Opening up the outdoors and closing the nature gap with Anthony Owosekun, CEO of EMPOCA

In this episode of Sports+Outdoor Mentors, I sit down with Anthony Owosekun, Founder & CEO of EMPOCA, to explore an essential leadership challenge and opportunity: closing the nature gap and making the outdoors truly accessible.   Anthony shares his personal journey into outdoor leadership and the realities faced by Black children and young people across Europe regarding access to nature, environmental education, and outdoor spaces. We discuss how systemic barriers are created, why representation matters, and what genuine inclusion looks like beyond well-intentioned words.   This conversation goes beyond programmes and policies. It examines leadership responsibility, authenticity, and the growing disconnect between what organisations say about sustainability and belonging—and how they actually show up. Anthony challenges leaders, brands, and institutions to lead by example, act with integrity, and reconnect people not just to nature, but to each other.   This episode is essential listening for leaders, educators, outdoor brands, and anyone who believes that the future of the outdoors must be inclusive, credible, and human-centred.   🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of the Sports & Outdoor industry.   Follow Anthony Owoseku https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyowosekun Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1 #sportsandoutdoormentors

What does it really take to become a transformative leader in the sporting goods and outdoor industries? Join us for a vibrant, honest, and actionable conversation as we sit down with Xavier Le Guen, the inspiring leader behind Salomon's Winter Sports Equipment business and a 16-year veteran of the global outdoor sports industry. Xavier shares the pivotal moments and bold decisions that defined his journey, from jumping across industries and continents to following a mentor's example and learning through both celebrated wins and tough failures. Discover his secrets to building high-performing teams, recruiting for true potential, and making career moves with courage and purpose. We delve into what he has learned about sustaining company culture amid rapid change, why soft skills matter more than ever, and how to strike a balance between swift action and thoughtful adaptation. You'll find hard-earned wisdom on resilience, sustainability in the face of climate change, global relocation, work-life balance, and building a legacy rooted in human connection. Memorable moments include: Xavier's game-changing advice: "If you're convinced about something, do it until somebody stops you. Most of the time, nobody will stop you." Insights from career transitions spanning pharma, FMCG, and outdoor sports. The real story behind moving from expertise into general management, and the humility it takes to empower a team of experts. Reflections on failures, including owning mistakes and learning to fight for your convictions. How industry collaboration, sustainability, and strong values drive lasting impact. If you're aiming to accelerate your career, lead with authenticity, or love a motivating leadership story from the heart of the sporting world, this episode is for you. Follow Xavier Le Guen https://www.linkedin.com/in/xavier-le-guen-6674391 Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1 #sportsandoutdoormentors

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Armelle Solelhac, a visionary who fearlessly pivoted from law to entrepreneurship, and now, to the competitive world of Venture Capital. In this episode, Armelle takes us on her incredible journey, sharing the raw challenges and exhilarating triumphs that led her to build her own VC fund focused on the French outdoor sports and travel industries. Discover what it takes to spot the next "unicorn" company. Armelle reveals her unconventional investment philosophy, emphasising that success isn't just about a groundbreaking idea, but the obsessive team behind it. Brace yourself for her bold perspective: "Old ways won't build unicorns." She challenges traditional thinking, offering fresh insights into market trends, the untapped potential of the "silver economy," and why innovation is non-negotiable for future growth. Armelle also talks about the ability to exercise your freedom of speech, and that is a true privilege. She explores the leadership skills required to speak your truth, even when it requires courage. Tap into your inner voice so you can express your opinions with confidence and leadership coaching. Whether you're an aspiring founder, an investor, or simply fascinated by disruptive business stories, Armelle's candid advice on resilience, mentorship, and breaking barriers is a masterclass in modern entrepreneurship. Don't miss her powerful message on trusting your instincts and learning from every setback. Follow Armelle Solelhac https://www.linkedin.com/in/armellesolelhac/ Follow Dan Trapp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors: https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1   #sportsandoutdoormentors

  In this episode, NNormal CEO Sito Luis Salas shares his honest perspective on the outdoor industry's challenges and explains why his brand is taking a different path forward. From challenging the dominance of other sports brands to building authentic values in a world of marketing hype, ex-Campers, Sito reveals the uncomfortable truths about brand building that most executives won't admit. Discover why being "normal" is actually radical, how trail running shaped a business philosophy, and the unexpected influence of ultra-running legend Kylian Jornet on building a disruptive outdoor brand. Plus, the strategic moves behind launching a company that refuses to play by industry rules. This isn't your typical founder story; it's a masterclass in disruption from someone who's betting everything on doing things differently. Follow Sito Luis Salas https://www.linkedin.com/in/sito-luis-salas-15255b Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1 #sportsandoutdoormentors

  Get inspired by Laura Ball, Group Marketing Director at Nikwax, as she shares her remarkable journey working with global brands such as Nickelodeon and the Jamie Oliver Group, and her current role as a leader in sustainable outdoor products.   She's a perfect example of what "outside of the industry leaders" can bring to the game!   In this episode, Laura reveals how she has combined high-performance strategies with purpose-driven storytelling to foster authentic brand growth, through leadership, lessons in adaptability and the unique challenges of transitioning between industries.   This episode is perfect for future leaders, marketers, and anyone interested in the ever-evolving outdoor and sports industry!   Please like, comment and subscribe to help us reach more people. 🙏   Follow Laura Ball https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-ball-group-marketing-director-nikwax Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors  https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1 #sportsandoutdoormentors

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Liz Wilson, a pioneering female leader in the sports and outdoor industry.   In this in-depth interview, Liz shares her remarkable journey, spanning 30 years of building world-class products and teams at iconic brands, including Nike and The North Face, and now as the General Manager for Softgoods at the Rossignol Group.   Episode highlights: ✳️ Career ambition and progression ✳️ Leadership Philosophy ✳️ Women's Mentorship ✳️ Industry Challenges ✳️ Advice for Future Leaders   Whether you're interested in leadership, career growth, or the evolving landscape of the sports and outdoor industry, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.   Please leave us a review and follow us to help us reach more people. 🙏   Follow Liz Wilson https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizwilson3739/   Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp   Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin   Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1   #sportsandoutdoormentors

In this episode, Cedric Georges, CEO of North Action Sports Group, recounts his impactful career trajectory, beginning with 12 foundational years at Procter & Gamble, followed by his transition to Odlo. He details how these experiences instilled critical sales, management, and leadership skills, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and embracing challenges. He also reminds us of the importance of incorporating external perspectives and his commitment to giving back through his leadership role at Outdoor Sports Valley (OSV). He discusses his hands-on approach to leadership, emphasising the importance of setting a clear vision, executing effective strategies, and fostering a supportive team environment. According to Cedric, anyone can be a "CEO of their job" by taking ownership and continuously striving for excellence. If you want to find out how he did it, you must listen to this episode! 📺 Follow Cedric Georges https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedric-georges-b2b9115 Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1 #sportsandoutdoormentors

Step into the inspiring journey of Richard Leedham, CEO of Equip Outdoor Technologies, home to iconic brands RAB and Lowe Alpine. From his humble beginnings as a sales rep to becoming a leader in the outdoor industry, Richard shares invaluable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of loving what you do. In this engaging conversation, Richard discusses: ✅ The importance of embracing discomfort for growth ✅ How finding your "tribe" transforms your career ✅ Balancing passion, sustainability, and business success Whether you're looking to navigate your career, lead a team, or find inspiration to fuel your passion, this is a must-watch for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. 🎧 Listen now to learn from one of the industry's most respected leaders! Follow Richard Leedham https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-leedham Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1    #sportsandoutdoormentors

Are you tired of hearing the word "sustainable" thrown around without real meaning?   Matt Creighton, founder of Irish Outdoor Lifestyle brand, Bleubird, is too!   In this new episode of Sports & Outdoor Mentors, Matt gets honest about why Bluebird stopped using the word "sustainable" and what they're doing instead to be truly eco-conscious.   Matt chats about the challenges and triumphs of building an integrity-based brand, sharing valuable lessons on the problem with "Sustainable," and much more.   If you’re an entrepreneur, a brand builder, or someone who cares deeply about the outdoors and responsible business practices, this episode should not be missed!   Get ready for transformative insights and actionable strategies that will challenge your perception of "sustainability" and empower you to create a brand with a meaningful impact.   Follow Matt Creighton https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcreighton/   Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp   Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin   Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1   #sportsandoutdoormentors

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rich, founder of Passenger Clothing, as he shares his remarkable journey from electrician to founding a £100M+ outdoor brand. Discover how passion, humility, and the right team transformed a small startup into a global success story.   Key highlights: The pivotal transition from tradesman to brand founder Building an authentic outdoor brand focused on escapism Managing 80%+ year-on-year growth for 5+ years The importance of controlling ego and embracing team expertise Sustainable practices and responsible business growth Challenges of international expansion Building and maintaining company culture during explosive growth   Rich shares candid insights about: The role of self-awareness in leadership Making tough decisions about bringing in experienced leadership Balancing family life with entrepreneurship Key lessons learned over 13 years of brand building The evolution from UK-focused to global omnichannel business   Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, brand builder, or business leader, this episode offers valuable lessons on scaling a business while staying true to your core values.   Follow Richard Sutcliffe https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-sutcliffe-9702b554/   Follow Passenger https://www.linkedin.com/company/passengerclothing/   Follow Dan Trapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantrapp   Follow Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://bit.ly/SOMentors_Linkedin   Watch Sports + Outdoor Mentors https://www.youtube.com/@S_OM1   #sportsandoutdoormentors