Ep 1070: Zeb Smith _ Outdoor Business Success

Adventure Business: Zeb Smith on Helping Outfitters and Guides Thrive – Overcoming Post-COVID Challenges, Rising Costs, Permits, Seasonality, Talent Retention, and Turning Outdoor Passion into Sustainable Success as a Consultant. In this episode of the Adventure Sports Podcast, Curt Linville speaks with Zeb Smith, a consultant specializing in helping adventure outfitters and guides succeed in the outdoor industry. They discuss the challenges faced by small businesses in this sector, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, including rising costs. Zeb shares his journey from CPA to consultant, the significance of permits, the seasonality of revenue, and strategies for retaining talent in a transient workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for aspiring outfitters to gather information and seek support to turn their passion into a sustainable business. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Adventure Sports Business03:02 Zeb Smith's Journey and Consulting Approach06:02 The Importance of Business in Adventure Sports08:58 Transitioning from Hobby to Business12:08 Advice for Aspiring Outfitters15:04 Navigating Permits and Regulations18:00 Seasonality Challenges in Adventure Sports21:04 Retaining Talent in a Seasonal Industry24:03 Leadership and Employee Engagement26:06 Impact of the Pandemic on the Outdoor Industry30:51 Setting Goals and Vision for Business33:54 Career Paths in Outdoor Leadership36:36 Passion vs. Profit in Outdoor Business38:25 Navigating Economic Challenges45:48 Empowering Employees for Sustainable GrowthOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons: https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code ASP for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy