Legends of the Brand

Phil Gordon
Legends of the Brand

A look at the people behind the brands; the characters, stories and insights that combine to make up the personality of many of the brands we know.

  1. 25 Years of Networking on The Slopes: Celebrating a City Ski Milestone - Amin Momen

    19 FEB

    25 Years of Networking on The Slopes: Celebrating a City Ski Milestone - Amin Momen

    Legends of the Brand welcomes Amin Momen from Momentum to discuss the 25th anniversary of the City Ski Challenge. Momentum, initially founded as Momentum Travel in 1996 as a bespoke travel agency, evolved to focus on mountain experiences and is now known as Momentum Experiences.  The City Ski Challenge, started in 2000, was created to bring the London business and financial community together in the Alps for networking and skiing. The City Ski Challenge is more than just a race; it's a blend of networking, business opportunities, and entertainment. The event typically begins on Thursday and concludes on Sunday, offering a variety of activities. Over the years, the event has grown to include comedy shows, panel discussions, and music, creating a festival-like atmosphere. This year features Frank Gardner from the BBC, hosting a current affairs quiz.  This year Momentum has partnered with Howden and Snow+Rock, as well as Crans Montana. Plus the event also supports charities, providing them with visibility and networking opportunities and this year, working with GB Snow Sport to raise awareness and support for their athletes. We encourage everyone participate in the City Ski Challenge, regardless of their skill level, and to enjoy the spirit of competition. The event is best described as the "best ski weekend in the Alps" and a "brilliant fun" networking opportunity. The Momentum City Ski Challenge takes place March 14th to 16th in Crane Montana 2025 Find our more: https://momentumxp.co.uk/get-inspired/city-ski-championships/

    42 min
  2. Ditching the Ordinary: Marcus Blunt’s Mission to Transform Ski Travel - Part 2

    15 JAN

    Ditching the Ordinary: Marcus Blunt’s Mission to Transform Ski Travel - Part 2

    In Part 2 of this Legends of the Brand episode, we dive deeper into the inner workings of Heidi and the personal journey of its founder, Marcus Blunt. Marcus provides insights into the evolving landscape of the ski holiday market, noting the impact of Brexit on traditional chalet holidays and the rise of self-catered options like apart-hotels. He also discusses the shift toward last-minute bookings, driven by factors like unpredictable snow conditions and increased flight availability A key focus of the conversation is Heidi's aggressive yet targeted marketing strategy, which leverages digital platforms to reach passionate skiers while maximizing return on investment. Marcus explains how this approach stems from his data-driven mindset and the niche nature of the ski holiday market. Maintaining authenticity during rapid growth is a challenge Marcus acknowledges head-on. He emphasizes the importance of clearly defined values, strong company culture, and a rigorous recruitment process to ensure new team members align with Heidi's ethos. To illustrate Heidi's commitment to customer experience, Marcus shares a heartwarming story of a first-time skier who, despite enduring a holiday riddled with mishaps, ultimately found joy in disconnecting from technology and connecting with his family on the slopes.  This anecdote underscores Heidi's belief in the transformative power of mountain experiences. Rounding off the interview are the signature Legends of the Brand "three questions," where Marcus distills Heidi's essence his, legacy and his choice of who a legend is.

    34 min
  3. Ditching the Ordinary: Marcus Blunt’s Mission to Transform Ski Travel- Part 1

    8 JAN

    Ditching the Ordinary: Marcus Blunt’s Mission to Transform Ski Travel- Part 1

    This episode of Legends of the Brand features Marcus Blunt, founder of the ski holiday company Heidi. Marcus shares his unique journey from a childhood filled with international moves, thanks to his diplomat father, to his passion for skiing that bloomed in unlikely places like Australia and Scotland. He speaks candidly about how his early career detours, including stints at British Airways and other travel companies, ultimately led him to identify a gap in the ski holiday market. Driven by a desire to simplify the often complex process of booking customized ski trips, Marcus, along with his brother, co-founded Heidi. He delves into Heidi's innovative approach, which blends the convenience of package holidays with the flexibility of DIY planning. He emphasizes the company's commitment to providing a human touch, with expert advice and support available throughout the booking and travel experience, recognizing the unique challenges and anxieties that can arise during ski holidays, especially for families and first-time skiers. But what sparked this entrepreneurial leap? What makes Heidi different from traditional ski holiday companies? And how does Marcus's own diverse skiing background, from small slopes to mega-resorts, influence Heidi's destination choices? Tune in to discover the answers and gain insights into the evolving world of ski holidays. Find our more visit www.Heidi.com

    39 min
  4. A Vision for GB Snowsports with Vicky Gosling OBE

    20/12/2024

    A Vision for GB Snowsports with Vicky Gosling OBE

    In this episode of Legends of the Brand, we dive into the world of elite snowsports leadership with Vicky Gosling OBE, Chief Executive of GB Snowsports. Vicky shares her fascinating journey, from growing up in the Wirral to her time in the Royal Air Force, where her experiences included deployments worldwide, and culminated in her role as Group Captain. Her transition from the military to leading transformative projects like the Invictus Games highlights her ability to channel a sense of purpose into creating meaningful change. Vicky’s insights into the parallels between military mission command and high-performance sports leadership set the stage for a compelling discussion. As GB Snowsports’ leader, Vicky discusses the organization’s bold goal of becoming a top-five snowsports nation by 2030. She highlights their impressive results, including podium finishes across all 12 disciplines and three reigning World Champions. Vicky emphasizes the importance of innovation, collaboration with world-class coaches, and empowering athletes to perform in high-risk environments. Her passion for expanding access and raising the profile of British snowsports shines through as she describes the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a sport not traditionally associated with the UK. The conversation delves into the rich history and purpose of the Invictus Games, which Vicky helped to launch alongside Prince Harry. She recounts inspiring personal stories of athletes whose lives were transformed by the power of sport, showcasing its role in recovery and rehabilitation. From the UK to international stages, Invictus has not only created a platform for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women but also fostered a legacy of resilience and achievement. Vicky also reflects on GB Snowsports' inclusive ethos and efforts to broaden participation across diverse backgrounds, from grassroots to elite levels. She shares the importance of leveraging local facilities, increasing accessibility, and fostering talent through innovative programs like the Alpine Foundation. Her perspective on the interplay between grassroots participation and high-performance success underscores the organization’s holistic approach to growth. In closing, Vicky discusses the upcoming Winter Olympics in Cortina, which GB Snowsports has dubbed their "home Olympics" due to its proximity and familiarity. She shares her hopes for continued success and describes the unifying spirit within her team. Whether you're passionate about sports, leadership, or personal growth, this episode offers inspiration and a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic world of GB Snowsports. Find our more about GB Snowsport by following: IG @gbsnowsport www.gbsnowsport.com Invictus Games: IG @weareinvictusgames www.invictusgamesfoundation.org

    55 min
  5. Molly Butler: Racing Toward the Summit – The Journey of a British Alpine Skier - Part 2

    16/10/2024

    Molly Butler: Racing Toward the Summit – The Journey of a British Alpine Skier - Part 2

    In this second part of our conversation with Molly Butler, we dive deeper into the life of this remarkable athlete and artist.  Molly shares how her creative passion for painting and design has helps her decompress from the pressures of skiing, but is still a vital part of her journey as an elite skier.  With the high costs of training and competing, Molly’s artwork, which includes mountain-inspired prints and cards, provides crucial financial support for her skiing career. She explains how selling her art can help maintain her focus on the slopes, all while sharing a piece of her creativity with others. In this episode, Molly also opens up about the figures who inspire her, both in sports and life. Whether it’s strong women in the skiing world or individuals who have supported her along the way while she continues to strive for excellence.  So as the holiday season approaches; Molly's artwork offers a special opportunity for supporters to connect with her story. From Christmas cards to unique prints, her pieces not only make beautiful gifts, but also help fund her journey to represent Great Britain in alpine skiing. We invite listeners to check out her shop and be part of her remarkable journey. ⁠To support Molly and Find her art work visit: www.Mollybutler.co.uk⁠ Follow her journey: Instagram @mollyskigirl  LinkedIn  ⁠www.linkedin.com/in/molly-butler-138138269⁠ Many thanks for the continued support of: Oakley helmets, goggles and sunglasses    @oakleyski ⁠www.oakley.com⁠  Dynastar skis   @dynastarskis ⁠www.dynastar-lange.com⁠  Lange boots  @lange_boots ⁠www.dynastar-lange.com⁠  Vola poles and shin guards  @volaracing_sports ⁠www.vola.fr⁠ Fusalp ski gear  @fusalp  ⁠www.fusalp.com⁠  GB Snowsports  @gbsnowsports   ⁠www.gbsnowsport.com⁠  Ladies Ski Club  @ladiesskiclub   ⁠www.ladiesskiclub.org⁠  Vix protection  @vixprotection ⁠www.vixprotection.com

    27 min
  6. Molly Butler: Racing Toward the Summit – The Journey of a British Alpine Skier - Part 1

    09/10/2024

    Molly Butler: Racing Toward the Summit – The Journey of a British Alpine Skier - Part 1

    Such a pleasure to have the opportunity to speak with Molly Butler on the podcast especially as we ramp up to the winter season and her schedule gets full. Molly, is a rising star in British alpine skiing, recently promoted to the Europa Cup squad for the 2024/25 season. Known for her determination and skill on the slopes, she competes in various disciplines, excelling in slalom and giant slalom events. Molly represented Team GB at the European Youth Olympics and continues to push boundaries in the competitive world of alpine racing. Despite the financial challenges of pursuing elite-level skiing, Molly’s passion and perseverance drive her forward, supported in part by her creative endeavors. Alongside her ski racing career, Molly is a talented artist, using her artwork to help fund her training and racing. From mountain-inspired prints to practical gifts, her art reflects her love for the outdoors and helps her bridge the financial gap many young athletes face. Molly really does embody the spirit of someone who blends creativity and athleticism, making her journey one to watch. Listen as we discuss her story in this, part 1 of our two part conversation. To support Molly and Find her art work visit: www.Mollybutler.co.uk Follow her journey: Instagram @mollyskigirl LinkedIn      www.linkedin.com/in/molly-butler-138138269 collaborators: Oakley helmets, goggles and sunglasses    @oakleyski www.oakley.com Dynastar skis   @dynastarskis www.dynastar-lange.com Lange boots @lange_boots www.dynastar-lange.com Vola poles and shin guards @volaracing_sports www.vola.fr Fusalp ski gear @fusalp  www.fusalp.com GB Snowsports @gbsnowsports   www.gbsnowsport.com Ladies Ski Club @ladiesskiclub   www.ladiesskiclub.org Vix protection @vixprotection www.vixprotection.com

    22 min
  7. THE PSIC - Professional Ski Instructors of Canada: Jeff Marks & Perry Schmunk - Part 2

    02/10/2024

    THE PSIC - Professional Ski Instructors of Canada: Jeff Marks & Perry Schmunk - Part 2

    If you are a snowsport professional, a ski instructor - or someone looking to get involved in this path; you should have a listen. In this, Part 2 of our conversation with Jeff Marks and Perry Schmunk from the PSIC we go deeper to learn about the this new organisation and the Method - which is the holistic foundation of the principles of how they teach. As always, we ask our guests about the legacy they want to leave and who they think is a legend. Join us on all great podcast providers and if you want to know more: https://www.psic.pro @psic.pro https://www.facebook.com/psic.proski

    50 min
  8. THE PSIC - Professional Ski Instructors of Canada: Jeff Marks & Perry Schmunk - Part 1

    25/09/2024

    THE PSIC - Professional Ski Instructors of Canada: Jeff Marks & Perry Schmunk - Part 1

    We start Season 5 with not 1 but 2 guests on the podcast. Jeff Marks and Perry Schmunk from the PSIC, a new ski school organisation slide on to the Podcast and share with us about the first year of this organisation. Jeff an Perry go into the ethos of the PSIC and share with us about the way they approach things which is called The Method, a holistic approach to the development of the skier & ski professional. If you are a snowsport professional, or ski instructor - or someone looking to get involved in this path; you should have a listen to learn more. Want to know more: https://www.psic.pro @psic.pro https://www.facebook.com/psic.proski

    56 min
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    4.8
    out of 5
    21 Ratings

    About

    A look at the people behind the brands; the characters, stories and insights that combine to make up the personality of many of the brands we know.

    Information

    • Creator
      Phil Gordon
    • Years Active
      2020 - 2025
    • Episodes
      108
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Phil Gordon
    • Show Website
      Legends of the Brand

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