Inside Line | Where the industry finds its edge

What happens when passion meets opportunity in the snow sports industry? In this episode, Kristin Carpenter welcomes SIA's Maria McNulty and China representative Karen Chen to discuss the explosive growth of winter sports in China, fueled by the 2022 Winter Olympics. Together, they explore how innovative training methods and cultural shifts have transformed skiing and snowboarding into a thriving lifestyle for the younger generation. Tune in to discover insights that could reshape the future of winter sports globally. With special guests: Karen Chen, Founder & G.M. of GK Outdoor Ltd. and SIA representative in China and Maria McNulty, COO, Snowsports Industries America Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org, https://www.siainsideline.com, https://www.snowsports.org/events/china-trade-mission/ Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter

What does it take to transform a passion for skiing into a successful career? In this episode of The Inside Line, hosts Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent sit down with Pete LaBore, CEO of Christy Sports, to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the winter sports retail industry. LaBore shares insights on navigating a tumultuous winter season, fostering a culture of customer service, and promoting inclusivity for new skiers. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind Christy Sports' strategy and its impact on the winter community. _______________________________________ Inside Line brings the wide world of winter and outdoors together through conversations about consumer behavior, global business headwinds, climate adaptation, and the technology and innovation that's transforming how we ride, how we sell, and how we survive and thrive. In each episode, we sit down with the leaders shaping the global winter and outdoors industry. You'll get the best new approaches to winter outdoor's most challenging business headwinds and learn how the smartest and best networked minds in the global industry are implementing them. 🔗 Take the next step: • Become an SIA Member: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9l60  • Learn more about SIA: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9wQ0  With special guest: Pete LaBore, CEO, Christy Sports Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org, https://www.siainsideline.com, https://www.christysports.com Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

What if our water scarcity could be addressed by technology that modifies the weather? In this episode, Nick Sargent and Kristin Carpenter interview Augustus Doricko, CEO of Rainmaker Technology Corporation, about groundbreaking cloud seeding techniques that aim to increase snow and rainfall across drought-stricken areas. Explore how this innovative solution could help revolutionize the winter industry and help restore vital ecosystems, including the Great Salt Lake. Tune in to discover the science and future of weather modification! _______________________________________ Inside Line brings the wide world of winter and outdoors together through conversations about consumer behavior, global business headwinds, climate adaptation, and the technology and innovation that's transforming how we ride, how we sell, and how we survive and thrive. In each episode, we sit down with the leaders shaping the global winter and outdoors industry. You'll get the best new approaches to winter outdoor's most challenging business headwinds and learn how the smartest and best networked minds in the global industry are implementing them. 🔗 Take the next step: • Become an SIA Member: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9l60  • Learn more about SIA: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9wQ0  With special guest: Augustus Doricko, Chief Executive Officer, Rainmaker Technology Corporation Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org, https://www.siainsideline.com, https://www.rainmaker.com  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter, CEO, Verde Brand Communications and Nick Sargent, President, Snowsports Industries America

How can the winter sports industry adapt to change while fostering community? Join hosts Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent as they reflect on Nick's recent trip to Bolzano, Italy, where he explored successful European trade shows that blend business, sustainability, and connection. Discover insights on the importance of gathering as an industry to face the challenges ahead. This episode uncovers innovative ideas that could redefine how we approach the future of winter sports, making it more resilient in the face of environmental challenges. _______________________________________ Inside Line brings the wide world of winter and outdoors together through conversations about consumer behavior, global business headwinds, climate adaptation, and the technology and innovation that's transforming how we ride, how we sell, and how we survive and thrive. In each episode, we sit down with the leaders shaping the global winter and outdoors industry. You'll get the best new approaches to winter outdoor's most challenging business headwinds and learn how the smartest and best networked minds in the global industry are implementing them. 🔗 Take the next step: • Become an SIA Member: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9l60  • Learn more about SIA: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9wQ0  With special guest: Nick Sargent, President, Snowsports Industries America Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.fierabolzano.it/de/prowinter https://www.amersports.com/newsroom/atomic-protect-our-winters-and-partners-unite-the-industry-around-climate-action-key-takeaways-from-the-third-ski-industry-climate-summit https://winter-sports.net/About  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter

Are you ready to discover how innovation is reshaping trade shows in the snow sports industry? Join Nick Sargent, President of SIA and Mike Seaman, CEO of Raccoon Media, as they discuss the transformation of winter shows. From exciting announcements around the Snowbound Expo consumer show and the recent joint venture with Messe Munchen on the ISPO B2B show, Mike reveals his plans to reinvigorate trade shows by spotlighting community connections, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability. Don't miss this melting pot of passion and business! _______________________________________ Inside Line brings the wide world of winter and outdoors together through conversations about consumer behavior, global business headwinds, climate adaptation, and the technology and innovation that's transforming how we ride, how we sell, and how we survive and thrive. In each episode, we sit down with the leaders shaping the global winter and outdoors industry. You'll get the best new approaches to winter outdoor's most challenging business headwinds and learn how the smartest and best networked minds in the global industry are implementing them. 🔗 Take the next step: • Become an SIA Member: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9l60  • Learn more about SIA: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9wQ0  With special guest: Mike Seaman, CEO and Founder, Raccoon Media Group   Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.ispo.com https://snowboundexpo.com https://raccoonmediagroup.com Hosted by: Nick Sargent

The future of winter sports is hinged on sustainability and collaboration. In this episode of Inside Line, hosts Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent engage with Helmut Holzer, the visionary director at Atomic Skis. As a leader in innovation and sustainability, Helmut shares insights into how the ski industry can unite to tackle climate change and secure a sustainable future. Discover the role of the Atomic Climate Summit and the ambitious projects aimed at transforming the way we think about winter sports. Inside Line brings the wide world of winter and outdoors together through conversations about consumer behavior, global business headwinds, climate adaptation, and the technology and innovation that's transforming how we ride, how we sell, and how we survive and thrive. In each episode, we sit down with the leaders shaping the global winter and outdoors industry. You'll get the best new approaches to winter outdoor's most challenging business headwinds and learn how the smartest and best networked minds in the global industry are implementing them. Take the next step: • Become an SIA Member: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9l60  • Learn more about SIA: https://hubs.ly/Q03_P9wQ0  With special guest: Helmut Holzer, Dir Anticipation & Advanced Research, Atomic Austria GmbH Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.atomic.com https://press.atomic.com/pressreleases/third-edition-of-the-ski-industry-climate-summit-to-take-place-in-bolzano-italy-3417591  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

How can we reshape the winter sports industry to be more inclusive? In this episode, Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent interview Henri Rivers, president of the National Brotherhood of Snow Sports, exploring his journey from a young skier to a leader advocating for greater diversity in snow sports. They discuss the organization's impact, the evolution of ski culture, and the exciting future for diverse athletes in competitive arenas. Listen to discover how community and passion can transform the winter sports landscape. With special guest: Henri Rivers, President, National Brotherhood of Snowsports Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org, https://www.siainsideline.com, https://www.nbs.org  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

How can brands authentically engage today's youth in a rapidly evolving market? In this captivating episode, Issa Sawabini, founder of Fuse, shares insights from his 30-year journey in action sports marketing. From the importance of experiential events to understanding generational dynamics, Issa reveals strategies to connect with consumers authentically. His expertise is essential for brands looking to thrive in the outdoor sports landscape. Tune in to discover how to navigate the complexities of youth culture and marketing! With special guest: Issa Sawabini, Partner, Fuse   Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org  https://www.siainsideline.com  https://www.fusemarketing.com  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

How can the ski industry adapt to attract new enthusiasts while maintaining tradition? In this episode, Chris Licata, President and CEO of Tecnica Group North America, shares insights from his journey through entrepreneurship and leading the winter industry. Join us as we explore strategic shifts, the importance of specialty retail, and building trust within the community. Chris emphasizes the need for a culture of innovation and genuine connections to inspire and grow the next generation of skiers. Tune in for a unique perspective that blends passion with strategic foresight. With special guest: Chris Licata, President and CEO, Tecnica Group North America Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.tecnicagroup.com Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

What's driving change in the winter sports industry this season? Inside Line sits down with Winter Sports Retailers President Gary Fleming and SIA President Nick Sargent to unpack mergers, evolving trade shows, consumer trends and how retailers are the key to growth. Hear candid insights on forging stronger supplier-retailer ties and why local shops still matter most. Don't miss this essential industry download. With special guest: Gary Fleming, President, Winter Sports Retailers Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org, https://www.siainsideline.com, https://www.wintersportsretailers.com Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent  

What happens when winter sports and surf industry leaders join forces? In this landmark Inside Line episode, SIA's Nick Sargent and SIMA's Vipe Desai dive into consumer trends, trade show evolution, and growing passion for sports through community and connection. It's a must-listen for anyone engaged in the future of these industries. With special guest: Vipe Desai, Executive Director, Surf Industry Members Association Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com  https://surfindustry.org  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

What's fueling the next wave of snowboard innovation? Jen McVey, president of Nidecker Group North America and SIA board member, joins Inside Line from Switzerland after a major global sales meeting. She shares insights on the future of snow sports, industry challenges like tariffs, fast-entry bindings, and the power of female leadership. Don't miss her insider perspective on what's coming for winter 25/26. With special guest: Jen McVey, Nidecker Group NA Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org  https://www.siainsideline.com  https://www.ndk.group  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

Curious how one outdoor retailer evolved into a global lifestyle brand? In this episode, evo founder Bryce Phillips shares how passion, community and bold vision fueled his journey from selling gear online to running travel experiences, hotels and more. Get inspired by his take on retail reinvention and the power of connecting outside. With special guest: Bryce Phillips, Founder and CEO, evo Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.burton.com  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

How does a small-town Vermonter end up shaping global strategies at Burton Snowboards? In this episode of the Inside Line, we sit down with Rachel Grogan, Burton's VP of Enterprise Technology and Business Integration, to explore her career path, lessons in leadership, and how Burton is navigating compliance, sustainability, and tech-driven innovation. Tune in for insights and inspiration. With special guest: Rachel Grogan Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org https://www.siainsideline.com https://www.burton.com  Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

Struggling to decode complex product compliance rules? In this episode of the Inside Line Podcast, SIA's Nick Sargent and Kristin Carpenter sit down with Snaplinc Consulting's CEO Ammi Borenstein to untangle EPR, PFAS, packaging waste and beyond. Learn what's ahead for 2025, how to take action now — and get a sneak peek at a new SIA regulatory tool built to help brands stay ahead. With special guest: Ammi Borenstein, CEO, Snaplinc Consulting Related Links: snowsports.org  snaplincconsulting.com Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter and Nick Sargent

In the debut episode of Inside Line, Snowsports Industries America's Nick Sargent and Verde Brand Communication's Kristen Carpenter launch a new platform for connection, insight and action for the winter outdoor industry. With special guest: Nick Sargent Related Links: https://www.snowsports.org Hosted by: Kristin Carpenter

Inside Line is dedicated to bringing you the challenges and opportunities facing the winter outdoors. We bring a global perspective to business trends, climate impact, consumer behavior and the innovation that's transforming how we survive and thrive.