Outdoor Biz Podcast Rick Saez

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.
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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: Alex@txora.org
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
Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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 jake_wallace@nols.edu 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.
Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.
 
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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
Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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
Podcast produced using Descript, CastMagic
Podcast hosted by Libsyn use code 'outdoorbizpod' for 20% OFF
Show Notes powered by Castmagic
Website powered by Wordpress

Note: As an Affiliate of Amazon and others, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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."
Facebook​ ​Twitter​ ​Instagram​
Love the show? Subscribe, ​rate, review, and share!​
Sign up for my Newsletter ​HERE​
I’d love to hear your feedback about the show!
You can contact me here: ​rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com

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 Trai