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The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports Commentary — Wilderness
The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports Commentary

Tired of the same old outdoor industry narratives? If your post-adventure chats are filled with laughter over mishaps, commiseration about broken gear, and celebrating real triumphs (and epic fails), then The Rock Fight is your new tribe.

Imagine this: you’re no longer stuck in echo chambers. After listening in, you’ll be part of honest, unfiltered discussions that mirror the conversations you have with your closest outdoor buddies. You’ll gain fresh perspectives and feel more connected to a community that speaks your language.

On The Rock Fight we get into the topics others shy away from – the real, sometimes messy, and always engaging aspects of the outdoor industry and culture. Ever debated the best layering system for an imaginary ice planet adventure? We’re there. Concerned about the true environmental impact of outdoor brands beyond the marketing spin? We’re digging in.

We’re not afraid to challenge the conventional and offer the candid insights you crave.
We’re those voices around the campfire, on the chairlift, and at the pub who aren’t holding back. Our diverse discussions are fueled by a genuine love for the outdoors and a healthy dose of skepticism towards the status quo. Our goal is to create meaningful conversations and a stronger sense of community for outdoor lovers who are ready for something real.

So grab your rock, hit play, and get ready to step up and participate in The Rock Fight.

Copyright: © Copyright 2025 Rock Fight, LLC

Latest Episodes:

The DTC Brands Shaping The Future Of The Outdoor Industry Dec 23, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin opens the show with his reaction to Gear Patrol's mention of THE ROCK FIGHT in their recent best products of 2024 list.

Colin and Producer Dave use this mention to pump the tires of an outdoor media scene who has way more clout than many realize when it comes to how they cover the brands that drive the conversation in the outdoor industry.

Then Eoin Comerford joins the show to showcase his recent deep dive into the evolving landscape of outdoor direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands based on his recent LinkedIn post.

Lastly it's time for The Parting Shot where Eoin highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the industry, emphasizing that these values should be seen as business imperatives rather than mere societal goals while Colin wants to reject your very thoughtful hand written thank you note.

Follow Eoin Comerford on LinkedIn.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to pick a fight with THE ROCK FIGHT? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

A Modern Outdoor Origin Story Plus: Revisiting The First Rock Fight! Dec 20, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin is joined by the founder of LIVSN, Andrew Gibbs-Dabney, who shares his compelling journey from personal struggle to building an outdoor brand focused on sustainability and quality.

Andrew discusses the challenges of launching a new brand in a saturated outdoor market and highlights the need for innovation that aligns with environmental responsibility. The conversation also explores how LIVSN's approach to product development merges sustainability with functionality, ensuring that their offerings resonate with a younger, more environmentally conscious customer base.

Lastly today is the two year anniversary of the first episode of THE ROCK FIGHT! So Colin ends the show by reading TRF's first episode, Ski Resorts Are Not Outdoor, as today's Parting Shot.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to pick a fight with THE ROCK FIGHT? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Saved From Quicksand! Alaska Takes Up Arms Against Wildlife & The Davis, WV Mailbag Dec 18, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin and Justin run through some stories to come out of the outdoor community from the past week.

First up they respond to emails received about last weeks episode which featured a story about how outdoor media and enthusiasts can possibly ruin unknown mountain towns.

Then they talk about a hiker was rescued from quicksand and implore outdoor media sites to give us all a little more reporting about something crazy that happens in the backcountry before clicking that upload button.

Next they enter the House of Housman to explore the controversial topic of wildlife management in Alaska, where plans to cull bears and wolves have raised ethical questions.

The episode of course ends with The Parting Shot! This week Justin admonishes some over eager mountain bikers while Colin gives the definitive ranking of Rankin/Bass Christmas specials.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to pick a fight with THE ROCK FIGHT? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

What Is The Outdoor Industry Afraid Of? Plus: The TNF/Skims Controversy & The State of Big Box Outdoor Retail Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin opens the show by talking about how the outdoor industry steadily operates from a position of fear.

Then Eoin Comerford joins Colin to analyze the dynamics of big box retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy, looking at their struggles and strategies in a competitive landscape, and what specialty retail can learn from these big chains.

The conversation then focuses on the recent collaboration between The North Face & Skims, where concerns about sustainability and brand integrity are highlighted before taking a look at the recent Under Armour investor day.

Colin wraps up the show with The Parting Shot where he offers a warning to those aspiring to become the next big water bottle after news broke last week about a recall impacting Stanley water bottles.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to pick a fight with THE ROCK FIGHT? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

From Reviews to Rescue: How Blister+ is Changing Outdoor Safety Dec 13, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin is joined by the founder and editor in chief of Blister, Jonathan Ellsworth, to talk about making the backcountry a safer and more affordable place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Outdoor enthusiasts face significant risks when engaging in their favorite activities, and having the right insurance coverage can be a game changer; which is exactly what Blister+ is looking to be.

Blister+, the gear review site's membership program, includes an innovative outdoor injury insurance policy designed to protect adventurers from the financial burden of accidents.

The conversation delves into Ellsworth's personal experiences with serious injuries and the hefty medical bills that often accompany them, highlighting the importance of accessible coverage for high-risk sports. As the outdoor recreation community continues to grow, the need for affordable and effective insurance solutions becomes increasingly critical.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Can Outdoor Media Ruin A Town? Plus: Hunting Grizzlies & When Does Brand Matter? Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin & Justin hit on a few of the more interesting and notable stories to come out of the outdoor community over the past week.

The show kicks off by delving into a discussion about the complexities of brand loyalty in outdoor gear, based on the news that Rocky Mounts has been acquired by Clarus. The guys contemplate when brand identity truly matters versus when functionality takes precedence.

Then they touch on the impact outdoor media can have when it comes to changing who lives or visits unknown mountain towns based on a recent article on Outside Online and the social media comments that article inspired.

The episode then takes a trip to HOUSMAN'S HOUSE to get a deeper look at Justin's recent article on National Parks Traveler about the controversial topic of hunting grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, highlighting the ongoing debates around wildlife management and conservation efforts.

And because every rock fight ends with a parting shot, Colin & Justin wrap up the show with... The Parting Shot! Justin has some words for a recent medical experience while Colin thinks anyone who only does one outdoor activity should examine their priorities.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

The ISPO Recap! Plus: The TNF/Kardashian Collab & C-Suite Moves At Cotopaxi and Merrell Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford joins Colin and Producer Dave to recap his time at the ISPO trade show in Munich!

Eoin discusses the notable decline in participation and booth sizes at the show and how the changes seen at ISPO can tell us what to expect at future shows in the US. He also talks about his time touring Munich's legendary outdoor retail scene.

Then the trio react to a flurry of industry news to drop over the last week including Merrell's new brand direction and CPO, Cotopaxi's new CEO, and The North Face's latest collaboration, this time with Kim Kardashian's Skims.

Eoin sticks around for The Parting Shot where he takes aim at the poor form some users exhibit in their choice of LinkedIn profile pictures. Producer Dave takes a look at Thermos who is trying to reclaim its title as champion of insulated bottles. And Colin wraps things up by reflecting on the unfortunate closure of the Diamond Brand Gear Company at the hands of Hurricane Helene.

Start your Monday off right by joining in THE ROCK FIGHT!

Follow Eoin on LinkedIn.

Click here for all of Eoin's ISPO posts.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Is This Brand The Future Of Nutrition For The Outdoor Industry? Dec 06, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin sits down with the founders of Fuel Goods, a new nutrition fulfillment brand looking to change up an entire category.

Fuel Goods is reshaping the nutrition landscape within the outdoor industry by offering a subscription service that emphasizes the importance of proper fueling for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts as well as every day folks.

Founders Laura Jorgensen and Courteney Lowe, both former professional cyclists, share their journey and insights on how nutrition is often overlooked in favor of more glamorous gear, despite its critical role in performance and recovery. With a focus on making nutrition more accessible and appealing, Fuel Goods aims to transform how people approach their dietary needs in an active lifestyle both going direct to consumer and, eventually, at wholesale.

Lastly since Fuel Goods is based in Asheville, NC Laura, Courteney, and Colin talk about the lasting impact of Hurricane Helene and how everyone can still contribute to the still recovering mountain town.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

California's Propane Ban, BC Camper Found After 50 Days! Plus: Why Hiking Is Awesome Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin and Justin break down some of the more notable stories to come out of the outdoor industry and community.

They start with the implications of new legislation in California that will ban single-use propane canisters in 2028. They also talk about a man who got lost while camping in BC and was recently found after 50 days. And lastly they talk about why hiking is great based off of the role hiking played in the discovery of a 280 million year old fossil.

They of course wrap things up with The Parting Shot where Colin takes aim at his former employer and Justin airs his frustration with hangtags.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Too Many Brands? Exploring Oversaturation In The Outdoor Industry. Plus: Here Come The Tariffs & The 'Contract To Grow' Strategy Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin starts the show by taking a look at the sheer number of outdoor apparel brands that are all making pretty much the same products and have the same brand messaging.

He and Producer Dave talk about how this situation has created an upside for differentiation and success for the brand who is bold enough to try something different.

Eoin Comerford then joins Colin and PD for his weekly look Inside the Outdoor Industry. This week Eoin discusses several notable outdoor brands who are deploying a 'contract to grow' strategy to stabilize their business and create an opportunity for future growth. Eoin also offers his take on the impact that the proposed tariffs by the incoming Trump administration could have on the Outdoor Industry.

Colin & Producer Dave then wrap up the episode with their Parting Shots. PD takes a look at the new brand direction by automobile maker Jaguar while Colin defends retailers by throwing a rock at the in-store Christmas music experience.

Hurricane Helene Relief Links:

Head to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!

Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.

Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.

Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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