unconventionally: through NYC subway ads, cold-calling ski shops as a "student researcher," and a rehearsed Shark Tank pitch that secured an investment from Kendra Scott. Cristina discusses tactical strategies, including DIY PR that landed Fast Company coverage, managing wholesale complexity with customizable products, why they're running their own fulfillment instead of using a 3PL, and expanding beyond ski poles into bags and technical apparel for the "90% of skiers."Learn more about KORE OutdoorsLinksYardsale websiteYardsale's Substack (Behind the scenes of building the brand)See their NYC subway ads & truck adsWatch their Shark Tank episodeSouth Park documentary about their creative process: 6 Days to AirConnect with Cristina on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedIn

The Brief is back! Today on The Rock Fight Colin and Producer Dave break down Mammut's Mountain Wear Rescue campaign.They're joined by Mammut's Chief Marketing Officer Nic Brandenberger, who shares the inside story of how the campaign came together, from the insight that “8 out of 10 jackets never see a mountain” to the decision to embrace humor.Episode Topics:How Mammut's team turned an internal truth into creative goldThe challenges and wins behind Mountain Wear RescueWhy humor in outdoor marketing is so hard to pull offWorking with Katie Burrell and casting for comedyThe evolution of Mammut's brand voice and personalityOutdoor industry tropes that need to dieThe Rock Fight's final score: originality, brand fit, messaging, visuals & strategic clevernessSpoiler: Mammut scores high and gives zero f*cks.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Scott Kaier makes his second appearance on the show today. You can his first vist way back on episode 232 in August 2020. As President of Formidable Media, Scott helps a select group of clients build their brands globally through tailored marketing services—public relations, custom content, paid media, and social support. As Senior VP at Green Threads DPP, Scott also leads efforts around the EU's upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP) legislation, guiding companies through compliance and integration. His specialties include textiles, sustainable materials, performance fabrics, and the outdoor industry. Show Notes You ever have that moment where you realize you've been playing the game backwards? That was me, mid-career, sitting in a glossy outdoor brand office with beautiful gear… that nobody wanted to write about. What Happened: I didn't come from some Madison Avenue ad agency. I started in bike shops — greasy hands, mismatched gear, and an obsession with adventure. I wasn't chasing media hits, I just wanted to be around people who got it. Fast forward a few years, I'm deep into PR for top-tier outdoor brands, working with media, crafting stories, and yet… I'd see some products completely flop in the press while others (less exciting, in my opinion) stole the spotlight. At first, I took it personally. Like, why aren't they seeing the story here? But here's what I learned: the best stories aren't the ones brands tell about themselves — they're the ones that resonate. Principle: Outdoor brands often fall in love with their products, not their audience. They get caught up in their idea of what's newsworthy, forgetting that real stories aren't about features — they're about connection. And connection comes from authenticity, timing, and meeting people where they are. Transition: Most outdoor brands are struggling not because they don't have great gear, but because they're telling stories no one is listening to. The market has changed. What worked in the golden age of trade shows and glossy magazine spreads doesn't fly in today's fragmented media world. And while your product might be sustainable, your message might not be. That's why this week's podcast episode is such a wake-up call for brand leaders trying to stay relevant. Scott Kaier dives deep into what the outdoor industry gets wrong (and right) about media, storytelling, and brand strategy — and what's coming next with EU digital product passports and sustainability compliance. Call to Action: Still wondering why your product isn't getting the attention it deserves? That's the pain. Getting ghosted by media, confused by content trends, feeling like your message gets lost? That's the agitation. Scott's been on both sides — agency and in-house — and he shares the mindset shift that changes everything. That's the solution.

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave return with Outdoor Industry Buy or Sell as they name what's hot (and what's not). Here's the rundown!Rough Q4 on the way? Multiple reports this past week paint a less than rosy picture for the end of the year. (06:44)A new survey names what is trending with teens. Spoiler: it's not Puffin Drinkwear. (12:17)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! Rutabaga changes course, Runnin' and Gunnin' in our National Parks, and On sued for their squeaky shoes. (18:50)Support those who support The Rock Fight! Ripstop By The Roll, Fjallraven, Lems Shoes, and Ibex! (22:47)Outdoor Industry Buy or Sell! Each host brings outdoor brands, trends or products and make the case for why they are either buying or selling. (26:50)Lastly for The Parting Shot presented by Garage Grown Gear, Colin has a note for a recent cycling study. (49:00)Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin is joined by Shawnté Salabert to break down her trip to Title Nine's Pitchfest 2025, where women founders are reshaping the outdoor industry from the ground up.Since 1989, Title Nine and its founder Missy Park have been putting money behind women-led brands; more than $1.7 million in Pitchfest investments and $72 million in total purchasing power. Shawnté attended this year's edition and shares what makes this event different: collaboration over competition, community over ego, and a focus on solving real problems.The conversation covers:How Pitchfest is rewriting the rules of outdoor entrepreneurship.Standout brands from this year's event.Why representation in design and leadership still matters.The growing movement to fund women founders, not just feature them.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Darren Rayner has been shaping how brands tell stories online for more than two decades. As the founder of Magnafire, a Vancouver-based creative agency working with Red Bull, Arc'teryx, and Lululemon, Darren shares how his early days running a snowboard apparel brand gave him a unique lens on content long before “content” was a thing. In this episode, we trace his journey from spray-painting t-shirts and hacking video streams in 2001 to leading a team producing some of the most effective short-form content in the outdoor industry today. Darren breaks down why short videos outperform long ones, how brands can use the “content pyramid” to stretch their budgets, and why founder-led storytelling matters more than ever. It's a practical, inspiring conversation for any entrepreneur who wants to use video strategically without overcomplicating it.Learn more about KORE OutdoorsHighlights from the conversation:Darren's apparel brand and the ahead-of-its-time content strategy that helped them growThe shift from long-form to short-form video and how brands adaptedMagnifier's “content pyramid” framework for efficient content creationFounder-led storytelling and building trust through transparencyBrand vs performance marketing budgets (70/30 approach) and evolving funnelsConnect with Darren on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInLinks to things mentioned in the conversation:MagnafireZendaya x On Running - Zone DreamersSatisfy Running - I Think I Saw You On My Run TodayLiquid Death's YouTube ChannelGucci short film starring Demi Moore & Edward Norton

Today on The Rock Fight, Colin and Producer Dave break down the latest headlines in the outdoor industry with a game of Good News or Bad News. From new products to hilarious marketing campaigns (and one massive brand blunder in the Himalayas), they separate the wins from the fails in a wild week for outdoor brands. On the docket:Retail updates: Sherman Outdoor Sports closes after 103 years, while Sherpers celebrates 90 years and Eau Claire Outdoors gets it going. (04:07)Brand updates: Is Marmot showing signs of life? (07:38)Good News or Bad news?New Shells: Rab launches a PFAS-free Gore-Tex line. (08:36)Collabs gone grocery: Nike x Kirkland shoes hit the internet. (13:04)Athletes & influence: Does Killian Jornet's 14er linkup land the way it once might have? (16:09)Support those who support The Rock Fight! Today's partners: Ibex, Fjallraven, Royal Robbins, Lems, Conatus CounselMarketing done right: Mammut's mockumentary-style campaign hits the landing. (27:08)The big one: Arc'teryx's fireworks fiasco in the Himalayas begs the question: how did this even happen? (33:03)Lightning Round: Salt Life eyewear, Eastern Mountain Sports, and Huffy. (40:41)Parting Shot: The X Games announce a new “league” with betting baked in. (43:15)Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly...

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we're joined by Jeff Oliver, better known on trail and online as IBTAT. In addition to building a large following on YouTube and Instagram, IBTAT will be a familiar voice to long-time Backpacker Radio listeners, as he was part of our first season of Trail Correspondents. We dive into IBTAT's story, including his journey to 12 years of sobriety — going from drinking two fifths of liquor a day to cutting alcohol cold turkey overnight, and the dangerous side effects that followed. We also cover his more than 11,000 miles of trekking over the past seven years, including hikes of the Triple Crown trails, the Scottish National Trail, the C&O Canal Towpath, and Sweden's Kungsleden Trail. Lastly, being a talented photographer and videographer, IBTAT shares expert advice on choosing the right camera and capturing quality photos and video during your hikes. Sassafras, Double Dip and I wrap the show with a call for this year's AT thru-hikers to take the 2025 Appalachian Trail Survey, we opine on what the AT will look like in 2035 (and look back at how it's changed over the past decade), we find the precise point at which a walk becomes a hike, Sass and Katie share how they got started in the Outdoor Industry (providing advice and inspiration for those who want to follow in their tracks), and we do the Triple Crown of cooking tips and hacks. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at gossamergear.com. Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at ombraz.com/discount/backpacker30. [divider] Interview with Jeff “IBTAT” Oliver IBTAT's Youtube IBTAT's Instagram IBTAT's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:06:00 - Reminders: Apply to blog for the Trek, take the 2025 AT Thru-Hiker survey, and listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon! 00:08:05 - Introducing IBTAT 00:11:15 - When did you start partying? 00:12:25 - Discussion about getting sober 00:16:35 - What was your outdoors experience prior to the AT? 00:19:15 - When did you start videography and photography? 00:22:15 - Are there differences in your audience across different mediums? 00:25:00 - At what point did thru-hiking click for you? 00:27:18 - How did you take to the AT community? 00:29:09 - How was hiking the AT with your dog? 00:31:32 - Any standout stories from the AT? 00:33:16 - When did you decide to get on the PCT? 00:34:51 - What's the most common dinner you eat on trail? 00:36:55  How was the PCT in a high snow year? 00:46:45 - Have you seen a culture change on the PCT? 00:49:05 - Tell us about the Art Loeb Trail 00:51:35 - What was your experience on the CDT? 00:55:05 - What was the most emotional moment you've captured on video on trail? 00:57:35 - How has your videography style changed over time? 00:59:25 - Tell us more about the crowds you've seen on the PCT this year 01:00:35 - Tell us about the Scottish National Trail 01:04:17 - What's been your favorite trail to photograph versus hike? 01:07:35 - Walk us through camera lenses for new photographers 01:12:35 - What's in your photography kit? 01:15:25 - Tell us about the C&O Canal Towpath 01:16:52 - Tell us about the Kungsleden Trail 01:21:31 - What's the next international trail on your bucket list? 01:22:22 - How do you like repeating the PCT? 01:23:38 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: What Will the Appalachian Trail Look Like in 2035? by Katie Jackson The Day I finished the Appalachian Trail (ECT 210) by Steve Hoekwater QOTD:  When does a walk become a hike? Advice Thing of the Week Triple Crown of cooking tips / hacks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee. Sign up for the Trek's newsletter Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Go Bills, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson.

Today we're spilling the beans on the new dates - and new location — of Blister Summit 2026. Then we give a quick update on our Winter Buyer's Guide Update, and wrap up with an important challenge to all outdoor brands.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest you'd like us to have on GEAR:30. Or if you'd like to nominate yourself for a ‘Gear Therapy' episode, let us know that, too! You can email us at info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:Register: Blister Summit 2026Discounted Summit Registration for BLISTER+ MembersBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredOrder Our 25/26 Winter Buyer's GuideGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Blister Summit 2026 Announcement (2:59)Winter Buyer's Guide Update (5:47)Challenge to the Outdoor Industry (6:47)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Steve House interviews Peter Metcalf, the legendary climber and founder of Black Diamond Equipment, about his journey from young climber to industry pioneer. Peter shares gripping stories from early ascents, including harrowing ascents, which tested the limits of endurance and leadership. He reflects on how climbing instilled values of trust, humility, and calculated risk that shaped his approach to business. Metcalf also recounts the resurrection of Chouinard Equipment into Black Diamond, a climber-led effort rooted in shared purpose and cultural authenticity. Ultimately, this is a story not just about climbing, but about transformation, resilience, and building something that lasts.If you'd like to check out our special offer for podcast listeners visit: uphillathlete.com/letsgoYou can also write to us at coach@uphillathlete.com