Welcome to episode 540 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. A Holiday Replay of episode 495 with Will Schafer. Will is the Founder of Altisnooze, The Sleep Aid for High-Altitude.

This week, on episode 495, I'm talking with Will Schafer, founder of ALTISNOOZE. The First-of-its-kind sleep aid for high-altitude.

After struggling for years with sleeping during alpine adventures, Schafer came to learn from a sleep doctor that altitude insomnia is a thing. He connected with formulation experts to develop a natural solution, ALTISNOOZE.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

What Happened:

For years, I chalked up my awful sleep in the mountains to bad luck. Every time I went to Summit County, Colorado, my nights were a mess—staring at the ceiling, waking up feeling like I'd been run over by a snowcat, and then trying to enjoy the outdoors while running on fumes.

I blamed it on travel, excitement, bad pillows—you name it. But then I started noticing something weird. Friends on ski trips and camping adventures were having the same problem. Some of them, tough-as-nails hikers and backcountry warriors, were walking around like zombies after a single night at altitude.

That's when I met Dr. Michael Breus, a legit sleep doctor, who hit me with a truth bomb: altitude insomnia is real. And worse? It affects up to 75% of people. Your body's struggling with low oxygen, which wrecks your sleep cycle, making it nearly impossible to rest.

So, I set out on a mission to fix it. After a deep dive into research, testing a ridiculous amount of natural ingredients, and countless sleepless nights (for science), I created Altisnooze—a sleep aid designed specifically for high-altitude adventures, without the grogginess of melatonin.

Principle:

Bad sleep = bad adventure. Period.

You can have the best gear, the most epic trail planned, and a perfect sunrise waiting for you—but if you don't sleep well, your trip is going to suck.

Most people don't even realize altitude is the issue. They just assume they're bad sleepers, or that their body needs to "adjust." But waiting around for a week to acclimate? Not ideal when your trip is only a few days long.

Good sleep isn't just about comfort—it's about performance, recovery, and actually enjoying the adventure you planned.

Transition:

A lot of outdoor lovers deal with this and don't even realize what's holding them back. They push through exhaustion, drink too much caffeine, or try to knock themselves out with melatonin—only to wake up feeling worse.

That's exactly why I created Altasnooze. Because when you finally fix your sleep at altitude, everything changes—your energy, your performance, your mood, and most importantly, how much fun you have.

That's Why:

…we want to introduce you to Altisnooze and just dropped an episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast with Will Schaefer, founder of Altisnooze. He went from being a sleep-deprived mess in the mountains to developing a game-changing solution for adventurers who want to feel fabulous at altitude.

In this episode, we dive into the science of altitude insomnia, how it messes with your body, and what you can do to fix it—so your next high-altitude trip doesn't turn into a sleepless disaster.

Call to Action:

If you've ever struggled to sleep in the mountains, this episode is your wake-up call. (Pun intended.)

Don't let altitude ruin your adventure—get the inside scoop on fixing your sleep at high elevation and feeling your best.

🎧 Listen to the latest episode now → Podcast Link

P.S. Want to try Altasnooze? Will's giving our listeners 20% off! Just use code OutdoorBiz20 at checkout. Because better sleep = better adventures.

 

Show Notes

Will Schafer

ALTISNOOZE

Dr. Michael Breus

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #altitude insomnia, #AltiSnooze, #high altitude sleep aid, #altitude sickness, #sleep doctor, #Michael Breus, #adventure travel, #melatonin-free, #sleep disturbance, #alpinists, #electrolytes, #high altitude adventures, #natural supplements, #altitude symptoms

Welcome to episode 538 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. A Holiday Replay of episode 501 with Earl Hunter. Earl is a motivational speaker and founder of The Unity Folks™.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Today, on episode 501, Earl B. Hunter, Jr. from Black Folks Camp To make a second visit to The Show.

is the Founder and President of Black Folks Camp Too — a marketing-driven business whose mission is to increase diversity in the outdoor industry by making it easier, more interesting, and more fun for Folks to go camping.

He's an experienced business leader across multiple industries. He has been widely recognized for his ebullient personality, hard work ethic, and non-traditional approach to building relationships and closing deals.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

What Happened:

It was the summer of 2017. I was clocking miles like a long-haul trucker, repping campers for a living. My 7-year-old son called me out—said I'd promised to take him to Mount Rushmore. He was right. I'd driven past it more times than I could count, but I'd never stopped. So we hit the road.

We camped our way across the country, father and son, a Black duo in a tiny pop-up trailer, parking it beside some seriously decked-out RV setups. We saw the sights, roasted marshmallows, and somewhere near Albuquerque, we spotted something we hadn't seen in thousands of miles: another Black family camping. My son lit up and said, "Hey Daddy! Black people!"

That moment stuck. We talked to the family—Kimberly and crew—and she said something that flipped a switch in my brain: "Why don't you change that then?" That "why not you?" hit hard. By the time we were driving up the California coast, the name Black Folks Camp Too was born.

Principle:

Too often, we wait for permission—permission to belong, to show up, to start something meaningful. But sometimes, it takes seeing the gap with your own eyes, feeling the silence in certain spaces, to realize: you're the one who's supposed to fill it.

And in business, just like in the outdoors, if you're only serving the same people the same way… you're gonna miss the fire. The campfire, that is.

Transition:

Most people think getting more folks into the outdoors is about better gear or cool photos on Instagram. But that's not it. The real challenge is the invitation—and the welcome. And too many companies still don't know why the diversity gap exists, so they don't know how to fix it.

That's why a lot of businesses are struggling. Not because there's no market—but because they don't see who they're ignoring. And even when they do? They get hung up on the word Black in the name… instead of focusing on the unity behind the mission.

That's why:

That's why this episode matters. Earl Hunter isn't just talking about camping—he's talking about culture, connection, and cracking open an industry that's been too exclusive for too long. He's not asking for handouts or kumbayas. He's showing up with data, vision, and a real plan to shift the outdoor industry before it goes broke.

Call to Action (PAS style):

If you've ever felt like the outdoor world wasn't built for you—or your brand's been stuck serving the same crowd—it's time to tune in. Ignoring the invitation problem won't fix it. But this episode will give you a fresh lens and a fire to take action.

 Hit play now. Let's change the campfire conversation.

Show Notes:

Earl Hunter

Black Folks Camp Too

Oboz Insoles

Sylvansport

 Georgia Military College

 Appalachian State University

Earl's Trail name:  Icebreaker

 Mount Rushmore

 Unity Blaze

 Favorite piece of outdoor gear: OBOZ Insoles

Favorite book:  The Billion Dollar Bet,  Bob Johnson

Advice:  the first advice I would give folks is, is to go to our unity, go to black folks camp too, and go to our Unity blaze map and find campgrounds that are on our map that are actually there. Those folks are truly invited and welcoming you to camp at their campground.

I would also say to know before you go. Do as much research as you can. You have these devices now, and you have so many YouTube channels and things of that nature to learn about camping.

Follow up with Earl: earl@blackfolkscamptoo.com

Black Folks Camp Too

Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Be sure to visit our website, rick saes.com. You'll find show notes and links to everything we talked about and more. And while you're at it, if you found value in this show, give us a rating on Apple Podcast or spread the word and tell a friend.

That would really help us out too. We should tune in every week. Thanks again for listening to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast.

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #Black Folks Camp Too, #Earl Hunter, #diversity in the outdoors, #Appalachian State, #Unity Blaze, #outdoor industry, #inclusion, #Unity Blaze partners, #outdoor community, #backpacking, #state parks, #Oboz Footwear, #Spacious Skies Campgrounds, #outdoor lifestyle, #RV camping, #outdoor participation, #unity in outdoors, #generational transfer, #environmental stewardship.

Making Impact Products Affordable: "So we had margins that were acceptable in retail and that enabled us to reduce the margins to get those lights and power banks to people that needed them at localized pricing"

Show Notes

WHAT HAPPENED:
I'll never forget the time I heard that our solar lanterns helped two warring factions in rural Africa literally bury the hatchet. They were both receiving our lights through an NGO, and suddenly, they were doing business together. That's not a metaphor. That's real.

Or the 10-year-old from the South Side of Chicago who handed out tens of thousands of "blessing bags" with our lights to the homeless—just because he believed no one should be left in the dark. That kind of story? It wrecks you—in the best way.

We built a business from the ground up, armed with 25 patents, a "why not both?" mindset of profit and purpose, and a deep belief that a single light could spark something bigger.

PRINCIPLE:
You don't need to choose between making money and making a difference. In fact, if you're doing it right, one fuels the other.

Too many founders think they have to "wait" until they've made it to give back. That impact comes after the profit.

Nope. Real impact is baked in from day one. When your mission is woven into your product, not just your marketing, you don't need to convince people—it resonates on its own.

TRANSITION (external problem):
But here's the kicker: a lot of us get stuck playing small because we think impact means complexity. Or we're waiting for the "right" time, the perfect investor, the green light.

And while we're waiting, other people are slapping together knockoff versions of our ideas and flooding the market with cheap stuff. Sound familiar?

We think we need permission to start building something that truly helps people.

THAT'S WHY:
That's why I sat down with John Inger on this week's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast—because his story is proof that doing good and doing well isn't an either/or.

This isn't just about lights and patents. It's about building trust, leading with purpose, and designing products that matter—even if you're just a team of 25 going up against big-budget giants.

CALL TO ACTION:
If you're tired of building things that look good but don't do good, this episode will remind you why you started. Tune in now and rediscover how the smallest product can spark massive change.

Website: www.havenlantern.com     Account   Address     Handle     Instagram https://www.instagram.com/haven.lantern/       @haven.lantern       LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/company/havenlantern/       HAVEN Lantern       FaceBook   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578361602034       HAVEN Lantern       TikTok   https://www.tiktok.com/@haven_lantern       HAVEN Lantern    

 

Today on The Outdoor Biz Podcast I'm talking with Travel Writer Jessica Poitevien. Jessica says that storytelling has always been her passion. Whether she's reviewing a new hotel, diving deep into little-known destinations or helping a travel brand tell their story, she does it all with the hopes of inspiring others to explore this beautiful world.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

04:54 Jessica Started a travel blog in Spain, burned out, and freelance writing led to a travel job.

08:38 Stories have a purpose - entertaining vs. informative.

10:24 Knowing your limitations as a travel writer as a travel writer, and using local expertise.

14:51 I remember I went on a press trip once, and I was on an assignment to write about this resort.

It was not my type of vacation; others loved it, considering the target audience.

17:32 Style depends on story, some for issue-solving, a personal experience, expert advice, lists of things, etc.

20:39 Editors are flexible about travel stories.

29:13 Find time to create. It's challenging, but I must sit down and write or walk to gather thoughts.

30:29 Connected with ATTA through colleague Amanda Castleman, co-teaching, travel writing, pitching, recommended for ATTA events.

34:49 Jessica's advice for getting into travel writing: Start with what you know, writing about familiar places first.

38:48 AI and technology may handle basic writing, leaving space for genuine storytelling.

Jessicas Favorite Book: The Alchemist

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

You can follow Jessica on her LinkedIn page and on her website, She Dreams of Travel.

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#travel writer, #storytelling, #travel blogging, #travel industry, #travel experiences, #tourism board trips, #travel writing, #outdoor storytelling, #camping, #Sahara Desert, #freelance opportunities, #journalism, #travel blog

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

In this episode of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, we wrap up our series on adventure travel with Shannon Stowell. Shannon leads the ATTA as CEO after re-starting the organization in 2004 pursuing the vision that it could be a powerful force for good in the tourism industry.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

00:00 ATTA Started small, took over, expanded worldwide later.

06:30 Networking, events, and travel fill our days.

16:13 High level consulting for destination events, like Panama.

18:40 Developing international adventure travel guide standards for sustainability.

24:36 Sustainability is crucial for adventure travel, combatting overuse.

30:59 An Iraq trip to an ancient monastery was impactful.

37:11 Rick was on a trip with Cindy from Changes in Latitude. Our Guide, Ecka, led a fantastic trek along the Caucasus Mtns near the Russian border.

39:31 Adventure Travel helps in preserving local heritage and pride through cultural expression.

48:45 Industry is evolving towards sustainability, responsible practices emphasized.

52:46 Friends made a tough decision about an event in Jordan.

55:44 Big crowd, positive feedback, hope for Jordan.

01:02:26 Outdoor Biz Podcast: Subscribe, rate, spread word.

ATTA Partners

ATTA Event Calendar

Follow up with Shannon:

Linkedin

ATTA website

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 439 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today, I'm talking with Bob Wohlers of Off-Road Safety Academy; Bob is, first and foremost, an outdoor adventurer. Simply put, he's a "surf and turf" kind of guy. Regarding the "surf" aspect, for 32 years Bob created curricula and invented training methodologies for PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. For the "turf" aspect, Bob has been an avid off-roader his entire life. He knows the "zen" and "fine art" of safe and environmentally responsible off-road driving."

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

00:00 Transitioned from teaching to recreational scuba, then worked on curriculum and elearning for PADI's team.

07:18 Drove on unfinished highway in Baja while taking naps, went diving in Sea of Cortez, got into off roading and bought own off road vehicle.

10:33 Enthusiastic about off-roading courses, found value in learning and eager to improve skills.

17:40 The speaker discusses the importance of managing injuries and illnesses in the field, highlighting the necessity of a wilderness first aid kit and an AED (automated external defibrillator) for tours and training courses. They stress the significance of being prepared for medical emergencies to ensure the safety of participants.

24:08 Three rangers died in a tragic accident, one of whom was driving without 4-wheel drive knowledge, leading to a rollover in Mohave National Preserve. The vehicle was displayed at the park headquarters as a reminder of the dangers of four-wheeling.

30:02 Overlanding tours require 4WD vehicles for camping at various sites each night before sundown. The tours prioritize getting to camp early for dinner, and there are always interesting activities.

36:05 It's essential for permitted outfitters to adhere to guidelines in backcountry tours to preserve the environment and maintain their permits, as not doing so could result in significant repercussions and damage their reputation in the industry.

36:38 Bob is deeply committed to promoting environmental ethics and sustainability through his work as a master tread trainer for Tread Lightly. He emphasizes responsible off-roading and leaving campsites cleaner than they were found.

43:30 Hybrid vehicles provide extended range with both battery and internal combustion engines. Toyota is showing interest in hydrogen engines, such as their new v eight hydrogen engine, using hydrogen as an alternative to traditional fuels like gasoline or diesel. This approach aims to create an electric vehicle that runs on hydrogen directly, rather than converting it to electricity.

48:34 Praising Starlink tours with OBD 2 connector for diagnosing check engine light, but limited by the type of connector.

57:14 Not all Jeeps are great on the highway; consider your specific needs and usage before purchasing a vehicle.

58:16 Desire to shift focus to off-road safety training and build a professional association for training instructors in the industry, inspired by witnessing the success of a similar association in scuba diving.

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

You can follow Bob on LinkedIn and at Off-Road Safety Academy.

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#check engine light, #off-road training, #overlanding, #personal locator beacon, #environmental responsibility, #sustainability, #rock crawling, #overland tours, #East Mohave track, #off-road gear, #navigation tools, #GPS, #Starlink Gen 3, #Off Road Safety Academy, #Off Road Training Association (ORDA), #wilderness first aid, #VW dune buggy, #Chevy Blazer

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

In this episode of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, we dive into the world of adventure travel with Michael Hodgson and Therese Iknoian from HI Travel Tales. Therese and Michael share their many adventures with us and how HI Travel Tales came to life!

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

00:00 Podcast series explores thrilling adventure travel journeys and shares captivating stories from guides, outfitters, and destinations. It ignites wanderlust and inspires outdoor adventures.

07:45 Studying in Germany had a profound impact, broadening the individual's perspective on life and travel, as the experience of living in a different culture opened their eyes to the big world and the multitude of wonderful experiences it offers. This influenced their understanding of how cultures and people interact to shape the reality we experience, ultimately leading to a much broader perspective on life and travel.

10:38 Therese's Italy visit, amazed by David statue's impact on her perception of art.

19:06 Michael discusses the transition from writing creatively to incorporating journalism and SEO keywords. They express a realization that personal experiences and deeper connections resonate most with readers. They emphasize the importance of telling stories in a unique, non-traditional way to create reader engagement.

25:17 Michael discusses his interest in AI for research, mentioning their upcoming panel at a travel writers' conference and their use of AI for story ideas. They express both fascination and unease with AI's capabilities, sharing an anecdote about using it to generate a specific request.

26:38 A program can generate requested photos, but the accuracy may not always be guaranteed, as real-life details may be overlooked.

33:12 Success in content creation can be achieved by focusing on a niche audience rather than trying to appeal to everyone. It references the concept of "1,000 True Fans" by Kevin Kelly, who argues that having 1,000 dedicated supporters who consistently pay for your content can lead to a sustainable income. The text suggests that creators don't need to have a broad following to thrive in today's world.

39:59 People value authenticity, but the shallowness of social media leads to a focus on superficial qualities like aesthetics and follower count. The obsession with Instagram-friendly content and the game of gaining and losing followers eclipses genuine engagement.

46:59 To succeed in the outdoor and travel media industry, one must be prepared to take on a variety of tasks, from writing and photography to working for destinations. It's a multifaceted world that requires perseverance, while staying true to oneself is also crucial.

50:03 Giving away content for free diminishes its value and affects the ability to sustain a livelihood in travel writing. This parallels the decline of newspapers when they offered online content for free, leading to current expectations of free access. Diluting quality for free offerings may hinder future opportunities in the travel writing business.

54:06 Experienced influencers emphasize unique, detailed content creation and collaboration, prioritizing involvement and avoiding generic itineraries. Their approach stands out in the travel industry.

01:00:07 In group settings, time is limited for in-depth questions. It's better to keep your best questions to yourself and ask them later to avoid sharing valuable information with everyone else.

01:05:31 Michael always brings his inflatable camp pillow on trips for comfort and support because he finds pillows at accommodations uncomfortable.

01:14:26 The text emphasizes the importance of correctly spelling "high travel tails" for easy Google search results. It also mentions the authors' individual Instagram accounts and encourages subscribers and followers.

01:15:52 The Outdoor Biz Podcast with Rick Saez thanks listeners for tuning in and encourages them to visit the website for show notes and to subscribe and share the podcast.

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

You can learn more about HI Travel Tales and Michael & Therese HERE

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Adventure travel, #HI Travel Tales, #Photography, #Travel Writing, #Outdoor experiences, #Adventure gear, #Backpacking, #Adventure Travel Destinations, #Responsible travel

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

Hey everyone, Welcome to Episode 437 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I'm talking with Chez Chesak. Chez is an award-winning adventure travel writer and 20+ year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. He is also Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America. 

Show Notes

06:13 Frequent travel for work, including long trips to Australia and South Africa, led to amazing opportunities but strained family life. Looking forward to finally bringing family to these places.

08:33 Chez highlights the irony of spending excessive time indoors managing communication, social media, and engaging with the board and members. They also mention creating job opportunities for members through posting positions and communicating about awards.

11:35 Chez talks about Looking forward to the upcoming July event in Johnson City, Tennessee, with vetted outdoor media, regional tourism boards, and brands networking. The event will feature a marketplace for networking, city tours, and professional development, offering abundant networking opportunities in the beautiful Tennessee location.

13:17 Navigating the evolving media landscape involves supporting various content creators to boost their careers.

18:18 Podcasting growth potential in outdoor space and its ability to reach people 24/7.

20:28 Chez explains maintaining the importance of OWAA's welcoming environment for new members while embracing the tight-knit community is a great challenge. It's important to ensure new members feel included and connected when joining events like Fieldfast or the conference.

24:51 Encouraging young people with a passion for the outdoors and storytelling to join OWAA for resources and career support, including opportunities for those just starting out or making a career change.

26:18 OWAA offers fellowships to support the development of outdoor storytellers, and also provides a $30 student membership, available to undergraduate and graduate students from any school.

31:13 Discovering healing stories through yoga for veterans while facing challenges with traditional media outlets. An article about yoga for vets led to learning about the healing effects of yoga on veterans, including personal experiences with a medic.

33:58 Emphasizes the importance of consistent effort and perseverance in building one's skills and career. Stressing the value of continually refining one's craft, the speaker highlights the power of regular, persistent action in achieving recognition and opportunities.

36:40 Excited for organizational growth after focusing on internal improvements and reinventing processes with board and volunteers.

41:31 Chez is passionate about military history and acknowledges a lack of diversity in their reading habits. He tries to read other genres, particularly classics, and is reintroduced to them through a teen in the house. He is currently rereading "The Bureau of Ungentlemanly Warfare" in preparation for the upcoming movie adaptation.

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

You can follow Chez at Chez Connects

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Outdoor Writers Association of America, #OWA, #outdoor storytelling, #diversity and inclusion, #outdoor industry, #content creation, #career development, #award-winning adventure, #outdoor media, #podcasting, #traditional writers, #professional development, #media professionals, #social media influencers, #bloggers, #traditional print journalists, #storytelling, #tourism boards

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and, outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

In this episode of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, we dive into the world of adventure travel with industry pioneers, Steve and Nona Barker. Join us as we explore the origins of their iconic travel gear brand, Eagle Creek, and their journey in shaping the adventure travel market.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

03:28 They agreed, and through an outdoor skills course, I got to know Nona for the first time.

08:53 The conversation covers early challenges in finance and distribution, specifically the tough nature of distribution. There is also a mention of whether the distribution was regional or national, with reference to Oshman's being in a few malls back in the day.

13:02 Struggles in the beginning, but success followed. Feedback from customers through retail stores was instrumental in achieving success.

16:09 Adventure travel caters to active, diverse customers by offering outdoor activities such as trekking, backpacking, skiing, and surfing in different locations worldwide, appealing to a wide range of interests and preferences.

17:53 In the 90s, Eagle Creek was involved in teaching retailers about adventure travel gear, while also selling the travel gear dealer program. It took some time for the retailers to catch on to the concept.

21:07 Passionate involvement in conservation, frustration over limited global funding for non-North American regions. Started The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund.

24:30 Focusing on responsible travel, minimizing impact, and community support.

29:01 Amplify local voices, elevate to leadership positions.

31:02 Service providers must balance meeting consumer demands for various travel experiences with the need to educate travelers on sustainable practices and ensure the conservation of natural resources and protection of local communities.

36:31 Thanks for joining the Outdoor Biz Podcast! Visit our website for more information and don't forget to subscribe and spread the word. Your support means a lot!

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

To learn more about them at the ATCF   

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Adventure travel, #Eagle Creek, #Travel gear, #Retail, Distribution, #Marketing, #Conservation, #Sustainability, #Outdoor experiences, #Adventure gear, #Backpacking, #Adventure travel destinations, #Brand history, #Travel business, #Conservation fund, #Responsible travel

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Today I'm talking with Barry McGeough. Barry is an applied innovation Fortune 500 leader, delivering high-impact solutions to global multi-brand verticals that drive exponential growth to some of the world's most iconic brands.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

00:00 Friend's 60th birthday boat trip to Channel Islands, cooking as camp cook after returning from China.

06:31 Discusses innovating for brands through athlete-driven ideas.

11:32 AI relies on large language models to learn and improve, needing constant updates and access to vast amounts of data.

20:58 Proposing garment recycling for polyester energy.

23:07 Companies face sustainability legislation and extended producer responsibility acts globally e.g. EU, New York, California, and France.

29:37 Used shoe recycling process lowers costs, reduces landfill waste.

36:25 Volunteered for education-focused NGO in Vietnam, aiming to uplift rural children through STEM education to attend university.

38:02 Organization supports Vietnamese education and leadership in Vietnam and the US.

46:05 Emphasis on applied innovation, connection to core business, and leveraging influence without P&L ownership.

52:16 Collaborating to ensure footwear quality and suitability for purpose during commercialization.

53:42 Barry supports startups and advises them to be honest and straightforward.

58:28 Data is collected from ambient sources, like location and environment, and used to create a detailed picture of activities and trends.

01:06:55 Recommend resources: a16z newsletter, TLDR Newsletter, MIT Technology Review, Harvard Business Review, McKinsey for trend insights.

01:11:38 Society has godlike capabilities but cavemanlike instincts, leading to the question of the human vs. the machine. The focus is on mental health and technology's impact on isolation.

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

Learn More

To learn more about Barry, you can find him on Linkedin

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#GDPR, #compliance, #circularity, #sustainability, #peer-to-peer resale, #innovation, #tech trends, #AI, #coding, #technology impact, #nature deficit disorder, #South by Southwest, #product development, #digital innovation, #machine learning, #adjacent industries, #sustainable growth, #apparel industry, #market dynamics, #outdoor industry, #innovation culture, #conservation, #sustainability efforts, #digital innovation, #brand growth

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to the Outdoor Biz Podcast Adventure Travel Series, where we embark on thrilling journeys and share captivating stories exploring the world of adventure travel. Join me as I share the stories of guides, outfitters, and destinations that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire your next great adventure. Whether it's scaling majestic peaks, diving into turquoise waters, We're traversing vast wilderness. We unveil the hidden gems that every outdoor enthusiast dreams of exploring.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Show Notes

00:00 Entrepreneur recounts excitement of starting river company.

06:19 Excited guides seek new adventure on Omo River.

11:47 Hidden creatures ambush and devour prey underwater.

16:43 Encountered naked tribes, photographed and shared images.

23:43 Started small, wrote, and grew into success.

26:42 Pioneering adventure travel company explores new frontiers.

41:04 Sustainable travel, small groups, local engagement emphasized.

43:37 Enjoying meeting locals and sharing meals worldwide.

49:15 Global adventure travel company survives through challenges.

58:32 First trip to Uganda, fascinated by exploration.

01:01:06 Couple explores Africa together, she becomes hero.

50:21 Books: I'm currently reading a novel called The Romantic by William Boyd; some memorable books are River of the Gods by Candace Millard, The Devil Drives, To the Heart of the Nile by Pat Shipman

49:46 Uganda article 

54:31:01 Favorite Gear under $100: Moleskine Notebook.

 

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

 

Learn More

To learn more about Richard, visit his website at: https://www.richardbangs.com/

and on these social sites

You Tube

Linkedin

Facebook

Instagram

 

You can find Mtn Travel Sobek here

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Textile waste, #Ethical sourcing, #Forever chemicals #PFAS #Environmental impact #Environmental regulations #Publishing process #Speciesism #Outdoor Minimalist book #Podcast creation #Conservationists

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Hey everyone, Welcome to Episode 433 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with outdoor writer and podcaster Meg Carney. Meg is an outdoor and environmental writer with a passion for environmental advocacy. She primarily covers topics within the outdoor industry ranging from the best new products and greenwashing to the scientific coverups of hazardous chemicals. And if you're not listening to her series on Forever Chemicals released on March 4th . . . get on that . . . it's a MUST listen. Meg is dropping New episodes every Monday through April.

Welcome to Episode 433 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with outdoor writer and podcaster Meg Carney.

Meg is an outdoor and environmental writer with a passion for environmental advocacy. She primarily covers topics within the outdoor industry ranging from the best new products and greenwashing to the scientific coverups of hazardous chemicals. And if you're not listening to her series on Forever Chemicals released on March 4th . . . get on that . . . it's a MUST listen. Meg is dropping New episodes every Monday through April.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Show Notes

00:00 Grandfather's conservationist influence sparked environmental passion.

05:01 First article published led to freelance writing career.

08:16 The text discusses speciesism, the unequal treatment of different animal species. It uses the example of how dogs are often treated as human children, while pigs are seen as livestock, despite having similar intelligence. The discussion is presented in a fictional narrative.

10:10 Book focuses on consumer sustainability, lacks industry perspective.

14:21 Passionate about surprising complexity of textile industry.

16:43 Teflon pants are made using forever chemicals, known for their extreme durability and widespread use in water repellency. They gained attention through documentaries and have become a major topic in the outdoor industry.

22:53 Explored eastern US outdoor spaces during 5-month trip.

24:26 Minnesota van adventure with cozy warm nights and free camping experiences.

27:41 Hiking, mud mishap in South Carolina.

29:24 Favorite Outdoor Activity: Gravel Biking and I love any of the jouring activities, ski jouring, bike jouring anything that can allow me to recreate with my dogs.

32:24 Buying less reduces environmental impact and waste. Textiles are particularly difficult to reuse and recycle efficiently, so making products last longer is crucial. Applying waterproofing to extend the life of clothing is a sustainable practice.

35:10 Lava Linens, a Woman-founded company offers efficient, compact travel towels.

37:19 Meg's Favorite Book: The Monkey Wrench Gang, Desert Solitaire, Ed Abbey's Essays, Megs Book Outdoor Minimalist

38:32 Doug Peacock and environmental conservation. OD Biz Episode 326

 

Thanks for listening and visiting our website. Don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

 

Learn More

To learn more about Meg, visit her website at: outdoorminimalist.com

You can also visit Meg on these social sites:

Facebook

Linkedin

Instagram

YouTube

Pinterest

Anchorfm

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We love likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Textile waste, #Ethical sourcing, #Forever chemicals #PFAS #Environmental impact #Environmental regulations #Publishing process #Speciesism #Outdoor Minimalist book #Podcast creation #Conservationists

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Today I'm talking with MXXY co-founder Drew Dawson. MXXY was born on the trails of Marin County, California. Growing up there Drew and co-founder Nicloa Beglum spent their days hiking, biking and running. Electrolytes played a big role in helping them feel and perform their best but fumbling with extra bottles was a distraction, and reservoirs left a gunky mess to clean when they got home. The technology didn't exist to solve that so they created it. Today, Drew and I talk about that and plenty more.

If you write as much as I do, it's nice to have a little backup with spelling and grammar, and I use Grammarly. Grammarly is a cloud-based typing assistant. It reviews spelling, punctuation, clarity, engagement, and delivery mistakes, detects plagiarism, and suggests replacements for the identified errors. It also allows users to customize their style, tone, and context-specific language.

Their instant grammar checker corrects all grammar errors and enhances your writing.

To try it out, go to ricksaez dot com slash grammarcheck and get signed up today. You can thank me later. That's Ricksaez dot com slash grammar check.

https://ricksaez.com/grammarcheck Show Notes

04:14 Founding company, bonding with biking community.

08:09 Discovering electrolytes; the neon fluid phenomenon.

11:12 Innovative water system with effective cleaning solutions.

15:17 Learning from selling minimum viable product critical.

16:57 Passion for building physical products drove success.

22:21 Life is a constant ebb and flow.

31:23 Modular system with detachable and replaceable parts.

33:17 Embracing challenges leads to personal growth.

37:17 Fan of YETI's founders and brand.

39:47 Validate your business idea with data first.

43:52 Building anything is valuable in business.

Learn More

To learn more about Drew and MXXY, visit their website at: https://gomxxy.com/

You can also visit MXXY on these social sites:

Facebook

Linkedin

Instagram

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Product Design #Validation #Product Concept #Data Validation #Investment #Building a Business #Product Validation #Luck vs. Process #Product Improvement  #Kickstarter

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

 Today I'm speaking with Seth Quig. Seth is a seasoned outdoor professional with over two decades of experience in outdoor education and international adventure travel.

Facebook   Twitter   Instagram

Love the show? Subscribe,  rate, review, and share!

I didn't pay rent for nearly 10 years.

Seriously. I was either crashing in guard houses, sleeping in a tent, or living out of my truck between Idaho and Baja. Some might call it dirtbagging—I call it my MBA in life.

Back then, my "home" was wherever the river ran or the mountain rose. I wasn't building a business. I wasn't even thinking about one. I was chasing adventure, guiding people through whitewater and Himalayan passes.

But somewhere between the third trip up Kilimanjaro and watching bulldozers drop boulders into a rapid I was about to run… I realized something.

Adventure wasn't the goal.
It was the vehicle.

A vehicle for connection. For transformation. For pushing people out of comfort and into character.

PRINCIPLE:

If you want to create something meaningful in the outdoor industry—or in life—you've got to stop thinking of adventure as the destination. It's the doorway. The best guides (and entrepreneurs) don't just lead people outside. They lead them into themselves.

And to do that, you don't need perfect branding or a 10-step funnel. You need to understand people, risk, fear, group dynamics—and how to hold space when someone's terrified of peeing in a Porta-Potty.

TRANSITION:

But most aspiring adventure entrepreneurs never make it to that level.

They get stuck thinking passion is enough. That loving nature or guiding people qualifies you to build a sustainable business. But loving rivers doesn't teach you finance. Running the Inca Trail doesn't show you how to manage a team, onboard a client, or navigate a cultural crisis in Kathmandu.

So what happens?
Burnout. Disconnection. Businesses that are all sizzle, no soul.

THAT'S WHY:

That's why this episode with Seth Quig isn't just about whitewater and trekking tales. It's a masterclass in what it really takes to make a living in adventure travel today. We're talking risk, realism, radical honesty—and how to build a business that doesn't just profit, but gives back.

CALL TO ACTION:

Tired of feeling like your passion for the outdoors isn't enough to build the career you want? That's because it isn't—not without the right mindset and mentorship. Discover what most outdoor pros get wrong and how to flip the script. Listen to this episode now and find the trailhead to a better business.

🎧 Click here to listen to the episode

Follow Seth

Linkedin

Facebook

Karuna Project

Instagram

This week I'm talking with Rachel Gross, an environmental and cultural historian of the modern U. S. and an assistant professor of history at the University of Colorado Denver. Among many accolades and experiences, Rachel was a Carson Fellow at the Rachel Carson Center in Munich and, for her doctoral research, wrote about the history of outdoor clothing and gear in the U.S. from the Civil War to the present. Her book is: Shopping All the Way to the Woods: How the Outdoor Industry Sold Nature to America

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

If you write as much as I do, it's nice to have a little backup with spelling and grammar, and I use Grammarly. Grammarly is a cloud-based typing assistant. It reviews spelling, punctuation, clarity, engagement, and delivery mistakes, detects plagiarism, and suggests replacements for the identified errors. It also allows users to customize their style, tone, and context-specific language.

Their instant grammar checker corrects all grammar errors and enhances your writing.

To try it out, go to ricksaez dot com slash grammarcheck and get signed up today. You can thank me later. That's Ricksaez dot com slash grammar check.

https://ricksaez.com/grammarcheck Show Notes

00:00 Shifted from outdoor pursuits to writing about them professionally.

04:46 Global scholars gather at Munich's Rachel Carson Center.

09:58 Early guidebooks promoted self-reliance in the outdoors, discouraging buying equipment and emphasizing the Woodcraft ethic of creating makeshift arrangements from natural materials.

11:15 Early white guidebook authors claim close Native American ties to validate their information sources. They emphasize their relationship with Native Americans as a way of asserting the authenticity of their knowledge. Their focus on white settlers' connections to the Native American past is reflected in the stories of native peoples being displaced from national parks in the early 20th century, which are recurrent themes in their publications.

15:35 Book delves into paradox of outdoor consumerism, exploring its history and impact on American attitudes towards nature.

18:23 Consumer identity linked to fancy cooking gadgets. Participation.

22:06 Outdoor industry leads in photography and sustainability.

24:56 Experts doubt Patagonia's sincerity in anti-consumerism ad.

29:14 "Ski Style" by Annie Gilbert Coleman is a recommended book that explores the culture and evolution of skiing in the 20th century. It provides insights into how skiing has become associated with specific social classes, economic accessibility, and the development of ski resorts and attire. The book encourages readers to critically evaluate the origins and evolution of this popular recreational activity.

32:21 Encouraging introspection on consumerism's values and influence. Reflecting on personal choices and societal impact.

33:46 Researcher finds value in personal stories for understanding.

Learn More

To learn more about Rachel and her work, visit her website at: https://rachel-gross.com/

You can also visit Rachel on these social sites:

Facebook

X

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#outdoor gear, #history of camping, #outdoor industry, #research, #cultural history, #environmental history, #environmental sustainability, #consumerism, #American outdoor identity, #consumer behavior, #product design, #sustainability initiatives

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Today, I'm talking with endurance athlete Nadia Ruiz. I met Nadia at The Running Event in Austin last year. Nadia is a personal coach, the youngest female to finish 100 marathons, and has completed over 650 races around the globe. We talk about her love for running, the various events she has run, her coaching activities, and more.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

00:00 Inspired by Ironman race, dreamed of participating someday.

03:34 Expensive, equipment-heavy triathlon; initially aimed for marathon. Discovered LA Marathon.

09:17 During the COVID pandemic, to pass the time, I created lists of my top 10 favorite trail marathons, international races, and US marathons. I have participated in over 650 races across the globe in the past 26 years, finding great joy in the people I met, the sights I saw, and the food I enjoyed. The experience of racing frequently has allowed me to connect with others who share the same passion. The first race I ever did holds a special place in my heart, as it made me feel invincible.

13:08 Ecuadorian heritage fuels passion for trail running.

17:05 I fit running into my schedule whenever possible, whether it's during lunch or in the morning or evening. It's not a chore for me, and I've been running for 26 years.

22:19 Success begins with small, consistent steps taken daily. It's important to remember that even the best athletes had to start with that first challenging step.

23:23 Favorite Piece of Running gear: Trekking poles and Micro-spikes

24:09 Favorite Books: Champion Mindset, Running Your First Ultra: Customizable Training Plans for Your First 50K to 100-Mile Race: New Edition with Write-In Training Journal

25:30 I'm open to help, don't hesitate to connect

Learn More

You can follow up with Nadia here:

Links

nadiacruiz@yahoo.com

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#endurancecoaching, #running, #triathlon, #strengthtraining, #mobility, #aging, #recovery, #snowboarding, #swimming, #cycling, #cross-country, #dog-training, #running gear, #outdoor gear, #ultra running, #trail running, #marathon, #Ironman, #LA marathon, #event marketing, #education, #cross training, #triathlons, #Inca Trail marathon, #racing experience, #outdoor industry, #event production

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 429 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I'm talking with Mark Holyoak, Director of Communication at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Mark has been in the communications business for 35 years. He spent the first 24 years as a television broadcast journalist in Kansas, Washington and Montana. In 2012, he accepted the position of director of communication at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, where he oversees Bugle magazine, produces written and digital content, creates video scripts, and is responsible for all internal and external communications. He likes to hunt, fly fish, hike, play softball, basketball, and hockey, and ride his mountain unicycle with his kids.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Show Notes

• 00:00 As a child in the 70s and 80s, I spent most of my time outside, exploring the creek bottoms, catching crawdads, fishing, and playing with friends. It was a carefree time when we would leave the house in the morning and only return when it was dark. I have fond memories of hiking, skipping rocks, and playing with critters - typical kid stuff, really.
• 04:41 Fond memories of hunting with parents in Utah.
• 07:04 Bonding through outdoor activities, father and son.
• 11:11 Transitioned from news anchor to public relations director.
• 15:21 Father, a petroleum geologist, inspired deep love for profession.
• 17:12 Gaining factory work experience, learning from veterans.
• 19:31 Elk organization's efforts support wildlife and habitat conservation through fundraising and projects like forest thinning and prescribed burns.
• 24:34 Preserving land for public hunting and fishing access.
• 27:16 Addressing environmental and animal rights movements is crucial. These movements pose challenges such as limiting fishing and public access. Professional wildlife managers and biologists are essential for informed decision-making.
• 30:41 Hunting expeditions with family and friends in the mountains, seeking elk but not always successful, while also feeling excited about introducing the activity to a grandson and an unexpected interest from an older daughter.
• 33:24 Take decisive action and create opportunities.
• 37:47 I Considered buying various fly fishing bait colors.
• 39:29 Manages Elk Foundation publication staff and media monitoring.
• 44:04 Conserved 72,000 acres, opened access to 78,000. Large easement in Kentucky for public access.
• 36:52 What's one or two of your favorite books? I'm not really a book reader. I'm more of an online article reader. RMEF's Bugle Magazine. Although I do like John Grisham, I'll say that.
• 34:34 Favorite piece of Outdoor Gear under $100: So I really like fly fish. I buy the materials, and I tie my own flies. I really enjoy that. And so I came across my wife's embroidery thread. She had Orange for October caddises and olive green for olive caddises and black and yellow for really vibrant, for just Adam's flies or just all sorts of everything. And so I didn't purchase it. I'm like, Hey, when's the last time you did any of this? Oh, I don't really do that anymore. I'm going to take this bag, it has all these different colors in it. So it wasn't a purchase. It was more of just a pilfering. Right. And, but that's what I use. I mean, you can obviously go and get different types of materials from Sportsman's Warehouse or Cabela's or wherever you shop and make your own bodies. But I'm telling you that embroidery stuff works great

Learn More

To learn more about Mark and The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, visit their website at: https://www.rmef.org/

You can also visit The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation on these social sites:

YouTube

Facebook

X

Instagram

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, #Elk hunting, #Conservation, #Advocacy, #Land conservation, #Access projects, #Habitat enhancement, #Wildlife overpass crossings, #Outdoor industry, #Wildlife management, #Outdoor excursions, #Family activities, #Volunteer projects, #BLM, #Forest service, #Highway wildlife migration, #Fly fishing, #Hunting skills, #Television broadcast journalist.

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 428 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Mari Bodensteiner and Space Trailers. Mari grew up on the backwaters of the upper Mississippi. She is an avid hiker and amateur angler. Before her career in marketing, she taught English and Rhetoric at several universities across the country. Additionally, she contracted with the State Department to develop international educational programs in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. She currently works to grow the SPACE Trailers brand and is most inspired by the passionate consumers that she gets to interact with each day.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Show Notes

• 00:00 The individual discusses their transition from teaching to a marketing role, emphasizing the influence of lifelong learning from education on shaping their career path. They note a connection between teaching rhetoric at the university level and their current role as a marketing director, highlighting how the communication principles they taught, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, directly translates to marketing messaging.
• 04:15 Chris and Rich have collaborated for over 30 years in manufacturing and entrepreneurship. They have a strong background in manufacturing and have successfully built numerous companies together. They recently acquired a company called space trailers from two eccentric brothers in Minnesota, and are now working with their family in this dynamic.
• 07:37 Families are enjoying the convenience and excitement of cross country road trips with compact trailers, freeing up extra space in their jam-packed vehicles for bikes and kayaks. There has been a surge in the shipping of these trailers, which are compact and lightweight, and can be stored vertically for easy delivery. This increase in demand for trailers is attributed to the transition back to a hybrid workplace or less flexibility in work arrangements.
• 10:03 Choose between a high rider and a low rider based on preference, considering the hitch height for vehicles like vans and Jeeps. In 2023, a new high rider XL was introduced, offering 20% more space, higher sides, a heavier axle, and additional wells for carrying more gear. This new trailer received positive feedback for its increased capacity, prompting requests for even higher sides.
• 15:21 At trade shows, we actively engage with consumers by encouraging them to visit our booth, share their experiences, and connect with us on social media. We also refer them to relevant consumer-driven social media groups for quick answers to their questions and concerns.
• 17:21 Enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and angling. Described the pleasant location on the Mississippi River and the bluffs, and mentioned the lack of snow and mild winter weather. Shared an experience of doing a polar plunge in Northern Wisconsin over the new year due to the absence of ice, usually used for fishing.
• 21:05 Customers express a strong affection for the brand, noting its unique appeal in the form of the substantial number of follow-up pictures they send. They derive a sense of pride and ownership from assembling the product, particularly appreciating the feature of the removable canopy. The process of putting it on for the first time and being able to take it off and on as needed evokes a feeling of accomplishment for them. Moreover, they find joy in sharing their experiences of traveling with the product, often showcasing the initial location they take it to. This not only offers a rewarding experience for the customers but also adds a layer of fun and connection for the brand.
• 25:43 The text emphasizes the importance of community-building for achieving success, drawing on Malcolm Gladwell's ideas about talent and success. It highlights the shift from solely focusing on talent to recognizing the significance of community, both internally among coworkers and externally through networking with other brands and brand partnerships. This approach extends to engaging with consumers and emphasizes that success is not just about making sales but also about nurturing a strong community within the business.
• 26:29 Encourages connecting and sharing ideas through social media, website, or email, emphasizing the presence of a person behind digital interactions. Expresses a strong desire to connect and engage with marketers, consumers, and developers to share and grow ideas.
• 17:44 Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks with a product idea to get it into production? Yeah, I think there are so many great ideas out there and to build something is easy, but then to reproduce it again and again and again.So we, we've got a really strong build process and making sure every trailer is exactly the same and. And being able to put those processes in place, um, that's, you know, the, the ideas and the building are the fun part, but making sure that like process and documentation and kind of quality control in a sense are there.
• 21:29 What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100?I really love Minus 33 Socks, and then compression socks, the CEP, I think it's CEP compression socks.
• 23:22 How about some of your favorite books? Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss

Learn More

To learn more about Mari and Space Trailers, visit their website at: https://spacetrailers.com/

You can also visit Space Trailers on these social sites:

YouTube

Linkedin

Facebook

Instagram

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Space Trailers, #Red Wing, Minnesota, #trailers, #customization, #outdoor activities, #fishing, #marketing, #family business, #manufacturing, #community, #customer engagement, #product development, #outdoor industry, #outdoor gear, #swimming, #cold water, #Great Lakes, #Alcatraz swim, #base layers, #Smartwool socks, #compression socks, #off-road, #ATV hauling

Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

In this episode, Rick Saez welcomes Joe DiGirolamo, Director of Sales at insulation company Thermore. After sharing their early experiences with outdoor activities and their current hobbies, they delve into the concept of plastic recycling for insulation production. They discuss the importance of adopting sustainability both in the manufacturing processes and everyday operations. Thermore's Ocean Down initiative, and the impact of our buying decisions on the environment. Joe illustrates these with his work in Thermore, particularly with the development of sustainable materials. He further urges listeners to make conscious, wise choices concerning consumption, especially when dealing with single-use plastics.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/outdoor-biz?ref_id=27053&utm_campaign=27053&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=Outdoor%2BBiz https://www.teepublic.com/stores/outdoor-biz?ref_id=27053&utm_campaign=27053&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=Outdoor%2BBiz   Show Notes Questions we Discussed

• Share your first outdoor experience with us? Camping, hiking, biking, what was it?
• How often do you get out to camp, hike, bike, etc, these days?
• Tell us a bit about Thermore, it's a family business founded in Italy?
• You've been with Thermore a long time. What were you doing before joining Theremore?
• Thermore has been driving sustainability since day one, where does that ethos come from?
• How has the process of developing sustainable materials evolved over the years?
• I don't know much about Ocean bound plastic, what can you share with us about that?
• How do you tweak the manufacturing to produce different insulation to fit different use cases? "blown" vs. "rolled for example.
• What are the best practices we, as consumers, can do to achieve the same goal?
• Tell us about Thermore's Ocean Down. Has it been widely embraced?
• What are some of your other initiatives to drive sustainability, both in manufacturing as well as day-to-day operations?
• Do you have a favorite activity or place to get outside?
• What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100?
• How about some of your favorite books?
• Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners?
• Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up (email, Twitter, Instagram, etc)?

Learn More

To learn more about Joe and Thermore, visit their website at: https://www.thermore.com

You can also visit Thermore on these social sites:

YouTube

Linkedin

Facebook

Instagram

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Thermore, #JoeDiGirolamo, #Milan, #innovation, #sustainability, #recycled technology, #product development, #ocean-bound plastic, #Southeast Asia, #manufacturing, #recycled fibers, #single-use plastics, #plastic pollution, #sustainable materials, #outdoor industry, #family-owned, #outdoor activities, #golf, #tennis, #climate change, #environmental awareness

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Hey everyone, welcome to Episode 426 with Tom Dempsey, founder and CEO of SylvanSport and a highly regarded national leader in the outdoor industry for several decades. SylvanSport designs and manufactures innovative recreation vehicles and outdoor gear. In addition to SylvanSport, Dempsey has founded and led several other companies in the outdoor recreation industry and is the founding chairperson of the North Carolina Outdoor Recreation Coalition, a non-profit group that directs and supports the state's Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes Questions we Discussed

• Tell us about your first outdoor experience?
• How many times do you get out to camp, hike, etc, these days?
• Where does your love for industrial design come from?
• And what was your job at Coleman? It was your first outdoor job, right?
• You got into the kayak space when it was still relatively new. Are you a kayaker?
• What was it about adventure sports that inspired SlyvanSport?
• Tell us about the early days of Sylvan, is your first product still in the line?
• How do you find time to run the company and maintain the role of chief product designer?
• Sylvan also has a great company culture, can you share some of the things you do to maintain that?
• What is the Sylvan distribution network like, how many RV dealers are you in?
• Mountain Bridge Wilderness
• Are all your products sold in the US or are there any international distributors?
• Do you have a favorite place camp?
• How about a spot to get away for an hour or so and get some outdoor time during the week?
• Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks with a product idea to get it into production?
• What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100? Sylvan Sport WayLight
• How about some of your favorite books? Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
• And Tom has a special offer for our listeners . . . 20% off on gear (excludes their trailers). The code is:  outdoorbiz20
• Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners?
• Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up (email, Twitter, Instagram, etc)? tom@sylvansport.com
•  

Learn More

To learn more about Tom and SylvanSport, visit their website at: https://www.sylvansport.com/

You can also visit SylvanSport on these social sites:

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

Pinterest

X

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#camping, #outdoor activities, #industrial designer, #product production, #outdoor gear, #simplicity, #Sylvan Sport, #mountain bridge wilderness,  #trade show, #Boy Scouts, #paddling. #product designer, #Auburn University, #RV industry, e3ntry-level RV, #company culture, #leadership

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Julia Mitchell had a kernel of this idea she had been noodling on for a few years. She had had some "lightly used" fly fishing clothes that didn't fit her anymore and thought they would be perfect for another angler. Julia was working in a leadership role with United Women on the Fly, and also started a leadership role with a local fly fishing group where she met Temma Roby. After sharing her idea of breaking down barriers for women to enjoy fly fishing and providing used or donated gear and clothing Temma was on board with the mission. On August 5th, 2022 Rising to the Fly was born!

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

Rising to the Fly

00:00 Decided to expand fly fishing group nationwide, changed name to "Rising to the Fly."

04:15 Learned fly fishing in 1999, started with intro clinic, now passionate about it.

09:39 Idea stemmed from unused fishing shirts, expanded to include gear for exchange among women.

13:23 Partners with organizations, holds clinics & training for women.

15:02 Received campground donation for weekend, stocked pond, women caught fish, divided into smaller groups for activities.

18:48 Shop manager offered support, received products, plans to engage other Orvis shops.

21:02 Transformed garage into warehouse, repurposed hangers for inventory.

27:19 Tema and I reached out to other nonprofits for advice on donations and applications, providing helpful insights and support.

30:00 Excited about new lanyard, makes life easier outdoors.

35:16 Encourage website and social media visit, subscribe, and donate gear or money.

36:04 Seeking financial and gear support for shipping and donations. Accepting applications for gear. Seeking support from companies.

Learn More

To learn more about Julia, Temma, and Rising to the Fly, visit their website at: risingtothefly.com

You can also visit Rising to the Fly on these social sites:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Fly fishing, #Entomology, #Fishing gear, #Female anglers, #Fly fishing clinic, #Creek fishing, #Gear donations, #Fly fishing shops, #Outdoor industry, #Steelhead fishing, #Trinity River, #Poudre Creek, #Nonprofit organization, #Women in fly fishing, #Casting for Recovery, #Women-focused nonprofits, #Starting a nonprofit, #outdoor experience, #RickSaez #TheOutdoorBizPodcast #PodcastInterview #OWAA

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 424 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I'm speaking with PacAPit creator and Founder John Chadwell. The inspiration for PacAPit came from the idea of building a fire they could use while sitting in the water, a fire that people could gather around. They started in June of 2020, and after John developed the product and got a patent, they begin selling in October of 2021. They are in all 50 states and about 14 countries!

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes Overview

PacAPit

00:00 Invented COVID baby fire concept on river.

03:23 Texas grocery chain H E B founders started camp foundation in Hill Country; aims to preserve camping experience.

07:56 Considering outsourcing production to scale business, possibly outsourcing grill production to a stamping facility.

11:30 Looking for retailers in San Antonio and Spring Branch for outdoor gear and fire pits.

15:30 The PacAPit allows building fires on any surface, including snow and ice, for outdoor activities.

16:44 People crave campfire experience to gather and connect, improving social interaction.

20:41 Advice on iterating a product, seeking feedback, and protecting ideas.

23:31 Versatile tool, furniture development, long-term app goal for campfire storytelling.

24:45 What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100? Fiskar Hand Hatchet

26:01 Book emphasizes the importance of being willing to take chances.

27:32 Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks with a product idea to get it into production?

26:05 How about some of your favorite books? Here is New York, E.B. White, and A Whole New Mind, Daniel Pink.

YOU can get 15% off your PacAPit when you use CODE ODBIZ15 to purchase your PacAPit. Go to PacAPit.com, slash buy, and get yours today. That's 15% off with CODE ODBIZ15

Learn More

To learn more about John and PacAPit, visit their website at: PacAPit.com

You can also visit PacAPit on these social sites:

Instagram

Facebook

Email

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#John Chadwell, #PacAPit, #fire pits, #grills, #business ventures, #invention process, #manufacturing, #camping, #outdoor experience, #RickSaez #TheOutdoorBizPodcast #PodcastInterview #OWAA

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 423 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I'm speaking with Peter Arlein, Founder and CEO of mountainFLOW eco-wax. Peter has been in the Outdoor Industry for over 20 years working as a ski patroller and raft guide. In 2016 he started MountainFLOW eco-wax with a straightforward mission: provide a simple and eco-friendly way to improve the skiing experience. Their first product was a water-based anti-stick spray that reduced snow and ice buildup on top of skis. Located in Carbondale CO they've since added more ski bike products to the line.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes Questions we Discussed

• What was your first outdoor experience?

• tell us about the path from Biology and Neuroscience at Colby College to an MBA at the Business Intelligence and Data Analytics at the University of Alaska. before we get into ski wax what was the Seafood business like?

• and when did you first have the idea for eco-friendly ski wax?

• and it's made entirely from plants?

• what was the iteration process from raw paraffin to eco-friendly ski wax?

• how many non-stick pans and stove burners did you ruin?

• how big was the business when you went on Shark Tank?

• how did their investment help?

• Now you have plant-based water bottles, a bike maintenance kit, and recycled aluminum poles, what else are you working on that you can share with us?

• are all your products made in the US?

• do you sell to retailers?

• how often do you get to ski and ride?

• Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks with a product idea to get it into production?

• What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100? Solar-charged, battery-powered string lights.
• How about some of your favorite books? Flow-The Psychology of Optimal Experience
  by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi 

Learn More

To learn more about Peter and mountainFLOW eco-wax, visit their website at: mountainFLOW eco-wax

You can also visit Peter and mountainFLOW eco-wax on these social sites:

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#Peter Arlein #mountainFLOWeco-wax #colbycollege #outdoor-activities, #skiing, #biking, #eco-friendlyproducts, #entrepreneurship #RickSaez #TheOutdoorBizPodcast #PodcastInterview #OWAA

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Today, I'm speaking with entrepreneur, marketer, writer, and full-time traveler Samira Holma.

Samira helps brands and places lead the way in hospitality and the future of work improving and growing their impact with marketing that supports local communities.

In 2016, she turned her passions for marketing and travel into her lifestyle and became a full-time traveling marketing consultant & writer. She's been traveling non-stop, without a fixed base, ever since.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes Questions we Discussed

• Let's begin with
  
  • how were you inspired to travel the world?
  • where was your first trip to a new country
  • how about your first new continent?
  • what inspired you to get into marketing?
  • you have a Bachelor's in International Marketing from BI Norwegian School of Management how did you decide to go there?
  • your bio says you are an entrepreneur, marketer, writer, and full-time traveler, tell us about your work what do you do, and how do you keep up with everything while you're traveling?
  • how do you help destinations and brands upgrade and attract the right audience with strategies that boost local communities
  • which part of the business you are most passionate about?
  • tell us about your audience, what are a couple of their key demographics?
  • do you have an "our craziest adventure" story from all your travels?
  • Is there someplace you haven't been to yet that is high on your list?
  • what are a couple of your favorite outdoor activities you participate in?
  • do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks wanting to get into the travel biz
  • What is your favorite travel gear purchase under $100 A good Sleep Mask
  • do you have any favorite books or books you give as gifts? One that I keep Recommending and giving away as well is Effortless.
  • Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners

Learn More

To learn more about Samira and her work, visit her website at: samiraholma.com

You can also visit Samira on these social sites:

Instagram

Linkedin

Facebook

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#SamiraHolma #Remotework #Destination-management #Infrastructure-improvement #Full-time-travel #Destination-management #RickSaez #TheOutdoorBizPodcast #PodcastInterview #OWAA

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

I had a great conversation with Dr. Rachel Graham: Adventurer, scientist, and founder of MarAlliance. She's dedicated her life to protecting sharks, rays, & ocean wildlife by empowering local communities from Central America to Madagascar. Her story just might change how you see the sea. 

Brought to you this week by The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

Facebook   Twitter   Instagram

Love the show? Subscribe,  rate, review, and share!

Show Notes

WHAT HAPPENED:

There's this moment that I haven't stopped thinking about.

A woman — a local fisher, part of a coastal community — who had spent years measuring dead sharks, told Rachel Graham she had a dream. Not a big one by the world's standards. But big for her: she wanted to scuba dive.

There was just one problem:
She couldn't swim.

And another:
She was terrified of sharks.

But fast forward, and there she was. Certified. Scuba gear on. Underwater. Surrounded by the very creatures she once feared.

That's not just a story about overcoming fear. It's a story about the power of inviting people into the process, not just preaching at them.

And it changed her — and her community — forever.

PRINCIPLE:

People don't change because of data. They change because of connection.
You can't create a lasting impact by staying in the ivory tower. Real change happens when you bring people in. Let them be part of the discovery. Respect their knowledge. And build from there.

It's not about converting skeptics. It's about creating co-creators.

TRANSITION:

And yet, so many of us get stuck trying to do this work alone.

We've got big visions, but we're either siloed, overwhelmed, or convinced we're not "qualified enough" to lead. We think we need a perfect degree, a perfect plan, or permission to start.

We forget the truth:
The people who make the biggest difference? Often, you don't have the "right" resume. But they do have the right mindset: curiosity, commitment, and community.

THAT'S WHY:

That's why this episode with Rachel Graham isn't just about shark conservation.

It's about reimagining leadership, reframing "expertise," and rebuilding ecosystems — both ecological and human — from the ground up.

If you've ever felt like your dreams were too far out of reach, or your impact wasn't big enough… this one's going to shift you.

CALL TO ACTION:

If you've been quietly questioning your path or doubting your ability to make a difference, this episode is your permission slip. Get inspired by how Rachel built a global movement — one conversation (and one fish) at a time.
Website: https://maralliance.org/

Linkedin

Instagram

We're kicking off the year with a great conversation! Today, I'm speaking with The Brand Leader's Kyle Duford.  Kyle is an author, brander, speaker, and former writer for Outside, Men's Health, and Men's Journal. He's got a quiver full of accomplishments, so we're going to get into it. . .

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

https://ricksaez.com/audible Show Notes Questions we Discussed

• Let's begin with Husband and dad first. Was your dad your role model?
• You have a bachelor of Life, Graphic Design, and Creative Writing . . . I didn't see those options at my College.
• What was your first job out of college?
• Your work experience looks like it involved a lot of creativity and fun. Is there an experience that rises to the top of that list?
• Which do you feel had the most influence in honing your advertising and branding chops?
• How did you get involved with The Brand Leader?
• Over your four years with The Brand Leader, are there a couple of accomplishments you are most proud of?
• As an advertising and branding pro, do you know how tradeshows can return that excitement and energy from their earlier days?
• Tell us about your book Twice Found. What inspired you to write a book?
• Are there any new projects in the pipeline you can talk about?
• What outdoor activities do you participate in?
• Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks wanting to get into the outdoor advertising and branding biz?
• What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100 Peak Design iPhone case
• Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners
• where can people find you if they'd like to follow up (email, Twitter, Instagram, etc)

Learn More

To learn more about Kyle and his work with The Brand Leader, visit their website at: https://thebrandleader.com/

You can also visit Kyle on these social sites:

Instagram

Linkedin

Next Steps

If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at ricksaez.com/listen. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them, too.

Keywords

#KyleDuford #BrandLeaders #Advertising #Leadership #RickSaez #TheOutdoorBizPodcast #PodcastInterview #OWAA

Podcast produced using Descript
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

 

Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to episode 420 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast. I am taking a two-week break to get some adventure and relaxation in and I'm excited to present a podcast collab for your listening enjoyment. I am featuring two episodes from my good friend Howard Fox's Outdoor Adventure Series podcast and he is featuring two of my show's on his podcast. Today we'll hear Howards' conversation with Scott Kovarovics, executive director at the Izaak Walton League of America. Enjoy!

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

The League is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2022 and is one of America's oldest and most successful conservation organizations. The League has carved out a unique role, promoting hands-on conservation and citizen science while advocating for strong state and national policies to protect our air, water, and wildlife.

The League promotes outdoor recreation, especially fishing, hunting, and recreational shooting sports such as trap, skeet, and archery.

Insight2Go

The threats to our environment today may be less visible than 100 years ago, but they are equally - if not more - serious.

To learn more about the Izaak Walton League of America, visit their website at https://www.iwla.org

You can also learn more about the League on their social sites:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Click here to learn more about the Outdoor Writers Association of America

The Outdoor Adventure Series is a Podcast Production of Fox Coaching, Inc.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

I'm here with a good friend of mine, Kirk Ohly. Kirk is one of the founding partners of the new eBike rack brand Suweeka. We're in Ballard, Stoop Brewery in Ballard. This is going to be something different, Kirk is interviewing me. Let's go!

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Happy Holidays, everyone! Welcome to episode 418 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast. I am taking a two-week break to get some adventure and relaxation in, and I'm excited to present a podcast collab for your listening enjoyment. I am featuring two episodes from my good friend Howard Fox's Outdoor Adventure Series podcast, and he is featuring two of my shows on his podcast. Today, we'll hear Howard's conversation with Surfrider Foundation's Chad Nelsen on their mission to protect coastlines and waterways . . . enjoy!

Chad is an environmentalist and the driving force behind the Surfrider Foundation. With a strong belief in the power of grassroots movements, Dr. Nelsen and the Surfrider Foundation aim to protect and conserve coastal and ocean environments. Bringing together individuals who share a love for the coasts and oceans, the foundation has successfully channeled their passion into actionable steps toward stewardship.

 

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

TOPICS WE DISCUSSED

1. What is the Surfrider Foundation's primary focus?
2.  How does the organization work to address plastic pollution?
3. How has the organization evolved?
4. How does outdoor recreation relate to environmental stewardship?
5. How does the Surfrider Foundation engage younger generations?
6. Where does the Foundation have chapters and international affiliates?
7. How does the Foundation establish credibility and effectiveness?

INSIGHT2GO

The Power of Grassroots Organizing: "Never doubt that a small group of people can't make a difference because that's the only group that ever has." 
― Quote by Margaret Mead

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Chad and the Surfrider Foundation, visit their website at https://www.surfrider.org/ or connect with them on these social sites:

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
LinkedIn

NEXT STEPS

If you enjoy podcasts devoted to the outdoor adventure space, find us online at https://outdooradventureseries.com. We welcome likes and comments, and if you know someone who is also an outdoor enthusiast, go ahead and share our site with them too.

KEYWORDS

#SurfriderFoundation #Conservation #Stewardship #Surf #Surfing #OutdoorAdventure

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 417, An un-Cut episode of The Outdoor Biz Podcast. The second of two episodes featuring a few quick conversations I captured on the show floor at The Running Event in Austin Texas.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Links

The Running Event

Camelbak

Farm to Feet

Flip Mitts

K Swiss Pickle Ball

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 416 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Thrive Market.

See why over 1 million members love Thrive – shop 6,000+ products curated by our experts. Organic? Non-GMO? Vegan, paleo, keto? Gluten-free? You name it, Thrive Market caters to it.

Today, I'm talking with Tiffany Smith, CEO of Camber Outdoors. Tiffany and Camber Outdoors are dedicated to empowering the Outdoor Recreation Economy industry to build workplaces where people from all communities, backgrounds, identities, faiths, and world views can thrive.

Brought to you this week by Thrive Market

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

  Show Notes

- You have years of experience in the non-profit world, how were you inspired to pursue that path?

One of my mentors, Dr. Bob Long, used to work for the Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek. There was this opportunity [00:02:40] that came up with the Urban League, and he thought I should go for it. And, a few other leaders at the Urban League also thought I should go for it, so I did.

I [00:02:50] put together, a unique proposal. They were looking for someone to do fundraising for them, and I wasn't really even quite sure, What that really looked like, but I was great in sales, and I [00:03:00] was excellent in marketing. And so when Dr. Long began to explain to me a little bit more about the role and what it looks like, I was like, you know what, I can do this.

And I'll put my name in a hat. [00:03:10] I created a proposal for the Urban League around what I could do for them in reference to being their fundraising consultant. And, They hired [00:03:20] me, trusted me, to do that. And within the first year, I raised over a million dollars for that. At that moment, I [00:03:30] knew that the passion that I had to be able to mark the passion around sales and around engagement with relationships could merge with [00:03:40] my passion for community and mission work. And so it was like the perfect marriage for me getting into the non-profit world.

- What led you to Camber?

Oh, man, I was finishing up with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society [00:05:40]. Great organization. And I had been working there, as their regional director.

And, you reach a point in your [00:05:50] career, I believe, where you outgrow certain areas, right? That's true. and, sometimes, we heed it, and we take the nudge, and other times we don't. [00:06:00] And I was feeling that nudge. It was right around when everything happened with George Floyd. And so, like everyone else in the world, you're rethinking everything you're [00:06:10] thinking.

Your job, your family structure, your work life balance, what does that look like? And so that was in that moment for me. And I said, I think it's time for me to up [00:06:20] level and identify, an organization where the impact goes beyond my last name. I always say this because I mean it with [00:06:30] everything within me.

It's really important that my legacy doesn't stop with the Smiths. And when Camber approached me [00:06:40], they had this unique position for c

Chief Development Officer. the first of its kind for that organization, [00:06:50] and the workaround being able to transform workspaces to be more inclusive was extremely attractive to me to be able to come [00:07:00] in, not just to impact the individual lives in the workspaces and to.

Help companies build more competitive [00:07:10] opportunities, but to understand that the work that is being done has the potential to impact an entire industry. [00:07:20] That was powerful to me.

- Walk us through Cambers Roadmap to Workplace Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity

Camber's roadmap to workplace inclusion, equity, and diversity. We align and partner with [00:13:30] corporations, small businesses, and nonprofits to help and support their needs around workplace, DEI.

And once they become a partner with Camber, we have the [00:13:40] Camber Survey System, which, next year is going to receive National recognition from the American Evaluation Association. It's [00:13:50] going to be a case study. We partnered with Claremont Graduate Center years ago to develop a very robust survey around DEI in workspaces [00:14:00], and in doing so, the work that we're doing and how we are sharing our information with our partners and how we're aligning our [00:14:10] programming.

To support the survey, the American Advising Association has recognized that we've identified a different pathway for [00:14:20] evaluation and research across industries across the board. And so we're going to be recognized next year for that. And we're really [00:14:30] looking forward to it because we've seen a lot of progress with our partners.

And so, the campus survey system is a 2 part survey. We have a workplace component and an [00:14:40] employee component. The workplace component is where we have a leadership to complete the survey. The 2nd. Part of the survey is where the employees complete the exact [00:14:50] same survey, and they share with us their lived experiences versus the vision of the leadership.

That's good. And upon that, [00:15:00] we then, collect the data. And we identify the areas that the corporations are doing amazing at, and then also the [00:15:10] opportunities, where we see that they need to really change, to modify if they truly want to become and build an environment that's inclusive for [00:15:20] everyone.

Based upon that data, we then tailor our programming to align with the needs of that particular partner. And we have programming in [00:15:30] place that helps them to move the needle in any area that the survey has shown that they need help or support in, and that the partners then are [00:15:40] able to streamline all of the programming across their entire organization.

So every single employee has access to all of our programs, resources, and tools [00:15:50] when they become a Camber partner. And based upon that movement and that application of programming, along with our other flagship programming, we're seeing change [00:16:00] happen.

- Your profile lists you as the primary revenue facilitator (I love that description). What are some of the ways you facilitate revenue?

From my long history of being [00:20:50] in development in the nonprofit space, 17 plus years, there is a unique way that I like to think about generating revenue. and now in my role as CEO, it's,[00:21:00] I guess I would say I am the relationship facilitator.

But to be honest, that has always been my model when thinking about revenue is [00:21:10] being able to uniquely identify whether I'm talking about an individual, a foundational corporation, identify alignment with mission around a [00:21:20] common ground or a common cause. And then building it based upon the timing, the alignment, around mission and around [00:21:30] impact. And it becomes not so much me having to ask or beg for money, but just a natural next step in [00:21:40] the relationship that we formed together around this. And go, and I still stick with that. I stick with building [00:21:50] authentic relationships with partners willing to be married to Camber and not to Tiffany, That they're married to the mission of Camber, that they're married to the work we're doing. That they can [00:22:00] see the impact and value that in a way that leads them to contribute or want to be a part of the change, and so my job is [00:22:10] to. Showcase us in a way that the people that are aligned with us, I like to say that is a part of our team, our group, quote [00:22:20] unquote, our people that I highlight us in a way that they're attracted to us, not because we're flashy or we have these striking stats, but [00:22:30] because the impact that they're seeing moves them to action.

Yeah. And the things that you're doing also fit in with their ethos and their being and all their [00:22:40] things. So they're going to line up to it, quick, more quickly than others. And they will want to stick around because it's what they're all about.

- Who are some of your key partners?

Of course, every single partner means everything to us. But strong support from REI, which has been strong for us throughout the years, [00:23:30] Winnebago Industries, Brooks Running, People for Bikes, the VF Foundation, Keen, SRAM, I can go on and on.

Yeah, a lot of the brand partners. Yeti Coolers [00:23:40], We really span across the outdoors and not in a traditional scope of outdoor industry companies, but more of a wider scope around [00:23:50] outdoor health and wellness and environment. And we have a partner, Helen of Troy, who came on board this year. So we're really expanding [00:24:00] on how we impact and the companies that we impact, and we're grateful for every single partner

- You've held roles with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Girl Scouts, and National Urban League, which of those experiences do you draw on most in your role at Camber?

Oh man, that's a good [00:25:10] question. I would say that every single role has prepared me for this position. When I think about [00:25:20] Urban League, I think about that as my foundational piece, right? learning the non-profit world, learning how to make a profit in the nonprofit world, right?[00:25:30]

Those pieces that, beyond the mission and sustainability for nonprofits, are financial, right? And then with the Girl Scouts, it was so much of spreading my wings a little bit. [00:25:40] They hired me to, cover a region. And so I had to move for an impact quickly with a city where I had zero contacts, [00:25:50] right?

So it allowed me to quickly engage and know how to emerge myself in an organization and a community quickly to [00:26:00] have impact. And then when I think about LLS, I was able to take a regional or local type concept and grow it to [00:26:10] impact our national brand at LLS. I had a concept or idea around development that was working in my particular region.

I [00:26:20] have some relationships with some celebrity NFL players, and I was able to merge those two worlds together to have a larger impact on a national model [00:26:30] that they're still doing. So all of these people, I think, have really helped and supported me to be able to work in the industry and in [00:26:40] this space, especially as CEO because I pull it from the mall all the time.

- Are there any initiatives you wish you had more time for?

Yeah [00:27:10] There's never a shortage of things on our list. I'm sure one of the main things that are on our list and that we'll be doing more of this year is we did a pilot called Conversations with Camber [00:27:20], and we did it based upon, when I became CEO, and my entire team, we did, what we called coffee with camber.

And so [00:27:30] every single person on my team, along with myself, talked with all of our partners who were willing to speak with us. We were just checking in, and [00:27:40] we were just seeing what we should be doing more of. And it was a founding idea, and I wanted to do it that way, Rick, because I wanted to hear from [00:27:50] every level of leadership.

The old way of DEI says, let's look at the executives only, let's have a conversation in a room, and then tell [00:28:00] everyone else. I would like to forge it, let's have everybody in the room and have a real conversation. Yeah, fantastic. And they [00:28:10] told us that they wanted to convene together and get together and learn more about some practical ways of how to implement DI in their workspaces.

And so we [00:28:20] created Conversations with Camber, which is currently online right now. No, cool. We've had three conversations with over 600 plus [00:28:30] people wanting to participate. And we understood it was important for us to have for camber to have an [00:28:40] opportunity to get. Leaders together, whether they're a Camber partner or not, if they're in this space and want to learn more around DEI or want to implement different [00:28:50] strategies, we wanted to build a community of leaders that can come together and share what it looks like day to day on how to implement the change that feels like it's [00:29:00] impossible to do.

And so that's what comes with Camber. And because of the success that we've seen in a short period of time, we're looking next year to do some more online programming, but we're [00:29:10] going to take it live. We're going to go live with Camber and do some more convenings live. And so that's my hope.

My hope is that we receive enough funding and support to [00:29:20] be able. To take conversations with Camber live on the road, to hit different regions. And so we are looking forward to be able to do more of that

- Many people might be intimidated to use their voice to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion and may not do anything because they think their voice doesn't matter. Tell us how their voice makes a difference.

Let me say this, Rick. your voice is as powerful [00:30:30] as you believe it to be. And because when you believe in something, and it moves from [00:30:40] thought to actual speech, and then speech turns into behavior, right?

You have a thought about something, and you speak up, and then [00:30:50] You say something, and you become so passionate about it, it moves you to action. So no matter to me, no matter [00:31:00] where you are, what level of power or influence you may have, your voice absolutely [00:31:10] matters. And I think people have the fear of not knowing.

What to say or how to say or not wanting to say the wrong thing is the [00:31:20] greatest hindrance to your belief system in the core of who you are. And the moment that you have doubt in your voice, then no, you shouldn't be [00:31:30] speaking. But your voice has so much weight because you're one person who can share a multitude of [00:31:40] words, too many to have a ripple effect.

We just have to have the courage to believe that what we're saying is powerful enough

- How can businesses and individuals get involved with Camber?

Great [00:34:40] question. it's super simple. you can go to our website, camberoutdoors.org. And I reach out there. you can reach out to me on LinkedIn. [00:34:50] Tiffany Smith, you can find me. Don't worry. it's not a ton of Tiffany Smiths,

Probably not. [00:35:00] Also, you can find us on social media @camberoutdoors as well on all platforms. You can send us a DM. You can find us there. We'll [00:35:10] definitely reach out to myself and the team. A great group of individuals who are really inspired about change are happy to support and come alongside and be your [00:35:20] partner and all these things that you guys are doing.

Meetups, for lack of a better term, and things around that are all posted there. Yes. Yes. Things are online, on our [00:35:30] website, on social media. Also, I would definitely say we have a newsletter called The Inclusion Insider where we share, once a month, just what's happening, and what's going on. [00:35:40] I share a little blog every month. And also you can go on our website and just simply, hit the subscribe button.

- Tell us about your favorite outdoor activity.

Oh, Fun question. Fun question. Okay. I, for the first time ever, [00:36:00] Rick, I went horseback riding about a year or so ago.

I Fell in love with it. Oh, my goodness. Oh, my goodness. [00:36:10] The part that I fell in love with the most, Rick, with this is that I like to know what's happening next. I like to feel, and so having to really release, [00:36:20] control and really trust the force in a way was the most liberating thing.

I don't get to do that as often as I'd like, but on a day-to-day basis, I'm either, for the most part, going to probably hit the pavement with a quick job or [00:36:40] run.

- Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks wanting to work on diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workplace?

My advice is don't be afraid to start where you are. A lot of times, organizations have these lofty, huge goals to [00:37:30] try to change something that has been in place for centuries, right? And I try to encourage all of our partners that it's okay to start at [00:37:40] whatever level that you may find yourself on.

The key is to just begin. The second thing that I would say is that I wouldn't recreate the wheel. I would identify [00:37:50] organizations or individuals that are part of this work, and I would. Find the perfect fit for you. We would love to service everyone, but we [00:38:00] possibly can't. And so we want to partner with companies that align with us, that align with how we do this work, the way that we do this work, and that aligns with our company values.

And right. [00:38:10] And so we put together a, a consulting guide for people that are looking for different partners in that way, because we understood on the service so many, And so the other part I would say is that [00:38:20] when you do align with someone as a partner, which I think will be key is you align with someone that has proof of impact.[00:38:30]

It's one thing to say something, and it's one thing to dream of the work, but it's another thing to do the work and have the results to show. Yep. [00:38:40] I'm proud to say that at Camber, we're beyond the dream phase and into the impact phase. And so we're happy to offer any [00:38:50] thought leadership to those who are interested.

And we're also happy. To support you in any other organization that needs a guide as you're vetting [00:39:00] other opportunities. Again, our impact focus is the industry. It's not just our bottom line. So yeah. Leverage your experience.

- What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100?

My water bottle, that's good, yeah, that's come [00:39:20] up a few times. Actually, that's good. Yeah, like I said, my go-to is to jog. I am training, I always wanted to run a marathon, and I'm not quite committed. [00:39:30] to a full marathon, but I said I can at least start training for a 5k. So, I'm currently training for a 5k. And yeah, the water bottle right now is my go to.

- What are a couple of your favorite books?

I'm currently reading Great CEOs Are Lazy. [00:40:00] Yeah. It's how exceptional CEOs do more in less time. And so being like such a nimble nonprofit, you don't have to think of, [00:40:10] I have to learn from the best quick. And so I wanted to learn from successful CEOs and behaviors and patterns on their actions to be more efficient, especially [00:40:20] when we have limited resources as a nonprofit but a huge impact.

And so that's been a great read for me because it's not just talking about the day-to-day work, but also [00:40:30] the work-life balance if that's even a thing. You need to be able to create and innovate in a seamless way.

- Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners? 

I would say, to [00:41:30] our, to the listeners, that are on with us, just, thank you just, to those that are Camber supporters and stakeholders, we have an amazing board of directors, a board chair, [00:41:40] Reggie, has just really been just an amazing, a contribution to us.

So, thank you to everyone who has supported Camber outdoors over the years. And I will also say, [00:41:50] be on the lookout. We have a lot of exciting new things. And, as I said before, national recognition will not just change the scope of Camber, but [00:42:00] change the scope of the industry.

So stay tuned for more to come. Lots to come.

Follow up with Camber

Camber Website

Camber: Linkedin

Camber Programs

Instagram

Facebook

X(Twitter)

Follow up with Tiffany: tiffany.smith@camberoutdoors.org

Tiffany: Linkedin

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 415 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Toyota. From the RAV 4 to the mighty Tacoma, Toyota has a model built for everyone's Outdoor adventures. Today I'm talking with Photographer Matt Addington about his career and recent film A Bird Dog Named Kaiya. How the love for a bird dog inspired a young man to fully embrace bird hunting, an important part of his Laotian culture.

Brought to you this week by Toyota

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

Show Notes

• First Overnight Adventure: Matt doesn't recall the exact first experience but he grew up in Northern Minnesota, where outdoor life was part of his lifestyle. He spent a lot of time in places like the Boundary Waters and Voyager's National Park.

• When Did You Pick Up a Camera? Matt was enamored with cameras from a young age. He remembers having a Kodak disc camera when it came out and taking numerous pictures, even as a child. However, his more serious introduction to photography started in seventh grade when their art teacher gave him a Pentax K 1000 and taught him darkroom techniques.

• Start in Video: Although Matt didn't start shooting video when he first picked up a camera, he began experimenting with tape-to-tape edits in junior high and early high school. He says he officially entered the digital video side of things in the late '90s due to seeing the potential in digital video and having support from leadership at the school where he taught.

• Inspiration to Go Pro: There wasn't a specific moment Matt decided to go professional. It was a gradual transition as he was already doing photography and videography as part of his teaching job. Over time, he started getting paid for projects outside of teaching, leading to a shift into the professional world.

• First Significant Photo or Video Shoot: While there might not be one defining shoot, Matt recalled a moment at the Shot Show where he unexpectedly saw one of his images displayed prominently for a major brand, marking a standout moment in realizing the impact of his work.

• First Outdoor Commercial Shoot: Some of his initial commercial shoots were with Carbon TV (formerly Carbon Media Group) and Federal Ammunition. These shoots involved hunting trips to places like Quebec and working with local companies from Minnesota, where Matt is based.

• Preference in Outdoor Activities: Matt is fond of paddling but also emphasizes the uniqueness and enjoyment in each activity he's been fortunate to experience, be it climbing peaks, guiding through mountains, or quietly sitting in tree stands. He highlighted the beauty of different experiences and how each holds its own significance.

• Favorite Place: Despite the numerous epic places visited globally, Matt finds a new appreciation for home when returning from these adventures. He says the joy of watching the sunset from his front porch with family, indicating a deep appreciation for the familiarity and beauty of home.

• Catalyst for the film "A Bird Dog Named Kaiya": The catalyst for the film was meeting Ken Yang, a young man who had transitioned from being a staunch anti-hunter to a prominent voice in the hunting and fishing space due to personal life events.

• How they met Ken Yang: They met at a Professional Outdoor Media Association conference in Nashville, where Ken Yang received a media scholarship.

• Development of the storyline: Initially, there was a concept of telling the story of a former anti-hunter turned hunter due to his unique ethnic background. However, the storyline evolved as they delved deeper into Ken's story, focusing more on the impact of a dog in changing his life and reconciling relationships.

• Capturing the content for the film: It took multiple hunts, approximately four days, to capture the content, ranging from golden fall days to extremely cold weather (10 below zero).

• Current projects: Matt is working on various projects, including a documentary about a unique turkey hunter, a personal piece highlighting the legacy of a deceased friend in the outdoor space, a documentary about a prestigious hockey school, and a project about dispelling myths of trophy hunting in Africa.

• Advice for aspiring photographers: Matt encourages new photographers to experiment with photography, use resources like YouTube for learning, and find inspiration from others' work that resonates with them.

• Daily routines: There's no fixed routine, but Matt enjoys walking, hiking, and spending time in nature. Coffee in the morning seems to be a consistent ritual.

• Favorite books: Books like the Mitch Rapp series by Vince Flynn, and Matt also finds inspiration in reading the Bible.

• Favorite outdoor gear under $100: Matt mentioned his Irish Setter boots (although they might be slightly above $100) and a pair of gloves by Striker that provide dexterity and warmth.

Follow up with Matt

Matt Addington Creative

Instagram

Facebook

You Tube

X (Twitter)

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 414, The Outdoor Biz Podcast UnCut. I'm dropping a couple of bonuses on you over the next two weeks or so, featuring a few quick conversations I captured on the show floor at The Running Event in Austin, Texas.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

 

Links

The Running Event

Headsweats

Thule

Stoked Oats

Nadia Ruiz, Professional Trail Runner

Ultimate Direction

Envoy B2B

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 413 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Toyota. From the RAV 4 to the mighty Tacoma, Toyota has a model built for everyone's Outdoor adventures. I'm excited to talk with Toyota North America Midwest PR and Outdoor Communications Manager and fellow OWAA member Curt McAllister.

Brought to you this week by Toyota

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

[04:59.1] How did you get involved with Toyota? Curtis got involved with Toyota through the Great Lakes Outdoor Writers Association. The association approached him about starting the Toyota Let's Go Places scholarship program aimed at supporting young individuals interested in outdoor media.

[11:26:1] What drives Toyota's commitment to promoting hunting, fishing, and conservation? Toyota's commitment to promoting hunting, fishing, and conservation is showcased through its sponsorship of outdoor communicator scholarships. These scholarships aim to support young individuals in these fields and help replenish memberships in outdoor media groups.

[14:03:3] What is your role in Toyota's sponsorship of outdoor communicator scholarships? Curtis's role involves collaborating with organizations like the Great Lakes Outdoor Writers Association to initiate the Toyota Let's Go Places scholarship program. They help target and support young people interested in journalism or forestry by funding their attendance at conferences and events.

[14:55:03] How about the process of choosing a scholarship winner? The process involves targeting three or four young individuals, usually through word of mouth or by approaching local colleges with journalism or forestry majors. Toyota sponsors their conference attendance by covering accommodations, registrations, and travel expenses.

[21:09:1] Do you get outside much yourself? I try to get outside as much as possible. I live in a rural part of Northern Oakland County, Michigan, and engage in activities like leaf-peeping, exploring natural trails, and visiting dog parks. Additionally, I coach college football, spending several nights a week on the football field.

[24:33:5] What is your favorite outdoor activity? Curtis enjoys fishing and shares fond memories of taking their sons fishing. They find solace in taking a couple of hours off to fish at local reservoirs or lakes.

[25:27:5] Can you share an epic outdoor adventure with us?  Curtis shares his experiences with whitewater rafting in West Virginia with friends. They found these adventures on the Cheat or New Rivers and recall the thrill of navigating the rapids.

[25:54:7] Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks wanting to get into the outdoor/adventure biz? I suggest discovering one's passion within the outdoor industry and approaching companies aligned with that interest. Additionally, becoming an influencer through social media content is another way to gain traction in the outdoor industry.

[29:03:5] What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100? Not too long ago, I picked up a powerful LED flashlight from Bass Pro Shops for around $40. They find it useful for various activities, especially for evening dog walks.

[30:18:1] How about some of your favorite books? Are you a big reader? I'm a faith based gentleman, I certainly try to dive into the Bible as much as I can. I also enjoy folklore books, particularly during Halloween season, like "Spooky Michigan" by S.E. Schlosser, which explores local paranormal stories.

[31:41:5] Is there anything else you want to say or ask of our listeners?  We at Toyota are really proud of our products. We literally have every segment covered. We've got some great new products that are on the way. Like the new Tacoma and the return of the Land Cruiser to the United States in the spring, along with a significant price drop. They encourage people to explore Toyota's offerings on the public domain site toyotanewsroom.com.

[32:46:5] Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up? My Twitter handle is @mcprpro and my Instagram handle is @kurt.mcallister. You can also visit the public domain site toyotanewsroom.com to learn more about Toyota products.

Links

Follow up with Curtis

Twitter

Instagram

Linkedin

Toyota Newsroom

Favorite Book: Spooky Michigan

Favorite Piece of Gear under $100: DEWALT 12V MAX Magnetic Work Light

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

Welcome to Episode 412 of the outdoor biz podcast and my conversation with Jennifer Kross and Josh Arnold. Jennifer is an Education Biologist with Ducks Unlimited Great Plains region and Josh is an avid hunter helping other young folks learn about hunting and fishing.

Brought to you this week by Ducks Unlimited

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

 

00:02:27 - 00:02:58 How did you get into duck hunting? Josh got into duck hunting through his interest in the Texas Waterfowl Brigade.

00:03:44 - 00:04:06 Do you do any other kinds of hunting? "I'm actually more of a pheasant hunter than a duck hunter"

00:04:27 - 00:04:55 How did you meet Jennifer? "I actually was doing an event down in a little place in North Dakota called Washburn and we went to a DU banquet and I was selling a puppy because we still had a couple of them. I saw an advertisement saying, "join us trip down to Texas". And I thought that was really fun. So I emailed her and that's how it started."

00:05:17 - 00:05:42 What exactly is the North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade? The North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade is a program developed based on the Texas Waterfowl Brigade model. It focuses on educating kids about waterfowl, habitat management, leadership, and teamwork through a five-day camp.

00:09:23 - 00:10:21 Why did you choose the Texas Waterfowl Brigade model? Josh was drawn to the Texas Brigade model because of its seamless setup, emphasis on hands-on learning, incorporation of leadership activities, and the successful engagement of kids in outdoor activities.

00:12:45 - 00:13:26 Which program are you modeling from the Texas Waterfowl Brigade? They are specifically modeling the Waterfowl Brigade from the Texas Brigades' camp program.

How are you using that program to develop your program? We're adapting the Texas Waterfowl Brigade model but with a different curriculum focusing on the breeding grounds in North Dakota instead of habitat management for wintering ducks in Texas.

00:14:09 - 00:14:15 When will you launch the program? The North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade program is set to run for five days, scheduled from June 3rd to June 7th, 2024, during the summer.

Is everyone excited about it? Yes, there is a level of excitement surrounding the program, but some individuals are also a bit hesitant or cautious about the new endeavor.

00:21:27 - 00:22:02 Are there any hunting trips in your future? Josh mentions potential hunting trips to Red Lodge, Montana, for Rough Grouse and to Ohio for deer hunting with his father's friends.

00:22:30 - 00:23:11 Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks looking to get into duck hunting? Josh recommends finding someone experienced to teach you, emphasizing the importance of learning from others, even if the hunt isn't successful. He also suggests that hunting with a group can make the experience more enjoyable. Jensifer's advice is: that in North Dakota, we have organizations that host different Types of hunts. Like, I know our pheasants forever. Like, they're they do a youth hunt, and then our the North Dakota game and fish, Excuse me. The North Dakota Game and Fish, we have there's a they have an r three coordinator who also coordinates some Hunting around waterfowl and things like that, so they're almost like mentored hunts.

What is your favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100? 00:25:35 - 00:25:57 Josh mentions a good dog brush with dual sides for detangling dog hair, particularly helpful after hunting trips when dogs often get tangled in cockleburs. 00:26:27 - 00:26:32 Jennifer says you've got to have a good headlamp.

How about some of your favorite books? 00:26:41 - 00:27:15 Josh talks about "The Lonesome Cowboy with Friends," a book given to him by an author he met at a camp. 00:27:56 - 00:28:02 Jennifer discusses "Devolution" by Max Brooks, a Bigfoot-themed book that combines fiction with survival advice.

Is there anything else you'd like to say or ask of our listeners? Jennifer promotes fundraising efforts for the North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade through Ducks Unlimited, encouraging support for their camp on February 8th, 2024, during Giving Hearts Day. Josh advises people to spend time outdoors and disconnect from screens.

Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up (email, Twitter, Instagram, etc)? Josh provides his email address: josharnald76@gmail.com. Jennifer shares her email: jcross@ducks.org, and she directs interested individuals to apply for the camp at texasbrigades.org/applications or contact North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade at NorthDakotaWaterfowl@texasbrigades.org.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

On today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, Rick welcomes Camilo Ortega, an adventure guide, experience designer, and passionate advocate for responsible travel based in Colombia.

Brought to you this week by The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

Facebook   Twitter   Instagram

Love the show? Subscribe,  rate, review, and share!

Show Notes

WHAT HAPPENED:

When I first met the PuA community deep in Colombia's Amazonian transition zone, I assumed I was there to help them build a tourism product.

You know, offer guidance, teach best practices, maybe even map out a solid route.

But instead, they taught me. About autonomy. About culture. About what happens when a community says: "We don't want to be a stop on someone's bucket list—we want this to bring our stories back to life."

They didn't want their kids leaving for the cities. They didn't want their culture watered down to a "show" for tourists.

They wanted tourism to help them remember who they are. And somehow, that remembering started a revival—young people asking questions, elders teaching forgotten traditions, a weaving school reborn, and tools once lost now repurposed into privacy dividers in a jungle lodge.

(Which, by the way, is way cozier than you'd think.)

PRINCIPLE:

It's easy to think your product or service is about solving a problem.

But what if it's about helping people reclaim their identity?

What if the real "success" is the impact your work has far beyond the transaction?

People don't want just experiences—they want transformation. That's true whether you're guiding through the Amazon or guiding your clients through a sales process.

TRANSITION:

Here's the thing though...

Most creators, founders, and community builders I know are so caught up in the deliverables—the steps, the logistics, the perfect pitch—that they miss the deeper reason someone says "yes."

It's not about showing off your expertise.

It's about building trust by standing for something bigger than the sale.

THAT'S WHY:

That's why this episode with Camilo Ortega exists. Because it's not just a conversation about adventure travel—it's a masterclass in how real connection, cultural stewardship, and community-led innovation create experiences people never forget.

And if you've ever felt stuck trying to "market" what you do—this might just be the reset your storytelling needs.

CALL TO ACTION:

If you're tired of selling services that feel flat, uninspiring, or disconnected from your bigger mission—this episode will show you what it really looks like when your product becomes a platform for change.

Follow up with Camilo: camilo@colombianproject.com

Website: https://www.colombianproject.com/

Welcome to episode 411 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by toughcutie, Premium quality merino wool hiking socks made by women for women in the USA. This week American endurance professional athlete, seven-time World Champion, author, entrepreneur, Emmy Award winner, and motivational speaker Rebecca Rusch joins me. We learn about her very first bike, how she finds all her adventures, where her drive and determination come from, and plenty more.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

00:39 Rebecca Rush discusses her adventures and inspirations.

04:37 Enjoyed outdoors from a young age, shaping career around sport with no master plan.

09:25 A personal adventure on the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

10:05 Evolution of career and industry, with creativity and changes.

14:56 Long-distance activities engage the mind and promote reflection and improvement.

17:38 I was surprised by positive feedback, as it inspired others from my book.

20:19 Unaware of the devastation in Vietnam, Dad's words led to realization, and career pivot for more impact.

23:26 Rebecca wants to explore famous routes like the Ho Chi Minh Trail and Silk Roads but is also interested in untouched areas in Idaho for bike-packing expeditions.

27:12 Rebecca's advice: Start small, use resources, and consider your skill level. Find guided trails for safety and convenience.

Links

Rebecca Rush Socials

IG, FB, LNKN, TWT, YouTube,

Website

Be Good Foundation

Shop Rebecca Rusc Collections

Discount code: ODBIZ15

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to Episode 410 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Brought to you this week by Four Wheel Campers. Today I'm talking with Kirk Ohly and Spencer T Houser about their new project Suweeka, a modular, vehicle rack system – engineered to support the lifestyle of active and passionate people in original and innovative ways.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

First Bikes

Spencer

Takara BMX Bike

First 10 speed

Kirk

Moxie - Monoshock

First 10-speed

Favorite Books Build by Tony Fadell He headed up the iPod & iPhone team and also started the NEST brand. A Trip to the Beach, By Melinda Blanchard and Robert Blanchard a husband and wife team that moved from Vermont to Anquila and followed up on their crazy idea to open a beachside restaurant. It's a great read, and it didn't dawn on me until we started Suweeka that it's a great take on starting a business.  

Favorite outdoor gear purchase under $100

This hasn't changed from my last appearance, A hammock from Eagles Nest Outfitters. I think we have six of them right now   Also, a special mention for @Belmont Blankets. They are the kind of blanket our parents carried, and we didn't understand why. They are cozy and bombproof, and now my kids fight over who gets to share mine with me. https://belmontblanket.com/   Dometic water jug and rechargeable faucet https://www.dometic.com/en-us/outdoor/outdoor-drinkware/jugs?gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw7oeqBhBwEiwALyHLM0ocRQcdG83s_gX4fWDHkRg_Q9HhrK9sBBVouLj2HXQZzalv4TVvDxoCTRIQAvD_BwE   Knipex tools https://www.knipex-tools.com/ Follow up https://suweeka.com/ Instagram:  @suweeka_pnw @kirkohly Facebook Linkedin Kirk email Suweeka email: info@suweeka.com  

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Hey everyone, welcome to Episode 409 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I'm talking with Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation Director of Marketing Rachel Piacenza. As a passionate team leader and basketball coach, Rachel is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders. She believes in creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed. Brought to you this week by The Running Event.

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@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

Show Notes

[00:00:40] Episode 409 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Rachel Piacenza, director of marketing for the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, discusses leadership and empowerment.

[00:05:56] Rachel grew up near a fishing resort, and developed a passion for the outdoors and water.

[00:09:16] After college, Rachel joined Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources, which connected me to RBFF's annual marketing workshops for representatives from all 50 states. I was fortunate to attend and discuss successful marketing strategies for our state with minimal competition.

[00:10:56] We are a small nonprofit promoting fishing and boating. We run marketing campaigns and engage with stakeholders to elevate these activities in state and federal parks. Our focus is on awareness and education.

[00:14:40] We collaborate with Discover Boating for an awareness campaign and refer traffic to their website. We also attend boating industry events to promote our brand.

[00:26:04] Passionate outdoor community, build relationships, step out of comfort zone.

[00:28:52] Rachel's current book she is reading, Grit by Angela Duckworth.

[00:30:29] One more thought from Rachel: "why do I need to buy a license? What's the importance? Like, why do I need to pay somebody to go enjoy a resource, right? One important data fact is 100 percent of fishing license sales go directly back into conservation.

Sign up for their newsletter, Newswaves

Follwow up with Rachel

Linkedin

Instagram

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Outdoor Biz Podcast and Episode 408 with Elisabeth Brentano, brought to you this week by Four Wheel Campers. Elisabeth is a writer, photographer, and producer based in Southern California. Her wanderlust has taken her worldwide to capture travel and environmental stories. And as much as she loves shooting natural wonders in far-flung places, these days, she prefers road-tripping through the last remaining patches of the Wild West.   Her love for travel and nature shines through in her work for tourism bureaus, environmental nonprofits, and publishers, and she's also worked with global brands like Adobe, Marriott, and Samsung. Her goal is to push her clients to invest in more purposeful projects, and she is always looking for ways to incorporate sustainability and conservation practices into her commercial work.

Brought to you this week by Four Wheel Campers

You're also invited to the Four Wheel Campers Open House! November 4th! Climb into over 15 different camper models, get all of your camper questions answered, and see why FWC is such a favorite for so many outdoor enthusiasts!

Here's a link register: FWC Factory Fall Open House Event — (Rain or Shine) - Four Wheel Campers

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: email: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com​

Show Notes

[00:00:40] Elizabeth Brentano: Writer, photographer, producer, sustainability advocate.

[00:05:23] Switching from TV to blogging for success.

[00:06:37] Betrayed by boss, but blessing in disguise.

[00:12:12] Kind people went crazy, air travel changed.

[00:14:56] Tourism industry embraces responsible recreation, non-profits.

[00:16:48] Pitched project to gear company, discussed ROI.

[00:22:26] Asked to join ambassador team, enthusiastic partnership.

[00:25:02] Organizing media for promotional events, documenting with photos, blogs, and sharing.

[00:26:43] Dan and Melanie help organize events together.

[00:30:20] Improving outdoor experience with customizable truck campers.

[00:33:11] Installing wildlife-friendly fencing, removing barbed wire fencing for Pronghorn and deer safety. Possible additional fire pits and previous erosion control and trash pickup efforts. March deadline.

[00:37:15] Budget-friendly water filter for backpackers, highly recommended.

[00:40:54] Consider impact; support brands doing real work.

Follow up with Elisabeth:

Email 

Website

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

 

 

After a long career in the snow sports space developing the world's first digital avalanche rescue transceiver and promoting avalanche safety for all snow sports enthusiasts, Bruno McGowan has joined the Overlanding world as part of the founder group at Tune Outdoor. Tune Outdoor was specifically designed to let you spend more time in your natural state, out there, doing cool things . . . again and again.

Brought to you this week by Creative LIVE

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: email: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com​

Or leave me a message on ​Speakpipe​!

Show Notes

[00:04:37] Creating a successful product requires diverse competencies.

[00:07:18] An innovative solution: spacious and outdoor integration with a platform for east-west sleeping.

[00:11:16] Aluminum awning doors with accessories, including bed extension and tinted glass option available.

[00:16:09] Bruno discusses design requirements and material selections for achieving a lightweight space with a high space-to-weight ratio. Molded corner brackets were utilized.

[00:19:17] Stringent quality control requirements throughout the supply chain.

[00:24:26] Organizing their first YouTube user group rally. No details yet.

[00:27:45] Rick's favorite camp spot, Campsite A, is now popular. It's no longer secret.

[00:30:18] Rick and Bruno discuss the possibility of the Outdoor Retailer trade show becoming more consumer-focused.

[00:34:50] Bruno loves coffee and prefers simple, durable coffee-making tools.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Hey everyone, welcome back to The Outdoor Biz podcast and Episode 406. Today, I'm talking with Brian Beckstead, Co-founder of Altra Footwear. After 11 years in the run and outdoor specialty retail space, Brian worked to create Altra Footwear with Golden Harper. He built a sales team as VP of Sales, pioneering the early years of Altra before becoming President. He then worked to finalize and transition of Altra from ICON Health and Fitness to the VF Corporation. Brian currently focuses on Strategic Projects and PR. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys problem-solving and strategizing, usually in the mountains trail running or fly fishing where he says . . . ideas thrive!

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe!   Brought to you this week by The Running Event   https://xpressreg.net/register/trec1123/landing.php?_ga=2.152005433.1022687295.1691361334-1586643052.1687712715&_gac=1.250605940.1691442911.Cj0KCQjwrMKmBhCJARIsAHuEAPSwkzawS-BTZk8QQVlw7teHf2by9ZXr-SLb4At9fncaRCnYUlfatWYaAk6qEALw_wcB&_gl=1*1e38kg0*_ga*MTU4NjY0MzA1Mi4xNjg3NzEyNzE1*_ga_ZZ60R6J5ZD*MTY5MTQ0MjkxMS42LjAuMTY5MTQ0MjkxMS42MC4wLjA. Show Notes

[00:02:15] Initially reluctant, Brian joined the track team in junior high and ended up enjoying it.

[00:06:20] Brian started working at The Running Store at 16, now in the industry for 25 years.

[00:08:26] Two shoe nerds experiment by putting a shoe in a toaster oven and turning it into a flat shoe. we'd always kind of been a little bit In the barefoot movement. we always like to finish our runs doing strides, you know, sprints barefoot on grass

[00:10:12] Since we took out the drop in the shoe, we needed a name for this. And so we coined the term somehow it came up with, we coined the term zero drop. That was our, that was our concept. And so that was something that, uh, with the ultra brand we still use to this day is zero drop

[19:55:09] I had the CEO of ICON, our ownership group, pulled me in one day and he said, Hey, Brian, you know, we really want to take ultra to the moon.

We want you guys to be as big as you possibly can. And he said, we are, uh, we're looking at some investment groups, uh, for Altra. And I was like, what investment groups are you selling us? Like, well, not necessarily. Like we're going to be meeting with some people over the next two weeks. And I ended up meeting with VF a week later, not even knowing that my company was up for sale as founder and president of the president at the time.

So it was a bit of a shock. We were not prepared for that acquisition

[00:14:29] We all had different roles, but we helped each other in every aspect of the business. Golden focused on research and development, Jeremy on website marketing, and I ran the sell side. Golden and I collaborated on designing shoes and I tested them in trail races.

[00:21:38] REI is our biggest account, specializing in Altras. Our focus is on run specialty and full service running stores. We also branch out online but primarily wholesale.

[00:24:16] Angel investor Joe Morton and the narrator's father were influential mentors. Morton took a risk and had a positive influence, while the narrator's dad helped in desperate times.

[00:29:31] I have a daily meditation practice that brings mental clarity and emotional balance, derived from departing a strict religion. It's the most beneficial part of my routine.

Favorite Books: One of my favorites is Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. It's an absolute gem just in terms of the way the brain works. So I find that those types of things very fascinating. I read all sorts of stuff. I'm just reading one right now, Boliviar of Simon Boliviar, who's just amazing, kind of like George Washington of South America.

[00:32:14] Favorite Piece of Outdoor Gear: The Katadyn BeFree 0.6L Water Filter is a convenient way to carry and drink water directly from natural sources like rivers and lakes while fishing or trail running. It is durable, affordable, comes in different sizes, and has an effective filtering system.

[00:34:52] Brian is active on social media and, open to feedback, loves the outdoor exercise industry.

Follow Brian

Instragram

Facebook

Linkedin

Follow Brian

Instragram

Facebook

Linkedin

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 405 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by CreativeLive. This week, I caught up with a former colleague from Lowepro, Frank Felice. Frank is an award-winning marketing executive and board member with over 20 years of experience in storytelling and building brands in the travel, tech, and consumer goods industries. He's now the director of brand marketing at Sonoma County Tourism.

Brought to you this week by CreavitveLive

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

[00:01:30] Frank was raised by outdoorsy parents, I developed a love for outdoor activities. After college, I discovered hiking in Sonoma County.

[00:05:54] "I was feeling stuck coding in the basement, so I switched majors to business and marketing."

[00:08:06] Santa Rosa in Sonoma County offers a variety of activities, including coastal visits, redwood forests, hiking mountains, and Annadale. It also boasts a vibrant food and wine scene, including Russian River Brewery.

[00:11:26] Understanding consumer behaviors helps us drive more visitors to Sonoma County, which generated $2.29 billion in tourism revenue.

[00:13:40] Sonoma County promotes responsible travel as a destination stewardship organization, aiming to preserve and support the local area.

[00:17:19] My dad was a great storyteller; he taught me how to tell a story, and photography took it to another level.

[00:20:53] Red Car Wine offers a unique experience of walking through the forest while practicing forest bathing and drinking wine. Participants slow down, observe nature, and enjoy the vineyards, ultimately feeling transformed and less attached to their phones.

[00:25:36] It is best to visit during the week for fewer crowds and better rates, especially in late fall and early winter. Stay at the coast for a budget-friendly experience of Sonoma County.

[00:27:50] Bodega Bay and Santa Rosa are great for activities. Annadel is good for running and biking. Sonoma County offers various experiences. Sebastopol and Petaluma are also enjoyable.

[00:29:34] Convention and Visitors Bureau generates revenue and support for local communities worldwide. Frank recommends for those interested in tourism to explore their local Convention and Visitors Bureau.

 Frank's favorite outdoor activity growing up

[00:03:49] Skiing

Follow up with Frank

[00:31:05] "LinkedIn is probably the best way to get in touch with me."

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 404 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Fresh Books. This week Cale Genenbacher, founder of LOGE, joins me to tell us how Loge is more than just a place to stay. Think of them as a home base for your next adventure. Close enough to get here but far enough to get away. And, with everything, you could want to get outside and explore. Cale's background as a leader combined with his love of the outdoors and all things active, led him to founding LOGE in 2016. A West Point grad, Cale served as an infantry officer in the Army for over five years. After earning his MBA from Vanderbilt University's Owen Graduate School of Management Cale worked at Microsoft in Seattle, WA, before starting LOGE.

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

Welcome to episode 404 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by FreshBooks. This week, Cale Gennenbacher, founder of LOGE, joins me to tell us how [00:00:50] Lodge is more than just a place to stay.

Think of them as a home base for your next adventure. Close enough to get here, but far enough to get away. And with everything you could want to get outside and [00:01:00] explore. Cale's background as a leader, combined with his love of the outdoors and all things active, led him to founding LOGE in 2016. A West Point grad, Cale served as an infantry [00:01:10] officer in their army for over five years.

After earning his MBA from Vanderbilt University's Owen Graduate School of Management, Cale worked at Microsoft in Seattle before starting LOGE.

Welcome to the show, Cale.

Thanks for having me.

Yeah. Good to catch up with you. You sound like a busy guy. I think you, just, you're all over the place seeing all [00:01:30] the properties and whatnot. That's pretty cool.

Yeah, I know. We're, incredibly busy right now. A lot of travel, but the nice part is, typically a pretty beautiful location. yeah, keep them [00:01:40] busy.

- Good for you. So let's begin with maybe your most adventurous outdoor role, the U. S. Army 101st Airborne. I guess you served five [00:01:50] years a year, which was in Afghanistan. Give us the Twitter version of that adventure. That sounds wild.

Yeah, it was, it was an incredible time. I mean, it feels like a [00:02:00] lifetime ago. But, most of those five years, I was an infantryman, so most of those... Five years were spent outside. And I'll tell you what, like that we're in the Eastern part of Afghanistan, [00:02:10] real close to the border of Pakistan and some of the most beautiful mountains I've been in my life, but, a ton of leadership lessons, a lot of time, I'm a big runner.

And I don't say [00:02:20] that because a lot of time spent, moving and suffering, but, a great experience and, a lot of time in the woods and mountains, which is where I'm happiest. it was an incredible adventure. I don't think you can [00:02:30] replicate it.

I have a good buddy of mine that ran an expedition company over there that did, adventures in those mountains, and just sad to see what happened.

It's amazing. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It's [00:02:40] a, it is a beautiful part of the world. just a tough part of the world for the people that live there and everything else. But, yeah, I mean, it was an incredible adventure and very, shaping [00:02:50] in terms of, life, especially at that age.

-So then after the army, you went and got your MBA from Vanderbilt. What inspired that move?

Yeah. it [00:03:00] was, I actually love the army and, had planned to spend a lot more time there than what I did. My wife was in the army as well. She was a Black Hawk pilot and we [00:03:10] found out we were having our first kid.

And we hadn't, we didn't see each other very much in the army and, didn't want to necessarily kind of do that with our first daughter in terms of not being there. [00:03:20] And yeah, I had, I, I wish I could say I had a huge strategy, but I just knew that I didn't know what I actually wanted to do after the army.

And so my thought was, going to [00:03:30] business school, I wanted to go to, a great business school, which Vanderbilt certainly is. to kind of immerse myself back in the business world and figure out, truly what I wanted to do. So it was, [00:03:40] it was a family move, as much as anything else to kind of chart the next path in my life post army.

-That makes sense. Yeah. So let's get back to the outdoors. Did you camp or hike or hunt [00:03:50] fish as a kid?

Yeah. I mean, I grew up in central Illinois, there's not like skiing and rock climbing. All those things aren't a big part of life, but we definitely hunted [00:04:00] and fished a lot of, ball sports to baseball, soccer, football, but, deer and Turkey, my brother did a little bit more, duck too.

And then, fishing, but it's,[00:04:10] pond and lake crappie large mouth bass, but, everything in the outdoors as a kid. and a lot of, yeah, a lot of hunting and fishing more than I do now. I wish I could actually do a little more fish than what I actually do. So [00:04:20] that's a great place for that back there too.

I grew up in that County and Adams and Pike County. massive will tell the air, and then [00:04:30] you can fish, but I don't know that a lot of the stuff that you pull out of the Mississippi, you actually want to touch, but yeah, absolute, awesome area to kind of grow up outdoors, a [00:04:40] lot of different, I, I don't really hunt too much anymore, primarily because of time and other hobbies and kids and whatnot, but yeah,

I grew up in the outdoors and more in [00:04:50] the hook and bullet world than in the adventure world that we're in now. I just got back from Kansas and it's, it's very unlike Bishop, but there's a lot of hunting and fishing. [00:05:00] Yeah. A high school buddy of mine's dad has that. They have a family ranch back there. So we went back and hung out there. Totally fun. it's good time. very different. there's beautiful outdoor places all over the [00:05:10] country. Like I'm a big believer that, Yeah. I mean, it's easy to be snobbish about, the height of the mountain or whatever, but , is the Rolling Hills in Kansas or some of the,[00:05:20] kind of wooded areas back in, in Illinois or, anywhere else in the country.

There's some beautiful areas. yeah. Yeah, it was, and Midwest is great people too, so it's a good place to be from. Yeah, [00:05:30] exactly.

-And how did you connect with Lodge?

yeah, I Co founded LOGE back in, in 2016, part of, not being sure what I wanted to [00:05:40] do now to the army. I went to Vanderbilt and that's where I actually started working on it. after a little bit of time, I realized. I was passionate about entrepreneurship and, someday I wanted [00:05:50] to, own and run my own business. And I had spent so many weekends in the army just trying to get away from the base and get outside, whether that be [00:06:00] to run or climb or bike or ski.

And I was always kind of staying either at a really crappy mom-and-pop hotel or, staying 45 minutes away at a Holiday Inn. [00:06:10] So I didn't always want to camp. And as I thought about all those experiences when I was in business school, I was [00:06:20] actually on a long run and I was planning a trip in my head for my wife and I and our daughter to go to East Tennessee.

And I thought, man, if there was just a place, where,[00:06:30] I knew it was going to be a great place to stay, but there's community and gear there. Cause I was still renting a lot of gear versus owning it. I was like, man, if someone could just do that in the places that [00:06:40] I go all the time, every other weekend, like that'd be incredible.

And that's when I kind of clicked. I'm like, oh, I could do that. Yeah. Yeah. founded a lodge [00:06:50] just about a year out of business school.

-Oh, wow. And so you guys have 11 locations, right?

Yeah. We actually have a few more that we haven't technically [00:07:00] announced yet. So right now, including some that we don't, that we haven't announced yet, we have 17. So it should all open between now and the end of next summer.

-Very cool. Do you have a favorite?[00:07:10] it's like asking which, which is your favorite?

yes and no, no, not a true favorite, but [00:07:20] you know, Westport, Washington was our first property.

And I still think when you show up, to Westport on a summer weekend. [00:07:30] And this is an intangible, but the vibe is like nothing I've ever experienced at any other place I've stayed. It is like what I imagine life, you show up and there's [00:07:40] people, cooking and sharing food in the outdoor kitchen and kids are all running around and there's, fires and music and surf.

It's just, It's the type of vibe that, we seek to replicate, within every [00:07:50] other property we do. And in many ways, I think that one, Westport, has a special place in my heart.

I think your first one always does, too. I don't have kids, but your first kid always does, too. I'm a firstborn, [00:08:00] so I know what that's about.

yeah. Yeah, totally. yeah, it's, yeah, a great place, and we'll definitely be the leader among equals, maybe.

-Very cool. [00:08:10] I guess you've been with... Longer than five years you were thinking about it. Yeah. Way, way back. Are there a couple of accomplishments there that you're most proud of? Some deals that were hard to [00:08:20] do?

you got the place and realized, holy cow, this is more work than we thought.

Maybe the whole thing has been that, it's all more work than we thought. I, [00:08:30] yeah, a couple of things. one, I would say is just surviving. I don't think anyone tells you going into business, how hard it is to just [00:08:40] survive, Nonetheless, to grow, but just to survive. and I, when I think of my head back to, the onset of COVID and 2020, we were only, we're a little less than [00:08:50] two and a half years old as a company. and we knew we were raising capital then to survive. man, the amount of kind of sleepless nights and grit to navigate that.

Yeah. [00:09:00] And so that leads me, I think one of the biggest accomplishments is just the team. Like the people that we've been able to have on our team and work with [00:09:10] is incredible, and that have kind of come together with a belief in the concept. It's pretty incredible. And I'm really proud of it because it's, Lodge is a young company and a growing company [00:09:20] and faces challenges all over the place.

And. When you look at, the people on our team and how they work together and just continually solve problems, [00:09:30] I'm always incredibly proud of the team that we've built and what they do both at lodge, developing new properties and our general managers and our team, [00:09:40] it's, Incredible.

So that would have to be, number one for me. And then, number two, I think would be like just getting our first property. open, like we were,[00:09:50] we would go pitch investors and then go, clean a room and then go, obviously after washing your hands, go make a latte and check out surfboards.

I mean, just doing everything. And then [00:10:00] before it even opened, We're out there, landscaping and framing walls and all those things. So just getting that first one open, there's just so many things working against you [00:10:10] to do that. And then, I think the other reason is I used to joke with people all the time when they say, what's your background in hospitality?

I said, actually, I used to have the most [00:10:20] inhospitable. job in the world, I was an infantryman. And so I think, yeah. So coming from that, background and being able to open a place where you can hear the conversations around the fire and people are [00:10:30] just having fun. I think some of those, whenever I show the property, I see guests and like the community gathering in a way that we wanted to happen.

that's when it [00:10:40] just, that makes everything worth it. the team and getting properties open and just anytime I see. our kind of guests and crew, interacting. Those are the kind of the most proud things for me. [00:10:50]

-That's pretty cool. how big is your team now?

our headquarters team, is 17 people. And then, all the properties. full teams of incredible [00:11:00] people from general managers to our hosts and our housekeepers. so pretty good sized team across all the properties. Yeah.

-That's amazing. So what would you say has been the most challenging?

Obviously [00:11:10] there's, everyone's different and the whole project itself is a big challenge. Is there any one thing that says, God, every time we do this, it's a pain in the butt. [00:11:20] yeah, I think I would say communicating vision. Is it's always challenging with every new with every property that [00:11:30] we do every camp that we do, we don't want them to be the same.

We wanted to have similar threads in terms of, the access to the outdoors and gear and [00:11:40] outdoor amenities and the food and beverage, but we don't want them to be the place and the people in that place. And I go to that place. And what we've certainly found is whether [00:11:50] it be, communicating with potential designers or team members or, a lot of folks jumped to what I call the. Google page one result. [00:12:00] And it's so much, it's so much deeper than that. And it takes a long time to truly communicate the vision for what we want a [00:12:10] property to become, because oftentimes what you see, when we're buying it or when we're designing it is so radically different than what it will become, [00:12:20] not only on what the spaces, are, but you know, what they will be, oftentimes we're going to take down walls and so communicating vision is, if you ask me at the start, hey, [00:12:30] communicating vision, where do you think that's going to be in terms of your shot? I would have said Number 580 on the list and it's probably, it's probably number one. yeah,

-that's interesting. And do you guys must [00:12:40] have a pretty detailed onboarding program and all those things for new folks and whatnot? And each property I bet has its own manifesto, if you will. I mean, you write that vision a million times, [00:12:50] probably created a million times.

A hundred percent. Yeah. I mean, you have all the checklists and those really help you kind of onboard and get open. But what we [00:13:00] really try to do and why, communicating vision is so important is I, I am not only my unable to, I shouldn't make all the decisions for the lodge, right? We have [00:13:10] so many smart people, so many great people that all themselves have so many experiences and value add the outdoor. So [00:13:20] we want to communicate vision so that they can under our vision and our purpose, which we talk a lot about as a company so that they can make a decision themselves and they're empowered [00:13:30] to do And so it's just, whether it be on design or operations, the kind of vision and purpose is just so important.

Sometimes I feel like a broken record with how much I talk about purpose, but those are, [00:13:40] it's huge for our business. they're really complex. I mean, I don't care who you are. I mean, if you do a right, it's complex. It's hard. Yeah. Yeah. Which it probably should be. I know it should be.[00:13:50] it's a 24 7, 365 business, right? Yeah, Your experience is shaped at every touchpoint, so it's a lot.

-I think I recently read that you added [00:14:50] Wolf Creek. Tell us about your process for selecting new locations. That's got to be probably pretty challenging as well, I would think.

It is. [00:15:00] And it's definitely an art as, as much as a science,we have, we kind of start big picture and say, Hey, at least in the near term, [00:15:10] this is where we won't be, and we'll have a region and then we'll define, okay, these are the cities and places or areas that, that [00:15:20] we want to be, and then we go there,we go there, we get a feel for this town versus that town, what is the vibe we go to the trails, we go to the, [00:15:30] climbing spots and crags, we go to the ski mountain, we say, like, where does it make sense for us to be, and then oftentimes, we'll just begin talking with people, right?

I don't think there's any [00:15:40] substitute in business for speaking with people, even though I think it's put pretty far. And say, where do you go? What trailheads are most popular? Do a lot of people stay at the mountain or are they actually driving down? [00:15:50] And we have a kind of, maybe more scientific process to narrow it down, to kind of pretty tight regions and then it's going to get on the ground and get enough fuel for it.

And Wolf Creek [00:16:00] is one of those areas, That just has intangibles that we love. I mean, it's,it's not on, it might not be necessarily on the national radar, but it definitely should be on the [00:16:10] regional radar, right? It's, incredible skiing, the most snow in Colorado, but it, to me, it feels like, true Colorado, get off 70, get into the, one of those great climbing, incredible fishing.[00:16:20] and mountain biking, and then obviously the snow. it's one of those places that we honed in on and we absolutely love. I think,again, maybe getting away from a little page one [00:16:30] results of, outdoor places in Colorado, maybe, South Fork area isn't number one, but it should be up there. It's one of those special places that we want to help people discover. Yeah. [00:16:40]

Very cool. A good buddy that I fish with a lot. We used to have a term for that, low getting information from the locals because every time you go fly fishing, the first place you go is the fly shop [00:16:50] because you want to get the local knowledge, right?

You need the local knowledge. We need to know what bugs are biting, what time, where temperate blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. So that there's [00:17:00] nothing that can replace that local knowledge. I don't care where you go in the world.

And that's a big part of, as we open camps, we want to be able to help do that, [00:17:10] For our guests, like help, be that local. And that's part of why, I mean, Locals coming and hanging out on our properties, whether it be for cafes or music or movies or events, like it's a big part [00:17:20] of our business. And it's something that we encourage. Cause there's no, there is no substitute, no matter where in the world you go for that, that ultra local intelligence.

-So is there anything new in the pipeline you can talk about?

There's a lot, we'd to be in, we'd like to be in your neck of the woods, here pretty [00:17:40] soon we're working on. I wish we could say we have something, more firm than what we do. and then, we actually in Asheville, North Carolina, recently bought a place that we're [00:17:50] incredibly excited about. And I mentioned it cause we're, we're really looking to build in that area too, like generally, and, in the Southeast more, and, I spent a fair bit of time in the [00:18:00] Southeast when I was in the army and love what it has to offer outside of Asheville,there's a number of spots that we're looking at. And then, right now, what we're trying to scout for. That's a little bit [00:18:10] tougher. It's just more surf properties. we got a lot of those other properties that kind of get 17 are ski and mountain bike and everything else. And so surf [00:18:20] is a big part of where we found ourselves, maybe lighter in terms of kind of the pipeline and what we're working on. it's not a hard ask to tell your folks on the team, Hey, we need to do [00:18:30] about this market out on the coast, not to go to the beach for a month.

-Oh, yeah, that's cool. Awesome. So will [00:18:40] LOGE always be US based or do you have plans to add international locations?

Oh yeah, no, we're, we are, or are you already in No, in, not, we are working on [00:18:50] Canada right now. Okay. So several properties in the hopper. not as part of that, 17 I mentioned earlier, but we're really excited, to go to Canada first. I think it's a. especially, [00:19:00] we started in the Seattle area and,when I lived up there, going into BC was a really a natural connection. and we also own a number of things in the Northeast. And going up into,the [00:19:10] Montreal area and everything else, those are really natural connections to us.

And I think people that are in the outdoors too, those are, North of the border. There's some incredible places to ski, hike, climb, [00:19:20] fish. And yeah, we're focused on that in the near future. Hopefully. We can get a couple of open next year. That's what we're going to do. Some great areas up around BANFF. One of the, one of the first properties we started looking at, was up there, in Kenmore, which is, outside of, right outside of BANFF.[00:19:40] yeah. Unbelievable. I really hope that we can get something up there.

-Yeah, cool. So let's shift gears a little bit. In addition to running, it sounds like you do all the outdoor activities, right? Anything you don't do? [00:19:50]

Yeah. No, not, I mean, there's a lot of things I don't do well. I feel same here. yeah. I feel like I'm, definitely like the jack of all trades, master of none.

No, I do a lot [00:20:00] of trail running. rock climbing, skiing, back streets. I grew up fishing, in the last couple of years, I've started to fly fish a little bit more. I'd love to do, [00:20:10] I'd love to spend more time doing it. And, I think what I, don't do as much, it's just I don't know what hobby gives is mountain biking.

I have daughters and we're, they're [00:20:20] kind of getting an age where they're excited to get into mountain biking. And so we need to get some new bikes and get out on the trail. But I think I, I do most of them don't really do [00:20:30] any, but I love doing them all. Yeah. That's part of the challenge for those of us that do all the things, It's really hard to be, you could probably be pretty dang good at a couple of them. It's [00:20:40] hard to be good at all of them.

-Do you have any suggestions or advice for folks wanting to get into the adventure biz, outdoor biz?

You know, I would [00:20:50] say it, it's a, it goes back to, one of the things I said about is you got to go talk to people.

I think in the outdoor business, there's no substitute for sitting down [00:21:00] across from people and talking to them. I think, the outdoor businesses is a lot more tightly networked than I would have guessed,six or seven years ago. And go to the shows, go to the seals, [00:21:10] talk to, figure out what part of the industry you're interested in and show up and talk to people because.

It can seem like a, tough, part of the business to crack into, but people are so incredibly welcoming if you can [00:21:20] just kind of sit down and chat with them. So I would just say. find the spot that those people are and, get yourself there and with a little bit of a budget to buy some coffee and beer for folks and, you'll find yourself in the right spot pretty [00:21:30] quick.

-Do you have a favorite piece of outdoor gear under a hundred dollars?

I would probably say a [00:21:40] Leatherman. that's a good one. Yeah. it just, you get a good left man for 65 bucks and I don't, it almost doesn't matter what sport I'm doing.

I feel like one with an [00:21:50] arm's reach. Camping, climbing in a, bottom of a,pack while climbing or backcountry skiing or whatever it is. I feel like I almost always have a Leatherman by me and it saves [00:22:00] my butt more times than I'd care to admit.

-As we finish up, is there anything else you'd like to say to or ask of our listeners?

yeah, I mean, [00:22:10] first go explore the place near your home. I think we're, we have this, we, we fetishize, Jackson Hole and Whistler and those type of places, I [00:22:20] think regardless of whether you're in Kansas or Bishop or Utah, I think there's some pretty incredible and overlooked places right outside your back door. And, so I would [00:22:30] encourage people to do that. And I think along the way, if you find yourself, close to the lodge, then go check it out. Even if you're not staying there, we're, yeah, we want to just be a spot for the community to come [00:22:40] together, whether it be to get, that local Intel on what's biting or, just to have a beer and hang out with other people that are like minded.

Those would be, I think the things that I would encourage people [00:22:50] to do. 

-Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up?

Probably, email or [00:23:20] LinkedIn. I'm not on, on the socials, as they say, really not on Twitter, Instagram, or, any of those things, LinkedIn [00:23:30] is probably the place where I am the most about all the socials, but still probably not all that much. Probably the easiest place to track me down.  

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 403 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Fresh Books. This week Brittany Coleman, founder of a new women's outdoor and lifestyle brand called Tough Cutie joins me. ToughCutie makes premium women's hiking socks and has a larger mission of supporting women from the ground up and increasing diversity in the outdoors. Founded in 2019, Tough Cutie has become the first and only outdoor sock brand with a majority women-owned value chain, and joins an estimated 1% of founders in the outdoor industry who identify as a person of color.

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

Where did the idea for ToughCutie come from?

The idea for ToughCutie came from the experiences of being a woman in business and the outdoor industry. It's about challenging the idea that women can't be both tough and feminine.

When did you launch?

ToughCutie launched just over a year ago, but the founder worked on the business for several years before the official launch.

Are you a member of the REI Path Ahead Ventures program?

Yes, ToughCutie is a member of the REI Path Ahead Ventures program.

How did you get involved with REI?

Brittany got connected to REI through an Instagram live interview with a prominent figure in the outdoor industry. Several people at REI saw the interview and reached out to initiate a conversation.

What stage of business development would you say you're at, still in the launch phase?

ToughCutie has launched its first product and is now working on the next one. The business is continually evolving and launching new products.

Who does all the design, product management, etc. - is it you?

Initially, Brittany was heavily involved in design and product management. As the brand has grown, she's started working with designers and other professionals.

Why socks?

Brittany's background was in the sock category of the outdoor industry. She recognized the opportunity to create a women's sock brand that challenges stereotypes.

Are there socks for guys in your future?

While ToughCutie primarily focuses on women's socks, men have also purchased and appreciated the socks. There is no specific mention of developing socks exclusively for men.

How many doors are you in, excluding REI?

ToughCutie is in approximately 30 stores, excluding REI.

Who was your first customer outside of REI?

Title IX was the first customer outside of REI. They became a customer after the founder won a competition called "Movers and Makers."

Where is your manufacturing?

ToughCutie manufactures its products in the United States, primarily in the South, and works with women-owned companies in its supply chain.

Tell us about your first outdoor adventure.

Brittany's first outdoor adventure was a trip to Mount Zion with their church, where she did a baptism. It was a significant and authentic outdoor experience.

Do you have any suggestions and/or advice for folks wanting to start an Outdoor Brand?

Start by understanding your customer and what problems you're solving for them. Build a community and invite people to be a part of your journey. Get feedback early on.

Do you have a favorite piece of outdoor gear under $100?

Two favorite pieces mentioned were the Kula Cloth, a pea cloth, and the Lucy inflatable lanterns for ambiance.

What are a couple of your favorite books?

"The Song of Achilles" and "The Outsiders" are two of Brittany's favorite books.

Where can people find you if they'd like to follow up (email, Twitter, Instagram, etc)?

Brittany's email is: bcoleman@toughcutie.com and she can also be found on LinkedIn. The brand can also be found on Instagram and their website, toughcutie.com.

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 402 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Lowa. This week Lowa Ambassador Max Seigal and his race partner Russell Henry share their 1st Adventure Race experience with us as they took 1st place in the recent Expedition Colorado Race put on by Warrior Adventure Racing. The race involved kayaking, mountain biking and running at elevations between 13,000 and 10,000 feet . . . Max and Russell were wearing Lowa's recently released Trail Running models from their All Terrain Running Collection. The ATR collection represents another milestone in Lowa's nearly 100 years of product development. Now . . . it's time to run.

 

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

00:02:2000:02:27
The Wandering Biologist: "So after college, I actually sorted all the jobs that I was looking for based on location first..."— Max Seigal

00:03:1000:03:14
Outdoor Adventures: "I grew up on the West Coast of British Columbia with Aaron...and my dad owned an outdoor store, Ocean River Sports and started a Kayak company, "— Russell Henry

00:05:2600:05:35
The Power of Nature: "Once you put me in the mountains or and these really beautiful and remote places. It's you just you can't describe that feeling you get. It's amazing."— Max Seigal

00:06:4500:07:07
The Thrill of Paddling White Water: "I find spending time on rivers and paddling white water to be such a full-bodied experience. It's just with, like, you're fully immersed in it... It's the contrast of the whole thing of getting ready for the river beforehand, then you do the crazy thing and you're in there and you're scared and it's thundering, and it's like wet and cooled. And then afterwards, you get off the river, and now it's baking hot, and you take your dry suit off and your love and life, and you're there with your best friends."— Russell Henry

00:08:3300:08:47
The Love for Individual Sports: "Once you're done with your high school sports days, it's like you gotta figure something else out and that's when I really started falling in love with just getting out and, you know, running and hiking and camping and mountain all these sort of individual sports that I still really love."— Max Seigal

00:09:2300:09:41
Trail Running Shoes: "And this new lineup of, their ATRs is is just released this year. It's kind of their more trail running approach. And I've been really excited for this for a long time because, you know, you can only do so much in a hiking shoe of running shoes. Now you're like, you get the trifecta. You can get out and do it all."— Max Seigal

00:11:2600:11:40
Adventure Racing: "Adventure racing, it's kind of, funny sport in that You're basically out in the woods for set amount of time on a really big scavenger hunt."— Russell Henry

00:12:48:04
The Power of Pushing Limits: "Just keep going. Like, I think people think it's amazing that we can do this kind of race or that adventure racers do this stuff. But really, if you're an enough person outdoorsy, just like you'll you can just As long as you don't sit down too often, you just your body will keep going if you keep feeling it and and you can do some amazing things."— Russell Henry

00:18:0100:18:11
Foot Care Regime for Races: "They sand all the calluses off their feet, basically leading up to the race, and then they're moisturizing and moisturizing with salt through the night. basically trying to make their feet as soft as they can."— Russell Henry

00:27:0600:27:12
Struggling with Overeating during a Race: "I think I ate too much food. I'm like, so tired. My stomach hurts."— Max Seigal

00:28:5600:29:03
Altitude Troubles: I just, like, started feeling the altitude so heavily and was not in a good place."— Russell Henry

00:29:4900:29:53
Sleep Deprivation and Altitude Sickness: 'I was a total wreck and then eventually got back on my bike'"— Russell Henry

00:32:1100:32:12
The Challenges of Sleep Deprivation in Endurance Races: "I did not sleep at all."— Max Seigal

00:32:3700:33:01
Sleeping through the pain: "I guess this is over. And we're kinda done. But, Russ, I think if I can sit up and sleep, like, maybe I can get an hour of sleep sitting up and Let's see if that works. So we set our alarms for, like, another hour and a half, and he sat up and somehow he, like, slept for an hour. And woke up, and he's like, alright. I guess we're gonna keep going. And so -- Wow."— Max Seigal

00:37:0000:37:24
Adventuring with Friends: "We just wanted to do something together. We wanted to meet up and go on an adventure. And my new Max was a crusher in the mountains, so I think if I can't remember me or him found the race, but then we just said this is perfect. Let's like because also when we were working together on the ship, week on this polar tourism ship together. Last thing, Max was helping me train for an adventure race that I did in May. So I was running in the gym with him, and he we were doing things together. So it was kinda cool to then get to do one with him."— Russell Henry

00:37:3500:37:42
Scheduling: "The issue is we both live very busy and kind of, opposite lives right now in terms of scheduling."— Max Seigal

00:38:3000:39:15
Top Adventure Racing Events to Aim For: I think having [Expedition Oregon] as a goal to try to do well in would be really cool."— Russell Henry

00:39:4900:40:02
Adventure Racing: "There's so many little adventure racing intricacies of, like, things we've talked about, like, foot care and how do you hydrate and how often do you sleep and how do you sleep and all these little things that you learn."— Russell Henry

00:44:4800:44:59
The Power of Teammate Bonding: "Honestly, to me, the most important thing is having that teammate or your teammates that kind of inspire you, but also that you just have great banter with and kind of love to hang out with...I was just like, what's with my buddy? I was like, here we are. Just chit chatting and walking and biking and having a good time. And, like, that to me made it just so much more fun..."— Max Seigal

00:47:2100:47:34
Adventure Race: "Honestly, it was like, one of the best weeks of my life, you know, just you're discovering things about yourself. You're discovering, like, how hard you can push yourself? How hard you can go without sleep? how long you can bike and run in the mountains. And, you know, chemistry with a person, like, for that much time, it's just so much discovery, and it's a really good feeling to finish up and be like, wow. I just learned a lot about myself."— Max Seigal

Suggestions or advice for someone wanting to do their first adventure race or get into adventure racing

Max: I'd say go for it. Adventure race. This was my first one. Russell had done a couple and he's like, dude, let's try this. I had no idea what to expect, but honestly, it was like one of the best weeks of my life.

Russell: Just look it up. And I think once you look it up, you see that there's actually lots of races around. You can sign up for something small to start. You can do something small to see if you like it.

Favorite piece of Outdoor Gear under $100

Max- the most important things I think are like a good pair of shoes that you can run a lot of miles in and then not get blisters that fit your feet.

Russell- outdoor research sun shirt men's, women's

Follow up:

with Max: www.maxwilderness.com

with Russell: instagram.com/russellfrederickhenry/

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, and Share!

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Eugene Buchanan drops by for a deep dive into a life built around rivers, paddling, and epic adventure. He's a former editor-in-chief of Paddler magazine, founder of Paddling Life, a Fellow of the Explorers Club, a renowned author, and a man whose stories span over 30 countries and six continents.

Show Notes

WHAT HAPPENED:

I never planned to make a living from rivers. In fact, if you had asked me back in college, I was more focused on seasonal raft guiding and avoiding any "real job" that required shoes.

But then a friend called. He had a permit for the Grand Canyon. I packed up, strapped a kayak to my car, and drove down the Alcan Highway. That trip changed everything.

I met my wife on that river.

Then I quit my job. Took freelance writing gigs. Burned my vacation time to chase rivers in Peru and Ecuador. Eventually, I found myself editing a national paddling magazine... and later, starting my own.

I've paddled in Siberia with Latvians who made rafts from military gear and soccer balls. I've seen the rise of pack rafts, drone scouting, and GPS maps. I've watched river communities form in the unlikeliest places. And I've learned the hard way—like, "class V in the Colombian jungle, middle-of-nowhere, CPR-on-the-rocks" kind of hard—that rivers don't care about your itinerary.

PRINCIPLE:

The river doesn't just test your skills. It reveals your priorities. It reminds you that life—like paddling—isn't about control. It's about choosing the current that calls to you… and having the right crew with you when it all goes sideways.

TRANSITION:

Too many people think paddling is just about adrenaline. But the truth is, most folks never get beyond the weekend warrior stage—not because they lack passion, but because they don't have a crew, a guide, or a map for what's next.

They want to explore more, but they don't know where to start. Or worse—they overestimate what they can handle and end up burned out, discouraged, or worse.

THAT'S WHY:

That's why this episode with Eugene Buchanan is such a gift. It's not just a story about rivers—it's a deep dive into how adventure becomes a lifestyle, a career, and a calling. From Siberia to the Yampa, Eugene shows what's possible when you follow your curiosity and stay in the current long enough to let it shape you.

CALL TO ACTION:

If you've ever wondered if you have what it takes to go from weekend paddle trips to something bigger—this is the episode you need. Don't wait for perfect weather. Don't wait until you "feel ready." The river's already flowing. Jump in.

👉 Listen to the full episode now.

Welcome to episode 401 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by The Running Event. The world is a wonderful place full of exciting adventures. And I don't let much stop me from getting out and enjoying those adventures. but sometimes . . . the bugs, particularly mosquitos here in the Eastern Sierra . . . can be relentless. So I use natural repellants from PARA'KITO®. PARA'KITO® wants you to embrace this world, to travel, to explore, to enjoy its beauty, all naturally free from the nuisance of insects. PARA'KITO® is your caring, natural, effective protection. And Tracey Brown is with me today to explain how they protect us from the harmful bites from mosquitos ticks and other nasty buggers.

Brought to you by

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

[00:01:38] Malaria kills thousands worldwide each year, now a concern in the US.

[00:06:13] Our 1-inch polymer product slowly diffuses essential oil fragrance for 2 weeks. Waterproof and effective within a 4-foot radius. Amazing.

[00:09:59] Different countries have unique regulations for FDA equivalents, resulting in variations in product formulations, including essential oils used.

[00:13:26] The US military still issues DEET despite its dangers.

[00:18:42] Exciting, natural insect repellant by Evergreenland and French trio. Successful brand solving problems, growing adoption.

[00:20:34] Entry-level opportunities in the outdoor industry can bring joy and open doors, regardless of experience. Embrace any role to get started.

Favorite piece of outdoor gear under $100- "it's the ramp that I use to get my Old golden retriever in and out of my car."

Favorite Books: Sunset and Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine

Check us out at parakito. com. It's P A R A K I T O, and use the code FAMILY for 50% off of whatever you buy on the website.

Follow up with Tracey: at tracey@parakito.com and on LinkedIn 

 

Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, and Share!

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Welcome to episode 400 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast. Dakota Lithium CEO Andrew Jay joins us to share how we each have the opportunity to change how our communities use energy.

Brought to you by:

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

Things we talked about:

[00:01:56] Outdoor upbringing on San Juan Island, seeking role models in nature.

[00:04:38] Interesting life chapter: backpacking, Canada, climbing, Africa, stability.

[00:07:17] 7 years working, kids, childhood education, Scandinavian forest schools.

00:7:23 created Tiny Trees Preschool

[00:10:17] Innovative electric bike creator, Hill Topper bikes rapidly succeeds.

[00:14:45] Developed kayak fan generating electricity with solar panel.

[00:18:07] Dakota Lithium really stands out as the longest lasting batteries with 11-year warranty.

[00:21:16] Sales grew during the pandemic, surprising expectations.

[00:24:36] Motorcycle batteries last 10-15 years with warranty.

[00:26:20] Family camping trips, rock climbing enthusiast. Steep, well-protected climbs.

[27:15:08] Andrew's Advice for folks wanting to get into the outdoor biz or bootstrap something like he did?

[00:28:54] Climbinghosen, similar to a German Lederhosen.

[00:29:33] Favorite piece of outdoor gear under 100? 

[00:31:21] We're offering a 10% discount code to podcast listeners. So you can use the code OUTDOORBIZ at DakotaLithium. com, and get 10% off your next order.

Follow up with Andrew: "You can find me on dakotalithium.com. You can just search for "energy" or CEO. You can also find me on LinkedIn."

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.

Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, and Share!

Welcome to episode 399 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Thrive Market. Is that novel of yours "still" rolling around in your brain? Outdoor Author Chad Adams describes the path that took him from writing articles about duck hunting, hundreds of weekly newsletter editorials, and ghostwriting for executives to his recently published first novel, How To Walk In the Marsh.

Shoot Chad a message over on Instagram, "the first two people that send me a message, I'll send them a code to have access to a free copy of the audio book."

Brought to you this week by Thrive Market

Facebook Twitterhttps://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorbizpodcast/Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   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: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Show Notes

Things we talked about:

[00:01:29] Chad describes a personal connection to fishing and a family legacy.

[00:04:45] Chad talks about his experiences fishing and hunting, particularly duck hunting, and how these activities were passed down from father to son.

[00:08:08] How Chad got connected through his Dad connecting him to a writing opportunity through his social skills, and he started earning as a writer.

[00:10:59] Chad tells us how he worked for the same company for 20 years, starting with writing a corporate newsletter and eventually gaining the confidence to write messages for executives.

[00:15:13] He is open to writing anything, enjoys the process, and appreciates the therapeutic aspect.

[00:19:56] Chad discusses the significance of quiet moments outdoors, passing down traditions, facing adversity, and reconnecting with one's roots. He also hints at a personal story involving his relationship with his father and raising their own children.

Chad's Book

Chad's Advice if you want to be a writer

"Don't delay, start writing and fulfill your dream."

Favorite Books

Into the Wild by John Krakauer

The Servant by James Hunter

Favorite piece of outdoor gear under 100?

We do all of our hunting and fishing, mostly in salt water. So, this might sound simple, but a good dry box goes a long way, man, because shotgun shells and salt water . . . that doesn't mix well, you gotta keep your gear dry. 

Follow Up with Chad

Instagram

Facebook

Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.