Outdoor Biz Podcast
Winner of Four Outdoor Writers Association of America Excellence in Craft Awards, the Outdoor Biz Podcast features inspiring conversations with Outdoor/Adventure Brand Founders and Leaders from Outdoor, Bike, Ski, Adventure Travel, Conservation, Industry Recruiters, Executives, and many others. They talk about their careers, tell inspiring stories, and offer advice and direction on the path you can take to get your job in the industry and grow your Outdoor Career. Hosted by Author, Speaker, and Adventurer Rick Saez and is available wherever you get your podcasts.
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Adventure Photography and Travel Writing with HI Travel Tales Michael Hodgson and Therese Iknoian [EP 348]
04/18/2024
Adventure Photography and Travel Writing with HI Travel Tales Michael Hodgson and Therese Iknoian [EP 348]
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! Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Innovation and Collaboration in Outdoor Media with Chez Chesak, Outdoor Writers Assoc. of America [EP 437]
04/16/2024
Innovation and Collaboration in Outdoor Media with Chez Chesak, Outdoor Writers Assoc. of America [EP 437]
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 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 e, 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 '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 for resources and career support, including opportunities for those just starting out or making a career change. 26:18 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 "" 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 Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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The Story of Eagle Creek. From Outdoor Adventures to Adventure Travel with Steve and Nona Barker [EP 436]
04/11/2024
The Story of Eagle Creek. From Outdoor Adventures to Adventure Travel with Steve and Nona Barker [EP 436]
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, , and their journey in shaping the adventure travel market. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 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, 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 . 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 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 Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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The Future of the Outdoor Biz: Barry McGeough on Growth, Sustainability, and Circular Innovation [EP 435]
04/09/2024
The Future of the Outdoor Biz: Barry McGeough on Growth, Sustainability, and Circular Innovation [EP 435]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes 00:00 Friend's 60th birthday boat trip to , 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 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: , , , , 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 Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Pioneering Adventure Travel with Richard Bangs: Stories of Exploration and Transformation [EP 434]
04/04/2024
Pioneering Adventure Travel with Richard Bangs: Stories of Exploration and Transformation [EP 434]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes 00:00 Entrepreneur recounts excitement of starting river company. 06:19 Excited guides seek new adventure on . 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 ; some memorable books are , , 49:46 54:31:01 Favorite Gear under $100: . 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: and on these social sites You can find Mtn Travel Sobek Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Nomadic living and Environmental Advocacy with Outdoor Minimalist Meg Carney [EP 433]
04/02/2024
Nomadic living and Environmental Advocacy with Outdoor Minimalist Meg Carney [EP 433]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 , a Woman-founded company offers efficient, compact travel towels. 37:19 Meg's Favorite Book: , , Megs Book 38:32 and environmental conservation. OD Biz 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: You can also visit Meg on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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The Evolution of Outdoor Hydration Solutions with MXXY's Drew Dawson [EP 432]
03/26/2024
The Evolution of Outdoor Hydration Solutions with MXXY's Drew Dawson [EP 432]
Today I’m talking with co-founder Drew Dawson. MXXY was born on the trails of Marin County, California. Growing up there Drew and co-founder 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 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 and get signed up today. You can thank me later. That's Ricksaez dot com slash grammar check. 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 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: You can also visit MXXY on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Rachel Gross Unpacks the Evolution of Outdoor Gear and the American Outdoor Identity [EP 431]
03/19/2024
Rachel Gross Unpacks the Evolution of Outdoor Gear and the American Outdoor Identity [EP 431]
This week I'm talking with , an environmental and cultural historian of the modern U. S. and an assistant professor of history at the . Among many accolades and experiences, Rachel was a Carson Fellow at the 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: Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: If you write as much as I do, it’s nice to have a little backup with spelling and grammar, and I use . 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 and get signed up today. You can thank me later. That's Ricksaez dot com slash grammar check. Show Notes 00:00 Shifted from outdoor pursuits to writing about them professionally. 04:46 Global scholars gather at Munich's . 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 at: You can also visit Rachel on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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The Art of Endurance: Nadia Ruiz's Stories of Running, Coaching, and Outdoor Pursuits [EP 430]
03/12/2024
The Art of Endurance: Nadia Ruiz's Stories of Running, Coaching, and Outdoor Pursuits [EP 430]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 00:00 Inspired by race, dreamed of participating someday. 03:34 Expensive, equipment-heavy triathlon; initially aimed for marathon. Discovered . 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: and 24:09 Favorite Books: , 25:30 I'm open to help, don't hesitate to connect Learn More You can follow up with Nadia here: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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, #, #racing experience, #outdoor industry, #event production Podcast produced using , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Mark Holyoak from RMEF: Unveiling the Work of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation [EP 429]
03/05/2024
Mark Holyoak from RMEF: Unveiling the Work of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation [EP 429]
Welcome to Episode 429 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I’m talking with Mark Holyoak, Director of Communication at the . 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 , 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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: You can also visit The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Trailblazing with Mari Bodensteiner and The Space Trailers Story [EP 428]
02/27/2024
Trailblazing with Mari Bodensteiner and The Space Trailers Story [EP 428]
Welcome to Episode 428 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Mari Bodensteiner and . 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 , and then compression socks, the CEP, I think it's 23:22 How about some of your favorite books? by Chris Voss Learn More To learn more about Mari and Space Trailers, visit their website at: You can also visit Space Trailers on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 , Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Joe DiGirolamo Shares Thermore's Pursuit of Sustainability and Environmental Awareness [427]
02/20/2024
Joe DiGirolamo Shares Thermore's Pursuit of Sustainability and Environmental Awareness [427]
In this episode, Rick Saez welcomes , Director of Sales at insulation company . 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 and Thermore, visit their website at: You can also visit Thermore on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Tom Dempsey, Outdoor Industry Leadership, and SylvanSport's Innovative Approach [EP 426]
02/13/2024
Tom Dempsey, Outdoor Industry Leadership, and SylvanSport's Innovative Approach [EP 426]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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? 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? How about some of your favorite books? 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)? [email protected] Learn More To learn more about Tom and SylvanSport, visit their website at: You can also visit SylvanSport on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Reeling in Change: How Rising to the Fly is Empowering Women in Fly Fishing [EP 425]
02/06/2024
Reeling in Change: How Rising to the Fly is Empowering Women in Fly Fishing [EP 425]
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 , 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 was born! Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes 00:00 Decided to expand fly fishing group nationwide, changed name to "." 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: You can also visit on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Campfire Innovation: Inside the Creation of PacAPit with John Chadwell [EP 424]
01/30/2024
Campfire Innovation: Inside the Creation of PacAPit with John Chadwell [EP 424]
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! Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes Overview 00:00 Invented COVID baby fire concept on river. 03:23 Texas grocery chain 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 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? 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? , and . YOU can get 15% off your PacAPit when you use CODE ODBIZ15 to purchase your PacAPit. Go to , 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: You can also visit PacAPit on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Peter Arlein Shares his mountainFLOW ‘No petroleum’ EcoWax Success [EP 423]
01/23/2024
Peter Arlein Shares his mountainFLOW ‘No petroleum’ EcoWax Success [EP 423]
Welcome to Episode 423 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I’m speaking with Peter Arlein, Founder and CEO of 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes Questions we Discussed What was your first outdoor experience? tell us about the path from Biology and Neuroscience at to an MBA at the Business Intelligence and Data Analytics at the . 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 ? 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? . How about some of your favorite books? by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Learn More To learn more about Peter and mountainFLOW eco-wax, visit their website at: You can also visit Peter and mountainFLOW eco-wax on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Sustainable Travel and Community Empowerment: Samira Holma's Journey [EP 422]
01/13/2024
Sustainable Travel and Community Empowerment: Samira Holma's Journey [EP 422]
Today, I’m speaking with entrepreneur, marketer, writer, and full-time traveler . 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 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 do you have any favorite books or books you give as gifts? One that I keep Recommending and giving away as well is . 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: You can also visit Samira on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Navigating Agency Success, Personal Growth, and Outdoor Pursuits with Kyle Duford [EP 421]
01/02/2024
Navigating Agency Success, Personal Growth, and Outdoor Pursuits with Kyle Duford [EP 421]
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. . . Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 ? 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 . 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 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 and his work with , visit their website at: You can also visit Kyle on these social sites: Next Steps If you enjoy interviews devoted to the outdoor industry, find us online at . 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 Podcast hosted by use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF Show Notes powered by Website powered by Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Outdoor Adventure Series replay: Scott Kovarovics, Executive Director at the Izaak Walton League [EP 420]
12/16/2023
Outdoor Adventure Series replay: Scott Kovarovics, Executive Director at the Izaak Walton League [EP 420]
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! Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 You can also learn more about the League on their social sites: Click here to learn more about the The Outdoor Adventure Series is a Podcast Production of
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Suweeka's Kirk Ohly interviews Rick [EP 419]
12/28/2023
Suweeka's Kirk Ohly interviews Rick [EP 419]
I'm here with a good friend of mine, . Kirk is one of the founding partners of the new eBike rack brand . We're in Ballard, Stoop Brewery in Ballard. This is going to be something different, Kirk is interviewing me. Let’s go! Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here:
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Outdoor Adv Series Replay- Protecting Coastlines with the Surfrider Foundation [EP 418]
12/16/2023
Outdoor Adv Series Replay- Protecting Coastlines with the Surfrider Foundation [EP 418]
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 's Outdoor , and he is featuring two of my shows on his podcast. Today, we’ll hear Howard's conversation with 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 or connect with them on these social sites: NEXT STEPS If you enjoy podcasts devoted to the outdoor adventure space, find us online at . 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
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2023 TRE Show Floor #2 [EP 417]
12/21/2023
2023 TRE Show Floor #2 [EP 417]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Links
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Reimagining Workplaces: Tiffany Smith's Insights on Diversity and Inclusion in the Outdoors [EP 416]
12/10/2023
Reimagining Workplaces: Tiffany Smith's Insights on Diversity and Inclusion in the Outdoors [EP 416]
Welcome to episode 416 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by . 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 . Tiffany and 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 Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 . There was this opportunity [00:02:40] that came up with the , and he thought I should go for it. And, a few other leaders at the 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 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 [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 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 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, . And once they become a partner with Camber, we have the [00:13:40] , which, next year is going to receive National recognition from the . It's [00:13:50] going to be a case study. We partnered with 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 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 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 , which has been strong for us throughout the years, [00:23:30] , , , the , , , I can go on and on. Yeah, a lot of the brand partners. [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, , 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 , , and National , 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] , 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 , 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 , 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 [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 , 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 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, . And I reach out there. you can reach out to me on . [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 . [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: Follow up with Tiffany: Tiffany:
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Matt Addington's Bird Hunting Film Kaiya, Reconnecting a Father and Son [EP 415]
12/10/2023
Matt Addington's Bird Hunting Film Kaiya, Reconnecting a Father and Son [EP 415]
Welcome to episode 415 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by . From the RAV 4 to the mighty Tacoma, Toyota has a model built for everyone’s Outdoor adventures. Today I’m talking with Photographer about his career and recent film . 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 Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 and . 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 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 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 (formerly ) and . 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 "": 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 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 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 , and Matt also finds inspiration in reading the Bible. Favorite outdoor gear under $100: Matt mentioned his (although they might be slightly above $100) and a pair of gloves by that provide dexterity and warmth. Follow up with Matt
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2023 TRE Show Floor #1 [EP 414]
12/07/2023
2023 TRE Show Floor #1 [EP 414]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Links
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Exploring the Great Outdoors: Insights from Toyota's Curt McAllister on Conservation, Fishing, and More [EP 413]
12/03/2023
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 . 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 Brought to you this week by Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes [04:59.1] How did you get involved with Toyota? Curtis got involved with Toyota through the . The association approached him about starting the 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 , 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 or 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 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 "" 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 and the return of the 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 . [32:46:5] Where can people find you if they’d like to follow up? My and my . You can also visit the public domain site to learn more about Toyota products. Links Follow up with Curtis Favorite Book: Favorite Piece of Gear under $100:
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Texas to North Dakota: The Waterfowl Brigade Camp Inspiring Young Conservationists [EP 412]
11/19/2023
Texas to North Dakota: The Waterfowl Brigade Camp Inspiring Young Conservationists [EP 412]
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 Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes How did you get into duck hunting? Josh got into duck hunting through his interest in the . Do you do any other kinds of hunting? "I'm actually more of a pheasant hunter than a duck hunter" 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." What exactly is the North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade? The 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. Why did you choose the Texas Waterfowl Brigade model? Josh was drawn to the model because of its seamless setup, emphasis on hands-on learning, incorporation of leadership activities, and the successful engagement of kids in outdoor activities. 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. 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. 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. 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? 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. Jennifer says you've got to have a good headlamp. How about some of your favorite books? Josh talks about "The Lonesome Cowboy with Friends," a book given to him by an author he met at a camp. Jennifer discusses ", 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 through , 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: . Jennifer shares her email: , and she directs interested individuals to apply for the camp at texasbrigades.org/applications or contact North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade at .
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Exploring Endurance: Uncovering the Trails and Adventures of Rebecca Rush [EP 411]
11/18/2023
Exploring Endurance: Uncovering the Trails and Adventures of Rebecca Rush [EP 411]
Welcome to episode 411 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by , 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 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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: 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 , , , , , Discount code: ODBIZ15
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Driving Outdoor Gear Carry: Suweeka's Cutting-Edge Bike Carry Solutions [EP 410]
11/07/2023
Driving Outdoor Gear Carry: Suweeka's Cutting-Edge Bike Carry Solutions [EP 410]
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. Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes First Bikes Spencer Kirk Moxie - Favorite Books He headed up the iPod & iPhone team and also started the NEST brand. 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 . 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. Dometic water jug and rechargeable faucet Knipex tools Follow up Instagram: Kirk Suweeka email:
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Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation Marketing Director Rachel Piacenza dives into How They Build Awareness and Excitement [EP 409]
11/02/2023
Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation Marketing Director Rachel Piacenza dives into How They Build Awareness and Excitement [EP 409]
Hey everyone, welcome to Episode 409 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. Today I’m talking with Director of Marketing . 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 . Love the show? Subscribe, Sign up for my Newsletter . I’d love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: Show Notes [00:00:40] Episode 409 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Rachel Piacenza, director of marketing for the , 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 , 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 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, . [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. for their newsletter, Newswaves Follwow up with Rachel
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