Exploring the Great Outdoors: Insights from Toyota's Curt McAllister on Conservation, Fishing, and More [EP 413]

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

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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