Issue No. 55: Nature of Ex…Inclusion👩🏾‍🤝‍👨🏽

Oct 3

Hey, Outsiders! Issue No. 55 of Outsider Insider, delivered straight to your inbox, just the way you like it.

In this issue we're setting our compass towards a topic that's crucial for the outdoors community and nature lovers alike—the ongoing quest for inclusivity in the great outdoors. We peel back the layers on a topic that's long been overshadowed. From the nature of exclusion to the remarkable steps towards change, we're exploring how the outdoors is transforming into a space where everyone, regardless of their background, can find solace, adventure, and a connection to the world around them.

Also in this issue, we cover $70m e-boats, king crabs being sent to Florida’s coral reefs, and the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv.

Let’s go! 👩🏾‍🤝‍👨🏽

— Scott Crowder

📢 If you are enjoying how Outsider Insider expands your 🧠 with each issue, share it with someone who you think needs a bigger brain. Wait - that could be taken the wrong way. You know what I mean - spread the word! Join us on LinkedIn.

The Great Outdoors Grapples with Inclusivity 🌿

🌍 The Nature of Exclusion: When we think of the outdoors, we often picture pristine landscapes, rugged adventures, and a sense of freedom. But for many, the great outdoors hasn't been so welcoming. As highlighted in a recent Vox article, nature's beauty often comes with a not-so-scenic problem: cost & exclusion. Hiking trails, campsites, and national parks have long been seen as places primarily for one demographic, leaving others feeling like they don't quite belong.

⛰️ Steps Towards Change: But here's the twist—change is on the horizon, and it's coming from unexpected places. The University of Denver, for instance, is tackling this issue head-on with its Outdoor Peer Mentor program. This initiative is all about making the outdoors more inclusive by empowering diverse voices to lead the way into the wild. It's not just about creating more diversity; it's about ensuring that people from all backgrounds feel comfortable and encouraged to explore the natural world.

🌿 Together Outdoors - Black Folks Camp Too: The online world is also joining the movement. Enter Together Outdoors, a digital platform that's forging connections and building a sense of belonging among outdoor enthusiasts from various backgrounds. Then there's Black Folks Camp Too, a movement that's breaking stereotypes and proving that the love for camping knows no color. They're fostering a community that says, "The outdoors are for everyone," and they're doing it in style.

🌈 A Brighter, More Inclusive Future: The great outdoors should be a place where people from all walks of life can find solace, adventure, and a connection to the world around them. It's heartening to see these initiatives paving the way for a more diverse, inclusive, and welcoming outdoors. After all, nature is for everyone, and together, we can ensure it stays that way.

Business, Industry, & Economy:

🚤 Arc's Electric Voyage: Electric boat startup Arc is making waves in the watersports industry with a fresh injection of $70 million in funding, as reported by TechCrunch. Dive into the details to learn how this innovative company is electrifying the boating world, promising a sustainable and exciting future on the water.
🚲 Bike Boom Hits a Bump: The bike boom that gripped America seems to be slowing down, according to a report on Streetsblog. Explore the factors behind this shift and what it means for the future of cycling as a sustainable transportation option in the United States.
📋 Sporting Goods Industry Insights: Calling all sporting goods enthusiasts! The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) and McKinsey & Company are teaming up to gather critical insights for their upcoming fourth Sporting Goods Industry Report, set to be unveiled in early 2024.
💰 Salt Life’s Unsolicited Offer: Yahoo Finance has the scoop on Delta Apparel receiving an unsolicited offer to purchase its Salt Life business. Dive into the details to uncover what's at stake in this unexpected development and how it could reshape the future of Delta Apparel and the apparel industry at large.
🏃‍♀️ Vuori, the Lululemon Challenger, Eyes IPO: Vuori, the SoftBank-backed athletic apparel brand, is reportedly gearing up for an IPO next year, according to Bloomberg. With ambitions to take on the Lululemon empire, this move signals their intent to make waves in the activewear market. Keep an eye out for what could be a game-changing IPO.
🕴️ SEC Charges Former Newell Brands CEO: In a legal twist, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has charged the former CEO of Newell Brands with misleading investors. Reuters has the full story on this high-stakes case, shedding light on the alleged actions that have drawn the SEC's attention and the potential implications for both the individual and the company.
👞 Birkenstock's Big IPO Plans: German footwear icon Birkenstock is stepping onto the U.S. IPO stage, with ambitions to raise a cool $1.58 billion. CNBC has the scoop on how this traditional sandal maker is venturing into the world of high finance and what it means for the future of the brand.
⛷️ Ski Slopes Galore: If you're a snow enthusiast, you'll want to check out Storm Skiing's latest data. They've got the lowdown on the 505 active ski areas in North America, providing a comprehensive overview of where you can hit the slopes and shred some powder this winter.
🏕️ Outside Festival Webinar: Outside, the champions of all things outdoors, are gearing up to bring you the ultimate experience: The Outside Festival, set to hit Colorado in June 2024. Outside Inc. is hosting an exciting webinar on October 12th, to give you the inside scoop. Head to their hub for all the details on this must-attend event, which promises to fuel your passion for the great outdoors.
💼 Company Perks That Wow: Entrepreneur spills the beans on some jaw-dropping company perks from industry giants like Citadel, Airbnb, Patagonia, and Adobe. Get ready to be amazed by the innovative benefits these companies offer to attract and retain top talent, from adventure-packed sabbaticals to generous parental leave policies.
💰 American Outdoor Brands' Buyback Blitz: American Outdoor Brands is making moves with a $10 million share repurchase program. Dive into the details on PR Newswire to understand what this strategic financial decision means for the company and its shareholders.
🏋️ Lululemon's Workforce Evolution: In the world of fitness and fashion, Lululemon is shaking things up. Footwear News reports on the brand's layoffs, affecting around 120 employees, as they pivot towards a new chapter post-Peloton deal. Discover how this shift is part of their evolving strategy in the dynamic fitness market.

SPONSORED BY OSPREY PACKS

🎒 Discover Osprey Packs - Unpack Adventure! 🌄

Are you ready to embark on your next great outdoor adventure? Look no further than Osprey Packs! 🌿

🌟 Packing Purpose: Osprey isn't just about bags; it's about making a positive impact. They've proudly donated $10,000 to Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, a science-based policy and advocacy non-profit, in support of a healthier, happier world.

🏳️‍🌈 Inclusivity Matters: Osprey celebrates diversity with its Pride and Extended Fit product lines. They're all about ensuring that everyone feels welcome in the great outdoors. 🏕️

Explore their top-notch gear and gear up for your next adventure at Osprey Packs. Your journey begins here! 🌄🎒

Sustainability, Conservation, & Environment:

🌊 Florida's Coral Reefs & King Crabs: In an effort to restore Florida's ailing coral reefs, scientists are considering an unconventional solution - Caribbean king crabs! Dive into this Vox article to explore how these crabs could become unlikely allies in the fight to revive fragile marine ecosystems.
🌳 Bill Gates vs. Tree Enthusiast: Bill Gates stirred the environmental pot by voicing skepticism about the effectiveness of planting trees as a climate solution. Now, former Reddit CEO Yishan Wong takes the stage in this Fast Company piece to challenge Gates' stance and shed light on the tree-focused Terraformation project.
🤠 Billionaire Cowboys Selling Ranches: Iconic American ranches held by aging billionaire cowboys are hitting the market. Forbes' Jim Dobson offers a glimpse into this fascinating trend, where slices of American history are up for grabs, often with breathtaking landscapes and storied legacies.
🐻 Grizzly News: Conservation enthusiasts, rejoice! The North Cascades Grizzly Plan, is more than just a lifeline for these majestic creatures. It's a blueprint for the restoration of a threatened ecosystem. Dive into the details to grasp how this comprehensive plan addresses not only grizzlies but also the broader environmental challenges in the North Cascades region, giving hope for a harmonious future between humans and nature.
🌍 Nature's Marvels - Earthworm Edition: Earthworms might just be the unsung heroes of agriculture! A recent study on Nature.com reveals that these wriggly critters play a pivotal role in supporting plant growth and, in turn, global food production. By analyzing earthworm abundance, soil conditions, and crop yields, researchers estimate that these underground engineers contribute a whopping 6.5% to the production of staple grains (think maize, rice, wheat, barley) and 2.3% to legume production, totaling more than 140 million metric tons annually.
🚰 Matt Damon's Clean Water Venture Expands: Forbes reports on actor Matt Damon's efforts to scale up his clean water venture with a $200 million climate infrastructure plan. Damon's commitment to addressing clean water issues highlights the importance of celebrities using their influence for environmental and social causes.
🐻 "Fat & Fit" in Katmai National Park: ABC News covers Alaska's Katmai National Park and its annual "Fat Bear Week," celebrating the park's well-fed brown bears as they prepare for winter hibernation. This lighthearted yet informative event sheds light on the beauty of wildlife conservation and the natural wonders of our national parks.
🌿 Amazon's Climate Pledge: Amazon outlines its "Climate Pledge" in a news release, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and addressing climate change. The article underscores the significance of corporate responsibility and the role of major companies in driving environmental initiatives.

Health, Wellness, & Fitness:

🌿 The Norwegian Secret: Friluftsliv boosts health and happiness. The Guardian explores the Norwegian concept of "friluftsliv," which emphasizes the benefits of spending time outdoors in nature. This article delves into how embracing friluftsliv can enhance overall well-being and happiness, shedding light on the positive impacts of outdoor experiences on mental and physical health.

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

🚴‍♀️ Marley Blonsky's Manatee Cycling Club: Marley Blonsky, known for her advocacy work in inclusive cycling, launches the Manatee Cycling Club, aiming to create a more welcoming and diverse cycling community. This initiative represents a step forward in breaking down barriers and promoting equitable access to outdoor activities.
❄️ Girls' Official Ski Film Trailer: GearJunkie presents an official ski film trailer that offers advice for girls in the world of winter sports. By highlighting female athletes and encouraging participation, it contributes to making traditionally male-dominated sports more inclusive and inspiring.

Government, Grants, & Policy:

🌆 Biden's Climate Resilience Plan: President Biden's climate resilience plan aims to create a national framework for addressing the impacts of climate change on cities. This initiative, as detailed in the article, highlights the importance of urban sustainability and resilience as cities grapple with the growing challenges of climate change, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and policy support.
🚴‍♂️ Building a Bike-Friendly City: Smart City Dives discusses the steps and strategies needed to transform a city into a bike-friendly haven. As cities worldwide embrace cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation, the piece provides valuable insights into the infrastructure, policies, and community engagement required to create safer and more accessible urban environments for cyclists.
🌲 Mammoth Cave's Revitalized Trail: Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky unveils a revitalized trail, made possible by the Great American Outdoors Act. This development showcases the positive impacts of government support for outdoor projects, as it enhances visitor experiences and preserves natural areas for future generations. It serves as a testament to the importance of conservation and investment in our national parks.

Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality:

📸 Influencer Invasion in US Town: In the picturesque town of Vermont, the influx of influencers seeking the perfect Instagram shot has led to a backlash from locals. Frustrated by disruptions, damage to natural areas, and a focus on aesthetics over genuine experiences, the town is urging influencers to respect their community and the environment. This story underscores the growing tension between social media-driven tourism and the need for responsible and sustainable travel practices.

Products, Gear, & Gadgets:

🧥 Stio's Fresh Fall/Winter Line: Stio's Fall/Winter 2023-24 collection isn't just about fashion; it's a commitment to sustainability and performance. With eco-friendly materials and innovative designs, outdoor enthusiasts can expect gear that not only looks good but also treads lightly on the environment. Stio continues to set the bar high for outdoor apparel.
❄️ YETI's Genius Move: YETI's foray into documentary grants is a strategic move that aligns the brand with a broader storytelling narrative. By supporting filmmakers who share their passion for the outdoors, YETI not only deepens its connection with its audience but also champions the preservation of wild places, reflecting its core values beyond coolers and drinkware.
🚵 REI's Electric Ride: REI's entry into the electric mountain bike market is a testament to the growing popularity of e-bikes in outdoor recreation. It's a smart move, offering customers more options for sustainable adventure while expanding REI's product range. This launch highlights REI's commitment to staying at the forefront of outdoor gear trends.
🏞️ Baratunde Thurston Explores Utah: Baratunde Thurston's "America Outdoors" episode in Utah is more than just stunning landscapes; it's a celebration of the diverse beauty and cultural significance of outdoor spaces. As outdoor representation grows in media, this episode exemplifies how the outdoors can be a unifying force that brings people of all backgrounds together to appreciate nature's wonders.

If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe here.

PHC Commissioner