Afleveringen

  • Hey everyone. Welcome to episode 447 of the Outdoor Biz Podcast. This week I’m talking with Cory Higgins, Cory is the Jetty Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer. One of his early memories of Jetty is Putting $200 in a trucker hat at Jerm's apartment by the Port Hole to pay his portion of starting the company and making their first 3 tees. They’ve come a long way since then!

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    Brought to you this week by Thrive Market

    Show Notes

    "Outdoor Adventures: So, yeah, I mean, there's so many memories of outdoor adventures."β€” Cory Higgins 00:03:4100:03:45

    Entrepreneurship Journey: "And after college, we were sitting around. We were working on 9 to five. And on the weekends, we'd gather at the one guy's apartment and crack some beers and talk about starting a business and working for ourselves someday."β€” Cory Higgins 00:04:2000:04:57

    Starting a Business in the Surf Industry: "And then we just kinda, like, sat on it for a minute, and I did some I did some of that backpacking in Australia."β€” Cory Higgins 00:04:5700:05:26

    Following Your Passion: "Can I take a sabbatical from school and come run your screen printing department?"β€” Cory Higgins 00:06:2300:06:28

    Marketing Strategy: "Our CEO and me would both be working behind the bar talking about in the summertime, we have a big influx of, tourists, and we'll just be talking about the company and selling t shirts and hats and promoting it. And then all those tourists would then go back to their hometowns in the winter with a new t shirt or hat, and then they would talk it up for us to their hometowns. Mhmm. It just kinda kept growing like that."β€” Cory Higgins 00:09:2100:09:45

    B-Corp Impact: "And, he was like, you should look into becoming a B-Corp."β€” Cory Higgins 00:11:3100:11:33

    Sustainable Fashion Trends: "Just trying to use more natural fibers and trying to get everything out of China that we can and diversify a whole lot more."β€” Cory Higgins 00:17:2700:17:36

    Customer Feedback and Retailers: "Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I mean, constantly taking feedback. I think the most feedback we take is from our retailers."β€” Cory Higgins 00:19:2400:19:30

    "Product Line Growth and Feedback": "Just you take it all with a grain of salt because one opinion doesn't mean anything."β€” Cory Higgins 00:20:1700:20:21

    Life's Journey: "You're on the path you're supposed to be on."β€” Cory Higgins 00:27:4400:27:46

    Favorite Gear Under $100: NiteIze Biner Clips

    Favorite Books: Start With Why by Simon Sinek, The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

    Learn More

    You can follow up with Cory on Linkedin, Instagram: cory_higgins and by email: [email protected]

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

    #Jetty, #B Corp certification, #outdoor lifestyle products, #surf lifestyle brands, #organic growth, #social media, #partnership, #collaborations, #product development, #natural fibers, #manufacturing, #US manufacturing, #community events, #international expansion, #young entrepreneurs, #outdoor gear

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  • Today I’m speaking with Buttnski founder Kelly Mazanti. After leaving her corporate life in 2017, Kelly founded a brand design & strategy company, Pier Collective, which she ran for five years between LA and Breckenridge.

    She is an alumnus of the CU Boulder Leeds School of Business with a degree in Marketing & Management. She recently had the opportunity to participate as a Capstone partner with the CU Boulder Master's of the Environment program.

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    Brought to you this week by Thrive Market

    Show Notes

    04:53 Skiing memories shape who I am now.

    09:10 Skiing, eighties shorts, parents in Colorado.

    09:43 Woman keeps old fleece shorts for warmth.

    15:27 Supplier flexibility allowed working with local and overseas.

    17:18 Family and friends supported our business launch.

    21:47 Learning new things, like dealing with customs.

    25:20 Thrilled to partner with smart master's student.

    27:44 Using local eco-friendly company for packaging materials.

    29:27 Customs issue with sourcing animal products.

    32:43 Learning the high cost of building a business.

    37:25 Developing product line with local designers, prototypes.

    41:18 Exciting event at Arapahoe Basin with free riders.

    44:16 More women supporting each other in sports.

    46:05 Advice: be prepared and buckle up.

    46:45 Favorite Piece of Outdoor Gear: Tire Repair Kit with Bacon and Noss Tire Sealant

    Favorite Book: Let My People Go Surfing, by Yvon Chouinard; Losing and Finding My Virginity by Richard Branson

    Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

    Learn More

    You can follow up with Kelly and Buttinski on Instagram and their website Buttnski.com

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

    #small business, #retail partnerships, #local brand, #online sales, #brand awareness, #bootstrapping, ski resorts, #women's products, #winter sports, #summer activities, #outdoor industry, #sustainable materials, #local manufacturers, #eco-friendly

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  • Welcome to episode 445 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, today I’m talking with Jon Neff founder of SKU Candy. Jon is a passionate and experienced entrepreneur and the Sku Candy mission is to be the premier buying and selling wholesale marketplace in the Outdoor, Lifestyle, Surf, and Sporting Goods Categories.

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    Show Notes

    09:25 Promotes positive interactions with shop owners.

    11:28 Challenges of trade show marketing.

    13:12 Creating a trustworthy brand message and distribution.

    16:38 Brands cater to emerging businesses and offer help to grow.

    20:27 Growth and challenges led to a successful platform.

    24:13 Brands expanding into retail, LISS makes surfboard racks.

    26:19 Pale Blue Earth offers rechargeable batteries to reduce pollution from disposable ones. They have a 1,000 charge cycle and a limited lifetime guarantee. Use code OD Biz Blue 15 for 15% off at paleblueearth.com.

    31:22 Experienced person continues to get gear questions.

    35:28 Encouragement to join the growing surfing industry due to diversification.

    37:48 Developing new platform, "we call it V2'.

    39:26 Brands and buyers seek new, unique, and innovative offerings for competitive advantage.

    41:34 Favorite piece of outdoor gear under a hundred dollars: Outdoor Elements Fire Biner and a new brand, Fire Maple, from Asia, which won ISPO awards and offers the X2.

    Favorite Books Jack Mars and Simion Sinek

    40:42 Thanks for listening to the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Rick Saez. Visit our website for more info and subscribe.

    Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

    Learn More

    You can follow up with Jon on Linkedin and by email: [email protected]

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

    #trade shows, #adventure products, #SKU Candy, #outdoor industry, #environmental issues, #technology in outdoor gear, #retail distribution, #direct-to-consumer, #REI Path Ahead Ventures, #alkaline batteries, #e-commerce challenges, #digital marketing, #sustainability practices, #1% for the planet, #sustainable materials, #wholesale marketplace, #Grand Trunk, #The Running Event, #Cotopaxi, #FireBeener, #Fire Maple

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  • Welcome to episode of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, today I’m talking with Alex Brown from the Texas Outdoor Recreation Alliance. The Alliance was established to assemble an engaged network of outdoor enthusiasts, value aligned businesses, innovators, and workforce leaders; organized and resolved to continuously shape, grow, and elevate the Texas’ outdoor recreation ecosystem and natural resources it depends on.

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    Show Notes

    04:34 Alex's says his passion for nature has always kind of been there. he was always the little kid now kind of running off into the woods or into the creek. They grew up around, and were in a pretty rural area, but you know, kind of on the outside of the suburbs, but had access to creeks and farm fields that they would climb fences and go over and, he was just always out there spending as much time as I could.

    5:00 His Grandparents got him into nature camps as a kid when he was in elementary age and, learned a lot about it and just learned to appreciate it and learn to spend time in it and just valued it and kind of just stuck throughout the rest of his life

    05:22 Alex's venture Geared Up was a startup that I saw as a way to maybe transition out of my career, which at that time was working as a project manager or a laboratory program manager with the DOD doing a lot of biomedical research programs

    06:56 The inspiration came from a bit of a bit of situational awareness just keeping an eye on what was happening with the outdoor industry. Geared Up was my sort of inundation into, you know, the Outdoor Industry Association and ORR and all these resources. And I saw These offices of outdoor rec popping up across the different states.

    And at that time I was looking for any kind of support I could get as a small business startup that was just, you know, burning the candle at all ends.

    12:38 Coordinating various groups for networking and idea exchange.

    15:25 Challenges in organization growth, prioritizing Texas first.

    19:03 Collaborating with nonprofits for mission alignment, soon to be announced.

    21:57 Launching platform, tapping into collaborative workspaces, engaging with local chambers of commerce.

    24:05 Exciting developments in Texas, momentum building for the future.

    26:16 Favorite Books: Into Thin Air and Unbroken

    Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

    Learn More Learn More

    The Campaign website, which is: trailblazetx.com

    IG

    Linkedin

    You can follow up with Alex on Linkedin

    and email: [email protected]

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

    #Texas Outdoor Recreation Alliance, #Outdoor Recreation Brands, #outdoor industry, #networking, #fundraising, #Texas, #small businesses, #outdoor gear, #outdoor events, #collaboration, #non-profit organization, #economic impact, #infrastructure development, #outdoor space

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  • Jake Wallace was born and raised in the corn fields of Iowa where he learned how to fix fences, build barns and generally throw hay bales larger than cows with ease. Life has been nothing but an adventure for Jake. In addition to working for NOLS Wilderness Medicine, he works as a professional mountain guide which takes him around the world to beautiful mountains and rivers alongside amazing people.

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    Show Notes

    00:00 Experiencing outdoor adventures sparked lifelong enthusiasm.

    03:59 Jake enjoys diverse pursuits and follows people they admire in various fields, such as outdoor education, leadership, and medicine. They believe in imparting wisdom and following the example of respected individuals.

    07:04 Trauma where a dear friend was killed spurred career change and led to helping others outdoors.

    11:13 Appreciating diverse cultures during travel.

    15:52 Swift water rescue training in California, accident injures teammate.

    18:13 Took first responder course, met friends, and kept up with instructors.

    21:23 Wilderness medicine course with three instructors, 30 students, hands-on training, high exam pass rate.

    25:32 It's important for groups and guides to push comfort levels for growth.

    26:16 Learning to manage risk as I age, considering family and recovery ability and the importance of open communication in decision-making.

    29:43 The future looks promising with growing outdoor interest, but time and money constraints may affect long outdoor courses like NOLS.

    34:47 Advice for aspiring outdoor industry professionals: Respect the community, follow your passion, and learn from experienced mentors.

    37:16 Favorite gear under $100: I've got this really old stuff sack that I think it was for a pair of skins from 15, 20, 20 years ago. That stuff sack

    always has all of my favorite snacks in it, so I think my favorite thing is my snack bag.

    38:15 Do you have a favorite book or two? Yeah, I read a lot. One of my favorite authors is Bill Bryson and a walk in the woods.

    Another I can't think of right now. I think it's called the Emerald Mile.

    40:42 Thanks for listening to the Outdoor Biz Podcast with Rick Saez. Visit our website for more info and subscribe.

    Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe and spread the word!

    Learn More

    You can follow up with Jake at [email protected] and NOLS on their website.

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

    #NOLS, #wilderness EMT training, #Lander, Wyoming, #risk mitigation, #outdoor activities, #Pale Blue Earth batteries, #outdoor safety, #Devil's Lake, #mountain river guide, #outdoor education, #outdoor gear, #risk management, #environmental stewardship, #Wilderness Medicine, #swift water rescue, #instructor training.

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  • Today on Episode 442 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast I’m talking with Lava Linens founder Mary Swanson. With a Master's Degree in Public Health and Environment and 15+ years of experience in the government and nonprofit sectors, Mary Swanson has now found herself leading the next generation outdoor gear company.

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    Show Notes

    00:00 Episode 442 features Lava Linens founder, Mary Swanson, discussing eco-friendly outdoor gear.

    03:14 Memories of childhood road trips and first trip to Peru with partner.

    09:04 Challenging sourcing for quality linen towel.

    10:42 Process of making high quality linen textile involves 12 manual steps, resulting in soft, mid-weight fabric with art and science.

    13:20 Received valuable support, led to success, continuing partnership.

    19:36 Surprised and grateful for connections, creating custom products.

    22:36 Sponsored Granite Gear's groundskeepers, open to partnerships for natural fiber gear.

    27:26 Focus on learning, purpose beyond production.

    29:53 Favorite items under $100 include a Garmin Watch and Vibram 5 Finger shoes used after foot surgery.

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

    Learn More

    You can follow Mary on her LinkedIn page and their website, Lava Linens

    Next Steps

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

    Newsletter Subscribe

    Keywords

    #Outdoor industry #Natural fiber textiles #Minimalistic approach #Affordable outdoor gear #Sustainable products #Lava Linens #Sun protection gear #Natural fiber gear #Innovative fabrics #Eco-friendly products #Legacy brand #Flax cultivation #Small business partnerships #Custom-designed towels #Environmental sustainability

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

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

    20:39 Editors are flexible about travel stories.

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

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

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

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

    Jessicas Favorite Book: The Alchemist

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

    Learn More

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

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ATTA Partners

    ATTA Event Calendar

    Follow up with Shannon:

    Linkedin

    ATTA website

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

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

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

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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  • 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!

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

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

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

    You can follow Chez at Chez Connects

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    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

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

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

    To learn more about them at the ATCF

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    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

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  • 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.

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

    20:58 Proposing garment recycling for polyester energy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Keywords

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

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  • 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.

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    Show Notes

    00:00 Entrepreneur recounts excitement of starting river company.

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

    11:47 Hidden creatures ambush and devour prey underwater.

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

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

    26:42 Pioneering adventure travel company explores new frontiers.

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

    43:37 Enjoying meeting locals and sharing meals worldwide.

    49:15 Global adventure travel company survives through challenges.

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

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

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

    49:46 Uganda article

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

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

    Learn More

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

    and on these social sites

    You Tube

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    Facebook

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    You can find Mtn Travel Sobek here

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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  • 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.

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    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

    14:21 Passionate about surprising complexity of textile industry.

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

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

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

    27:41 Hiking, mud mishap in South Carolina.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

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

    You can also visit Meg on these social sites:

    Facebook

    Linkedin

    Instagram

    YouTube

    Pinterest

    Anchorfm

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

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

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

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

    Show Notes

    04:14 Founding company, bonding with biking community.

    08:09 Discovering electrolytes; the neon fluid phenomenon.

    11:12 Innovative water system with effective cleaning solutions.

    15:17 Learning from selling minimum viable product critical.

    16:57 Passion for building physical products drove success.

    22:21 Life is a constant ebb and flow.

    31:23 Modular system with detachable and replaceable parts.

    33:17 Embracing challenges leads to personal growth.

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

    39:47 Validate your business idea with data first.

    43:52 Building anything is valuable in business.

    Learn More

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

    You can also visit MXXY on these social sites:

    Facebook

    Linkedin

    Instagram

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

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

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

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

    Show Notes

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

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

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

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

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

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

    22:06 Outdoor industry leads in photography and sustainability.

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

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

    You can also visit Rachel on these social sites:

    Facebook

    X

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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  • 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.

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

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

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

    13:08 Ecuadorian heritage fuels passion for trail running.

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

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

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

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

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

    Learn More

    You can follow up with Nadia here:

    Links

    [email protected]

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

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

    Learn More

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

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

    YouTube

    Facebook

    X

    Instagram

    Next Steps

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

    Keywords

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

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

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

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    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

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