Spinning Yarns with Sugar Bowl CEO Bridget Legnavsky | E78

In today’s world of the mega pass like Epic and Ikon, small independent ski resorts are struggling to survive. But one of the oldest ski resorts in America – in one of the snowiest places on Earth – is thriving. Founded in 1939 by Hannes Schroll and funded by Walt Disney, Sugar Bowl Resort on Donner Summit has welcomed both families and hardcore skiers for generations, offering a friendly, laid back vibe and expert terrain. In Episode 78, we spin yarns with Sugar Bowl CEO, Bridget Legnavsky – a CEO who absolutely shreds on skis – discussing a recent $100 million investment, helping “The Bowl” stay competitive against Epic and Ikon resorts while honoring its blend of European and American traditions. We also chat about why Bridget thinks Sugar Bowl is one of the most unique resorts in the world, the differences between her home country of New Zealand and America, the future sustainability of skiing, why Lake Tahoe isn’t more of an international ski destination, and if Summit Chair will spin more than 3 days this year.

2:30 – Recording from Sugar Bowl Resort.

4:30 – Last episode, zero snow. This episode, 10+ feet of snow. Instant winter.

7:00 – Dangerous snow conditions – lots of avalanches. Inspecting a slide at Latopie Lake near Sonora Pass with Bridgeport Avalanche Center.

11:30 – Fatal snowmobile-triggered avalanche on Castle Peak. Reel the program back.

14:25 – Ski Patrol fatality at Mammoth Mountain during the post-Christmas storm.

15:20 – Telluride ski patrol went on strike and are still on strike.

17:30 – Interviewing Bridget Legnavsky, CEO of Sugar Bowl Resort.

19:50 – If you’re a snowmobiler – get educated. Understand the risks of the backcountry.

21:40 – New amenities at Sugar Bowl – new deck, locker room, restaurant and Ratskeller area.

25:13 – What are some of Bridget’s favorite Kiwi slang words?

26:05 – What words do New Zealanders use to describe snow conditions?

27:30 – Sugar Bowl community is heavily into performing music.

29:20 – Bridget’s first winter was the winter of 2022-23, one of the biggest in Sierra history.

30:45 – Working as a ski instructor in Japan, Europe, Breckenridge and Aspen, Colorado.

33:50 – What makes Sugar Bowl unique in the ski industry?

35:30 – How did Bridget find Sugar Bowl?

37:30 – The unique structure of Sugar Bowl – owned by homeowners.

43:30 – Replacing the village gondola – a $50 million project.        

48:30 – Misconceptions about mountain operations and ski patrol.

54:04 – The rising operational cost of running a ski resort.

58:20 – Are the Vail Epic Pass and Alterra Ikon Pass the biggest threats to the future of Sugar Bowl?

1:05:45 – What’s the difference between Kiwis and Aussies?

1:07:45 – How has the family adapted to American life?

1:09:00 – Are there things Americans can take from New Zealand culture and vice versa?

1:12:30 – Are you a shoveler or a packer?

1:14:30 – What is the vision for the future of Sugar Bowl?

1:19:00 – Listener questions: What’s up with Summit chair lift?

1:21:20 – What is Sugar Bowl doing to keep skiing affordable for families?

1:23:30 – Paying more for a season pass but getting a lesser experience.

1:25:40 – Why is Lake Tahoe not an international destination ski market?           

1:32:00 – Ease of access to skiing in the Tahoe region is second to none.

1:35:15 – Where do you see Sugar Bowl in 20 years?

1:39:40 – Dope or Derp Sugar Bowl report card.

1:48:30 – Why has the season pass purchase turned into a March thing instead of fall?

1:50:40 – Does Sugar Bowl have plans to expand mountain bike trails in the summer?

1:54:00 – What does Mind the Track mean to you?