In this episode, Cole talks with Kate West, the director and producer of Huckberry Presents, to discuss the DIRT series. They explore the evolution of episodic content, the importance of understanding the audience, and the unique point of view that Huckberry brings to the outdoor industry. Kate shares insights on building trust and community, the significance of authentic storytelling, and the hard work that goes into creating successful content. In this conversation, Kate discusses the intricate process of content creation for Huckberry, emphasizing the significant behind-the-scenes work that goes into producing episodes. She highlights the importance of connecting content to commerce, the role of funding and partnerships, and the balance between quality and quantity in content production.

Key Topics Covered:

• Discovery is a key element in Huckberry's storytelling approach.

• Funding and sponsor opportunities

• Episodic content allows for community building on platforms like YouTube.

• The success of DIRT is rooted in years of foundational work building trust and a point of view.

• Email marketing is a crucial amplification tool.

• Connecting content to commerce is an ongoing challenge.

• There is a saturation of similar outdoor content.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Storytellers by day, podcasters by night. We started this podcast because it's these types of deep, fundamental questions that keep us up at night. Thanks for tuning in!

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Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?

In this Fireside episode, Cole reflects on the challenges and opportunities within the outdoor industry, particularly focusing on the importance of brand storytelling in a competitive landscape dominated by major streaming platforms. He emphasizes the limited time consumers have to engage with brands and the necessity for compelling content that resonates with audiences. Cole encourages brands to rethink their strategies and invest in storytelling as a long-term approach to stand out in a crowded market.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?

In this episode, Cole chats with Luke Thorkildsen, COO of Weatherby, and discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing. Since 1945 the brand has been defined by its stories. Today the brand produces podcasts and films to engage a younger audience while maintaining its heritage. Luke talks about ROI, how Meta and Google's restrictions on firearm companies create freedom in marketing, and much more.

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity is crucial for brand connection.

• Weatherby has a rich heritage that informs its storytelling.

• Content creation can be done in-house for authenticity.

• YouTube serves as an important platform for brand storytelling.

• Timing is essential for content release to maximize impact.

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If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. If you need help bringing your next video project to life check out our website to learn more. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast? 

In this episode, Cole and Steve Holmberg, a veteran of Nike and a professor of consumer research, dive into the importance of consumer research in product development and marketing, discussing how understanding consumer needs can lead to successful products. Steve shares his journey in the industry, the process of conducting effective research, and the significance of insights versus observations. The conversation also touches on innovation in the outdoor industry and the need for a consumer-first approach in research and product development.

Key Topics Covered:

• Consumer research is essential for understanding consumer needs.

• The product creation process starts and ends with the consumer.

• Effective research can lead to innovative products.

• Insights should guide marketing strategies and product design.

• Observations provide factual data, while insights reveal deeper understanding.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

 This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. Enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast? 

In this Fireside episode, Cole reflects on his conversation with Marc Bock from Gore-Tex. He talks about the importance of storytelling as a marketing tool, emphasizing its role in problem-solving and brand-building, how to justify ROI in storytelling projects and the significance of creating relevant content that aligns with business objectives, media channels, and audience needs.

Key Takeaways

• Justifying ROI in brand storytelling is challenging but essential.

• Efficient planning of production can meet both bottom-of-funnel and top-of-funnel content needs.

• Relevant content requires understanding business, media, and audience needs.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling. If you need help bringing your next video project to life check our our website to learn more. Otherwise, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

Marc's Episode | Tune into Marc's Episode

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?

In this episode, Cole sits down with Marc Bock, the global content leader at Gore-Tex, to discuss the intricacies of content marketing and storytelling. Marc shares insights into how Gore-Tex approaches storytelling as a tactic to support its marketing objectives, particularly in engaging younger consumers. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the target audience, building relevant content, developing stories based on business objectives, and justifying ROI in storytelling projects.

Key Takeaways

• Storytelling is a tactic to support marketing objectives.

• Understanding the target audience is crucial for effective marketing.

• Building relevant content requires balancing corporate, audience, and media needs.

• ROI for storytelling projects is justified through the content produced for various marketing functions.

• Gore-Tex's unique position as an ingredient brand allows for timeless storytelling.

 Check out the show notes for more insights and the interview transcript

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling and after 150+ podcast episodes with marketing pros and 9 years of producing commercials and documentaries outside, we've noticed a few things about what it takes to create video work that makes an impact. If you need help bringing your next video project to life, check out our website to learn more. If not, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast? 

In this episode, Cole Heilborn takes a deep dive into an approach he calls Problem-First Creative—the philosophy of prioritizing purpose over aesthetics in video production. In an industry bursting with creative options, it’s easy for filmmakers and brands alike to focus on elements like lighting, talent, and locations. But Cole argues that a more impactful approach involves beginning with a clear understanding of the why behind each project. Rather than simply creating eye-catching visuals, he explains why production should first and foremost solve real business problems.

Cole discusses the downside of the content-saturated market, where shouting louder doesn’t necessarily lead to being heard. Instead, he encourages brands to create content that stands apart from the noise by aligning creative work with the unique challenges a brand faces—whether that’s building awareness, educating an audience, or telling an athlete’s story. He shares insights on Port Side’s approach, where projects are structured around brand identity, a deep understanding of the target audience, and a commitment to problem-solving.

This episode is essential listening for anyone in video production or brand marketing who wants to break free from the routine of just following trends and start crafting content that resonates, connects, and drives real results.

Key Takeaways

• How to adopt a Problem-First Creative mindset to create more impactful content
• Why purpose is more critical than aesthetics in video production
• The dangers of pitching stories without a clear understanding of a brand’s needs
• Ways to stand out in an oversaturated media landscape
• The importance of aligning video work with brand identity and audience needs

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling and after 150+ podcast episodes with marketing pros and 9 years of producing commercials and documentaries outside, we've noticed a few things about what it takes to create video work that makes an impact. If you need help bringing your next video project to life, check out our website to learn more. If not, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?

In this episode, Cole and Will Truettner discuss the concept of Minimal Viable Creative (MVC) and how it can be applied to creative projects. He emphasizes the importance of constraints in fostering unique ideas and the need to balance creative integrity with business goals. Through a case study that aired during the Tour De Femmes, he illustrates how understanding the audience and focusing on concept over execution can lead to impactful creative work. The discussion also touches on the creative process, the significance of audience understanding, and the challenges faced in production.

Key Topics Covered:

• The MVC concept applies to creative projects just like it does to product development.

• Constraints can lead to more unique and innovative ideas.

• Focusing on concept over execution is crucial, especially with limited resources.

• Understanding your audience is key to creating effective content.

• Creative integrity should align with business goals for maximum impact.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling and after 150+ podcast episodes with marketing pros and 9 years of producing commercials and documentaries outside, we've noticed a few things about what it takes to create video work that makes an impact. If you need help bringing your next video project to life, check out our website to learn more. If not, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast? 

In this episode, Cole sits down with Kristin Gavin, Director of Production at Cotopaxi, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the outdoor media landscape. Kristin shares insights on the congested nature of outdoor marketing, the importance of brand identity, and the need for innovative storytelling that resonates with consumers. The conversation highlights the significance of building connections and the future of outdoor media as brands strive to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Key Takeaways

• The outdoor media landscape is congested and competitive.

• Brands need to focus on building genuine connections with consumers.

• The future of marketing will involve more personalized and interactive content.

• Brands should not just mimic the successful strategies of others.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling and after 150+ podcast episodes with marketing pros and 9 years of producing commercials and documentaries outside, we've noticed a few things about what it takes to create video work that makes an impact. If you need help bringing your next video project to life, check out our website to learn more. If not, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast? 

In this episode of the Backcountry Marketing Podcast, Cole and Kevin Knutson discuss the evolving landscape of content marketing in the outdoor industry. They explore the tension between emotional storytelling and the demands of social media algorithms, the risk aversion of brands, and the importance of creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences. Kevin shares his journey as a creative in the outdoor space and emphasizes the need for brands to take risks and embrace their values in their marketing efforts. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the industry as it navigates a complex media landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

• Content marketing is increasingly driven by data and algorithms.

• Brands are becoming risk averse, leading to a homogenization of content.

• Emotional storytelling is often sidelined for trends that drive engagement.

• The outdoor industry needs to embrace its values and take creative risks.

• Successful content requires a strategic approach to distribution and marketing.

• Meaningful content can lead to long-term brand loyalty, even without immediate ROI.

If you like what you’re hearing, feel free to leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people like you find the show. Let’s help everyone learn together.

This podcast is produced by Port Side Productions. We’re a video production outfit that believes great marketing is great storytelling and after 150+ podcast episodes with marketing pros and 9 years of producing commercials and documentaries outside, we've noticed a few things about what it takes to create video work that makes an impact. If you need help bringing your next video project to life, check out our website to learn more. If not, enjoy this episode and discover other resources below:

‍

Booklist | Here's our curated list of recommended books over the years.

LinkedIn | Join the conversation and share ideas with other industry peers.

Apple Podcast | Want to help us out? Leave us a review on Apple.

Guest List | Have a Guest in Mind?  Share them with us here.

Find Out Why | Curious why a video production company would produce a marketing podcast?