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Today on the show Colin is joined by Monday regulars Producer Dave and Eoin Comerford (who is suffering from a case of outdoor industry insider overexposure) to preview and make predictions for Switchback Spring!It was about a year ago that The Rock Fight broke the news of a new national outdoor trade show from the organizers of The Running Event and now the event is here! After hitting a quick Lightning Round of industry topics, the guys get into what they think will go down in Nashville. Here's the rundown, with time codes, for today's episode:TARIFF WATCH 2025! What does the new trade handshake with China mean for the outdoor industry? (8:00)According to remarks made by REI CEO Mary Beth Laughton wants the retailer to be more welcoming to casual participants. Does this mean that REI is going to get more casual? (15:10)Previewing Switchback Spring! What we are expecting from this new show. (27:00)Our predictions! Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave all make a prediction for Switchback Spring. (38:27)The Parting Shot: Colin awards the first ever Rock Fighter of the Week to journalist Maggie Slepian. Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!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.
In this episode, Heather Kelly, founder of Heather's Choice, shares the raw, real story behind building her food company from scratch. She talks about how outdoor adventures shaped her confidence, what she learned from raising early-stage capital, and the emotional toll of nearly going bankrupt. Heather also reflects on her Shark Tank appearance, the big move from Alaska to Oregon, and why she's choosing to scale her business her way. This is a conversation about ambition, resilience, and staying grounded in your values even when the pressure to grow fast gets loud. If you're building something, this one's for you.Topics We CoverThe tension between growth, authenticity, and maintaining control in founder-led businessesHow adventure and time offline influence entrepreneurial resilience and creativityThe reality of startup funding: lessons from angel investment and Shark TankThe evolving mission and market of Heather's Choice—from outdoor meals to everyday solutionsThe bold move from Alaska to Oregon to scale manufacturing and build a sustainable futureLearn more about KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation EnterpriseLinks:Heather's ChoiceProper Hotel - AustinProfit First - bookConnect with Heather on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInChristian's website
Get ready for an inspiring journey into the heart of adventure and purpose on this episode of The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast! Host Rick Saez sits down with legendary polar explorer, speaker, and activist Sunniva Sorby. From her early days trading a computer programming job in Norway for a wild leap into outdoor leadership, to groundbreaking expeditions across Antarctica and the Arctic, Sunniva shares how embracing risk and finding her "tribe" at A16 shaped her life's trajectory. Facebook Twitter Instagram Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Sign up for my Newsletter HERE I'd love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: rick@ricksaez.com From Boardroom to Blizzard: What Adventure Taught Me About Showing Up What Happened: I used to be a computer programmer in Norway. Yep—cubicles, keypads, and killer boredom. Until one day, I stumbled on a pamphlet during a visit to my mom in Montreal. It was for an outdoor leadership school in Alberta. A few weeks later, I'd quit my job, ditched the keyboard, and traded banking spreadsheets for snowshoes. That decision launched a life of adventure I never imagined—from working at A16, where I found my first “tribe,” to skiing across Antarctica, and even tracking a polar bear named Violet in the Arctic wilds. But here's what really shifted everything. After one particularly brutal expedition where I was sick, exhausted, and convinced I couldn't take one more step, I realized something that changed me forever: Strength isn't about pushing through until you collapse. It's about listening to your body, honoring your limits, and knowing when to ask for help. That moment stripped away my ego—and gave me something far more valuable: clarity. Principle: Too many of us think success means crossing the finish line—no matter the cost. But the truth is, the finish line isn't what matters most. It's who we become along the way. And if you're only measuring strength by how much you can endure, you're missing the deeper lesson adventure teaches: real courage is found in slowing down, tuning in, and showing up—again and again, even when it's hard. Transition: The problem is, most people wait for the "right time" to go after what they want. But that moment doesn't come with a red carpet. It often shows up disguised as fear, discomfort, or a tiny whisper that says: “There's more out there for you.” If you've ever felt stuck in your head, waiting for certainty before taking the next step—you're not alone. It's not that you're lazy or lacking discipline. You've just never been shown a different way to move forward that honors your humanity and your ambition. That's Why: That's why we recorded this episode. To remind you that the wild isn't just out there—it's in you. Whether you're chasing polar bears or your next big idea, your journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's. But it does have to start with one thing: action. Call to Action: Feel stuck in your own head and unsure how to take the next step? That uncertainty isn't a dead-end—it's your invitation. Tune in to this episode and learn how outdoor adventure teaches us to push past fear and step into purpose, one moment (and one polar bear) at a time.
Today on the show Colin is joined by the regular Monday crew of Eoin Comerford and Producer Dave to kick off their coverage of the summer 2025 Trade Show Season. Here's the run down!What have learned from the past 10 years tumultuous trade show scene and shows do we actually need? (05:50)On the eve of GOA Connect and with Portland's Next Adventure closing up, what do we make of the broader specialty landscape as we head to a show focused on independent dealers? (20:55)GOA Connect Preview and Predictions! This episode comes out on the first day of exhibition at GOA Connect, what are we expecting? (34:30)The Parting Shot: Producer Dave has some feelings about threats to outdoor schools and Eoin highlights some new dealers who have joined GOA's ranks. (47:17)Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!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.
In this exclusive interview, I chat with Peter Hlynsky, CEO of MEC (Mountain Equipment Company), one of Canada's most iconic outdoor retailers. Peter shares his remarkable journey from CFO to CEO over five years at MEC, detailing his passion for the outdoors that initially drew him to the company rather than retail specifically.MEC's origin story is captivating - it began in the early 1970s, when University of British Columbia students drove to REI in Washington, bought climbing gear, and sold it from their van on campus. This evolved into Canada's premier outdoor retail cooperative with 21 stores by 2020, becoming what Peter describes as "a candy store for the outdoors."The company's unique employee culture sets MEC apart in the competitive outdoor retail landscape. Staff members genuinely live the lifestyle they sell through "Rad Days" - paid outdoor adventures where employees test gear and bring back real-world experiences. This authentic product knowledge enables staff to provide honest recommendations, sometimes even steering customers away from products that don't fit their specific needs.Peter discusses MEC's significant transformation from a member-owned cooperative to a private company, maintaining the "member" terminology and benefits that resonate with Canadian consumers. The recently relaunched membership program includes purchase-based discounts, exclusive access to popular store events, and MEC's legendary "rock solid guarantee" - one of the industry's most comprehensive return policies.A significant development is MEC's return to Canadian ownership after being acquired by private equity in 2020. Peter and Chief Merchandising Officer Chris Beyer joined the new Canadian ownership group, led by Tim Gu, bringing manufacturing expertise that is particularly valuable for MEC's private label products, which comprise one-third of their business alongside branded products from Patagonia, Arc'teryx, and Yeti.The merchandising strategy balances premium branded products with MEC's highly-regarded private label offerings, providing similar quality at lower prices without wholesale markups. This combination creates a compelling value proposition that competitors struggle to match.Looking ahead, Peter sees significant growth opportunities as competitors exit the market following the COVID-19 pandemic. Atmosphere closed standalone stores, and regional players shuttered operations, creating organic growth potential. MEC plans opportunistic store expansion in underserved Canadian markets, capitalizing on available real estate from retailer closures.Peter's retail advice emphasizes focusing relentlessly on core competencies rather than chasing trending business models. For MEC, this means maintaining its specialty outdoor retailer identity through exceptional in-store service, curated product assortments, and a consistent customer experience across all channels.The episode highlights how authentic brand positioning, employee engagement, and customer-centric policies can sustain competitive advantages in challenging retail environments. MEC's successful transition from a cooperative to a company while preserving its brand values demonstrates effective change management in retail transformation. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.
Today on the show Colin is joined by the regular Rock Fight Monday crew of Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford (aka The Consigliere). And this week that crew hits the following topics!Which brand would you resurrect? On the heels of last weeks Top 5 Outdoor Apparel Brands episode, the good folks at the Utah State Outdoor Archive reached out and asked us to memorialize the outdoor brands we've lost over the years. So we take a look at several of those names and talk about which brands we are missing the most. (04:38)Industry News Lightning Round! Next we take a look at some recent updates to three stories we've covered on The Rock Fight. The latest court rulings on the Trump tariffs, Dick's first earnings report post Foot Locker acquisition, and a change in CEO at Vail Resorts. (20:20)The Parting Shot! For this week's parting shot Eoin implores our industry to support emerging brands so we can help minimize the damage inflicted upon them by the decisions being made by our current presidential administration. (38:27)Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!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 show Colin is joined by the CEO of Reju, Patrik Frisk.Started in 2023, Reju is a "textile regeneration company" that is trying to create a circular system for polyester by taking existing polyester garments and turning them back into reusable polyester components that apparel brands can then make into new garments. On today's episode Patrik talks about the mission of the brand, the challenges they face, and the need for these kinds of innovative solutions to solve our textile waste problem.Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!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.
This episode is a conversation with Dawson Westeknsow, a seasoned product leader in the outdoor industry who has held key roles at Thule, REI, and Oboz Footwear. Now working as a professional EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer, Dawson shares the principles of EOS and how it can dramatically improve leadership, structure, and clarity for businesses—especially those in the outdoor industry.Key Topics:Dawson's Journey into Outdoor Product Management From sales at a power tool company to leading product at REI and Oboz, Dawson's entrepreneurial spirit found a home in product roles that mimicked running mini-businesses within larger organizationsDiscovering EOS Dawson was first exposed to EOS while working with a founder-led outdoor brand facing leadership dysfunction. The system helped untangle issues by introducing clarity, structure, and accountability.What Is EOS? EOS is a simple, proven framework to help business owners get what they want from their business by focusing on:Vision – Clear goals and a roadmap to get there.People – Right people in the right seats.Data – Running the business on facts, not feelings.Issues – Identifying and solving problems at their root.Process – Systematizing key operations.Traction – Ensuring day-to-day execution aligns with long-term goals.Why EOS Works for Small Outdoor BrandsEOS helps create the kind of business where founders can finally take a vacation—because everyone knows what they're supposed to be doing and is actually doing it. It's especially powerful for companies with fractional or remote teams.Real Results From smoother product launches to founders finally stepping out of the daily grind, Dawson shares stories of transformation that make a compelling case for EOS—even (or especially) for companies under 50 employees.Links & Show Notes:KORE OutdoorsThe EOS Vision/Traction OrganizerBooks mentioned:TractionWhat The Heck is EOS? Connect with Dawson:Dawson's websiteDawson on LinkedInConnect with Christian:Christian's websiteChristian on LinkedIn
Lots of people dream of starting a ski or snowboard or some type of company in the outdoor industry. But how do you go about actually doing that, and really getting a company off the ground? At Blister Summit 2025, I talked with four individuals who had the dream — and the audacity — to start their own companies: Klem Branner, Venture Snowboards; Will Ritter, Spark R&D; Jamie Grant, CARV; and Cobey Nash, AlpenFlow Design. Today you'll hear them talk about the highs, the lows, and the breakthroughs that come with starting a company — and the arguably even more challenging work of keeping a company going.RELATED LINKS:Get Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:New Blister Cinematic Ep w/ Cody (1:00)New BLISTER+ Members (2:01)Founder Introductions (3:42)How Long from Idea to Launch? (5:46)How Did You Move from Idea to Launch? (14:41)Starting 25 Years Ago vs Starting Today (23:45)Funding: To Take or Not to Take? (34:01)Audience Questions:How did you know people would want your products? (45:33)Tell us about your first order? (47:03)Concerns about the future? (48:29)How did you know this was a product worth building? (50:02)What was your darkest moment? (52:11)How can we best support small brands? (57:04)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED Bikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today on The Rock Fight we dig into last week's news that Dick's Sporting Goods has acquired Foot Locker. Colin is joined by Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford to discuss and answer the following questions:How does this acquisition play into Dick's long term strategy? (06:45)How has the market reacted to the acquisition? (19:25)What will be the fallout to footwear brands? (23:28)How will this acquisiton impact the broader outdoor industry? (28:07)Lastly Colin wraps up the show with The Parting Shot with a tip for any of our older listeners!Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
Tina Thompson, co-founder of Seniq, joins us to talk about the deeply intentional process behind launching a new kind of outdoor apparel brand. From obsessing over product development to creating grassroots buzz without paid influencers, Tina shares the highs, lows, and learnings from Seniq's first year in business.Topics We Cover:The origin story of Seniq and what makes it differentPrioritizing product over marketing—and why that's workingBuilding relationships instead of transactions with early customers and ambassadorsThe emotional toll and self-discovery of being a founderThe role of strategic partners and angel investorsWhat's next for Seniq's product expansion and retail growthLearn more about KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation EnterpriseLinks:SeniqSeniq Ski Collection launch videoTina's blog post - Advice Worth Ignoring: Building a Startup on Gut InstinctsAnna Wintour's MasterclassFounders Podcast about Todd Graves of Raising Canes
It takes a lot of dedication, hard work and patience to make it in a saturated hunting industry filled with online content creators. There are different avenues many follow during their own growth, and some are better than others. This week our host Sam dives into the mindset of a Brand Ambassador in the outdoor industry. The key takeaways from this episode include setting you and/or your brand apart, developing and cultivating quality relationships, building trust and authenticity, and certainly what NOT to do along the way. Sam views the Brand Ambassador from the perspective of both the creator and the organization and highlights the importance to representing both your affiliates and hunting in general with respect. If you have the words "Brand Ambassador", "Field Staff" or "Pro Staff" next to your name, or if you are thinking about representing an organization in such a capacity, then this is a must listen. Fall Obsession Podcast is sponsored by:Hoot Camo Company (https://hootcamo.com/)Bear River Archery (https://www.bearriverarchery.com/)Trophy Edits (https://trophyedits.com/?ref=fallobsession)The Outdoor Call Radio App (https://www.theoutdoorcallradio.com/)
In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Raised Hunting family to dive into their journey—how it all began, how it's evolved, and the powerful vision behind "Raised Hunting." From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone in the outdoor community, their story is one of passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication to the hunting lifestyle. We're beyond grateful to call these folks friends and to share not only this conversation but also the woods with them. Their impact on the outdoor world is nothing short of inspiring—can't wait for you to hear their story! Rack Hub: https://www.rack-hub.com/pages/the-rut-giveaway Use Buckmasters25 and receive 25% off your next purchase of Rocky boots! Rocky Boot: https://www.rockyboots.com Easton: https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=easton+archery&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8 Support us by subscribing, liking, and sharing! New Merch: https://www.buckmasters-store.com/collections/2024-merchandise Grab your subscription and merch: https://www.buckmasters-store.com/ Follow us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/buckmasters/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buckmastersnation/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@buckmastersnation Twitter: https://twitter.com/bmnation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/buckmastersmagazine
This episode features a deep dive into the evolving world of outdoor content creation, brand partnerships, and community building with Aaron Lutze, former Red Bull field marketing manager turned full-time content creator and YouTuber behind "Super Rider." The conversation is rich with insights on how challenger brands can effectively partner with creators, the value of long-term brand relationships, and the future of media in the outdoor industry.Aaron shares his journey from being an OG trials rider and VHS tape producer to his corporate career at Red Bull, and his eventual return to content creation. He explains his belief in building value and community over time rather than chasing viral hits. Central to his philosophy is the idea that content is king, but distribution is queen. He discusses the challenges and rewards of building a YouTube channel from scratch, his dream of reviving the Japanese trials show "Super Rider," and why authenticity and long-term partnerships are key for brands working with creators.The conversation also explores field marketing, the art of creating "double secret handshakes" to unlock hyper-local opportunities, and how brands can connect meaningfully with communities rather than simply imposing their agendas.Show Notes:Learn more about KORE & the KORE SummitAaron's YouTube channel: Super RiderAaron's podcast: Second Nature The Second Nature Slack channelThe Infinite Game - book by Simon SinekInfluencers vs Content Creators - interview with Patrick CrawfordSix at 6 newsletter by Billy Oppenheimer
Jason Bolt has successfully built and sold companies in the outdoor industry, but more importantly, he's been a mentor to many well-known brands in the space. As the founder of Revant Optics, he shares his journey, complete with the ups and downs along the way. This conversation ends with a powerful call to action for the entire outdoor industry, offering a solution to taking care of the outdoor playgrounds that we all know and love. Jason Bolt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonbolt/ Revant: https://www.revantoptics.com/ Society43: https://society43.com/ Evo: https://www.evo.com/ 5 Stages of Business: https://hbr.org/1983/05/the-five-stages-of-small-business-growth 16 Personalities: https://www.16personalities.com/ Shwood: https://shwoodshop.com/ Josué Rivas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josuefoto/ Arkema: https://www.arkema.com/usa/en/product/technicalpolymers/rilsan-family-products/rilsan-pa11/ Foto Foto: https://fotofoto.io/ 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
Tariffs enacted by President Trump are disrupting the global markets, and today Sun outdoors reporter Jason Blevins talks about how Colorado outdoor manufacturing companies are trying to find their way in the changing tides.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today Colin reflects on this past week when he and Producer Dave attended Functional Fabric Fair in Portland (Oregon) and takes a deeper look at what National Trade Shows should do in a world where the smaller shows are so effective.Then Colin is joined by Producer Dave and outdoor journalist and host of Open Container Doug Schnitzspahn to reflect back on the role Bob Woodward played setting the tone for the Outdoor Industry. RIP Woody.Remembering Rob Coppolillo. Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Register For Obōz Trails For Tree Challenge at trailsfortrees.com. Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
In this episode, Cassie Abel, founder and CEO of Wild Rye, joins the podcast to share the real story behind building a women-first outdoor apparel brand rooted in the mountain town of Ketchum, Idaho.Cassie opens up about the early chaos of launching Wild Rye, including a flawed first product run, a last-minute brand name change, and the realities of navigating co-founder dynamics. She also talks through the years-long process of expanding into snow outerwear and what it means to lead with intuition in a data-driven industry.This conversation covers decision-making under pressure, the challenges of raising capital and the unique energy that comes from building a brand with heart. It's a candid and insightful episode for anyone curious about what it takes to grow a purpose-driven business in the outdoor industry. Show Notes:Learn more about KOREWild Rye websiteSecond Nature Podcast with CassieTitle Nine PitchfestWomen-Led WednesdayTory Burch Foundation FellowshipCassie on LinkedInChristian on LinkedIn
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes Doug Larson, co-host of DUTV. The conversation dives into Doug's journey in the outdoor industry, highlighting his early experiences and how he transitioned into the world of duck hunting. Doug shares insights into his background in marketing and writing, including his inspiration to author a duck hunting book. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with stories and the history of Doug's involvement with Ducks Unlimited.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org
Darren Josey is an outdoorsman, bird watcher, spouse, father of two, and the founder of First Seed Sown. First Seed Sown is a sales and marketing agency serving fellow BIPOC-owned businesses, brands looking to improve their DEI initiatives, and municipalities with environmental justice communities who want to make the outdoors more equitable for everyone in their city. Connect with DJ or join his "Marketing on a $0 Budget" class: https://www.firstseedsown.com/workshops This is a longer episode than usual, but it's FULL of helpful perspectives for freelancers. Here are some timestamps so you can find parts to listen back to a second time!: (03:00) - What First Seed Sown is and why DJ founded this company (04:31) - How finding your purpose and mission takes time (05:30) - Getting his start at Vibram and the opportunities DJ created for himself (06:30) - How Vibram maximized the start of social media, a hole in the marketplace, and a book launch to dominate the market (07:30) - The issues leading to Vibram's downturn (09:00) - How to apply Vibram's growth to the current market (09:30) - Why starting your product-based brand as narrow as possible is key to success (10:25) - The importance of listening to your market and pivoting when your users ask you to change (13:24) - How working in retail shaped DJ's entire career and how it applies to you and the industry (15:25) - How products move from a brand to a sales rep to the retail store and why it matters (16:15) - The sales knowledge you can only learn from retail (16:30) - What you need to know about wholesale vs direct to consumer business if you're a small brand (18:23) - Why understanding the retail ecosystem is essential for creatives and service providers (20:55) - How the product, sales, and marketing teams influence each other (24:40) - The relationship between price and value of a product (25:58) - What the sales team determines at a brand (26:16) - When the product, sales, and marketing departments are at their best (27:00) - The role of the CEO in leading a brand (28:50) - The in-house complexities all freelancers should know about when waiting for your next contract (31:17) - The person you're working with at a brand is overworked and under-resourced (33:10) - Why AI isn't going to solve our overwork issues (33:55) - Why working for himself has been key to DJ meeting his own potential (36:32) - What two strategies you need to implement to successfully pitch your next client in the outdoor industry (40:19) - The factor most freelancers forget to think about when it comes to pitching to brands (42:24) - Your future clients want to hear from you and not just to be sold your services (44:40) - Who will actually read your pitches at a brand and who won't (45:16) - Why meeting people in person is still essential to building relationships with potential clients (47:57) - The outdoors industry is still a handshakes and shoe leather business (50:00) - Building in-person relationships is a muscle we all need to strengthen post-pandemic (51:15) - The privilege of leveraging big contracts as an opportunity to create and sell additional work (52:20) - The responsibility we have to our fellow creatives by creating more transparency and not undervaluing our work (55:45) - Why DJ structures his pricing the way he does and how it ties into his mission (56:20) - The importance of having different rates for different kinds of work and different results (58:08) - DJ's move from Vibram to Topo Athletic and what he learned from handshakes and beer trades (59:08) - Why "building a hometown brand" is your next marketing strategy (1:01:17) - DJ's role at Polartec and the impact of mixing with the biggest brands in the outdoors industry (1:02:13) - Your favorite brands use the same fabric but position it differently and you can too (1:03:52) - The power of creating environmental justice communities and the impact of shifting from brand to cities partners (1:06:46) - The powerful vision behind First Seed Sown and the impact of a wholistic approach in Malden, Massachusetts (1:08:26) - What a wholistic approach can create for environmental justice communities (1:09:27) - Sharing outdoor industry jobs with the next generation of leaders (1:11:02) - DJ's commitment to supporting BIPOC-owned companies as the root of founding First Seed Sown (1:12:10) - Why supporting diverse communities is essential to growing the outdoors industry (1:13:40) - How DJ's approach of paying it forward is a foundational tool to cultivating business relationships (1:15:52) - DJ's work as a core advisor of REI's Path Ahead Ventures and how programs like this create equity in business (1:17:04) - Why having brands made by diverse founders is a smart business move and how to navigate the attacks on DEI programs (1:18:26) - How DJ supporting up and coming BIPOC brands with the wholistic ecosystem (1:19:07) - Why timing matters as a business owner, especially when you're thinking about bringing on support (1:19:48) - Future things to be on the lookout for to benefit from DJ's extensive expertise (1:21:24) - How to strengthen the industry by introducing brands to DJ's work, hiring more diverse voices on your projects, and supporting outdoor ethnic affinity groups (1:23:29) - How DJ stays optimistic and focused by doing mission-aligned work that supports businesses increase their profit and prioritize people Connect with Justine: https://www.justawildthought.com Was this episode helpful? Screenshot this and tell a friend to go to justawildthought.com/podcast! Please rate and review Creatives in the Wild on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Today on the show we start by helping to break the news about Brands For Public Lands, a coalition of outdoor industry businesses who are speaking up on behalf of our sacred public spaces. Colin is joined by the Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance, Paul Hendricks, who gives the background on this new coalition, how it came together, and what will happen next. Then Mountain Gazette's Kyle Frost returns to The Rock Fight. Last weeks edition of Kyle's newsletter, Here & There, discussed partisanship in nature. He and Colin dig into the examples Kyle offered that show we are not always united when it comes to outdoor conversations. They also talk about the current tariff situation and get Kyle's point of view from an American currently living abroad.To learn more about participating in Brands For Public Lands click here. Subscribe to Here & There by clicking here or by subscribing to Mountain Gazette.Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Register For Obōz Trails For Tree Challenge at trailsfortrees.com. Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
What else could The Rock Fight's normal Monday crew of Colin, Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave be talking about today but the recent announcement of tariffs and their impact on the business of going outside.They start off by getting into the broader impact of the announcement and the idea that higher tariffs could drive manufacturing back to the US. Then they talk about the how the tariffs will specifically impact the outdoor industry and offer suggestions on what brands and retailers should expect ahead of the delivery of Fall 25 products.They wrap things up with The Parting Shot where they take a look at some of the better 2025 attempts by brands to pull off an April Fools Day joke on social media including the following posts:Eoin: The Hoka Speed LoaferLIVSN: Adventure Pants CapitalGarage Grown Gear: Move To AnalogGnara: Netflix n Chill PantWild Rye: Ski BalletDarn Tough: Dating AppSkratch Labs: MarathongCheck out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Register For Obōz Trails For Tree Challenge at trailsfortrees.com. Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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 show Colin takes a look back at an age old outdoor industry problem. The 'outdoor boys club' and a continued lack of gender representation is something that has persisted in the outdoor industry since there has been an outdoor industry. Today on the show Colin is joined by Cassie Abel, the founder and CEO of Wild Rye, who provides a unique perspective on the challenges and progress regarding women's inclusion in outdoor spaces. Throughout their conversation, Cassie & Colin take a look at the historical patterns of inequality, significant steps taken been taken, and the ongoing obstacles that hinder true equity. Cassie also articulates the necessity for women in leadership positions to in order to create meaningful change and highlights the importance of collaboration over competition among outdoor brands. Basically as Cassie puts it, "it's time to prop up the girls club."Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Register For Obōz Trails For Tree Challenge at trailsfortrees.com. Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
The one and only Kelli Jones joins host Christian Rawles to talk about how she's grown Noso Patches from creating a patch to repair her beloved puffy jacket to a thriving business on a mission to keep outdoor apparel out of the landfill. Kelli has been instrumental in creating the Title 9 Pitch Fest and has worked hard to support and advocate for other female founders in the outdoor industry.This conversation covers how Kelli puts the 'show' in trade show, how she decided to go all-in on Noso, growing a business in a mountain town like Jackson & the work Noso is doing to keep outdoor apparel going for longer.Show Notes:Learn more about KORE OutdoorsNoso Patches websiteNoso Patches on InstagramGoggleSocTraction book & the EOS SystemRocky the RocketConnect with Kelli on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedIn
Today on show Colin is joined by the regular Monday crew (Producer Dave, Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford) to talk about the recent movement that is encouraging outdoor enthusiasts in Europe to look locally for their outdoor products in protest of recent "political" developments in the US. (06:46)They also talk about Academy forging ahead with plans to open 25 new doors in 2025 and Lululemon's recent earnings report showing double digit growth. (21:10)Then they crack open listener feedback that came in after last week's episode regarding the evolution of innovation in the outdoor industry. (30:38)They of course wrap things up with The Parting Shot where this week we have a look back on a busy first quarter of 2025 in the Outdoor Industry. (44:34)Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Register For Obōz Trails For Tree Challenge at trailsfortrees.com. Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
Welcome Episode 500 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast . . . Today I'm joined by Lindsay Cousley — a seasoned executive leader with deep roots in the outdoor, sporting goods, and wellness industries. He's helped build and scale global brands with heart, empathy, and a whole lot of strategic know-how. Outside the boardroom, Lindsay surfs, cycles, backpacks, hikes, and even plays rugby — living proof that adventure fuels leadership. Show Notes Lindsay Cousley Linkedin What Backpacking the Alps at 14 Taught Me About Building Global Brands What Happened: When I was 14, I wasn't reading business books or plotting a career. I was deep in the Alps, sweating under a too-heavy pack, trying not to get left behind by a youth leader named Paul who thought “rest day” was code for “hike faster.” We carried everything on our backs, got lost a few times (intentionally or not, I still wonder), and somehow made it from France to Italy and back through Switzerland. It was magic. But here's the kicker—I didn't know it then, but that summer was shaping how I'd lead teams, sell products, and build brands. Fast forward a few decades, and I'm sitting in a boardroom, helping turn around an outdoor company. It's go time. No time for perfect plans, just the instinct to act, adapt, and trust the people around you. Sound familiar? That's wilderness training 101. Principle: Adventure doesn't just happen in the mountains. It shows up in every tough decision, every product pitch, and every “what now?” moment in business. The most successful leaders in the outdoor space don't wait for permission—they act, they adapt, and most importantly, they care. Passion for the outdoors isn't a cute brand trait—it's the fuel that drives resilient leadership. Transition: Too many folks think a successful outdoor career comes from the right resume or the right LinkedIn connections. But what's really holding them back isn't lack of experience—it's a lack of direction. They're stuck waiting to be “qualified,” not realizing that leadership often comes from showing up, not showing off. That's Why: That's why this episode is a must-listen. Lindsay Cousley doesn't just talk outdoor—he's lived it. From hauling gear across Europe as a teen to reviving struggling companies in the U.S., his journey is a masterclass in how passion, people, and a little grit can fuel leadership at any level. Call to Action: Still feeling like you're stuck watching others make moves in the outdoor space while you spin your wheels? That "meh" feeling about your impact isn't just in your head—it's a sign you need a new approach. Let Lindsay's story show you what's possible when you blend passion with purpose.
Today on the show Colin, Producer Dave, and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford have some innovative suggestions for the outdoor industry.Innovation in the outdoors is a misunderstood word. It's often only applied to the performance of the apparel, gear, and footwear that the industry produces. And while there will surely be advances that will improve the stuff we make the opportunity for the industry to innovate lies more within our approach to making and marketing that stuff.On this episode we take a look at what can be learned from (gasp!) fast fashion as well as the opportunities that lie within experiential marketing. We of course wrap things up with The Parting Shot by lobbing a rock at the latest news to come out of Authentic Brands.Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
Second Nature turns 1 year old on March 22, 2025 and a lot has happened in the outdoor industry during that time. Two specific topics came up this past week, and we wanted to take some time to discuss the impact on the industry: OnlyFans supporting athletes and Outside's latest news cycle. An interesting time for the outdoor industry, to say the least. Show Notes: Big Alta: https://www.daybreakracing.com/big-alta-50k Sabrina Stanley: https://www.instagram.com/sabrinaleannstanley/ Escape Collective Article: https://escapecollective.com/theres-a-wildfire-outside/ Ikigai (Book): https://amzn.to/4hgIgeq Brand, Product, Content: Eric's Film (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avuV-EKwQz8 Anton x La Sportiva: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHEAYSPOu_j/ 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
On this special episode, it's the two co-hosts of the On Our Mark podcast talking about how each of them got their start in the industry. For our avid listeners who want to get into the outdoor industry, it can mean quitting a job with nothing else lined up or just as simple as being in the right place at the right time. But getting your foot in the door can be a process and on this one Luke and Tyler are talking about how they got their start.In this episode we discuss: - Who are Tyler and Luke - Dream jobs as a kid- Getting into the outdoors industry - Being in the right place at the right time - Sleeping in a car for the first couple days - Finding a job that aligns with your passion - Luke's journey to the industry and Weatherby - Life tips and advice - Favorite rifles in the lineup - What do you want to be when you grow up View Weatherby career openings: https://weatherby.isolvedhire.com/jobs/ Connect with Weatherby! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weatherbyinc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Weatherbyinc/Follow our shotgun page! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wbyfieldandflight/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WBYfieldandflight
Andy Bethune has spent his career developing brand and marketing strategies for the biggest names in the outdoor industry and founder-led startups just getting started. In this episode, Andy breaks down the components of branding and provides actionable steps to creating a clear brand strategy.This conversation covers topics such as consumer psychology, branding fundamentals, marketing strategies for startup brands, and what the outdoor industry can learn from the hunting industry.Andy is the Principal Strategist and Founder of Black Ram Consulting. Show Notes:KORE OutdoorsOrigin Agency Stone GlacierGritty FilmsFirst Light / Meat EaterConnect with Andy on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedIn
When Earl B. Hunter's son was seven years old, he took him on three-month, multi-state camping. It was a positive, life-changing experience for them both. But Earl was struck by the fact that over the entire trip, they saw just one other black family. As someone who was working in sales in the outdoor industry, Earl saw an opportunity and went on to found the for-profit company, Black Folks Camp Too. Chapters: 02:01 Earl Hunter Jr.: Champion of Outdoor Diversity Earl B. Hunter Jr., founder of Black Folks Camp Too, shares his mission to increase diversity in the outdoor industry. He recounts his journey from a corporate background to pioneering efforts to make camping more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. 03:19 Earl's Awakening to the Outdoors Earl reflects on his late introduction to the outdoors at age 40, sharing how his professional journey led him to discover the joys of camping. 05:39 The Life-Changing Camping Trip Earl recounts a transformative three-month camping trip with his son, where they bonded over adventures and music. The trip opened his eyes to the lack of diversity in camping and sparked his desire to create change in the outdoor community. 08:16 The Healing Power of Nature Earl discusses his belief that the outdoors can unite people across all backgrounds and foster a sense of belonging. 11:43 Understanding Historical Barriers Earl explains the historical context behind the absence of Black individuals in outdoor spaces, addressing generational fears and systemic barriers. 17:24 Introducing Black Folks Camp Too Earl introduces Black Folks Camp Too, a business aimed at bridging gaps in the outdoor industry. 21:59 The Business Model of Inclusion Earl outlines the business model of Black Folks Camp Too, focusing on their outdoor education academy designed for the industry. 25:37 Addressing Deep-Rooted Challenges Earl discusses how the outdoor industry can tackle systemic challenges by understanding historical context and inviting diverse populations. 30:04 The Importance of Understanding ‘Why' Earl emphasizes the need to grasp the underlying reasons for the lack of diversity in outdoor spaces before implementing marketing strategies. 32:24 Breaking Historical Barriers Earl discusses the deep-rooted fears and historical trauma that prevent many Black individuals from enjoying the outdoors. 35:08 Consumer Engagement and State Parks Earl outlines the consumer marketing strategies his organization employs to ensure that outdoor spaces are ready to welcome new visitors. He stresses the significance of making positive first experiences to foster a lasting connection with nature. 39:43 Changing Generational Patterns Earl shares his views on the need to involve parents in outdoor activities to break generational patterns of disconnection from nature. 43:30 Unity in the Outdoor Community Earl introduces the Unity Blaze Way, a concept encouraging individuals to build friendships across racial lines and invite others to experience the outdoors. He believes that shared experiences in nature can foster understanding and unity among diverse communities. 51:29 The Future of Black Folks Camp Too Earl paints an optimistic picture of the future for Black Folks Camp Too, emphasizing the importance of transferring knowledge and love for the outdoors from older generations to younger ones. 55:02 A Call to Action for the Community Earl concludes with a heartfelt message urging listeners to support the recovery efforts in Western North Carolina and to engage with diverse communities. His optimism and commitment to inclusion serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for positive change.
In this episode, Thomas and Nate discuss shed hunting, land management work, and day rate/partnership costs in the outdoor industry. Other Topics Include: - Finding a 88" and 92"shed - Prescribed Fire do's and dont's - Day Rate price - Product only gig's - and much more! Reach out at info@identicaldraw.com
In this episode of the KORE Outdoors podcast, host Christian Rawles talks with Rob Owens, the founder and president of Onward Up Sales and Marketing, an outdoor sales agency in Western Canada. Rob shares his journey from a sponsored climber and mountain guide to building a successful sales agency representing top outdoor brands. The discussion covers the crucial role of sales reps, strategies for early-stage brands, and the intersection of alpinism and entrepreneurship. Rob provides valuable insights on commitment, self-awareness, and risk management, all critical elements for thriving in the mountains and in business. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone involved in the outdoor industry.Show Notes:Learn more about KORE OutdoorsOnwardUp Sales & MarketingOutter Limits SaskatoonJack TackleMark Twain quote Storm CareLearn more about wuwei
Out of Office – E5 – Mikaela Shiffrin 100 Wins, Double BOA, Killington World Cup Your weekly dose of Outdoor Industry news, all within the past week including Mikaela's 100th World Cup win, double BOA tech updates, some thoughts on no Killington World Cup, and more…. daylight savings is here [...] The post Out of Office – E5 – Mikaela Shiffrin 100 Wins, Double BOA, Killington World Cup appeared first on Out Of Collective.
Bill Simon, former executive of The North Face, Converse, Cole Haas, Marmot, and more talks about his start in the outdoor industry making technical garments in Taiwan in the late 70s, the shift to a global outdoor supply chain over the course of his career. Listen to these conversations on the Highlander Podcast. https://opdd.usu.edu/podcast The Highlander Podcast is sponsored by the Outdoor Product Design & Development program at Utah State University, a four-year, undergraduate degree training the next generation of product creators for the sports and outdoor industries. Learn more at opdd.usu.edu or follow the program on LinkedIn or Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/usuoutdoorproduct/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/opdd Discover the Outdoor Recreation Archive on Instagram or on USU's website. https://instagram.com/outdoorrecarchive https://library.usu.edu/archives/ora Subscribe to our ORA newsletter: https://outdoorrecarchive.substack.com/ Outdoor Recreation Archive Instagram https://www.instagram.com/outdoorrecarchive/?hl=en Episodes hosted, edited, and produced by Chase Anderson in beautiful Cache Valley, Utah. https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasewoodruffanderson/
Jonathan Retseck founded RXR Sports to work with athletes, explorers and storytellers in outdoor brands. It didn't take long before RXR amassed what is arguably the dream team of athletes under management. Alex Honnold, Jimmy Chin, Rich Roll and many more are part of their stacked roster of talent. But the story goes well beyond the transactional nature of sponsorship - what RXR does to build deep partnerships with intention has led to some incredible media output, the most well known being films like Free Solo and Meru. In this unfiltered conversation with Jonathan, we talk about the founding of the agency and the challenges of maintaining a roster as heavy as theirs. Show Notes: Jonathan Retseck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanretseck/ RXR Sports: https://www.rxrsports.com/ Jimmy Chin: https://www.instagram.com/jimmychin/ Meru (Film): https://www.merufilm.com/ Free Solo (Film): https://films.nationalgeographic.com/free-solo Kate Courtney: https://www.instagram.com/kateplusfate She Sends Racing: https://www.shesends.it/ RXR Speakers: https://www.rxrsports.com/live Voicing Change Media: https://www.voicingchange.media/ BPC: Brand, Product, Content Shane Parrish - The Knowledge Project: https://www.youtube.com/@tkppodcast Farnum Street: https://fs.blog/newsletter/ Clear Thinking (Book): https://fs.blog/clear/ Small Brand Mentality (Channel): https://smallbrandmentality.substack.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
In this episode of the KORE Outdoors Podcast, host Christian Rawles talks with Dan Durston, founder of Durston Gear. Based in Golden, British Columbia, Durston Gear is renowned for its innovative ultralight backpacking gear. The discussion covers valuable insights on product innovation, inventory management, and authentic marketing within the outdoor industry. Dan also emphasizes the importance of nurturing a passionate community and staying true to core values while leading a product-driven company.Show Notes :KORE OutdoorsDurston GearSlow ProductivityMontana Knife CompanyZenBivyAlpacka RaftsThermarestFounders Podcast
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for outdoor gear skyrocketed, leading brands to ramp up production. But as the dust settled, it became clear that the industry had overestimated long-term consumer demand. Now, we're left with an oversaturated market, constant sales cycles, and a looming question: What do we do with all this extra gear?To help unpack this issue, I'm joined by Megan Davin, the founder of Adventurous Threads. We'll explore what led to this oversupply, how it's affecting retailers and consumers, and what steps companies and individuals can take to shift the industry toward a more sustainable future.Megan Davin is a passionate outdoor enthusiast with over 18 years in the outdoor industry. Based in Vermont, Megan has dedicated her career to blending the worlds of customer service, sales, and marketing to help brands tell meaningful stories that drive connection and sales. Megan is the Founder and Owner of Adventurous Threads, a Vermont-based mobile and online outdoor consignment business that provides affordable, high-quality gear to outdoor lovers. By keeping quality equipment in circulation, Adventurous Threads aims to make outdoor adventures accessible while reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. Together, Megan and Adventurous Threads are dedicated to inspiring responsible, sustainable outdoor practices and connecting people to the outdoors in a way that fosters appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of nature.INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/WEBSITE:https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/YOUTUBE: @theoutdoorminimalistORDER THE BOOK: https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/bookLISTENER SURVEY: https://forms.gle/jd8UCN2LL3AQst976--------------------Adventurous ThreadsWebsite: https://adventurousthreads.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventurous_threads
Today Colin is joined by Peter Whitcomb of Tersus Solutions, one of the players working to enable a thriving secondhand marketplace in the outdoor industry. Tersus Solutions acts as a backbone for brands striving to establish sustainable practices by managing their re-commerce efforts. Throughout their conversation, Colin and Peter examine the complexities and challenges inherent in fostering a circular economy for outdoor apparel, as well as the necessity for brands to embrace responsibility for their products beyond the point of sale. Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
Jen Loofbourrow is the founder of Alpine Fit, an Anchorage-based brand focused on making functional outdoor apparel. As the name suggests, Alpine Fit has created multiple fits for its apparel so that customers can find the perfect size for them.In this conversation, we discuss the challenges that come with creating multiple fit styles and how this is an advantage that smaller brands have over larger ones. Jen talks about her experiences working for Lululemon and how the different seasons of her career prepared her for launching Alpine Fit.Links:Alpine Fit WebsiteAlpine Fit on InstagramLearn more about KORE OutdoorsConnect with Christian on LinkedIn
Today Colin opens the show by talking about the amount of outdoor industry events scheduled to be held in just a few months (aka Junepocalypse) as well as the recently announced details for The Summit at the Outside Festival.Then he is joined by outdoor industry insider and consigliere to The Rock Fight, Eoin Comerford and "Producer" Dave to react to the recently launched Speed Loafer from Hoka. They also talk about how these big swings by brands can lead to a weaker outdoor industry and potentially put us on a path that would be similar to the fate currently being suffered by the surf industry. Lastly Colin wraps up the show with a Hoka themed edition of The Parting Shot!Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Help those who have been impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires by clicking here.Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
In this episode of Group Y Live, Oli Russell-Cowan is joined by legendary snowboarding photographer and the Founder of Nemo Design, Trevor Graves.Graves shares his journey from skateboarding in a small town in New York to becoming a key player in the snowboarding industry. He discusses the evolution of snowboarding, the importance of authenticity in action sports, and how technology, particularly AI, is reshaping creative work. Trevor also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of running an agency, the significance of networking, and offers valuable advice for aspiring creatives and athletes.Trevor discusses: His transitioned to snowboarding after being inspired by early snowboarders.Photography became a way to document his passion for snowboarding. Networking played a crucial role in his career development.Nemo Design founded to create a collaborative agency environment.Authenticity as a core value in action sports and photographyEvolution of the outdoor industryAI changing the landscape of creative work.The importance of grit and perseverance.He encourages aspiring creatives to take initiative and be proactive.You can follow what Trevor Graves is up to on Instagram at trevorgraves Like what you hear? Please consider subscribing on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and leave a short review. It takes less than 60 seconds, and it really makes a difference.The Group Y Live Podcast come out across all podcast players with a new episode every two weeks on Thursday. Past guests on The Rad Season Show include Stacy Peralta, Wim Hof, Mike Cessario, Xavier de le Rue, Todd Richards, JJ Thomas, Gary Land. Contact Oli Russell-Cowan On Instagram olirussellcowan On LinkedIn at olirussellcowan Thanks for listening & keep it rad!
Send us a textJoin us on the Living the Dream podcast with Curveball as we explore the entrepreneurial journey of Seth Spears, a mission-driven entrepreneur who values purpose over profit. From his beginnings in collegiate admissions to building successful digital marketing and wellness companies, Seth shares his story of overcoming adversity and finding fulfillment through helping others. Discover insights into his ventures, including Spears Marketing, WellnessMama.com, and Rewild Gear, as well as his passion for angel investing in the health and wellness industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about business, personal growth, and the importance of connecting with nature.www.sethspears.comWant to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600
In the future, will we still have public lands? Will new economic policies crash the outdoor industry? Will a popular drug actually get more people outside? Will we all soon be ski touring on e-skis (just like more and more people are riding around on e-bikes)? And will the phones in our pockets eventually replace satellite phones and our avy beacons? Jonathan Ellsworth and Paul Forward discuss all of this and more.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025TOPICS & TIMES:The New Administration & the Outdoors (2:50)Tariffs & the Outdoor Industry (9:44)Public Lands Threatened (18:08)Ozempic & Outdoor Recreation (29:58)e-Touring Skis?? (40:45)The Future of Sat Phones (51:42)The Future of Avy Beacons (55:23) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today on The Rock Fight (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin & Producer Dave are joined by legendary outdoor industry analyst Matt Powell.Over the course of his five predictions for 2025, Matt highlights the need for a shift in the outdoor industry's business model and emphasizes that the current approach of relying heavily on winter sports is unsustainable. The discussion touches on the convergence of athletic and outdoor markets, the importance of embracing fashion within the industry, the need for inclusivity to attract a more diverse customer base, and a whole lot more.Read Matt's latest Sneakernomics column (for even more 2025 predictions) by clicking here.Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's 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.
We haven't figured out how to spell it yet, but at least we came through with the awards for our favorite brands, product, content and athletes. Dylan and Aaron share their favorites from the year, as well as a look at what's in store for the year ahead. Show Notes: Skratch Labs: https://www.skratchlabs.com/ Hoka: https://www.hoka.com/ Raide Research: https://raideresearch.com/ Garmin Enduro 3: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/851039 DJI Osmo Pocket 3: https://store.dji.com/product/osmo-pocket-3 Deathgrip 2 Film: https://www.deathgrip2movie.com/ Team Sport Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEg_p1Lw2l4 Berm Peak: https://bermpeak.substack.com/ Katie Schide: https://www.instagram.com/katieschide/ Jesse Itzler Pancake Theory: https://milled.com/jesseitzler.com/free-swim-the-first-pancake-theory-y69p39H1fz4J5aAg Hoffman Process: https://www.hoffmaninstitute.org/ 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
What does the future hold for the outdoor industry? Matt Trappe and Steve Holmberg join Aaron on this week's podcast to share their predictions for the year ahead. Also included, hot takes and predictions from the community, and a bonus Galaxy Brain about the future of Second Nature. Show Notes: Matt Trappe (Linked In): https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-trappe/ Matt Trappe (Substack): https://amatterofbrand.substack.com/ Steve Holmberg (Linked In): https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenholmberg/ Steve Holmberg (Substack): https://steveholmberg.substack.com/ Insight Accelerator: https://www.stephenholmberg.com/ Auteur Sportif: https://auteursportif.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
New federal data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis found that Oregon’s outdoor industry continued to see growth last year, earning more than $8 billion. Kate Porche is the director for Oregon State University’s Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy. Randy Rosenberger is an economics professor in OSU's department of forestry. They both join us to break down the growth the industry has seen and what its future may look like.
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes videographer and photographer Brandon Fien to the studio. Brandon shares his journey into the world of content creation, beginning at the age of 14 after transitioning from a focus on baseball to a passion for capturing the beauty of waterfowl. The conversation delves into Brandon's experiences and insights in the realm of wildlife photography, showcasing his dedication to producing high-quality content that resonates with waterfowl enthusiasts. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about passion, creativity, and the art of storytelling through imagery.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org
Aaron Lutze is a creator and sports marketing savant. He's also a dear friend and mentor who has had an enormous impact on my career as an athlete and content creator. Aaron recruited me to Red Bull and acted as my manager for many years. He's recognized as one of the best sports marketers in the industry. Now, Aaron and I co-host another podcast called Second Nature where we talk about the Outdoor Industry, endeavoring to help people build brands, businesses, and careers in the space. In this conversation, we talk about the past and present of athlete partnerships, the reasons brands sponsor athletes, the value of creating longform content, audience vs. community, the future of athlete partnerships, and a lot more! LISTEN TO SECOND NATURE SIGNUP FOR SECOND NATURE NEWSLETTER FOLLOW SECOND NATURE ON LINKEDIN SIGNUP FOR THE FREETRAIL NEWSLETTER Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Use code freetrail15 for 15% off Gnarly Nutrition Get 30% off your first subscription of Ketone IQ at HVMN.com/FREETRAIL30 Freetrail Links: Website | Freetrail Pro | Patreon | Instagram | YouTube | Freetrail Experts Dylan Links: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Strava