Wards Way Podcast

Boat buying is supposed to feel exciting, not exhausting. From the floor of the Newport International Boat Show, we sit down with Chris Connolly, CEO and co-founder of Marine Source, to unpack what happens when the marine industry finally gets a modern AI native marketplace built around how people actually search, browse, and decide. Think less checkbox filtering and more “type what you mean,” whether that’s “Viking in Florida under $1M” or a stream-of-consciousness description of the perfect family boat.

We talk about the bigger shift behind the product: moving away from closed ecosystems and vendor lock-in toward an open ecosystem where listings, leads, and tools can travel. Chris explains why data federation matters for brokers, dealers, and manufacturers, and how pushing inventory to the places buyers already live (social media, shows, partner sites) changes lead generation and conversion. We also get into how boat shows can level up with smarter pre-planning, live map navigation, and better exhibitor ROI using real search data instead of guesswork.

Then we go even wider: SEO is changing into GEO (generative engine optimization), “zero-click” results are exploding, and the old rules of website traffic are getting rewritten by AI search. If UI becomes less visible and outcomes matter more than dashboards, marine businesses need to understand where discovery is going, not where it used to be. We wrap with what Marine Source is building next, including brand pages for builders, lifecycle support beyond the sale, and why the in-person experience still matters for big purchases.

Subscribe, share this with someone in the marine industry, and leave a review so more builders, brokers, dealers, and boat buyers can find the conversation.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Sailing has an image problem, and it’s not just about money. When we sat down with Chris Hammond, CEO of Henry Lloyd, at the Newport International Boat Show, we kept circling back to one uncomfortable idea: for a lot of people, the ocean still feels like a private members’ club. Chris shares what that felt like growing up on the south coast of England, why “how to start sailing” is the most common question online, and what the sport can do to feel more open without losing what makes it special.

We also get into what Henry Lloyd stands for when you strip away the logo and look at the history. From early round-the-world sailing to product breakthroughs like tape sealed seams, the brand’s credibility comes from ocean racing and harsh-weather reality. Chris tells the Ocean Pro story, including three years of development, 18,000 nautical miles of testing, and the moment the flagship jacket was literally stolen the night it launched, a pretty good signal that people were paying attention.

Then we go practical: Henry Lloyd’s “Sail Free” program is built to remove friction for beginners by covering an introduction to yachting course when you buy a jacket and discounting follow-on training. We also talk sailing gear innovation, four-way stretch, PFAS-free DWR, durability, and why sustainability has to be part of performance if you actually love the water.

If you care about sailing culture, offshore sailing, or finding the right waterproof sailing jacket, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share this with a sailing friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

What happens when you combine big boats, big fish, friendly competition, and a community that lives for the water? You get the 2026 Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament! On this episode of The Wards Way Podcast, we’re right in the middle of it.

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Lisa Howell and Captain Marty at Pirates Cove to talk about the first day of fishing, the strategy behind the tournament, the incredible competition, and what makes this event such a special part of the Outer Banks community. Whether you're a serious offshore fisherman, a boating enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the marine industry, this episode gives you an inside look at what makes the Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament more than just a fishing tournament.

 It's competition. It's tradition. It's community. It's life on the water.

#wardsway #piratescove #podcast #sportsfish

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Seawater is everywhere, but fresh water determines how far a boat can truly go. Filmed at the 2026 Dare County Boat Builders Tournament, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with John Gabriel, Sales Director at FCI Watermakers, to explore how reverse osmosis systems transform seawater into clean, usable fresh water and give boaters greater independence from bottled water and dockside supplies. John explains how today’s systems support drinking, cooking, cleaning, spot-free washdowns, and everything from small recreational boats to large-scale marine operations, while offering varying levels of automation to meet each vessel’s needs. Host Kristina Hebert and John also discuss American boatbuilding, the Carolinas’ multigenerational craftsmanship, and how smarter system integration is expanding cruising range while reducing plastic waste.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Captain Kirk during the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026 to explore what competitive offshore sportfishing really looks like beyond the weigh-in. From early mornings and meticulous preparation to the strategy, teamwork, and split-second decisions that define tournament fishing, Captain Kirk shares what it takes to compete at the highest level. Together, they discuss the Outer Banks' unique advantage, the economic impact of sportfishing tournaments, and the technology that helps today's teams perform offshore. The conversation offers an inside look at the dedication, resilience, and passion that continue to drive America's sportfishing community.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

In the heart of North Carolina's legendary boatbuilding community, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Alex Sarris of Quick USA during the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026 to discuss the people, traditions, and technology shaping the future of American boatbuilding. Together, they explore the craftsmanship, family legacy, and working waterfronts that continue to define one of America's premier custom sportfishing boatbuilding regions. Alex also shares how Quick USA supports builders and refit yards with innovative marine lighting, windlasses, thrusters, stabilizers, and other essential onboard systems. The conversation highlights why the future of American boatbuilding remains bright, driven by skilled craftspeople, strong partnerships, and a passion for excellence.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Filmed at the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Aaron Sutten of West Marine Pro to explore the supply chain, logistics, and commercial services that help keep boat builders, repair shops, and marine technicians working without costly delays. Aaron explains how West Marine Pro supports marine professionals with specialized pricing, nationwide inventory access, delivery solutions, and digital tools designed for the demands of the industry. They also discuss the tournament's mission to support boatbuilding families through scholarships while celebrating North Carolina's rich boatbuilding heritage. Finally, they examine the future of American boatbuilding, the growing need for skilled tradespeople, and why investing in the next generation is critical to the industry's success.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Behind every reliable vessel is a supply chain built on experience, relationships, and people who know what it takes to keep boats moving. In this special standalone episode of The Wards Way Podcast, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with longtime Wards Marine Electric teammate Willie Soles to explore his journey with the company since 1999 and the evolution of marine electrical supply in a rapidly changing industry. From warehouse expansion and global sourcing challenges to connected boat systems, inventory decisions, and the future of parts distribution, Willie shares the behind-the-scenes expertise required to support today’s builders, technicians, and boat owners. This employee spotlight highlights the people, processes, and commitment to service that have helped Wards Marine Electric power the marine industry for more than 75 years.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Milan Sangulin, director of the Biograd Boat Show, to explore how a small Croatian town of just 5,000 residents became home to one of Europe’s most successful international boat shows and a major gateway to the world’s yacht charter industry. Milan shares the show’s remarkable growth from a modest open house in 1999 to a record-setting event that has thrived through economic downturns and the pandemic by prioritizing exhibitor partnerships, simple logistics, and meaningful networking opportunities. Kristina and Milan also discuss the unique atmosphere that blends business with a festival-like experience, where Croatia’s renowned hospitality and vibrant nightlife become an extension of the show itself, fostering lasting relationships long after the exhibition halls close. They conclude with a look at the future of marine events, including expanded B2B opportunities, enhanced meeting programs, and technology designed to connect exhibitors and attendees more effectively year-round.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Anne Dunbar, Executive Director of IBEX, and Mary Vallen, Show Director, to explore why the International BoatBuilders Exhibition and Conference has become one of the marine industry’s most important B2B events. They discuss how IBEX brings together more than 700 exhibitors, technical education, and industry experts to address real-world challenges in boatbuilding, manufacturing, certification, and emerging technologies. Kristina, Anne, and Mary examine how AI, robotics, and connected systems are beginning to reshape marine design, production, and onboard experiences, while helping industry professionals separate practical innovation from hype. The conversation also highlights the broader issues affecting boating’s future, including water access, environmental stewardship, and the industry’s role in supporting smart, sustainable regulations.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75