Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast

Rick Saez
  • 5.0 (89)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From mountain towns to far-flung trails, host Rick Saez sits down with the people driving the outdoor and adventure travel world. Each week, you'll hear stories of exploration, creativity, and purpose — from guides and writers to conservationists and entrepreneurs — all united by a love of the outdoors and a life lived close to adventure.

  1. 1D AGO

    Clarity Over Chaos, Why Founder Led Brands Don't Need More Marketing with Jessica Dodson

    🔥 Episode Summary If your marketing feels busy but not effective, this episode is for you. Rick sits down with brand strategist Jessica Dodson to unpack why most founder-led brands don't actually need more marketing—they need clarity. From aligning your brand story to simplifying execution, Jessica shares how stepping back can help you move forward faster. You'll learn how to cut through the noise, focus on what really matters, and build a brand that connects with your audience in a meaningful, measurable way. 🧭 What You'll Learn Why "more marketing" often leads to wasted effort The real meaning of clarity—and how to achieve it Signs you're doing too much (and not the right things) How to align brand, messaging, and business goals A simple framework for turning vision into execution What a clear go-to-market strategy actually looks like Why community and authenticity matter more than ever The first step to take if your brand feels scattered 💡 Key Takeaways 1. Clarity beats activity More tactics don't equal better results. Clear messaging makes everything work harder. 2. Do fewer things, better Focus on 1–3 priorities instead of chasing every new idea or trend. 3. Alignment is everything Your brand story, product, marketing, and team all need to be telling the same story. 4. Stop before you start again If things feel scattered—pause, reassess, and get back to fundamentals. 5. Community is a competitive advantage In-person and authentic brand experiences create deeper connections than digital alone. Action Step Feeling overwhelmed? Bring your team together this week and ask: What do we stand for? What are we trying to achieve? What's actually working? Start the conversation—clarity begins there.  About Jessica Dodson Jessica Dodson is a brand strategist who helps purpose-driven organizations align their purpose, people, and marketing to create lasting impact. With experience across nonprofit, travel, and outdoor brands—including Eagle Creek—she specializes in bringing clarity and focus to growing teams.  Connect with Jessica LinkedIn Website: https://dodsonconsulting.co Email: jessica@dodsonconsulting.co  Listen & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and share it with someone building a brand in the outdoor or adventure space.

    33 min

  2. APR 14

    547 Visit Livingston and Yellowstone

    Kris King tells us all about planning a visit to Livingston and Yellowstone Episode Overview What if you could experience Yellowstone National Park without the crowds—and pair it with a vibrant arts scene, authentic local culture, and year-round adventure? In this episode, Rick sits down with Chris, Executive Director of the Livingston Business Improvement District and Explore Livingston, to uncover why Livingston, Montana, might be one of the most underrated gateway towns in the West. From its roots as a historic railroad hub to its evolution into a thriving arts community, Livingston blends outdoor adventure with creativity, culture, and small-town authenticity. Chris shares insider tips on when to visit, what to do, and how to experience the town like a local. 🧭 What You'll Learn in This Episode Why Livingston is considered the original gateway to Yellowstone How a former railroad town became a hub for artists, writers, and creatives The best times of year to visit (hint: it's NOT summer) How Livingston balances tourism growth with local quality of life Unique ways to experience the outdoors without the crowds Why "Live Like a Local" is more than just a slogan 🏞️ Top Experiences in Livingston Must-Do Outdoor Adventures Pine Creek Falls – A stunning and accessible hike with options to go deeper into the wilderness Yellowstone in Winter – Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful wildlife viewing Yellowstone River – Kayaking, fishing, or relaxing riverside picnics Unique Local Experiences Soak at Chico Hot Springs or Yellowstone Hot Springs Explore 12+ art galleries and multiple live theaters Catch live music at one of 12 intimate venues Attend a book reading, comedy show, or storytelling night Browse local shops—no chain stores downtown 🎨 What Makes Livingston Different? A historic railroad town with architecture that feels like an Old West movie set One of the highest writers-per-capita communities in the U.S. A thriving arts scene with: Galleries Live theater Music venues Craft workshops A strong focus on authentic, small-scale, local experiences 📅 When to Visit Best Times: Fall: Elk bugling, warm temps, fewer crowds Winter: Snow-covered landscapes, skiing in Yellowstone, hot springs under the stars Spring: Wildlife babies, blooming flowers, fewer visitors Avoid if possible: Summer – Peak crowds, limited availability, and a very different experience 🧳 Sample "Perfect Day" in Livingston Cool Season: Grab a pastry from a local bakery Head into Yellowstone for cross-country skiing Picnic lunch with local gourmet food Soak in hot springs End the day with live music or theater Warm Season: Morning kayak on the Yellowstone River Lunch (surprisingly!) at the local hospital café with an art collection Hike Myers River View Trail Visit the farmer's market or bookstore event Go dancing or catch live music at night 🌟 Key Takeaway Livingston isn't just a stop on the way to Yellowstone—it's a destination in its own right. If you want a more meaningful, less crowded, and more culturally rich Montana experience, Livingston offers the perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and community. 🌐 Plan Your Trip 👉 Website: https://explorelivingstonmt.com 📧 Email: info@explorelivingstonmt.com Explore itineraries, events, and insider tips—and even reach out directly for personalized recommendations. 🎧 Enjoying the Show? If you found value in this episode: ⭐ Leave a rating on Apple Podcasts 📲 Share it with a fellow adventure traveler 🌍 Visit https://ricksaez.com for more episodes and resources 🧭 Want to Be Featured? If you're a destination marketing leader with incredible outdoor experiences to share, Rick would love to hear from you. 📩 Reach out: rick@ricksaez.com

    28 min

  3. APR 7

    546 From Manufacturing to Orange Mud: Josh Sprague on Product Design, Grit, and Building an Outdoor Brand

    Josh Sprague, founder of Orange Mud, joins Rick to share how a simple frustration on the trail turned into a successful outdoor gear brand. Drawing on his manufacturing background, Josh breaks down what it takes to design durable products, scale production, and compete in a crowded market. They also discuss hard lessons from supply chain disruptions, the importance of systems and customer education, and why most product ideas fail. Plus, how endurance sports like trail running shape resilience in business. A must-listen for founders, creators, and outdoor industry professionals.

    43 min

  4. FEB 10

    545 Kevin Paulson : Outdoor Storytelling and Content Creation

    Kevin Paulson talks about Outdoor Story Telling, Tradeshows, Hunting, and more Episode Summary Kevin Paulson joins Rick Saez to talk about growing up in a U.S. Forest Service family, how hunting shaped his life, and the path that led him from guiding and outfitting to founding HuntingLife.com and later stepping into the role of Executive Director at AGLOW Outdoors. Kevin breaks down what "authentic" outdoor media really means today, why podcasting is exploding, how AI will challenge creators, and why every creator needs to start building an email list now. He also shares how AGLOW conferences and media camps work, why networking is everything, and what gear he's most excited to test this year. In This Episode, You'll Hear Kevin's upbringing around public lands and the Forest Service (and how it shaped his values) Hunting "in his dad's hip pocket" starting at age five Why he launched HuntingLife.com (and how the 2007–2009 economy forced a pivot) What AGLOW is, why it matters, and how it evolved from local newspaper columns to modern creators Why authenticity + trust beats "information" (especially in an AI-driven content world) The biggest threat in outdoor media: AI "slop content" and the fight for attention The most underrated asset: your email list Why niche audiences ("100 true fans") often beat massive reach Kevin's "year of the coyote" and what predator control looks like on working ranch land OutdoorHive.com: a job resource built specifically for the hook-and-bullet + trade show industry Gear, books, and advice for new outdoor communicators Memorable Quotes "Connection and authenticity—at the end of the day—that's what wins." "It's more important to have an audience of a hundred that loves you than a hundred thousand that may or may not pay attention." "Begin tomorrow… building your own mailing list." "Proximity is power—be in the room with the people doing the things." Resources & Links Mentioned HuntingLife.com OutdoorHive.com: AAGLOW Organizations mentioned: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, RMEF, Ducks Unlimited, NWTF, SCI, POMA, OWAA Books Kevin mentioned: The Old Man and the Sea (Hemingway) A Sand County Almanac (Aldo Leopold) Peter Ryan titles, including The Hunting Life and Wild South (as referenced in the interview) About Kevin Paulson Kevin Paulson is a lifelong outdoorsman, entrepreneur, and advocate for hunting and conservation. He's the founder of HuntingLife.com, creator of OutdoorHive.com, and serves as the Executive Director of AGLOW Outdoors, one of the oldest hook-and-bullet media organizations in the industry. Connect with Kevin Social: @HuntingLife (most platforms) Kevin Paulson LinkedIn  Email: kevin@atglowoutdoors.com kevin@huntinglife.com kevin@outdoorhive.com Sponsor / Partner With the Show Hey there, adventure crew—want to reach 4,000+ outdoor lovers each week? Promote your brand, product, destination, or project to an audience of campers, hikers, and adventure travelers. Email Rick: rick@ricksaez.com Facebook   Instagram Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! I'd love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: rick@ricksaez.com

    1h 6m

  5. FEB 3

    544 The Wonders and Wilds of Destinations Morocco

    You deserve an unforgettable Moroccan adventure. Today I'm talking with Azdean Elmoustaqiim from Destinations Morocco, your guide to a seamless and authentic tour.  Show Notes In our latest podcast episode, Speaker A sat down with Azzedine Elamustakim from Destinations Morocco for a journey through the magic of Morocco. If you're dreaming of vibrant souks, sweeping deserts, epic mountain climbs, and unique cultural experiences, this episode is a must-listen! Here are the key takeaways and tips for your next adventure—plus some behind-the-scenes insights you won't want to miss. Featured Guest: Azdean Elmoustaqiim Born and raised in Marrakesh, Azdean is passionate about helping travelers experience Morocco like a local. Destinations Morocco customizes trips for all travelers, with a special focus on women-led groups and families. Top Adventure Highlight: The Moroccan Desert The desert—especially Merzouga—is a life-changing experience. From caravan rides to luxury camps, it's more than just a one-night stop! Explore fossil mountains, visit nomadic villages, and dive into Gnawa music traditions. Travel Tips from the Show For your first visit: Spend a day in Fes if you're short on time—walk winding car-free streets and travel through centuries in just a few blocks. Active adventures: Morocco has it all—deserts, mountains (hello, Mount Toubkal at 13,000 ft!), and coastlines. Plan your itinerary wisely; sometimes it's better to split north and south. Culture-mixing made easy: Embrace cooking classes, tasting tours, and local market strolls for a real taste of Morocco. Pacing matters: Avoid jam-packed schedules. Leave room for spontaneous moments and downtime! Best Time to Visit Spring (March to June) and Fall (September to November) are ideal for outdoor adventure—pleasant weather, fewer crowds. Cultural Tips Be mindful in rural areas: Ask before taking photos, avoid handshakes with women unless invited, and consider wearing local clothing to blend in and connect. Morocco's diversity means you'll rarely feel out of place; just come with openness and respect. Food to Try: Don't miss the roasted chicken with preserved lemon and green olives—Azzedine's favorite after a long day out! Safety & Language Morocco is safe, welcoming, and multilingual. Don't hesitate to hire a guide for your first visit—they can make all the difference. Connect & Plan Your Adventure Find Destinations Morocco at destinationsmorocco.com to book a discovery call, or tune in to their podcast for more inspiration and tips. Facebook   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@ricksaez.com Don't Miss Out! Be sure to check out the full episode for even more travel stories, practical advice, and insider secrets from Rick and Azdean, And as always, if you found the discussion helpful, leave us a rating on Apple Podcasts and share with a friend! Happy adventuring, The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast Team

    38 min

  6. JAN 27

    543 Paul Ganger: Reimagining Outdoor Retailer, Leading With Integrity, and Building Dreamland Safari Tours in Kanab, Utah

    In this episode, Rick sits down with Paul Gagner, an outdoor industry veteran and co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours. Paul's four-decade career spans retail, sales rep life, and leadership roles at iconic outdoor brands, and his current work is helping guide the reimagined Outdoor Retailer show. Show Notes Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast — Episode 543 Paul Gagner: Reimagining Outdoor Retailer, Leading With Integrity, and Building Dreamland Safari Tours in Kanab, Utah Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast—where we share inspiring stories, thrilling adventures, and expert insights from leaders and legends across the outdoor adventure travel community. In this episode, Rick sits down with Paul Gagner (outdoor industry veteran + co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours in Kanab, Utah Dreamland Safari Tours). Paul's four-decade career spans retail, sales rep life, and leadership roles at iconic outdoor brands—plus his current work helping guide the reimagined Outdoor Retailer show headed to Minneapolis, August 19–21, 2026. Outdoor Retailer Episode highlights Outdoor Retailer "tribe energy": why the show has always felt like a high-school reunion—and why outdoor is different than other industries (shared passion, not backstabbing). Long-view leadership: Paul's core values—integrity, listening, collaboration, and innovation—and how they apply across retail, brand, and rep roles. Dreamland Safari Tours: buying a guide business right before COVID, shutting down 10 days later, then having one of the best years in the company's history after reopening. Why Minneapolis: "the outdoors is woven into the city"—lakes, trails, paths, and a vibrant outdoor economy surrounding the convention center. Star Tribune Leadership Village: creating a space for diverse voices, spirited debate, and actionable outcomes (not just conference "talk"). Outdoor Retailer New + Discovery focus: elevating emerging brands and the retail experience (including collaboration with Garage Grown Gear). Outdoor Retailer Experience-first mornings: the idea of protecting time for trail runs/paddles before the show floor opens—so attendees walk in energized and connected to the why. Favorite gear: Paul's go-to piece—his Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit Pack—and the bigger lesson: simplicity wins. About Paul Gagner Paul Gagner is a veteran outdoor industry leader and the co-owner (with his wife, Sunny Stroeer) of Dreamland Safari Tours, based in Kanab, Utah. Dreamland Safari Tours Their company offers hiking, backpacking, scenic tours, and astrophotography experiences/workshops in the desert Southwest. Dreamland Safari Tours   Paul also co-leads the Outdoor Retailer Leadership Village—a stakeholder-led initiative shaping the reimagined national show in Minneapolis. Outdoor Retailer What you'll take away from this conversation Why trust is the real currency of outdoor retail + brand partnerships How "innovation" doesn't have to mean reinventing everything—it can mean relentlessly improving what matters Why outdoor businesses (and trade shows) need to deliver actionable ideas people can take home and use immediately How guide businesses can thrive when they focus on transformation: getting people outside and watching what happens next Links & resources Dreamland Safari Tours (Kanab, UT) Dreamland Safari Tours Dreamland Safari Tours — About Paul + Sunny Dreamland Safari Tours Dreamland Safari Tours — Intro to Astrophotography Workshop Dreamland Safari Tours Outdoor Retailer — Official site + 2026 Minneapolis dates (Aug 19–21, 2026) Outdoor Retailer Outdoor Retailer — Leadership Village + Garage Grown Gear collaboration announcement

    59 min

  7. JAN 22

    542 Maren Hamilton Connects Outdoor Brands and Audiences Through Social Media

    In this episode, Rick Saez sits down with Maren Hamilton, an outdoor industry marketing expert known for helping iconic brands like The North Face build communities that genuinely connect — not just "engage." Show Notes Maren is a SHORTY Award winner, an Oregon Outdoor Alliance board member, and the founder of Outdoor Industry Coffee and Coworking. She's also led social strategy at brands like Starbucks and The North Face, and today she's helping outdoor brands and creators thrive through her work at Popfly. From the early days of Instagram and Starbucks' viral Pink Drink, to flying a helicopter to deliver a replacement rain jacket in New Zealand, Maren shares what it really takes to be a social-first brand — and why community management is one of the most overlooked growth opportunities in outdoor marketing. In This Episode, You'll Learn How Maren broke into the outdoor industry and landed at The North Face What the early days of social media marketing looked like inside Starbucks corporate How "social listening" helped inspire what became the Starbucks Pink Drink What it means to be a social-first brand (and not just treat social like another channel) Why community management is the most underrated growth lever for outdoor brands How The North Face pulled off a real-time viral moment with a helicopter jacket delivery How Maren thinks about balancing brand integrity with clickable content What makes a strong creator or athlete partnership — and what red flags to avoid The biggest challenges marketers are navigating right now (AI, creators, and trust) Why representation and inclusion still matter — even when the world gets louder Advice for smaller outdoor brands trying to make a real impact without a huge budget 🌲 Memorable Moments & Stories ⭐ From "Internet-Obsessed Kid" to Social Strategy Leader Maren shares how her love of the internet started early—teaching herself how to customize early social profiles—and how that curiosity turned into a career in digital marketing. ☕ The Starbucks "Pink Drink" Origin Story Before it became a menu staple, the Pink Drink was simply a customer-created hack that went viral. Maren explains how their team spotted it through early "manual social listening," engaged the creator, and helped turn it into a cultural moment. 🧥 The North Face Helicopter Jacket Story One of the wildest stories in the episode: a customer's waterproof jacket failed mid-hike in New Zealand… and she demanded a replacement delivered to the trail. Maren and her team made it happen — using real-time social, an athlete partner, and a helicopter. And the best part? The North Face CMO signed off with one simple message: "Go have fun." Follow up with Maren: Instagram  LinkedIn  Popfly  Outdoor Industry Coffee and Coworking   .

    31 min

  8. 12/31/2025

    541 Howard Fox, Emanuel Rose and I re-cap our podcasting year in this Holiday Special Episode

    Welcome to episode 541 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. A Holiday conversation about podcasting with Howard Fox and Emanuel Rose.   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 Howard Fox https://www.outdooradventureseries.com/ Emanuel Rose https://emanuelrose.com/ #Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #adventure travel, #outdoor adventures, #podcasting, #Outdoor Writers Association of America, #OWAA, #outdooradventureseries, #emanuelrose.com

    39 min
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5
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89 Ratings

About

From mountain towns to far-flung trails, host Rick Saez sits down with the people driving the outdoor and adventure travel world. Each week, you'll hear stories of exploration, creativity, and purpose — from guides and writers to conservationists and entrepreneurs — all united by a love of the outdoors and a life lived close to adventure.

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