Backcountry Marketing
Go behind-the-scenes with outdoor industry experts as they break down what it takes to produce creative work, that works.
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How to Be Creative
09/10/2025
How to Be Creative
Ready to jump start your creativity? Cole Heilborn breaks down Port Side’s playbook for developing ideas that work in the wild. From setting guardrails and asking “why” three times, to building a culture of candor and using constraints, music, boredom, and flow to unlock divergent thinking, this solo episode is for marketers and creatives who want to ship better work, not just talk about it. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Your Audience is Tired
09/03/2025
Your Audience is Tired
In this solo episode, unpacks the reality of digital fatigue and what it means for marketers. With endless competition for attention, from Netflix to Reddit to YouTube, your audience is already exhausted. They don’t want to be disrupted. They want content that feels valuable, entertaining, and emotionally resonant. Cole challenges brands to stop creating just to “show up” and start designing campaigns that genuinely add something to people’s lives. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Hitting the Reset Button on Creative with Vail Resorts’ Dillon Snyder
08/20/2025
Hitting the Reset Button on Creative with Vail Resorts’ Dillon Snyder
In this episode, I’m joined by , Creative Director at Vail Resorts. Dillon makes the case that much of today’s marketing output has become the equivalent of “yellow page ads.” We unpack why so much creative feels homogenized, how overemphasis on bottom-funnel tactics hurts long-term brand health, and why simplicity is often harder than complexity. Dillon also shares his vision for a “reset button” on creative: more collaboration between creatives and marketers, less energy on commoditized tactics, and a greater willingness to take risks that actually give audiences a reason to care. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Why Superfeet Rebuilt Their Brand Around Emotion
07/30/2025
Why Superfeet Rebuilt Their Brand Around Emotion
What happens when a legacy brand decides to go back to its roots while completely reimagining what it stands for? , VP of Marketing, at Superfeet shares the behind-the-scenes process of repositioning Superfeet from a product people don’t see to a brand people feel. We talk about why “Performance Amplified” became the rallying cry, how to build emotional resonance around an invisible product, and the surprising lessons they learned when media and consumers didn’t react the way they expected. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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One Question That Could Justify the ROI of Branded Video Content
07/23/2025
One Question That Could Justify the ROI of Branded Video Content
Is there a simple question to understand the ROI of branded content? Cole reflects on his takeaways from a panel discussion he hosted, the value of brand investments, knowing your audience, long form vs short form, and an update to the rebrand of Port Side About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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The Worst Mistake a Brand Can Make | Inside Sorel’s Re-Brand
07/21/2025
The Worst Mistake a Brand Can Make | Inside Sorel’s Re-Brand
In this episode, I'm joined by , VP of Brand at , who shares a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s reawakening. Sorel has been everything from a Canadian work boot to a fashion-forward winter staple, and now it’s entering a bold new chapter. We discuss what it takes to bring a heritage brand into the future, how to balance instinct and insight in a data-driven world, and why most outdoor content lacks real emotional impact. Michael also breaks down the creative strategy behind their upcoming campaign, “For Bold Steps,” and how brands can avoid the trap of mediocrity by having the courage to be polarizing. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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The Art of Letting Go: Building a Brand with Your Community
07/02/2025
The Art of Letting Go: Building a Brand with Your Community
In this episode, , Brand Director at HEST, unpacks the tension every marketer faces: How much control do you keep, and how much do you let your community shape your brand? We dive into what happens when you hand over creative control, why tension between brand and performance is healthy, and how HEST has built a passionate community by focusing on comfort, connection, and consistency. MJ also shares what she’s learned about content, team dynamics, and why she believes experiential events still have a powerful role in brand building. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Great Creative is Risky with Chris Burkard
06/18/2025
Great Creative is Risky with Chris Burkard
In this follow-up conversation with , we dive deep into what it really means to take creative risks. Chris shares why physical danger is easier to stomach than financial risk and why most outdoor marketing content falls flat emotionally. We also field audience questions from , covering pitching branded projects, giving feedback, the role of feeling in advertising, and the evolving function of creative agencies. Chris doesn’t hold back; this episode is a masterclass on the emotional and strategic layers of doing creative work that actually connects. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Why Your Content Isn't Pulling Its Weight
06/11/2025
Why Your Content Isn't Pulling Its Weight
Cole shares a personal reflection on the state of brand content today and why so much of it is falling short. This episode challenges brands, especially mid-size outdoor companies, to rethink how they approach content creation. Why bother doing it if it’s not driving results? Cole makes the case for content that’s built to solve problems, drive value, and show up creatively in a noisy world. He also includes a litmus test you can use to determine if your content is working as hard as it could. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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How Should Startup Brands Invest in Brand Awareness?
06/04/2025
How Should Startup Brands Invest in Brand Awareness?
If you’re building a brand from the ground up, where should you actually spend your time and money? , founder and CEO of , joins us to explore this question through the lens of an outdoor startup that’s grown by leading with trust, storytelling, and real-world value. We dive into why early-stage brands often misplace their marketing bets, how to approach content when budgets are limited, and what it really means to think like a media company even if your intention isn’t to become one. Nic shares the strategies LandTrust used to build brand awareness without paid ads and we discuss when it is appropriate for a startup to invest in branded film content. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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How Finisterre Uses a Brand Muse to Guide Creative Strategy
05/21/2025
How Finisterre Uses a Brand Muse to Guide Creative Strategy
In this episode, , CMO at , breaks down how the brand is growing without compromising its identity. We talk about their North American expansion, the tension between polished production and platform-native content, and why user-generated stories often outperform high-budget ads. Bronwen also shares how Finisterre uses a fictional “brand muse” to guide creative decisions, what they’ve learned about emotional storytelling in a data-driven world, and where she thinks AI fits (and doesn’t) in outdoor marketing. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative production studio. We help brands that move, create strategy-led, emotionally charged video campaigns Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights shared on the show? | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Will Creative Risk Aversion Kill Your Brand?
05/14/2025
Will Creative Risk Aversion Kill Your Brand?
According to a study by Lions, only 13% of brands are “risk friendly.” Cole unpacks this study, its implications, the future, and ways to make calculated risks. The outdoor industry, though commendable for its investment in branded content, suffers from a lack of creative risk, especially in an economic headwind - yet the data doesn’t lie. It’s actually riskier not to take creative risks. About: This podcast is produced by , a creative studio powered by the Backcountry Marketing Filter™, a methodology shaped by 200+ conversations with marketing leaders to turn insight into emotionally-driven video strategy. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights? Download them here | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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The Super Bowl Commercial that Didn't Cost a Dime
05/07/2025
The Super Bowl Commercial that Didn't Cost a Dime
In this episode, sits down with , the VP of Marketing and DTC at Bison Coolers, to discuss how a small outdoor brand found itself featured in a Super Bowl commercial without paying a dime. Mike walks us through how Google handpicked Bison Coolers to represent Texas in its nationwide Gemini campaign, why their family-run story resonated, and how the experience has transformed their marketing approach. From prepping for the massive wave of visibility to capitalizing on newfound brand awareness, Mike shares the real impact of landing on one of the biggest advertising stages in the world. They also explore the changing landscape of outdoor marketing, how humor is a powerful brand tool, and why storytelling, not just ad spend, breaks through the noise in today’s digital world. Referenced Topics: featuring Bison Coolers footage of Bison’s Super Bowl ad shoot About: This podcast is produced by , a creative studio powered by the Backcountry Marketing Filter™, a methodology shaped by 200+ conversations with marketing leaders to turn insight into emotionally-driven video strategy. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights? Download them here | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Most Outdoor Video Content is Forgettable
04/30/2025
Most Outdoor Video Content is Forgettable
Most outdoor brands are creating content, but few are creating content that is emotionally resonant and strategically effective. In this solo episode, Cole reflects on why so many brands are falling short of their creative potential, provides a real life example of how The Backcountry Marketing Filter works, and expands on why Port Side had to evolve. This podcast is produced by , a creative studio powered by the Backcountry Marketing Filter™, a methodology shaped by 200+ conversations with marketing leaders to turn insight into emotionally-driven video strategy. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Want 20 of our favorite insights? Download them here | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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How Tracksmith Builds Emotional Brand Stories
04/23/2025
How Tracksmith Builds Emotional Brand Stories
In this episode, sits down with , the Global Director of Communications at , to explore the evolving challenges of brand storytelling in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. They dive into the creative philosophy behind Tracksmith’s most successful campaigns, including the "Year of the Amateur" and "Church of the Long Run," and discuss the brand’s unique approach to fostering emotional connections with runners. Massimo shares insights into why authenticity is key in content creation, how Tracksmith balances long-form and short-form storytelling, and the complexities of measuring ROI in brand marketing. They also unpack the impact of shifting social media trends and how brands can adapt their creative strategies to maintain audience engagement. Referenced Topics: Tracksmith’s "Year of the Amateur" campaign: "Church of the Long Run" project: About: This podcast is produced by , a creative studio powered by the Backcountry Marketing Filter™, our methodology shaped by 200+ conversations with marketing leaders to turn insight into emotionally-driven video strategy. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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The Simple Question That Can Make or Break Your Content
04/16/2025
The Simple Question That Can Make or Break Your Content
Every person who watches your content is silently asking the same question: “Why should I care?” And if your brand doesn’t answer that clearly and quickly, the message won’t land, no matter how beautiful the visuals are. In this solo episode, Cole unpacks why this question is the real test of whether content works. Drawing from hundreds of interviews with outdoor marketing leaders, he shares common pitfalls brands fall into, how to avoid them, and why answering why it matters is the creative north star for any campaign. Whether you're planning a brand film, campaign, or product launch, this episode will challenge how you approach content and give you a framework to make sure your story sticks. This podcast is produced by We're a creative studio that blends the best of a creative agency with the executional power of a production company backed by a methodology crafted from 200 marketing leaders that produces emotional and strategic video content. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Bad Creative Briefs and Bold Ideas
04/09/2025
Bad Creative Briefs and Bold Ideas
If you’re a creative, marketer, or brand strategist, you’ve probably felt the frustration of working on campaigns that lack clear direction. Maybe you’ve been handed a brief and thought, This doesn’t feel right, but you weren’t given the space to challenge it. Or maybe you’ve seen brands struggle to stand out because they’re stuck following trends instead of creating something original. In this episode, sits down with —photographer, director, and brand strategist in the running world—to help you understand how creatives can play a bigger role in shaping brand strategy, rather than just executing it. Matt and Cole break down why integrating creative thinking into brand strategy leads to stronger, more authentic storytelling—and ultimately, better results. Key Topics: The tension between marketing and creativity—why brands need both but often default to marketing-led approaches. How brands can empower creatives to contribute beyond execution and influence strategy. The importance of knowing your audience deeply rather than relying solely on data-driven decisions. Why originality and authenticity matter more than ever in an era of mass content production. The viral success of the Strava x Chipotle challenge and how great storytelling drives engagement. This podcast is produced by We're a creative studio that blends the best of a creative agency with the executional power of a production company backed by a methodology crafted from 200 marketing leaders that produces emotional and strategic video content. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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What We've Learned From 200 Episodes | The Backcountry Marketing Filter
04/02/2025
What We've Learned From 200 Episodes | The Backcountry Marketing Filter
In today’s episode, Cole pulls back the curtain on Port Side’s next evolution and reveals a powerful new tool for outdoor marketers. The Backcountry Marketing Filter is a living database built from over 250 insights shared by the brightest minds in the outdoor industry—leaders who’ve mastered the art of creating strategic, emotional, and effective video content. This isn’t just a resource. It’s the foundation of a new approach. Port Side is no longer just a production company. We’ve become a creative studio that blends the best of a creative studio with the execution power of a production company. Curious how it works? Tune in to learn how the Backcountry Marketing Filter can help you identify blind spots, avoid common pitfalls, and pressure-test your brand films, product launches, and campaigns—before they go live This podcast is produced by We're a creative studio that blends the best of a creative agency with the executional power of a production company backed by a methodology crafted from 200 marketing leaders that produces emotional and strategic video content. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Your Outdoor Brand is Competing for Attention—And Losing
03/26/2025
Your Outdoor Brand is Competing for Attention—And Losing
In this episode, sits down with , the co-founder and CEO of , to unpack the changing landscape of audience behavior, content strategy, and digital marketing. Charlie shares why outdoor brands aren’t just competing with each other—they’re competing with Netflix, TikTok, and everything else that demands attention. He explains why understanding audience behavior is more critical than ever, how brands should rethink content effectiveness, and why data-driven insights should fuel creative decisions. They also discuss how brands can avoid making content for a destination that doesn’t exist, the pitfalls of the one-size-fits-all approach to audience personas, and the power of using insights to unlock creative potential. Key Takeaways: You’re competing for attention, not just with your industry. Outdoor brands need to recognize that consumers are bombarded with content from all directions. Audience understanding is no longer optional. If you don’t know exactly who your audience is, where they spend time, and what they engage with, your content won’t perform. Data and creativity must work together. The best marketing decisions combine strategic insights with bold creative ideas. This podcast is produced by We're a creative studio that blends the best of a creative agency with the executional power of a production company backed by a methodology crafted from 200 marketing leaders that produces emotional and strategic video content. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Want to support us financially?
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Content in Motion: Traditional vs. Outdoor Sports
03/12/2025
Content in Motion: Traditional vs. Outdoor Sports
In this episode, we sit down with Myles McCutcheon, Director of Content for the Vancouver Canucks, to explore the fascinating parallels between professional sports and the outdoor industry. Myles shares insights on audience engagement, the importance of authenticity, and how sports teams operate like content powerhouses. We discuss the differences in content strategy, the role of athletes versus creators, and what the outdoor world can learn from sports teams' storytelling approaches. If you're looking to refine your brand’s content strategy, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Key Topics: Real-time storytelling during live sports games vs. content creation timelines in the outdoor world. Balancing evergreen vs. timely content and understanding where each adds value. The evolving roles of athletes and creators as key storytellers and ambassadors. How budget allocation and social impact initiatives differ between industries. The power of emotional storytelling to build human connections and drive audience loyalty This podcast is produced by . We are a production company that works with outdoor brands to create effective and emotional videos. To date, we’ve made feature documentaries, video podcasts, product videos, and commercials. The thing that unifies us is our unwavering goal to help brands make effective videos driven by emotion and backed by strategy. | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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TREW Gear - Creating a Branded Film Festival
02/19/2025
TREW Gear - Creating a Branded Film Festival
In this episode, sits down with , the CEO and co-founder of , to explore the pressing challenges brands face in standing out in 2024. They dive into the creative heartbeat of the outdoor industry, discussing TREW’s “TREW To You Film” contest—a celebration of community-driven storytelling, self-expression, and creativity. Chris shares how TREW is fostering deeper connections with its core audience through storytelling and innovative community engagement strategies. The conversation spans the evolution of ski film culture, the role of social media in building authentic communities, and how small brands can leverage creativity to make a big impact. They also unpack the importance of measuring ROI in creative projects while maintaining the balance between marketing goals and authentic storytelling. With a sneak peek at what’s ahead for the TREW To You, Chris reveals how TREW continues to push boundaries with fresh innovations and a renewed focus on community connection. Key Takeaways Standing out as a brand in 2025 is increasingly challenging. Brand storytelling should reflect the values and experiences of the community. Community engagement is key to building brand awareness. TREW’s approach contrasts with traditional brand films that often promote self-interest. With a little creativity, there are ways to carve out a niche in your market About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We are a production company that works with outdoor brands to create effective and emotional videos. To date, we’ve made feature documentaries, video podcasts, product videos, and commercials. The thing that unifies us is our unwavering goal to help brands make effective videos driven by emotion backed by strategy. | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here.
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The Future of this Podcast
02/12/2025
The Future of this Podcast
This past year has been a year of reflection. In this solo episode, I share an update about the future of the podcast. As Port Side approaches its 10-year milestone, I reflect on key lessons learned and announce a new, more focused direction for the show. After nearly 200 episodes and years of conversations with marketing leaders, I’ve come to realize that both Port Side Productions and this podcast’s true value lie in helping brands create content that is both emotionally compelling and strategically effective. Moving forward, the show will double down on exploring how to make creative work that truly resonates and delivers results. This podcast is produced by . We craft effective, emotionally-powered videos for outdoor brands. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here.
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Inspire, Activate, Celebrate: Outdoor Storytelling with Robin Thurston
02/05/2025
Inspire, Activate, Celebrate: Outdoor Storytelling with Robin Thurston
In this episode, sits down with , CEO and founder of Outside Interactive, to discuss the importance of inspiring people to engage with the outdoors. They explore the cycle of inspiration, activation, and celebration, emphasizing the role of storytelling and user-generated content in motivating outdoor activities. Robin shares insights on the challenges posed by content overload and the evolving landscape of advertising, while also highlighting the need for brands to adapt to change in the outdoor industry. The discussion also touches on the role of social media in promoting outdoor activities, the necessity of original content for storytelling, and the evolving landscape where brands must act as media companies. Key Takeaways Inspiration is the first step in getting people outdoors. The outdoor industry faces competition from technology and indoor entertainment. Storytelling remains vital, but the quality of content is declining due to AI. Change is constant, and adaptability is key in the outdoor industry. Authenticity in storytelling will attract audiences in a content-saturated world The outdoor industry must support each other to grow. If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together. This podcast is produced by . We craft effective, emotionally-powered videos for outdoor brands. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Navigating Change: Chris Burkard on Creativity, Risk, and Authenticity
01/22/2025
Navigating Change: Chris Burkard on Creativity, Risk, and Authenticity
In this episode, sits down with —photographer, creative director, adventurer, and storyteller. Chris shares his unique perspective on navigating the constant changes shaping the outdoor industry, creativity, and marketing. They dive deep into the evolving role of creatives in a constantly changing outdoor industry. From the blurred lines between artistry and strategy to the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a data-driven world, Chris shares insights from his expansive career and unique perspectives on storytelling, marketing, and brand-building. This is part one of a two-part series featuring Chris. If you have a question for Chris that you’d like him to answer in part 2 . Key Takeaways The role of creatives is changing The path to success for a piece of creative has changed over the last 15 years Many brands are asking creatives to provide directions to a destination that doesn't exist. The balance between creative risk and data-backed decision-making Opportunities for creatives are ripe This podcast is produced by . We help brands make effective video content. Need help standing out? Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Inside the Creative Process with Garmin’s Lead Producer, Kyle Pusateri
01/08/2025
Inside the Creative Process with Garmin’s Lead Producer, Kyle Pusateri
In this episode, sits down with , Lead Producer at Garmin, to unpack the intricate world of production. Kyle shares insights from his journey through account management to becoming a producer, providing a unique glimpse into Garmin’s creative ecosystem. From managing large-scale productions to collaborating with internal and external teams, Kyle reveals how to balance efficiency and creativity to execute projects that resonate. Key Takeaways: The Importance of the First Six Seconds: Kyle emphasizes the critical role of grabbing attention on social media while maintaining alignment with long-term brand objectives. Efficient Creativity: Kyle’s two-word approach to production underlines the need to maximize resources while staying true to the creative vision. Navigating In-House vs. External Partnerships: Explore Garmin’s model of leveraging an in-house team while collaborating with external partners for specialized campaigns. The Role of Authenticity in Outdoor Media: Learn how Garmin ensures its media remains genuine and relatable by using real athletes and epic environments. Future-Proofing with AI and Technology: Kyle and Cole discuss the potential and limitations of AI in production and how storytelling remains at the core of building emotional connections. Connect with Kyle: This podcast is produced by . We believe that in a cluttered media landscape, standing out requires more than just telling a good story. We partner with brands to cut through the noise, crafting narratives and creative that not only captures attention but also deeply resonate with audiences, ensuring your message doesn't just reach people but moves them. Need help standing out? Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Huckberry’s DIRT Uncovered
12/18/2024
Huckberry’s DIRT Uncovered
In this episode, talks with , the director and producer of Huckberry Presents, to discuss the DIRT series. They explore the evolution of episodic content, the importance of understanding the audience, and the unique point of view that Huckberry brings to the outdoor industry. Kate shares insights on building trust and community, the significance of authentic storytelling, and the hard work that goes into creating successful content. In this conversation, Kate discusses the intricate process of content creation for Huckberry, emphasizing the significant behind-the-scenes work that goes into producing episodes. She highlights the importance of connecting content to commerce, the role of funding and partnerships, and the balance between quality and quantity in content production. Key Topics Covered: Discovery is a key element in Huckberry's storytelling approach. Funding and sponsor opportunities Episodic content allows for community building on platforms like YouTube. The success of DIRT is rooted in years of foundational work building trust and a point of view. Email marketing is a crucial amplification tool. Connecting content to commerce is an ongoing challenge. There is a saturation of similar outdoor content. About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together. This podcast is produced by . We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Storytellers by day, podcasters by night. We started this podcast because it's these types of deep, fundamental questions that keep us up at night. Thanks for tuning in! | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Streaming Wars: Why Outdoor Brands Need a Strategy
12/11/2024
Streaming Wars: Why Outdoor Brands Need a Strategy
In this Fireside episode, Cole reflects on the challenges and opportunities within the outdoor industry, particularly focusing on the importance of brand storytelling in a competitive landscape dominated by major streaming platforms. He emphasizes the limited time consumers have to engage with brands and the necessity for compelling content that resonates with audiences. Cole encourages brands to rethink their strategies and invest in storytelling as a long-term approach to stand out in a crowded market. About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together. This podcast is produced by . We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Storytelling and Heritage: How Weatherby Engages the Next Generation
12/04/2024
Storytelling and Heritage: How Weatherby Engages the Next Generation
In this episode, chats with , COO of Weatherby, and discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing. Since 1945 the brand has been defined by its stories. Today the brand produces podcasts and films to engage a younger audience while maintaining its heritage. Luke talks about ROI, how Meta and Google's restrictions on firearm companies create freedom in marketing, and much more. Key Takeaways Authenticity is crucial for brand connection. Weatherby has a rich heritage that informs its storytelling. Content creation can be done in-house for authenticity. YouTube serves as an important platform for brand storytelling. Timing is essential for content release to maximize impact. About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together. This podcast is produced by . We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. If you need help bringing your next video project to life check out our website to learn more. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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A Field Guide to Designing Product Based on Consumer Needs
11/20/2024
A Field Guide to Designing Product Based on Consumer Needs
In this episode, and , a veteran of Nike and a professor of consumer research, dive into the importance of consumer research in product development and marketing, discussing how understanding consumer needs can lead to successful products. Steve shares his journey in the industry, the process of conducting effective research, and the significance of insights versus observations. The conversation also touches on innovation in the outdoor industry and the need for a consumer-first approach in research and product development. Key Topics Covered: Consumer research is essential for understanding consumer needs. The product creation process starts and ends with the consumer. Effective research can lead to innovative products. Insights should guide marketing strategies and product design. Observations provide factual data, while insights reveal deeper understanding. About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together. This podcast is produced by . We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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Fireside: Creating Relevant Content with Gore-Tex
11/13/2024
Fireside: Creating Relevant Content with Gore-Tex
In this Fireside episode, Cole reflects on his conversation with Marc Bock from Gore-Tex. He talks about the importance of storytelling as a marketing tool, emphasizing its role in problem-solving and brand-building, how to justify ROI in storytelling projects and the significance of creating relevant content that aligns with business objectives, media channels, and audience needs. Key Takeaways Justifying ROI in brand storytelling is challenging but essential. Efficient planning of production can meet both bottom-of-funnel and top-of-funnel content needs. Relevant content requires understanding business, media, and audience needs. About the Backcountry Marketing Podcast This podcast is produced by . We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. If you need help bringing your next video project to life check our our website to learn more. Otherwise, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below: | Tune into Marc's Episode | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years. | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers. | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple. | Have a Guest in Mind? Share them with us here. | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?
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