How can a niche hunting innovation like saddle hunting transform an industry? Join host Nic De Castro as he sits down with Dan Chumbler, CEO of Tethrd, to explore the rise of ultralight saddle hunting gear and its impact on the outdoor industry. From Dan’s journey through iconic passion-driven brands like Louisville Slugger, Callaway, Polaris, and MeatEater to leading Tethrd’s mission to make hunting more mobile and accessible, this episode uncovers the strategies behind scaling a gear-focused company in a dynamic market. Discover how Tethrd is navigating post-tariff challenges, leveraging content to engage new hunters, and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the hunting space. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and business leaders interested in innovation and growth in passion-driven industries.

What You Will Learn

• How saddle hunting is revolutionizing the way hunters approach the field with mobility and safety.
• Strategies for aligning diverse stakeholders to drive business success in a passion-driven industry.
• The impact of tariffs on gear manufacturing and how companies like Tethrd are adapting.
• Insights into the evolving hunting market and opportunities for growth over the next five years.

Key Topics Discussed

• The evolution of saddle hunting and why it’s become a game-changer for hunters.
• Dan Chumbler’s career path through passion verticals and lessons learned from scaling MeatEater.
• The challenges and opportunities of transitioning from a media-driven brand to a gear-focused company.
• How tariffs are reshaping supply chains and pricing strategies in the outdoor industry.
• The potential for a unified platform to enhance the hunting experience, from gear to trip planning.
• The role of content in engaging new hunters and building a passionate community.

Show Resources and Links

• Tethrd Website: ⁠Tethrd.com⁠
• Tethrd Nation YouTube Channel: ⁠YouTube.com/@TethrdNation⁠
• LandTrust Website: ⁠LandTrust.com⁠
• LandTrust Field Notes: ⁠LandTrust.com/field-notes⁠
• Follow Dan Chumbler on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/dan-chumbler⁠
• LandTrust Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/LandTrust_Hunt⁠
• Listen to the LandTrust Podcast on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, or ⁠YouTube⁠

Notable Quotes

• “Saddle hunting is lighter, more mobile, safer, and just more versatile.” – Dan Chumbler
• “Hunting is stable and healthy… there are a heck of a lot more non-hunters than hunters, and all we need is for them to be advocates and supporters.” – Dan Chumbler
• “If you make it enjoyable, you make it fun where people want to do it, and in hunting, they need to find success.” – Dan Chumbler
• “The companies that get built and can survive through these things… those are the companies that often do very, very well.” – Nic De Castro

Conclusion In this episode, Dan Chumbler shares a wealth of insights from his extensive career in passion-driven industries, offering a deep dive into how Tethrd is innovating in the hunting space with saddle hunting gear. From navigating tariffs to leveraging content for growth, Dan’s perspective highlights the resilience and opportunity in the outdoor industry. Whether you’re a hunter eager to explore saddle hunting or a business leader curious about scaling a niche brand, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways. Tune in to learn how passion, innovation, and strategic alignment can drive success in the ever-evolving world of hunting.