November 29, 2023

Aaron McConnell - Building a Career Around Your Passion

32 minutes

In this episode of the "Sweet on Leadership" podcast, host Tim Sweet engages in a captivating conversation with Aaron McConnell, president of TransRockies Race Series. They explore Aaron's journey from a childhood fascination with mountain biking to becoming a trailblazer in organizing multi-day running and biking events. The discussion delves into the challenges, triumphs, and the essence of creating a career around one's passion.

Aaron McConnell shares insights into his early experiences with mountain biking, from discovering the sport as a child to organizing races and publishing newsletters. The conversation touches on pivotal moments, such as winning the bid to host a mountain bike World Cup, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the strategic thinking behind sustaining TransRockies Race Series for over two decades. Aaron emphasizes the dual nature of the event-organizing industry, balancing the glamour of on-site experiences with the behind-the-scenes grind of logistics, budgeting, and team management.

About Aaron McConnell

Aaron McConnell, the president of TransRockies Race Series, has built a remarkable career around his passion for mountain biking and event organization. Starting with a childhood interest, Aaron evolved into a key figure in the industry, organizing races, publishing newsletters, and contributing significantly to the endurance sports community. With over two decades of experience, Aaron's leadership has not only shaped TransRockies but also inspired enthusiasts to pursue their love for outdoor adventure.

Resources discussed in this episode: