On this episode of the LandTrust Podcast, host Nic De Castro sits down with David Lord, Founder & CEO of Guidesly, to explore how technology and AI automation are transforming the outdoor guiding industry.
With three decades of experience leading tech startups, including pioneering e-commerce, online ticketing, and gaming, David shares how he’s combining innovation and passion for fly fishing to help guides grow their business, streamline bookings, and rank higher in local search.
What You’ll Learn 🎣
- How AI tools like JackAI and JackBot automate marketing, content, and client communication
- Proven ways to increase guide bookings and win in local SEO
- The mindset behind building “no-touch” software that runs itself
- How to scale your outdoor business without sacrificing authenticity
- Why RecTech (recreation technology) is the next frontier in the outdoor economy
- Leadership lessons on legacy, culture, and turning passion into purpose
Chapters 🕒
00:00 – Welcome to the Outsides Insiders Series
01:10 – From ToySmart to Disney: David Lord’s entrepreneurial journey
06:45 – Launching Guidesly and the challenges outdoor guides face
09:00 – Using AI to boost marketing, photos, and trip management
15:40 – Voice bots, chat tools, and new ways to connect with customers
20:30 – Building trust, visibility, and engagement through automation
27:00 – Leadership, family, and building a lasting legacy
33:00 – The rise of RecTech and what’s next for the outdoor industry
Follow Guidesly & LandTrust 🔗
Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/guidesly/⁠
Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/guidesly/
LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/guidesly/
Site: https://guidesly.com/
Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/landtrust_hunt⁠
Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/landtrusthunt/⁠
LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/landtrustinc⁠
Site: ⁠https://landtrust.com/