093: Sara Ray Lewis from Outdoor Retailer Rock Creek Outfitters

Sara tells us about her Science background, how she got into the outdoors and how a vegetarian became the best organic grocery meat buyer in Knoxville. Facebook Twitter Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   Support the show   Please give us a rating and review HERE   Show Notes First Exposure to the Outdoors We weren't the wealthiest family so when we went on vacation we'd go for a week to the state park and I loved it. I've got an older brother so we were just partners in crime for a week, riding our bikes, swimming in the lake and going hiking it. It was how our family recreated. My mom super adventurous, I'm thankful for that and I definitely attribute my outdoor love to my parents. I'm super thankful for that. Things we talked about Rock Creek Outfitters Three Rivers Market Blackdome Breast Cancer Support Services Southeastern Climbers Coalition Access Fund StumpJump 50K Trail Race Triple Crown Bouldering Series Advice, tips Yeah, start small. Start start on the sales floor. You've got to have that baseline of knowledge before I think you can really rise up. You learn how to sell the things that you love and learn how sell things you don't really like too. In a small businesses especially, like us, we hire from within. So if we see somebody on our salesforce doing great, they're going to be a manager and they'll eventually get into merchandising or buying. That's the organic process. I think it's cool to see how some universities around the country are now even offering outdoor business degrees, industry related degrees related to recreation. Or even design for outdoor which half the sourcing is based on its ecologic friendliness. It's funny you know, I'm an elbow greaser though whatever you want to do, just get your hands dirty, work hard and it all pays off. Just put in the effort. Other Outdoor Activities Stand Up Paddle Boarding Running Snowboarding Favorite Books Outlander by Diana Gabaldon Guns Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond Best Gear Purchase under $100 Smartwool socks Connect with Sara  [email protected] Welcome to a podcast dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their outdoor careers while embracing the freedom and joy of outdoor adventure. We dive deep into outdoor recreation, adventure travel, and outdoor activities, helping you find the best outdoor jobs that fit your ideal outdoor life. Whether you're seeking career growth or just more time to get outdoors, we've got you covered.