Sports + Outdoor Mentors – Details, episodes & analysis

Join us in this episode of Sports and Outdoor Mentors as we sit down with Matt Barr, co-founder and co-owner of All Conditions Media, to explore his unique path from travelling the globe as a snowboarder to leading a successful action sports media agency. 

Matt talks candidly about the early days of writing for snowboard magazines, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and adapting to a rapidly changing industry. 

Whether you're into action sports or business innovation, Matt’s story is packed with valuable insights. Tune in, and don’t forget to subscribe and share!

Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.

Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.

Follow Matt

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-barr-090b1516/

Follow ACM (All Conditions Media)

https://www.linkedin.com/company/all-conditions-media/

Follow Looking Sideways

https://www.wearelookingsideways.com https://www.youtube.com/@lookingsidewaysactionsport791

Follow Dan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

00:00 - Introduction 

03:00 - Matt discusses his early passion for skateboarding, snowboarding, and journalism.

05:00 - Serendipitous start in the industry and the influence of friends and mentors.

07:00 - Transitioning from freelance writing to co-founding ACM with Chris Moran.

10:00 - Importance of having a strong peer group and mentors.

12:00 - Evolution of his career from freelance work to business ownership.

14:00 - Learning on the job and the entrepreneurial spirit behind ACM.

17:00 - Challenges in the action sports industry.

19:00 - Impact of the 2008 financial crisis 

22:00 - ACM's transition to remote work in 2020 and its impact on company culture.

24:00 - The decision to become an employee-owned business.

27:00 - The importance of empowering employees and fostering a strong internal culture.

30:00 - Reflection on lessons learned,

32:00 - Matt’s advice for future leaders in the industry

In this heartening episode of “Sports & Outdoor Mentors,” we explore the relentless pursuit of dreams with Manu and JC, the dynamic duo behind the iconic surf brand Oxbow. 

With over five decades of collective experience in the sports and outdoor industry, they share their journey through the highs and lows of leadership, from overcoming monumental challenges to acquiring Oxbow. 

Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of people, and the impact of upholding your values and vision. 

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode offers invaluable insights into turning adversity into opportunity, underscoring the crucial role of conviction and community in achieving success. 

If you enjoy this episode, remember to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to support the channel!

Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.

Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.

Follow Manu

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanuel-debrueres-308aa8a8/

Follow JC

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcchetail/

Follow Oxbow

https://www.linkedin.com/company/oxbow-sa/

https://www.youtube.com/@OXBOW1985

Follow Dan 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

#sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 - Introduction

03:15 - Early interest in sports and start in the industry.

07:30 - Insights into career paths, key roles, and pivotal moments.

12:50 - Partnership dynamics, complementary skills, and shared values.

18:40 - Challenges and learnings from the Oxbow acquisition

25:05 - Importance of trust and respect in partnership and overcoming business hurdles.

30:15 - Management philosophy focusing on the crucial role of people

35:40 - Balancing work and personal life

41:30 - Lessons from past career experiences and the value of continuous learning

47:20 - Reflections on the initial year after acquiring Oxbow, handling surprises, and the pandemic’s impact.

53:00 - Leadership advice for the industry’s future leaders on confidence and collaboration.

58:00 - Closing

Join us in this riveting episode of "Sports and Outdoor Mentors" as we dive into the inspiring journey of Amanda Calder-McLaren, the CMO of Montirex and former North Face executive.

Discover how Amanda transitioned from a gospel choir singer in North London to a key player in the outdoor sports industry.

We discuss her bold moves and fearless questions that defined her career path, her pivotal role during The North Face's explosive growth, and her dedication to making the outdoors accessible as chair of the nonprofit "Opening Up the Outdoors”.

Amanda shares invaluable insights on overcoming industry stereotypes, the importance of mentorship, and the drive to keep the outdoor community inclusive and vibrant.

Whether you're an aspiring marketer, outdoor enthusiast, or someone curious about career evolution, Amanda's story offers a wealth of motivation and strategies for professional growth.

🚀 Before you dive in, remember less than 50% of our listeners are subscribed. Click that Subscribe button to join our community and keep up with inspiring stories like Amanda’s! 🌟

Enjoy the episode, and don't forget to leave your thoughts in the comments below. Your support helps us reach more listeners with valuable insights and inspiring journeys. Thanks for tuning in!

Amanda's Book Recommendations:

📌 The Culture Map: Decoding How People Think, Lead, and Get Things Done Across Cultures by Erin Meyer - https://amzn.to/3Ue7aTy (Amazon Affiliate)

Follow Amanda

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-calder-mclaren-57702a19/

Follow Montirex

https://www.linkedin.com/company/montirex/

https://www.youtube.com/@UCY-4funyjxTJ_AIi79lQCxQ

https://www.instagram.com/montirex/

Follow Opening Up The Outdoors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/opening-up-the-outdoors/

https://www.instagram.com/openinguptheoutdoors/

Follow Dan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

#sportsandoutdoormentors

0:00 Key moments

5:43 Years at The North Face & relocation

8:45 Work Ethics & Open Mind

11:38 Wisdom

14:20 Changes for women in the industry

20:52 Chairperson at Opening up the Outdoors

28:11 Fresh young energy at Monterey

32:15 Huge believer in mentorship

35:12 Favorite piece of gear

36:32 Book recommendation

39:16 Most valuable advice

41:24 Message to the team

42:06 Last words

In this insightful episode, Equip Outdoor Technologies, Executive Chairman Matt Gowar shares his remarkable 30-year journey in the outdoor industry, from founding Equip Outdoor Technologies to acquiring and leading iconic brands like RAB and Lowe Alpine.

He delves into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the strategic acquisitions that propelled his company forward, and the leadership philosophy that guided his success.

Matt discusses the evolving challenges and opportunities within the outdoor sector, including sustainability and market dynamics, while offering invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Through personal anecdotes and reflections, he reveals the passion and resilience required to thrive in this competitive industry, providing listeners with a deep dive into the world of outdoor business and innovation.

Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.

Join us every Sunday for a new episode.

Follow Matt https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-gowar-9589824a/

Follow Equip Outdoor Technology https://www.linkedin.com/company/equip-outdoor-technologies-ltd/

Follow RAB https://www.linkedin.com/company/rab/

Follow Lowe Alpine https://www.linkedin.com/company/lowe-alpine-uk-limited/

Follow European Outdoor Group (EOG) https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-outdoor-group-eog/

Follow Dan https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

0:00 - Introduction 

0:45 - Matt's Origins in the Outdoor Industry 2:30 - The Birth and Evolution of Equip Outdoor Technologies 5:00 - Acquiring RAB and Lowe Alpine: Strategy and Challenges 10:00 - The Role of Innovation and Adapting to Market Changes 15:00 - Insights on Leadership and Building a Dynamic Team 20:00 - The Importance of a Consumer-Centric Approach 25:00 - Discussing Global Challenges: COVID-19 and Its Impact 30:00 - Sustainability Efforts and Future Industry Trends 35:00 - Personal Passions: Balancing Work, Life, and the Outdoors 40:00 - Serving as President of the European Outdoor Group 45:00 - Advocacy for Collaboration Within the Outdoor Industry 50:00 - Reflections: Key Lessons from 30 Years in the Business 52:30 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Industry Leaders

Step into the empowering world of Ruth Oberrauch, the trailblazing Vice President of the Oberalp Group, as we explore her remarkable journey across various domains of marketing, HR, sustainability, and brand management.

Our latest episode unveils Ruth's story, from her initial uncertainties to her profound impact on the outdoor industry. Hear about her transformative experiences from fashion retail to leading sustainability efforts, and how she spearheaded the launch of a groundbreaking brand amidst the global pandemic.

Ruth's narrative is a powerful showcase of leading with empathy, the changing role of women in outdoor pursuits, and the critical importance of sustainability.

Her insights are invaluable for those looking to make a lasting difference in the outdoor sector or seeking inspiration to navigate their career paths with energy and passion.

Subscribe or Follow to join us on this motivational journey, and let Ruth's dedication to innovation, empathy, and the great outdoors inspire your next adventure!

#SportsTech #GlobalLeadership #CulturalInsights #TeamTrust #subscribenow

Join us every Sunday for a new episode.

Ruth's Book Recommendation:

📌 A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari - https://amzn.to/3TMpa7A (Amazon Affiliate Link)

Follow Ruth https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-oberrauch/

Follow Oberalp Group and LaMunt

https://www.linkedin.com/company/oberalp/ https://www.youtube.com/@oberalpgroup2799 https://www.linkedin.com/company/lamunt/

Follow Dan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

 #sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 - Introduction

01:30 - Early days

05:00 - Challenges and uncertainties

08:45 - Transitioning and lessons learned.

13:20 - The importance of empathy and overcoming gender stereotypes

18:00 - Insights into the launch of a new brand during the pandemic

23:40 - The role of sustainability

29:15 - The evolution of women's participation

34:00 - Strategies for balancing work, passion, and family life

39:20 - The impact of empathy

44:05 - Advice for aspiring leaders.

49:30 - Importance of experience and cultural exposure

Dive into an enriching conversation with Markus Hupach, CEO of ARION, and explore the vast terrain of leadership within the sports and outdoor industry. 

With an expansive career that includes pivotal roles at Runners Point, Sport 2000, and ASICS, Markus brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for sports that started in his childhood. This episode not only tracks his professional evolution but also delves into his transformative experience in Japan, where he embraced cultural depth, learning the importance of trust and respect in all aspects of business and leadership.

Markus discusses the delicate art of decision-making, highlighting that not every decision will be right but avoiding decisions slows down progress. He emphasizes the power of trust, both in the personal development journey and in empowering teams to achieve greatness. From the challenges of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life to navigating through the complexities of a tech startup, Markus shares insights that resonate with leaders at all levels.

Learn about Markus’s journey from playing handball at a competitive level to leading a sports tech startup that's at the forefront of innovation. His story is not just about the successes but also the learning from every twist and turn. If you're intrigued by the intersection of sports, leadership, and technology, and how cultural experiences shape business strategies, this episode is for you.

Please subscribe to our channel to support our mission of bringing you more stories like Markus's. Your subscription helps us continue to elevate the content and bring insights from leaders across the sports and outdoor industry. Thank you for joining us, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below.

#SportsTech #GlobalLeadership #CulturalInsights #TeamTrust #SubscribeNow

Join us every Sunday for a new episode.

Markus' Book Recommendations:

📌 Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant - https://amzn.to/3v7IG4S (Amazon Affiliate links)

📌 Culture Map: Decoding How People Think, Lead, and Get Things Done Across Cultures by Erin Meyer - https://amzn.to/43fXI56 (Amazon Affiliate links)

Follow Markus https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhupach/

Follow ARION https://www.linkedin.com/company/ato-gear/

Follow Dan https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

#sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 Intro

01:22 Defining moments

02:52 Studies & sports

04:51 Competitive spirit

08:50 Mentors

10:37 Blind Spots & Strength Journey

14:05 Importance of coaches

14:57 What I would do differently

18:38 Admitting

20:35 Japan journey

30:34 Balance & wise advice

38:35 Empowering the team

42:18 Driving leadership change

48:22 Digital transformation and learnings

01:00:34 Network Importance

01:03:55 Social Media

01:07:06 Failure

01:09:45 Favourite piece of gear

01:12:12 Book recommendation

01:13:28 Best piece of advice

01:13:49 Last message to the team

01:14:32 Advice to future leaders

01:49:00 Additional comments

Join us for an inspiring episode of "Sports+Outdoor Mentors," where we delve deep into the captivating journey of Andrew Denton, CEO of the UK Outdoor Industries Association. 

With nearly four decades of experience, Andrew shares his remarkable story from aspiring zookeeper to a leading figure in the sports and outdoor industry. 

Discover how his passion for the outdoors, relentless persistence, and visionary leadership transformed brands like Rohan, Mountain Equipment, and many others, shaping the landscape of outdoor recreation. 

Learn about the challenges he faced, the triumphs he celebrated, and the wisdom he gained along the way. 

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone seeking motivation to pursue your passions, Andrew's insights on leadership, industry growth, sustainability, and work-life balance are bound to inspire. 

Tune in to hear how one man's journey can inspire us all to live more connected, active, and meaningful lives outdoors. 

Remember to hit the Subscribe button to join our community and explore more stories of amazing leaders from the sports and outdoor industry.

You can join us every Sunday for a new episode.

Andrew's Book Recommendations:

📌 The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey - https://amzn.to/3VboXfi (Amazon Affiliate links)

📌 Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE by Phil Knight - https://amzn.to/4cajF9V (Amazon Affiliate links)

📌 Steve Jobs: The Exclusive Biography by Walter Isaacson - https://amzn.to/4c9EaTW (Amazon Affiliate links)

Follow Andrew

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-denton-8120344

Follow Outdoor Industries Association (OIA) https://www.linkedin.com/company/oiauk/

Follow Dan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

 #sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 Intro

01:27 Key events

02:38 Environmental studies

04:49 Transition to sales at Rohan

08:05 US move and nomad life

12:01 Persistence & hard work

17:10 Building trade business

25:39 Transition, successes and failures

40:39 Training himself, coaches & mentors

47:16 Autistic Spectrum Disorder focus

53:27 Balance

59:36 The Outdoor Industries Association (OIA)

01:10:14 David Cameron and bringing outdoor awareness

01:18:18 Favourite piece of gear

01:24:23 Most valuable piece of advice received

01:28:18 Three pieces of advice for future leaders

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Juan Vargues, the dynamic President and CEO of Dometic Group, on this episode of Sports and Outdoor Mentors. Delve into the compelling story of a leader who transformed an industrial heavyweight into a trendsetting outdoor lifestyle brand, making waves across the globe.

In this deep dive, Juan Vargues shares the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership ethos, from early personal challenges to strategic career transitions that prepared him for the mammoth task of reimagining Dometic. Discover how embracing change, prioritizing customer engagement, and harnessing the power of strategic acquisitions propelled Dometic to new heights, transforming the perception of the brand from a traditional manufacturer to an outdoor lifestyle pioneer.

This episode is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about the intersection of leadership, innovation, and the great outdoors. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, leading your own venture, or simply fascinated by transformative business strategies, Juan's journey offers invaluable insights and inspiration.

Thank you for listening. Hit the Follow button, share your feedback in the comments, and stay tuned for more insightful episodes on Sports and Outdoor Insights.

#Innovation #OutdoorLifestyle #DometicTransformation #SportsAndOutdoorInsights #Subscribe

Juan's Book Recommendations:

📌 Good to Great by Jim Collins - https://amzn.to/3Sxlh4z (Amazon Affiliate link)

Follow Juan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-vargues-9367639/

Follow Dometic

https://www.linkedin.com/company/dometic-group/ https://www.youtube.com/@DometicOfficial

Follow Dan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

#sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 Intro

01:30 Key events

04:59 Military discipline

07:08 Manufacturing to business

09:58 Studies vs work theories

12:40 Regional and global differences

14:01 Observing & listening competitors

16:25 Leadership approach

21:55 Career path in No1 companies

24:34 Hiring leaders

31:27 Most important focus

34:06 Following up 35:50 Balance

38:46 Frustrations more than failure

44:37 Bosses as mentors

46:23 Brand transformation 58:20 Opportunities vs risks

1:00:26 Outdoor run love

1:02:42 Book recommendation 1:04:35 Best piece of advice

1:06:28 Message to the team

In this captivating second episode of our two-part series on Sports and Outdoor Mentors, we dive deep with Franco Fogliato, the visionary CEO and President of Salomon.

Starting from humble beginnings in junior sales roles, Franco quickly ascended to leadership positions at industry giants like The North Face and Columbia Sportswear, bringing a wealth of experience and insights.

This episode not only uncovers Franco's unique philosophy on leadership and the vital role of failure in personal growth and success but also explores his passionate commitment to sustainability and expanding outdoor sports participation.

Join us as Franco shares his transformative journey, emphasising the importance of embracing challenges and learning from setbacks to drive forward not just in sports but in life itself.

From insights on making the business of sports more sustainable to personal anecdotes of resilience and recovery, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to be inspired by a leader reshaping the future of the sports industry.

Hit the subscribe button to support our channel and continue discovering wisdom from remarkable leaders like Franco.

Franco's Book Recommendations:

📌Dan Carter: The Autobiography of an All Blacks Legend by Dan Carter - https://amzn.to/3UHmUiF (Affiliated Account)

Follow Franco

https://www.linkedin.com/in/franco-fogliato-23a9531/

Follow Salomon

https://www.linkedin.com/company/salomon/

https://www.youtube.com/@SalomonTV

Follow Dan Trapp

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

#sportsandoutdoormentors

00:00 Intro

01:09 Responsibility to drive the change

08:31 Get more people outside

13:54 No finish line for the planet

16:52 Professional & Personal tough challenges

19:43 Failure and recovery

22:14 Favourite Piece of gear

26:11 Message to the team and future leaders

29:30 Passion and excitement

31:21 Book recommendation

36:22 Final word and advice

In this gripping first episode of a two-part series of Sports+Outdoor Mentors, we dive deep into the life of Franco Fogliato, a luminary in the sports and outdoor industry and the visionary CEO and President of Salomon.

From humble beginnings in a small Italian town, Franco shares his transformative journey through pivotal moments, from rejecting a lucrative banking career for the love of the outdoors to leading Salomon to achieve a billion euros in sales.

Franco reflects on the essence of hard work inherited from his father, the thrill of embracing outdoor sports, and the invaluable lessons learned from navigating cultural differences and challenging times.

His story is not just about climbing the corporate ladder but about his passion for outdoor sports, the importance of family support, and the impact of mentors.

This episode shows how pursuing what you love with determination and respect for work can lead to unparalleled success.

Don't miss this inspiring tale of leadership, passion, and resilience that transcends boundaries and industries.

Hit follow to support our channel and get insights from more incredible leaders in the sports and outdoor world. Join us next Sunday for Part 2 of this inspiring episode.

Follow Franco

https://www.linkedin.com/in/franco-fogliato-23a9531/

Follow Salomon

https://www.linkedin.com/company/salomon/

https://www.youtube.com/@SalomonTV

Follow Dan Trapp

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/

Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sports-and-outdoor-mentors/

Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@S_OM1

00:00 Intro

01:20 Key moments

04:35 Love for the Outdoors & Sports

05:55 Work ethics

08:58 Military service

11:52 Life at Billabong

16:25 EU & US Columbia Sportswear experience

20:15 Salomon call

23:26 Balance

29:41 Great influencers

37:08 Dealing with stress