KORE Outdoors Podcast

Sam Digiambattista was shopping for a ski jacket when he discovered that Gore-Tex—the gold standard in outdoor fabrics for 50 years—is made with PFAS, harmful forever chemicals. Rather than accepting the status quo, the then-teenager decided to do something about it. In the two years since, Sam has developed his own PFAS-free waterproof breathable fabric and launched Indersity, a technical outerwear brand committed to environmental responsibility without sacrificing performance. At just 19 years old, Sam demonstrates remarkable conviction and values-driven leadership that makes you believe sustainable innovation is possible in the outdoor industry.Topics Covered:Why this teenager rejected the fabric standardFrom zero knowledge to proprietary fabric in two yearsSpeed wins: Building a technical brand without waiting for permissionTaking on investors to capitalize on an opportunityGetting athletes on board earlyStaying hands-on while growingLinks:IndersityKORE podcast episode with Alex LauverKORE podcast episode with Casey ShawFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Pete Day of Mosko Moto reveals what it takes to build a premium adventure motorcycle gear brand from the ground up. He explains why product quality is the foundation of everything, how they design for hardcore users who demand maximum utility, and the balance between innovation and accessibility. Pete shares insights on maintaining premium status while staying within reach of working riders, building community through 50+ annual events and multi-day riding experiences, and growing his Instagram to 90K+ followers. The conversation ends with Pete's definition of success and why the interesting path beats the efficient one every time.A few topics from the episode:The product-first philosophy: "Nobody wants to be in your community if your product sucks"Designing for hardcore users: maximizing utility for riders who push gear to its limitsThe danger of detaching into an "ivory tower" of premium pricing and exotic materialsWhy Mosko attends 50+ events annually and hosts multi-day riding and camping experienGrowing a personal Instagram following to 90K+ while staying authentic to the sportLinksMosko MotoPete's Instagram @moskopeteKuiu Purple Cow by Seth GodinDusty Lizard campoutFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Mike Blarowski, co-founder of Pinkbike and Shopify expert, joins the KORE Outdoors Podcast to unpack what he calls the Shopify Advantage—how outdoor brands can simplify e-commerce and build businesses that support their lifestyle. From early lessons at Pinkbike to helping founders optimize their online stores, Mike shares practical insights on using Shopify effectively, creating high-converting email flows, and adapting to the future of AI-driven search. This episode is a field guide for makers and entrepreneurs who want to grow online without losing their connection to the outdoors.What “the Shopify Advantage” means for outdoor brandsCommon e-commerce mistakes and how to fix themUsing email automation to convert visitors into loyal customersHow AI is changing SEO and online marketingThe best apps for your Shopify storeLearn more about KORELinks to what was mentioned on this episode:Iceberg Commerce (Mike's E-commerce Agency)Pixel Union ThemesGoogle PageSpeed InsightsGT MetrixSparkLayerKlaviyoCopy That copywriting courseCopy PosseShopify Apps:Locksmith Judge.me GorgiasMyWorksBetterReportsKNO CommerceMatrixifyConnect with Mike on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Cristina Ashbaugh, co-founder of Yardsale, shares how they reinvented the ski pole by adding magnets and modular design—starting with taped-together prototypes in her San Francisco apartment. With no industry experience, she and co-founder Kelly McGee launched their business unconventionally: through NYC subway ads, cold-calling ski shops as a "student researcher," and a rehearsed Shark Tank pitch that secured an investment from Kendra Scott. Cristina discusses tactical strategies, including DIY PR that landed Fast Company coverage, managing wholesale complexity with customizable products, why they're running their own fulfillment instead of using a 3PL, and expanding beyond ski poles into bags and technical apparel for the "90% of skiers."Learn more about KORE OutdoorsLinksYardsale websiteYardsale's Substack (Behind the scenes of building the brand)See their NYC subway ads & truck adsWatch their Shark Tank episodeSouth Park documentary about their creative process: 6 Days to AirConnect with Cristina on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Darren Rayner has been shaping how brands tell stories online for more than two decades. As the founder of Magnafire, a Vancouver-based creative agency working with Red Bull, Arc’teryx, and Lululemon, Darren shares how his early days running a snowboard apparel brand gave him a unique lens on content long before “content” was a thing. In this episode, we trace his journey from spray-painting t-shirts and hacking video streams in 2001 to leading a team producing some of the most effective short-form content in the outdoor industry today. Darren breaks down why short videos outperform long ones, how brands can use the “content pyramid” to stretch their budgets, and why founder-led storytelling matters more than ever. It’s a practical, inspiring conversation for any entrepreneur who wants to use video strategically without overcomplicating it.Learn more about KORE OutdoorsHighlights from the conversation:Darren’s apparel brand and the ahead-of-its-time content strategy that helped them growThe shift from long-form to short-form video and how brands adaptedMagnifier’s “content pyramid” framework for efficient content creationFounder-led storytelling and building trust through transparencyBrand vs performance marketing budgets (70/30 approach) and evolving funnelsConnect with Darren on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInLinks to things mentioned in the conversation:MagnafireZendaya x On Running - Zone DreamersSatisfy Running - I Think I Saw You On My Run TodayLiquid Death's YouTube ChannelGucci short film starring Demi Moore & Edward Norton For more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

In this episode, Christian sits down with Bill Amos, founder of Northwest Alpine, to talk candidly about his decision to close the company after 15 years. Bill shares what went into making the call, the relief that followed, and he reflects on what he's learned through the experience. From the challenges of sustaining a U.S.-made apparel brand to the pressures of demand, cash flow, and retail consolidation, Bill offers unfiltered insights on the hard truths of entrepreneurship. He also reflects on the future of domestic manufacturing, why demand matters more than margin, and what independent retailers and small brands need to survive in a changing market. This conversation is an honest look at the other side of building a brand—the moment when stepping away is the wisest choice.Episode HighlightsThe decision-making process behind closing Northwest Alpine and how Bill felt after the announcement.Why demand, not margin, is the biggest driver of viability for small brands.Lessons from running a U.S.-based manufacturing business—and why Bill still believes in its future.The current state of outdoor specialty retail, the REI problem, and what independents need to thrive.Why direct-to-consumer is increasingly expensive, wholesale is tough, and what founders can do to find a "third way".The importance of in-person connection, founder-led storytelling, and community-driven growth.Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build U.S.-made outdoor brands—and why Bill says to “wait five years.”What’s next for Bill as he takes on a new role leading apparel development at Spiritus Systems.Learn more about KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation EnterpriseConnect with Bill on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear and keynote speaker at the upcoming KORE Summit, returns to the podcast for a timely conversation about leading a growing business, why ultralight backpacking has become backpacking and the future of independent outdoor retail.Episode Highlights:The personal evolution from doing everything to leading everything — how Lloyd shifted from solopreneur to CEO.Garage Grown Gear’s framework for saying “no” to good ideas to make room for great ones.Why ultralight backpacking isn’t a niche anymore—it’s becoming the new norm in outdoor retail.The importance of staying deeply connected to your brand’s purpose and resisting horizontal sprawl.How independent retailers can win by creating spaces of discovery, not sameness.Links:Connect with Lloyd on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInGarage Grown GearAdotec Gear (bear bags)Derek Sivers - "Hell Yeah or No"Norda RunHuckberryNathan Barry - Skyscrapers vs. Strip MallsNemo HornetBlack Diamond Deploy Down Hoody 0.5Justin Outdoors YouTube channelFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

In this episode, Christian talks with Tony McWilliam, founder of Faction Skis, about the realities of starting and scaling a product-focused brand. Drawing from his design background, Tony shares how design thinking helps with branding, problem-solving, and decision-making. He dives into the risks of expanding too quickly, the importance of staying focused, and why early-stage founders should do every job themselves. They explore the value of deep relationships with factories, retailers, and mentors and candid advice on margin, funding options, and building a sustainable business. A must-listen for outdoor industry entrepreneurs navigating the messy middle of brand growth.Episode Highlights:Why design thinking is a powerful framework for brand building and problem-solving.The three pillars every business needs: Product, Demand, and Distribution.What founders should not outsource in the first few years.Why deep relationships with factories are more valuable than chasing the cheapest quote.Candid advice on margin: it matters, but not at the expense of long-term success.The importance of mentorship, community, and asking for help in the early stages.Links:KORE Outdoors Tony's Website: The Woods AgencyCandide SkisForward Outdoor ApparelFaction SkisDb JourneyBlack Crows SkisLooking Sideways Podcast with Db Journey founder Truls BrataasConnect with Tony on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInThe KORE Podcast is a production of the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise and is supported by the Province of British Columbia. Learn more about KORE and the podcast: https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/

In this episode, Heather Kelly, founder of Heather’s Choice, shares the raw, real story behind building her food company from scratch. She talks about how outdoor adventures shaped her confidence, what she learned from raising early-stage capital, and the emotional toll of nearly going bankrupt. Heather also reflects on her Shark Tank appearance, the big move from Alaska to Oregon, and why she’s choosing to scale her business her way. This is a conversation about ambition, resilience, and staying grounded in your values even when the pressure to grow fast gets loud. If you’re building something, this one’s for you.Topics We CoverThe tension between growth, authenticity, and maintaining control in founder-led businessesHow adventure and time offline influence entrepreneurial resilience and creativityThe reality of startup funding: lessons from angel investment and Shark TankThe evolving mission and market of Heather’s Choice—from outdoor meals to everyday solutionsThe bold move from Alaska to Oregon to scale manufacturing and build a sustainable futureLearn more about KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation EnterpriseLinks:Heather's ChoiceProper Hotel - AustinProfit First - bookConnect with Heather on LinkedInConnect with Christian on LinkedInChristian's websiteFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

This episode is a conversation with Dawson Westeknsow, a seasoned product leader in the outdoor industry who has held key roles at Thule, REI, and Oboz Footwear. Now working as a professional EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer, Dawson shares the principles of EOS and how it can dramatically improve leadership, structure, and clarity for businesses—especially those in the outdoor industry.Key Topics:Dawson’s Journey into Outdoor Product Management From sales at a power tool company to leading product at REI and Oboz, Dawson’s entrepreneurial spirit found a home in product roles that mimicked running mini-businesses within larger organizationsDiscovering EOS Dawson was first exposed to EOS while working with a founder-led outdoor brand facing leadership dysfunction. The system helped untangle issues by introducing clarity, structure, and accountability.What Is EOS? EOS is a simple, proven framework to help business owners get what they want from their business by focusing on:Vision – Clear goals and a roadmap to get there.People – Right people in the right seats.Data – Running the business on facts, not feelings.Issues – Identifying and solving problems at their root.Process – Systematizing key operations.Traction – Ensuring day-to-day execution aligns with long-term goals.Why EOS Works for Small Outdoor BrandsEOS helps create the kind of business where founders can finally take a vacation—because everyone knows what they’re supposed to be doing and is actually doing it. It’s especially powerful for companies with fractional or remote teams.Real Results From smoother product launches to founders finally stepping out of the daily grind, Dawson shares stories of transformation that make a compelling case for EOS—even (or especially) for companies under 50 employees.Links & Show Notes:KORE OutdoorsThe EOS Vision/Traction OrganizerBooks mentioned:TractionWhat The Heck is EOS? Connect with Dawson:Dawson's websiteDawson on LinkedInConnect with Christian:Christian's websiteChristian on LinkedInThe KORE Podcast is a production of the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. Learn more about KORE and the podcast: https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/KORE Outdoors gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.#koreoutdoors #craftgearfromhere