The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source Selling mountain bikes all over the planet (Friends)
18 snips
Jul 4, 2025 
Jeff Cayley, an entrepreneur and mountain bike enthusiast, shares his journey from pro biker to founder of Worldwide Cyclery and Kettle Mountain Apparel. He discusses the evolution of the mountain biking industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales. Cayley also delves into the challenges of engaging customers through YouTube content and the importance of community-building. He highlights the significance of quality in high-end bike components and the growth of innovative apparel, showcasing how passion fuels business success.
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Early Business Lessons
- Jeff Cayley learned business by doing from a young age, including selling items on eBay as a child. - He opened Worldwide Cyclery at 21 and grew it focused on high-end mountain bike enthusiasts.
Industry Insight Fuels Strategy
- Deep industry knowledge revealed strategic opportunities against incumbents. - Understanding competitors' strengths and weaknesses helped locate where to fit in and compete.
Serve, Don't Sell
- Use authentic content marketing and YouTube videos to build fans, not just customers. - Educate and serve enthusiasts to differentiate your brand and inspire loyalty.