Today’s reader question:
You mentioned not liking the ‘business of snowboarding’ and the ugly things that happen behind the scenes with sponsored riders… can you give an example of what you mean?
Well basically I was referring to all the drama and nonsense that happens behind the scenes for the sake of making money in snowboarding. Many things are done for the sake of increasing profits without caring about the well being of sponsored riders and the long term impact on our sport.
I’ll avoid going in-depth or naming names because honestly that stuff just annoys me and I want nothing to do with any of it.
You did ask for an example, so I’ll give you one.
I have a friend who was sponsored pro with a small upstart snowboard company. At the time he was the more well known name and no one knew about the company. He was basically responsible for helping get them into the mainstream eye.
He stuck with them and helped grow their brand even when he could have gotten more money from other companies. However, as soon as the company got a little success they kicked him to the curb with no warning.
That’s just one example of the ugliness and it’s honestly pretty tame compared to many other things that go on behind the scenes.
Don’t get me wrong…
Now please don’t assume I hate snowboard companies that try to make money. I’m a capitalist and I’m 100% behind snowboard companies making tons of money. I don’t see anything wrong with making money from snowboarding.
However, I do believe there’s an ethical way to do business and often that line gets crossed for the sake of a few dollars. I don’t like all the short sighted decisions that screw people over and cut corners just to get a short term increase in profits.
So yeah… I hope that answers your question. As I said, I didn’t go too in-depth because hoenstly thinking about most of the ‘industry’ stuff gives me a headache, so I do my best to avoid most of it.
I’m happy keeping that industry drama and nonsense as far away from me as possible.
- Jed
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