Sports + Outdoor Mentors

Building a Sustainable Brand: SAOLA Shoes CEO Guillaume Linossier on Funding, Challenges & Growth

In this episode, we sit down with Guillaume Linossier, Founder and CEO of SAOLA Shoes, a brand dedicated to sustainability and eco-friendly footwear.
Guillaume’s journey is rooted in a commitment to the environment and shaped by over 15 years of experience with the Lafuma Group, where he honed his skills in the outdoor industry.
Guillaume shares the challenges and rewards of building a purpose-driven brand, from navigating the U.S. vs. European markets to tackling the complexities of securing funding and creating a sustainable business model in the competitive footwear space.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and sustainability advocates.
Discover Guillaume’s invaluable lessons on resilience, growth, and creating a brand that stands for something bigger.
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David Birch: from a hospital bed to building the world's largest rewards and loyalty platform

In this episode, we sit down with David Birch, CEO and Founder of Endurance Zone, a company centered on helping athletes harness the power of endurance training to unlock peak performance. David's journey is one of resilience and transformation—from a professional rugby player to a successful entrepreneur after a serious back injury altered his career path. 
David shares insights on navigating the challenges of building and scaling a business in the sports industry, including finding the right co-founder, securing external funding, and creating a sustainable business model in the competitive sports market. 
Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry insiders interested in the intersection of sports, endurance, and innovation. Take advantage of David's invaluable lessons on resilience, team-building, and the drive to overcome obstacles.
 
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Unlocking the Future of Sports: Trends, Challenges, and Insights with Tobias Grober of ISPO

In this episode of the Sports and Outdoor Mentors podcast, we sit down with Tobias Grober, the Executive Director of Messe München and the long-time leader of ISPO, the world's largest Sporting Goods trade fair. 
With over 30 years of experience, Tobias shares his insights on the unique benefits of working in sectors beyond sporting goods, the challenges and opportunities currently shaping the industry, and the pivotal role ISPO plays now and in the future.
Join us for a deep dive into the evolving sports and outdoor recreation landscape!
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights on leadership, personal growth, and the inner workings of the sports industry, perfect for anyone keen to explore what fuels this dynamic field.
 
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Leading with Purpose: Charlotte Cox on Coaching and Building Diverse Teams at Pentland Brands

In this episode, we sit down with Charlotte Cox, EMEA President of Pentland Brands, the company behind iconic sports and outdoor brands like Speedo, Berghaus, Endura, and many more. 
With incredible experience in leadership and brand management, Charlotte shares her thoughts on the critical role coaches play in shaping careers and the importance of staying true to yourself in the workplace.
Charlotte explores how diversity can elevate teams and why creating an inclusive environment is critical to long-term success. She also offers valuable advice for those looking to build careers in the sports and outdoor industries, highlighting the lessons she's learned along the way.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with insights on leadership, personal growth, and the power of diversity for anyone interested in the sports industry's behind the scenes.
Follow Charlotte Coxhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-cox-77836919
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Running to Success: Mike’s Journey in Event Management and the Power of Community at Raccoon Media Group

In this episode, we chat with Mike Seaman, Founder and CEO of Raccoon Media Group. Mike has 20 years of experience in event management and shares his journey from portfolio management to founding and growing his own business. 
As someone who thrives on the community’s energy, Mike ensures the community is at the centre of everything Raccoon Media Group does when promoting healthy, active lifestyles. 
Raccoons award-winning events, like the National Running Show, perfectly align with Mike’s passion for running and creating spaces that unite people.
Mike discusses the relentless pressure of planning events, from launching his show to handling the challenges of large-scale production. 
Despite the rollercoaster of highs and lows, he’s learned the value of adaptability, perseverance, and community—the same qualities that define his career and running journey.
Join us to explore how Mike combines his love for running with his career in events and how Raccoon Media Group continues to lead the way in community-driven, inclusive, and sustainable events. 
Whether you're a runner in the events industry or just looking for career inspiration, this episode is packed with insights to motivate and guide you!

Riding the Waves of Change: ACM Co-Founder Matt Barr's Journey from Snowboarding to Business Leadership

Join us in this episode of Sports and Outdoor Mentors as we sit down with Matt Barr, co-founder and co-owner of All Conditions Media, to explore his unique path from travelling the globe as a snowboarder to leading a successful action sports media agency. 
Matt talks candidly about the early days of writing for snowboard magazines, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and adapting to a rapidly changing industry. 
Whether you're into action sports or business innovation, Matt’s story is packed with valuable insights. Tune in, and don’t forget to subscribe and share!
Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.
Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.
Follow Matt
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00:00 - Introduction 
03:00 - Matt discusses his early passion for skateboarding, snowboarding, and journalism.
05:00 - Serendipitous start in the industry and the influence of friends and mentors.
07:00 - Transitioning from freelance writing to co-founding ACM with Chris Moran.
10:00 - Importance of having a strong peer group and mentors.
12:00 - Evolution of his career from freelance work to business ownership.
14:00 - Learning on the job and the entrepreneurial spirit behind ACM.
17:00 - Challenges in the action sports industry.
19:00 - Impact of the 2008 financial crisis 
22:00 - ACM's transition to remote work in 2020 and its impact on company culture.
24:00 - The decision to become an employee-owned business.
27:00 - The importance of empowering employees and fostering a strong internal culture.
30:00 - Reflection on lessons learned,
32:00 - Matt’s advice for future leaders in the industry

Building Success through Trust, Fun, and Hard Work by Oxbow co-owners E. Debrueres and J.C. Chetail

In this heartening episode of “Sports & Outdoor Mentors,” we explore the relentless pursuit of dreams with Manu and JC, the dynamic duo behind the iconic surf brand Oxbow. 
With over five decades of collective experience in the sports and outdoor industry, they share their journey through the highs and lows of leadership, from overcoming monumental challenges to acquiring Oxbow. 
Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of people, and the impact of upholding your values and vision. 
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode offers invaluable insights into turning adversity into opportunity, underscoring the crucial role of conviction and community in achieving success. 
If you enjoy this episode, remember to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to support the channel!
Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.
Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.
Follow Manu
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https://www.youtube.com/@OXBOW1985
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00:00 - Introduction
03:15 - Early interest in sports and start in the industry.
07:30 - Insights into career paths, key roles, and pivotal moments.
12:50 - Partnership dynamics, complementary skills, and shared values.
18:40 - Challenges and learnings from the Oxbow acquisition
25:05 - Importance of trust and respect in partnership and overcoming business hurdles.
30:15 - Management philosophy focusing on the crucial role of people
35:40 - Balancing work and personal life
41:30 - Lessons from past career experiences and the value of continuous learning
47:20 - Reflections on the initial year after acquiring Oxbow, handling surprises, and the pandemic’s impact.
53:00 - Leadership advice for the industry’s future leaders on confidence and collaboration.
58:00 - Closing
 

Olympic Mindset: Tom Bosworth, Olympian/Agent on Overcoming Challenges and Building a Lasting Legacy

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tom Bosworth MBE, double Olympian, world record holder, and now a dedicated track and field agent.
In this episode of Sports and Outdoor Mentors, Tom opens up about the highs and lows of his 13+ years as a professional athlete, sharing invaluable lessons on resilience, sacrifice, and the importance of a balanced life.
Discover how Tom has transitioned from breaking records to helping the next generation of athletes, and learn why sometimes taking a step back can be the key to long-term success.
Don't miss Tom's candid insights on mental health, finding purpose beyond sports, and his exciting new ventures in the world of athletics management.
If you enjoy this episode, remember to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to support the channel!
#olympics #TomBosworth #AthleteMindset #SportsMentorship #MentalHealthMatters
Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.
Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.
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0:00 - Introduction
1:15 - Tom Bosworth: Early Influences and Joining the Athletic World
4:20 - Transitioning to Professional Training and Early Challenges
8:35 - The Road to Becoming a Sports Manager
12:50 - The Reality of Life as an Olympic Athlete
17:10 - Building a Support System: Coaches, Mentors, and Family
20:45 - The Pressure of Competing at the Highest Level
25:30 - Dealing with Anxiety and Mental Health Struggles
31:15 - The Four Foundations for Mental Well-being
36:05 - Reflecting on the 2019 World Championships in Doha
40:30 - Preparing for the Tokyo Olympics Amid Challenges
44:50 - The Importance of Process Over Outcome
50:10 - Advice for Aspiring Athletes: Enjoyment and Consistency
53:25 - Sacrifice and Balance in Pursuing Olympic Dreams
58:45 - Planning for Life After Athletics
1:02:35 - Tom’s New Ventures: Sports Management and Promoting Walking for Well-being
1:08:20 - Final Thoughts: The Key to Success is Happiness

The "Infectious" Outdoor Retail Industry | Insights from JD Outdoor Group CEO, Lee Bagnall.

Dive into the captivating world of outdoor retail with our exclusive interview featuring JD Outdoor Group CEO, Lee Bagnall, an industry veteran.
Discover what makes this field so infectious and rewarding, both from an industry and a retail perspective. Lee shares personal anecdotes about his journey into the outdoor industry, the joys of interacting with enthusiastic customers, and the unique challenges he faces.
Learn about the importance of balancing a passion for the outdoors with the demands of running a business and the critical role of a strong leadership team in navigating tough times.
Hear fascinating stories about working with influential figures in the industry, and gain insights into the strategies that drive success in outdoor retail.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a retail professional, or someone considering a career in this vibrant sector, this video offers valuable perspectives on the past, present, and future of the outdoor retail industry.
Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.
Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.
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00:00 Intro
01:22 Key moments
02:23 Infectious Outdoors
04:31 CCC
05:30 Retail action
07:05 Background
10:09 Private and Public Companies
11:34 Development through changes
14:49 Bring the expertise
17:06 People development & leadership
20:51 Key Takeaway
23:06 Broader range of consumers
24:10 Balance
27:24 Key influences
30:26 Coaching and Mentoring
32:48 Competitiveness
36:56 Setting the vision
40:05 Best & Worst
43:05 Sustainability
45:04 Learning from mistakes
46:33 Three pieces of advice
49:41 Last message to the team

A lifetime of leadership: J-M Pambet, Former Salomon President & CEO / Board Member and Advisor

Join us for a compelling conversation with an accomplished leader in the outdoor industry. Uncover the influence of North African roots, the decision to attend HEC Business School, and the transformative periods at Salomon. Hear about the challenges and successes of the first five years at Salomon and the pivotal transition from sales to product management.
Learn the critical elements of building trust, balancing expertise with management style, and maintaining work-life harmony. Gain insights into adding consistent value, managing pressure, and the benefits of multi-sports engagement. Explore contributions to the European Outdoor Group & Outdoor Sport Valley and the importance of mentoring university interns.
Discover today's biggest industry challenges, receive invaluable advice. Finally, take away three key pieces of advice for future leaders and a profound last day message that encapsulates a career of dedication and passion.
Sports + Outdoor Mentors is a source of inspiration, motivation, practical career, and business lessons for future and existing sports and outdoor industry leaders.
Join us every other Sunday for a new episode.
Follow Jean-Marc https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-marc-pambet-b378a339/ Follow Dan https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp/
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Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors
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00:00 Key moments
01:06 North African roots
02:25 HEC choice (Business school)
04:20 Different periods at Salomon
07:48 First 5 years at Salomon
11:14 Six years concept
14:59 Building trust
16:55 Sales to Product transition
19:44 Combo between expertise and management style
24:20 Balance
27:40 Adding value
31:42 Pressure management
34:18 Multi-sports amateur
36:29 European Outdoor Group & Outdoor Sport Valley
42:45 University interns
44:46 Best piece of advice
46:51 Today’s big challenges
50:36 Support & Help
56:11 Book recommendation
57:36 Three pieces of advice to future leaders
1:02:23 Last day message