Inside Line | Where the industry finds its edge

How do we build a more inclusive winter sports community? Join the Inside Line Podcast as Hannah Berman, Director of Sustainability and Philanthropy at Aspen One, uncovers the hidden efforts behind Aspen's glamor, focusing on diversity, community access, and climate advocacy. Discover how Aspen is not only inviting families from underrepresented backgrounds to experience skiing and snowboarding, b...

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...

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...

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 ind...

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...

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 t...

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 th...

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 di...

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 look...

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 nee...

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 ind...

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 Indust...

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 win...

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 Relat...

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 spe...

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 gue...

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.