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Shows

From Party Buses to Party Boats: An Entrepreneur's Evolution Ft. Nikki DuBois - Episode #214
214
June 12, 2026

From Party Buses to Party Boats: An Entrepreneur's Evolution Ft. Nikki DuBois - Episode #214

In this episode, the guys sit down with Nikki DuBois, founder of Boomerang Boat Tours in Washington, DC. She shares her remarkable journey from high school teacher to owner of a thriving multi vessel charter operation. Nikki discusses how she identified market opportunities, evolved from party buses to party boats, and built a business that now operates successfully with remote ownership. The conversation dives into critical topics for watersport operators, including cashless operations, prevent...
Guest: Nikki DuBois
The Future of Tours & Watersports: Smaller Teams, Smarter AI, Bigger Opportunities - Episode #213
213
May 28, 2026

The Future of Tours & Watersports: Smaller Teams, Smarter AI, Bigger Opportunities - Episode #213

In this episode, the guys share stories from Kevin’s unforgettable trip to Japan. Then they take a deep dive into how AI is rapidly transforming the travel and tour industry. The conversation focuses on what watersport operators need to do right now to stay competitive, from tracking conversion rates and maximizing phone sales to adapting for AI driven search platforms like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The hosts explain why traditional SEO and paid ads are becoming less effective, how platforms li...
Breaking the Cycle: Addiction, Mental Health & Growth on the Water - Episode #212
212
April 30, 2026

Breaking the Cycle: Addiction, Mental Health & Growth on the Water - Episode #212

In this episode, the guys dive into the often overlooked realities of addiction and mental health in the watersports industry. They unpack how environment, personality, and daily habits can quietly limit both personal well being and business growth. The guys explore the difference between physical and psychological addiction, why industry culture can reinforce unhealthy patterns, and how many operators unknowingly hit a ceiling because of lifestyle choices rather than market conditions. They bre...
Smarter Boats, Fewer Headaches: The Telematics Takeover Ft. Kevin Walsh - Episode #211
211
April 23, 2026

Smarter Boats, Fewer Headaches: The Telematics Takeover Ft. Kevin Walsh - Episode #211

In this episode, the guys sit down with Kevin Walsh to break down how AI and telematics are quickly becoming must have tools for watersport operators looking to run tighter, safer, and more profitable fleets. The guys unpack how platforms like Boat Fix give you real time visibility into your boats tracking engine hours, usage patterns, battery health, and more so you can stay ahead of maintenance, reduce downtime, and make smarter operational decisions. They also dive into how this data is start...
Guest: Kevin Walsh
From the Rave to the Marina: Fresh Ideas for Water Sports Growth - Episode #210
210
April 16, 2026

From the Rave to the Marina: Fresh Ideas for Water Sports Growth - Episode #210

In this episode, the guys kick it off with stories from Miami, where rave culture, luxury waterfront lifestyles, and a chaotic but unforgettable bareboat charter experience spark bigger conversations about the future of the industry. What starts as a fun recap quickly turns into a masterclass for operators, as they unpack the massive opportunity in professionally managing privately owned boats as an asset light rental model, share why early investments in events like The Port can accelerate busi...
From OEMs to Rentals: The Fleet Model Manufacturers Missed Ft. Brian Mazanti - Episode #209
209
April 9, 2026

From OEMs to Rentals: The Fleet Model Manufacturers Missed Ft. Brian Mazanti - Episode #209

In this episode, the guys sit down with Brian Mazanti of KCBK Group, the podcast’s newest sponsor and a leading expert in the commercial marine space, for a deep dive into what it really takes to build a profitable rental fleet. From the explosive growth of the upcoming port event and the jet ski trailer parking competition giveaway, this episode is packed with opportunities for operators looking to level up. Brian breaks down how KCBK helps rental and boat club businesses source the right ponto...
Peer to Peer Power: How Boatsetter Is Scaling the Global Boat Rental Marketplace Ft. Michael Farb - Epsiode #208
208
March 12, 2026

Peer to Peer Power: How Boatsetter Is Scaling the Global Boat Rental Marketplace Ft. Michael Farb - Epsiode #208

In this episode, the guys sit down with Boatsetter CEO Michael Farb to break down how the peer to peer boat rental marketplace is transforming the boating and watersports industry. The conversation explores how platforms like Boatsetter and GetMyBoat are turning underutilized private boats into revenue generating assets while expanding access to boating for millions of new customers. Michael shares insights on the key innovations making this model work from usage based insurance and certified ca...
Guest: Michael Farb
Fraudulent Policies, Rising Premiums & How to Stay Covered Ft. Chris Murray - Episode #207
207
March 5, 2026

Fraudulent Policies, Rising Premiums & How to Stay Covered Ft. Chris Murray - Episode #207

In this episode, the guys sit down with insurance expert Chris Murray to break down what water sport operators actually need to know about commercial insurance from decoding complex policy language to avoiding fraudulent or inadequate coverage that can sink your business. Next they dive into why safety documentation, maintenance logs, and operational discipline directly impact your premiums, underwriting experience and how long term carrier relationships can stabilize rising costs. They also exp...
Guest: Chris Murray
Death by Regulation: The Slow Squeeze on Operators - Episode #206
206
Feb. 19, 2026

Death by Regulation: The Slow Squeeze on Operators - Episode #206

In this episode, the guys dive into how local regulations are tightening, license caps are expanding, and operators are feeling the squeeze. Then they break down the real world impact of Sarasota’s controversial medallion system and what it signals for boat rental and water sports businesses everywhere. From moratoriums and insurance requirements to political blind spots and media narratives. Next they talk candidly about why waiting it out isn’t a strategy. If you operate on public waterways, t...
AI on the Dock: Smarter Marketing & Reservations for Watersports Operators Ft. Evan Tipton and Ivy Duncan - Episode #205
205
Feb. 5, 2026

AI on the Dock: Smarter Marketing & Reservations for Watersports Operators Ft. Evan Tipton and Ivy Duncan - Episode #205

In this episode, the guys dive into how AI is quickly becoming a practical tool not a scary buzzword for water sports and tour operators looking to grow without burning out. Featuring Evan Tipton and Ivy Duncan from TOMIS and Yonder, the conversation breaks down how AI powered chatbots, voice assistants, and marketing automation can handle everyday customer questions, follow up with leads, and improve bookings while still keeping a human touch where it matters most. The guests share real world e...
Stop Playing Small Ball: Mindset Shifts for Scaling Watersport Operations - Episode #204
204
Jan. 28, 2026

Stop Playing Small Ball: Mindset Shifts for Scaling Watersport Operations - Episode #204

[SPONSORS] - This show is sponsored by Take My Boat Test and WaveRez. Show Links: Website: https://www.watersportpodcast.com Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/awgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1155418904790489 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awg_podcast/
Why Charter Fishing Isn’t Just About Fish Anymore Ft. Kyle Lowe & Cliff Atwell - Episode #203
203
Jan. 22, 2026

Why Charter Fishing Isn’t Just About Fish Anymore Ft. Kyle Lowe & Cliff Atwell - Episode #203

In this episode, the guys dive deep into the modern charter fishing business through candid conversations with Destin, Florida captains Kyle Lowe and Cliff Atwell, revealing how the industry has shifted from fish first trips to experience driven, family friendly entertainment. They will talk about real world insights on rising operational costs, market oversaturation, regulatory pressure, and the double edged sword of online booking platforms and social media marketing. Then the discussion unpac...
Experiment, Adapt, Repeat: Turning Watersports into an Experience Brand  Ft. Michael & Taylor Withrow  - Episode #202
202
Jan. 14, 2026

Experiment, Adapt, Repeat: Turning Watersports into an Experience Brand Ft. Michael & Taylor Withrow - Episode #202

This episode, they guys sit down with Michael and Taylor Withrow, owners of Island Head in Hilton Head, South Carolina. They unpack what it really takes to build and sustain a diversified, multi location watersports and experience business. From early legal challenges that forced a rebrand, to expanding beyond parasailing into ferries, charters, and unexpected wins like a Hibachi cruise, the conversation is packed with real world operator lessons. Both guests share honest insights on failed vent...
Scaling Smarter, Not Bigger: Hidden Profits Inside Your Existing Operation Ft. Zeb Smith - Episode #201
201
Jan. 1, 2026

Scaling Smarter, Not Bigger: Hidden Profits Inside Your Existing Operation Ft. Zeb Smith - Episode #201

In this episode, the guys dive deep into what it really takes to transform a watersport business from “getting by” to intentionally profitable. Kevin and Greg sit down with Zeb Smith from Zebulon LLC to unpack the powerful results of disciplined spend management, strategic pricing, and participation in peer groups like the Eddie. They share real numbers, lessons they learned through their careers, and the mindset shifts required to stop guessing and start leading with data. From uncovering six f...
Guest: Zeb Smith
Reflecting on The First 199 - Episode #200
200
Dec. 17, 2025

Reflecting on The First 199 - Episode #200

In this milestone 200th episode, the guys look back on the journey of building a niche show and community within the watersports industry. They share lessons they learned along the way and reflect on the power of authentic, unscripted conversations and the persistence required to push through slow early growth. Then they touch on how podcasting has fueled deeper relationships, smarter business thinking, and tangible opportunities like events and sponsorships. From hard earned insights around fin...
Sales, Sass and Saltwater: A Candid Chat with Zach Eischen - Episode #199
199
Nov. 26, 2025

Sales, Sass and Saltwater: A Candid Chat with Zach Eischen - Episode #199

In this episode, the guys sit down with WaveRez head of sales Zach Eischen for a candid, humorous, and insight packed deep dive into the realities of selling in the watersports industry. From navigating customer acquisition challenges to understanding key metrics like CAC and lifetime value, the guys break down what actually drives growth for operators today. Along the way, they share stories about industry relationships, the psychology behind sales decisions, and why transparency, adaptability,...
Guest: Zach Eischen
Port Recap 2025 - Episode #198
198
Nov. 6, 2025

Port Recap 2025 - Episode #198

In this episode, the guys mix a recap of The Port 2025 with business insights from a recent industry event. They reflect on key takeaways around community, networking, and the growing importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for operators looking to scale beyond self employment. You will hear candid thoughts on the difference between running a business versus just working in one, the role of in person relationships in an increasingly digital world, and the cautious optimism around AI’s...
Click Capture Connect: Turning Digital Attention Into Real World Sales Ft. Derek Michaloski - Episode #197
197
Oct. 30, 2025

Click Capture Connect: Turning Digital Attention Into Real World Sales Ft. Derek Michaloski - Episode #197

In this episode, the guys sit down with Derek Michaloski to explore the intersection of technology, and photo marketing in today’s digital age. The conversation dives into broader cultural shifts and what that means for how operators market real world experiences. Derek shares his journey from traditional film photography to digital systems, emphasizing the enduring power of tangible photos in creating emotional connections and boosting revenue. Next, they discuss strategies to integrate photo s...
Greg's New Book & Port Prep - Episode #196
196
Oct. 15, 2025

Greg's New Book & Port Prep - Episode #196

In this episode, the guys dive deep into the realities of running a modern water sports business blending humor, honesty, and hard won experience with sharp insights on technology, operations, and customer service. Then they preview upcoming industry events like The Port conference and unveiling Greg's book Boat Boss, the conversation balances entertainment with key takeaways. Then they explore the growing influence of vertical SaaS platforms, the smart integration of AI tools, and the crucial r...
Matching Your Audience To Your Marketing - Live From Arival - Episode #195
195
Oct. 2, 2025

Matching Your Audience To Your Marketing - Live From Arival - Episode #195

In this episode, the guys dive into a candid live session at Arival, joined by a live audience. The guys deliver sharp insights on hot topics for watersport operators, including dynamic pricing, conversion rate optimization, upselling strategies, and customer acquisition costs. They share real world examples of how small changes in booking funnels, social proof, and early bird promotions can significantly boost revenue while addressing the challenges of customer retention in a “once in a lifetim...
Stop Being Order Takers: Automation That Sells You Ft. Kyle Reed - Episode #194
194
Sept. 25, 2025

Stop Being Order Takers: Automation That Sells You Ft. Kyle Reed - Episode #194

In this episode, the guys sit down with Kyle Reed, founder of Stannect, a CRM and automation platform designed for industries like home services and watersports. Kyle shares his journey from launching Stannect as a side hustle during COVID to building a full scale CRM solution that helps operators move beyond being “order takers.” The conversation dives into the challenges watersport businesses face with lead management, customer communication, and sales conversion. They also discuss how automat...
Guest: Kyle Reed
The Four Ps of Outdoor Tourism: Passion, Permits, People and Profit Ft. Zeb Smith - Episode #193
193
Sept. 18, 2025

The Four Ps of Outdoor Tourism: Passion, Permits, People and Profit Ft. Zeb Smith - Episode #193

In this episode, the guys sit down with Zeb Smith of Zebulon Consulting to unpack the financial and operational challenges unique to watersport and outdoor operators. Zeb shares his journey from CPA to niche consultant, explaining how he helps outfitters move beyond gut instincts and passion to build data driven, profitable businesses. The conversation dives into the “Four Ps” of the industry: Passion, Permitting, People, and Profit. This highlights common pitfalls like seasonal workforce strugg...
Guest: Zeb Smith
Self Service on the Water: PADL's Game Changing Model Ft. Andres Avello - Episode #192
192
Sept. 10, 2025

Self Service on the Water: PADL's Game Changing Model Ft. Andres Avello - Episode #192

In this episode, the guys sit down with Andres Avello, Co-Founder of PADL, to explore how his company is transforming the paddleboard and kayak rental industry through a self service, app driven model. Andres shares his journey from growing up on the water in Miami to building one of the fastest growing rental networks in Florida, now operating at more than 40 locations. The conversation dives into the realities of Miami’s watersports scene, including fraud and unregulated jet ski operations, an...
Controlled Chaos: Inside the Rapidly Growing Electric Boat Market Ft. Erick Pinzon - Episode #191
191
Sept. 5, 2025

Controlled Chaos: Inside the Rapidly Growing Electric Boat Market Ft. Erick Pinzon - Episode #191

In this episode, the guys sit down with Eric Pinzon, founder of Electrified Marina, to dive into the realities and opportunities of the electric boat market. Eric shares his first hand experience navigating this emerging sector, from educating customers on safety misconceptions to tackling infrastructure and challenges. The conversation explores how location, marketing, and personal branding play critical roles in making electric boat operations successful. They also addressing the hurdles of se...
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