Podcast 111 | Business Lessons for Outdoor Industry Startups

I love thinking about the analogies between “doing an expedition” and “running a business”. The one that Lloyd brought up in this episode, “simplify to amplify” is really profound when you think about the impact this philosophy has across multiple areas of your life. When we’re spread too thin, it seems like mediocrity is the only inevitable outcome.

I really enjoyed this one. I had to chuckle a bit at the similarities between an expedition and a business, mainly because I consider myself quite competent on executing big trips, yet admittedly struggle with many aspects of running a business…lol

Work to satisfy the top 1% of enthusiasts (the super committed, not the super rich).  They’ll influence the top 10%, who’ll influence the rest, all the way down to the casual hobbyist and average joe.

In my business, I came from the the serious hobbyist community and all my products and how I conduct business are viewed through that lens.  I don’t spend on advertising, there is always a clever way of getting out there.  For example instead of freebies for review, I offer reviewers a discount and early access (the offer stands regardless of what they say and I make the same as selling tona retailer).  I sell everything I make and my facilities are running at max capacity.

When satisfying enthusiasts, you need to consider your reputation with every move you make.